Rugby Journal Magazine Issue 16 Back Issue

Danny Care shares his journey from football with Jamie Vardy to his early meetings with Stuart Lancaster and Eddie Jones, while Bryony and Poppy Cleall reflect on their rugby paths, from prison life to finding their mojo. Bill Sweeney, head of English rugby, opens up about his passion for grassroots development and his determination to prove Steve Hansen wrong.
We dive into a 14-page special on Bristol Bears, featuring insights from Pat Lam, Amber Reed, Mark Tainton, Dave Ward, and Steven Luatua. Ayaz Bhuta, often called the ‘Jonah Lomu’ of wheelchair rugby, shares his inspiring journey in the game and Merthyr RFC’s rugby revolution, sparked by the TV series Skint, continues under the leadership of Pontypridd legend Dale McIntosh.
Old Elthamians, once close to the Championship, now remain on the sidelines as National One progresses, but their story continues. Spanish rugby’s potential to challenge at the elite level is explored, while Ivybridge RFC’s women’s side rises with the guidance of Georgie and Ben Gulliver. Zintle Mpupha talks about her journey from the South African townships to Exeter Chiefs, and Malakai Fekitoa discusses his decision to switch from the All Blacks’ black jersey to Tonga’s red.