9PL Podcast

Summary In this episode, we explore the growth of NxGen Rugby League, the strategies behind team building, and insights into the upcoming Sydney qualifier for the Nines Premier League. Guests Bayley Macbeth and Aaron Gray share their experiences, team dynamics, and what makes this competition exciting for players and fans alike. Key Topics Growth of NxGen Rugby League Team building and recruitment strategies Preparation for the Sydney qualifier Player development and talent spotting Game tactics and style of play in nines rugby Community and supporter engagement

Summary Identical twin brothers John and Maurice Kennedy, founders of KSquared SportStyle, explain how they built their coaching business and prepare a Northern Beaches-connected squad for the Wenty Leagues Sydney Qualifier. They reflect on their rugby league, union and touch backgrounds, share their defensive approach to nines, and discuss the community relationships helping bring the team together. Key Topics John and Maurice Kennedy founded KSquared in 2018 after leaving council work and studying for a diploma in sport development while balancing work and training. The twins grew up playing rugby league at Manly Cove Rebels, added rugby union around ages 11-12, and began playing touch at 14. A home-made YouTube highlights video unexpectedly became popular before viral clips were commonplace; the brothers recount how their distinctive K2 play was developed. KSquared's qualifier squad aims to represent the Northern Beaches, with roughly 25-30 players competing for a final 18 and younger trainees potentially gaining exposure. Their nines approach blends ideas from league, touch and sevens, with defense as a priority and systems adjusted to field position, ruck speed and situation. The brothers plan to use two defenders and one marker in some scenarios, and other structures in different parts of the field; decisions are tested collaboratively. They emphasize inclusive coaching, inviting player input to build team ownership and buy-in. The Kennedys are drawing on local businesses and community ties, including sponsors connected through their tipping competition and grassroots football. They study successful teams, including Campbelltown, but stress that tactics must match the personnel available.

Summary In this episode, we chat with the Bourke Warriors team about their back-to-back grand finals at the Koori Knockout, team building, strategies, and insights into knockout rugby league. Discover how they prepare, the importance of experience, and their plans for upcoming competitions. Key Topics Team building and community focus of Bourke Warriors Significance of knockout experience in rugby Strategies for success in knockout tournaments Impact of injuries and player management Plans for upcoming competitions and team development

Summary In this episode, we explore the development of the Wide Bay Renegades rugby league team, their journey through regional competitions, and the opportunities they create for local players to showcase their talent and progress to higher levels. Key Topics Development of the Wide Bay Renegades Opportunities for regional players in rugby league The importance of regional pathways to professional levels The role of community and sponsorship in sports development The impact of regional competitions on player confidence and skills The journey of players from local to national competitions The significance of exposure and experience for young athletes The challenges and successes of managing a regional team The influence of regional teams on local sports culture Future ambitions of the Wide Bay Renegades

Summary In this episode, we chat with the Titans of Coal about their journey, the excitement of the Nines Premier League, and insights into team dynamics and competition strategies. Key Topics The growth of Titans of Coal and their community impact Insights into team selection and strategy for the Nines Challenges of managing team fitness and injuries in fast-paced rugby The importance of community, mental health, and social responsibility in sports Comparing different rugby competitions and their level of play

Summary In this episode, Kalifa Fai Fai Loa and Jimmy Tamou discuss the development of rugby league talent in North Queensland, the significance of the inaugural Auckland Nines, and their plans for The North team in upcoming competitions. They share insights on team building, community impact, and the importance of reconnecting through sport. Key Topics Development of rugby league talent in North Queensland The significance of the Auckland Nines tournament Team building and recruitment strategies for the North team Community impact and reconnecting through sport Insights into coaching and player management in short-form competitions

Summary In this episode, we explore the journey of building a rugby league team from the Northern Territory, the importance of community representation, and the power of social media in sports promotion. Guests Willhem and Addo share insights on talent development, team building, and the challenges faced along the way. Key Topics Building a rugby league team from the Northern Territory The role of social media in promoting sports and talent Community representation and its importance in sports Challenges of logistics and travel for remote teams Talent development and showcasing local players The significance of local rivalries and community support Strategies for team cohesion and game tactics The journey of players from remote areas to professional levels

Summary In this episode, Lance and Joel share their journey from local footy in Mount Isa to competing in the Nines Premier League, highlighting community building, overcoming challenges, and their ambitions for future tournaments. Key Topics Community building in rugby league Journey from local footy to professional tournaments Challenges of organizing and funding community sports The importance of social media and sponsorships in sports growth Player development and showcasing local talent Highlights and memorable moments from recent tournaments Future ambitions for the Eyes of Warriors team The role of family and community support in sports success

Summary In this episode, EZ Squad founders Eddy Pettybourne & Zeb Taia share their journey from grassroots to community champions in the Nines Premier League. They discuss team building, community engagement, player recruitment, and the importance of fun and legacy in sport. Key Topics Team building and recruitment strategies Community engagement and social impact Player development and legacy in grassroots sports The role of fun and culture in team success Evolution of the Nines Premier League and community sports

Summary In this episode, Mitch Rein and Chris McQueen share their journey from the early days of the Nines to the current state of the tournament, highlighting the importance of professionalism, family, and community in rugby league. They discuss team dynamics, recruitment strategies, and the role of the RLPA in supporting players both on and off the field. Key Topics Evolution of the Nines tournament from 2023 to 2026 Importance of professionalism and preparation in rugby league Role of the RLPA in supporting current and past players Team recruitment strategies and challenges Community and family connection in rugby league Impact of broadcast deals and negotiations Player transition and life after footy Memorable moments and fossil awards

Summary In this episode, we chat with Cam Cullen & Owen Fredericks from the Image Property Raiders about their journey from rugby league to real estate, their team-building strategies for the upcoming nines competition, and how their sporting background influences their approach to business and team dynamics. Key Topics Transition from sports to real estate Team building and recruitment strategies The role of sports in business success Preparation and strategy for nines competition Regional team dynamics and collaboration

Summary In this episode, we explore the growth and development of the Gold Coast Giants in the Nines Premier League, discussing team building, community engagement, and the evolution of the competition. Key Topics Formation and community roots of the Gold Coast Giants Team building strategies and player recruitment Growth of the Nines Premier League and talent development Community engagement and local support for rugby league Injuries and player resilience in short-format rugby The role of sponsorships and behind-the-scenes support

Summary In this episode, we explore the journey of the Coastal Rays team as they qualify for the Gold Coast finals, sharing insights on team building, strategy, and the importance of community and culture in competitive sports. Key Topics Team building and recruitment strategies The importance of community and culture in sports Lessons learned from transitioning from qualifiers to finals The role of experience and exposure in player development Strategies for improving team performance and cohesion

Summary In this episode, we are joined by Francis Bennett to explore the journey of building his rugby league nines club the North Coast Marlins. He discusses the importance of community, and strategies for success in tournaments. The conversation covers team selection, preparation, and the value of exposure for young players. Key Topics Team selection and player criteria The importance of community support Preparation and training strategies Memorable moments from the tournament Lessons learned for future competitions

Summary In this episode, Yak shares his journey through recovery after a severe spinal cord injury, the importance of community support, and his passion for rugby league and his 9PL team the Dawgs! Tune in for a story of resilience, leadership, and the power of mental strength. Key Topics Yak's personal journey through severe spinal injury The role of community and family support in recovery The importance of mental resilience and attitude Highlights from Yak's rugby league career and team leadership The significance of culture and legacy in sports and life

Summary Kane Evans shares his journey from childhood rugby league to professional NRL, his experiences with teams like the Roosters and Reborn, and his exciting new venture with the Phoenix Nines team. This episode offers insights into resilience, team building, and the power of self-reinvention. Key Topics Kane Evans' early rugby experiences and childhood Transition from union to league and overcoming setbacks Memorable moments with the Roosters and Reborn teams The concept and vision behind the Phoenix Nines team Team recruitment, training, and community engagement strategies The importance of resilience, self-improvement, and mental health in sports Insights into rugby sevens and potential international recruitment The role of mentorship and support networks in athlete development Future plans for the Phoenix Nines and community impact Lessons on leadership, perseverance, and self-belief

Summary In this episode, we chat with Mitch Williams, a seasoned rugby league player and coach, about his journey, coaching philosophy, and plans for the new Southern Steelers team. Discover insights into team building, game tactics, and the importance of community in sports. Key Topics Mitch Williams' rugby career and milestones Coaching philosophy and team culture Building the Southern Steelers team Game tactics and strategy for rugby nines Community engagement and social media in sports

Summary In this episode, Josh White shares his journey from playing rugby league internationally to building the Southern Bulls, a new team in the Nines Premier League. Discover how passion, community, and strategic planning come together to create a successful team culture. Key Topics Josh White's rugby background and international experience The inspiration behind the Southern Bulls team Building team culture and values from scratch Strategic recruitment of players and community involvement The importance of social media and sponsorship in team success Long-term vision for the Southern Bulls and future goals

Summary In this episode, Brody Naden from United Sporting Club shares insights into the team's history, culture, and strategies for success in Nines rugby league. We explore team dynamics, player development, and the importance of community support in competitive rugby league. Key Topics Team culture and community impact Player development and recruitment strategies Lessons learned from recent tournaments Importance of structure and fitness in success Influence of star players and marquee talent Future plans and team building strategies

Summary In this episode, we chat with the Greater Southern Seahorses about their journey, team culture, and the evolution of nines rugby. They share insights on team building, tournament experiences, and future ambitions in the sport. Key Topics Team evolution and recruitment strategies Tournament experiences and key learnings Building team culture and values Insights into Nines rugby tactics and gameplay Future ambitions and pathway development