The Glorious Rugby Podcast

Episode Notes Perry Humphreys joins us for a few minutes to talk about the upcoming season, and AKP and Fitz preview OGDC's season opener against the Seattle Seawolves, and make their picks. About the hosts John Fitzpatrick Runs the Rugby Morning newsletter Hosts MLR Coffee Break on MLR Weekly (Rugby Wrap Up) Hosts USA Rugby Happy Hour on Twitter Spaces Twitter: @rugbymorning Alistair Kirsch-Poole Writer/editor for Glorious Rugby Runs Tackle the Numbers Twitter: @AlistairKP

Episode Notes Max Schumacher and Rick Rose join us to talk about moving to OGDC and what they hope to learn now that they're here. About the hosts John Fitzpatrick Runs the Rugby Morning newsletter Hosts MLR Coffee Break on MLR Weekly (Rugby Wrap Up) Hosts USA Rugby Happy Hour on Twitter Spaces Twitter: @rugbymorning Alistair Kirsch-Poole Writer/editor for Glorious Rugby Runs Tackle the Numbers Twitter: @AlistairKP

Episode Notes The season is so close that there's really not much more to talk about, so we take a tangent into trophies. About the hosts John Fitzpatrick Runs the Rugby Morning newsletter Hosts MLR Coffee Break on MLR Weekly (Rugby Wrap Up) Hosts USA Rugby Happy Hour on Twitter Spaces Twitter: @rugbymorning Alistair Kirsch-Poole Writer/editor for Glorious Rugby Runs Tackle the Numbers Twitter: @AlistairKP

Episode Notes The TMO system makes way for the newly announced Referee Review System, which is... different? Maybe? We dive into all the questions, answered and unanswered. About the hosts John Fitzpatrick Runs the Rugby Morning newsletter Hosts MLR Coffee Break on MLR Weekly (Rugby Wrap Up) Hosts USA Rugby Happy Hour on Twitter Spaces Twitter: @rugbymorning Alistair Kirsch-Poole Writer/editor for Glorious Rugby Runs Tackle the Numbers Twitter: @AlistairKP

Episode Notes We thought the roster was settled, but then Connor Buckley dropped out at the last minute. We talk about that situation and his replacement. About the hosts John Fitzpatrick Runs the Rugby Morning newsletter Hosts MLR Coffee Break on MLR Weekly (Rugby Wrap Up) Hosts USA Rugby Happy Hour on Twitter Spaces Twitter: @rugbymorning Alistair Kirsch-Poole Writer/editor for Glorious Rugby Runs Tackle the Numbers Twitter: @AlistairKP

Episode Notes Fumie Reyes talks to us about her journey from Hawaii to Singapore to England to DC, where she's now joined the Old Glory staff as a the skills coach. About the hosts John Fitzpatrick Runs the Rugby Morning newsletter Hosts MLR Coffee Break on MLR Weekly (Rugby Wrap Up) Hosts USA Rugby Happy Hour on Twitter Spaces Twitter: @rugbymorning Alistair Kirsch-Poole Writer/editor for Glorious Rugby Runs Tackle the Numbers Twitter: @AlistairKP

Episode Notes We interview MLR Players' Association head Chris Mattina about what went into negotiating the new collective bargaining agreement with the league, and what it will deliver for both owners and players. About the hosts John Fitzpatrick Runs the Rugby Morning newsletter Hosts MLR Coffee Break on MLR Weekly (Rugby Wrap Up) Hosts USA Rugby Happy Hour on Twitter Spaces Twitter: @rugbymorning Alistair Kirsch-Poole Writer/editor for Glorious Rugby Runs Tackle the Numbers Twitter: @AlistairKP

Episode Notes We talk about Jordan Jackson Hope, likely Old Glory's last big signing of the season, before musing about the upcoming collective bargaining agreement. About the hosts John Fitzpatrick Runs the Rugby Morning newsletter Hosts MLR Coffee Break on MLR Weekly (Rugby Wrap Up) Hosts USA Rugby Happy Hour on Twitter Spaces Twitter: @rugbymorning Alistair Kirsch-Poole Writer/editor for Glorious Rugby Runs Tackle the Numbers Twitter: @AlistairKP

Episode Notes We talked to OGDC's defense coach Stan South about what he's up to in the lead up to training camp, what he wants borrow from the tactics of international teams, and how Young Glory is impacting the landscape of rugby across the whole region. About the hosts John Fitzpatrick Runs the Rugby Morning newsletter Hosts MLR Coffee Break on MLR Weekly (Rugby Wrap Up) Hosts USA Rugby Happy Hour on Twitter Spaces Twitter: @rugbymorning Alistair Kirsch-Poole Writer/editor for Glorious Rugby Runs Tackle the Numbers Twitter: @AlistairKP

Episode Notes A key player on the team last year, Steff Hughes joins us to talk about his decision to transition to coaching and his plans for the team's attacking strategies. About the hosts John Fitzpatrick Runs the Rugby Morning newsletter Hosts MLR Coffee Break on MLR Weekly (Rugby Wrap Up) Hosts USA Rugby Happy Hour on Twitter Spaces Twitter: @rugbymorning Alistair Kirsch-Poole Writer/editor for Glorious Rugby Runs Tackle the Numbers Twitter: @AlistairKP

Episode Notes We talked with Old Glory's General Manager of Rugby Operations Richard Merryman about his role on the team, how the roster came together, how the new rules affected decision-making, and got him to spill the beans on the few remaining unannounced players. About the hosts John Fitzpatrick Runs the Rugby Morning newsletter Hosts MLR Coffee Break on MLR Weekly (Rugby Wrap Up) Hosts USA Rugby Happy Hour on Twitter Spaces Twitter: @rugbymorning Alistair Kirsch-Poole Writer/editor for Glorious Rugby Runs Tackle the Numbers Twitter: @AlistairKP

Episode Notes Only one new signing was announced since last week, even though big holes remain in the roster. Still, at least we've heard some announcements, unlike California fans. About the hosts John Fitzpatrick Runs the Rugby Morning newsletter Hosts MLR Coffee Break on MLR Weekly (Rugby Wrap Up) Hosts USA Rugby Happy Hour on Twitter Spaces Twitter: @rugbymorning Alistair Kirsch-Poole Writer/editor for Glorious Rugby Runs Tackle the Numbers Twitter: @AlistairKP

Episode Notes We return for a new year of Old Glory banter, starting with a surprising signing, the return of some familiar faces, and a whole lot of "rugby knowledge". About the hosts John Fitzpatrick Runs the Rugby Morning newsletter Hosts MLR Coffee Break on MLR Weekly (Rugby Wrap Up) Hosts USA Rugby Happy Hour on Twitter Spaces Twitter: @rugbymorning Alistair Kirsch-Poole Writer/editor for Glorious Rugby Runs Tackle the Numbers Twitter: @AlistairKP

Episode Notes In our last episode of the year, we cover a couple OGDC signings and the news around the league. We'll be off the next couple weeks and be back in your feeds in the new year. About the hosts John Fitzpatrick Runs the Rugby Morning newsletter Hosts MLR Coffee Break on MLR Weekly (Rugby Wrap Up) Hosts USA Rugby Happy Hour on Twitter Spaces Twitter: @rugbymorning Alistair Kirsch-Poole Writer/editor for Glorious Rugby Runs Tackle the Numbers Twitter: @AlistairKP

Episode Notes The big news is the release of the MLR schedule and what it means for Old Glory, but there have also been a bunch of player announcements and the drawing of RWC 2027 pools, making this a packed episode. About the hosts John Fitzpatrick Runs the Rugby Morning newsletter Hosts MLR Coffee Break on MLR Weekly (Rugby Wrap Up) Hosts USA Rugby Happy Hour on Twitter Spaces Twitter: @rugbymorning Alistair Kirsch-Poole Writer/editor for Glorious Rugby Runs Tackle the Numbers Twitter: @AlistairKP

Episode Notes Old Glory has brought in a new player and the league has brought in new leadership, and it looks like there's a new schedule on the way. About the hosts John Fitzpatrick Runs the Rugby Morning newsletter Hosts MLR Coffee Break on MLR Weekly (Rugby Wrap Up) Hosts USA Rugby Happy Hour on Twitter Spaces Twitter: @rugbymorning Alistair Kirsch-Poole Writer/editor for Glorious Rugby Runs Tackle the Numbers Twitter: @AlistairKP

Episode Notes Old Glory has added a new loosehead prop so we talk about how that position is shaping up, including an update on Jack Iscaro in France. About the hosts John Fitzpatrick Runs the Rugby Morning newsletter Hosts MLR Coffee Break on MLR Weekly (Rugby Wrap Up) Hosts USA Rugby Happy Hour on Twitter Spaces Twitter: @rugbymorning Alistair Kirsch-Poole Writer/editor for Glorious Rugby Runs Tackle the Numbers Twitter: @AlistairKP

Episode Notes Signings continue to roll in, the Eagles picked up a needed win, and World Rugby is shaking up the international calendar. But the league still exists and John is feeling weirdly optimistic. About the hosts John Fitzpatrick Runs the Rugby Morning newsletter Hosts MLR Coffee Break on MLR Weekly (Rugby Wrap Up) Hosts USA Rugby Happy Hour on Twitter Spaces Twitter: @rugbymorning Alistair Kirsch-Poole Writer/editor for Glorious Rugby Runs Tackle the Numbers Twitter: @AlistairKP

Episode Notes Old Glory DC continues sign quality young Americans and also finally confirmed their home stadium for 2026. However the news from around the league is darker. About the hosts John Fitzpatrick Runs the Rugby Morning newsletter Hosts MLR Coffee Break on MLR Weekly (Rugby Wrap Up) Hosts USA Rugby Happy Hour on Twitter Spaces Twitter: @rugbymorning Alistair Kirsch-Poole Writer/editor for Glorious Rugby Runs Tackle the Numbers Twitter: @AlistairKP

Episode Notes Another MLR team has pulled out of the league, leaving just 6 teams. We discuss that, before getting into Old Glory signings, Scotland blowing out the Eagles, and beer running out in Chicago. Also, AKP nails another signing. About the hosts John Fitzpatrick Runs the Rugby Morning newsletter Hosts MLR Coffee Break on MLR Weekly (Rugby Wrap Up) Hosts USA Rugby Happy Hour on Twitter Spaces Twitter: @rugbymorning Alistair Kirsch-Poole Writer/editor for Glorious Rugby Runs Tackle the Numbers Twitter: @AlistairKP

Episode Notes We talk about the good news and the bad news, a promising young player joining and a keystone player leaving. About the hosts John Fitzpatrick Runs the Rugby Morning newsletter Hosts MLR Coffee Break on MLR Weekly (Rugby Wrap Up) Hosts USA Rugby Happy Hour on Twitter Spaces Twitter: @rugbymorning Alistair Kirsch-Poole Writer/editor for Glorious Rugby Runs Tackle the Numbers Twitter: @AlistairKP

Episode Notes Teams have finally started announcing player signings, Old Glory included, and Jack Iscaro got his first start in the Top 14. About the hosts John Fitzpatrick Runs the Rugby Morning newsletter Hosts MLR Coffee Break on MLR Weekly (Rugby Wrap Up) Hosts USA Rugby Happy Hour on Twitter Spaces Twitter: @rugbymorning Alistair Kirsch-Poole Writer/editor for Glorious Rugby Runs Tackle the Numbers Twitter: @AlistairKP

Episode Notes Old Glory teased but didn't pull through on their venue change, MLR released a statement announcing that the 2026 season is happening, and also announced dramatic changes for domestic players. About the hosts John Fitzpatrick Runs the Rugby Morning newsletter Hosts MLR Coffee Break on MLR Weekly (Rugby Wrap Up) Hosts USA Rugby Happy Hour on Twitter Spaces Twitter: @rugbymorning Alistair Kirsch-Poole Writer/editor for Glorious Rugby Runs Tackle the Numbers Twitter: @AlistairKP

Episode Notes There's a lot to discuss this week with a potential change of venue for OGDC, Jack Iscaro heading to France, R360, Barbies, and more. About the hosts John Fitzpatrick Runs the Rugby Morning newsletter Hosts MLR Coffee Break on MLR Weekly (Rugby Wrap Up) Hosts USA Rugby Happy Hour on Twitter Spaces Twitter: @rugbymorning Alistair Kirsch-Poole Writer/editor for Glorious Rugby Runs Tackle the Numbers Twitter: @AlistairKP

Episode Notes A thankfully light news week gives us time to talk about the Women's RWC final, TRN+ shutting down, AJ MacGinty's future, and the continued expansion of Super Rugby Americas. About the hosts John Fitzpatrick Runs the Rugby Morning newsletter Hosts MLR Coffee Break on MLR Weekly (Rugby Wrap Up) Hosts USA Rugby Happy Hour on Twitter Spaces Twitter: @rugbymorning Alistair Kirsch-Poole Writer/editor for Glorious Rugby Runs Tackle the Numbers Twitter: @AlistairKP

Episode Notes A lot is still uncertain in Major League Rugby, but some things are starting to settle. We go over the latest rumors and dig into what it all might mean for OGDC. About the hosts John Fitzpatrick Runs the Rugby Morning newsletter Hosts MLR Coffee Break on MLR Weekly (Rugby Wrap Up) Hosts USA Rugby Happy Hour on Twitter Spaces Twitter: @rugbymorning Alistair Kirsch-Poole Writer/editor for Glorious Rugby Runs Tackle the Numbers Twitter: @AlistairKP

Episode Notes The Eagles qualified for the World Cup with a spirited win over Samoa, but chaos has returned to MLR. About the hosts John Fitzpatrick Runs the Rugby Morning newsletter Hosts MLR Coffee Break on MLR Weekly (Rugby Wrap Up) Hosts USA Rugby Happy Hour on Twitter Spaces Twitter: @rugbymorning Alistair Kirsch-Poole Writer/editor for Glorious Rugby Runs Tackle the Numbers Twitter: @AlistairKP

Episode Notes With the Women's Eagles out of the World Cup and without a head coach, the Men's Eagles prepare for a pivotal matchup with Samoa, and World Rugby announcing a quarter of a billion dollar investment in the American rugby market, we have a lot to get through this week. About the hosts John Fitzpatrick Runs the Rugby Morning newsletter Hosts MLR Coffee Break on MLR Weekly (Rugby Wrap Up) Hosts USA Rugby Happy Hour on Twitter Spaces Twitter: @rugbymorning Alistair Kirsch-Poole Writer/editor for Glorious Rugby Runs Tackle the Numbers Twitter: @AlistairKP

Episode Notes With both Eagles still technically in contention for advancing in their respective tournaments, we break down how long their odds are and what they need to do to get there. About the hosts John Fitzpatrick Runs the Rugby Morning newsletter Hosts MLR Coffee Break on MLR Weekly (Rugby Wrap Up) Hosts USA Rugby Happy Hour on Twitter Spaces Twitter: @rugbymorning Alistair Kirsch-Poole Writer/editor for Glorious Rugby Runs Tackle the Numbers Twitter: @AlistairKP

Episode Notes Simon Cross joined us to talk through the 2025 season, what the team needs to do to take the next step, Old Glory's draft picks, and how the league rules around rosters are changing for better or for worse. About the hosts John Fitzpatrick Runs the Rugby Morning newsletter Hosts MLR Coffee Break on MLR Weekly (Rugby Wrap Up) Hosts USA Rugby Happy Hour on Twitter Spaces Twitter: @rugbymorning Alistair Kirsch-Poole Writer/editor for Glorious Rugby Runs Tackle the Numbers Twitter: @AlistairKP

Episode Notes With 8 teams still left in the league, we go over some names to watch in the draft before covering the upcoming Rugby World Cup and Pacific Nations Cup action. About the hosts John Fitzpatrick Runs the Rugby Morning newsletter Hosts MLR Coffee Break on MLR Weekly (Rugby Wrap Up) Hosts USA Rugby Happy Hour on Twitter Spaces Twitter: @rugbymorning Alistair Kirsch-Poole Writer/editor for Glorious Rugby Runs Tackle the Numbers Twitter: @AlistairKP

Episode Notes With the league now down to 8 teams, we caught up with OGDC owners Chris Dunlavey and Paul Sheehy about what's been happening and what lies ahead for bit the league and the team. About the hosts John Fitzpatrick Runs the Rugby Morning newsletter Hosts MLR Coffee Break on MLR Weekly (Rugby Wrap Up) Hosts USA Rugby Happy Hour on Twitter Spaces Twitter: @rugbymorning Alistair Kirsch-Poole Writer/editor for Glorious Rugby Runs Tackle the Numbers Twitter: @AlistairKP

Episode Notes A lot of swirling rumors became confirmed reality on Wednesday, forcing us to re-record the podcast. It's a tumultuous time in the league, so we had a lot to cover. About the hosts John Fitzpatrick Runs the Rugby Morning newsletter Hosts MLR Coffee Break on MLR Weekly (Rugby Wrap Up) Hosts USA Rugby Happy Hour on Twitter Spaces Twitter: @rugbymorning Alistair Kirsch-Poole Writer/editor for Glorious Rugby Runs Tackle the Numbers Twitter: @AlistairKP

Episode Notes Lightning delays aside, the USA double header on Saturday was a rousing success. We dive into the matches and their implications, and also take a tangent into college rugby. About the hosts John Fitzpatrick Runs the Rugby Morning newsletter Hosts MLR Coffee Break on MLR Weekly (Rugby Wrap Up) Hosts USA Rugby Happy Hour on Twitter Spaces Twitter: @rugbymorning Alistair Kirsch-Poole Writer/editor for Glorious Rugby Runs Tackle the Numbers Twitter: @AlistairKP

Episode Notes A frustrating start to the men's Eagles international season neverless sets up an exciting doubleheader in DC this weekend. About the hosts John Fitzpatrick Runs the Rugby Morning newsletter Hosts MLR Coffee Break on MLR Weekly (Rugby Wrap Up) Hosts USA Rugby Happy Hour on Twitter Spaces Twitter: @rugbymorning Alistair Kirsch-Poole Writer/editor for Glorious Rugby Runs Tackle the Numbers Twitter: @AlistairKP

Episode Notes Old Glory may not be in the finals, but we give out thoughts anyway. We also go into some of the recent news about the rugby player's association. About the hosts John Fitzpatrick Runs the Rugby Morning newsletter Hosts MLR Coffee Break on MLR Weekly (Rugby Wrap Up) Hosts USA Rugby Happy Hour on Twitter Spaces Twitter: @rugbymorning Alistair Kirsch-Poole Writer/editor for Glorious Rugby Runs Tackle the Numbers Twitter: @AlistairKP

Episode Notes Despite a quiet confidence heading into the playoffs, Old Glory's season came to a disappointing end on Saturday. We talk about the game and where the team goes from here. About the hosts John Fitzpatrick Runs the Rugby Morning newsletter Hosts MLR Coffee Break on MLR Weekly (Rugby Wrap Up) Hosts USA Rugby Happy Hour on Twitter Spaces Twitter: @rugbymorning Alistair Kirsch-Poole Writer/editor for Glorious Rugby Runs Tackle the Numbers Twitter: @AlistairKP

Episode Notes The regular season is finished, so it's time for some knock-out rugby! We break down Old Glory's chances and strategies against Chicago in the conference semifinals. About the hosts John Fitzpatrick Runs the Rugby Morning newsletter Hosts MLR Coffee Break on MLR Weekly (Rugby Wrap Up) Hosts USA Rugby Happy Hour on Twitter Spaces Twitter: @rugbymorning Alistair Kirsch-Poole Writer/editor for Glorious Rugby Runs Tackle the Numbers Twitter: @AlistairKP

Episode Notes We break down the most chaotic and frustrating match of OGDC's season and preview what still has to be sorted out in the final round of the regular season. Also, please fill out the audience survey: https://gloriousrugby.com/survey About the hosts John Fitzpatrick Runs the Rugby Morning newsletter Hosts MLR Coffee Break on MLR Weekly (Rugby Wrap Up) Hosts USA Rugby Happy Hour on Twitter Spaces Twitter: @rugbymorning Alistair Kirsch-Poole Writer/editor for Glorious Rugby Runs Tackle the Numbers Twitter: @AlistairKP

Episode Notes We talk about Old Glory's regular season sweep of the Free Jacks and break down a match that was ropey but good enough for a win, then talk about how this positions the team for a potential run to the top of the table in the East. About the hosts John Fitzpatrick Runs the Rugby Morning newsletter Hosts MLR Coffee Break on MLR Weekly (Rugby Wrap Up) Hosts USA Rugby Happy Hour on Twitter Spaces Twitter: @rugbymorning Alistair Kirsch-Poole Writer/editor for Glorious Rugby Runs Tackle the Numbers Twitter: @AlistairKP

Episode Notes Spirits are high with Old Glory on a three-match win streak having just put up 7 tries against Anthem on the road. We break down what went well in that match, as well as the various playoff permutations that could see OGDC hosting a home playoff match. About the hosts John Fitzpatrick Runs the Rugby Morning newsletter Hosts MLR Coffee Break on MLR Weekly (Rugby Wrap Up) Hosts USA Rugby Happy Hour on Twitter Spaces Twitter: @rugbymorning Alistair Kirsch-Poole Writer/editor for Glorious Rugby Runs Tackle the Numbers Twitter: @AlistairKP

Episode Notes We review the rain-soaked win on Tuesday and how it sets up Old Glory for the final stretch of the season. About the hosts John Fitzpatrick Runs the Rugby Morning newsletter Hosts MLR Coffee Break on MLR Weekly (Rugby Wrap Up) Hosts USA Rugby Happy Hour on Twitter Spaces Twitter: @rugbymorning Alistair Kirsch-Poole Writer/editor for Glorious Rugby Runs Tackle the Numbers Twitter: @AlistairKP

Episode Notes As Old Glory goes into an odd midweek match, we talk about what went right against Utah and whether this is a turning point for the team. About the hosts John Fitzpatrick Runs the Rugby Morning newsletter Hosts MLR Coffee Break on MLR Weekly (Rugby Wrap Up) Hosts USA Rugby Happy Hour on Twitter Spaces Twitter: @rugbymorning Alistair Kirsch-Poole Writer/editor for Glorious Rugby Runs Tackle the Numbers Twitter: @AlistairKP

Episode Notes Guest co-host Ryan Ye steps in for Fitzy as we try to stay positive breaking down yet another loss. We also talk to head coach Simon Cross about what's gone wrong with the team recently and what everyone's doing to get things back on track. About the hosts John Fitzpatrick Runs the Rugby Morning newsletter Hosts MLR Coffee Break on MLR Weekly (Rugby Wrap Up) Hosts USA Rugby Happy Hour on Twitter Spaces Twitter: @rugbymorning Alistair Kirsch-Poole Writer/editor for Glorious Rugby Runs Tackle the Numbers Twitter: @AlistairKP

Episode Notes Old Glory breaks the home winning streak when the comeback falls just short against Miami, but we dive more into the bigger picture - why has this team become so inconsistent, and what can they to get back on the right track? About the hosts John Fitzpatrick Runs the Rugby Morning newsletter Hosts MLR Coffee Break on MLR Weekly (Rugby Wrap Up) Hosts USA Rugby Happy Hour on Twitter Spaces Twitter: @rugbymorning Alistair Kirsch-Poole Writer/editor for Glorious Rugby Runs Tackle the Numbers Twitter: @AlistairKP

Episode Notes In which there is a quarter of an hour's general bafflement about the state of the team, musings on the league's general defiance of predictability, concerns about players compelled to inaction through injury, and a set of predictions that nevertheless express some confidence that Old Glory will return to form. About the hosts John Fitzpatrick Runs the Rugby Morning newsletter Hosts MLR Coffee Break on MLR Weekly (Rugby Wrap Up) Hosts USA Rugby Happy Hour on Twitter Spaces Twitter: @rugbymorning Alistair Kirsch-Poole Writer/editor for Glorious Rugby Runs Tackle the Numbers Twitter: @AlistairKP

Episode Notes John Rizzo joins us to talk about what the team got wrong against LA and how the turned it around against Seattle last weekend. About the hosts John Fitzpatrick Runs the Rugby Morning newsletter Hosts MLR Coffee Break on MLR Weekly (Rugby Wrap Up) Hosts USA Rugby Happy Hour on Twitter Spaces Twitter: @rugbymorning Alistair Kirsch-Poole Writer/editor for Glorious Rugby Runs Tackle the Numbers Twitter: @AlistairKP