The Growth of Rugby in America | Chicago Hounds, MLR Culture & the Future of US Rugby
Sports
About
Welcome to the Rugby 100 Club Podcast with Matt Courtright — where we talk about the growth of rugby across the United States 🇺🇸. In this episode we dive into the latest updates around American rugby, including discussion around Major League Rugby, the Chicago Hounds, rugby culture, and the people helping grow the game across the country. Rugby in America is building momentum — from grassroots clubs to professional teams — and we explore what’s happening behind the scenes, the community around the sport, and why the future of rugby in the U.S. is exciting. Whether you're a longtime rugby supporter or just discovering the sport, this podcast is about the stories, the culture, and the people driving American rugby forward. 🏉 Topics include: • Major League Rugby updates • Chicago Hounds discussion • Rugby culture in the United States • The growth of American rugby • Community and fans around the sport Subscribe for more conversations about rugby in America, Major League Rugby, and the people growing the game. #Rugby #MajorLeagueRugby #MLR #ChicagoHounds #AmericanRugby #RugbyPodcast #RugbyUnion
Episodes
- Chicago Hounds Are Taking Over MLR 👀 | Week 5 Chaos, Free Jacks Collapse & Playoff Talk
The Chicago Hounds' continued dominance in Major League Rugby is discussed, along with other teams' performances and playoff predictions. The episode covers Chicago's form, Seattle's win against New England, the Free Jacks' struggles, and…
- Marcus Holt on San Diego Legion, Fan Culture, Rivalries & the Heart of Rugby in America
In this episode, Marcus Holt from San Diego Legion discusses fan culture, MLR rivalries, matchday moments, and community building in American rugby. He shares insights on tailgates, travel stories, and the challenges of growing the sport i…
- Chicago Hounds DOMINATING MLR… But Is the League Holding Itself Back? 👀🏉
This episode discusses the Chicago Hounds' performance in Major League Rugby, analyzing their dominance and the factors contributing to their success. It also covers the current state of MLR, focusing on team disparities, fan engagement, a…
- Chicago Hounds Bring the Heat, Legion Shock the Free Jacks & MLR Week 2 Delivers | Rugby 100 Club
Matt Courtright and Paul Burdak recap Major League Rugby Week 2, discussing the Chicago Hounds' win, Seattle's performance, and San Diego Legion's victory over the Free Jacks. The episode covers standout players, fan atmosphere, and implic…
- Birthday Tries, Big Hits & Anthem’s Breakthrough Win | MLR Week 1 Recap
Anthem secured their first win in MLR Week 1, sparking celebration in the locker room. The episode discusses birthday tries, impactful hits, and team dynamics, offering predictions for the week.
- Sam Matenga Opens Up: Seattle Seawolves, Crusaders, Concussions & Rugby Culture
Matt Courtright interviews Sam Matenga about his rugby career, from Australia and Seattle to training with the Crusaders and winning a championship. They explore rugby culture, life in America, and the sport's global growth.
- Robin Watkins on San Diego Legion, California Rugby, and What Fans Really Think | Rugby 100 Club
This episode features a conversation with Robin Watkins about the San Diego Legion, California rugby, fan sentiment, and the unique culture of the sport.
- CONNER MOONEYHAM on Injury, Comeback & Life in MLR | Rugby 100 Club
Conner Mooneyham shares his experiences with injury, recovery, and competing in Major League Rugby. The episode covers the resilience, mindset, and sacrifices required for professional rugby.
- Connor Mooneyham on Family, MLR, Anthem Rugby & Growing the Game | Rugby 100 Club
Connor Mooneyham joins Rugby 100 Club to discuss his transition within Major League Rugby, family life, and the potential for rugby
- Chance "Chango" Wenglewski & Matt discuss his Rugby Journey and how it lead to Seattle.
Matt and Chance "Chango" Wenglewski discuss his personal rugby journey and how it led him to Seattle. The conversation touches on the culture of Major League Rugby and the broader growth of rugby in America.
- Doc Irey & Matt discuss his Military & Rugby Life
Doc Irey and Matt discuss Irey's military and rugby career, covering his entry into the sport and the culture surrounding Major League Rugby.
- Brock Gallagher & Matt have A candid conversation
Brock Gallagher and Matt engage in a candid conversation covering Gallagher's entry into rugby and discussing the growth of the sport in America, MLR culture, and the future of US Rugby. The episode touches upon themes of community, sports…
- Join Matt talk about Seth's road to the Championship final
Matt talks about Seth's journey to the Championship final and his personal connection to rugby.
- Mike Brown & Matt chat about Coaching in the MLR.
Matt speaks with Mike Brown about his experience coaching at the highest level of American rugby in Major League Rugby. The conversation touches upon the culture of the league.
- Cam Orr & Matt chat it up about his Rugby life and his future
Matt chats with Cammy Orr about his rugby life and future. The conversation touches on playing at the highest levels and the concept of 'Rugby for the people, by the people.'
- Justin Hickey & Matt for a conversation about Coaching the College level at Notre Dame 🍀
Matt and Justin Hickey discuss coaching college rugby at Notre Dame. The episode touches on the growth of rugby in America with a focus on MLR culture and the future of the sport.
- Jamie McFarland & Matt discuss Bend Rugby & Cascade Classic Tournament
Jamie McFarland and Matt discuss Bend Rugby and the Cascade Classic Tournament. The event took place on August 23rd at Pine Nursery Park in Bend, Oregon.
- Matt "Wags" Wagner & Matt discuss the layers of Chicago Rugby
Matt "Wags" Wagner and Matt discuss the various aspects and community focus of Chicago Rugby, emphasizing its grassroots nature.
- Jacob Gonzales & Matt chat about MLR & Club Refereeing Rugby
Jacob Gonzales and Matt discuss MLR and club refereeing in rugby. The podcast focuses on rugby culture and its development in America.
- Robin Kaluzniak & Matt for a chat about Reffing at the highest levels.
Robin Kaluzniak and Matt share insights on officiating rugby at the elite level.
- Joe Taufete'e & Matt chat about breaking world records & playing RUGBY at the highest levels.
Joe Taufete'e and Matt share insights on breaking world records and competing in rugby at the highest levels. The discussion touches upon the culture of Major League Rugby (MLR) and the future prospects of rugby in the United States.
- Devin Short: A Rugby Journey – Retirement Reflections and Life Lessons
Rugby veteran Devin Short shares reflections on his retirement, career highlights, challenges, and the life lessons he gained. The episode offers insights for rugby fans and those seeking inspiration.
- Brad "TUX" Tucker as Matt asks Qs: daily routine, struggles & more.
Brad "TUX" Tucker discusses his daily routine and personal struggles in rugby during a Q&A session. The episode touches upon the growth of rugby in America, MLR culture, and the sport's future in the US.
- Brad "TUX" Tucker & Matt catch up and talk about the 2025 upcoming season. (Recd 1/2026)
Brad "TUX" Tucker and Matt discuss the upcoming 2025 Major League Rugby season. The conversation touches on the 'Rugby for the people, by the people' ethos.
- Chicago Hounds, Free Jacks Showdown & Rugby Social! | Phil Groves Interview
This episode features an interview with Phil Groves, minority owner of the Chicago Hounds. They discuss fan culture, the Hounds vs. Freejacks match, and an upcoming rugby social event.
- Marques Goodwin & Matt catch up, talk life & referring rugby at all levels.⭐️
Marques Goodwin and Matt share insights into their lives and their involvement in refereeing rugby across different levels of the sport. The episode touches on the grassroots nature of rugby and its expanding presence in America.
- Ollie Gilpin - Growing Rugby in the U.S.: Fandom & Major League Rugby’s Future
Ollie Gilpin, Senior Strategist for OS studios, joins the podcast to discuss strategies for growing rugby fandom and expanding Major League Rugby in the U.S. The conversation covers building a passionate fanbase and shaping the future of t…
- Fury, Grit, and Rugby Camaraderie | Matt & Josh Shibata Talk MLR
Matt and Josh Shibata explore the intense and passionate aspects of rugby, including a coach's surprising decision, the team's potential, and player Luke White. They also discuss the unique bond shared by rugby players.
- Rugby, Nicknames, and Big Dreams: Lunch Chat with Pagopagohokma Haini & Michael ‘Handii’ Hand II
Matt Courtright shares a casual lunch conversation with Pagopagohokma Haini and Michael ‘Handii’ Hand II, discussing rugby, nicknames, and experiences with Major League Rugby players, while dreaming of future rugby endeavors.
- The Growth of Rugby in America 🇺🇸 | Chicago Hounds, MLR Culture & the Future of US Rugby
This episode of the Rugby 100 Club Podcast covers the expansion of rugby in America, focusing on Major League Rugby, the Chicago Hounds, and the culture surrounding the sport. It explores the momentum building from grassroots to profession…
- Voodoo Old Boys Rugby & Stories: The UPCOMING 2026 Tournament
The Voodoo Old Boys Rugby team previews their April 18, 2026 tournament. The episode explores the camaraderie, friendships, and passion inherent in rugby culture, inviting listeners to feel part of the team.
- California Legion vs Anthem | Major League Rugby Talk with Paul Byrdak
Matt Courtright and Paul Byrdak preview the California Legion vs Anthem Major League Rugby Week 1 game, analyzing team rosters, key players, and potential season impact.
- Latho tells about his career from Player to Coach: The Journey to Leading the Chicago Hounds
This episode features Latho discussing his rugby career, from playing to coaching the Chicago Hounds. It covers his personal journey, the transition between roles, and his passion for the sport, with information supported by the North Amer…
- NE Free Jacks vs Chicago Hounds | Major League Rugby Talk with Paul Byrdak
Matt Courtright and Paul Byrdak discuss the Major League Rugby matchup between the NE Free Jacks and Chicago Hounds. They break down the teams' physicality, structure, and momentum, considering what it means for the league's power dynamics.
- Lizard Lewis Talks Rugby Culture, Stories & Passion | Rugby 100 Club with Matt Courtright
In this episode of Rugby 100 Club, host Matt Courtright talks with Lizard Lewis about the culture, stories, and passion of rugby. The conversation focuses on the people and lifestyle that make the sport special.
- The Growth of Rugby in America | Chicago Hounds, MLR Culture & the Future of USA Rugby
This episode of the Rugby 100 Club Podcast discusses the growth of rugby in America, covering Major League Rugby, the Chicago Hounds, and the sport's culture and community. It highlights the momentum of rugby from grassroots to professiona…
- Seattle Seawolves vs Old Glory DC | Major League Rugby Talk with Paul Byrdak
This episode features Paul Byrdak discussing the Seattle Seawolves and Old Glory DC, exploring their unique identities and contributions to the growth of Major League Rugby in the United States. The conversation also touches upon the broad…