US Rugby Happy Hour

American Rugby Rising
  • 5.0 (2)
  • Rugby
  • Updated Weekly

US Rugby Happy Hour, hosted by the dynamic duo of Bill Baker of American Rugby Rising and John Fitzpatrick of Rugby Morning, is a captivating blend of insightful rugby discussions, entertaining banter, and a celebration of the sport’s spirit. With their wealth of knowledge and infectious enthusiasm, Bill and Fitzy create an engaging space for rugby enthusiasts to connect and revel in the game’s glory. Whether delving into the latest matches or sharing anecdotes with special guests, this live show is a must-attend for anyone passionate about rugby, offering a delightful intersection of camaraderie and sports analysis. Guests have included head coaches Gary Gold, Rob Cain and Mike Friday. USA Eagles Joe Taufete’e, Greg Peterson, Kate Zackary, Hope Rogers, Christian Dyer, and Hall of Famers, Dan Lyle and Todd Clever. Major League Rugby stars Mitch Wilson, Nick Civetta, Connor Mooneyham and former MLR Commissioner, George Killebrew. Those covering the news too, including Brian Ray of Americas Rugby News and Wendy Young of YSC Rugby.  Join us live on Facebook and Youtube (show days and times vary), or catch the Podcast replays right here! Follow @AmerRugbyRising on Twitter and @AmericanRugbyRising on Instagram for weekly guest announcements and direct link to the live shows. HOSTS: Bill Baker, an Emmy award winning editor and producer, has curated American Rugby Rising and Eagles Overseas Rugby since 1996, providing updates and news stories about USA Eagles plying their trade around the world.  http://www.americanrugbyrising.com eaglesoverseas@comcast.net John Fitzpatrick is the brain behind Rugby Morning, serving rugby news everyday via email newsletters to rugby fans around the world. John@rugbymorning.com http://www.rugbymorning.com

  1. 5d ago ·  Bonus

    Eagles Overseas: Big Wins and Debut Starts - Sept. 23-27, 2026

    In this episode of Eagles Overseas with Bill Baker, we recap match results and individual player performances from our USA Eagles across the globe, from matches played Sept. 23-27, 2026 Featured players in this episode: Lotte Sharp (Left Wing / Saracens - Next Gen Series) Tess Feury (Full back / Leicester Tigers - Next Gen Cup) Nick James (Loosehead Prop / Sale Sharks - Next Gen) Nafi Ma’afu (Reserve / Montauban - ProD2) AJ MacGinty (Fly half / Bristol Bears - Gallagher PREM Rugby) Jack Iscaro (Reserve / Paris - Top14) Jake Turnbull (Loosehead Prop / Wellington Lions - Hilux NPC) Finn Love (Left Wing / Cornish Pirates - Champ Rugby) Ale Heaney (Loosehead Prop / Cornish Pirates - Champ Rugby) Tomi Agbongbob (Number 8 / Cornish Pirates - Champ Rugby) Aidan King (Openside Flanker / Doncaster Knights - Champ Rugby) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Eagles Overseas: Big Wins and Debut Starts - Sept. 23-27, 2026

  2. Sep 24

    USA U20 Assistant Coach Marcel Brache on Junior World Championship & Developing US Rugby Pathways

    Former USA Eagle #503 and San Diego Legion standout Marcel Brache joins the show to share his journey from international play to coaching the next generation of American talent. Brache reflects on his recent experience as Assistant Coach for the USA Men’s U20 team at the World Rugby Junior World Championship in Georgia. He breaks down the squad’s resilient second-half performance against Uruguay, the fine margins separating American players from Tier 1 nations, and why exposure to top-tier competition is critical for building domestic pathways. Beyond high-performance rugby, Marcel dives into the grass-roots movement that makes California a hotbed for youth rugby. He discusses parent involvement, the importance of flag rugby for kids, and how nurturing passion, coaching education, and referee development will dictate the future growth of the sport in the United States. Like, follow, and subscribe and please leave a comment!! Check out americanrugbyrising.com for the latest on your USA Eagles, schedules, news and more! Hosts, Bill Baker and John Fitzpatrick are available for media opportunities and appearances. Contact information below. Bill Baker, an Emmy award winning editor and producer, has curated Eagles Overseas Rugby since 1996, providing updates and news stories about USA Eagles plying their trade around the world.  http://www.americanrugbyrising.com⁠ ⁠eaglesoverseas@comcast.net⁠ John Fitzpatrick is the brain behind Rugby Morning, serving rugby news everyday via email newsletters to rugby fans around the world. johndaniel.fitzpatrick@gmail.com Martin Pengelly is a Washington-based reporter and editor. His “The National Maul” Substack about rugby in the US. His first book, Brotherhood: When West Point Rugby Went To War, is published by Godine. https://thenationalmaul.substack.com/ Youtube | X | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Tiktok | Bluesky Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    USA U20 Assistant Coach Marcel Brache on Junior World Championship & Developing US Rugby Pathways

  3. Sep 23

    National Maul Edition: Comeback Victories, Classic Rivalries, and American Rugby Personalities

    Get ready for an energetic session on US Rugby Happy Hour’s National Maul edition! Guest columnist Martin Pengelly breaks down an action-packed slate of rugby action, contrasting the USA Men’s frustrating loss against Canada with the USA Women’s heroic second-half comeback victory over Ireland. We discuss smart bench management, reflect on the electric atmosphere and 68,000-strong crowd at the All Blacks vs. Springboks match in Baltimore, and dissect what it really takes to grow and "Americanize" rugby leading up to the upcoming World Cups. Plus, Martin teases his upcoming Guardian interview with Eagle Georgie Perris-Redding ahead of their match with Wales. Tune in for expert analysis, pitchside war stories, and an honest look at the state of American rugby! —————————————— Connect with US Rugby Happy Hour: Twitter: https://x.com/AmerRugbyRising Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/americanrugbyrising/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AmericanRugbyRising/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@americanrugbyrising Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@americanrugbyrising BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/americanrugbyrisin.bsky.social LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/3OjEHf8 🎧 Listen to this and previous episodes of US Rugby Happy Hour on Youtube and your favorite podcast player today! Apple: bit.ly/3Uuj9u7 Spotify: bit.ly/3ZxjAa0 Youtube: https://youtu.be/lPlb_zUNJmk Like, follow, and subscribe and please leave a comment!! Check out americanrugbyrising.com for the latest on your USA Eagles, schedules, news and more! Hosts, Bill Baker and John Fitzpatrick are available for media opportunities and appearances. Contact information below. Bill Baker, an Emmy award winning editor and producer, has curated Eagles Overseas Rugby since 1996, providing updates and news stories about USA Eagles plying their trade around the world.  http://www.americanrugbyrising.com⁠ ⁠eaglesoverseas@comcast.net⁠ John Fitzpatrick is the brain behind Rugby Morning, serving rugby news everyday via email newsletters to rugby fans around the world. johndaniel.fitzpatrick@gmail.com Martin Pengelly is a Washington-based reporter and editor. His “The National Maul” Substack about rugby in the US. His first book, Brotherhood: When West Point Rugby Went To War, is published by Godine. https://thenationalmaul.substack.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    National Maul Edition: Comeback Victories, Classic Rivalries, and American Rugby Personalities

  4. Sep 21 ·  Bonus

    Eagles Overseas: Sharp Scores Twice in PWR Next Gen Debut

    It was a big weekend of rugby from Friday through Sunday across France, New Zealand, and England. From debuts in Champ Rugby to multi-try performances in the PWR Next Gen Cup, here is the full breakdown of how American players fared abroad. Charlie Abel (Tighthead Prop / Oyonnax - ProD2) Nafi Ma’afu (Number 8 / Montauban - ProD2) Jake Turnbull (Loosehead Prop / Wellington Lions - Hilux NPC) Aidan King (Openside Flanker / Doncaster Knights - Champ Rugby) Lotte Sharp (Left Wing / Saracens - PWR Next Gen Cup) Nick James (Tighthead Prop / Sale Sharks - PWR Next Gen Cup) Tess Feury (Fullback / Leicester Tigers - PWR Next Gen Cup) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Eagles Overseas: Sharp Scores Twice in PWR Next Gen Debut

  5. Sep 17

    Inside USA Women’s Rugby with Head Coach Jack Hanratty

    Welcome back to another exciting episode of US Rugby Happy Hour! Kick starting the show with our signature customized, quirky intro jingle teasing Jack Hanratty's Irish adventures—complete with Guinness factory stairs and chasing deer in Phoenix Park—hosts Bill Baker and John Fitzpatrick sit down for a fun, candid chat with the USA Women's Rugby Head Coach. Returning for his fourth appearance on the podcast, Jack opens up about bringing the USA Women’s squad to train in Dublin at his hometown club in Skerries, blending local team-building activities, community outreach, and learning how to pour the perfect pint of Guinness. In this deep-dive interview, Coach Hanratty reflects on his evolving coaching philosophy as he navigates the unique background of the American athlete, managing a mix of collegiate, 7s, domestic, and overseas talent. He shares insights into strategic preparation for their WXV campaign opener against an in-form Irish side, the transition and trialing of the 4.5 size rugby ball, and squad selection dynamics ahead of test matches in Europe and on home soil. Additionally, Jack discusses the essential synergy between the USA 15s and 7s programs alongside head coach Emily Bydwell, building national depth, and expanding opportunities for domestic players. Tune in for a passionate, insight-packed masterclass on where USA Eagles rugby is heading! Timestamps: 00:00 - Intro & Welcome 00:54 - Show Intro Song & Jack Hanratty Returns 02:55 - Home Coming: Eagles Training at Skerries Rugby Club 06:38 - Team Building, Guinness Pours & Irish Folklore 08:35 - Adapting Coaching Style to the American Athlete 11:08 - Preparing for Ireland & Studying European Momentum 17:00 - Looking Ahead to Wales at Cardiff Arms Park 18:22 - International Match Calendars & Building Player Continuity 22:45 - Trialing the New 4.5 Size Rugby Ball 25:10 - Excitement for Upcoming USA Home Soil Matches 29:10 - Squad Selection Breakdown vs Ireland & Uncapped Talent 37:56 - Encouraging Overseas Competition vs Domestic Pathways 42:35 - Synergy Between USA 15s and 7s Programs 47:01 - Go-To Post-Match Irish Celebratory Meal & Wrap Up —————————————— Connect with US Rugby Happy Hour: Twitter: https://x.com/AmerRugbyRising Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/americanrugbyrising/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AmericanRugbyRising/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@americanrugbyrising Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@americanrugbyrising BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/americanrugbyrisin.bsky.social LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/3OjEHf8 🎧 Listen to this and previous episodes of US Rugby Happy Hour on Youtube and your favorite podcast player today! Apple: bit.ly/3Uuj9u7 Spotify: bit.ly/3ZxjAa0 Youtube: https://youtu.be/lPlb_zUNJmk Like, follow, and subscribe and please leave a comment!! Check out americanrugbyrising.com for the latest on your USA Eagles, schedules, news and more! Hosts, Bill Baker and John Fitzpatrick are available for media opportunities and appearances. Contact information below. Bill Baker, an Emmy award winning editor and producer, has curated Eagles Overseas Rugby since 1996, providing updates and news stories about USA Eagles plying their trade around the world.  http://www.americanrugbyrising.com⁠ ⁠eaglesoverseas@comcast.net⁠ John Fitzpatrick is the brain behind Rugby Morning, serving rugby news everyday via email newsletters to rugby fans around the world. johndaniel.fitzpatrick@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Inside USA Women’s Rugby with Head Coach Jack Hanratty

  6. Sep 14 ·  Bonus

    Eagles Overseas: ProD2, Top 14, Premiership Cup & NPC

    Welcome to US Rugby Happy Hour BONUS Segment: Eagles Overseas, We are tracking American rugby players competing across top-flight leagues and developmental setups across the globe. Today, we break down action from this past weekend, September 11-14, 2026. Player Performance Breakdown: Nafi Ma’afu (Montauban - ProD2) Kapeli Pifeleti (Provence Rugby - ProD2) Charlie Abel (Oyonnax - ProD2) Jack Iscaro (Stade Français Paris - Top 14) AJ MacGinty (Bristol Bears - Premiership Cup) Jake Turnbull (Wellington Lions - NPC) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    Eagles Overseas: ProD2, Top 14, Premiership Cup & NPC

  7. Sep 10

    USA Men's Eagles Face Eddie Jones & Japan in Pacific Nations Cup Showcase

    Hosts Bill Baker and John Fitzpatrick break down the USA Men’s Eagles roster as they prepare for a high-stakes test match against Japan in the Pacific Nations Cup. Facing a fast-paced Japanese side coached by Eddie Jones, the panel examines the challenges ahead following last year’s 47-21 defeat in Sacramento. The episode sets up the key focal points for Scott Lawrence’s squad, including the battle upfront, midfield stability, and dynamic options across the backline. The hosts walk through the 23-man squad, highlighting Chicago Hounds continuity in the halfbacks, veteran bench leadership from Sam Golla, and exciting young talent like Noah Brown and Julian Roberts. They also discuss missing overseas key figures like AJ MacGinty, depth across the back row, and setting target performance standards as the Eagles continue building toward the 2027 Rugby World Cup Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction & International Rugby Weekend Preview 01:54 - Recapping Last Year’s Loss & The Eddie Jones Factor 03:57 - Eagles Backline & Chicago Hounds Continuity 05:09 - Reserve Backs & Bench Impact 07:16 - Missing Internationals & Overseas Player Availability 12:05 - Forward Pack, Scrum Battle, and Breakdown Discipline 18:42 - Performance Goals: Targets & Raising the Floor Links & Resources: Official USA Eagles Website: https://eagles.rugby Support US Rugby Happy Hour / American Rugby Rising: https://www.americanrugbyrising.com —————————————— Connect with US Rugby Happy Hour: Twitter: https://x.com/AmerRugbyRising Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/americanrugbyrising/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AmericanRugbyRising/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@americanrugbyrising Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@americanrugbyrising BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/americanrugbyrisin.bsky.social LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/3OjEHf8 🎧 Listen to this and previous episodes of US Rugby Happy Hour on Youtube and your favorite podcast player today! iHeart: bit.ly/3A43Tff Apple: bit.ly/3Uuj9u7 Spotify: bit.ly/3ZxjAa0 Youtube: https://youtu.be/zo3gvigOpUs Like, follow, and subscribe and please leave a comment!! Check out americanrugbyrising.com for the latest on your USA Eagles, schedules, news and more! Hosts, Bill Baker and John Fitzpatrick are available for media opportunities and appearances. Contact information below. Bill Baker, an Emmy award winning editor and producer, has curated Eagles Overseas Rugby since 1996, providing updates and news stories about USA Eagles plying their trade around the world.  http://www.americanrugbyrising.com⁠ ⁠eaglesoverseas@comcast.net⁠ John Fitzpatrick is the brain behind Rugby Morning, serving rugby news everyday via email newsletters to rugby fans around the world. johndaniel.fitzpatrick@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    USA Men's Eagles Face Eddie Jones & Japan in Pacific Nations Cup Showcase

  8. Sep 10

    The National Maul - Honoring 9/11 & High-Stakes International Rugby

    On this edition of US Rugby Happy Hour, hosts Bill Baker and John Fitzpatrick reflect on rugby’s deeply poignant connection to 9/11, honoring heroes like Mark Bingham, Jeremy Glick, and Rick Rescorla. The conversation kicks off with our signature introduction jingle, "Use it or lose it all—time for The National Maul with Martin Pengelly!" setting the stage for a deeply reflective yet expansive conversation on the game's cultural footprint. Martin details his research into historical rugby newsletters and discusses his conversation with World Rugby's Alan Gilpin regarding bringing major international fixtures—including potential Six Nations matches—to North American soil. The panel also weighs in on the logistics of hosting the All Blacks and Springboks in Baltimore, the current health of Major League Rugby, and favorite rugby-themed movies. Tune in for a blend of poignant history, high-level sports administration analysis, and rugby banter. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction & Weekend Rugby Preview 02:14 - The National Maul Intro Jingle 03:00 - Rugby's Connection to 9/11 & Untold Stories 09:22 - World Rugby's Expansion & Bringing Six Nations to the US 16:35 - High-Stakes Logistics: All Blacks vs. Springboks in Baltimore 19:27 - The State of USA Rugby & Major League Rugby 25:10 - Documentary "Brothers on Three" & Favorite Rugby Movies Links & Resources: Read The National Maul Substack: https://thenationalmaul.substack.com Read Martin Pengelly on The Guardian: https://www.theguardian.com/profile/martinpengelly Support US Rugby Happy Hour / American Rugby Rising: https://www.americanrugbyrising.com #Rugby #USARugby #RugbyWorldCup #911Remembrance #AllBlacks #Springboks #SixNationRugby #MLR #USRugbyHappyHour Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

    The National Maul - Honoring 9/11 & High-Stakes International Rugby
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

US Rugby Happy Hour, hosted by the dynamic duo of Bill Baker of American Rugby Rising and John Fitzpatrick of Rugby Morning, is a captivating blend of insightful rugby discussions, entertaining banter, and a celebration of the sport’s spirit. With their wealth of knowledge and infectious enthusiasm, Bill and Fitzy create an engaging space for rugby enthusiasts to connect and revel in the game’s glory. Whether delving into the latest matches or sharing anecdotes with special guests, this live show is a must-attend for anyone passionate about rugby, offering a delightful intersection of camaraderie and sports analysis. Guests have included head coaches Gary Gold, Rob Cain and Mike Friday. USA Eagles Joe Taufete’e, Greg Peterson, Kate Zackary, Hope Rogers, Christian Dyer, and Hall of Famers, Dan Lyle and Todd Clever. Major League Rugby stars Mitch Wilson, Nick Civetta, Connor Mooneyham and former MLR Commissioner, George Killebrew. Those covering the news too, including Brian Ray of Americas Rugby News and Wendy Young of YSC Rugby.  Join us live on Facebook and Youtube (show days and times vary), or catch the Podcast replays right here! Follow @AmerRugbyRising on Twitter and @AmericanRugbyRising on Instagram for weekly guest announcements and direct link to the live shows. HOSTS: Bill Baker, an Emmy award winning editor and producer, has curated American Rugby Rising and Eagles Overseas Rugby since 1996, providing updates and news stories about USA Eagles plying their trade around the world.  http://www.americanrugbyrising.com eaglesoverseas@comcast.net John Fitzpatrick is the brain behind Rugby Morning, serving rugby news everyday via email newsletters to rugby fans around the world. John@rugbymorning.com http://www.rugbymorning.com

Information

  • Creator
    American Rugby Rising
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    215
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    US Rugby Happy Hour

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