Behind the Ruck

Behind the Ruck
Behind the Ruck

Rugby’s funniest duo — Rudy Paige & Juan De Jongh (Springboks, Stormers, Blue Bulls)Provides next-level access to life in rugby union as it unfolds. They will drop insights about past experiences, current games and share unique perspectives on trending rugby news and headlines. Off-field interests, and engaging conversations with special guests.    Watch and listen to new episodes during the rugby season & check out Instagram, Twitter and TikTok for all the best moments from the show. 

  1. 3 DAYS AGO

    BTR Ep. 84 | Ben-Jason Dixon Opens Up on Springboks, Love Life & wows us with his Musical Skills 🎤🎶

    This week on Behind the Ruck, we’re joined by the hard-hitting Ben-Jason Dixon! 💥🔥 We kick things off by diving into the Springbok Alignment Camp, breaking down Rassie Erasmus’ selections both locally and abroad. Who made the cut, and what does it mean for the upcoming international season? 🇿🇦🏉 Then, Ben-Jason Dixon joins the pod to chat about his rugby journey. He shares what it means to represent the Stormers, how he felt getting his first Springbok call-up, and the emotions of making his debut for the Boks. He also reflects on his Varsity Cup triumph with Maties while balancing his Engineering Degree, showing just how much hard work went into his success. We also get a little personal—Ben-Jason opens up about his love life and relationship status. 👀💬 Before wrapping up, we name our BrightRock Player of the Week, highlighting the standout performer from the latest round of rugby. Finally, we break down all the weekend results and look ahead to the upcoming fixtures. And to close things off in style, Ben-Jason treats us to a special surprise—showcasing his singing and musical talents! 🎶🎤 Who knew the big man had pipes? Chapters: 00:00 Intro 02:19 Springbok Alignment Camp 05:17 Ben-Jason Dixon Interview 08:02 Representing the Stormers 23:39 Springbok Call-up and Debut 31:40 University Days, Winning Varsity Cup 38:39 Love Life 48:44 Brightrock Bounce Player of the Week 50:44 Results 58:16 Fixtures 01:04:26 Credits Behind the Ruck is supported by SuperSportBET, make sure you place your bets this weekend: https://www.supersportbet.com/ A big shoutout to our official apparel sponsor, Macron! 🏅 Don’t miss their incredible range—check it out here: https://www.macron.com/wo?srsltid=AfmBOoqOB-JWRvQJmCE3GhkXhChu0fIbRexUKUcDe_OBCk6-PQQKURkb Our audio sponsor for this episode is PlanetWorld South Africa. Check out their services and products on their website:https://www.planetworld.co.za Connect with us on our social pages 👇 WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaybG05H5JLs9rvAD321 Website: https://www.behindtheruckpodcast.com/ Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/behindtheruckpodcast?igsh=MWQzcWM0OTg1eTli Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100094862943119 TikTok : https://www.tiktok.com/@behindtheruckpodcast?_t=8p5FQddj1mv&_r=1

    1h 4m
  2. 3 DAYS AGO

    BTR Ep. 83 | Ricky Schroeder Went from Rugby Star to Media Icon | URC Chats, Six Nation Drama and many more!

    This week on Behind The Ruck, we’re excited to welcome Ricky Schroeder! A former rugby pro turned media personality, Ricky made his mark as a talented scrumhalf, playing for teams like the Lions, Western Province, and Southern Kings. Since retiring from professional rugby, he has successfully transitioned into broadcasting, where he continues to share his passion for the game as a presenter and commentator. Rudy and Juan kick things off with the BrightRock Player of the Week, highlighting the standout performer from the highly anticipated North-South Derby between the Bulls and Stormers. Expect expert analysis, key takeaways, and plenty of debate as they break down the big moments from the match. Ricky then joins the conversation to discuss Living a Balanced Life Post-Rugby. He opens up about the challenges of retiring from the sport, his journey into broadcasting, and how he has found a new rhythm in life after rugby. The trio also reflects on Ricky’s rugby career, from the highs of his playing days to the valuable lessons he has taken forward. To wrap up the episode, Juan and Rudy run through the latest URC and Six Nations results, analyzing the biggest matches and looking ahead to the upcoming fixtures. Before signing off, they drop a special surprise in partnership with BrightRock, so be sure to stay tuned until the end! 🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and join the conversation using #RuckersUnite! Chapters: 00:00 Intro 02:21 Brightrock Bounce Player of the Week 04:11 Ricky Schroeder Interview 05:24 Living a Balanced Life Post-rugby 13:58 Moving Into Broadcasting, Hanging Up The Boots 26:38 Looking Back On Ricky's Rugby Career 33:52 Brightrock Derby Result 42:12 Six Nations Results 49:41 URC Fixtures 58:52 Special Announcement 01:01:39 Credits Behind the Ruck is supported by SuperSportBET, make sure you place your bets this weekend: https://www.supersportbet.com/ A big shoutout to our official apparel sponsor, Macron! 🏅 Don’t miss their incredible range—check it out here: https://www.macron.com/wo?srsltid=AfmBOoqOB-JWRvQJmCE3GhkXhChu0fIbRexUKUcDe_OBCk6-PQQKURkb Our audio sponsor for this episode is PlanetWorld South Africa. Check out their services and products on their website:https://www.planetworld.co.za Connect with us on our social pages 👇 WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaybG05H5JLs9rvAD321 Website: https://www.behindtheruckpodcast.com/ Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/behindtheruckpodcast?igsh=MWQzcWM0OTg1eTli Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100094862943119 TikTok : https://www.tiktok.com/@behindtheruckpodcast?_t=8p5FQddj1mv&_r=1

    1h 2m
  3. FEB 6

    BTR Ep. 82 | Malcolm Marx on Rassie's Bomb Squad Revolution | Life in Japan, Derby Predictions and many more! 💣🔥

    In the latest episode of Behind the Ruck, we’re joined by none other than Malcolm Marx! 💥 The Springbok powerhouse, currently playing for Kubota Spears Funabashi Tokyo Bay in Japan. He speaks about adapting to life in Japan, and how his playing style fits into his preparation for games. Before Malcolm joins, Juan and Rudy kick things off by diving into the highly anticipated BrightRock Derby Weekend, where the DHL Stormers take on the Vodacom Bulls in a massive North-South showdown! 🔥 Malcolm opens up about the adjustments he’s had to make both on and off the field in Japan and how his meticulous preparation allows him to stay at the top of his game. He also shares insights into how Coach Rassie Erasmus revolutionized the way South Africa approaches impact players, branding the bench as the Bomb Squad, which played a crucial role in the Springboks’ success. Beyond rugby, Malcolm speaks about his business venture with former Springbok teammate Steven Kitshoff, launching Bombsquad Beer, a brand inspired by their dominant forward pack. He also weighs in on the Bulls vs. Stormers clash, giving his take on who he thinks will come out on top. To wrap things up, Rudy and Juan break down other exciting URC fixtures, analyzing what’s in store for the teams battling it out this weekend. 📢 Don’t miss this one, Ruckers! Hit that like button, subscribe, and drop your predictions for the BrightRock Derby in the comments! Who are you backing? 🏉🔥 #BehindTheRuck #MalcolmMarx #BombSquad #URC #BrightRockDerby #Rugby #RuckersUnite Chapters: 00:00 Intro 03:58 Brightrock Derby Build-up 13:38 Malcolm Marx Interview 15:46 Playing and Living in Japan 33:06 Prep and Playstyle 44:43 Bomb Squad Beer 51:18 Results 54:09 Fixtures 58:40 Credits Behind the Ruck is supported by SuperSportBET, make sure you place your bets this weekend: https://www.supersportbet.com/ A big shoutout to our official apparel sponsor, Macron! 🏅 Don’t miss their incredible range—check it out here: https://www.macron.com/wo?srsltid=AfmBOoqOB-JWRvQJmCE3GhkXhChu0fIbRexUKUcDe_OBCk6-PQQKURkb Our audio sponsor for this episode is PlanetWorld South Africa. Check out their services and products on their website:https://www.planetworld.co.za Connect with us on our social pages 👇 WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaybG05H5JLs9rvAD321 Website: https://www.behindtheruckpodcast.com/ Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/behindtheruckpodcast?igsh=MWQzcWM0OTg1eTli Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100094862943119 TikTok : https://www.tiktok.com/@behindtheruckpodcast?_t=8p5FQddj1mv&_r=1

    59 min
  4. JAN 29

    BTR Ep. 81 | The PRESSURE of Being Springbok Captain | Reality Check after Rugby | Jean de Villiers Tells All!

    In the latest episode of Behind the Ruck, Rudy and Juan sit down with former Springbok captain Jean de Villiers for an in-depth conversation about life on and off the field. He opens up about the challenges of transitioning from rugby to the corporate world, adjusting to a new routine, and finding purpose beyond the game. Jean reflects on his standout career moments, including how special his 101st Test match was, played in front of his home crowd. He shares the day he’d relive if he could, reminisces on his journey from childhood to becoming a Springbok, and recalls the moments that shaped his passion for rugby. As a former captain, he discusses the pressure of leading the national team and the responsibility that came with it. He also speaks candidly about the struggles he faced with injuries, the tough road to recovery, and the mental resilience needed to return to the game. Rudy and Juan wrap up the episode with the latest URC results and a look ahead at some exciting upcoming fixtures. Chapters: 00:00 Intro 02:42 Stormers VS Bulls Ticket Giveaway! 03:51 Jean de Villiers Interview 05:58 Adjusting to Life After Rugby 24:16 Growing Up, Falling In Love With Rugby 32:05 Memories from a Stellar Career 36:29 Pressure of Being Bok Captain 43:37 Dealing with Injuries 58:57 Results 01:01:07 Brightrock Bounce Player of the Week 01:03:03 Fixtures 01:04:45 Credits A big shoutout to our official apparel sponsor, Macron! 🏅 Don’t miss their incredible range—check it out here: https://www.macron.com/wo?srsltid=AfmBOoqOB-JWRvQJmCE3GhkXhChu0fIbRexUKUcDe_OBCk6-PQQKURkb Our audio sponsor for this episode is PlanetWorld South Africa. Check out their services and products on their website:https://www.planetworld.co.za Connect with us on our social pages 👇 WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaybG05H5JLs9rvAD321 Website: https://www.behindtheruckpodcast.com/ Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/behindtheruckpodcast?igsh=MWQzcWM0OTg1eTli Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100094862943119 TikTok : https://www.tiktok.com/@behindtheruckpodcast?_t=8p5FQddj1mv&_r=1

    1h 4m
  5. JAN 29

    BTR Ep. 80 | French Rugby DOMINATES Investec Championship Cup | Can the Springboks Stop Them!?

    This week on Behind the Ruck, Juan and Rudy bring you an intimate and in-depth rugby discussion! They dive into the latest rugby debates, unveil the Bounce Player of the Week, and break down the Investec Champions Cup results. Discover why all South African teams are out of the main competition, with only three advancing to the EPCR Challenge Cup. The duo analyzes French clubs' dominance in the Champions Cup knockout stages and explores the state of South African Rugby in European competitions, pondering implications for the year-end Springboks vs France test. Plus, get excited for the return of the URC with upcoming fixture highlights. To cap it off, Juan and Rudy offer a sneak peek into the Six Nations. Don't miss this rugby-packed episode! Like, subscribe, and hit that notification bell to stay in the loop with all things rugby! 🏉🎙️ #BehindTheRuck #RugbyTalk #ChampionsCup #URC #SixNations Chapters: 00:00 Intro 04:01 Bounce Player of the Week 06:45 Results 16:32 Champions Cup Performance Review 27:25 French Club Rugby Domination 34:01 State of SA Rugby Clubs 35:32 Fixtures, URC Is Back! 41:33 Six Nations Preview 47:04 Credits Behind the Ruck is supported by SuperSportBET, make sure you place your bets this weekend: https://www.supersportbet.com/ A big shoutout to our official apparel sponsor, Macron! 🏅 Don’t miss their incredible range—check it out here: https://www.macron.com/wo?srsltid=AfmBOoqOB-JWRvQJmCE3GhkXhChu0fIbRexUKUcDe_OBCk6-PQQKURkb Our audio sponsor for this episode is PlanetWorld South Africa. Check out their services and products on their website:https://www.planetworld.co.za Connect with us on our social pages 👇 WhatsApp: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaybG05H5JLs9rvAD321 Website: https://www.behindtheruckpodcast.com/ Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/behindtheruckpodcast?igsh=MWQzcWM0OTg1eTli Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100094862943119 TikTok : https://www.tiktok.com/@behindtheruckpodcast?_t=8p5FQddj1mv&_r=1

    47 min
  6. JAN 17

    BTR Ep. 79 | Thibaud Flament Talks Toulouse, SA Rugby, and His Next Big Move! 🚀

    This week on Behind the Ruck, Rudy and Juan bring you all the latest rugby news and updates from the past weekend, including a breakdown of standout moments and results. They also introduce an exciting new segment: the Brightrock Bounce Player of the Week, celebrating the top performances in rugby! Later, we’re joined by the incredible Thibaud Flament, who gives us a deep dive into his journey and insights. Thibaud shares his thoughts on Toulouse’s unique and dynamic play style, the impact of South Africa’s inclusion in European club tournaments, and how his upbringing shaped his rugby career and many more. He also opens up about his future plans and what’s next for him as one of the prominent figures in rugby. Rudy and Juan also wrap up the episode with an in-depth discussion on the Champions Cup and Challenge Cup results, giving their take on the weekend's standout games and players. Don’t miss this episode packed with exclusive insights, new segments, and all the rugby vibes you love. Like, share, and subscribe to stay in the loop with Behind the Ruck! Chapters: 00:00 Intro 00:42 Line-up, News and Updates 07:26 Brightrock Bounce Player Of The Week 10:23 Thibaud Flament Interview 16:31 Discussing Toulouse Play Style 23:31 SA's Inclusion in European Club Tournaments 31:25 Thibaud's Upbringing and Rugby Journey 35:38 Future Plans for Thibaud 40:48 Champions and Challenge Cup Results 52:37 Fixtures 01:00:36 Credits Behind the Ruck is supported by SuperSportBET, make sure you place your bets this weekend: https://www.supersportbet.com/ A big shoutout to our official apparel sponsor, Macron! 🏅 Don’t miss their incredible range—check it out here: https://www.macron.com/wo?srsltid=AfmBOoqOB-JWRvQJmCE3GhkXhChu0fIbRexUKUcDe_OBCk6-PQQKURkb Our audio sponsor for this episode is PlanetWorld South Africa. Check out their services and products on their website:https://www.planetworld.co.za Connect with us on our social pages 👇 Website: https://www.behindtheruckpodcast.com/ Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/behindtheruckpodcast?igsh=MWQzcWM0OTg1eTli Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100094862943119 TikTok : https://www.tiktok.com/@behindtheruckpodcast?_t=8p5FQddj1mv&_r=1

    1 hr
  7. JAN 8

    BTR Ep. 78 | Springbok 2025 Debutants? Rudy & Juan Investec Challenger Cup Predictions!

    This week on Behind the Ruck, our dynamic hosts, Rudy Paige and Juan de Jongh, take center stage for a jam-packed episode! With no guest this time, they bring their signature energy and expert insights to discuss all things rugby. Rudy and Juan kick things off by welcoming our newest sponsor, BrightRock, and introducing an exciting new segment. They recap the festive season’s rugby results and provide an in-depth look at this weekend’s Investec Challenger Cup fixtures. They also dive into the state of South African rugby, highlighting the players they’re excited to see and sharing their bold predictions for 2025 Springbok debutants. Plus, they explore the gaps the Springboks might need to fill after the 2027 World Cup, offering valuable insights from their own experiences. Don’t miss this action-packed episode filled with expert analysis and plenty of banter. Like, share, and subscribe to join the Behind the Ruck journey, and join the conversation with! Behind The Ruck WhatsApp Channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaybG05H5JLs9rvAD321 Behind the Ruck is supported by SuperSportBET, make sure you place your bets this weekend: https://www.supersportbet.com/ A big shoutout to our official apparel sponsor, Macron! 🏅 Don’t miss their incredible range—check it out here: https://www.macron.com/wo?srsltid=AfmBOoqOB-JWRvQJmCE3GhkXhChu0fIbRexUKUcDe_OBCk6-PQQKURkb Chapters: 00:00 Intro 00:38 BTR Is Back Home 03:52 New Sponsor Announcement 06:01 Discussing the Festive Season Results 07:54 Champions Cup Fixtures 32:07 State of SA Rugby Overview 39:57 2025 Springbok Debut Predictions 44:09 Post-2027 Squad Gaps 50:04 Credits Our audio sponsor for this episode is PlanetWorld South Africa. Check out their services and products on their website:https://www.planetworld.co.za Connect with us on our social pages 👇 Website: https://www.behindtheruckpodcast.com/ Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/behindtheruckpodcast?igsh=MWQzcWM0OTg1eTli Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100094862943119 TikTok : https://www.tiktok.com/@behindtheruckpodcast?_t=8p5FQddj1mv&_r=1

    50 min
  8. JAN 6

    BTR Ep. 77 | Elton Jantjies Reflects on His Journey | Pressure, Challenges, and Rugby Success!

    This week on Behind the Ruck, we’re thrilled to welcome the iconic Elton Jantjies for an in-depth conversation about his incredible journey on and off the rugby field. Elton opens up about how coaching has influenced his life and career, his upbringing, and how he manages pressure on and off the pitch. He also shares how playing in different countries helped shape his game and revisits his under-19 Lions days alongside Rudy, offering heartfelt memories from that time. Elton dives into the vital role of senior players in a team, explaining the importance of leadership and understanding what it truly means to play for something greater. Reflecting on his stellar career with the Springboks and Lions, he reveals how achieving one goal inspired him to set the next, always striving for excellence. He also gives us insight into his unique kicking style and how it has become a defining part of his game. To close the episode, Rudy and Juan take a moment to reflect on the year that was, share their aspirations for the new year, and wish all of you a Happy New Year. They also introduce our WhatsApp Channel, where you can join the conversation and stay updated on all things Behind the Ruck. Don’t miss this powerful and inspiring episode. Like, share, and subscribe to join us on this incredible rugby journey! A big shoutout to our official apparel sponsor, Macron! 🏅 Don’t miss their incredible range—check it out here: https://www.macron.com/wo?srsltid=AfmBOoqOB-JWRvQJmCE3GhkXhChu0fIbRexUKUcDe_OBCk6-PQQKURkb Chapters: 00:00 Intro 00:46 Happy New Year & Lineup 02:55 Elton Jantjies Interview 06:28 Gamechangers Coaching 19:06 Growing Up 28:03 Dealing With On and Off-Field Pressure 37:58 Learning from Different Clubs and Countries 55:12 2015-2019 Lions Squad 01:02:26 Elton's Kicking Style 01:09:27 BTR Goals for the Year 01:12:04 Credits Our audio sponsor for this episode is PlanetWorld South Africa. Check out their services and products on their website:https://www.planetworld.co.za Connect with us on our social pages 👇 Website: https://www.behindtheruckpodcast.com/ Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/behindtheruckpodcast?igsh=MWQzcWM0OTg1eTli Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100094862943119 TikTok : https://www.tiktok.com/@behindtheruckpodcast?_t=8p5FQddj1mv&_r=1

    1h 12m

Ratings & Reviews

4.7
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Rugby’s funniest duo — Rudy Paige & Juan De Jongh (Springboks, Stormers, Blue Bulls)Provides next-level access to life in rugby union as it unfolds. They will drop insights about past experiences, current games and share unique perspectives on trending rugby news and headlines. Off-field interests, and engaging conversations with special guests.    Watch and listen to new episodes during the rugby season & check out Instagram, Twitter and TikTok for all the best moments from the show. 

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