The ERA Rugby Podcast with Bryony and Nash

The opportunities available to aspiring female rugby players are growing—but understanding the pathway and making the right decisions can still be challenging. In this episode, Bryony and Nash take a detailed look at the girls’ rugby pathway, exploring the different routes available throughout the key development years and into the future. They discuss what selection may mean, what options remain if a player isn’t selected, and why long-term development must always remain the priority. The episode also provides practical advice for players who want to keep improving, respond positively to setbacks and make the most of every opportunity. A clear and honest guide for ambitious female players and the parents supporting them.

The development pathway can offer exciting opportunities—but it can also be confusing for young players and their parents. In this episode, Bryony and Nash take a deep dive into the boys’ rugby pathway and explore the different options available throughout the key development years and beyond. They discuss what selection may mean for a player’s future, what happens if selection doesn’t come, and why no single decision defines a young player’s potential. The episode also includes practical advice on responding to setbacks, continuing to develop and creating future opportunities. Essential listening for ambitious young players and the parents supporting their journey.

Episode 1: The ERA Story — Why We Started and Where We’re Going In the first episode of The ERA Podcast , Bryony and Nash share the story behind Elite Rugby Academy: how ERA began, what the early days were really like, and the ambition driving its future. They discuss why ERA was created, the problems they wanted to solve and what they have learned while building a development environment for ambitious young players. The conversation also explores the patterns they see in developing players today, including the challenges they face, the opportunities available to them and the difference between simply wanting to succeed and being prepared to do what elite sport demands. This episode covers: The origin story of ERA The realities of ERA’s early days What ERA is working to achieve Common trends among developing young players How players and parents can approach progression pathways The standards, behaviours and commitment required to pursue elite sport This is an honest introduction to ERA’s philosophy, its approach to player development and the purpose behind the podcast. For ambitious players, supportive parents and coaches committed to helping young people fulfil their potential.