The Missing Skill Holding You Back | Rugby IQ Explained with Real Game Examples
SummaryIn this episode of the Lessons from the Game podcast, Gurthro Steenkamp and Ben Pegna delve into the concept of Rugby IQ, emphasizing its significance in player performance and team dynamics. They discuss how understanding one's role, making informed decisions, and adapting to game situations are crucial for success on the field. The hosts share real-world examples of players demonstrating high Rugby IQ and provide insights on how players can develop this skill through observation, curiosity, and active participation in discussions. The conversation highlights the benefits of a high Rugby IQ, including reduced errors, improved decision-making, and enhanced overall performance.TakeawaysRugby IQ is about knowing your role and understanding the game.Players often struggle with decision-making during games.Physical attributes are important, but Rugby IQ is crucial.Rugby IQ helps reduce errors and improve performance.Understanding the game allows for better team contributions.Players should watch games intentionally to develop Rugby IQ.Curiosity and asking questions are key to learning.Real-world examples illustrate the importance of Rugby IQ.Coaches should also develop their Rugby IQ to guide players effectively.Being a student of the game is essential for growth. Chapters00:00 Introduction to Rugby IQ05:57 The Importance of Rugby IQ19:31 Conclusion and Key TakeawaysIf you're a rugby player, coach, or front-rower looking to improve your game and gain insights from one of the best, this episode is a must-watch! 🎙️🔥🔔 Don’t forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE & TURN ON NOTIFICATIONS for more rugby insights from top players & coaches!📲 Follow us for more rugby content:📩 Join Coach G’s Free Community - https://thescrumdominatormindset.mykajabi.com/offers/JNLUYzpiFollow us on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lessonsfromthegamepodcastFollow Coach G on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ggsteenkampFollow Ben on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/benpegna
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22:57
Inside the Lions: Geoff Parling on Playing for Them—and Now Coaching Against Them
SummaryIn this episode of Lessons from the Game, Gurthro Steenkamp and Ben Pegna engage with former England international Jeff Parling, exploring his journey from player to coach. They discuss the importance of preparation for opportunities, the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the significance of resilience in rugby. Jeff shares insights on team culture, the impact of the Lions Tour, and the necessity of maintaining a balance between work and family life. The conversation emphasises the value of curiosity, humour, and being a good person in the rugby community.📩 Join Coach G’s Free Community - https://thescrumdominatormindset.mykajabi.com/offers/JNLUYzpiSummaryIn this episode of Lessons from the Game, Gurthro Steenkamp and Ben P engage with former England international Jeff Parling, exploring his journey from player to coach. They discuss the importance of preparation for opportunities, the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the significance of resilience in rugby. Jeff shares insights on team culture, the impact of the Lions Tour, and the necessity of maintaining a balance between work and family life. The conversation emphasizes the value of curiosity, humor, and being a good person in the rugby community.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Guest Background02:08 Lessons from the Game03:11 Transformation of the Wallaby Team05:55 Transitioning from Player to Coach08:25 Challenges of Coaching During COVID10:34 Experiences of the Lions Tour12:15 Creating Team Cohesion14:52 Adventures Abroad: Japan and Australia18:19 Family Support and Adaptation20:35 Resilience in Tough Times21:35 Overcoming Injuries and Setbacks24:45 Support Networks in Recovery29:44 Taking Ownership of Your Career31:33 The Importance of Analysis in Rugby33:49 The Importance of Scanning and Awareness in Rugby35:22 Developing Leadership and Game Understanding37:29 The Role of Coaching in Player Development39:13 Curiosity and Continuous Learning for Coaches42:05 The Balance of Humor and Seriousness in Team Dynamics48:59 Creating a Positive Team Environment52:14 Managing Mental Load as a Coach58:20 Life Lessons from RugbyIf you're a rugby player, coach, or front-rower looking to improve your game and gain insights from one of the best, this episode is a must-watch! 🎙️🔥🔔 Don’t forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE & TURN ON NOTIFICATIONS for more rugby insights from top players & coaches!📲 Follow us for more rugby content:Follow us on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lessonsfromthegamepodcastFollow Coach G on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ggsteenkampFollow Ben on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/benpegna
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59:46
Bulls Culture, Blue Blood, and Belief - Lessons From Victor Matfield
SummaryIn this episode of the Lessons from the Game podcast, Gurthro Steenkamp and Ben Pegna reflect on their conversation with rugby legend Victor Matfield. They discuss key insights from Matfield about leadership, self-awareness, and the importance of resilience in both sports and life. The hosts emphasize the value of small wins in building confidence and the significance of surrounding oneself with the right people. They also touch on the rigorous training methods used by Matfield and his team, known as 'blue blood' training, which fostered mental and physical resilience. The episode concludes with heartfelt feedback from listeners, highlighting the podcast's impact on their lives.TakeawaysVictor Matfield emphasizes the importance of self-awareness in leadership.Building resilience through challenges is crucial for success.Small wins contribute significantly to building confidence.Surrounding yourself with the right people is essential for growth.The concept of 'blue blood' training fosters mental toughness.Leadership is about understanding and empathizing with teammates.Belief in a shared vision drives team performance.Life can change unexpectedly, so appreciate what you have.Navigating ego is important in maintaining relationships.Feedback from listeners shows the podcast's positive impact. Chapters00:00 Introduction and Acknowledgment05:49 The Importance of Emotional Intelligence12:07 The Role of Small Wins17:00 The Blue Blood Training Philosophy29:22 Connecting Through the PodcastIf you're a rugby player, coach, or front-rower looking to improve your game and gain insights from one of the best, this episode is a must-watch! 🎙️🔥🔔 Don’t forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE & TURN ON NOTIFICATIONS for more rugby insights from top players & coaches!📲 Follow us for more rugby content:📩 Join Coach G’s Free Community - https://thescrumdominatormindset.mykajabi.com/offers/JNLUYzpiFollow us on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lessonsfromthegamepodcastFollow Coach G on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ggsteenkampFollow Ben on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/benpegna
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31:46
Victor Matfield: How We Built the Greatest Rugby Team in the World
SummaryIn this episode of the Lessons from the Game podcast, Gurthro Steenkamp and Ben P engage in a deep conversation with rugby legend Victor Matfield. They explore Matfield's journey from a young aspiring player to a key figure in South African rugby, discussing the importance of leadership, belief, and hard work in achieving success. Matfield shares insights on building a winning culture at the Bulls, mastering line-out tactics, and the significance of teamwork. He reflects on his experiences with Heineke Meyer, the challenges of transitioning to life after rugby, and the lessons learned along the way.TakeawaysVictor Matfield emphasizes the importance of belief in achieving success.Hard work and dedication are crucial for any aspiring athlete.Leadership involves understanding and motivating each team member individually.Building a strong team culture is essential for long-term success.Matfield's journey highlights the value of resilience in overcoming setbacks.The evolution of line-out tactics reflects the need for adaptability in rugby.Personal growth often comes from learning to prioritize the team over individual desires.Matfield's experiences illustrate the significance of mentorship in sports.Transitioning to life after rugby requires a willingness to learn and adapt.Family and personal life should be balanced with professional ambitions.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Rugby Greatness02:09 The Bulls Dynasty and 2007 Super Rugby Victory07:45 Belief and Hard Work in Team Success11:28 Heyneke's Leadership and Storytelling15:31 Dreaming Big and Building a Winning Culture19:16 Lessons from Rugby to Business23:13 Mastering the Line-Out: Victor's Philosophy30:44 The Evolution of Line-Out Strategies35:24 Scrum Battles and Team Dynamics39:16 Injuries and Personal Growth43:43 Leadership Lessons and Team Culture46:51 Transitioning from Player to Coach51:35 Life After Rugby: Business Ventures and Family59:53 The Journey to Becoming a Springbok01:06:26 Key Life Lessons from Rugby🔔 Don’t forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE & TURN ON NOTIFICATIONS for more rugby insights from top players & coaches!📲 Follow us for more rugby content:📩 Join Coach G’s Free Community - https://thescrumdominatormindset.mykajabi.com/offers/JNLUYzpiFollow us on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lessonsfromthegamepodcastFollow Coach G on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ggsteenkampFollow Ben on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/benpegna
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1:07:38
The Pain of Non-Selection – And What Champions Do Next
Being dropped from the team hurts. Whether you’re a pro or an aspiring athlete, non-selection can shake your confidence and identity.In this episode of Lessons from the Game, Rugby World Cup winner Gurthro Steenkamp and high-performance coach Ben Pegna open up about the emotional side of not being picked — and what sets champions apart in how they respond.They share powerful personal stories, lessons from coaching at the top level, and mindset tools for bouncing back stronger.✅ In this episode:What to do immediately after not being selectedThe emotional toll of being dropped — and how to deal with itHow to stay ready for your next opportunityWhy coaches don’t always pick “the best” playerBuilding resilience when things don’t go your wayThis isn’t just a rugby story — it’s a conversation about self-awareness, growth, and rising through disappointment.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Team Selection and Disappointment02:41 The Emotional Impact of Non-Selection09:24 Dealing with Disappointment: Personal Experiences13:11 Understanding the Coach's Perspective18:54 Staying Ready for Opportunities23:50 The Role of Social Media in Modern Rugby27:19 Reflections on the Podcast Journey🔔 Don’t forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE & TURN ON NOTIFICATIONS for more rugby insights from top players & coaches!📲 Follow us for more rugby content:📩 Join Coach G’s Free Community - https://thescrumdominatormindset.mykajabi.com/offers/JNLUYzpiFollow us on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lessonsfromthegamepodcastFollow Coach G on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ggsteenkampFollow Ben on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/benpegna
Lessons From The Game Podcast
Hosted by Gurthro Steenkamp and Ben Pegna, this podcast dives into performance, mindset, and resilience. With insights from athletes, coaches, and leaders, we explore the lessons rugby teaches about success—both on and off the field.
🎙 COMING SOON 20 FEBRUARY
Perfect for rugby enthusiasts, coaches, and anyone seeking inspiration to elevate their game and life.
New Zealand