Episode 4 - The Si Pickett Interview - Purple Cobras, Epilepsy Awareness, and is Welsh Rugby Dead?

Rugby Through The Leagues Podcast

Si Pickett, creator of the Purple Cobra 7s team, discusses his rugby journey and the development of sevens rugby. He shares his experience playing with talented players who went on to make it in professional rugby, as well as those who didn't but should have. Si also talks about the growth of Havant RFC and the success of the Purple Cobras as a charity sevens team. The conversation covers various topics related to epilepsy and sevens rugby. Si discusses different types of seizures and the importance of spreading awareness and providing first aid for epilepsy. He also talks about the purple Cobras sevens team and their upcoming tournaments. The conversation then shifts to the role of sevens rugby in the overall rugby landscape. Simon shares his thoughts on whether sevens can be the saviour of rugby and the need for more characters and innovation in the sport. The discussion concludes with a conversation about the potential for private investment and franchise systems in sevens rugby. The conversation covers various topics related to the future of rugby, including the need for flexibility and adaptation, the potential benefits of scheduling games on weekdays, the importance of marketing and accessibility, the challenges faced by clubs in terms of geographical spread and financial stability, the impact of closed leagues and the lack of promotion and relegation, the potential for a cup competition involving lower-tier teams, the issues with the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) and its disconnect with regional teams and grassroots rugby, the potential decline of Welsh rugby, the inclusion of South African teams in the United Rugby Championship (URC), the lack of development opportunities in Wales, the need for a Wales A team, and the importance of player development and retention.