
From Club Footy to the Wallabies: Connal McInerney's Journey to International Rugby
04/28/24 • 66 min
1 Listener
About the Guest:
Connal McInerney is a professional rugby player, widely recognized within the rugby community for his dedication and skills on the field. Having played for the Brumbies and holding the title of Wallaby number 947, McInerney's career has been marked by his evolution from club rugby to the international stage. Known for his commitment to the sport and his journey through various rugby leagues, McInerney's personal narrative is a testament to his hard work and passion for rugby.
Episode Summary:
In this captivating episode of the Give 'em Rugby podcast, host Liam McGrath sits down with the inspiring Connal McInerney, a true embodiment of relentless dedication to rugby. Listeners get a front-row seat to McInerney's profound journey from his grassroots beginnings to flourishing as a Wallaby.
The conversation unfolds with a heartfelt recount of McInerney's earliest rugby memories and the pivotal moments that sculpted his career trajectory. The episode peels back the layers on his remarkable transition from facing setbacks and hurdling obstacles to grasping the opportunity to don the esteemed Wallabies jersey. His tales of resilience offer an intimate look into the life of a professional athlete maneuvering the ebbs and flows of competitive sport.
Key themes revolve around the significance of formative experiences in McInerney's growth, the nuanced perspectives on rugby's cultural impact, and the influence of strategic decisions in shaping one's athletic path. Filled with insightful anecdotes and McInerney's personal wisdom, this episode promises to leave its audience both informed and inspired.
Key Takeaways:
- Connell McInerney's journey from local club rugby to playing for the Wallabies embodies perseverance in professional sports.
- The importance of facing adversity with resilience is highlighted by McInerney's response to being initially overlooked for a development contract.
- Insights into McInerney's evolution as a player and how critical conversations and rejections became turning points in his career.
- The emotional and proud moment of being called up for the Wallabies and the experiences of representing Australia on the international stage.
- Reflection on the impactful mentors and pivotal decisions that helped shape McInerney's career trajectory, illustrating the power of opportunity and preparation in sports.
Notable Quotes:
- "I remember going for a job interview... But then he [the interviewer] knocked me back and that was the best thing to happen because I just picked up uni and did part-time and just did a little bit just to say I'm doing something, you know, and then I was able to put the time into rugby." - Connell McInerney
- "Yeah, that year I kind of played. Played at east train. Sorry, I trained to Thursday with Brahms and then I'd go and play for east and it was like one of the best years of my life because like I'm having... It's like a split life." - Connell McInerney
- "...and I wasn't ready enough to take chick's position. And club captain... But legend and like. And he never showed any ego around me or anything, you know, he was... Yeah, he was always... He kind of would give off the energy that, you know, I'm only here for a year or two more and then you... Then you'll jump." - Connell McInerney
- "I didn't make my school team. And we're not even a rugby school. Like we're not like you, darlin Marist... This was for a one-off comp." - Connell McInerney, on an unexpected setback in his early rugby experiences.
- "They just gave me a call out of nowhere. And it was before our first trial. Game against swinger." - Connell McInerney, reflecting on the surprise of being called to play for the Brumbies.
Resources:
- Social media @giveemrugby
- Give 'em Rugby club
- www.cardtradr.com
- www.thecover.com
- Asics
Dive deep into the full episode to unpack Connell McInerney's compelling rugby narrative, and get ready for more enriching and introspective conversations on the Given Rugby podcast.
★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★About the Guest:
Connal McInerney is a professional rugby player, widely recognized within the rugby community for his dedication and skills on the field. Having played for the Brumbies and holding the title of Wallaby number 947, McInerney's career has been marked by his evolution from club rugby to the international stage. Known for his commitment to the sport and his journey through various rugby leagues, McInerney's personal narrative is a testament to his hard work and passion for rugby.
Episode Summary:
In this captivating episode of the Give 'em Rugby podcast, host Liam McGrath sits down with the inspiring Connal McInerney, a true embodiment of relentless dedication to rugby. Listeners get a front-row seat to McInerney's profound journey from his grassroots beginnings to flourishing as a Wallaby.
The conversation unfolds with a heartfelt recount of McInerney's earliest rugby memories and the pivotal moments that sculpted his career trajectory. The episode peels back the layers on his remarkable transition from facing setbacks and hurdling obstacles to grasping the opportunity to don the esteemed Wallabies jersey. His tales of resilience offer an intimate look into the life of a professional athlete maneuvering the ebbs and flows of competitive sport.
Key themes revolve around the significance of formative experiences in McInerney's growth, the nuanced perspectives on rugby's cultural impact, and the influence of strategic decisions in shaping one's athletic path. Filled with insightful anecdotes and McInerney's personal wisdom, this episode promises to leave its audience both informed and inspired.
Key Takeaways:
- Connell McInerney's journey from local club rugby to playing for the Wallabies embodies perseverance in professional sports.
- The importance of facing adversity with resilience is highlighted by McInerney's response to being initially overlooked for a development contract.
- Insights into McInerney's evolution as a player and how critical conversations and rejections became turning points in his career.
- The emotional and proud moment of being called up for the Wallabies and the experiences of representing Australia on the international stage.
- Reflection on the impactful mentors and pivotal decisions that helped shape McInerney's career trajectory, illustrating the power of opportunity and preparation in sports.
Notable Quotes:
- "I remember going for a job interview... But then he [the interviewer] knocked me back and that was the best thing to happen because I just picked up uni and did part-time and just did a little bit just to say I'm doing something, you know, and then I was able to put the time into rugby." - Connell McInerney
- "Yeah, that year I kind of played. Played at east train. Sorry, I trained to Thursday with Brahms and then I'd go and play for east and it was like one of the best years of my life because like I'm having... It's like a split life." - Connell McInerney
- "...and I wasn't ready enough to take chick's position. And club captain... But legend and like. And he never showed any ego around me or anything, you know, he was... Yeah, he was always... He kind of would give off the energy that, you know, I'm only here for a year or two more and then you... Then you'll jump." - Connell McInerney
- "I didn't make my school team. And we're not even a rugby school. Like we're not like you, darlin Marist... This was for a one-off comp." - Connell McInerney, on an unexpected setback in his early rugby experiences.
- "They just gave me a call out of nowhere. And it was before our first trial. Game against swinger." - Connell McInerney, reflecting on the surprise of being called to play for the Brumbies.
Resources:
- Social media @giveemrugby
- Give 'em Rugby club
- www.cardtradr.com
- www.thecover.com
- Asics
Dive deep into the full episode to unpack Connell McInerney's compelling rugby narrative, and get ready for more enriching and introspective conversations on the Given Rugby podcast.
★ Support this podcast on Patreon ★Previous Episode

Micheal Hooper, Paddy Pimblet and Fishing Stories with Bob Gonzalez
In the final episode for season 1 of Give 'em Liam.
Liam gives a shoutout to Paddy Pimblett and Michael Hooper for bringing men's mental health into the limelight. Liam also shares his battles with mental health for the first time on the podcast.
Then he looks at the Wallabies and makes an interesting observation about the All Blacks.
Finally, Liam catches up with Bob Gonzalez, author of Flicker in the Water.
Next Episode

From the Farm to the Field: Ryan Lonergan's Journey to Rugby Success
About the Guest:
Ryan Lonergan is an Australian professional rugby union player, currently captaining the Canberra-based Brumbies in Super Rugby. Not only has he captained at club level, but he has also led the Australia A team, showcasing his leadership qualities on and off the pitch. His position as scrum-half enables him to orchestrate the game with precision, and he's known for his swift passing and tactical acumen. His commitment to the sport, competitive nature, and ability to connect with his teammates have made him a respected figure in the rugby community.
Episode Summary:
In this riveting episode of the Give 'em Rugby Podcast, host Liam sits down with Brumbies captain and scrum-half, Ryan Lonergan. The conversation offers a glimpse into the personal and professional life of a professional rugby player, highlighting the challenges and triumphs that come with the sport. From the serenity of farm life to the intensity of the rugby pitch, Lonergan delivers intriguing insights into what drives him both on and off the field.
The episode starts with a discussion about growing up on a family farm and its impact on Lonergan’s work ethic and perspective towards rugby. The duo delves into the dynamics of team sports, covering the significant role camaraderie and competitive spirit play in Lonergan’s love for rugby. They also touch upon technical skills vital for rugby positions, with Lonergan sharing stories from both his early career and recent endeavours on the Barbarians tour. The episode wraps up with reflections on the evolution of rugby, the strategic nature of the box kick, and the importance of game IQ in modern rugby.
For anyone looking to delve deeper into the nuances of rugby and gain personal insight from one of Rugby's top young players, this episode with Ryan Lonergan is a must-listen. Be sure to listen to the full conversation for an in-depth exploration of rugby's evolving landscape and stay tuned for more from the Give 'em Rugby Podcast.
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