EP10: The Rugby T - Chasing The Pro Dream Through Social Media, Tiarnan Neville

Tiarnan Neville — better known as The Rugby T — has one of the most international rugby journeys you’ll come across. Growing up playing rugby in Hong Kong, before moving through Ireland, England, and Canada, Tiarnan has experienced the game across multiple cultures, systems, and levels — all while chasing the ultimate goal of earning a professional contract.

In this episode, Tiarnan breaks down how his upbringing in Hong Kong shaped his approach to the game, the realities of transitioning into UK university rugby, and what the current rugby landscape looks like in Canada. We talk openly about the pressures of playing fly-half, dealing with injuries, and the role good coaching and strong community play in developing players at every level.

We also dive into how Tiarnan has used social media to build a personal brand alongside his playing career — sharing the positives, the challenges, and the realities of putting yourself out there in modern rugby. From online criticism to creating opportunities through content, this episode gives a real insight into how the game is evolving both on and off the field.

If you’re interested in playing rugby around the world, building a personal brand as a player, or understanding where the modern game is heading, this one’s well worth a listen.