Welcome to This Sporting Planet, your definitive source for 'The World's View of Sport'. 🌍🎙️

In this episode, our hosts Natalie Sawyer (UK), Edward Russell (Singapore), and Todd Harris (USA) celebrate England's Rugby World Cup victory and dive into the growing global phenomenon of women's sport.

We are joined by exclusive guest and World Cup winner Abbie Ward to go inside the victorious Red Roses' camp and discuss the key to their team culture.

Rugby World Cup Champions: We celebrate the Red Roses' victory over Canada at a sold-out Twickenham. World Cup winner Abbie Ward shares the secret to the team's close bond and why supporting mothers in sport is vital.

The Growth of Women's Sport: A discussion on the acceleration of women's sport globally, particularly the success seen in Europe (England's Euro and Rugby World Cup wins) and the USA (WNBA, new leagues).

Legacy Building: We explore the challenges of sustaining growth in domestic leagues and highlight the positive impact female athletes are having as role models for the next generation.

Behind the Scenes: Abbie Ward discusses the non-traditional support within the England rugby squad, such as teammates watching her daughter during training, and the importance of maternity and working parent policies.

00:00 - Intro & Global Sporting Highlights 

01:24 - Todd reflects on the Ryder Cup and MLB Playoffs 

02:42 - Edward reviews the F1 Singapore Grand Prix 

03:44 - Natalie celebrates England's World Cup qualification and Hull FC's treble 

06:05 - The Women's Sport Phenomenon: A Unique Period of Growth 

09:18 - Abby Ward on winning the Rugby World Cup 

14:24 - Juggling motherhood and professional rugby 

21:15 - Being a role model and legacy building

25:31 - Reflections on the World Cup Win 

27:18 - Canada's Crowdfunding Story 

28:51 - Investment and Growth in US Women's Sport 

31:51 - Women in Sport in Asia 

32:46 - Coming up next time!

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