In this episode of Beyond the Sport, we dive into how sports equipment and technology have evolved and the impact this is having on training methods, and the future of sport.

We reunite with some of our past guests to explore how changes in equipment have transformed their own sports, for better and for worse.

⚽ Francis Benali and Mike Phelan reflect on the evolution of football - from boots and balls to VAR, goal-line technology, and rule changes. We ask the big questions, like how many red cards would Francis have picked up if VAR was around in his day?

They unpack both sides of the coin:

✅ Player welfare improvements

✅ Safer heading protocols

✅ How tech is boosting the women’s game

❌ Controversial calls and moments lost to the past (yes, including that Mark Hughes goal that should have stood)

🏉 Greg Cropper shares how equipment is shaping touch rugby, from data-tracking tech to injury monitoring tools that help keep players safe and improve the game at grassroots level. We also cover smart mouthguards with sensors that record in-game impact — a breakthrough for rugby player safety.

🤸 Beth Tweddle reflects on gymnastics equipment advances - from safer training environments to updated floor structures and how these changes are prolonging careers and making the sport safer for the next generation.

🏓 Will Bayley talks about how equipment is making table tennis more accessible and engaging for fans, from enhanced playing conditions to personality-driven moments like walk-on music, nicknames, and merch that elevate players into sporting icons.

🏃 And there’s more — we discuss the rise of sensored tracks in athletics, digital performance analysis, and how tech is revolutionising everything from nutrition to recovery.

All told this video covers:

🎽 How equipment developments are changing sports performance and safety

📊 The rise of data-driven training and injury prevention tools

💪 How technology is improving opportunities in women’s sport

⚙️ The balance of tradition vs. technology in decision-making

🌍 How new equipment is making sport more accessible and entertaining for fans

It’s a fascinating look at how sport keeps evolving - and what the future might hold.

👉 Subscribe now and catch up on the full Beyond the Sport series.

#BeyondTheSport #SportsTech #AthleteWelfare #GrassrootsToGreatness

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This week, we sit down with a true footballing legend — Francis Benali. The dad of our very own Kenzi, Francis is a one-club man who dedicated 20 years to Southampton FC, making close to 400 appearances and earning cult hero status along the way. Now a respected broadcaster, keynote speaker, and tireless charity fundraiser, he’s raised an incredible £1.4 million for Cancer Research UK.

In this brilliant interview, Kenzi and Jim dive into Franny’s world — from his early days dreaming of being a footballer, inspired by school and a pivotal PE teacher, to breaking through the ranks of England School boys to Southampton FC. Where he shared the pitch with club legends like Matt Le Tissier, Jimmy Case, and Alan Shearer. Francis reflects on those formative years, the players who shaped his journey, and the unforgettable characters he encountered along the way.

The conversation also turns to the unforgettable characters he shared the pitch with — from Saints legends like Matt Le Tissier, Jimmy Case, and Alan Shearer, to facing off against icons such as Jürgen Klinsmann, Eric Cantona, and Ian Wright. He offers fascinating insights into what it was like to play alongside and against some of football’s biggest names.

Away from the pitch, Francis shares candid stories about his incredible charity work. From running a marathon every morning to cycling 75 miles a day, his relentless drive to raise money for Cancer Research UK earned him the nickname ‘Iron Fran’. He speaks honestly about the physical and emotional toll those challenges took, the strain on his family, and the unshakable sense of purpose that kept him moving forward through unimaginable pain.

Now, with football behind him, Francis talks about his current life — from punditry to motivational speaking, and how those platforms allow him to share his experiences and inspire others in business, education, and sport. He also discusses his new autobiography, the encouragement he received from friends to finally tell his story, and the surprising moment when even a UK Prime Minister publicly praised his book.

This is a heartfelt, inspiring conversation with a local hero and national treasure. Whether you’re a Saints fan, a football lover, or someone in need of motivation, this one’s for you.

Watch now — and be ready to be inspired by the unstoppable Francis Benali.

🌐 https://francisbenali.com

Explore more captivating sports conversations on our Sports Podcast:

www.daviessports.co.uk/sports-podcast

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What does it really take to reach Olympic gold? Join us for an inspiring conversation with British gymnastics legend, Beth Tweddle! We go deep into her incredible journey, uncovering the unwavering dedication, mental toughness, and sheer resilience that propelled her to the top. Beth shares exclusive behind-the-scenes stories from her Olympic experiences, offers invaluable advice for aspiring athletes, and reflects on the enduring legacy of her remarkable career. Whether you're a die-hard gymnastics fan or simply captivated by stories of human achievement, this is an episode you absolutely can't miss!

Inside this episode, you'll discover:

- Beth's personal account of her journey to Olympic glory.

- The untold stories behind the medals and the training.

- Her invaluable advice for young athletes striving for success.

- Reflections on the lasting impact of her career on British gymnastics.

- And much more!

Ready to be inspired? Hit that LIKE button, leave a COMMENT with your favourite Beth Tweddle moment, and SUBSCRIBE to Beyond the Sport for more incredible athlete stories! 🎥🏉

🌐 www.gymfinitykids.com

Explore more captivating sports conversations on our Sports Podcast: www.daviessports.co.uk/sports-podcast

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In this week’s brilliant episode, we sit down with Keegan Goss and Michael Green (aka Pickle) — and yes, he explains where that brilliant nickname comes from!

The lads open up about growing up in the Southern Hemisphere and reflect on their younger years back in New Zealand 🌿. They talk about the outdoor, carefree lifestyle, their first memories of picking up a rugby ball, and how being surrounded by sport shaped who they are today.

Pickle, who joined Nottingham in 2022, shares his journey since graduating in 2018 - from travelling the world 🌍 whilst chasing his rugby dreams, and what’s still to come as he hits 30 with no plans of slowing down.

Keegan also takes us through his own journey, playing in Ireland and Italy before arriving in Nottingham, and how rugby helped him. He even confesses to a short-lived cricket career at school before rugby stole his heart.

They both chat about:

School PE memories 🏏🏉

The importance of having great mentors growing up

The challenges of moving abroad for sport

Handling injuries and bouncing back

Their shared love of lawn bowls (because, why not? 😄)

Pickle talks about his Community Manager role and coaching in local schools and using touch rugby to inspire the next generation. Both players are passionate about showing kids the power of rugby — from teamwork to respect, on and off the pitch.

They even get into the meaning of the haka, how they learned it, and hint that we might just see a Pickle haka soon 👀🔥.

An honest, feel-good chat with two top blokes about life, rugby, and giving back. You don’t want to miss it.

Subscribe and stay tuned for more stories from Beyond the Sport! 🎥🏉

🌐 www.nottinghamrugby.co.uk/ - Nottingham Rugby

Check out our collection of Sports Podcast here: www.daviessports.co.uk/sports-podcast

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In this inspiring and down-to-earth interview, we sit down with Imogen Fowler – a rising star in women’s football ⚽🔥, currently playing for Chesterfield Ladies FC.

Imogen takes us back to where it all began – her primary school days, where her passion for football first took root. From playing with the boys at school and bonding over the love of the game, to dominating PE lessons and finding her footing across different sports like netball and badminton, her early years were packed with energy, competition, and a clear drive to stand out 💪.

She opens up about her journey from Derby County’s youth team (U18s) to making a bold move across the world at just 18, accepting a football scholarship in Illinois, USA 🇺🇸. Imogen shares what it was like arriving in the States, living and training as a student and athlete, along with navigating the big differences between UK and US football culture – especially when it comes to scholarships and training intensity.

From the highs of chasing her dream abroad to the challenges of COVID lockdown, she reflects on how the pandemic impacted both her education and her football career, and how she found the strength to push through, complete her studies, and return home to continue doing what she loves most.

Now back in England and playing for Chesterfield Ladies, Imogen’s ambition is laser-focused: become the league’s top goal scorer 🥅⚽ – all while balancing the demands of working at St George’s Park, the home of English football 🏟️.

This episode is packed with candid stories, real talk about women’s football, and a look at what it really takes to follow your dreams – on and off the pitch 🌟

A site for athletes endorsed by Imogen 🌐 www.p3rform.co.uk/

And for more Beyond the Sport podcasts check out all of them here 🌐 www.daviessports.co.uk/sports-podcast

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In this candid and inspiring interview, we dive deep into the incredible journey of Will Bayley – the world’s number 1 ranked Paralympic table tennis player 🏓✨

From being awarded an MBE in the 2016 New Year Honours to winning 7 Paralympic medals, Will shares stories that go far beyond the sporting arena. He opens up about his childhood, including how he became an Arsenal fan ❤️⚽ the real difference between ping pong and table tennis, and how sport became his outlet while growing up with a disability.

Will talks honestly about his early struggles, including being diagnosed with blood cancer at just 7 years old, undergoing multiple operations, and navigating school life while dealing with daily challenges. Through it all, his mum was his rock 💪 instilling in him a winning mindset and a relentless drive to succeed.

We follow his journey into table tennis – from his first serious training trip to Beijing, to reaching the Paralympic final in London 2012 in front of a roaring home crowd. He also shares what it was like competing in Rio, how passionate he gets with umpires (maybe a little too passionate), and the lessons he’s learned along the way.

Off the table, Will reflects on collecting his MBE and the cheeky antics of his brother at the Palace, meeting Prince William, and how surreal it all felt.

We also get a glimpse into his time on Strictly Come Dancing – only bowing out due to a leg injury, his unexpected love for dancing (despite the two left feet), and how past experiences have always driven him to push boundaries.

Today, Will is based in Brighton, coaching the next generation of table tennis talent, passing on the wisdom, energy, and fighting spirit that have defined his career.

This is a powerful story of resilience, mindset, family, sport, and never giving up – no matter what life throws at you 💯🔥

🌐 https://en.butterfly.tt/ - Will's table tennis shop

Check out our collection of Sports Podcast here: www.daviessports.co.uk/sports-podcast

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In this week's episode, we sit down with Gregg Cropper, better known as Mr Touch Rugby, to explore one of the fastest growing sports in the UK—touch rugby 🏉🔥

Gregg shares his journey over the last decade, from discovering the UK touch rugby scene to founding his own club and representing England 🇬🇧 at the highest level. We talk about where his passion comes from, what makes touch rugby so appealing, and how it offers something for everyone - from tactical gameplay to physical and mental health benefits 💪

Gregg breaks down how trials for the national team come about, what it’s like to play on the international stage 🌍, and what it means to be part of England’s touch rugby setup. He also gives a behind-the-scenes look at running his club in Manchester, his coaching work, and how his events company, On The 7 Events (www.onthesevenevents.com/

), is helping grow the sport through exciting, inclusive competitions 🎯🏟️

We also chat about:

Pitch sizes & team formats 📏

Men’s, women’s, and mixed games 👥

Rules of touch rugby vs. traditional rugby ⚖️

Tactical play & positioning 🎯

The sport’s global growth and future 🚀

Gregg reflects on his own sporting roots, the teachers who made an impact, and how school sports shaped his path. He talks about the challenges and rewards of building community-led events and bringing people together through sport 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

If you’re into sport, coaching, or just curious about the rise of touch rugby, this one’s for you!

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🏐 Alice Harvey: From Netball Dreams to International Success 🌟

In this week’s exclusive interview, we sit down with Alice Harvey, the 6'3" defensive powerhouse for Loughborough Lightning and a rising star in international netball. Since joining Lightning, Alice has played a key role in their historic first Netball Super League title, securing two championships in the last three seasons and a runners-up finish.

As a goalkeeper and goal defence, her height and defensive skills make her a dominant force on the court. With 9 caps for England, Alice shares insights into her journey from school sports to the international stage and her ambitions for more Roses appearances. She also opens up about her early experiences in judo and swimming, before netball became her passion.

💬 In this video, Alice discusses:

✅ Growing up tall and finding confidence through netball

✅ Life at Loughborough Lightning and the team's close-knit "family" culture

✅ The importance of fans and outreach programs in Loughborough

✅ The evolution of the Super League and the exciting new era for netball in the UK

✅ Playing on the international stage and learning from her idols

✅ Her dream of netball making it to the Olympics

✅ Balancing a netball career with real-life experiences - including an early job stint at McDonald's

✅ Her passion for growing the sport, and how the men’s game can help

As a proud Shoshin ambassador

🌐 www.shoshin-sports.com

🏐 www.lboro.ac.uk/lightning/netball

Alice is committed to making netball more accessible to all. She also shares advice for aspiring players, proving that with dedication, confidence, and the right mindset, anyone can achieve their sporting dreams.

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