News

Launch of the TYF Podcast

Rugby Players Ireland in partnership with Zurich and the Z Zurich foundation are launching their new ‘Tackle Your Feelings Podcast’ alongside two of their Podcast guests; Irish international rugby players, James Lowe and Laura Feely.  

Comprising of seven episodes, the ‘Tackle Your Feelings Podcast’ encourages listeners to rethink their approach to positive mental well-being by hearing from some of Ireland’s best-known rugby players who will share their methods of maintaining strong, positive mental health. Listeners can expect to hear a range of insights, including tips for managing stress, coping with setbacks and injury, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. 

Hosted by Dr. Hannah McCormack, TYF campaign manager, the podcast series features a range of guests including interviews with current and former international rugby stars from across the provinces such as Andrew Trimble, Joey Carbery and Eimear Considine, each sharing their personal insights into taking control of their own mental health whilst balancing the demands of elite sport.  People can watch the ‘Tackle Your Feelings Podcast’ trailer here – Tackle Your Feelings Podcast Trailer 

Mandatory Credit ©INPHO/Tom Maher

The first episode of the ‘Tackle Your Feelings Podcast’ features Irish international rugby players Hannah O’Connor and Laura Feely who speak openly about their rugby careers to date, sharing the various challenges and setbacks that have shaped their journey and relationship with their own mental health. Episode 2 sees former Ulster Rugby and Ireland star, Andrew Trimble discuss how the pursuit of perfection can carry many pitfalls. In Episode 3 released later this week, in-form Irish Rugby star James Lowe opens up about his experiences in dealing with challenges on and off the rugby field throughout his career.  

Released every Thursday, the Podcast is available to listen across all platforms or can be watched on the Tackle Your Feelings YouTube Channel. To listen to the first two episodes, click here – Tackle Your Feelings Episode 1 and 2 

Speaking about the launch of the Tackle Your Feelings Podcast, Ireland and Leinster Rugby Player and Tackle Your Feelings ambassador, James Lowe, said: “I’m thrilled to be part of the new Tackle Your Feelings podcast and lend my support to helping raise awareness of positive mental health well-being in Ireland. As players, we often face a lot of pressure on and off the pitch, so I believe it is important to have these open conversations about the strategies we use to stay mentally fit. I hope by sharing our stories to a wider audience, we can help others who may be struggling and let them know that they are not alone and there are useful tools out there to help them.” 

Also speaking at the launch, Ireland and Connacht player Laura Feely commented: “I’m really excited to be a part of the Tackle Your Feelings podcast and to be able to share my experiences with my mental health alongside my good friend Hannah O’Connor. For us, the podcast represents a vehicle for an open conversation; a safe space to speak and listen to the various experiences and journeys that rugby players across Ireland have had. By having these open and honest discussions, we can continue to work together to break down the stigma surrounding mental health and help others to start taking control of their own mental well-being.” 

Anthony Brennan, CEO of Zurich Ireland said: “We, in Zurich, are thrilled to launch the new Tackle Your Feelings Podcast to the public. Across the series, the podcast aligns with our ambition to promote mental wellness and resilience, encouraging open conversations around mental health in rugby and beyond. By sharing their experiences, the Tackle Your Feelings ambassadors can support others in prioritising their feelings and seeking support from positive influences in their own support networks. We want listeners to reflect on the stories featured on the podcast and use these as inspiration when they’re not feeling ok. We are proud to be part of this important conversation and exploring ways for our message to reach and engage with new audiences.” 

Tackle Your Feelings Campaign Manager at RPI, Grainne Finnegan, said: “We are delighted to launch the new Tackle Your Feelings podcast alongside our TYF ambassadors James Lowe and Laura Feely. The podcast marks a significant milestone in our campaign to promote openness and emotional resilience to everyone, by leveraging the collective influence of Ireland’s rugby players. By sharing these thought-provoking and often unknown stories, insights, and practical strategies, we aim to empower individuals to take control and learn more about the many facets of mental health. Through new perspectives and compassionate honesty, we have the opportunity to create a more resilient and empowered society. So be sure to tune in and join us on this journey of self-discovery and growth as we tackle our feelings together.” 

The launch of the podcast is part of Rugby Players Ireland’s commitment to promoting positive discussions around mental health, breaking down the stigma surrounding taking control and finding ways to manage mental well-being positively. TYF has motivated people across Ireland to be more proactive when it comes to looking after their mental well-being and has increased awareness around the importance of taking care of your mental health. TYF has also reached international audiences and has inspired similar campaigns across the globe, including; The English Rugby Players’ Association (RPA), ‘Lift the Weight’ campaign, New Zealand Rugby’s ‘HeadFirst’ campaign and Tackle Your Feelings Australia, a collaboration between Zurich Australia, the AFLPA and AFLCA. 

For more information on the Tackle Your Feelings podcast, visit Spotify or follow the Instagram account @tyf, the Tackle Your Feelings YouTube Channel or visit the website www.tackleyourfeelings.com which will share videos, updates on events and competitions.