{"href":"https://api.simplecast.com/oembed?url=https%3A%2F%2Fthe-rugby-norcal-podcast.simplecast.com%2Fepisodes%2Fbrendo-Y4MRFSMJ","width":444,"version":"1.0","type":"rich","title":"Brendan O'Meara - Anthem Rugby MLR","thumbnail_width":300,"thumbnail_url":"https://image.simplecastcdn.com/images/dc0bf27c-409e-4d1e-9c3d-be80c45f3ec3/0b834c58-5f5d-4f53-923f-6d8d50a23318/rnc-logo.jpg","thumbnail_height":300,"provider_url":"https://simplecast.com","provider_name":"Simplecast","html":"","height":200,"description":"In this episode of the Rugby NorCal Podcast, Nate Dalena sits down with Brendan “Brendo” O’Meara to discuss his journey from Northern California rugby to coaching in Major League Rugby. Brendo shares how his early experiences with San Francisco Golden Gate and Saint Mary’s College shaped his understanding of the game and ultimately led him into the professional coaching ranks.\n\nThe conversation covers the influence of mentors like Tim O’Brien, the importance of rugby culture and alumni networks, and the long path from volunteer coaching to the professional level. Brendo also explains what he has learned from coaching in different environments, including MLR and Super Rugby Americas, and how those experiences shaped his approach to player development.\n\nBrendo breaks down what he believes American players need most to succeed: strong core skills, high rugby IQ, and the ability to be a “triple threat” with the ball. He also gives listeners a look inside the weekly preparation cycle of an MLR team and discusses the current landscape of professional rugby in the United States.\n\nThe episode finishes with a conversation about the future of MLR, the role of the Anthem team in developing American players, and why the rugby community must actively support the professional game in the United States."}