The Odd Shaped Balls Podcast : Episode 9 - Make It Make Sense

Hey there! After a week off, we're back and ready to dive into the chaos of rugby league with a fresh episode of the "The Odd Shaped Balls Podcast." We missed you, but boy, did we need that break! The gang are back, and we're gearing up for a jam-packed session. We've got notes that could rival an encyclopedia, although, let's be real, some of it might be the ramblings of a madman!
This week, we're tackling the big news that's been brewing, from the IMG special to the latest on the rugby league scene. We'll chat about the RFL's 12-year contract with IMG, what it means for the game, and the grading system that's shaking things up. Expect some passionate rants and a fair share of banter as we dive into the details of how these changes might affect our beloved Cumbrian clubs.
We've got stories from the field and a peek into the mix of reactions this news has sparked. Plus, we'll share some laughs about the antics at the recent IMG announcement, including Jordan's queasy encounter at the Etihad campus. And of course, no episode is complete without a nod to our main podcast sponsors, Santa Marina, takeaway and Deli. Stick around as we catch up on a week's worth of banter and keep you entertained with our unique blend of rugby league madness.
So, grab your favourite beverage, settle in, and let's get this rugby league party started. It's going to be a wild ride, and we're thrilled to have you along for the journey!

The Odd Shaped Balls Podcast : Episode 8 - That Thing Mario Went Down

Hey there! Welcome back to another lively episode where the band is finally back together! It's been a hot minute since we've all been on together, but trust us, this reunion is worth the wait. I'm Andy Thompson, and joining me in the banter is Dan Payne, Becca Thompson, and fresh off his holiday, Jordan Weir. We're diving into all things rugby with a pinch of fun and a lot of heart.
Now, for our feature presentation – a deep dive into the Barrow Raiders Ladies' season with Barrow Ladies Vice Captain Emily Stirzaker! She’s giving us the lowdown on their journey, the highs, the lows, and everything in between. From the thrill of playing at legendary stadiums to the camaraderie and challenges of the season, Emily shares it all. Plus, we’ve got a special goodbye message from Sam Norman and Emma Hutchinson, who are off on a European adventure!
We’ve also got our usual dose of trivia and the hilariously infamous Kangaroo Court, where we call out the cheekiest moments in rugby. And don't miss our chat about the potential for a Cumbria team to take on the Aussies – it’s a debate you won’t want to miss!
So grab your favorite drink, get comfy, and join us for a rugby-filled rollercoaster of an episode. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just here for the laughs, we've got something for everyone. Enjoy the show!

The Odd Shaped Balls Podcast : Episode 7 - I Thought His Name Was Ass

Hi there, rugby fans! Whether it's morning, noon, or night, we're thrilled to welcome you to the Odd Shaped Balls podcast! Your host, Andy Thompson, is here, joined by Becca Thompson and Dan Payne from BBC Cumbria. Get ready for a lively chat about all things rugby, sprinkled with some good-natured banter and a few surprises along the way!
This episode kicks off with some unexpected musical mishaps and a good chuckle at the expense of an AI-generated theme song. But don't worry, we won't subject you to the full version—it's as cheesy as it gets! We quickly dive into the heart of the discussion: the highs and lows of the Barrow Raiders' season. From their stellar home record to the challenges faced on the road, we've got all the juicy details.
Join us as we reminisce about memorable matches, including nail-biting victories and frustrating losses. We also take a moment to appreciate the local talent that makes up the backbone of Barrow's team and discuss the importance of nurturing homegrown players. Plus, we can't resist a bit of friendly ribbing aimed at our Cumbrian rivals, especially when it comes to the Kings of Cumbria title.
As always, we've got some laughs, a few rants, and a healthy dose of Cumbrian pride. Whether you're a die-hard rugby fan or just here for the banter, we promise you'll feel right at home. So grab a cuppa, settle in, and enjoy the ride with the Odd Shaped Balls crew!
Don't forget to join the conversation by reaching out to us via email or social media—we'd love to hear your thoughts on the season and any kangaroo court nominations you might have!

The Odd Shaped Balls Podcast : Episode 6 - They've Ruined Tina Turner

Hi All! 🎶 Welcome back to another snazzy episode of the Odd Shaped Balls podcast! Today, we've got a jam-packed session with the one and only Andy Thompson, alongside our favourite voices from BBC Cumbria, Jordan Weir, and Dan Payne. Together, we dive into the rollercoaster ride that is the world of rugby league in Cumbria.
First up, we kick things off with a big shoutout to our amazing sponsors, Santa Marina and Lee McCauley Photography. These folks keep our wheels turning and our bellies full of the best Italian sandwiches in all of Cumbria! 🍝📸
Now, let's talk rugby! 🏉 We're down a podcaster this week as Becca has work commitments, but that won't stop us from diving deep into the latest news, including Whitehaven's signing spree and the West Cumbrian rumour mill that's buzzing louder than ever.
In our heart-to-heart with Jonty, we explore the highs and lows of Whitehaven's season. From promising starts to unexpected challenges, Johnny shares his insights on what it takes to steer a team through tough times. We also touch on the emotional moments and the resilience of players like Jake Maizen and Jamie Doran.
And of course, we can't forget our newest segment, Kangaroo Court! 🦘 We're calling out Castleford for their latest coaching shakeup and giving Toulouse a gentle nudge for their playoff performance. It's all in good fun, but we're not holding back!
Lastly, we're super excited to introduce SpeakPipe to our podcast family! 🎤 It's your chance to jump in and have your say. Head over to our website, leave us a voice note, and you might just hear yourself on the next episode!
So grab your headphones, settle in, and let's chat all things rugby league. We promise it's going to be a ride full of laughs, insights, and maybe a few cheeky digs. 😉

The Odd Shaped Balls Podcast : Episode 5 - A Balls Page?

Welcome to the "Odd Shaped Balls" podcast, your ultimate Cumbrian rugby companion, hosted by the ever-charismatic Andy Thompson. This week, we're joined by BBC Cumbria's finest: Jordan Weir, the ever-enthusiastic Becca Thompson, and the cheeky returnee from the naughty step, Dan Payne. Trust us, it's a line up you don't want to miss!
In this episode, we're diving headfirst into the world of Cumbrian rugby, with our usual mix of banter, insights, and a sprinkle of chaos. We kick things off with a shoutout to our beloved sponsor, Santa Marina Deli and Takeaway, the home of the best Italian pizzas, courtesy of the top dough tosser himself, Dan. And yes, we're still waiting for those pizzas to arrive!
Get ready for some rugby news, as Becca attempts to jingle us into the latest updates, including new signings at Barra, a special evening with Alex Walmsley in support of James Newton. We've got our eyes on the latest kit supplier for Whitehaven, and let's just say, the spelling might be as confusing as some of our tangents!
Join us as we take a deep dive into Workington Town's rollercoaster season, with exclusive insights from head coach Anthony Murray. From injury woes to playoff dreams, we cover it all. Plus, we celebrate the triumph of Workington Town Ladies as they secure promotion to League One. It's an inspiring tale of determination and community spirit.
Of course, it wouldn't be "Odd Shaped Balls" without some friendly ribbing and our infamous Heroes and Shithouses segment. Who's earning the title of hero this week, and who's getting the shithouse treatment? Tune in to find out!
So grab a brew, sit back, and join us for another episode filled with laughs, rugby passion, and the kind of camaraderie that only Cumbrian rugby can bring. Don't forget to participate in our trivia challenge and share your thoughts on our social media pages. Let's keep the conversation going!

The Odd Shaped Balls Podcast : Episode 4 - The Ian Smith Interview

Hey friends! Welcome back to another exciting episode of the "Odd Shaped Balls" podcast. Join your host, Andy Thompson, and his fellow rugby aficionados, BBC Cumbria's Becca Thompson and Jordan Weir, as they dive into the latest happenings in the world of rugby league with a focus on Cumbrian teams.
This week, we're missing our usual partner-in-crime, Dan Payne, who's on a one-pod ban for some hilarious antics we just couldn't let slide. But don't worry, we've got plenty to chat about, including a cheeky sponsor shoutout to Santa Marina, the Italian takeaway that keeps us fueled for these fun sessions.
We're thrilled to have a special guest, Ian Smith, a former Super League referee, sharing some intriguing insights from his new book, "My Final Whistle." Listen in as Ian opens up about his whirlwind career, memorable moments in Cumbria, and his heartfelt journey with the charity, State of Mind.
Becca brings us the scoop on the Barrow Ladies' presentation evening and shares her take on the impressive rise of the Leigh women's team. Meanwhile, Jordan fills us in on the latest from Whitehaven and Workington, including some emotional updates on players and club developments.
As always, we wrap up with our "Heroes and Shithouses" segment, where we highlight the week's standout personalities and those who might need a little nudge in the right direction. Spoiler alert: Dan's antics might just make him a recurring feature here!
So grab your favourite snack, get comfy, and join us for a lively chat that's as entertaining as it is insightful. We promise it's worth your time!

The Odd Shaped Balls Podcast : Episode 3 - I'm Better Than Chris Moyles

Hey there, welcome back! In this episode, we've got Andy Thompson, BBC Cumbria's Becca Thompson, and Championship Rugby League commentator Dan Payne in the house. We're also joined by BBC Cumbria's League One Rugby League commentator Jordan Weir. Ready for some rugby league banter? Let's dive in!
Shoutout to Our Sponsor
First things first, a big thank you to our sponsor, Santa Marina and Santa Marina Deli. Though they might be closed until next Thursday evening, their deli is open from 11 till 2 for the best sandwiches in Cumbria. Trust us, you don't want to miss out on their delicious offerings!
Rugby League Highlights
We kick things off with some serious rugby league talk. Unfortunately, James Newton suffered a neck injury in the win against Halifax. Our thoughts and best wishes go out to him for a speedy recovery. Rugby league is a tough game, but moments like these remind us of the importance of player safety. Hang in there, James!
Podcast Banter
Of course, it wouldn't be an episode of Odd Shaped Balls without some good-natured ribbing. Dan Payne claims he's the podcasts local celebrity. Is he the Chris Moyles of BBC Cumbria? We’ll let you decide! 😆
Match Reviews
Jordan gives us the lowdown on the Whitehaven vs. Halifax match, and we discuss the impressive performances of Jake Carter and Rio Corkill. Despite some early setbacks, Whitehaven managed to secure a 23-20 victory. Kudos to the lads for their resilience!
Amateur Rugby Updates
We also dive into the North West Men's League Division 2 and Division 1 playoffs. Congrats to Hindpool and Dalton for their respective wins! The future of Cumbrian rugby looks bright.
Special Mentions
We couldn’t miss giving a shoutout to Charlie and Brett for raising money for the Little Princess Trust and St. Mary’s Hospice by cutting off their mullets. You guys are heroes!
Shithouses and Heroes of the Week
Becca nominates Dewsbury for their cheeky social media post, while Jordan and Andy have their own nominations. And let's not forget Dan's hilarious shithouse nomination for himself—calling Luke Creswell "useless" and then awarding him a trophy. Classic!
Wrapping Up
As always, we end with some laughs and banter. Whether it’s Dan Payne's local celebrity status or his mum almost getting run over by Chris Moyles, there's never a dull moment on Odd Shaped Balls.
Thanks for tuning in! Don't forget to subscribe and leave us a review. See you next week!

The Odd Shaped Balls Podcast : Episode 2 - They Ain't That Clever

Welcome to another exciting episode of the Odd Shaped Balls Podcast! With Andy Thompson and the dynamic trio from BBC Cumbria, Dan Payne, Becca Thompson, and our beloved Jam eater, Jordan Weir. Get ready for a rollercoaster ride of rugby banter and insider updates!
We kick things off with some light-hearted teasing and a special shoutout to our sponsor, Santa Marina, the best Italian takeaway and deli in Cumbria. Seriously, if you haven't tried the Tommo special yet, you're missing out!
Next, we dive into the world of Barrow Ladies, celebrating Vanessa Temple's incredible performance and Amanda Wilkinson's coach of the year nomination. We also bid an emotional farewell to rugby legends Jodie Litherland and Michelle Larkin. Grab your tissues because it's a tear-jerker.
Our conversation then shifts to the men's side of Barrow Raiders, where we discuss recent games, player injuries, and team dynamics. And yes, there's plenty of friendly banter and some hilarious mishaps involving chips, coffee, and Yazoo!
In our news roundup, we cover the latest on Jamie Pye's recall to Salford, Ryan King's exciting signing for Barrow, and upcoming fundraising events. 
We wrap up with our "Heroes and Shithouses" segment, where we celebrate the unsung heroes and call out the week's biggest shithouses. Spoiler alert: Ellis Gillam might have some explaining to do!
So sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride. This episode is packed with laughs, insights, and heartfelt moments. Don't forget to check the podcast description for links to support the ongoing fundraising efforts. Cheers!
 
https://www.justgiving.com/page/charlie-a-m-emslie-1727021400554?utm_medium=fundraising&utm_content=page%2Fcharlie-a-m-emslie-1727021400554&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=pfp-share

The Odd Shaped Balls Podcast: Episode 1 - The Big Derby

Welcome to the very first episode of the Odd Shaped Balls Podcast. Join me, Andy Thompson, along with BBC Cumbria's Golden Boys, Dan Payne, and Jordan Weir as we dive into the thrilling world of rugby league, complete with all the highs, lows, and everything in between.
First off, a massive shoutout to our sponsor, Santa Marina, the best Italian takeaway and restaurant in town. They've got everything from delicious pizzas to mouth-watering sandwiches. Thanks for the support, Santa Maria!
In this episode, we kick things off by discussing the intense match between Barrow Raiders Ladies and St. Helens. The ladies finished fifth this season, which is a huge achievement considering the top teams are all full-time professionals. We also touch on the emotional retirements of Jodie and Michelle, who signed off in style. And let's not forget Becca Thompson's childhood dream of covering a rugby game at St. Helens, making history as part of the first-ever all-female commentary team for a men's game.
We then dive into the big derby – Bar Raiders vs. Whitehaven. From controversial decisions to passionate fights on the field, this match had it all. We break down the pivotal moments, including the disputed try by Andrew Bullman and the red cards that flew in the final minutes. The drama doesn't stop there, as we also discuss the strategic moves and potential impacts on future games.
But it's not all serious business. We had some fun moments too, like our chat about Luke Broadbent's antics and Dan's infamous puns that had us all in stitches. And of course, we couldn't resist giving our heroes and shithouses of the week. Spoiler alert: there's a lot of love and a bit of controversy!
As we look ahead to the upcoming games, we speculate on the outcomes and what's at stake for both teams. Will Whitehaven pull off a miraculous recovery? Can the Raiders maintain their momentum? Tune in to find out.
Thanks for listening, and we hope you enjoy this rollercoaster ride of rugby talk as much as we did. Don't forget to subscribe and join us next week for more banter, insights, and epic moments from the world of rugby league!
Cheers,
Andy, Dan, and Jordan