Axon Conversations

Merging GPS, Contact Load & Rugby Analytics: Insights from Elite International Rugby

Ben Pollard, former England Rugby and British & Irish Lions S&C lead, explains why GPS data alone isn't enough. "For forwards, 40% of plays start with set piece and they may be doing 1-1.5 contacts per minute. We should recognise not just quality of actions, but quantity — rugby actions as well as running actions."

Context is everything. "Data without reference points has no impact."

In this episode, Ricky—owner and manager of Body Synergy Gym—shares his path from a young athlete facing Sherman's Disease to a committed fitness professional. He explores his early influences, his focus on rehab and wellness, the power of wearables like WHOOP, and the role of tech and data in recovery. Ricky also highlights the value of nutrition, mental well-being, and building a supportive gym culture for optimal performance.

Jon chats with Simon Jones, Head of Performance at the Sydney Roosters, about how data is used to drive meaningful conversations in elite sport. With over 20 years of experience across rugby union and league, Simon shares lessons from high-performance environments like the Highlanders and Japan Rugby, how he's using data to build trust and improve systems at the Roosters, and why the human element remains at the heart of great performance.

Jon chats with Andy, Axon’s Product Lead, about how data in high-performance sport has evolved. With nearly 20 years of experience, Andy shares insights from his time as a performance analyst, how Axon is streamlining workflows and driving better decisions, and what’s next for the platform.