ADK Talks
ADK Talks brings you the stories behind the people, places, and things to do in the Adirondack Park of New York State. With 6 million acres, the Adirondacks are the ultimate playground.
We take you beyond the guidebooks and into the heart of one of America's most breathtaking regions. Just like we do on our website, adktaste.com, our podcast uncovers the hidden gems of the Adirondacks, offering hand-picked recommendations for the best places to stay, eat, shop and do in the Adirondack Park.
But this isn't just about places. It's about the people who make the Adirondacks so special and unique. In each episode, we talk to people from all walks of life—restauranteurs, farmers, innkeepers, historians, artists, local leaders, writers, hikers, and more. Hear real stories about what they do, their passions, and how they found their way here.
And they'll share their insider tips on the best things to see and do in the Adirondacks – insights you won't find anywhere else.
So subscribe now to ADK Talks to get real stories from real people, sharing the real Adirondacks.
You can also visit us online at adktaste.com.
ADK Talks
Scrums, Suds, and Saranac Lake: The Spirit of Can-Am Rugby
Every summer, the quiet charm of Saranac Lake and Lake Placid erupts in a joyful scrum of community pride, fierce competition, and unmatched camaraderie. That’s right—it’s time for the legendary Can-Am Rugby Tournament.
In this episode of ADK Talks, hosts Jane and Steve delve into the heart of this beloved Adirondack tradition with Cameron Moody, the tournament director and lifelong rugby player, who joins us from his deployment with the National Guard in the Horn of Africa.
Whether you’re a seasoned rugby fan or just rugby curious, this episode is packed with stories, surprises, and reasons to attend the 51st Can-Am Rugby Tournament, happening July 25–27, 2025.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
- The grassroots origin story of Can-Am Rugby in the 1970s and how it grew into the largest amateur rugby tournament in the U.S.
- Why rugby is a “gentleman’s game”—and what that really means on and off the pitch
- How Can-Am supports local youth sports, scholarships, and community events
- What to expect at the Tournament: free matches, family activities, and the return of wheelchair rugby
- Why women’s rugby is booming, and what new divisions are debuting this year
- Cameron’s big dreams for expanding the tournament and building youth rugby across New York State
Plus, don’t miss the Scrum & Done Lightning Round, where Cameron names his favorite post-match drink (hint: it's cold and comes in a can), the best rugby team names, and the advice he’d pass on to the next generation of players.
If you’re planning a summer trip to the Adirondacks, this is the tournament to build your weekend around—whether you’re a player, spectator, or just looking for something unforgettable and totally free to do in the Tri-Lakes.
Links & Resources:
- 🗓️ Tournament Info & Schedule: canamrugby.com
- 📱 Follow Can-Am Rugby on Facebook & Instagram
- 🎥 Live Stream Info: Can’t make it to the tournament? Stay tuned to social media for more information on the live stream on YouTube
Mentioned in this podcast.
- Can-Am Tournament Locations
- Mountaineers Rugby: The rugby club of the Adirondacks
- New Belgium Brewing and Fat Tire Ale
- Hotel Saranac
- North Country Sports Council
- Saranac Lake Winter Carnival
- Casa Del Sol
- Cool Can-Am Merch
ADK Talks is brought to you by ADK Taste. We provide insight on the best places to stay, shop, eat and things to do in the 6-million-acre Adirondack Park in upstate New York. Visit our website, ADKtaste.com, and sign up for our weekly newsletter.
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