What is a Community Rugby Program?
Join the Legacy of the Chicago Lions
Rugby is more than a sport. It is a community, a challenge, and for many a lifelong passion. Whether you are looking to push your limits on the field, build lasting friendships, or better yourself as an athlete, joining a local rugby club is the first step. In Chicago, no rugby club embodies this spirit more than the Chicago Lions—where players of all ages and skill levels come together to compete, grow, and give back.
For those searching for local rugby clubs in Chicago, we offer opportunities to players ages 4 and up! With over 60 years of history, we continue to build champions both on and off the field.
Key Takeaways
Community Rugby Builds More Than Just Athletes – Joining a local rugby club like the Chicago Lions fosters not only physical fitness but also teamwork, leadership, personal excellence and lifelong friendships.
Opportunities for All Ages – We offer teams for men, women, and youth, making the sport accessible to players of all skill levels and backgrounds.
A Legacy of Excellence – Wearing the Chicago Lions jersey is a symbol of commitment, dedication, and pride, connecting players to a rich tradition of rugby excellence.
More Than a Club—A Community Initiative – Through the Chicago Lions Charitable Association (CLCA), we actively give back by supporting local schools, youth programs, and community development.
Now is the Time to Get Involved – Whether you're an experienced player or new to the sport, the Chicago Lions Rugby Club provides the perfect opportunity for you to play, grow, and be a part of an incredible community.
What is a Community Rugby Program?
A true community rugby program is deeply rooted in the community it serves, and at the Chicago Lions, that’s exactly what we strive for. We take pride in offering rugby teams and resources for all ages and genders, making the sport accessible to everyone. As one of the few clubs in the country with this commitment, we are pioneers in community outreach and inclusivity, ensuring rugby is a game for all.
Why Join a Local Rugby Club?
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Rugby is a physically demanding sport that improves overall fitness, endurance, and strength. The game requires both cardiovascular and muscular endurance, making it an excellent way to stay in shape. Playing the sport regularly can improve coordination, flexibility, and balance, all of which contribute to better athletic performance in other areas of life. Rugby also builds mental resilience by challenging players to think strategically under pressure.
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Playing rugby promotes strong relationships, teamwork, and leadership skills. The bonds formed on the field often last a lifetime, creating a support system that extends beyond the game. In addition to fostering friendships, rugby instills discipline, respect, and communication skills that carry over into everyday life. Players learn to trust their teammates, adapt to challenges, and work together toward common goals—qualities that are valuable both on and off the field.
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We cater to various skill levels, from beginners to highly competitive athletes. Whether you want to compete at a high level or simply enjoy the game recreationally, a rugby club provides the structure and support necessary for growth.
Rugby is unique in that it accommodates all body types and skill sets. Whether you are a fast wing, a powerful forward, or a strategic scrum half, there is a role for everyone. It’s our experience that this inclusivity makes it one of the most accessible and rewarding team sports available.
The Chicago Lions Rugby Club: 60 Years of Excellence
Founded in 1964, we have set the standard for rugby in the Midwest, excelling both on and off the field. With numerous Midwest Championships, a 2021 Men’s National 7s title, a 2023 Women’s National 7s, and a legacy of international and professional players, we’ve been shaping the sport in the U.S. for nearly six decades.
Beyond the game, our Chicago Lions Charitable Association (CLCA) is committed to strengthening our community. Through partnerships with local schools, community leaders, and our multi-use sports complex, we strive to make a lasting impact—both by giving back and by sharing our passion for rugby.
Our Teams: A Place for Everyone
The Chicago Lions stand out from other local rugby clubs because we offer dedicated teams for youth, men, and women. By providing opportunities for players of all ages and skill levels, we create an inclusive rugby culture that brings people together and strengthens the sport at every level.
Men’s Senior Rugby: A highly competitive program competing at the highest levels in the Midwest and beyond.
Women’s Senior Rugby: A rapidly growing team that provides opportunities for women to compete at an elite level.
Youth Rugby Program: Structured development programs for middle school and high school athletes.
Rookie Rugby: An introductory program for children ages 4+, focusing on fundamental skills and teamwork.
By offering a fully integrated rugby program, we ensure that players can grow within the club from a young age and continue their rugby journey at an advanced level. This structure provides continuity and a sense of belonging that few other rugby clubs in the United States can match.
How The Chicago Lions Give Back
We are more than just a rugby club. Through our Chicago Lions Charitable Association, we make a lasting impact on the community by providing opportunities for young athletes, promoting rugby at a grassroots level, and creating spaces where individuals can develop both on and off the field. We are dedicated to fostering leadership, education, and character development on and off the field.
The Lions For Hope Sports Complex
The CLCA partnered with Chicago Hope Academy to build the Lions for Hope Sports Complex for the youth of Chicago’s Near West Side that was completed in 2019. This provides our rugby club with a professional, well equipped facility in which to learn and compete at their best. Beyond rugby, the complex hosts various community activities, including youth programs, sports tournaments, and fitness workshops. By making the facility available to other sports organizations and events, we have created a hub for athletic engagement and community building. The facility also serves as a venue for charity events and mentorship programs, further reinforcing the club’s dedication to supporting local athletes.
Supporting Youth Development
With one of the best Youth Rugby programs in the state, we offer structured programs to help young athletes refine their skills, improve fitness, and build character through rugby’s values. By focusing on teamwork, discipline, and respect, the association ensures players grow athletically and personally.
To make rugby accessible, the organization offers financial assistance, including scholarships and equipment donations. Through skill-building workshops and training camps, young players receive mentorship from experienced coaches and senior club members.
Partnering with Local Schools
Our Lions Community Rugby program offers free, after-school rugby at three middle schools in under-resourced communities. Using a Social and Emotional Learning curriculum from Play Rugby USA, we help students develop key life skills like goal-setting, self-management, and teamwork. Many of these students transition into our Youth Rugby program, ensuring they have continued access to both rugby and educational opportunities.
Through rugby clinics, school competitions, and educational sessions, the club helps students build confidence and develop a passion for the game. Additionally, the Lions provide coaching education to teachers and school staff, ensuring rugby remains a sustainable part of school athletic programs.
How to Get Involved
There are many ways to become part of the Chicago Lions Rugby Club, whether you want to play, support the team, or contribute to the club’s community efforts. The Lions welcome individuals who share their love for the sport and commitment to excellence.
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Whether you are new to rugby or an experienced player, there is a place for you in the club’s programs. The Chicago Lions offer teams for men, women, and youth players at all levels, providing structured training and competitive opportunities. Players receive high-quality coaching and access to excellent training facilities. If you are looking for a challenge, camaraderie, and a dedicated team environment, joining the Chicago Lions is the perfect opportunity.
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Not everyone needs to play to be part of the Chicago Lions community. There are many ways to support the club, including attending matches, volunteering, or contributing to the club’s community initiatives through donations and sponsorships. Fans and supporters are an essential part of the Lions’ success, creating a strong atmosphere at games and helping sustain club programs. Volunteers can assist with event coordination, fundraising, youth mentorship, and game-day support.
The Chicago Lions welcome individuals of all skill levels and backgrounds. Whether you want to play, learn, coach, or contribute as a supporter, there is an opportunity for you to get involved. Becoming part of the Lions means joining a club with a strong tradition, a commitment to community, and a passion for growing rugby in Chicago and beyond.
