Coaches & Staff

Meet the Chicago Lions Coaching & Staff

At the Chicago Lions, rugby is more than a game—it’s a way to lead, to grow, and to give back. Our coaches and staf members are the heart of everything we do, from shaping elite athletes to fueling our impact off the pitch. Whether you're stepping onto the field for the first time or building toward national-level play, you're backed by a team that believes in hard work, character, and community.

Here, every player—from our youngest Youth athlete to our most experienced Senior competitor—benefits from a network of passionate leaders who bring their best, every day. This is where athletic excellence meets real-world mentorship. If you’re a player ready to develop, a parent exploring our programs, or a volunteer looking to make a difference, this i

Get to Know the Team Behind the Mission

Rooted in the values of teamwork, commitment, and service, the Chicago Lions have built more than a club—we’ve built a community. Since 1964, we’ve championed the growth of rugby in Chicago and inspired countless athletes to lead with purpose, both on and off the field.

The strength of our club comes from the people who power it: coaches who push for excellence, mentors who lead with integrity, and staff who make sure every detail counts. They’re not just growing the game—they’re building a legacy, one player, one neighborhood, one season at a time.

Welcome to the Chicago Lions. Let’s move forward, together.

Senior Coaches & Staff

At the heart of our senior program is a commitment to excellence, teamwork, and the relentless drive to compete at the highest level. Our players bring the passion—our coaches and staff bring the structure, leadership, and behind-the-scenes support that keep us moving forward.

Together, we build more than strong athletes. We build a culture rooted in dedication, pride, and Chicago grit.

Meet Our Senior Coaches & Staff

  • Matt Wagner

    Matt Wagner

    Director of Rugby

  • David Fee

    David Fee

    Women’s 7s Head Coach

  • Jim Shannon

    Jim Shannon

    Women’s XVs Head Coach

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  • Luke Lewis

    Luke Lewis

    Men's XVs Head Coach

  • Board Member Jennifer Kelliher

    Jennifer Kelliher

    Women’s 7s & XVs Assistant Coach

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  • Board Member George Plackmann

    George Plackmann

    Men’s D2 Head Coach & Men’s D1 Assistant Coach

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  • Brady Gent

    Brady Gent

    Men’s XVs Assistant Coach

  • Matthew Degutes

    Matthew Degutes

    Men’s 7s Assistant Coach

  • Ed Cassidy

    Ed Cassidy

    Men’s 7s Assistant Coach

  • Brigid Murphy

    Brigid Murphy

    Women’s 7s Assistant Head Coach

Youth Coaches & Staff

For many young players, their rugby journey starts right here with us. At the Chicago Lions, our youth programs are built to inspire—from first passes to lasting friendships. We welcome kids and teens of all skill levels to grow in a setting that’s structured, inclusive, and full of energy.

Our coaches and staff lead with experience, passion, and a deep commitment to safety and development. They're not just building athletes—they’re building confidence, teamwork, and character every step of the way.

This is more than just rugby. It’s where the next generation learns what it means to be part of something bigger.

Meet Our Youth Coaches and Staff

  • Ahn Gallagher Director of Youth Rugby

    Ahn Gallagher

    Director of Youth Rugby

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  • Kevin Lydon

    Kevin Lydon

    High School Boys Coach

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  • Clayton Miller

    Clayton Miller

    Team Manager and Assistant Coach

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  • Mike Harriett boys high school 7s head coach

    Mike Harriett

    High School Boys 7s Head Coach

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  • Lani Larson

    Lani Larson

    Head Coach of the Middle School program

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  • Mary Harrison

    Mary Harrison

    Middle School Assistant Coach

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  • Adrienne Guldin

    Adrienne Guldin

    Middle School Team Manager

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  • Aditya Kishore

    Aditya Kishore

    Rookie Rugby Coach

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  • Kevin Drewyer

    Kevin Drewyer

    Director of Real Estate and Special Projects for Chicago Hope

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Chicago Lions Charitable Association Board & Staff

Rugby is just the beginning. Through the Chicago Lions Charitable Association, we channel our passion for the game into something even bigger—creating lasting impact across our city. From youth scholarships to local partnerships, the CLCA leads our efforts to uplift communities, empower young athletes, and spark meaningful change right here in Chicago.

Because when we come together—on and off the pitch—we build something stronger than a team. We build a legacy.

Meet Our Board Members

Get Involved

At the Chicago Lions, everything we do is driven by passion, purpose, and people. Whether you’re looking to compete, give back, or simply connect, there’s a place for you here.

Step into a legacy built on teamwork, tenacity, and deep Chicago roots. Meet the coaches, staff, and board members who lead with heart—and explore the ways you can make an impact, on or off the pitch. From youth rugby to volunteer initiatives through the Chicago Lions Charitable Association, opportunities abound for those ready to build something bigger than themselves.

When you join the Lions, you join a community. One that empowers growth, champions excellence, and creates space for lifelong friendships.