Jim Shannon

Meet Jim!

Women’s XVs Head Coach

RUGBY COACH with 10 years of progressive experience. I am a highly enthusiastic, skills-focused coach with over 20 years of playing competitive rugby in multiple countries. I have a determined yet
approachable demeanor. I am a results-oriented professional with a proven track record of bolstering participation through relationship-building and word-of-mouth recommendations. I have played
under the guidance of world-recognized coaches from the likes of Alan Gaffney and Michael Cheika. I have been fortunate enough to receive so much from rugby over the years, that I find enjoyment in giving back to a sport that gave me so much. I have been involved in coaching roles with males and females in open age groups.


As a process-driven coach who values hard work, I believe player and coach ownership of the result is crucial to the team's success. As a coach, I facilitate and collaborate with the players by guiding training methods, team structure, and game plan. I help players develop their identity and
confidence, to improve decision making whilst maintaining a challenging and supportive learning environment. If I maintain the enjoyment for the players, the results will take care of themselves.


My philosophy is to help develop the game of rugby in the US and to pass on my love for the game in a safe and inclusive environment. To cultivate discipline and life skills that are learned from working
as part of a larger team. I like to motivate a group of people from differing backgrounds to achieve a common goal with minimal resources, all whilst maintaining the enjoyment of the game, where Individual success is enhanced by group success., while having the support and encouragement that comes from having a shared goal.


I value the commercial aspect of the game and acknowledge that a support network built on team sports is one of the greatest aspects of rugby. I work hard to develop the professional network that
surrounds the game and pride myself on being able to connect the wider rugby community with a strong and ever-growing fan base.

Coaching Experience

  • Chicago Lions Rugby Football Club – Women’s Head Coach 2024 – Present

  • Chicago Lions Rugby Football Club – Men’s Assistant Coach 2019 - 2024

  • Loyola University Chicago Rugby Program Head Coach, 2016 – 2019

  • Calgary Hornets Women’s Rugby Team - Canada, 2013 & 2014

Core Qualification

  • Level 2 Rugby Coach – Australian Rugby Union

  • Level 1 Rugby Referee – USA Rugby

  • IRB Strength and Conditioning Level 1

  • Personal Trainer - American Council of Exercise