In 2009 , The Chicago Lions became the only rugby club in the Midwest to field teams in each of the three highest levels of competition. The club has been a staple of the Rugby Super League and Men’s Club 7’s for many years, but fall 2009 marked the first season of competition for the Lions in Division-1 play in addition to those two leagues.
Every player, coach, and supporter associated with the Lions jumped at the opportunity to compete with other top-quality Midwest clubs in the fall of 2009. With Division-1 play, there is a structured, competitive league format to participate in, which instantly provides much needed experience and game time for young, hungry players on the team. Naturally, the fall training sessions became a little more focused, a little more competitive amongst teammates, and ultimately, a little more efficient toward achieving the goal of increasing the overall quality of the Lions as a direct result of playing in this league.
The benefits of fielding a Division-1 in addition to the Lions’ Rugby Super League and Club 7’s teams are undeniable: it provides invaluable playing experience against top-flight competition for those Lions who are younger and/or on the cusp of reaching Super League status; it allows all of our players to improve their skill-set and grow their knowledge of the game while gaining exposure to a fast, physical style of play; participating in a league environment without having to travel too extensively is great way for players who are new to the team to become accustomed to the Lions’ culture and gameplan; and players of any skill level can find a home with the Lions, learning the game of rugby with teammates containing the entire spectrum of skill and playing experience.
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