Ever watched a rugby match and thought, “That looks exciting—but where do I even start?”

If you’ve found yourself searching for rugby clubs near me for beginners, you're definitely in the right place. For over 60 years, the Chicago Lions Rugby Club has welcomed players from every walk of life—from wide-eyed youth to adults trying the game for the first time. Whether you're a parent exploring sports options for your child or an adult ready to tap into a new passion, the Lions offer beginner rugby programs built on excellence, integrity, and inclusion for beginners of all kinds.

We believe that learning to play Rugby isn’t just about learning to tackle or pass. It’s about joining a tradition. When you put on our jersey, you’re not just joining a team. You’re stepping into a legacy of excellence and community building. And whether your goal is to compete, get fit, or just find a community that has your back—there’s a place for you here.

Looking for rugby clubs near me for beginners that offer more than just the basics? The Chicago Lions provide a full rugby experience—from skill-building to mentorship to lifelong friendships.

Key Takeaways:

Rugby is a rapidly growing sport in the U.S. - Following its return to the Olympics in 2024, Rugby has attracted more players of all ages and experience levels.

The Chicago Lions Rugby Club offers inclusive programs - Players of all ages and genders have a place here—from youth beginners to adult newcomers.

Rugby teaches important life skills - Our players hone skills like teamwork, resilience, and leadership, making it an excellent choice for personal development for both kids and adults.

The Chicago Lions have a legacy of excellence - We offer not only competitive play but also a community-focused approach through our Chicago Lions Charitable Association (CLCA) and local school partnerships.

Getting involved with the Chicago Lions is simple - We have beginner-friendly programs, open events, and trial opportunities that make joining easy for those new to rugby football. Whether you're browsing for club rugby teams near me or just looking to try something new, our door is open.

RUGBY FOR BEGINNERS NEAR ME

Why Rugby Is the Perfect Sport for Beginners

So, why is rugby such a great fit for beginners of all ages? Because it's more than just a game—it’s a crash course in life. At its heart, rugby is built on values that help players grow both on and off the field. Whether you’re new to rugby football or getting back into it, rugby teaches lessons that stick with you for life.

If you've been typing rugby clubs near me for beginners into your search bar and hoping to find something meaningful—this is it. The Chicago Lions offer a program rooted in values, community, and personal growth.

In rugby, there’s no benching yourself or doing it alone. Every player has a role, and success only happens when everyone works together. You learn quickly that having each other’s backs is what wins matches—and builds friendships.
For your opponents, your teammates, your coaches, and the game itself. It’s woven into everything we do, from how we train to how we shake hands after a match.
Rugby rewards effort and consistency. Showing up, giving it your all, and being coachable are just as important as natural talent. These habits carry over into school, work, and everyday life.
You’ll fall. You’ll get tired. You’ll face tough teams. But you’ll also learn how to bounce back stronger. Rugby doesn’t just test your grit—it builds it.

Physical and Mental Benefits

In an era when people crave belonging and authentic friendships, rugby offers both—on and off the pitch. And perhaps the biggest draw for beginners? Community. Whether you're Googling club rugby teams near me or just curious about how to get involved, you’re in the right place.

From a fitness standpoint, rugby delivers a full-body workout that combines cardiovascular endurance, strength, agility, and coordination. Additionally, many newcomers are surprised by how much rugby benefits their mental game too.

Players report improvements in focus, self-confidence, emotional regulation, and stress relief. On top of that, the social connection you build with your teammates can be life-changing. In an era when people crave belonging and authentic friendships, rugby offers both—on and off the pitch. And perhaps the biggest draw for beginners? Community. When you join us, you’re not just signing up for rugby football. You’re joining a global family and a local legacy of excellence and community enrichment.

Join the Chicago Lions Youth Rugby Program

If you’re a parent searching for a junior rugby club near me, the Chicago Lion’s Youth Rugby Program offers the gold standard in development, safety, and fun. We’re more than just a team—we’re a stepping stone to lifelong growth.

We welcome boys and girls of all experience levels—no rugby background necessary. Our youth program is designed to introduce kids to rugby football in a safe, structured, and inclusive environment that prioritizes both skill-building and fun.

Here’s what you can expect:

We offer teams starting as young as age 5, extending through middle and high school levels. Each stage of play is tailored to meet age-appropriate physical and cognitive development milestones.
Our coaches are trained to work with beginners, ensuring every child learns the game with safety and confidence. Many of our staff have youth coaching certifications through USA Rugby and have deep roots in education, leadership, or child development.
Our year-round programming includes spring and fall seasons, as well as summer camps, travel opportunities, and special events. These experiences aren’t just fun—they build social skills, healthy habits, and lasting friendships.
Beyond the field, we focus on mentorship, leadership, and academic encouragement. Through rugby, kids gain not just athletic skill, but also accountability, time management, and resilience—skills that serve them long after the final whistle.
And we don’t just teach rugby—we teach responsibility, teamwork, and pride in representing something bigger than yourself. If you’re looking to get your child active in a community sport that challenges the body and sharpens the mind, our youth rugby program is the perfect place.

Learn More about Chicago Lions' Youth Rugby

Beginner Teams for Men and Women

No matter where you are in your fitness journey or your background in sports - you belong here.The Chicago Lions Rugby Club offers multiple teams across our men’s and women’s programs. That means there’s a place for absolute beginners as well as seasoned players.

Where You’ll Start

Each of our adult programs (excluding our Women’s XVs) has multiple squads. Newer players usually begin on development teams, which are designed to support skill-building, game knowledge, and confidence. These teams face off against equally matched competition—so you won’t be thrown into a situation you’re not prepared for.

As you progress and grow your skill set, you’ll have the opportunity to move up to more competitive sides. This gives you the flexibility to learn at your own pace while still being part of a competitive and supportive environment.

Train as One, Play as One

When you join a program, you train and grind together as one unit. Team splits only happen when it’s time to suit up for match day—and even then, rosters can change on a near-weekly basis. Earn your spot, and you can move up. Stay hungry, and you’ll find your level.

Supportive Coaching & Community

Our coaching staff has experience working with first-timers and experienced players alike. We understand that trying something new can be intimidating—but we make the learning curve approachable. You’ll be surrounded by supportive teammates, helpful captains, and coaches who are passionate about your growth.

You don’t need a certain body type, sports background, or fitness level. All you need is the willingness to learn, the courage to show up, and the grit to never quit.

Men's Senior Rugby

In addition to having programs and teams that cater to beginner players, we are a member of the Midwest Rugby Football Union, a territorial union that oversees rugby play across the entire midwest. Our Men's 15's team plays in the Midwest Rugby Premiership, while our Men's 7s team participates in the Midwest 7's series. Both are the highest level of amateur play available in the Midwest.

Learn More about Men's Rugby at the Chicago Lions

Women's Senior Rugby

Our Chicago Women's rugby team also offers programs for beginners and is a part of the Midwest Rugby Football Union, which administers and controls rugby play throughout the Midwest. Our senior 15's team plays in the Midwest Rugby Premiership, and our Sevens program takes part in the Midwest 7's series. This allows us to compete in the highest level of amateur rugby available in the Midwest.

Learn More about Women's Rugby at the Chicago Lions

In an era when people crave belonging and authentic friendships, rugby offers both—on and off the pitch. It’s one reason so many players who Google rugby clubs near me for beginners end up staying with us season after season—because they’ve found their people.There’s something special about putting on a Chicago Lions jersey. It represents more than a team—it represents history, excellence, and the highest standards in American rugby. Founded in 1964, the Lions are one of the most respected rugby clubs in the country. Our alumni include national champions, elite coaches, and community leaders.

A Culture That Inspires

When you wear the Lions jersey, you take on a responsibility—not just to yourself, but to your team, your community, and the generations of players who’ve come before you. There's a reason that the Chicago Lions pop up right away when you search for beginner rugby clubs near me. For decades we have set the bar high for inclusion, sportsmanship and athletic excellence in the greater Chicago areas. This jersey isn’t given. It’s earned.

You’ll be surrounded by:

Teammates who push you
Coaches who support you
A club culture that values grit, loyalty, and integrity

Giving Back to the Community

Chicago Lions Charitable Association (CLCA)

Through the Chicago Lions Charitable Association (CLCA), we invest back into our community. From working with local schools to running camps and clinics, to supporting youth programs and creating access to rugby football—we believe rugby can be a force for good.

Our state-of-the-art multi-use facility, the Lions for Hope Complex, doesn’t just host elite matches—it also opens its doors to local youth sports programs, schools, and underserved communities. We believe the values of rugby—discipline, teamwork, and respect—should be accessible to ALL members of our community.

If you are searching for rugby clubs near me for beginners and want to be part of a team that plays hard, gives back, and never stops growing—this is your moment.

Learn more about the CLCA

Ready to Get Started? Here's How

You're here because you are looking for beginner rugby clubs near me or club rugby teams near me. Here at Chicago Lions, we are the authority in beginner and expert rugby clubs alike in Chicago. For us, it’s about pushing past your limits, building real friendships, and discovering a piece of yourself you didn’t know was there. It's about upholding decades of dedication to excellence, sportsmanship and giving back to our community. We are passionate about Rugby and making it accessible to everyone - whether you’re 7 or 37, it’s never too late to get started.

Take Your First Step Today:

Visit Our Website – Search for rugby clubs near me for beginners or go directly to our website using this link: Chicago Lions Rugby Club. Explore our youth and adult programs, meet the coaches, and check out upcoming events and open days.
Contact the Chicago Lions – Let us know your interests and goals. We’ll guide you toward the perfect entry point.
Attend a Trial Session – Show up, meet the team, and get a feel for rugby football with no pressure. Our trial days are all about fun, learning, and connection.
Join the Family – When you’re ready, we’ll get you fitted, matched to your team, and on the pitch in no time.

Beginner Rugby Clubs - Sign Up Now

Rugby Clubs Near Me for Beginners – Chicago

Key Takeaways: