CHICAGO LIONS RUGBY

Since 1964, the Chicago Lions have set the standard for rugby excellence in the Midwest. Based in the heart of the city, we’re more than a premier rugby club—we’re a community built on grit, respect, and the unshakable spirit of Chicago. From youth to senior levels, we develop athletes, foster leaders, and bring people together through the power of the game.

Our History

A Legacy of Excellence, On and Off the Pitch
Founded in 1964, the Chicago Lions have set the standard for rugby in the Midwest. From dominating regional play with countless Midwest Championships to earning national recognition—including Men’s National Sevens titles in 2007 and 2021 and a Women’s National Sevens Championship in 2023—our club has been a driving force in American rugby for nearly 60 years.

We’ve proudly developed players who’ve gone on to compete professionally and internationally, all while growing the game right here at home. In 2018, we launched youth rugby, completing our vision of a full development pathway from youth to senior level.

Off the field, the Chicago Lions Charitable Association (CLCA) leads our mission to give back. Whether it’s through partnerships with local schools and organizations, our Lions for Hope Sports Complex, or community-based rugby programming, we’re committed to making a lasting impact—on the pitch and throughout Chicago.

Our Teams

The Chicago Lions are one of the few rugby clubs in the U.S. that offer a fully integrated rugby program. With teams playing in the Youth, Women's Division 1, and Men's Divisions 1 & 2. 

We take great pride in offering our players expert coaching, a premier facility, and a platform for them to further develop and improve their game. 

  • Senior XV’s

    Our Men's 15s program has historically been a powerhouse, not only in the Midwest but across the U.S. With over 16 Midwest Championships and several National tournament appearances, the Chicago Lions' success is as deeply rooted as its history. Today, the Lions are still chasing Midwest Championships with both our Division 1 & 2 teams.

    Senior 7’s

    The Lions' prestigious sevens program is as successful as they come. With a 2021 Division 1 Sevens National Championship and the production of multiple USA Eagles, few teams have found as much success as the Lions in recent years.

  • Senior XV’s

    Our Women's senior side may be one of the newer additions to the Chicago Lions rugby program, but they've certainly wasted no time in making a name for themselves. Our Women's 15s team was the 2021 Midwest Champions and is a program clearly on the rise.

    Senior 7’s

    Our Women's sevens program is also considered a Midwest powerhouse. With several Midwest Championships and a frequent National tournament contender, they are a team everyone has their eye on.

  • We're proud to offer a comprehensive youth program that includes: Rookie Rugby (K-3rd grade), Middle School (4th-8th), and High School (9th-12th) teams. The Lions are dedicated to growing the sport of rugby locally and through our grassroots Youth Rugby program.

Why Play for the Chicago Lions?

When you put on the black Chicago Lions jersey, you join a tradition of excellence. Wearing the Lions jersey is not only a moment of pride and personal accomplishment but a responsibility. A responsibility to your community, the alums, and most importantly, your team. 

That's why only those who want to play with the best, most dedicated teammates, fans, and supporters, ever earn the privilege of putting on the black. If you believe you are one of those few, let us know.

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