Chicago Youth Rugby
Join the Movement
Looking for a sport that challenges your child, builds character, and connects them to something bigger than themselves? At the Chicago Lions, rugby isn’t just a game—it’s a foundation for confidence, teamwork, and lifelong community.
We know what parents are looking for: a sports program that develops athletic skill, supports emotional growth, and surrounds their child with role models and mentors. As one of the most established youth rugby clubs in the country, the Chicago Lions offer an inclusive, structured, and safety-first environment where kids can thrive both on and off the field. Our youth programs are rooted in the values of respect, accountability, and grit—the same principles that have driven the Lions since 1964.
Whether your child is picking up a ball for the first time or preparing to compete at the next level, there’s a place for them here, in one of the most highly esteemed Chicago youth rugby programs out there.
Table of Contents
Safety First
Rookie Rugby
Middle School Rugby
High School Rugby
Meet The Coaches
Chicago Lions Youth Schedule and Rates
How to Sign Up
FAQ’s
Youth Program Overview
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Rookie Rugby (Ages 4–10)
Rookie Rugby is our entry-level program for kids ages 4 to 10. Our Chicago youth rugby program introduces young athletes to the game through fun, non-contact activities that build motor skills, coordination, and confidence. It’s an accessible, inclusive program open to all experience levels.
Our focus at this stage is simple: get kids moving, learning, and having fun. Sessions are high-energy, skill-based, and designed to build a love for the game from day one. Rookie Rugby is where the journey begins.
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Middle School Rugby (Ages 10–13)
As kids grow, so does their rugby experience. Our middle school youth rugby team introduces structured gameplay and positional understanding in a format that remains age-appropriate and inclusive.
Players learn teamwork, game strategy, and personal accountability in an environment that supports both individual and team growth. Whether your child is continuing from Rookie Rugby or just starting out, this stage offers the perfect balance of competition and development.
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High School Rugby (Ages 14–18)
Our high school teams represent the highest level of youth rugby development within the Chicago Lions program. Players train with elite coaches, compete in regional tournaments, and are introduced to advanced strategy, conditioning, and leadership development.
This program is a direct pathway to college opportunities, club-level play, and senior Lions teams. If your athlete is serious about rugby and ready to be challenged, this is where commitment meets opportunity.
Chicago Lions Rugby 2025 Youth Spring Competitive Season
All practices are at the Lions for Hope Sports Complex 2637 W Polk St, Chicago, IL 60612
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$160 April 5th – May 31st
Practice Saturday mornings 8:00 – 9:30 am
Home Game 4/6
Away Games 4/13, 4/27, 5/3, 5/10, 5/18
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$360 April 1st – May 31st
Practice Tuesday & Thursday evenings 5:30 – 7:00 pm
Home Game 4/6
Away Games 4/13, 4/27, 5/3, 5/10, 5/18
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$360 April 1st – May 31st
Girls
Practice Tuesday & Thursday evenings 5:30 – 7:00 pm
Home Games 4/5
Away Games 4/12, 4/27, 5/4, 5/11
Playoffs TBD
Championship 5/31
Boys
Practice Tuesday & Thursday evenings 5:00 – 7:00 pm
Home Games TBD
Away Games TBD
Playoffs TBD
Championship 5/31
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(1) Parents need to register on TeamSnap. This is for the Lions Youth Programs 2024/2025
(2) Parents need to register on Rugby Xployer for Rugby Illinois/USA Rugby This is an annual registration and must be done.
In the “Search by Club Name” Field – Select “Chicago Lions Rugby”. It will read “Illinois, Youth, and HS Council” In the subtitle.
• When asked who you would like to register, choose the participant or “Link a new person” and input your child’s information. Make sure to register your child as a “Player” when asked to select role and choose the duration for Chicago Lions Rugby: “Season”
• If you are registering multiple family members (even for various teams/roles), make sure to do them consecutively to get a family discount.
Please note that the Lions offer scholarships and multi-member family discount packages.
We never want anyone's financial situation to prevent them from participating in rugby. If you need assistance, please email youth@chicagolions.com for options.
Youth Rugby in Chicago—Why the Lions Lead the Pack
Chicago has a growing youth rugby scene—but no other program matches the depth, structure, and legacy of the Chicago Lions. While some clubs offer seasonal teams or age-specific programs, we provide a fully integrated pathway from Rookie Rugby through high school and beyond.
What sets us apart isn’t just our on-field development—it’s our full-circle approach. Our coaches are among the most experienced in the region, many of them former Lions themselves, trained to guide players through every stage of their rugby journey. The Lions for Hope Sports Complex gives our teams a permanent, professional-grade home field—something many programs can’t offer.
Beyond the pitch, our work through the Chicago Lions Charitable Association connects us directly with local schools, families, and neighborhoods. We’re not just developing athletes with our youth rugby teams—we’re investing in young leaders and building lasting community ties. For parents searching for, "youth rugby club near me," the Chicago Lions offers more than just a sports league. We represent a long-term commitment to growth, excellence, and purpose.
Safety First—Protecting Every Player, Every Step of the Way
We take safety seriously—because trust is built through care and consistency. Every player in our youth rugby teams is protected under the CLCA Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy, ensuring clear conduct standards, background checks, and a zero-tolerance approach to misconduct.
In an effort to protect the minors in our organization and keep everyone in the club safe, we have constructed the new CLCA Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy. In addition to these guidelines, our coaches are SafeSport certified and trained in the Lions Approach to Rugby Safety, which includes age-appropriate training methods, gradual contact progression, and continuous oversight.
Our dedicated coaches are World Rugby Level 1 certified, and our Director of Youth Rugby is World Rugby Level 2 certified. All Chicago Lions staff continue their rugby education and certifications through World Rugby and complete annual SafeSport Courses.
Parents looking for youth rugby in Chicago can be confident their child is in good hands. We don’t just coach rugby—we create a safe, supportive environment where every child is respected, encouraged, and empowered.
Meet our Coaches and Staff
When looking for youth rugby programs in Chicago - look no further. Our coaching staff brings together decades of experience in youth development, rugby football training, and community engagement. Every coach is SafeSport certified and deeply invested in the growth of our players both on and off the pitch.
Our coaches are not only leaders—they’re mentors. Their passion, professionalism, and pride in our youth rugby club help set the standard for what youth sports should be.
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![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
Rookie Rugby Touch Coed (4-10 Years Old)
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Rookie Rugby Touch Coed (4-10 Years Old)
Rookie Rugby focuses on the FUNdamentals of the game.
The Rookie Program has 3 levels. Mini (P-k & Kinder) Minors (1st & 2nd) & Majors (3rd & 4th).
All levels work on passing, catching, running forward with 2 hands on the ball, and kicking. All of this is done in age appropriate games and drills.
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Mini: Pre-K & K
Minor: 1 st & 2nd
Major: 3rd & 4th
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“K” - Pre K
Saturdays 8:00 – 9:30 am @ Lions for Hope Sports Complex
2637 W Polk St, Chicago, IL 60612
“Rookies” – Grades 1-3
Saturdays 8:00 – 9:30 am @ Lions for Hope Sports Complex
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Middle School Rugby Coed (5th-8th Grade)
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Middle School Rugby Coed (5th -8th grade)
Middle School focuses on Learning the game and starts to Develop the Player.
The Middle School Program has 2 levels. Jr Squad (5th & 6th grade) and Sr Squad (7th & 8th grade).
Both levels work on the basic skills of ball handling, decision-making, tackling, ball retention, and start to play as Forwards and Backs.
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Middle School Juniors 5th-6th Grade
Middle School Seniors 7th-8th Grade
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High School Rugby
High School Girls
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High School Girls Teams (9th – 12th grade)
High School focuses on Developing the Player and Developing Performance.
Our High School program is a pathway to playing rugby at higher levels. We are developing players that go on to play in college, on the Tornados (Illinois State Team), Thunderbirds (Regional Midwest Team), and on the USA Eagles (National Team).
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Yes! Our most recent graduates have gone on to the following universities and colleges:
The University of Illinois – Champagne Urbana
The University of Illinois
Northern Illinois University
The University of Louisville,
The University of Kansas,
The University of California at Berkley
Brown University
Dartmouth College
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High School Girls – Grades 9-12
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Tuesdays and Thursdays
5:30-7pm @ Lions for Hope SC (2637 W Polk)
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High School Boys
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High School Boys Teams (9th – 12th grade)
High School focuses on Developing the Player and Developing Performance.
Our High School program is a pathway to playing rugby at higher levels. We are developing players that go on to play in college, on the Tornados (Illinois State Team), Thunderbirds (Regional Midwest Team), and on the USA Eagles (National Team).
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Yes! Our most recent graduates have gone on to the following universities and colleges:
The University of Illinois – Champagne Urbana
The University of Illinois
Northern Illinois University
The University of Louisville,
The University of Kansas,
The University of California at Berkley
Brown University
Dartmouth College
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High School Boys – Grades 9-12
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Tuesdays and Thursdays
5:30-7pm @ Lions for Hope SC (2637 W Polk)
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Why Rugby? The Sport That Builds More Than Athletes
Rugby is more than a sport—it’s a tool for growth. Unlike many traditional youth sports, our youth rugby club emphasizes collective effort, respect for the opponent, and shared leadership. Every player has a role. Every player contributes.
At the Chicago Lions, we use rugby to teach discipline, resilience, and empathy. Our players build confidence, manage adversity, and form friendships that last beyond the final whistle. This is community rugby at its best.
Our Story - The Legacy of the Lions
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History of the Lions’ Youth and Community Rugby Program
Partnership with Chicago Hope Academy
In 2009, Chicago Hope Academy and Chicago Lions Rugby entered into a unique, mutually-beneficial partnership in ordered to further develop the sport of rugby in Chicago. This partnership has provided the Lions with a home field and clubhouse in the inner city of Chicago, while producing financial support and developing a rugby program for Hope Academy.Lastly, the partnership has produced a safe and substantial location to develop all levels of rugby, from youth to Division 1.
Development of Lions Community Rugby
The Lions Community program is the brainchild of Lions’ Director of Rugby, Dave Clancy, and focused on using rugby as a vehicle for youth development and social change in the North Lawndale and East Garfield Park Community. The Lions hired Andy Rose as Director of Youth and Community Rugby in May 2018 and launch its first programs – an “Introduction to Rugby” course in North Lawndale Community Academy and Morton School of Excellence, unfortunately their festival had to be cancelled due to lightning but that was the beginning.
Merger with Chicago Wapiti RFC
In 2018/2019 school year, the Lions Community program ran two after school programs as well a numerous camps and clinics with community parks and other non profit in the area – all of these programs, camps and clinics focused on introducing the sport and its ethos to the community members These programs were also provide an opportunity for healthy competition against the other programs.
In August 2019, the Chicago Lions Rugby organization, established in 1964, joined forces to expand the Chicago Lions Youth Rugby Program to include middle school and rookie rugby. The merger is mutually beneficial and a pooling of resources will allow a complete pathway for its players focused on development and growth.
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A Home Field Like No Other: Lions for Hope Sports Complex
Located on Chicago’s Near West Side, the Lions for Hope Sports Complex is our home base and a hub for community activity. With professional-grade turf, classroom space, and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s more than a field—it’s a place where young athletes grow and practice.
From regular practices to citywide events and volunteer days, the complex is a central part of our mission to empower youth through sport. Built in partnership with the Chicago Lions Charitable Association (CLCA), it represents our commitment to serving the city we love.
Let’s Get in Touch
More Than a Team—A Tradition
Joining the Chicago Lions Youth Rugby program means joining something bigger than sport. It means joining a tradition of excellence, resilience, and community that’s been growing for 60 years. If your child is ready to learn, grow, and compete—we’re ready for them.
Join the Movement. Sign up for our youth rugby club today.
Youth Rugby Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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Youth rugby is a modified version of rugby union tailored for children and teenagers. It emphasizes skill development, teamwork, and safety. Compared to adult rugby, rugby for youth features smaller teams, adjusted rules for young players, and a strong focus on player welfare and education.
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We offer a comprehensive youth rugby program that caters to various age groups ranging from 4-18 years old. To ensure age-appropriate competition, skill development, and a safe, enjoyable rugby experience, we've organized our Youth program into the following age/grade brackets:
Rookie Rugby (Co-ed)
Mini - Pre-K - Kindergardten
Minor 1st - 2nd Grade
Major 3rd - 4th Grade
Middle School (Co-ed)
Middle School Juniors 5-6th Grade
Middle School Seniors 7th-8th Grade
High School Girls
9th-12th Grade
High School Boys
9th-12th Grade
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Yes, rugby is considered a safe and rewarding sport for young athletes when conducted under the guidance of our dedicated coaching staff and within the framework of our youth rugby program. Safety is paramount, and we provide age-specific coaching and techniques to minimize injury risks. Our coaching team is well-trained to create a secure and enjoyable rugby environment.
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Young rugby players typically require basic gear, including cleats, a well-fitted mouthguard, and suitable sportswear. Some programs may provide jerseys and shorts as part of the registration fee. Depending on local regulations, protective headgear may also be recommended or allowed for added player safety.
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The frequency of practices and games varies by program and age group. Generally, youth rugby teams have structured practices once or twice a week, with games scheduled on weekends during the playing season. Specific training and game schedules are provided by each group individually.
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Need help enrolling your child in the Chicago Lions Youth Rugby program? No worries! To help, we've outlined how to complete the necessary registration. If you have any additional questions, please feel free to reach out!
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We do offer scholarships, and multi-member family packaging is available. Please reach out to us in order to learn more!
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Youth rugby offers a wide range of transformative benefits, including improved physical fitness, enhanced teamwork and leadership skills, increased self-confidence, and the opportunity to build lasting friendships. Moreover, rugby instills essential values such as sportsmanship, respect, and discipline, contributing to the holistic development of young athletes.
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Parents play a vital role in nurturing the growth of youth rugby. There are various ways for parents to actively engage and contribute to the sport's success, including volunteering as coaches, team managers, or club administrators. Supporting your child's passion for rugby and attending their games also fosters a sense of community within the youth rugby family. Whether its with Rookie rugby or High School rugby., your involvement is instrumental in shaping the future of youth rugby and the development of these young athletes!