Our Programs
The Lions Youth Rugby Program launched in May 2018, marking a significant step in expanding youth sports opportunities in Chicago s inner city. Under the leadership of Andy Rose, former Rugby Illinois Director, the program quickly established a presence in under-resourced communities.
By creating a structured youth rugby program, the Chicago Lions have:
- Established and managed the Chicago Hope Rugby team.
- Expanded outreach to middle schools in at-risk areas.
- Provided youth with a positive, structured alternative to violence and crime.
Today, the program operates in two area middle schools, with plans for further expansion. In 2018, the Chicago Lions partnered with Wapiti Rugby, merging their high school team with Hope Academy. By July 2019, Wapiti Rugby fully integrated into the Lions Youth Rugby Program, adding 150 new participants.
With 29 high schools and 54 middle schools within a two-mile radius, over 20,500 students are eligible to participate. In its first year, the program enrolled 120 youth across multiple schools, with expansion contingent on Chicago Public Schools vendor licensing.
With continued mentorship and funding, the Chicago Lions remain committed to growing this program, increasing accessibility, and collecting impact-driven data to measure long-term success.
Community Rugby
Lions Community Rugby is a free after-school rugby program serving under-resourced Chicago middle schools. Designed to remove financial barriers, it reaches youth in communities where the majority of families live below the federal poverty line.
Through a partnership with Play Rugby USA, the program integrates a Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) curriculum focused on: Goal Orientation Developing perseverance and ambition. Self-Management Teaching discipline and resilience. Social Capital Strengthening teamwork and leadership skills.
Many Community Rugby participants transition into Lions Youth Rugby, allowing them to advance their athletic and personal growth while remaining engaged in structured sports programs.
Rookie Rugby & Middle School Rugby
The Chicago Lions Youth Rugby Program provides a structured, accessible pathway for young athletes, welcoming boys and girls from Pre-K through high school. Special emphasis is placed on engaging youth from the Near West Side, ensuring that financial barriers do not limit participation. Scholarships are readily available, reinforcing our commitment to inclusivity and opportunity.
Rookie Rugby (Pre-K 4th Grade) Non-contact introduction to rugby, focusing on fun, teamwork, and basic skills.
Middle School Rugby
Juniors (5th 6th Grade) Introductory contact rugby, emphasizing foundational techniques.
Seniors (7th 8th Grade) Competitive contact rugby, preparing athletes for high school-level play.
High School Rugby
The Chicago Lions field competitive boys and girls high school teams, coached by current and former senior Lions players who hold USA Rugby Level 200 certifications and SEL (Social & Emotional Learning) training. The majority of players come from Chicago s Near West Side.
High School Girls (9th 12th Grade) Contact rugby with advanced skill development.
High School Boys (9th 12th Grade) Competitive play with a focus on leadership, discipline, and teamwork.
After-School Outreach
The Chicago Lions After-School Rugby Program provides an entry point for students who may be new to the sport. Designed as a progressive learning experience, the program introduces rugby through different stages:
Taster - A one-time, two-hour session giving students a first experience with rugby.
Camp - A four-week program with one-hour weekly sessions, teaching the fundamentals.
League - A structured four-to-six-week program, meeting twice a week for 1.5-hour sessions. Players engage in progressive skill development and structured matches, culminating in a league championship.
Exit Pathway - Participants are guided toward joining local rugby clubs, ensuring long-term engagement in the sport.
Strategic Programming
Beyond its own youth rugby initiatives, the Chicago Lions collaborate with key community organizations to expand access to sports and mentorship programs.
Noble Charter Schools
The Noble Network of Charter Schools (NNCS) is a leading educational institution with a strong emphasis on college preparation and athletics. The Noble Athletic Conference provides structured sports programs, including a highly competitive boys and girls rugby league. Primary user of the Lions for Hope Sports Complex. Awarded the 2015 Broad Prize for top U.S. charter school network. Serves 11,000+ students across 17 college prep campuses in Chicago. 98% minority enrollment, 89% low-income, and a 90%+ college matriculation rate.
Big Brothers Big Sisters
The Chicago Lions partner with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metropolitan Chicago to provide mentorship, leadership development, and structured activities for at-risk youth. This organization aims to partner with role models, volunteers, and others in the community in order to bring children facing adversity higher aspirations, avoidance of risky behavior, and educational success.
The mission of Big Brothers Big Sisters is closely aligned with Chicago Lions', as both are determined to make a safe space for the youth in this at risk area. Chicago Lions believes this organization will use any requested facility space in the most influential way.
Our Partners
Chicago Lions Charitable Association
PO Box 532
Northbrook, IL 60065