The Junior Academy brings together younger players from across Illinois to build fundamental skills, develop confidence, and connect with the wider rugby community.
Unlike our local programs, the Junior Academy is open to players from any club, school, or rugby background.
The Junior Academy complements local club rugby rather than replacing it.
Players train together during the fall season, learn from one another, develop new friendships, and return to represent their local clubs during the traditional season.
The Junior Academy is centrally located to make participation practical for players throughout Illinois.
At a glance
- Season
- September – November (Fall; Outdoor)
- Sessions
- Up to 10 training sessions
- Games
- Inter-Academy games
- Location
- Chicago Blaze Rugby Club, Lemont
- Suitable For
- Grades K to 6th
Fees
$220 (training and inter-Academy games)
Includes
- Up to 10 Junior Academy training sessions (Fall, Sep–Nov, outdoor grass)
- Inter-Academy games
- 1 x Junior Academy Training T-Shirt
- USA Rugby Certified Coaches
- SportsEngine Communications App
- Field hire, referees & trainers
Additional kit: Purchase of base kit including shorts, socks & hoodie ($109.99 excl. shipping) required. Rugby Illinois / USA Rugby membership required via your home club, not included in this fee.
Kit ordering
Junior Academy Team Store
Order Junior Academy shorts, socks, hoodie, and optional Fortivus apparel through Tytan Rugby.
Required base kit: shorts, socks, and hoodie.
Timing: allow at least 4 weeks for delivery.
Getting here
Open to players from all clubs and all rugby backgrounds. The Junior Academy is specifically designed for players from across Illinois and is based in a central and accessible location for everyone to have ease of access.
Junior Academy in action
