What Should You Know About Chicago Hounds? – The Chicago Hounds are Chicago’s professional rugby union team competing in Major League Rugby (MLR), North America’s top professional rugby league. As an expansion franchise that debuted in 2023, they’ve quickly become one of the most exciting stories in U.S. rugby, especially with their historic undefeated 2026 regular season.
Whether you’re a lifelong rugby fan in the Midwest, a sports enthusiast in Chicago, or new to the sport, here’s everything you need to know about the Hounds.
History and Founding of the Chicago Hounds
The Chicago Hounds were officially announced as MLR’s newest expansion team on November 17, 2022. They filled the gap left by the discontinuation of the Austin Gilgronis and LA Giltinis franchises.
Co-owned by a group including majority owner Peter Bernick and local rugby figures Matt Satchwell and Phil Groves (with involvement from former Ireland internationals Dave and Rob Kearney), the team hit the field for its inaugural season in 2023 at SeatGeek Stadium in Bridgeview, Illinois.
Early seasons showed steady growth: a playoff appearance in 2024 and a strong 2025 campaign under new head coach Chris Latham (a Wallabies legend). By 2026, the Hounds made history as the first MLR team to complete a perfect regular season.
Home Stadium and Fan Experience: Dawg Town
The Hounds play their home games at SeatGeek Stadium (capacity ~20,000) in Bridgeview, just outside Chicago. Fans affectionately call it “Dawg Town.”
The atmosphere is electric, especially during playoff runs. The stadium also hosted the 2023 MLR Championship and is set to host the 2026 MLR Championship on Father’s Day, June 21, 2026.
Chicago rugby fans, local sports lovers, and families enjoy an accessible, welcoming environment with tailgating, community events, and growing attendance.
2026 Season Success: Undefeated Regular Season and Playoff Run
In 2026, the Chicago Hounds dominated Major League Rugby:
- Finished the regular season undefeated (first team in MLR history to do so).
- Clinched the top seed and home-field advantage.
- Key wins included dramatic comebacks and high-scoring performances, with standout contributions from players like flyhalf Chris Hilsenbeck, center Tiaan Loots, and fullback Brock Webster.
They advanced through the semifinals and are contenders for the MLR Shield in the Championship game hosted in Chicago.
Key Players and Coaching Staff
Head Coach: Chris Latham (2025–present), bringing international experience.
Captain: Lucas Rumball.
Notable 2026 squad members include:
- Internationally capped and U.S.-qualified players like Ruben de Haas, Ollie Devoto, Tiaan Loots, and more.
- Rising stars and veteran forwards contributing to the team’s physical dominance.
The roster blends domestic talent, residency-qualified Americans, and experienced imports, supporting MLR’s growth of U.S. rugby talent.
How to Watch Chicago Hounds Games?
- Local broadcast: Fox Chicago Plus.
- Streaming: ESPN+ for national viewers.
- Tickets: Available via the official site for home games at SeatGeek Stadium.
Follow live scores, highlights, and news on the team’s official channels.
Community Impact and Partnerships
The Hounds actively engage with Chicago’s community. Recent highlights include a partnership with PAWS Chicago, the city’s largest no-kill humane organization, with their logo featured on jerseys.
The team aims to inspire rugby growth across the Midwest and serve as a beacon for the sport in the United States.
Why Chicago Hounds Matter for U.S. Rugby?
As MLR continues to professionalize rugby in America, the Chicago Hounds represent the Midwest’s rising presence. Their success boosts visibility, develops local talent, and creates exciting matchups for fans nationwide.
With a championship-caliber squad and a major final hosted in Chicago in 2026, now is the perfect time to get involved.
Ready to join Dawg Town? Check tickets and the full schedule at the official Chicago Hounds website.
For league-wide info, visit Major League Rugby.
Stay updated on the Hounds’ championship run and Chicago rugby news throughout the 2026 season.