Chicago’s Sports Scene Dominates as Rugby Struggles for Attention

UPDATE: In a vibrant Chicago sports landscape, rugby is struggling to gain a foothold as American football, basketball, and baseball dominate the scene. Last Sunday, sports writer Gerry Thornley arrived in the Windy City, immersing himself in a whirlwind of games, food, and the city’s unique dog culture.

The past week has been a standout for sports fans, with Monday marking a rare “Sporting Equinox,” where the NFL, NBA, MLB, and NHL all held games on the same day. This unprecedented event featured an array of matches, including a thrilling World Series game and a Monday Night Football showdown where the Kansas City Chiefs triumphed over the Washington Commanders with a score of 29-7.

As Chicago buzzed with excitement, the Chicago Blackhawks faced off against the LA Kings on Sunday, where they fell 3-1. However, fans rallied back on Wednesday, witnessing a spectacular 7-3 victory led by rookie sensation Connor Bedard, who scored his first career hat trick. The atmosphere was electric, with fans chanting “USA, USA, USA” as the Blackhawks celebrated their win.

In stark contrast, rugby remains an afterthought in this bustling sports culture. The Chicago Hounds, the city’s professional rugby union team, recently faced a heartbreaking loss in the MLR Conference finals against the New England Free Jacks. Despite its similarities to American football, rugby struggles to capture the attention of local fans amidst the overwhelming popularity of traditional American sports.

The Irish rugby squad, currently in Chicago preparing for their upcoming match against the All Blacks, have been utilizing the facilities at the SeatGeek Stadium. The team expressed satisfaction with the amenities but noted the challenge of rugby’s visibility in a city dominated by major league teams.

While some players attended the Blackhawks game, they acknowledged that American sports provide a different kind of entertainment. “It might not be the speed or the passion that I like in games, but it was cool to see,” said Irish player Jack Crowley, summarizing the unique experience of American sports culture.

The dog-friendly atmosphere in Chicago adds another layer to the city’s charm, with many venues catering to canine companions. Hotels abound with pet-friendly services, and dogs are a common sight in the bustling downtown area.

As the Irish rugby team gears up for their highly anticipated match against the All Blacks at Soldier Field on July 15, 2025, they face the dual challenge of competing for attention in a city where rugby is often overlooked. The upcoming match presents an opportunity to elevate the sport’s profile in one of America’s largest cities.

While Chicago may not yet embrace rugby with the same fervor as its beloved Bears or Bulls, the passionate fanbase and the dynamic sports environment could provide fertile ground for growth. As the sporting world watches, the question remains: can rugby carve out a niche in this American sports mecca?

Stay tuned for further updates as the Irish team prepares to showcase their skills against the All Blacks, potentially igniting local interest in the sport.