Men’s 15s
The Village Lions Men's 15s program is a competitive program for rugby players of all levels and abilities. Founded in 1989, the Lions have a proud tradition of competing hard on the field while fostering an inclusive atmosphere off the pitch. The Men's 15s team currently competes within the Empire Geographic Union (EGU) Division 3.
The Lions have fielded players from all five NYC boroughs, and are proud to give back to our local community. Many players from other states have found a home with the Lions, along with international players hailing from England, Philippines, Argentina, South Africa, Wales, Ireland, France, Dominican Repbulic and many other countries. No matter who you are or where you come from, you'll have a place on the rugby pitch with the Village Lions.
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Head Coach: Jacquie Sinclair
Sinclair has been playing rugby for almost 20 years and coaching rugby since 2015. Sinclair started playing rugby in college at Fordham University and went on to play for the Met New York Select Side in 2009, and then joined The Village Lions in 2010. Jacquie started her coaching career at her alma mater with Fordham University Women’s RFC from 2015 to 2019. She coached the Gotham Knights RFC from 2018 to 2021, and then returned to The Village Lions RFC in the summer of 2021. In 2025, Sinclair was named as the Tournament Director of 2025 NORAM Cup in Boston, and started consulting for WER (Women’s Elite Rugby) and locally with the New York Exiles.
Assistant Coach: Eli Billips
Head Coach of Men’s 7s program and Assistant Coach of Men’s 15s
Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, Coach Eli grew up in the game through Play Rugby USA, rising through the ranks to represent select sides across the country. His passion and performance led him to Life University, where he made an immediate impact on a nationally ranked roster as a freshman. After the professional path was next as he ventures with the Houston Sabercats Academy. Coach Eli shifted focus to giving back coaching youth rugby and fitness with the same energy that drove his own journey - now serving as Assistant Coach for the Village Lions Men’s XVs and Head Coach of their Men’s 7s program. Coach Eli is committed to building winners on and off the field, fueled by grit and heart.