The Windy City’s Steel Boot: Chris Hilsenbeck on the Hounds’ Undefeated Run

The Windy City’s Steel Boot: Chris Hilsenbeck on the Hounds’ Undefeated Run

From US Rugby Happy Hour by American Rugby Rising

May 14, 2026 · 38 min

About this episode

Chris Hilsenbeck discusses his journey and the Chicago Hounds' undefeated season in Major League Rugby.

Get ready for a high-octane interview with USA Eagle #590 and Chicago Hounds fly-half Chris Hilsenbeck. We kick things off with a custom intro song—featuring a "boot made of steel"—that gets the man himself pumped for the pitch. Bill and Fitzy dive into Chris’s unique journey from being born in California to growing up in the rugby hotbed of Heidelberg, Germany, and eventually finding his way back to the U.S. to lead the Windy City’s charge in Major League Rugby. The Chicago Hounds are currently the talk of the league, sitting undefeated and 12 points clear of the competition. Chris discusses the "target on their backs," the importance of defensive growth, and the organization's laser-focus on reaching the MLR Finals—which just happen to be hosted at their home field this year. Will this be the year the New England Free Jacks' reign finally comes to an end? Tune in to find out how the Hounds plan to secure the shield. —————————————— Connect with US Rugby Happy Hour: Twitter: https://x.com/AmerRugbyRising Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/americanrugbyrising/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AmericanRugbyRising/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@americanrugbyrising Tiktok…

People in this episode

Hosts: Bill, Fitzy

Guest: Chris Hilsenbeck

Topics covered

  • rugby
  • interview
  • Major League Rugby
  • Chicago Hounds
  • sports news

Keywords

  • Chris Hilsenbeck
  • Chicago Hounds
  • Major League Rugby
  • rugby interview
  • sports podcast

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Chicago Hounds, New England Free Jacks

Places: California, Heidelberg, Windy City

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