FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1. I don’t understand the Fortivus model — how does it actually work?
Fortivus Academy is built so kids can play multiple sports without the usual conflicts, pressure, or cost barriers. Here’s how it works:
- One academy, many sports: You can choose one sport or several — all through a single registration system.
- Aligned schedules: We build our schedules so sports don’t overlap, meaning athletes don’t have to “pick one.”
- Affordable access: Prices are kept intentionally low, with the Fortivus Foundation available for financial support.
- Community-first: Kids across all sports train in the same environment, building friendships and confidence.
- Athlete development over winning: Our coaching focuses on movement, skill, enjoyment, and long-term development.
Put simply, Fortivus lets kids try more, learn more, and enjoy more — without the burnout or pressure common in youth sports today.
2. Where are training sessions held?
- Naperville Yard (Winter rugby for Crusaders)
- Just for Kicks (Winter rugby for Warriors)
- Commissioners Park (Spring rugby)
- Invictus Health & Fitness (Speed & Strength in Geneva)
- American Martial Arts Academy (Naperville)
- Local fields for Soccer Academy (Naperville Premier League)
3. How do schedules work across multiple sports?
We deliberately design the schedule so athletes can participate in more than one sport without conflict. Updated schedules are listed on our website.
4. What if we can’t make all sessions?
No problem. Our model is built on flexibility — attend as much as you can. We know families have busy lives.
5. Are programs suitable for beginners?
Yes. Every sport welcomes beginners through to experienced players, and our coaches are experienced in supporting new athletes at all ages.
6. What if my child has never played rugby before?
Perfect — Fortivus, Crusaders and Warriors always include first-time players, and we teach everything from the ground up.
7. How does the Fortivus Foundation help families?
If cost is a barrier, the Fortivus Foundation can provide full or partial financial support. The process is quick, confidential, and available to anyone who needs it.
8. What equipment is required?
- Rugby: mouthguard, boots/cleats, athletic kit
- Speed & Strength: indoor training shoes
- Martial Arts: uniform through AMMA
- Soccer: shin guards & cleats
9. Can athletes join mid-season?
Yes, if space is available. Some sports fill quickly, so early registration is encouraged.
10. How do I express interest in the Spring Break Rugby Tour?
Contact Claire Evans to register your interest. Spaces will be limited.
11. Is registration refundable?
Refund policies vary by sport and partner organization. Please contact us for further information.
12. What kit or uniform does my child need?
Every athlete receives Fortivus training t-shirt(s) included in their program fee, so nothing extra is required for training. If you would like additional kit — or sport-specific items for rugby, martial arts, soccer, or speed & agility — our official kit partner Tytan provides all Fortivus, Crusaders, and Warriors gear. A link to the Tytan store is available on the website and in your registration confirmation email.
13. What is Rugby Xplorer and how do I register?
Rugby Xplorer is the national registration system used by USA Rugby and Rugby Illinois for player insurance, eligibility, and competition management. All rugby players must complete this once per year. Register by downloading the Rugby Xplorer app (or visiting myaccount.rugbyxplorer.com), creating an account, adding your child, then selecting Register → Player → Rugby Illinois → Crusaders or Warriors (no charge, fee is covered by club). It takes just a few minutes and must be done before playing in any matches.
14. Who do I contact with questions?
Reach us anytime via the Contact Us page on the website.
