The Lightning play their "home" games in Hamilton (Mohawk Sports Park) and nearby Burlington, Oakville (Crusader Park), and Brantford.

Fourteen unions and sub-unions were invited to compete in the new semi-professional league.

The Niagara Rugby Union finally decided to field a team in time for the 2004 RCSL season.

In 2012 the Niagara Rugby Union put together two Under 17, 7 aside teams in both the boys and girls divisions of the Ontario Summer Games held at York University.

All 7 aside U-17 squads have since 2012 have played under the name Niagara Thunder, including the 2014 Ontario Summer Games held in Windsor.