QUINCY, Mass. — August 18, 2026 — The New England Free Jacks Academy today announced its new slate of programming for the 2026–27 season, offering rugby development opportunities for players and coaches at every stage of the game. Built on the same philosophy that drives the New England Free Jacks of Major League Rugby, the Academy’s 2026–27 calendar features two elite performance pathways, seasonal skills and strength & conditioning programs, a virtual coaching education series, and youth outreach throughout the region.

“Our goal with the Academy calendar is to provide the best possible rugby experience for our community and create high-performance outcomes through memorable rugby experiences. We want to complement, not conflict with the great work already being done across our rugby community. By working together and providing clear, purposeful opportunities for players and coaches at different stages of their development, we can continue to strengthen the entire rugby ecosystem across New England.”

— Todd Thornley, General Manager, New England Free Jacks

 Elite Performance Pathways

Free Jacks U18 –  The Academy’s premier boys’ performance pathway has sent more than 100 alumni on to top collegiate rugby programs since launching in 2021, with several earning selection to USA Rugby age-grade national teams. The 2027 season runs late May through early July and includes open tryouts (May 23 and May 30), weekly high-performance training, a two-to-three-game domestic season, and an optional international tour to Ireland in partnership with Cara Group Travel. Athletes will train alongside experienced Academy coaches, with appearances throughout the season from Free Jacks senior coaches and professional players. Registration is $350 and covers all domestic programming, with tour costs collected separately; tryouts, training and home matches will be held at Veterans Memorial Stadium in Quincy.

Free Jacks U23 – New England’s premier U23 development program is designed to complement the collegiate rugby calendar and has produced at least one Major League Rugby draft pick every year since 2021. Led by Head Coach Nate Brakely, a former USA Eagle, the 2027 season runs early May through mid-June, with tryouts on May 2 and a weeklong Ireland tour set for June 7–18. Registration is $150, with tour fees collected separately.

Fall Programs

Fall 7’s Program – A seven-week offering built around six Sunday training sessions (October 18 – November 22) at Legion Field in Weymouth, with the option to compete alongside the Academy at the historic New York 7’s Tournament on Randall’s Island on November 28. Registration is $350 for training only, or $400 including the tournament.

Winter Programs

Winter Development Program – Six weeks of fundamentals-focused training (January 17 – February 21) led by Free Jacks Head Coach Ryan Martin, held at the South Shore YMCA in Quincy and geared toward high school athletes preparing for the MIAA spring season.

Winter Strength & Conditioning Program – A 12-session program (February 10 – March 21) led by Free Jacks Physical Performance Staff, held at Free Jacks Headquarters in Quincy and designed to help high school athletes elevate their physical preparation heading into spring.

Coaching Development and Youth Opportunities

Virtual Coaching Development Series –  Coaches at every level — youth, high school, collegiate and club — can learn directly from the Free Jacks coaching and management staff across five one-hour virtual sessions combining instruction with live Q&A. The series runs five consecutive Wednesday evenings, January 6 – February 3, and closes with a special session led by a special guest. 

U16 Tropical 7’s Experience – Selected U16 athletes will represent the Free Jacks Academy at the Tropical 7’s Tournament in Tampa, Florida, March 25–26, following two preparation training sessions in March.

Free Jacks School Visits – Through the Academy’s “Rugby in a Bag” initiative, the Free Jacks have brought interactive PE class takeovers to more than 150 schools across New England, introducing rugby to students from kindergarten through eighth grade. Schools interested in a visit can contact Jill Isenstadt at jill.isenstadt@freejacks.com.

Community Coach Day –  Spend a day inside the New England Free Jacks preseason environment.

Join Free Jacks General Manager and former professional coach Todd Thornley for an exclusive Community Coach Day, offering coaches the opportunity to experience a full day of professional rugby preparation from the inside.

Observe preseason training sessions, team meetings, planning, and the day-to-day processes that go into preparing a professional rugby team for the season. Gain insight into high-performance coaching, player development, team culture, and the standards required at the professional level.

This is a unique opportunity to learn, observe, ask questions, and experience the Free Jacks environment firsthand alongside Todd and the coaching staff.

About the New England Free Jacks Academy

The New England Free Jacks Academy is the player and coach development arm of the New England Free Jacks, offering pathways for athletes and coaches at every stage of the game — from first-time youth players to elite U23 athletes preparing for professional rugby. Built on the same philosophy that drives the Free Jacks’ Major League Rugby program, the Academy combines elite coaching, meaningful competition and international opportunities to help its community reach its full potential.

Registration is open now for all 2026–27 Academy programs. Full schedules, pricing and registration links for each offering are available at https://freejacks.com/academy-2-0/

Stay up to date with our latest signings and all Free Jacks news by subscribing to our new and improved weekly news letter!

For more opportunities to engage with the Free Jacks community, stay updated on future Free Jacks matches, festivals, and announcements through the Free Jacks’ news page: www.freejacks.com/news

While much of the sporting public have had all eyes on the FIFA World Cup, two Free Jacks Academy players, Orlando Isturis and Cillian O’Callaghan, have positioned themselves to play as seniors for their country as rugby grows its profile in the US and looks to the Rugby World Cup in 2031.

The pair from Boston College High School competed with the USA U18s in South America from July 11-19. Isturis played at scrum half and O’Callaghan at hooker as the American development squad went 1-2 in three matches against U18s from Uruguay (26-29 loss), Brazil (36-26 win), and Buenos Aires Academy (0-40 loss).

“Orlando and Cillian have been excellent additions to the group, both on and off the field,” USA U18s Head Coach Luke Lewis. “On field, they have great game understanding and attention to detail. Off the field, they’ve been a pleasure to have in the environment—big personalities that are enjoying their time here.”

Ahead of the international action, Isturis credited the Free Jacks Academy with helping to advance his skills on the pitch.

“The Junior Jacks gave me a great opportunity to compete at a higher academy level like training with the senior players in the winter which pushed me to keep improving as a player. Being surrounded by great players and coaches definitely helped prepare me for the intensity and standard of the USA U18s,” said Isturis.

Looking forward, both players will complete their playing careers with defending Massachusetts State Champions BC High over the coming school year. 

“We’re incredibly proud of Orlando and Cillian for earning their USA U18 caps. Their selection reflects the hard work they’ve put in and on of the key performance indicators of our Academy.” Said Free Jacks General Manager Todd Thornley. “We want to continue casting our net wide across New England to create more opportunities for talented young athletes to represent the USA on the international stage. We’re excited to build on this momentum as we reshape our Academy for the 2026–27 academic year with some exciting new initiatives.“ 

Photos by Marcos Harispe

Stay up to date with our latest signings and all Free Jacks news by subscribing to our new and improved weekly news letter!

For more opportunities to engage with the Free Jacks community, stay updated on future Free Jacks matches, festivals, and announcements through the Free Jacks’ news page: www.freejacks.com/news

INTRODUCTION

The New England Free Jacks’ commitment to long-term success is rooted in development—identifying talent early, investing in growth, and providing clear pathways from the collegiate and academy ranks to the professional game.

Ahead of the 2026 Major League Rugby season, the club has reinforced that vision by signing three exciting young prospects from the 2025 MLR Collegiate Draft and its own development pipeline. Each arrives with a unique background, proven production, and a hunger to take the next step at the professional level.

Meet the next generation of Free Jacks.

Tevita Mapa — Power, Presence, and Collegiate Excellence

The Free Jacks are excited to announce the signing of Tevita Mapa, selected 10th overall in the second round of the 2025 MLR Collegiate Draft. The 23-year-old, 5’10”, 240 lb back rower brings explosive ball-carrying, physical defense, and championship pedigree to New England.

“Signing with the Free Jacks is an incredible honor and opportunity. I’m excited to join a club that values hard work, culture, and community, and I can’t wait to give everything I have to help bring success to New England.”

Born in Oakland, California, with Tongan roots and raised in Auckland, Mapa’s rugby journey has spanned three countries. He developed in Australia with the Melbourne Rebels academy (ages 12–17), progressed through Queensland Reds pathway sides, and earned 1st XV honors at St. Joseph’s Nudgee College. After graduation, he made his Premier Grade debut with Brothers Rugby Club in Brisbane.

After relocating to the United States, Mapa became a cornerstone of Life University’s powerhouse program, helping the Running Eagles capture the 2023 ARP Championship and repeating the feat again this fall—defeating Mystic River in the final. A dominant presence at the breakdown and in contact, Mapa earned Rugby East All-Conference honors in both 2024 and 2025, along with D1A All-American recognition in 2025.

Remy Thomson — A Field General with Leadership in His DNA

The Free Jacks are pleased to announce the signing of Remy Thomson, the final selection (#26) in the 2025 MLR Collegiate Draft. The 5’7”, 165 lb scrumhalf from Oxford, England arrives as one of collegiate rugby’s most accomplished leaders and will qualify as a pathway US-eligible player through residency.

“It’s an honour to be part of a team with such great history and success, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to play with the Free Jacks.”

Thomson developed through the English system with Oxford Quins RFC before continuing his education and rugby career at Hartpury College. After moving stateside, he captained Notre Dame College to an NCR National Championship in 2023. Following the school’s closure, he transferred to Walsh University, where he once again captained the side, earned NCR All-American honors in 2024, and co-captained the NCR Select Side in 2025.

In 2025, Thomson further embedded himself in the Free Jacks environment, completing a sports management internship with the club while contributing to the Free Jacks Academy system. He also suited up locally for Mystic River, gaining valuable senior minutes alongside Free Jacks and New England Independents players.

A true on-field general, Thomson brings leadership, tempo control, and a deep understanding of professional environments.

Filimone ‘Ami’ Manu — Speed, Flair, and Free Jacks DNA

The Free Jacks are excited to announce the signing of Filimone ‘Ami’ Manu, selected 15th overall in the second round of the 2025 MLR Collegiate Draft and a standout product of the Free Jacks Academy system.

The 22-year-old, 5’10”, 185 lb wing/fullback was originally selected by the Utah Warriors before being traded to New England. He qualifies as US-eligible through residency and adds speed, footwork, and attacking creativity to the Free Jacks back three.

“First and foremost, I want to thank God for this opportunity placed before me. It’s been an incredibly hectic journey to get here, but I’m excited to dive into the season and give it everything I have.”

Born in American Samoa and raised in Hamilton, New Zealand, Manu developed through the Waikato rugby and rugby league pathways, initially as a scrumhalf. After moving to the United States, he transitioned to the back three during his collegiate career at American International College, where he earned NCR All-American honors in consecutive seasons.

In 2025, Manu played a central role for the New England Independents, helping the U23 side secure an NCR All-Star title and impressing throughout their spring campaign and tour of Scotland. His performances also earned recognition at the national level, suiting up for the USA Men’s Falcons at Rugby Town Sevens as a USA Sevens prospect.

Electric with ball in hand and deeply familiar with the Free Jacks environment, Manu represents the pathway in action.

Stay up to date with our latest signings and all Free Jacks news by subscribing to our new and improved weekly news letter!

For more opportunities to engage with the Free Jacks community, stay updated on future Free Jacks matches, festivals, and announcements through the Free Jacks’ news page: www.freejacks.com/news

Coming off their historic threepeat Major League Rugby Championship, the New England Free Jacks welcomed five world-class collegiate rugby players to the club in the 2025 MLR Draft. The Free Jacks look to build for the club’s future while maintaining its winning culture. Their selections reflect a balance of immediate impact and long-term potential, aimed at keeping New England at the top of Major League Rugby. Without further ado, here’s the Free Jacks’ 2025 draft class:

Round 1 Pick 9: Adam Chadwick

The New England Free Jacks are proud to present Adam Chadwick as the club’s first-round pick in the 2025 Major League Rugby Draft. The 5’10”, 252 lb hooker and tighthead prop from Lymington, England, planted his roots in the US by way of Life University’s top notch collegiate rugby program. Before crossing the pond, Chadwick was an ACE League Champion and represented the Bristol Bears at the U18 level. He also played at English powerhouse Hartpury College alongside the RFU’s top rising stars before becoming a three-year starter at Life University. Earning selection to the Rugby East All-Conference Team, Chadwick has made his mark with his powerful ball carrying. His vision on the pitch and composure also sets him apart as a set-piece specialist. On defense, he’s relentless, and at the breakdown, he asserts his dominance ruck after ruck. Chadwick’s high performance in America cemented him as a three-time D1A All-American and selection to the US Eagles U23.

On draft night, the first-round pick expressed his enthusiasm in a Q&A exclusive:

What was going through your mind when you heard your name called in the first round of the MLR Draft?

Adam Chadwick: “Excitement and stress relief. Mainly excitement going to a team with a dynasty like New England. Can’t get much better than that.”

What aspects of your game are you most excited to develop under the Free Jacks coaching staff?

AC: “I think my defensive work. New England has such a strong defense and the ability to suffocate teams. That’s something I can’t wait to get stuck into.”

New England has one of the most passionate fan bases in MLR. What message would you like to share with Free Jacks fans?

AC: “To the Free Jacks fans; thank you for the incredible support and energy you bring. I can’t wait to put on the jersey and represent New England with pride. I’ll give everything I have each time I step on the field, and I’m excited to share this journey with you all.”

Round 2 Pick 10: Tevita Mapa

The Free Jacks selected Tevita Mapa, a 5’10”, 243 lb flanker, for the club’s first second round pick. Born in Oakland, CA with Tongan roots and raised in Auckland, New Zealand, Mapa began his rugby journey in Australia with the Melbourne Rebels, representing the club from the ages of 12 to 17. He also went on to play for the Queensland Reds U16 & Queensland Reds 7s U17. Once in high school, Tevita made the 1st XV at St. Joseph’s Nudgee College just north of Brisbane. After graduation, Mapa moved on to the University of Queensland Elite Mens 7s and also made his Premier Grade debut in 2023 for Brothers Rugby Club. Once he made his way to Marietta, Georgia, Tevita Mapa was a stalwart on Life University’s 2023 ARP Championship winning side. Mapa is a hard ball carrier that demonstrates excellent footwork and great knowledge of the game. He is a jackaling expert in rucks and holds authority over the pitch on defense. His commanding playstyle earned him selection for the Rugby East All-Conference Team in 2024 & 2025, as well as 2025 D1A All American selection. 

Round 2 Pick 17: Leon Best

For New England’s second second-round pick, the Free Jacks selected Leon Best, a 6’2”, 250 lb tighthead prop from Spring, Texas. Being the son of missionaries, his family moved to South Africa when he was a young boy. He started playing rugby barefoot at primary school in Cape Town, South Africa. Not long after, Best was selected for the U12 & U13 Western Province team. He played his high school rugby at Paarl Boy’s High School and was granted the opportunity to play for Grant Khomo Western Province U16. Following high school, Leon came back to Texas and played a short stint with the Woodlands’ local men’s club and was selected for the EIRA’s U19 tour of Spain. Best went on to be recruited by Life University and also represented the US Eagles U20 at the World Rugby Trophy tournament in Kenya. He was also selected for the East vs. West College Rugby Showcase. 

Round 3 Pick 19:  Jack Worobel

Jack Worobel is a Free Jacks Academy member who was selected as the Free Jacks’ first third-round pick. Worobel is a 6’2”, 235 lb lock hailing from Exeter, New Hampshire. Worobel began his rugby journey his freshman year of college at the University of Vermont. He was selected to the NCR All American team and was selected twice to represent the Independents Red team in the NCR. He was also named for the Independents’ tours of Scotland and Ireland. By the end of his time at the University of Vermont, he was captaining the same side that had introduced him to rugby.


Round 3 Pick 26: Remy Thomson

Remy Thomson is another former Free Jacks Academy member and was selected as the Free Jacks’ second third-round pick. Thomson is a 5’5”, 165 lb scrum-half from Oxford, England. Just like first-round pick Adam Chadwick, Thomson played for Hartpury College before making his way to Notre Dame College in South Euclid, Ohio. In 2023 he captained Notre Dame College to a NCR National Championship. After Notre Dame College closed it’s doors, Thomson and his teammates moved to Walsh University, where he captained the team and was selected as a NCR All American in 2024 and co-captained the select side in 2025. 

– – –

With their 2025 draft class now in place, the Free Jacks continue to shape a roster that blends championship winning and international test rugby experience with youthful energy. Each selection was a step forward to sustaining the Free Jacks’ standard of excellence on and off the pitch. As these new faces prepare to wear the red, white, and blue hoops, the Free Jacks’ future looks as bright as ever.

Stay up to date with our latest signings and all Free Jacks news by subscribing to our new and improved weekly news letter!

For more opportunities to engage with the Free Jacks community, stay updated on future Free Jacks matches, festivals, and announcements through the Free Jacks’ news page: www.freejacks.com/news

The Free Jacks Academy embarked on another landmark trip this July and August, taking 28 high school players from across New England on a high-performance rugby tour to Wales.

The squad was based at Christ College Brecon — a phenomenal private boarding school in the heart of mid Wales, about an hour outside Cardiff. The Free Jacks organization is incredibly grateful to Christ College for their outstanding hospitality and for granting us access to world-class facilities and pristine grass surfaces.

After shaking off the inevitable jet lag, the team enjoyed a behind-the-scenes visit to the Bristol Bears High Performance Centre — a state-of-the-art facility built in 2020 packed with cutting-edge features designed to enhance player performance and recovery. The visit concluded with an inspiring address from Bristol Bears Director of Rugby Pat Lam, who wished the team luck for the tour — a special moment that provided an extra spark for the matches ahead.

With no time to waste after settling into our home for the week, the team hit the field for a light captain’s run in preparation for our opening match against Christ College Brecon the following day. There were plenty of nerves in the group, but they were far outweighed by the feeling of excitement. In keeping with tradition, the evening saw a special jersey presentation take place — always a proud and memorable moment for players as they receive their game jerseys.

Match One: Junior Jacks – 42 Christ College Brecon – 19

Game One was upon us, and it was a beautiful afternoon in Brecon for some free-flowing rugby. A great crowd of locals packed the sideline, curious to watch some Americans play the game. The first 30 minutes were neck-and-neck, with both teams trading blows and laying their bodies on the line. It took a piece of individual brilliance from Gavin McNicholl to open the scoring for the Junior Jacks after a fantastic chase off of a clearance exit kick. That moment clicked the attack into gear, leading to a series of well-worked team tries. The Junior Jacks’ physicality and relentless line speed on defense proved too much for the home side, as the boys were able to turn defensive pressure into points. A special shoutout goes to the reserves, who did a brilliant job coming off the bench to help close out the game. 

Following our first fixture, the next day was all about enjoying a well-earned sleep-in before taking on the Brecon River for a spot of leisurely kayaking. While the activity certainly tested the patience of some — with a few “man overboards” along the way — the team completed the journey and returned to our accommodation for some free time. That evening brought another jersey presentation, this time ahead of our big clash against the Welsh Select Side, made up of players from local independent schools. The coaching staff rotated the whole roster for this game ensuring that every player got the opportunity to start a match. 

Match Two: Junior Jacks – 42 Welsh Selects – 29

Game Two dawned on another beautiful morning in Brecon as the boys geared up for their second match against an unpredictable Welsh Selects side. The invitational team struck first, using some crafty play from their number 10 to build early momentum and jump out to a 17–0 lead in the opening 30 minutes. But true to their never-say-die attitude — and under the leadership of captain Billy Hendrickson — the Junior Jacks dug deep, producing massive defensive stands to wrestle back control of the match. The second and third quarters told a different story, with the forwards laying a powerful platform through hard carries and physical dominance. This set the stage for multiple trips across the white line, turning the tide firmly in our favor.

Both games were the result of complete team efforts and served as a strong reflection of how hard this group has worked at training — and how well they’ve connected as a team, on and off the field. 

Our final day in Wales brought a spot of shopping and sightseeing in Cardiff, which was thoroughly enjoyed after a big rugby week.

The Free Jacks Academy would like to say a massive thank you to all coaches for volunteering their time to provide such a memorable experience for our players. Captain Gavin McNicholl reflects on his experience, “I enjoyed representing the Free Jacks in Wales and I learned a lot from the coaching staff. I also grew as a leader from the experience since I was one of the captains.” 

A huge thank you also goes to the players and parents for joining in on this journey — here’s to many more tours to come!

Stay up to date with our latest signings and all Free Jacks news by subscribing to our new and improved weekly news letter!

For more opportunities to engage with the Free Jacks community, stay updated on future Free Jacks matches, festivals, and announcements through the Free Jacks’ news page: www.freejacks.com/news

Free Jacks Academy Announcement

The New England Free Jacks are proud to announce the first-ever international tour for our Junior Jacks, a groundbreaking opportunity for local high school talent from the New England area. This exciting Developmental Performance Tour will take place this summer, featuring fixtures against two premier Welsh rugby academies: Christ College Brecon on July 30th and Bridgend College on August 1st.

The Junior Jacks will be based at the prestigious Christ College Brecon’s historic boarding facilities throughout their time in Wales, a fitting backdrop for a rugby tour that will serve as both a challenge and a learning experience for our young players.

“Following the success of our recent Independents expedition to Scotland, we’re excited to announce an incredible opportunity for our Junior Jacks – their first international tour! This trip will offer our U18s a unique rugby experience as they take on strong Welsh opposition, helping them grow both on and off the field,” said Thomas Grant, Academy Director.

FIRST FIXTURE

Tuesday, July 30th
Time: TBC

vs. Christ College Brecon

SECOND FIXTURE

Tuesday, August 1st
Time: TBC

vs. Bridgend College

This tour represents an exciting milestone for the Junior Jacks program, which is dedicated to developing the next generation of rugby talent. It will allow the players to experience rugby at an international level, improving their skills, gaining invaluable cultural exposure, and creating lasting memories.

The Junior Jacks will face tough competition against Christ College Brecon, known for its rigorous rugby program, and Bridgend College, a hotbed of Welsh rugby talent. These matches will push our players to grow both individually and as a team, preparing them for future opportunities in the rugby world.

We look forward to sharing the journey of the Junior Jacks with our fans and supporters, and we can’t wait to see how this incredible experience will shape the future of New England rugby. Stay tuned for updates, match results, and behind-the-scenes content as we continue to support and grow the talent within our community.

The future is bright for the Junior Jacks, and this tour is just the beginning of an exciting new chapter in their rugby development.

Let’s go Junior Jacks!

how do i join the free jacks academy?

There are many ways to join the Free Jacks Academy teams and to get yourself recognized by the coaches and staff. Free Jacks are always on the look out for talented boys and girls players of all ages. 

WINTER DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM

Elevate your Sevens Skills with the Free Jacks this Summer. Instruction led by Free Jacks players and staff

About Free Jacks Academy

The Free Jacks Academy is dedicated to elevating the standard of rugby in New England through rigorous training, competitive opportunities, and community outreach. Operating U18 (Junior Jacks) and U23 (Independents) teams, the Academy serves as a critical bridge between amateur rugby and the professional game. To learn more, visit www.FreeJacks.com.

About THE NEW ENGLAND Free Jacks 

 The New England Free Jacks are Boston’s first Professional Rugby team representing all the greatness of the six New England states on and off the field. The Free Jacks were named as an expansion franchise of Major League Rugby on September 20th, 2018.

 The Free Jacks are an aspiring and innovative live events, media, and consumer products organization. The core brand in the portfolio is The New England Free Jacks–the humble hard-working free-spirited professional rugby team competing in the emergent and exhilarating Major League Rugby (MLR), the premier North American professional rugby competition. For more information, visit www.FreeJacks.com.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Thomas Grant
New England Free Jacks
Email: thomas.grant@freejacks.com 

For More information on the Free Jacks academy, Community and Foundation check out our website or reach out the Thomas Grant.

MORE ARTICLES | fREE jACKS aCADEMY

Stay up to date with our latest signings and all Free Jacks news by subscribing to our new and improved weekly news letter!

For more opportunities to engage with the Free Jacks community, stay updated on future Free Jacks matches, festivals, and announcements through the Free Jacks’ news page: www.freejacks.com/news

Stay up to date with our latest signings and all Free Jacks news by subscribing to our new and improved weekly news letter!

For more opportunities to engage with the Free Jacks community, stay updated on future Free Jacks matches, festivals, and announcements through the Free Jacks’ news page: www.freejacks.com/news

Following the exciting announcement of the 2025 New England Free Jacks Academy Tour to Scotland, the organization is proud to unveil the full roster of athletes and staff who will represent the senior men’s academy team—the New England Independents U23s—this May.

The traveling squad features top young talent from across New England and beyond, highlighting a blend of collegiate standouts, club performers, and Free Jacks development players. These athletes will don the Independents jersey as they take on storied Scottish clubs Melrose RFC (May 13) and Boroughmuir Rugby Club (May 17) in what promises to be a challenging and inspiring international experience.

2025 Independents Touring Squad
Forwards:

• Sean Murphy – Boston College

• Tiernan Bentley – UConn

• Sebastian Leon – Fairfield University

• Ivan Pula – Free Jacks / Mystic River

• Matt Carrion – Free Jacks / Mystic River

• Gjergji Bacuku – Dartmouth College

• Matt Conroy – Mystic River

• Roman Legere – University of Vermont

• Jack Worobel – University of Vermont

• Dash Scura – Babson College

• Finn Gargan – Babson College

• Chris Casper – Midstate Rugby

• Charles Price – Babson College

• Liam Concannon – UMass Amherst

• Coleman Jackson – Mystic River

• Thomas Morales – Fairfield University

• Ethan Timm – Mystic River

• Bryce Stovell – Boston RFC

Backs:

• Adam Martignetti – Mystic River

• John McGoey – UMass Amherst

• Patrick Nash – Portland RFC

• Gavin McNicholl – Fordham University / Boston Irish Wolfhounds

• Satchel Sevenau – Babson College

• Shea Wagner – Mystic River

• Cian O’Callaghan – Fairfield University / Boston Irish Wolfhounds

• Shea Loughnane – University of Michigan

• Teyshawn Jackson – Mystic River

• Filimone Manu – American International College

• Luca Race – University of Vermont

• Kevin Kirklin – Providence College

Tour Management & Coaching Staff:

• Thomas Grant – Tour Director

• Nate Brakeley – Head Coach

• Kyle Sumsion – Assistant Coach

• Thomas Clark – Assistant Coach

• Padraic McDonough – Team Manager

“This is an incredibly exciting group of players,” said Tour Director and Free Jacks Academy Manager Thomas Grant. “We’re seeing a lot of continuity from our successful 2024 campaign, but we’re also welcoming in fresh talent from all corners of New England. It speaks volumes about the depth and growth of rugby in the region.”

With former USA Eagle Nate Brakeley at the helm as Head Coach and MLR veterans Kyle Sumsion and Thomas Clark providing support, the 2025 tour offers players elite-level coaching and the chance to test themselves against some of Scotland’s most respected club sides. The Independents aim to build on last year’s strong showing against Ulster Academy and continue establishing the Free Jacks Academy as one of the premier developmental platforms in North America.

Follow along for tour updates, match streams, and behind-the-scenes content at www.FreeJacks.com and on all Free Jacks social media channels.

Stay up to date with our latest signings and all Free Jacks news by subscribing to our new and improved weekly news letter!

For more opportunities to engage with the Free Jacks community, stay updated on future Free Jacks matches, festivals, and announcements through the Free Jacks’ news page: www.freejacks.com/news

Free Jacks Academy Announcement

The New England Free Jacks are excited to announce that our senior men’s academy team, the New England Men’s Independents U23s, will travel to Scotland for an international development tour in May 2025. This marks the second overseas tour for the Free Jacks Academy, following the successful inaugural trip to Belfast in 2024.

The 2025 tour offers another incredible opportunity for New England’s best young rugby talent, aged 18–23, to challenge themselves on the international stage. Representing the Free Jacks Academy’s commitment to developing high-performance athletes and providing high quality rugby experiences, the Independents will face two historic Scottish rugby clubs.

FIRST FIXTURE

Tuesday, May 13th at 7:00 PM BST (2:00 PM EST):

vs. Melrose RFC at the iconic Greenyards, the birthplace of rugby sevens.

SECOND FIXTURE

Saturday, May 17th at 1:00 PM BST (8:00 AM EST):

vs. Boroughmuir Rugby Club in Edinburgh.

“This is another landmark event for our Academy, building on the momentum of 2024’s historic first international tour to Belfast, in which we took a lot of learnings and great experiences from,” said Free Jacks Academy & Community Manager Thomas Grant. “The opportunity to now travel to Scotland and compete against storied clubs like Melrose RFC and Boroughmuir Rugby Club is an unparalleled opportunity for our young athletes. The chance to test themselves in a rugby-rich environment like Scotland will be an invaluable experience as they continue their development onwards to higher honors.”

The New England Independents program has established itself as a crucial pipeline for Major League Rugby (MLR) talent, with 16 players advancing to professional franchises, including Ethan Fryer (Free Jacks) and Connor Robinson (Dallas Jackals). This tour underscores the Free Jacks Academy’s mission of narrowing the gap between amateur and professional rugby while fostering the growth of the sport across New England.

Off the field, the tour promises cultural and educational experiences, deepening the connection between players and the global rugby community. The Independents will also participate in community events and engage with local Scottish rugby programs, reinforcing the Free Jacks’ ethos of building bridges through sport.

how do i join the free jacks academy?

There are many ways to join the Free Jacks Academy teams and to get yourself recognized by the coaches and staff. Free Jacks are always on the look out for talented boys and girls players of all ages. 

WINTER DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM

2025 Winter Development Program, an exceptional opportunity for young rugby players in the U18 and U23 age groups to enhance their skills under the guidance of elite coaches and championship-winning players. Taking place over six sessions on Sundays from January to March

About Free Jacks Academy

The Free Jacks Academy is dedicated to elevating the standard of rugby in New England through rigorous training, competitive opportunities, and community outreach. Operating U18 (Junior Jacks) and U23 (Independents) teams, the Academy serves as a critical bridge between amateur rugby and the professional game. To learn more, visit www.FreeJacks.com.

About THE NEW ENGLAND Free Jacks 

 The New England Free Jacks are Boston’s first Professional Rugby team representing all the greatness of the six New England states on and off the field. The Free Jacks were named as an expansion franchise of Major League Rugby on September 20th, 2018.

 The Free Jacks are an aspiring and innovative live events, media, and consumer products organization. The core brand in the portfolio is The New England Free Jacks–the humble hard-working free-spirited professional rugby team competing in the emergent and exhilarating Major League Rugby (MLR), the premier North American professional rugby competition. For more information, visit www.FreeJacks.com.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Thomas Grant
New England Free Jacks
Email: thomas.grant@freejacks.com 

For More information on the Free Jacks academy, Community and Foundation check out our website or reach out the Thomas Grant.

MORE ARTICLES | fREE jACKS aCADEMY

Stay up to date with our latest signings and all Free Jacks news by subscribing to our new and improved weekly news letter!

For more opportunities to engage with the Free Jacks community, stay updated on future Free Jacks matches, festivals, and announcements through the Free Jacks’ news page: www.freejacks.com/news

Free Jacks Academy Announcement

The New England Free Jacks are excited to announce our 2025 Winter Development Program, an exceptional opportunity for young rugby players in the U18 and U23 age groups to enhance their skills under the guidance of elite coaches and championship-winning players. Taking place over six sessions on Sundays from January to March, this program offers participants a unique combination of professional-level coaching, one-on-one feedback, and skill development to prepare them for their rugby journey.

Program Details:

• When: January 26, February 2, February 9, February 16, February 23, March 2 (all Sunday sessions)
• Time: 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm
• Where: Hale Family YMCA, 79 Coddington St, Quincy, MA 02169
• Cost: $300 (includes a ticket to the 2025 Free Jacks Home Opener!)

These six sessions are designed to refine fundamental skills, build athletic confidence, and accelerate growth in critical aspects of the game. The Free Jacks Academy High-Performance Staff and back-to-back championship players will deliver hands-on instruction and individualized feedback, offering a developmental experience unparalleled in New England.

Looking to the future

As we look to the future of American rugby, the Free Jacks Winter Development Program plays a vital role in the Free Jacks Pathways, a system designed to identify and nurture young talent that could one day represent the USA in the 2031 Rugby World Cup. With every drill, every skill session, and every piece of feedback, the Winter Development Program is aimed at putting participants on a path to elite rugby, equipping them with the tools to succeed at higher levels.

Why Join the Winter Development Program?

By enrolling in the Winter Development Program, you gain access to premier coaching and a professional training environment that mirrors what the top players experience. The program’s intensive sessions are perfect for any young athlete determined to reach the highest levels of the game.

If you’re ready to start your journey towards elite rugby, secure your spot in the Winter Development Program. This is your moment to develop your skills, make connections, and take the first steps in a rugby journey that could lead to the national stage.

For More information on the Free Jacks academy, Community and Foundation check out our website or reach out the Thomas Grant.

MORE ARTICLES | fREE jACKS aCADEMY

Stay up to date with our latest signings and all Free Jacks news by subscribing to our new and improved weekly news letter!

For more opportunities to engage with the Free Jacks community, stay updated on future Free Jacks matches, festivals, and announcements through the Free Jacks’ news page: www.freejacks.com/news