For many across the South Shore veteran community, Gregg Brasso is a familiar voice. As the longtime host of Veterans Voice on WATD, he has dedicated himself to connecting veterans with resources, support, and one another. A Weymouth native, Gregg’s path to community leadership was anything but conventional. After attending Massasoit Community College and Bridgewater State University, where he played collegiate sports, he worked a variety of jobs before reinventing himself at age 30 through computer training. He went on to build a successful career in the technology industry, but his greatest impact would ultimately come through his tireless service to veterans and their families.

After years in the field, Gregg was looking for a new direction. In 2013, a cold call to WATD Radio led him to launch Veterans Voice, a program dedicated to supporting veterans and their families by connecting them with critical resources and information. He created the show to raise awareness around veterans’ issues and benefits, with topics including healthcare access, GI Bill and Yellow Ribbon benefits, housing, career opportunities, PTSD treatment, legal support, the Valor Acts I and II, and issues affecting women veterans.

Through the program, Gregg has partnered with the Massachusetts Executive Office of Veterans Services, helping amplify awareness of benefits and resources available to veterans in every town across the state. His work has played a key role in connecting veterans and their families with the support systems designed to serve them.

Gregg’s motivation for starting the show came from a simple goal: to help veterans and their families better understand and access the benefits they have earned. Today, he continues to be a strong voice and advocate within the veteran community through his ongoing work on Veterans Voice.

13 years later the impact of that mission has grown far beyond what Gregg ever imagined, reaching thousands of veterans and families and continuing to expand its reach across Massachusetts and beyond.

In 2020, Gregg and his team launched a food donation program for veterans and active-duty service members to help combat food insecurity. The initiative was inspired by an experience serving Thanksgiving dinner to individuals experiencing homelessness, which highlighted the growing need for reliable access to food within the community.

Dubbed “A Drive-Thru to Get You Through,” the program provides monthly food distributions on the second Thursday of every month. What began as a small community effort quickly evolved into a sustained initiative, supported by a dedicated network of volunteers and strengthened through ongoing outreach efforts.

Over the past six years, the program has distributed more than 500,000 pounds of food to veterans, military families, and community members in need. Its impact has continued to grow through partnerships with local organizations, including serving as a beneficiary of the U.S. Postal Service’s annual canned food drive.

For Gregg, the program’s success is measured not only by the pounds of food distributed, but by the connections built through service. As he often says, “We don’t know who smiles more – the people receiving the food or the people giving it away.” Today, the program remains a powerful example of how a simple act of kindness can grow into a lasting community resource.

While addressing food insecurity has been a cornerstone of Gregg’s service to the veteran community, it is far from his only area of focus. Through his work with veterans, Gregg became increasingly aware of another critical challenge facing those who served: Parkinson’s disease.

Recognizing the growing impact of Parkinson’s disease among veterans, Gregg established a dedicated Parkinson’s Pavilion as part of his annual Veteran’s Festival. While Parkinson’s disease affects approximately 1% of the general population, an estimated 11% of veterans are impacted, a disparity often linked to exposure to Agent Orange during military service.

The pavilion brings together leading Parkinson’s researchers, healthcare providers, pharmaceutical companies, and technology innovators under one roof, creating a centralized hub for veterans and their families to learn about the latest developments in treatment, care, and disease management. Organizations such as Boston Scientific have played a key role in connecting attendees with valuable information and support services, helping veterans better understand their options and access the resources they need. 

Through the Parkinson’s Pavilion, Gregg has helped create a space where veterans can access critical information, connect with experts, and find support in addressing one of the most significant health challenges facing the veteran community today.

Gregg’s impact on the veteran community can be measured not only by the programs he has helped create, but by the countless lives he has touched along the way. Through years of dedicated service, he has become a trusted advocate, a connector of people and resources, and a driving force for positive change. At the heart of Gregg’s work is a simple commitment to serving those who have served our country – a commitment that continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of veterans and their families.

The 2026 Veteran’s Music Festival, VA Benefits, and Career Expo will be held on Saturday, July 18, at Pageant Field in Quincy from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Please join Gregg Brasso of Veterans Voice Radio and the New England Free Jacks in celebrating and supporting the veteran community!

Get Involved Today

The Free Jacks are looking for Impact Free Jack nominees from all walks of life and every corner of New England who have the power to transcend boundaries and create a lasting, positive impact on the lives of others. Honorees will be celebrated at each of the Free Jacks’ home games.

This partnership with Massachusetts State Lottery aims to highlight and reward everyday heroes who embody the values of service and community, aligning with the Free Jacks’ mission of making a positive impact both on and off the field.

If you have a colleague, neighbor, friend, or loved one that deserves recognition for their community contributions, please nominate them here.

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

Growing up in Connecticut before moving to Montana during high school, Jen’s introduction to rugby came from an unexpected place: a Lands’ End catalog. While flipping through its pages, she noticed an article about the U.S. Women’s Eagles National Team. Curious about the sport and the possibilities it offered for young female athletes, she became intrigued. What started as a simple magazine feature would eventually shape decades of her life.

When it came time to choose a college, finding a school with a women’s rugby program was a top priority. Jen ultimately attended Colgate College, where she played rugby for four years as a second row and at flanker, developing her skills and passion for the game while competing at a high level.

After graduating from Colgate College, Jen continued her rugby career with Boston Women’s Rugby, where she played for many years and eventually served as club president. During her time in leadership, she helped organize fundraising efforts for the regional finals, which led her to work closely with the Boston Irish Wolfhounds men’s team that would go on to play a major role in her return to rugby.

Jen later continued her playing career with the Charles River Rugby Football Club before retiring from the sport to focus on raising her family. When looking for a way to introduce her son to rugby as he got older, Jen remembered the strong community she had experienced with the Wolfhounds. She enrolled her son in the club’s youth rugby program, reconnecting with the sport that had played such an important role throughout her life.

She initially returned to the rugby community expecting to be just another parent on the sidelines. But before long, the club needed additional support, and Jen was eager to lend a hand. What started as volunteering quickly grew into a much larger role within the organization.

Today, Jen oversees the administrative operations of the youth rugby program, playing a vital role in expanding opportunities for young athletes and helping the organization continue to grow. In addition to her administrative responsibilities, she spent several years as a volunteer coach for young athletes, sharing her knowledge of the game and helping introduce the next generation to the sport she has loved for so much of her life.

From player to club leader, coach, parent, and administrator, Jen’s rugby journey has come full circle. Her dedication and passion continue to make a lasting impact on youth rugby, helping create opportunities for young players to develop both on and off the field, but it doesn’t stop there. 

As Jen became more involved in youth rugby, she recognized a gap in opportunities for girls. While the Wolfhounds offered girls rugby through sixth grade, there were limited options for players who wanted to continue competing in a girls-only environment as they got older. Jen believed that young female athletes deserved a clear pathway to stay in the sport, develop their skills, and grow alongside other girls who shared their passion for rugby.

Driven by that vision, Jen helped launch the Wolfhounds High School Girls team in 2025 and currently serves as the team’s assistant coach. The following year, she expanded those opportunities even further by establishing girls teams for seventh and eighth graders, creating a complete development pathway that allows female athletes to progress through the sport from youth rugby into high school; being one of the first across New England. 

For Jen, the effort extends beyond rugby itself. She believes every girl should have access to opportunities that allow them to grow through sports and gain the confidence that comes from being part of a team.

When asked what the growth of women’s sports means to her, Jen reflected on the impact athletics can have on young athletes’ lives.

“It’s about empowering girls to feel like they can go out into the world and do what they want to do,” she said. “Sports give them the confidence to achieve the things they want to achieve and the belief that they can accomplish them.”

Today, Jen continues to help shape the future of girls rugby in New England, ensuring that the next generation of athletes has the same opportunities that helped shape her own lifelong connection to the game. As she likes to say, “Rugby is the best-kept secret in Greater Boston for kids.”

We are proud to honor Jen Fedin for her years of dedicated volunteering, and the lasting impact she had made for girls rugby. 

Get Involved Today

The Free Jacks are looking for Impact Free Jack nominees from all walks of life and every corner of New England who have the power to transcend boundaries and create a lasting, positive impact on the lives of others. Honorees will be celebrated at each of the Free Jacks’ home games.

This partnership with Massachusetts State Lottery aims to highlight and reward everyday heroes who embody the values of service and community, aligning with the Free Jacks’ mission of making a positive impact both on and off the field.

If you have a colleague, neighbor, friend, or loved one that deserves recognition for their community contributions, please nominate them here.

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

Patty Keanneally Donovan, a local trailblazer, is Boston’s first female firefighter and has served the city since 1984. She was inspired to join the department by her father and two brothers, all of whom also served as Boston firefighters.

She left nursing school, trading scrubs for bunker gear, and became the only woman in a class of 56 appointed to the Boston Fire Department. Joining 1,500 male colleagues, Patty became a natural advocate for women in the fire service and a pioneer for those who would follow in her footsteps.

Though she says she originally took the test “for fun,” that decision turned into more than 40 years of dedicated service to her community. Spending over 24 years on firetrucks, and the last 18 in fire investigation, Patty has built a career defined by both frontline response and detailed investigative work, becoming a respected and enduring presence in the Boston Fire Department.

Being the nation’s oldest fire department, Boston’s Fire Department carries a deep legacy of service and dedication. Patty Kenneally Donovan, has carried out that service like no other.
With the goal of encouraging more women to join the fire service, Patty reflects on the impact she’s seen through her work, noting that change has become more visible in recent years. Today, there are about 35 female firefighters and counting who have joined the Boston Fire Department. She says “It’s taken a long time. I’ve seen more women on the job in the past 5 – 8 years than in the first 30.” Her career stands as both a testament to progress made and a reminder of the work still ahead in building a more representative fire service.

We are honored to recognize Patty Keanneally Donovan as our 2026 Impact Free Jack nominee for her role in shaping both the legacy and the future of the Boston Fire Department. Her decades of service have left a lasting impact on the department and the community it serves. She stands as a foundational figure whose career continues to inspire the next generation of firefighters.

Get Involved Today

The Free Jacks are looking for Impact Free Jack nominees from all walks of life and every corner of New England who have the power to transcend boundaries and create a lasting, positive impact on the lives of others. Honorees will be celebrated at each of the Free Jacks’ home games.

This partnership with Massachusetts State Lottery aims to highlight and reward everyday heroes who embody the values of service and community, aligning with the Free Jacks’ mission of making a positive impact both on and off the field.

If you have a colleague, neighbor, friend, or loved one that deserves recognition for their community contributions, please nominate them here.

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

If you haven’t already, meet Barbara and Kenny Thomson, two of our founding season members, and founders of the 1st Regiment Supporters Club, one that has stuck with the team every step of the way. They’ve been part of the journey since the very beginning and remain a cornerstone of the Free Jacks community; always advocating for grassroots rugby in New England, and sharing the game with others that means so much to them.

Kenny, who grew up playing rugby, has experienced firsthand what makes the game so special. Together, he and Barbara have carried that passion forward by giving back to the game that has given them so much. Traveling to every away match, introducing new fans to the sport, and building a supporter group that has become the glue of the Free Jacks community. For years their commitment to the team has become evident, but they don’t stop there.

For each home match, Kenny and Barb donate to the Free Jacks Foundation for every successful conversion kick. Through the years, their generosity has helped extend the team’s impact far beyond the field.

Over time, they have contributed to more than 200 school visits and Rugby-in-a-Bag programs, putting a rugby ball into thousands of children’s hands for the very first time and giving young athletes across the region the chance to discover the game.

What makes their contribution so special is not just the scale, but the lasting influence. Every clinic, every school visit, every child picking up a rugby ball is part of the legacy Barbara and Kenny have helped build.

Get Involved Today

The Free Jacks are looking for Impact Free Jack nominees from all walks of life and every corner of New England who have the power to transcend boundaries and create a lasting, positive impact on the lives of others. Honorees will be celebrated at each of the Free Jacks’ home games.

This partnership with Massachusetts State Lottery aims to highlight and reward everyday heroes who embody the values of service and community, aligning with the Free Jacks’ mission of making a positive impact both on and off the field.

If you have a colleague, neighbor, friend, or loved one that deserves recognition for their community contributions, please nominate them here.

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

Prior to the end of the regular season, the New England Free Jacks gathered for their annual awards banquet—a night dedicated to celebrating success, reflecting on an incredible season, and honoring the players, staff, and families who make it all possible.

Hosted by Breakrock Brewing, the event brought together the Free Jacks community for an evening of camaraderie and recognition. From standout performances to inspiring contributions on and off the field, the awards highlighted the heart and soul of the 2025 Free Jacks.

Try of the Year

Winner: Paula Balekana – Round 12 vs. Houston Sabercats (Home)

Paula Balekana’s Round 12 effort was nothing short of spectacular: a cleverly executed chip kick from Dan Hollinshead set the play in motion, followed by Le Roux Malan’s perfectly weighted punt that Balekana chased down to score a breathtaking full-field try.

Other nominees: Cam Nordli-Kelemeti (Round 12), Paula Balekana (Round 1), Andrew Quattrin (Round 7).

Quincy College Rookie of the Year

Winner: Brock Webster

The Canadian rising star made an immediate impact in his first full professional season in XVs rugby. Transitioning from wing to fullback, Webster showcased aerial dominance and versatility, finishing the season with 894 carry meters, 11 linebreaks, and a well-earned 2025 MLR Championship MVP award.

Other nominee: Kaipono Kayoshi.

Breakthrough Player of the Year

Winner: Tevita Sole

A dynamic force since joining the Free Jacks in 2022, Sole took his game to another level in 2025. Known for his mobility in open play and technical growth in the set piece, Sole delivered 37 carries, 11 linebreaks, and 64 tackles across 12 appearances—proving himself as one of the squad’s most improved performers.

Other nominees: Brock Webster, Cam Nordli-Kelemeti.

Community Impact Award

Winner: Thomas “Wheels” Grant

A pillar of the New England rugby community, Grant’s tireless efforts include leading the Free Jacks’ academy programs and raising over $10,000 for the Boys & Girls Club of Dorchester through his Boston Marathon campaign. From school outreach to mixed-ability rugby programs, Grant continues to strengthen the sport’s grassroots foundation.

Forward of the Year

Winner: Andrew Quattrin

The Free Jacks’ cornerstone hooker had another dominant season, anchoring a lineout with an 86% success rate and leading the pack with 129 tackles and 5 tries. Quattrin’s physicality and consistency cemented his reputation as one of MLR’s premier forwards.

Other nominees: Joe Johnston, Jed Melvin.

Back of the Year

Winner: Le Roux Malan

The Namibian international and vice-captain showcased his all-around game, contributing 980 carry meters, 52 tackle breaks, and 54 kicks for 1,377 meters over 17 matches. Malan’s attacking creativity and defensive toughness made him a constant threat and a leader in the backline.

Other nominee: Paula Balekana.

2024 Minuteman Award

Winner: Andrew Quattrin

The most prestigious Free Jacks honor, the Minuteman Award recognizes a player who embodies selflessness, leadership, and community spirit. Quattrin’s contributions extended far beyond the pitch, from organizing charity initiatives like Operation Sock Drop and Quincy Veterans Food Delivery to championing mixed-ability rugby programs and supporting local nonprofits.

Players’ Player of the Year

Winner: Jed Melvin

Melvin’s first full season with the club was a breakout year. The hard-hitting flanker finished 6th in MLR for tries (9)and 6th for dominant tackles (17) while racking up 789 carry meters and 176 total tackles. His blend of work rate and finishing ability made him a force to be reckoned with.

Other nominees: Andrew Quattrin, Paula Balekana, Joe Johnston.

Delta Player of the Year

Winner: Le Roux Malan

For the second time of the night, Malan’s name was called. With 59 career appearances and his best season yet, Malan was instrumental in guiding the Free Jacks to another championship run. His leadership in the midfield and versatility on attack and defense solidified his place as the team’s MVP.

Other nominee: Jed Melvin.

Looking Ahead

The 2025 Awards Night not only honored the exceptional performances of this season but also highlighted the Free Jacks’ deep connection to their community and culture. With leaders like Quattrin, Malan, and Melvin setting the tone—and young talents like Webster emerging—the future of New England rugby looks brighter than 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

In a season where balance was everything, Ryan Martin struck it perfectly—blending experience and continuity with a sharp, evolving edge. Today, Major League Rugby officially named Martin the 2025 Coach of the Year, a fitting tribute to the architect behind the New England Free Jacks’ historic third consecutive championship.

Returning to Quincy for his second year at the helm after the departure of former head coach Scott Mathie, Martin brought not just familiarity, but a sharpened lens forged through his recent stints in some of the world’s toughest rugby environments. Following a year with the Melbourne Rebels (2022) and two seasons in Japan with Toyota Verblitz (2023, 2024), Martin returned with fresh ideas. That mix—something old and something new—proved to be the perfect formula.

Under his guidance, the Free Jacks posted a 14-5 record. Martin’s belief in rotation and backing every player wasn’t just lip service. With the “Rule of 3” campaign living and breathing within the hyper-connected Free Jacks off-field environment, Ryan championed the principle that a team’s true strength lies in its depth. When key playmakers like Jayson Potroz and Faletoi Peni went down injured, Martin didn’t panic. He pivoted and course-corrected. 

Defensively, the Free Jacks were once again the gold standard. They conceded the fewest tries per game in the league (2.79) and led the MLR in dominant tackles (223)—a staggering 44 more than the next closest team. Add in a league-best 44 forced turnovers, and it’s clear the Free Jacks’ identity as a relentless defensive unit remained intact under Martin’s stewardship.

Martin sharpened the Free Jacks’ attack in 2025, blending structure with unpredictability. The team led the league in kicking, averaging 25 kicks and over 700 meters per game, while also dominating set-piece—with a league-best 32 defensive lineout steals and an 86% success rate on attack. Just when opponents thought they had them figured out, the Free Jacks would strike—averaging 5.63 linebreaks and 23.16 tackle breaks per game. That variation in tempo and point of attack was what made Martin’s Free Jacks nearly impossible to contain.

Ryan Martin stands not just as a tactical mastermind, but as one of the engines behind one of the most dominant stretches in MLR history. Something old, something new—and undeniably something special. 

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

A Fijian Force, a Free Jack Phenomenon, the League’s Best

The New England Free Jacks are proud to celebrate one of their own, as explosive winger Paula Balekana has officially been named the 2025 Major League Rugby Player of the Year in his 4th season at the club. The honor caps off another sensational season for the Fijian flyer, whose dazzling runs, bone-rattling defense, and relentless work rate helped power the Free Jacks to another deep post-season run.

A Season of Impact and Fireworks

Balekana’s 2025 season was a masterclass in modern wing play. Equal parts speed, power, and finesse, Paula equalled his own try scoring record set in 2023, finding the try line 15 times over the course of the year, the most of any player this season—cementing his place as one of the league’s most feared finishers. But his impact extended far beyond the scoreboard.

• 1213 meters made (6th in MLR)
• 17 linebreaks (2nd in MLR)
• 118 ball carries 
• 70 tackles made (12 dominant at 17%)

These stats tell the story of a complete player—one who thrives on both sides of the ball and doesn’t shy away from the dirty work. From attacking line breaks to critical defensive stands, Balekana’s fingerprints were all over the Free Jacks’ campaign.

His excellence was recognized weekly, with Balekana earning MLR Team of the Week honors five times (Rounds 8, 10, 12, 13, and 16) and being named Player of the Week twice (Rounds 8 and 10).

A Career Spanning Continents

Born and raised in Suva, Fiji, Paula sharpened his skills at Kelston Boys’ High School before launching a professional career that took him across the rugby world.

• Gordon Highlanders (2016–17) – Shute Shield, Australia

   

• Sydney Rays (2017) – National Rugby Championship, Australia

   

• Zebre Parma (2018–20) – United Rugby Championship, Italy

   

• Houston SaberCats (2021) – MLR debut

   

• New England Free Jacks (2022–present)

• Hawke’s Bay (2023) – NPC, New Zealand

   

Since joining the Free Jacks in 2022, Balekana has become a fan favorite in Quincy. He surpassed 100-point and 50 appearance milestones for the club this season and continues to embody the spirit of Free Jacks rugby: bold, unyielding, and full of joy.

“Since pulling on the Free Jacks jersey in 2022, Paula has firmly established himself as Major League Rugby’s premier finisher,” said Free Jacks General Manager, Tom Kindley. “This season, his impact was immense—he consistently came up with game-changing moments on both sides of the ball, drawing on his experience and dogged drive to succeed. Off the field, Paula and his wife Setaita welcomed their second child, Leilani, prior to the season. We’ve seen firsthand how hard they’ve worked, and we’re thrilled to see that dedication recognized.”

Legacy Sealed, Future Still Bright

Winning the league’s top individual award is a testament to both Balekana’s brilliance and his tireless commitment to his craft. But for those who’ve seen him train, play, and inspire teammates, the accolade comes as no surprise. At 32-years of age, Balekana is showing no signs of slowing down.

Free Jacks fans will remember the diving tries, sideline bursts, and match-turning tackles—but also the humility and heart that make Paula Balekana a leader on and off the field.

As we celebrate this historic milestone, one thing is clear: the best may be yet to come.

Congratulations, Paula, Player of the Year, and forever a Free Jack.

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 New England Free Jacks faced off against the Houston SaberCats on Saturday for the MLR (Major League Rugby) championship at the Centreville Bank Stadium in Pawtucket, RI, and were able to clinch the three-peat to win their third straight MLR Shield. There were 5,702, mostly Free Jack fans, in attendance for this record breaking first final match in New England. 

New England made the short trip from Quincy with the chance to make league history, and followed through. The Free Jacks are the first ever MLR team to win three championship titles and the first to ever go back-to-back-to-back. The feat was quickly christened as the “Three-Jack”.

One of the most unique elements of the 2025 MLR Final was that the Free Jacks only had to travel 45 minutes south, so the team was able to make that smooth transition from Quincy to game time in Pawtucket. Because of this, New England was the favorite coming in but the SaberCats battled for the entire 80 plus minutes of play.

Seven minutes into the match, the Free Jacks put the first points on the board, which resulted from a penalty kick from Dan Hollishead. Just four minutes later, the SaberCats followed suit and AJ Alatimu converted a penalty kick of his own, which tied the score at 3-3. 

In the 14th minute, New England scored their first try of the match, which resulted from a scrum at midfield. The Free Jacks efficiently moved the ball from the right touch line all the way to Paula Balekena on the left side, who crossed the line with an impressive assist from Brock Webster. After the successful conversion from Hollinshead, the score sat at 10-3.

Just four minutes later, the Free Jacks opted to go for another penalty kick. This was successful, from Hollinshead, and the score was brought to 13-3.

In the 22nd minute, Houston scored their first try of the match, Max Schumacher touching it down, which brought the score to 13-10 and put the SaberCats right back in the match. 

Houston had an opportunity to put more points on the board with a penalty kick in the 28th minute, but Alatimu was not able to slot the ball between the posts. 

Houston’s defense came into full force at the end of the first half, holding the Free Jacks off from potentially scoring two tries within the last two minutes. The score at halftime sat at 13-10 with the Free Jacks leading. 

Just five minutes later, Houston followed in New England’s footsteps and scored their second try of the match, Drake Davis putting it down. After the conversion, the score sat at 20-17, with the Free Jacks holding a slim three point lead. 

Nearly 60 minutes into the match, New England opted for a kick to try and increase their lead, which was successful and brought the score to 23-17.

In the 61st minute, the Free Jacks were given a yellow card, and had to battle through a minus one man disadvantage for the next ten minutes of the match. 

Eight minutes later, Balekana capped it for the Free Jacks when he scored his second try of the match off a Webster assist, raising New England’s lead to 28-17.

With just two minutes left in the championship match, Houston was able to sneak in one more try from Schumacher, bringing the score to 28-22 for the final play of the game. 

After a hard fought season, the Free Jacks were finally able to clinch the championship title for the third year in a row, and secure the three-peat they had been hunting for all season. 

Head Coach Ryan Martin reflected on the major win for both the team as well as the league, saying how everything the team has done all year has been for the three-peat. 

“We addressed the three-peat on the very first day of winter camp because it would be easy to hide from it, so we had to have an attitude of doing things no one’s ever done before,” said Martin. “It’s cool to get to the point and actually achieve what we instilled a long time ago.”

Brock Webster was named Player of the Match, for his speedy plays and impressive efforts up and down the pitch all match. He spoke to the grit of winning a championship, and what comes with that feeling. 

“It’s a long season, every team faces the challenges of the physicality of the league. As the year goes on, you have to rely on your depth and I think that’s something our organization does so well,” said Webster. 

Regarding the three-peat and what may be next for the team, the Free Jacks co-founder, Alex Magleby, said the team will definitely be embracing the feeling.

“This is our history now, and that is awesome. The history of this community, of New England, goes into the sporting lore that helps us narrate to the future why you want to be a part of this experience,” Magleby said. 

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 New England Free Jacks took on the Chicago Hounds in the Eastern Conference Finals at Fort Quincy on Saturday afternoon, the Free Jacks were able to clinch the victory by a score of 21-20, by a difference of one point.

In what may go down as the best match in Major League Rugby history This match was one of, if not the most important match of the season for the two teams. The Free Jacks have been well versed with their competitor, as they have faced off against the Hounds twice this season, with one home and one away match. New England fell short to Chicago in early March, but were able to come out victorious at home in mid May.

Similarly to this season, the Free Jacks faced off against the Hounds in the league semifinals last season. New England was able to win by a score of 23-17 and moved on to the championship game to eventually clinch the MLR (Major League Rugby) title. 

This game was especially important to New England as it was their chance to make history for the team, and simultaneously bring attention to the league. When Free Jacks attend the championship game in one week, they will have a shot at the three-peat, the first team to win three championships, consecutively, in the league. 

This season is similar to last season in terms of the two teams’ record against each other in the regular season, both teams each won a game before facing off against each other in the semis. 

The match concluded with the Hounds missing a penalty kick, the ball went off the post and eventually out of bounds in the 80th minute, leaving the Free Jacks to clinch the win with one point to spare. 

The play of the game however, was in the middle of the first half, when Paula Balekana ran down the length of the pitch, and tackled a Chicago player just before they were able to touch the ball down across the try line. 

Regarding that game shifting play, Balekana talked about the effort that was put into that tackle, and then spoke to the rest of the team’s effort throughout the duration of this extremely important match. 

“I’m very proud of the boys’ performance today,” Balekana said. 

Coach Martin spoke to the intense victory, saying how the team will most likely keep the same coaching tactics heading into the biggest game of the season, as they have clearly worked thus far. 

“The whole year we’ve been aiming for this game to be honest. Everything we’ve done is around the rule of three’s, being chasing the three-peat, so we’re probably going to keep doing what we’ve been doing,” said Martin. 

The New England Free Jacks will be playing the championship match in Pawtucket, RI on June 28th at 2pm, and will either be facing off against Utah or Houston. 

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

Match Preview: New England Free Jacks vs. Chicago Hounds

June 21, 2025

Date: Sat June 21st
Time: Kickoff 1pm, Gates open 10am
Location: Veterans Memorial Stadium, Quincy MA
Broadcast: NBC Sports Boston | ESPN2 | ESPN+

As the 2025 regular season comes to a close, the New England Free Jacks are ready to make their last stand at Veterans Memorial Stadium in front of their passionate home crowd. This Saturday’s clash with the Chicago Hounds marks an exciting rematch of the 2024 Eastern Conference Finals and is set to be a thrilling encounter between two of the league’s top teams.

With the stakes high and a trip to the Championship Final looming, the Free Jacks are determined to close out their home campaign with a performance that matches the intensity and excitement of the season so far.

Coaches’ Comments:

The team has had a week of solid preparation and is primed for what promises to be a physical and fast-paced match against a formidable Chicago squad.

“We’re expecting hot conditions, and that’s something we thrive in,” said Head Coach Ryan Martin. “Our forward pack is lean and mean, and our backs are fit and fast, so these conditions suit us perfectly. We’re looking forward to putting on a celebration performance of our season and finishing strong at home.”

The Free Jacks have been on a roll lately, with a focus on fine-tuning their game, and Coach Martin believes the energy from the home crowd will play a huge role in the outcome.

Andrew Quattrin: Player Perspective

For Andrew Quattrin, the Free Jacks’ influential hooker, hosting a playoff-caliber match in front of New England’s fans is incredibly special.

Reflecting on the Free Jacks’ recent win over Miami, Quattrin acknowledged the tough start but was proud of the team’s ability to weather the storm and take control:
“Miami gave us a good fight early on, and their back row made it difficult for us at times. But we stuck to our game plan and consistency in defense gave us the upper hand. It was key for us to stay tight, especially around the breakdown.”

Quattrin is also excited for the upcoming challenge against Chicago and emphasized the importance of the home crowd in making this match extra meaningful.

“Hosting is huge. Our fans give us so much energy, and the vibe in the stadium is unreal,” Quattrin added. “This game is a big one before we look ahead to next week, but we have to focus on Chicago first. It would mean a lot to get the win here in front of our fans before heading into the Championship Final.”

Match Stats & Storylines:

• Rematch of the 2024 Eastern Conference Finals: This matchup sees the Free Jacks face the Chicago Hounds once again, a team that gave them a tough fight last season.

• Top of the East: The Free Jacks sit at No. 1 in the Eastern Conference, just ahead of the Hounds (No. 2), but both teams share identical records. New England currently holds a two-point advantage due to their edge in bonus points.

• Impressive Defense: Both teams have been defensive powerhouses all season long. The Free Jacks (48) and the Hounds (50) have allowed the fewest tries in the league, making this a battle between two of the league’s stingiest defenses.

• Current Form: Chicago enters with a four-game win streak, while New England is on a three-game streak of their own.

Players to Watch:

• Chicago – Peyton Wall: Wall is a major offensive threat for the Hounds, carrying for 116 meters in Chicago’s win over Old Glory DC last week. He scored a try and made key contributions in attack, but he’ll need to sharpen his tackling for a complete performance in New England.

• New England – Wian Conradie: Conradie has been a rock in New England’s defense all season. With 17 tackles and a forced turnover in their previous game, he is instrumental in keeping the Free Jacks’ defense intact. Alongside Paula Balekana, Conradie’s efforts will be crucial in denying Chicago’s attack.

Previous Matchups in 2025:

• March 2, 2025 – Chicago Hounds 36, New England Free Jacks 7: The Free Jacks suffered a tough loss in this early season clash. Despite a strong individual effort from Jayson Potroz, Chicago was dominant, outgaining New England by over 300 meters.

• May 10, 2025 – New England Free Jacks 27, Chicago Hounds 17: The Free Jacks bounced back with a solid home win. The team scored four tries, with contributions from Joe Johnston, Jed Melvin, Cam Nordli-Kelemeti, and Paula Balekana. New England’s defense kept the Hounds from scoring in the second half.

How to Watch:

• Broadcast: ESPN2, ESPN+

This Saturday’s match will be one for the books, with both teams fighting for supremacy in the Eastern Conference. The Free Jacks are focused on delivering an exhilarating performance in front of their loyal fans, while Chicago will look to keep their momentum rolling as they prepare for the playoffs. Don’t miss out on what’s sure to be an unforgettable night of rugby!

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