In partnership with NERFU

Welcome to the Free Jacks Community Corner, where we celebrate the people, clubs, and stories that make New England rugby so special. In partnership with NERFU, we’re bringing you highlights from across the region and showcasing the passion that drives our rugby community forward. This week we are highlighting the amazing women’s competitions that kick-off this weekend

We see a relatively slow weekend of Rugby in the adult competition with many teams on a BYE week in honor of Indigenous People’s day (Mon Oct. 13th)

This weekend, the Men’s Division 2 competition has two games that are shaping up to be thrillers. Worcester (3-1) travels to Malden to take on undefeated Mystic River (4-0), while the Boston Irish Wolfhounds D2 (3-1) go to Union Point to challenge Boston Rugby Club (3-1). These two matches will determine who sits at the top of the table going into the final week of the regular season. Charles River (1-4) will take on Portland (1-3), and Newport (0-5) has a bye. Unlike in previous years, all seven teams will make the playoffs. The quarterfinals weekend, on October 25th, will feature 2vs7, 3vs6, and 2vs5, while the 1st ranked team gets a bye. 

Men’s Division 3 has a division wide bye. 

Men’s Division 4 has only two games this weekend: Monadnock Valley Mountain Wolves (1-3) vs Mad River (3-1-0) and Boston (2-2) vs New London County (4-0).  

Burlington (0-3) hosting Hartford (1-1) is the only league match for Women’s + Division 2 this weekend, though Providence (4-0) is hosting a round robin with Boston and Springfield Rugby Clubs. 

After coming off a narrow 3-point win last weekend, Amoskeag travels to Upper Valley Valkyries,  and Saratoga goes to Seacoast for a pair of Women’s + Division 3 match-ups..  

Local College Highlights

There are multiple teams in New England featured in the NCR top 10 rankings:

Men

• Brown (#2) and Dartmouth (#6) in Division 1
• UVM ranked #4 in Division 2
• Nichols College ranked #5 in Division 3

Women

• Northeastern ranked #6 in D1-AA
• Fairfield (#4) and UNH (#10) in Division 2
• Endicott (#1), Yale (#2), Colby (#8), and Smith (#10) in Division 3

Reference: https://www.ncr.rugby/coaches-poll-25-26

In NCAA, Harvard Women and Dartmouth Women are currently ranked #1 and #3 respectively. 

Reference: https://nira.rugby/standings/

Off the field

North Shore is turning their “BYE” week into a “WHY” week: 

“We’re finding new ways to make an impact beyond the scoreboard and showing what being part of a team really means.” 

🏉Adaptive Rugby Session with @northeastarc 

Sunday, October 12th 

10:15am – 12pm

Bishop Fenwick High School

🩸Blood Cancer “Light the Night” Fundraising Campaign

From now through October 16th, join our efforts with @nefreejacks and @northshorerugby to raise money for blood cancer awareness. You can donate to our fundraising page here: https://pages.lls.org/ltn/ma/BostonL25/northshorewomensrugby

Instagram link: https://www.instagram.com/p/DPeShD5DqIZ/?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet

Is your team doing anything cool off the field? Let us know so we can feature in a future Community Corner post!

Email: seniorclub@nerfu.rugby

Free Jacks on Tour

Catch the players, staff and the MLR Championship Shields at our upcoming Community Events where we will be engaging with local rugby clubs and delivering clinics for all ages!

• October 17 – 19th in Burlington VT (Community Celebration Weekend) – SEE HERE 

Thank you for being part of the Free Jacks family and supporting rugby across New England. Together with NERFU, we look forward to celebrating more stories from our incredible community each week.

In partnership with NERFU

Welcome to the Free Jacks Community Corner, where we celebrate the people, clubs, and stories that make New England rugby so special. In partnership with NERFU, we’re bringing you highlights from across the region and showcasing the passion that drives our rugby community forward. This week we are highlighting the men’s competitions that got underway last weekend. 

It has been fantastic to see some tight matches right across the board in the opening few weeks of NERFU Rugby! A reminder that you can follow along with the schedules and standings via the rugby xplorer website at this link.

For this week’s Match of the Week we are previewing an exciting Women’s match-up between North Shore RFC and the newcomers to the league, Saratoga! Here is what both clubs had to say about the upcoming encounter below.

Words from the Sheds:

North Shore RFC: 

What does this game mean to you? To the Club?

When one team grows, we all grow. North Shore is thrilled to welcome Saratoga into our league. We had the chance to face them at the Cabot Cup back in April and it was a blast! Saratoga is a skilled, hardworking group that has already accomplished so much in building their club. As a captain and e-board member, I know how much behind the scenes work goes into running a team, and for a new club it’s tenfold. We’re excited to support their journey, share the pitch with them again, and build on that strong foundation. Plus, we’re grateful they’re making the trip to Salem for this matchup.

What do you expect from this match?

High energy and high impact. This will be a physical, hard-hitting game with plenty of intensity on both sides. We’re ready for the challenge and can’t wait to bring the vibes.

How’s the season going so far?

North Shore has been in a season of growth. We’re fortunate to have such a dedicated group of players and coaches advancing our rugby knowledge to new levels. We’re testing ourselves with new strategies, stepping into new territory, and staying united through it all. Our season opener showed how far we’ve come: just this spring, we lost to Amoskeag 82-5. Last weekend, we went toe to toe and narrowly fell 24-27. That kind of progress speaks volumes. We’re learning, adapting, and getting better every time we step on the field.

• Katherine Gorham, North Shore RFC

 Saratoga Rugby Football Club:

What does this game mean to you? To the Club?

For Saratoga, this game is all about the roots of rugby. The “why” we play good clean rugby. What plants us into the ground and keeps us growing in the sport and community. Lots of us have played for other clubs or never played at all. So a group of strong and independent women coming together to play a sport we have grown to love, is huge. 

This sport has taught myself and so many women the importance of physical strength, but more importantly, mental strength. Many of The Fillies have found new strength in themselves they didn’t know they had. 

This is the second e-board I’ve sat on for a rugby team, my previous one being my college team at SUNY Brockport. There’s so much that goes into getting something this big to get up and running. The fact that we are just a year into developing The Fillies, this is an incredible opportunity to be apart of NERFU. 

What do you expect from this match?

Personally I am excepting a lot of high energy and good competition. The Fillies are using this season to put ourselves on the map in the rugby community and we are excited to see what we can accomplish. Plus we are very grateful for how amazing the opposing NERFU teams have been towards us. 

How’s the season going so far?

This season has been a huge learning curve on and off the pitch. We are fortunate to have so many new women who are interested in the sport so we are developing the next generation of the rugby community. Passing on the love and knowledge for on and off the field has been beyond incredible to be apart of. 

The Fillies season opener didn’t go as planned against Amoskeg losing 7-80 but those seven points were fought hard for. We plan to step onto the field again remembering our roots for some more good clean regardless of the outcome.

• Mackenzie Lawrence, Saratoga Rugby Club

Unite to Fight Blood Cancer 

This month, the Free Jacks are partnering with Blood Cancer United to raise money to benefit patients battling blood cancer. The club that raises the most will receive a bag of Gilbert balls. Here’s how you can get involved:

• Make a Donation: Every dollar counts in the fight. 
• Create a Fundraising Page: Team Captains, please be sure to create your team here: Boston | Light The Night | Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Click the Register Button!  Once you have completed this, please email Abbey Gill (abbey.gill@lls.org) or Matt Kennedy (matt.Kennedy@lls.org) confirming you have signed up for your team and they will link your team to the Free Jacks!
• Share Your Toughest Photos. Share photos/stories on social media, showing your team’s warrior mentality, and call for donations to support those battling leukemia and other blood cancers. Tag us and use the hashtag #UniteToFight to help spread the word.

Free Jacks on Tour

Catch the players, staff and the MLR Championship Shields at our upcoming Community Events where we will be engaging with local rugby clubs and delivering clinics for all ages!

• Sep 28th in Seacoast New Hampshire (Community Clinic) – SEE HERE
• October 4th and 5th in Portland ME (Community Celebration Weekend) – SEE HERE
• October 17 – 19th in Burlington VT (Community Celebration Weekend) – SEE HERE 

Thank you for being part of the Free Jacks family and supporting rugby across New England. Together with NERFU, we look forward to celebrating more stories from our incredible community each week.

In partnership with NERFU

Welcome to the Free Jacks Community Corner, where we celebrate the people, clubs, and stories that make New England rugby so special. In partnership with NERFU, we’re bringing you highlights from across the region and showcasing the passion that drives our rugby community forward. This week we are highlighting the men’s competitions that got underway last weekend. 

NERFU Men’s Division 3 Match of the Week – Zachary Boswell

“NERFU is extremely excited for this match between the 2024/2025 NERFU D3 finalists! Albany and BIW are powerhouses in NERFU Men’s D3, and this match is definitely worth watching! Best of luck to BIW and Albany. Play hard!

The full schedule across the league can be found here

Words from the Sheds:

Boston Irish Wolfhounds:
“The Wolfhounds D3 are looking forward to the trek out west to Albany this year for a rematch of an epic D3 final. Last year’s matches against Albany were both huge tests and each game was in the balance until the final whistle. This year’s iteration of the Hounds D3 is largely unchanged, with a core of players that remain. But several players have been promoted to our D2 squad. Notably 2nd rower Jack “Moose” Fleming and backrower Teddy Curtis. Additionally, some new personnel have joined the club and are already making a mark like Walker Bartkiewicz and James Cronin. After a comfortable win against Amoskeag the Hounds look to keep the momentum against Albany as the meat of their season begins. Coach Ed Guitton is proud of the work put in by the lads in the preseason and the training sessions, but knows that this will be a huge challenge against an always talented and deep Albany side that’s surely looking to exact some revenge after last year’s NERFU Final” – Adam Zilcoski, Club President 

Albany Knickerbocker Rugby Football Club:
“This weekend last year’s top two clubs will battle in what should be an exciting match in NERFU Division 3.  I have been asked what this game means to the Knicks and to me but truth be told, my focus is off the field.  My thoughts are with our club member Michael Jones, better known as Jonesy

I first started playing with Jonesy in 2007 and three things were apparent.  First, he has a personality that is larger than life.  Second, he is a club legend on the rugby field know for his never quit attitude and old school toughness. Third, that despite giving me numerous tips after training about playing flyhalf, I knew he never played that position himself.  Truth be told, I couldn’t understand most of the tips anyways.  

As with any contact sport, injuries are unpredictable and unavoidable.  In 2010 while playing with another club against the Boston Irish Wolfhounds, Jonesy suffered a spinal cord injury after a collapsed scrum that left him with life altering injuries.  Thankfully, world rugby has altered the laws of the game since 2010 to make these injuries less likely.  

In an amazing display of what the lifelong bonds formed playing rugby can accomplish, community and club members came together to create a trust and fundraiser to help and provide care for Jonesy and his family.  The Jonesy Open golf fundraiser was founded and has been so successful that Friday 9/19 will be the last Jonesy Open. Friends and Knicks from all over the country will be at the Jonesy Open to create yet another memory with our friend.  Those memories will extend to the next day when the Albany Knickerbockers will once again face the Boston Irish Wolfhounds, two clubs at the top of the Division 3 table and two clubs that epitomize NERFU community rugby. 

Reflecting back on the original question, what does this match mean to the club and to me? For the club, a win on Saturday would put us in a prime position to qualify for the division 3 final which will be held in November.  It will be difficult, as the Hounds always give us a fight.  For me, I hope I’m selected to wear the royal blue Knicks shirt one more time.  While I can’t measure up to the man Michael Jones is, I hope I can live up to his fighting spirit on the rugby pitch.”  – Tom Breslin, President

Unite to Fight Blood Cancer 

This month, the Free Jacks are partnering with Blood Cancer United to raise money to benefit patients battling blood cancer. The club that raises the most will receive a bag of Gilbert balls. Here’s how you can get involved:

• Make a Donation: Every dollar counts in the fight. 
• Create a Fundraising Page: Team Captains, please be sure to create your team here: Boston | Light The Night | Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Click the Register Button!  Once you have completed this, please email Abbey Gill (abbey.gill@lls.org) or Matt Kennedy (matt.Kennedy@lls.org) confirming you have signed up for your team and they will link your team to the Free Jacks!
• Share Your Toughest Photos. Share photos/stories on social media, showing your team’s warrior mentality, and call for donations to support those battling leukemia and other blood cancers. Tag us and use the hashtag #UniteToFight to help spread the word.

Free Jacks on Tour

Catch the players, staff and the MLR Championship Shields at our upcoming Community Events where we will be engaging with local rugby clubs and delivering clinics for all ages!

• Sep 28th in Seacoast New Hampshire (Community Clinic) – SEE HERE
• October 4th and 5th in Portland ME (Community Celebration Weekend) – SEE HERE
• October 17 – 19th in Burlington VT (Community Celebration Weekend) – SEE HERE 

Thank you for being part of the Free Jacks family and supporting rugby across New England. Together with NERFU, we look forward to celebrating more stories from our incredible community each week.

In partnership with NERFU

Welcome to the Free Jacks Community Corner, where we celebrate the people, clubs, and stories that make New England rugby so special. In partnership with NERFU, we’re bringing you highlights from across the region and showcasing the passion that drives our rugby community forward. This week we are highlighting the men’s competitions that got underway last weekend. 

Jared Rozowsky – VP of Senior Rugby for NERFU

“We enter Week Two of the NERFU competition this weekend, with more exciting rugby ahead”.

Division 2 Recap

Week One featured two tight games, with Worcester edging out Portland 28–24 and Mystic defeating Newport 31–24. Week Two is set up for more close contests, as Portland travels to Mystic and Charles River takes on Newport—a team they beat by six points last year.

Division 4 Recap

Week One delivered some exciting, high-scoring rugby, with teams averaging 25 points each. In a rare weather event, Massachusetts experienced tornado warnings and severe rain, leading to the Springfield vs. Cape Cod match being paused in the 51st minute.

This year, 10 teams are competing in NERFU Division 4: the eight returning sides from last year, plus new entries from both Worcester and Boston.

Match(es) of the Week Preview

This week features a doubleheader between Worcester and Boston’s Division 2 and Division 4 sides—the only two clubs in the league with teams in both divisions. It’s encouraging to see rugby growing within these clubs and the increasing need for multiple competitive sides. 

At this past year’s AGM, D2 representatives collectively agreed to encourage clubs to support multiple competitive sides, moving away from the traditional B-side model, which has had mixed success. Mystic River and the Boston Irish Wolfhounds already field multiple competitive teams (ARP/D2 and D2/D3, respectively) and have seen sustained success as clubs over the past several years. The NERFU Board hopes these clubs can serve as models for building competitive rugby through growth and player retention.

The full schedule across the league can be found here

Words from the Sheds:

Boston Rugby
“Worcester’s leadership has been laying down a blueprint for how to grow a local club with heart, hustle, and hard work. But when the whistle blows, it’s all-out war. Playing Worcester feels like a family reunion—if your family had mullets and tackled you full speed. These matches are grassroots rugby at its best, featuring brutal physicality, real skill, and rowdy fans. Both clubs hit hard, run fast, and leave it all on the pitch. Plus, the post-match iguana fights are always a good time. We can’t wait for Saturday.” – Tim Morin, active player and club president

Worcester Rugby
“This weekend’s doubleheader between us and Boston RFC is both an anticipated rivalry matchup, as well as a celebration of two clubs experiencing pivotal moments in their respective histories.  We’ve squared off with Boston about a dozen times over the past few years, with each matchup starting as a hard-fought battle and ending with long-time friends catching up and enjoying each other’s company.

An exciting wrinkle has been added to our rivalry this fall – with our clubs experiencing healthy growth in membership, we’re both fortunate to have entered teams into the Division 4 competition, giving our clubs a chance to challenge our players in league competition and continue developing regional athletes into top-quality rugby players.

We’re grateful to NERFU for organizing our schedules in a way that allows our full club membership to share a day with Boston RFC, and we can’t wait for Saturday!” -Nick Ducey, active player and club president 

Free Jacks on Tour

Catch the players, staff and the MLR Championship Shields at our upcoming Community Events where we will be engaging with local rugby clubs and delivering clinics for all ages!

• Sep 28th in Seacoast New Hampshire (Community Clinic) – SEE HERE
• October 4th and 5th in Portland ME (Community Celebration Weekend) – SEE HERE
• October 17 – 19th in Burlington VT (Community Celebration Weekend) – SEE HERE 

Thank you for being part of the Free Jacks family and supporting rugby across New England. Together with NERFU, we look forward to celebrating more stories from our incredible community each week.

Rugby players are tough, but those fighting blood cancer are on another level.

This Blood Cancer Awareness Month, the New England Free Jacks are calling on the entire rugby community to rise up and help fight against blood cancer. Through our partnership with Blood Cancer United, we’re launching the Unite to Fight campaign — a fundraising effort dedicated to supporting those battling blood cancers like leukemia and lymphoma.

It’s time to show the world that rugby players have more than just strength on the field; we have the heart to make a difference off it.

Join the Fight: Help Raise Funds for Blood Cancer Research

The Free Jacks community has always been about standing strong together, and now we need your help to support a cause that touches the lives of so many. Whether you’re a player, a fan, or part of one of New England’s many rugby clubs, we’re calling on YOU to help us raise funds for Blood Cancer United.

Here’s how you can get involved:

• Make a Donation: Every dollar counts in the fight. 

• Create a Fundraising Page: Team Captains, please be sure to create your team here: Boston | Light The Night | Leukemia & Lymphoma Society Click the Register Button!  Once you have completed this, please email Abbey Gill (abbey.gill@lls.org) or Matt Kennedy (matt.Kennedy@lls.org) confirming you have signed up for your team and they will link your team to the Free Jacks!

• Share Your Toughest Photos: We want to see rugby players in their most fierce moments. Share your photos on social media, showing your team’s warrior mentality, and call for donations to support those battling leukemia and other blood cancers. Tag us and use the hashtag #UniteToFight to help spread the word.

The Challenge: Which Team Will Rise Above?

There’s an added incentive to make your fundraising efforts count! The team that raises the most money will be awarded a bag full of Gilbert rugby balls to donate to the rugby club of their choice. 

Mark Your Calendar: October 16th at Boston Common

Our fundraising efforts will culminate on October 16th at Boston Common, where we’ll join thousands of supporters for the Light the Night walk. Together, we’ll light up the night to bring hope and awareness to the darkness of blood cancer.

Let’s Unite to Fight

The Unite to Fight campaign is all about rallying the rugby community to make a real impact. Whether you’re a veteran player or a passionate fan, your support is vital to the success of this campaign.

We can’t do it without you — let’s show that the Free Jacks family has what it takes to change lives, one fundraiser at a time. Together, we can unite to fight blood cancer — and we’ll do it with the same warrior spirit that defines us on the field.

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

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

The New England Free Jacks took on NOLA Gold on a sweltering Saturday in Metairie, LA and earned their 11th regular season victory of the year. With the 21-17 win, the two-time defending Major League Rugby (MLR) champions clinched the Eastern Conference’s top seed for the fourth consecutive season. 

As the top seed, all Eastern Conference playoff games will be held at Veterans Memorial Stadium in Quincy for as long as the Free Jacks remain alive.  New England opens up at home next Sunday at 1 p.m. against either the Miami Sharks or Old Glory DC.

MLR will host its title match in Rhode Island on June 25 and the Free Jacks can go back-to-back-to-back without getting on a flight.

“To be honest the plane trips take a toll on you. It is really nice to have an extra day without the travel. It is a competitive advantage in this competition,” said coach Ryan Martin.

NOLA Gold jumped off to a five point lead in the first five minutes with a Cooper Coats try, but the Free Jacks found their footing at 11 minutes when Oscar Lennon scored New England’s first try and conversion of the match, putting them in the lead 7-5. Brock Webster added a score in the 29th minute, increasing the lead to 14-5.

Coming back into the second half, Sam Caird scored his second try of the season at 44 minutes, raising the score up to 21-5. 

Despite being eliminated from playoff contention, NOLA Gold did not go out without a fight. At 62 minutes, Coats scored his second try of the match. With just three minutes left in the match Abe Turpen scored, making the match a one score game at 21-17. 

The Free Jacks closed out the critical win by forcing a turnover deep in NOLA territory in the final minute. With the kick to touch, the Free Jacks locked in another Eastern Conference regular season title.

“We can’t wait to be back to a home crowd, and use that support going forward,” said Webster who earned Player of the Match honors. 

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

If you’ve ever caught a New England Free Jacks home match, chances are you’ve heard the crowd erupt in a thunderous “HUZZAH!” after a try is scored. It’s loud, it’s proud, and it’s become part of what makes a Free Jacks game one of the most fun, electric atmospheres in New England sports.

But do you know where that chant came from? Meet Dave McVey—the man behind the “Huzzah.”

Since the Free Jacks launched in 2018, McVey has missed just one home game. He’s not just a fan. He’s family. He helped plant the roots of the Free Jacks’ game-day culture—something that’s now drawing thousands of new fans to Quincy every season.

“I’ve been a rugby guy for a long time,” said McVey. “But I knew not everyone in the crowd would be. I just wanted a way for people to focus and get excited when something big happened—like scoring a try.”

So, he made a sign. Just foam board, a Sharpie, and an idea. After every Free Jacks try, he’d hold it up and bellow: “HUZZAH!” And slowly but surely, the rest of the stadium started joining in. Now, the chant echoes across Veterans Memorial Stadium, and even followed the team to championship matches in Chicago and San Diego.

That beat-up old sign? It’s been taped, re-taped, and battle-tested in all kinds of New England weather. But to McVey, it’s more than a poster board, it’s a symbol of the culture this club has built.

“The idea that it might be retired and passed on to the team… that means a lot,” he said. “It’s a little piece of my contribution.”

And that’s what makes rugby (especially the Free Jacks) so special. This isn’t just a team. It’s a community. And traditions like “Huzzah” don’t come from marketing departments or halftime promos, they come from the people in the stands.

Today, there are multiple “Huzzah” signs around the stadium. More fans, more voices, and more kids shouting the chant with their families. Dave’s own daughters, Cora and Abby, have been doing it with him since the beginning. For the McVeys, it’s a family thing. And now, it’s become a stadium-wide celebration.

Off the field, McVey teaches social-emotional learning in Newton. On weekends, he still referees rugby matches after spending 15 years playing and coaching the game. But his heart is with the Free Jacks, and this year, the team returned the love.

Dave McVey and Family being Presented with Flight Vouchers from DELTA at the May 10th Free Jacks Festival

At the May 10th “Quincy Day” match, presented by Delta, the Free Jacks surprised Dave with a $500 Delta flight voucher to thank him for his loyalty and passion.

“I didn’t see it coming at all,” he said. “I was really grateful. Normally, I’d use that to fly to the championship, but this year, it’s in Providence!”

So what’s next? “Maybe I’ll save it for an away match next year,” McVey grinned. “Or a wedding in Vegas. Who knows?”

And while the future may hold new adventures for Dave, one chapter is about to close in unforgettable fashion. 

At the Free Jacks’ home playoff game on June 15, Dave McVey will officially present the original “Huzzah” sign to the team, retiring it as a legendary piece of Free Jacks history. 

Fans are encouraged to be there in person to witness the handoff and join in the sign’s final, thunderous “HUZZAH!” The sign will be framed and permanently displayed at the Free Jacks’ Training Facility, a lasting tribute to the passionate supporters who helped build this culture from the stands up.

“I’ve always been struck by how humble and approachable everyone in the club is—players, coaches, office staff, all of them,” he said. “It really is something special.”

Free Jacks aren’t just winning on the scoreboard. They’re building something lasting, a culture where anyone, rugby diehard or total newcomer, can belong.

Looking to be part of that culture? There’s no better place to start than at a match. Catch the Free Jacks at home on Sunday, June 15 at and don’t forget to practice your loudest “HUZZAH!”

A Special Thank You to Delta
The Free Jacks would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Delta Air Lines, a proud partner that continues to go above and beyond to support our growing community. With Delta’s help, we’re able to celebrate and connect with the fans who bring our matches to life. A special shoutout to Candice, General Manager of New England Sales, and Lorenzo, Sales Account Executive, for their incredible support and dedication. Partnerships like this are what make the Free Jacks family stronger every season.

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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

This past weekend, during halftime of the Free Jacks’ electric match against the Houston SaberCats, the crowd witnessed a moment that will forever be etched in the history of Major League Rugby. For the first time ever, an All Abilities rugby match took center stage — and with it, the Free Jacks proudly became the first MLR team to launch and feature an All Abilities team: Introducing the All Jacks.

Breaking Barriers: A First for Major League Rugby

Inclusivity has long been a pillar of rugby culture, but on Saturday, the Free Jacks raised the bar. The debut of the All Jacks marked a watershed moment—not just for the team, but for the entire league. While the scoreboard during the SaberCats clash kept fans on their feet, it was the halftime All Jacks match that truly stole the show.

This match wasn’t just an exhibition. It was a celebration of belonging. It was a testament to the idea that rugby is for everyone.

The All Jacks program is the result of a powerful partnership between the Free Jacks and the Boys & Girls Club of Dorchester, where weekly All Abilities rugby sessions have fostered connection, confidence, and community. These sessions welcome inclusion athletes of all abilities, giving them a space to discover the joy and values of rugby—teamwork, respect, discipline, and fun.

As Thomas Grant, Director of Community and Academy, put it:

“The partnership with the Boys and Girls Club of Dorchester has been magic. We are so proud to bring the game of rugby to their inclusion athletes and spread the joys of this wonderful game.  The All Jacks showcase that the game of rugby is always accessible to everyone .”

A Standing Ovation from the Free Jacks Faithful

When the All Jacks took the field at halftime, they were met with thunderous cheers from the packed stands at Veterans Memorial Stadium. Proud families, passionate fans, and first-time rugby watchers alike rose to celebrate every try, every pass, every step forward. The support was as inspiring as the athletes themselves.

With this milestone achieved, the Free Jacks will continue to build on the success of the All Abilities program. The commitment to inclusive rugby will deepen, expand, and—most importantly—continue to bring the sport to new faces across the region.

To learn more about the All Jacks and the partnership with the Boys & Girls Club of Dorchester, visit:

• All Abilities Rugby Program Recap

• Partnership Announcement

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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