The New England Maritime & Advanced Manufacturing Workforce Experience

In collaboration with industry and workforce partners supporting the maritime and advanced manufacturing sectors

FOUNDING PARTNER

A hands-on experience bringing together employers, educators, and students to explore career opportunities across the submarine industrial base and advanced manufacturing ecosystem. Participating companies will engage directly with vocational students, emerging technical talent, workforce trainees, and veterans pursuing careers in maritime and advanced manufacturing industries

Ideal for suppliers supporting the submarine industrial base, advanced manufacturing, robotics, engineering, and skilled trades industries.

Sponsorship Levels

Run of Show 

7:30-9:30 am

Exhibitor Load in and set up
Innovation Activation Village opens for all exhibitors
Vendor check in at Box Office-distribution of event credentials

9:30-10:00 am

Quick logistics meeting to review workshop schedule
Safety & stadium map/protocols
Expectations for exhibitors

10:00-10:45 am

Student arrival and registration (mobile ticket scanned at check-in)
Distribution of welcome materials
Light networking
Activation Village soft opening

11:00-11:20 am

Opening welcome
Free Jacks leadership welome
Keynote: Buildsubmarines.com

11:20-12:00 pm

Industry Leadership Panel (MIB/BlueForge to weigh in on panel participants)

12:00-1:30 pm

Innovation Activation Village Open (stadium field)

Will feature hands-on demonstrations and interactive exhibits on the field
Attendees can learn about career pathways, speak with employers, and visit training program booths

*Concessions will be open with food and beverage available for purchase

1:30-2:00 pm

Workshop Session 1 (located in the Delta Lantern Suite)

2:00-2:30 pm

Innovation Activation Village/Networking Break
Attendees from workshops return to the exhibit village on the field

2:30-3:00 pm

Workshop Session 2 (Located in the Delta Lantern Suite)

3:00-3:45 pm

Final Activation Village Engagement
Last opportunity to visit exhibitors, network, and engage with sponsors

3:45-4:00 pm

Closing Remarks
Thank partners and sponsors

4:00-5:00 pm

Exhibitor Breakdown

About the New England Free Jacks

The New England Free Jacks are Greater Boston’s professional rugby team competing in Major League Rugby (MLR), the premier North American professional rugby competition, and are the three-time defending MLR Champions. Representing the six New England states on and off the field, the Free Jacks deliver unforgettable matchday experiences at their home in Quincy, MA, while producing dynamic digital content that connects with fans across the region. Built on the values of community, hard work, and free-spirited competition, the Free Jacks believe life is better together, on and off the pitch. For more information, visit www.FreeJacks.com.

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

Catch the Free Jacks vs. California Legion on April 4 at 7PM ET with your local fan chapter at an official pub partner

About the New England Free Jacks

The New England Free Jacks are Greater Boston’s professional rugby team competing in Major League Rugby (MLR), the premier North American professional rugby competition, and are the three-time defending MLR Champions. Representing the six New England states on and off the field, the Free Jacks deliver unforgettable matchday experiences at their home in Quincy, MA, while producing dynamic digital content that connects with fans across the region. Built on the values of community, hard work, and free-spirited competition, the Free Jacks believe life is better together, on and off the pitch. For more information, visit www.FreeJacks.com.

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

Quincy, MA – The New England Free Jacks announced Todd Thornley as the club’s new General Manager, continuing the organization’s momentum following three consecutive Major League Rugby championships. Thornley succeeds Thomas “TK” Kindley as the club enters its next phase of growth on and off the pitch.

Thornley brings extensive experience in high-performance rugby to his role as General Manager of the New England Free Jacks. Originally from New Zealand, Thornley has spent over a decade working across collegiate, professional, and national team rugby in the United States.

He previously served as Head Coach at Central Washington University which last year alone had 3 of the top 5 MLR draft picks and held coaching roles with UCLA Bruins Men’s Rugby, while also working in Major League Rugby as an Assistant Coach with California Legion. At the national level, Thornley has been involved in player development with USA Rugby, serving as Head Coach of the U19 and U23 programs and as an assistant with the U20 national team.

Thornley holds undergraduate and master’s degrees in Exercise Science and is passionate about developing talent and strengthening player pathways in American rugby. He is the father of two children, Rori (5) and Reagan (3), who live in Washington State, and enjoys spending time with friends and family when away from rugby.

“Firstly, congratulations to a great colleague and good friend TK on his next chapter, his impact on this place speaks for itself. This is a club with great people, strong ambition, and a real connection to its supporters from the ownership level all the way down. I’m looking forward to connecting with the entire community, supporting the players and staff, and helping the New England Free Jacks continue to grow and compete at the highest level”. 

“I leave with a lot of confidence that Todd is stepping into this special and critical role at the Free Jacks” said departing GM, Tom Kindley. 

“Todd is a reflective, caring and driven person and practitioner who has amassed amazing experience across the collegiate, pathway and professional landscapes in the United States across a variety of roles. We are super aligned, and I am excited to support him in the transition, to drive the club forward, while staying true to who we are.”

About the New England Free Jacks

The New England Free Jacks are Greater Boston’s professional rugby team competing in Major League Rugby (MLR), the premier North American professional rugby competition, and are the three-time defending MLR Champions. Representing the six New England states on and off the field, the Free Jacks deliver unforgettable matchday experiences at their home in Quincy, MA, while producing dynamic digital content that connects with fans across the region. Built on the values of community, hard work, and free-spirited competition, the Free Jacks believe life is better together, on and off the pitch. For more information, visit www.FreeJacks.com.

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

THREE-TIME DEFENDING MAJOR LEAGUE RUGBY CHAMPION NEW ENGLAND FREE JACKS CELEBRATE GENERAL MANAGER  THOMAS “TK” KINDLEY AS HE DEPARTS FOR THE SUPER RUGBY PACIFIC HURRICANES

Quincy, MA – In just six seasons of play of Major League Rugby (MLR), the highest level of American rugby, Thomas “TK” Kindley built the New England Free Jacks into a rugby powerhouse. With their 28-22 defeat of the Houston SaberCats in the 2025 MLR title game, the Free Jacks completed an unprecedented back-to-back-back title run that included wins against the Seattle Seawolves (2024) and San Diego Legion (2023).

During TK’s tenure as a performance and business trainee (2020), performance manager (2021), performance director (2022), and general manager (2023 – 2026) the Free Jacks have amassed a 68 win, 26 loss record over 94 games. Over the past four seasons (2022 – 2025), the Free Jacks have made four consecutive appearances in the Eastern Conference finals to go along with the three straight MLR title game appearances. Since taking ownership of the team in 2021, the team has enjoyed a remarkable win percentage of 75% – 67 wins of 89 games. 

In addition to the titles, Beaudein Waaka (2022), Jayson Potroz (2023), Wayne van der Bank (2024) and Paula Balekana (2025) were named player of the year; Wian Conradie (2023) forward of the year; Reece MacDonald (2024) back of the year; and Ben LeSage (2024) S. Marcus Calloway Community Impact Award winner during his tenure. Kindley also saw coaches Scott Mathie (2022 & 2024) and Ryan Marin (2025) win three of the last four coach of the year awards.

“TK has been a standout General Manager in MLR. The teams under his leadership reached historic and unmatched levels of on-field achievement,” said Alex Magleby, co-Founder of the New England Free Jacks and now co-President of Major League Rugby. “More importantly, he truly embodies the core values of being humble, working hard, and to have a fun in the process. Under his caring watch countless players have achieved domestic and international success across several amazing coaches that he recruited. We will miss TK in MLR but wish him incredible success as he returns home to New Zealand and joins Super Rugby.” 

About the New England Free Jacks

The New England Free Jacks are Greater Boston’s professional rugby team competing in Major League Rugby (MLR), the premier North American professional rugby competition, and are the three-time defending MLR Champions. Representing the six New England states on and off the field, the Free Jacks deliver unforgettable matchday experiences at their home in Quincy, MA, while producing dynamic digital content that connects with fans across the region. Built on the values of community, hard work, and free-spirited competition, the Free Jacks believe life is better together, on and off the pitch. For more information, visit www.FreeJacks.com.

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

QUINCY, MA — The New England Free Jacks are thrilled to announce the lineup of festival themes for the 2026 season; a series of electrifying matchday experiences that will bring even more excitement, community spirit, and unforgettable moments to Veteran’s Memorial Stadium. 

With an action-packed slate of seven home dates, the Free Jacks are turning gameday into a full-fledged celebration for fans of all ages. Mark your calendars — here’s what’s in store:

🍀 March 14 — St Paddy’s Day Kickoff Festival

St. Patrick’s Day Festival at Fort Quincy ☘️

Kick off the season with our biggest celebration of the spring. Join us for a full-scale St. Patrick’s Day Festival packed with rugby, live music, and a Stout Festival to launch the season in proper style.

Start the day with a 6 Nations Watch Party, then dive into a full afternoon of festival programming across Fort Quincy, from interactive fan activations and partner experiences throughout the grounds. The day builds toward a Free Jacks Open Practice, your first opportunity to see the squad back on the pitch in 2026 and get a glimpse of what’s ahead this season.

Guinness on tap, live music from the Mud Ducks and wall-to-wall fun from start to finish. Plus, exclusive merchandise offerings only sold at Fort Quincy. The season starts here.

❄️ March 28 — Woodgy’s Winter Wonderland Pre-Season Match

1. Atlantic Privateers
   Frosty air, flying tackles, and a little preseason magic. We welcome New England spring in true Free Jacks fashion with Woodgy’s Winter Wonderland.

Bundle up for a preseason clash against the Atlantic Privateers, and get the day started with a curtain-raiser between the Greyhounds and the Ancient Mariners. Warm up with a whiskey tasting experience and enjoy live music from the Mass Ave Band. 

Layer up, rally your group, and join us as we set the tone for the 2026 season at Woodgy’s Winter Wonderland.

🏙️ April 11 — Title Town Block Party

1. Old Glory DC
   The return of the Champs!

Title Town Block Party marks the official 2026 regular season opener and a can’t-miss Banner Night celebration honoring your returning champions. Join us as we raise the banner, celebrate last season’s triumph, and kick off the title defense in front of the Free Jacks faithful.

With live music from Country Wild Heart Band, a tasting experience featuring award-winning brews, fan activations, and an electric stadium atmosphere, this block party will embody everything that makes New England Title Town. The stakes are high as Old Glory DC comes to town, and the champs are ready to defend the crown.

🌎 April 26 — International Festival

1. Anthem Rugby
   Rugby is a global game, and we’re bringing the world to New England. The International Festival, presented by Delta, honors the diverse cultures that make up the heart of our sport and connects our community to the global spirit of the game.

Fans can enjoy tunes by Dominos FX Band, international cuisine, and themed gameday activations throughout the stadium. The featured Tasting Experience will showcase international brews from around the world, giving supporters the chance to sip and sample flavors inspired by rugby nations near and far.

It all sets the stage for a spirited clash with Anthem Rugby in a celebration that spans continents.

🎖️ May 3 — Salute to Service Military Festival & the Coffee Cup

1. Seattle Seawolves
   A tribute to courage and community. This special day honors the armed forces with military appreciation festivities and patriotic recognition throughout the stadium. The Coffee Cup rivalry returns as Seattle comes to town — one of the league’s fiercest cross-country matchups steeped in pride and tradition.

With the Coffee Cup on the line, the Free Jacks will defend the trophy at home, bringing added intensity to an already electric atmosphere. Expect signature brews from veteran-owned breweries, live sounds by the Group Chat Band, and a heavyweight clash worthy of the rivalry.

🚀 May 9 — Free Jacks in Space

1. California Legion
   Prepare for lift-off! Free Jacks in Space brings an out-of-this-world themed experience to the pitch. Fans can expect a high-energy celebration of innovation and science, where curiosity meets competition and big ideas take center stage.

From interactive activations to immersive, space-inspired fan experiences, the day captures the spirit of exploration that drives both rugby and discovery. The Tasting Experience will showcase innovative brews and boundary-pushing flavors, while acclaimed blues legend James Montgomery adds a special live performance that elevates the energy across the stadium. Expect a matchday that feels larger than life, on and off the field.

🏝️ June 7 — On Island Time

1. Chicago Hounds
   Close out the home slate island style. On Island Time is all about laid-back vibes, sunshine energy, and a full day of rugby and entertainment.

The matchday will feature a special halftime All-Jacks Exhibition Match, highlighting the Free Jacks’ commitment to creating access and expanding the game for athletes of all abilities through our partnership with the Boys & Girls Club. It’s a powerful celebration of inclusion and the belief that rugby is for everyone.

Fans can also enjoy the Summer Sips Tasting Experience, highlighting refreshing seasonal pours and island-inspired flavors perfect for early summer. When the Chicago Hounds come to town, expect beach energy in the stands and high-intensity rugby on the pitch for the ultimate summer kick-off. 

With each game carrying its own unique festival atmosphere, the 2026 Free Jacks season promises unforgettable experiences for everyone. Whether you’re a die-hard rugby fan, a family looking for a fun day out, or simply ready to join the party, there’s something for you at every match.

Tickets are on sale now — come be part of the fun!

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

Quincy, MA — February 20 — The New England Free Jacks, three-time defending Major League Rugby (MLR) Champions, have officially unveiled their full 2026 roster as they set their sights on an unprecedented fourth consecutive title.

The seventh season of Free Jacks rugby kicks off this spring, beginning with an Open House Fan Celebration at Fort Quincy—Veterans Memorial Stadium on St. Patrick’s Day Weekend, March 14. Supporters are invited to meet the squad, celebrate the new campaign, and launch what promises to be another thrilling year in Quincy.

“The 2026 campaign presents a unique challenge for the Free Jacks as we embark on our seventh season of Major League Rugby,” said General Manager Thomas “TK” Kindley. “We’ve worked relentlessly to assemble the strongest, most balanced squad possible within the league’s new model, while staying true to our blue-collar, team-and-community first DNA. Our first priority will be welcoming our 2026 Free Jacks with real care and intent, building genuine connection, and then setting out together on another special journey.”

The Free Jacks will compete in a 10-match home-and-away regular season schedule, facing each opponent twice under MLR’s revised competition structure. All home matches will be played at Veterans Memorial Stadium in Quincy, with local broadcasts on NBC Sports Boston, streaming on The Rugby Network, and radio coverage on WMEX Boston (1510 AM / 101.1 FM).

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

Quincy, MA — February 12, 2026 — The New England Free Jacks are excited to announce that WMEX Boston (1510 AM / 101.1 FM) will serve as the official radio broadcast partner for the team’s upcoming season. This landmark partnership will bring Free Jacks rugby coverage, team updates, and exclusive content to listeners across the Greater Boston area and beyond via WMEX’s broadcast and digital platforms.

As the official radio voice of the Free Jacks, WMEX will deliver live game commentary, pre-game insights, player interviews, and fan-centric programming throughout the season, enhancing the experience for rugby supporters throughout New England.

Listeners can tune into WMEX on 1510 AM and 101.1 FM, as well as stream online through the WMEX mobile app and website, to stay dialed in to all things Free Jacks throughout the season.

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 are excited to announce a historic trans-border pre-season clash with the Atlantic Privateers, a select side representing the four Canadian Atlantic provinces, on Saturday, March 28, 2026.

A later Major League Rugby start date provides a unique opportunity to host this showcase fixture against one of Canadian Rugby’s top representative sides, delivering another signature game-day festival at Veterans Memorial Stadium. As a curtain-raiser, Canadian old-boys side the Nova Scotia Ancient Mariners will face Massachusetts’ own Boston Irish Greyhounds.

This event reflects the shared innovation, camaraderie, and continued commitment to rugby on both sides of the border, and offers Free Jacks fans a chance to dress up, celebrate and pay homage to our friends to the north.

ATLANTIC PRIVATEERS: A BRIEF HISTORY

Founded in 2021 by Dr. John Gillis, former Rugby Canada and Toronto Arrows Chief Medical Officer, the Atlantic Privateers were created to provide top players from Newfoundland & Labrador, Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia with a high-performance platform for training, competition, and national/professional pathway visibility.

Since their inaugural match against the Toronto Arrows, the Privateers have built a reputation for strong on-field performances and an engaging, community-driven culture off it.

They host the annual Coast to Coast Cup in Halifax each June, finishing as finalists in 2023 and champions in both 2024 and 2025. Additional notable victories include wins over the Royal Navy (UK), Québec, British Columbia, Ontario, and the Free Jacks Academy.

Prominent players to don Privateers colors include Free Jacks favorites Kyle Baillie, Cole Keith, and Conor Keys, as well as former NOLA Gold standouts Cooper Coats and Tyler Matchem.

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

As New England prepares for another season at Fort Quincy, the 2026 roster continues to take shape with a wave of impactful new signings across the forwards and backs. This group blends international pedigree, American pathway standouts, crossover athletes, and rising prospects from top development systems in New Zealand, Australia, and Europe.

What ties them together? Versatility, hunger, physicality—and a shared belief in the Free Jacks’ identity-driven culture. Below is the next chapter of the club’s 2026 roster announcements, highlighting the newest additions set to make their mark in Quincy.

Jerad “Line” Latu — Versatile Back Brings Power and Experience

The Free Jacks are thrilled to welcome Jerad “Line” Latu for the 2026 MLR season. The 28-year-old San Mateo native arrives from Anthem Rugby Carolina, reuniting with former teammate Mitch Wilson and bringing valuable continuity to New England’s backline.

“I am extremely excited to join such a storied franchise for the 2026 season. I’m looking forward to getting to work and putting my best foot forward for the organization.”

Originally a college football wide receiver at the College of San Mateo and Eastern Michigan University, Latu transitioned to rugby in 2022 with the American Raptors. That same year, he represented the USA Falcons and earned attention across the Americas. In 2023 he broke out, earning Super Rugby Americas First Team honors at fullback and selection to the USA Eagles greater squad.

He later featured for Houston in 2023 before delivering strong 2024 and 2025 seasons, highlighted by 53 carries for 477 meters, 6 line breaks, 25 tackle breaks, plus 73 passes and 25 kicks for 710 meters. Comfortable at fullback, wing, or flyhalf, Latu brings explosiveness and all-round versatility.

Maliu Niuafe — A Rising USA Prop with International Experience

The Free Jacks are excited to welcome Maliu Niuafe, one of the fastest-rising tighthead props in American rugby. At just 22, Niuafe made his USA Eagles test debut during the 2025 Pacific Nations Cup, helped secure qualification for RWC 2027, and earned three Autumn Test caps.

“I believe signing with the Free Jacks will help me further develop my knowledge and skills as a young tighthead prop. I’m willing to give it my all.”

Born in California and raised in Auckland, he was previously in consideration for the New Zealand U20s and spent time as a development player with Auckland in the NPC. In 2025 with RFC Los Angeles, he appeared in 15 matches (12 starts), carrying 73 times for 402 meters, breaking 9 tackles, and making 75 tackles.

A powerful scrummager with high work rate, Niuafe is a long-term building block for both the Free Jacks and USA Rugby.

Braemar Murray — Young Lock with European Pedigree

Twenty-one-year-old English–American lock Braemar Murray joins New England after stints with Anthem Rugby Carolina and the Miami Sharks. At 6’5” and 240 lbs, Murray enters his third MLR season with maturity beyond his years.

“It’s a massive opportunity to be part of such a successful club with a strong identity and culture.”

Born in England to an American mother, Murray developed through elite academies including Newcastle Falcons and Stade Toulousain, and represented the USA U18s and U20s before debuting in MLR in 2024. He has made 15 MLR appearances and recently impressed for Old Blue in the American Rugby Premiership, emerging as one of the league’s standout performers.

Murray adds mobility, length, and upside to the Free Jacks’ lock stocks.

Jacob Norris — Māori All Black and Super Rugby Veteran Joins the Pack

The Free Jacks are thrilled to announce the signing of Jacob Norris, a seasoned loose forward with experience across Super Rugby, the NPC, and the Māori All Blacks.

“It’s a massive honour and privilege to be part of such a great organisation with a proud history of success.”

At 6’3” and 220 lbs, Norris brings eight seasons of NPC experience, stints with the Crusaders, Western Force, Chiefs wider squad, and a standout 2024 campaign with Moana Pasifika. He debuted for the Māori All Blacks in 2021 alongside his brother Ollie.

Originally from Tauranga, Norris came through Waikato and Chiefs pathways before winning back-to-back NPC titles with Tasman. He later returned home to Bay of Plenty, playing under incoming Free Jacks forwards coach Pingi Tala’apitaga and alongside captain Joe Johnston.

Norris provides leadership, toughness, and aerial quality—an instant impact signing.

Sione Tupou — A Dynamic New Zealand Hooker on the Rise

Up-and-coming New Zealand hooker Sione Tupou joins the Free Jacks ahead of the 2026 season. Standing 5’10” and 108 kg, the 21-year-old is known for his powerful carrying, aggressive contact, and explosive athleticism.

“I’m super excited to be a part of this team and can’t wait to get stuck in!”

Raised in South Auckland and developed through De La Salle College, Tupou advanced into the Bay of Plenty academy and earned selection to the Chiefs U20 squad in 2024. He has also competed with the Chiefs development team and spent the past two NPC seasons under Pingi Tala’apitaga.

Viewed as one of New Zealand’s most promising young front-rowers, Tupou brings big upside to the Free Jacks pack.

Filipe Vakasiuola — A Powerful Tongan/Kiwi Tighthead with NPC Credentials

The Free Jacks are excited to welcome Filipe Vakasiuola, a 23-year-old Tongan/New Zealand tighthead prop with rare size and athleticism. Standing 6’3” and 295 lbs, he is poised to make a significant impact in MLR.

“I am ultra stoked to play for this championship franchise! In a place where legends like Bobby Orr, Tom Brady, and Joe Johnston have left their mark, you know you’re in the right place!”

A Katikati native and member of Tauranga Sports—the same club once led by Mike Rogers—Vakasiuola has quickly risen through Bay of Plenty’s NPC ranks, featuring in 18 matches over two seasons. He earned Steamers Rookie of the Year honors in 2024 and is known for his power, mobility, and game intelligence.

Maintaining continuity with Bay of Plenty coach Tala’apitaga, Vakasiuola enters New England with momentum and pedigree.

Alex Mackenzie — US/Japan-Qualified Back Row Returns Stateside

The Free Jacks are excited to welcome Alex Mackenzie, an American- and Japanese-qualified back rower joining New England after five successful seasons in Japan’s Top League.

“It’s evident that the Free Jacks have a strong rugby culture and environment. I’ll embrace and embody it to the best of my ability to give back to the team.”

Born in Japan and raised in Seattle, Mackenzie starred at Central Washington University, earning Collegiate All-American honors in both 15s and 7s and becoming a Rudy Scholz Award finalist. He turned professional in 2021, competing for the Shining Arcs and later the D-Rocks, sharpening his ball-carrying and defensive presence against top international talent.

At 6’1” and 240 lbs, Mackenzie brings athleticism, leadership, and high-level experience to the New England back row.

Ollie Aylmer — U.S.-Born Australian U20 Lock with Big Upside

The Free Jacks are excited to welcome Ollie Aylmer, a New York–born 20-year-old lock who has risen rapidly through the Brumbies development pathway. Standing 6’5” and 247 lbs, Aylmer enters New England as one of the most promising young locks in the global U20 landscape.

“I am very grateful for this opportunity with the Free Jacks and excited to get going in March!”

Aylmer developed in Sydney through St Pius X College, Roseville Juniors, and Gordon Rugby before helping the Brumbies U19s win the Australian Super Rugby development championship. After earning selection to the Australia U20 squad, he earned six caps between the U20 Rugby Championship and World Rugby U20 Championship.

Recently part of the Brumbies’ 2025 Super Rugby squad training block, Aylmer arrives in Boston with size, mobility, and enormous growth potential.

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