The New England Free Jacks have confirmed that star flyhalf Jayson Potroz sustained a season-ending knee injury during last weekend’s match against the Seattle Seawolves.

“We are incredibly grateful for everything Jayson has given to this team over the past three seasons,” the team said in a statement. “We’re heartbroken for him, his partner Nicola, and their daughter Mila—especially after witnessing the hard work and determination he showed coming back from a serious hamstring injury earlier this year.

“Jayson is deeply loved by this team and our entire community. We encourage fans to show their appreciation and support when they see him at the playoffs.”

Potroz is scheduled to undergo surgery in the near future. His recovery timeline and next steps remain uncertain at this time. Potroz will move into a supporting role helping the team prepare for the upcoming playoffs.

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

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

The Free Jacks are thrilled to announce that Cameron (Cam) Davidowicz, the beloved Haverhill, MA native, is returning to the New England Free Jacks ahead of the regular season’s final stretch and the playoff push. The return of this hometown hero will surely be a lift to the team and a cause for celebration among Free Jacks fans who have followed Cam’s journey from his early days with the Free Jacks Academy, to his impactful role in the Major League Rugby squad.

A Hometown Hero Ready to Ride

Cam, who has been playing with Mystic River this spring, enters the fold ready to make an immediate impact in the back row. 

“The Davidowicz family are synonymous with the Free Jacks, and it will give us a huge lift to have Cam back in our team environment. Cam is the ultimate New England competitor; he brings a physical and mental edge that will challenge us to be better at the most important time of the season.” said Tom Kindley, General Manager

Cam’s return comes just before the trade and signing deadline, positioning him to contribute during the final regular-season games and into the playoffs. His familiarity with the Free Jacks’ culture, combined with his hardy style of play, will strengthen an already formidable back row as the team gears up for the crucial end-of-season games.

Cam’s Journey with the Free Jacks

A product of the Free Jacks Academy pathway, Cam has always been deeply connected to the New England rugby community. His rugby journey began in high school with the Essex County Bulldogs and continued at Plymouth State University, where he earned two NSCRO All-American honors. Cam’s standout performances for Mystic River, particularly in the Premier Summer 7s and Division One 15s competitions, set the stage for his rise to the Free Jacks.

After impressing in the 2020 season with the New England Independents development program; Cam earned a spot as a training squad player with the Free Jacks. His hard work and determination paid off, and he was contracted for the 2022 season. His impressive contributions to the team earned him a two-year contract, and since then, he has been a vital part of the New England back row.

Earlier this season, Cam made the difficult decision to step away from rugby to dedicate himself to his family farm. However, his love for the game and his commitment to his hometown team have brought him back at just the right time.

A Welcome Addition

At 29 years old, Cam’s tenacity and drive make him a perfect fit for the Free Jacks as they look to make a deep playoff run. With his return, the team gains not just a skilled back row player but a true local hero who embodies the spirit of New England rugby.

Cam’s return will undoubtedly fire up the team and the fans, and we look forward to seeing him back in action for the Free Jacks as we make our push for the postseason.

Welcome back, Cam!

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 share that current head coach, Ryan Martin, will serve as head coach of the Northland Taniwha during the Free Jacks off-season, having recently been promoted from Northland’s assistant to head coach for the 2025 New Zealand Bunnings Warehouse National Provincial Championship (NPC) season. 

The NPC which runs from late July to October, is a competition that is familiar to Free Jacks fans, with multiple current and former Free Jacks players competing in it during the MLR off-season. Current Free Jack Sam Caird currently plays for the Northland Taniwha, as does former Free Jack Terrell Peita, while other current Free Jacks such as Joe Johnston (Bay of Plenty), Jed Melvin (North Harbour), Simon-Peter Toleafoa (Counties Manukau), Faletoi Peni and Dan Hollinshead (Southland), compete for other NPC teams. 

 Martin will hold the role concurrently, alongside being head coach for the New England Free Jacks. With no competition overlap, Martin will be able to conduct both roles simultaneously.

“We are proud of Ryan earning what is a very prestigious role,” commented General Manager, Tom Kindley. 

“There are so many benefits to Marto taking this opportunity–including the ability to continue to develop and hone his coaching craft in a short and high-pressure competition like the NPC. It is a competition which has proved to be a great recruitment pool and development resource for us. We are excited to strengthen the mutually beneficial relationship with Northland and capitalize on what is a unique and exciting opportunity.”

Martin will depart to New Zealand in July after the 2025 season, whilst continuing his Free Jacks duties including navigating the 2025 MLR draft, providing coach development, recruitment and preparation for the 2026 MLR season. 

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

The Free Jacks announce the signings of two familiar faces to Major League Rugby (MLR). Flyhalf, Dan Hollinshead most recently played for RFC Los Angeles (2024), while Stevens last featured in MLR in 2023 for the Chicago Hounds. 

After helping to seal the deal for the Free Jacks this past weekend, outside back Josiah Morra departed on an 8 week loan to Miami Sharks, an initiative designed to further his development through increased playing time. 

Lindsey Stevens (29) hails from Sydney, Australia, qualifying through for Canada and the USA through his parents. A capped Canadian international, Stevens has represented the Maple Leafs 4 times and will bring pre-existing chemistry with his Canadian teammates he will reconnect with at the Free Jacks. Having spent 5 seasons in MLR between 2018 and 2023, Stevens is no stranger to MLR and will strengthen the Free Jacks front row. 

Stevens: “I’m looking forward to playing with some old teammates again. Coming to a strong club like the Free Jacks I’m excited to get into the mix and see how the club has become so successful. “

New Zealand flyhalf Dan Hollinshead (29) will bring plenty of leadership and experience. Like Stevens, Hollinshead will rekindle old friendships, including a strong connection with Free Jacks captain Joe Johnston – the pair play for the same club team, Te Puke Sports in Bay of Plenty, New Zealand. 

Hollinshead has played 7 seasons off NPC since 2014 with Bay of Plenty Auckland and Southland, as well as a season of super rugby with the Highlanders in 2019. Over the course of his 11 year career, Hollinshead has also played abroad in France with Agen and Vannes, in Japan with the Coca-Cola Red Sparks, and USA (Major League Rugby) with New York (2021) and LA (2024). 

Hollinshead: “I’m really looking forward to joining a great organization. Meeting new people, making new friends, and working hard to add to the success of the Free Jacks.”

General Manager, Tom Kindley spoke on the signings: “We have been pleased with how as a group we have adapted to the challenge during the front end of the season, leaning on our entire squad across the 6 games. As a result of the challenge, we have laid a strong platform to excel from and we are a super connected group off the field. 

We are really looking forward to having Dan and Lindsey in our mix, they are both hugely experienced and will strengthen our group at a pivotal time in the season.”

Former Canadian Sevens flyer, Josiah Morra departs on loan for a period of 8 weeks to the Miami Sharks, a continuation of a trend that has seen Free Jacks players loaned for short stints to further their development. The Free Jacks outside back is expected to return ahead of Round 16 of the regular season. 

more articles | player announcements

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

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The New England Free Jacks are excited to announce the short-term signings of scrum-half Emanuel Lai and utility back Noah Bain. Both players are expected to feature against Miami this weekend. 

Noah Bain: Canadian International Experience

At 6’2” and 197 lbs, Noah Bain joins the Free Jacks with an impressive resume that includes international experience with Rugby Canada and an MLR stint with the Utah Warriors. The Abbotsford, BC, native has played abroad within New Zealand’s Taranaki club competition, and featured for Taranaki’s development sides. Bain’s versatility makes him a key addition to the roster, capable of contributing in multiple backline positions

IMAGE FEATURING: Noah Bain recieving the 2023 Phil Mack Indigenous Player of the Year award. 

Emanuel Lai: Hometown Talent with Big Potential

Emanuel Lai, a 2024 MLR Draft Pick (Round 3, Pick 36), hails from Old Greenwich, Connecticut. A crafty scrum-half standing at 5’8” and weighing 170 lbs, the Santa Clara University Alum has impressed during December camp and pre-season with an insatiable energy. A New England native, Lai is eager to make his mark on the professional stage.

The Free Jacks are thrilled to welcome Lai and Bain to the team, confident that both players will add value to the squad as they prepare for another exciting campaign.

Stay tuned for updates on the Free Jacks’ 2025 season!

more articles | player announcements

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

Please Note: This article is read using Ai software, the pronunciation of some names and places may not be accurate.

The New England Free Jacks are excited to present their 2025 Major League Rugby roster. Last season’s 2024 roster proved to be extremely successful, taking the team to back-to-back MLR championships, culminating in a hard earned victory over the Seattle Seawolves in San Diego on August 4th. High player retention underscores the Free Jacks 2025 squad – with the majority of last year’s roster returning for this year’s season, great news for Free Jacks fans.

RETURNING STANDOUTS FROM 2024

Returning players for the 2025 season includes ‘24 standouts: Malakai Hala-Ngatai, Andrew Quattrin, Kaleb Geiger, Conor Keys, Wian Conradie, Jed Melvin, Piers von Dadelszen, Oscar Lennon, Cam Nordli-Kelemeti, Jayson Potroz, Le Roux Malan, Wayne van der Bank, Ben Lesage, and Paula Balekana. 

The strong returning core of this team has proven its talent, excellence and winning pedigree. Free Jacks fans will find comfort in seeing the return of talent that brought home the silverware in ‘23 & ‘24. 

Among the returning cohort is Major League Rugby’s premier flyhalf, Jayson Potroz. Potroz returns after two amazing seasons with the Free Jacks, leading the team to back-to-back championships and earning the title of MVP during the 2023 season. A talismanic attacking threat, Potroz also captained the squad through the back-end of the 2024 season. 

2024 Major League Rugby MVP Wayne van der Bank returns for his fourth MLR season to join Potroz in the backline. Van der Bank enjoyed a record breaking season, leading the league in tackle breaks and defenders beaten, proving a nightmare for opposition defenses.

RETURNING TO NEW ENGLAND

The 2025 squad welcomes openside flanker Joe Johnston back from a year sabbatical. Johnston played for the Free Jacks for 3 seasons between 2021 and 2023 where his trademark work rate and discipline played a core role in the club’s success. The US qualified Johnston returns from a strong NPC campaign in New Zealand with Bay of Plenty. Joining Johnston in returning to the club are backs Jack Reeves and Harrison Boyle. Massachusetts-born flyhalf/fullback Harrison Boyle played for the Free Jacks between 2021 and 2022 before returning to New Zealand to complete his studies. Canadian qualified center/wing Jack Reeves was last with the Free Jacks in 2022 where he was on loan from Gloucester in the English Premiership. 

 FREE JACKS ORIGINALS

A core group of 4 players remain from the 2020 inaugural MLR season including fan favorite, Kyle Ciquera. The iconic loosehead enters his 7th season, which includes the 2019 Cara Cup. Ciquera is a New England native, which is evident in his playing style and has become a core part of the Free Jacks front row. Joining him in returning for season 6 are locks Josh Larsen (Free Jack #1) and Jackson Thiebes (Free Jack #5), as well as mercurial Irish halfback, John Poland (Free Jack #9). 

THE FREE JACK WAY

Andrew Quattrin and Ben Lesage have been excellent servants to their team and community since arriving ahead of the 2023 campaign. Leaders both on and off the field, Quattrin and Lesage have both been recipients of the S. Marcus Calloway Community Impact Award in 2022 and 2024 respectively.  Their tireless efforts in the community have been revolutionary and seen the creation of initiatives like ‘Operation Sock Drop,’ a Prison Book Program and food deliveries in collaboration with ‘Rose’s Bounty,’ a food pantry for local veterans. On-field, both played integral roles towards the 2024 championship, with Quattrin ranking highly among top carriers and tacklers in MLR. 

RETURNING TO PLAY

MLR Forward of the Year in 2023, Wian Conradie, is finishing up his rehabilitation from a knee injury sustained early last season and is set to hit the ground running in 2025 for his fourth season with the club. The Namibian international is hugely experienced, having played in 3 Rugby World Cups, and adds his trademark physicality to the Free Jacks back row. Conradie is joined by Poland, who suffered a chest injury early last season, and has returned to full-fitness. Poland played a core role in the Free Jacks 2023 championship in the 9 jersey. Kyle Ciquera suffered a season-ending knee injury towards the end of the last season, and is expected to return to play later this season. 

REINFORCEMENTS SHIP UP TO BOSTON

The Free Jacks have supplemented a strong returning contingent with significant new talent and experience ahead of the 2025 season. Joining the Free Jacks for the first time ahead of the 2025 season are Kyle Steeves, Jone Koroiduadua, Connal McInerney, Sam Caird, Jeronimo Gomez Vara, Faletoi Peni, Simon-Peter Toleafoa, Brock Webster, Josiah Morra, as well as draftees Kaipono Kayoshi, Matt Carrion, and Emanuel Lai in a development capacity. 

The Free Jacks have added size to the spine of the forward pack, including Fijian International prop Jone Koroiduadua. Koroiduadua previously played for the Flying Fijians, where he was selected to play in the 2023 Rugby World Cup. Hooker, Connal McInerney, enjoyed a 7-year career with the Brumbies, in which he helped clinch a Super Rugby AU title in 2020 and led the team to multiple playoffs. 6’ 7” lock Sam Caird enters the second row from Ryan Martin’s Northland in the NPC and also brings a wealth of experience across Super Rugby and the NPC where he has played for the Waratahs and Highlanders, as well as Kintetsu in Japan’s Top League.

The demise of the rapidly improving Dallas Jackals saw the addition of 2024 MLR Forward of the Year Jeronimo Gomez Vara. The abrasive Argentinian led Dallas well over the past two-seasons, leading them to the post-season for the first time in 2024.  A lineout leader, renowned for a never-say-die attitude, the former Argentina XV and U20 player is a great pick up. Canadian International tighthead prop Kyle Steeves joins Jeronimo in making the voyage from Texas.

Keep an eye out for New Zealand talents Simon-Peter Toleafoa and Faletoi Peni from Counties Manukau and Southland respectively. Both expressed game-breaking ability in this year’s NPC and have featured for Samoa development sides. 

Canadian Internationals Brock Webster and Josiah Morra are accomplished sevens players on the world stage, and will add energy and flair to the Free Jacks outside back stocks. 

Collegiate Draftees Kaipono Kayoshi (Saint Mary’s college of California), Matt Carrion (Life University) and development player Emanuel Lai (Santa Clara University) round out the current squad for 2025. They will add to a legacy of talented collegiate players in the Free Jacks which includes Central Washington who returns from loan with Anthem for the 2025 season. 

DEPARTING PLAYERS

The Free Jacks enter the 2025 season with a strong core of returning players, but they also bid farewell to several players pursuing new opportunities. John-Roy Jenkinson and Holden Yungert have decided to hang up their boots, with Yungert retiring as a USA Rugby legend after amassing over 75 MLR caps and playing a pivotal role in the Free Jacks’ back-to-back championship triumphs. The team also parts ways with four players who will don opposition jerseys in 2025: Mitch Wilson (Rugby Carolina), Reece McDonald (Rugby LA), Zach Bastres (Miami Sharks), and Gabe Casey (Utah Warriors). Additionally, Toby Fricker, who joined the Free Jacks late in the 2024 season, returns to the Premiership’s Bristol Bears. Mitch Jacobson and Cam Davidowicz are focusing on family at this time: Jacobson to cherish time with his growing family, and Davidowicz, a beloved New England native, to dedicate himself to his family farm for the time being. The Free Jacks thank all these players for their contributions and wish them the best in their next chapters.

COACHING EXCELLENCE

Returning for the 2025 season is former head coach Ryan Martin. This time around he will be accompanied by Dewald Senekal and Pom Simona as his assistant coaches. This new, balanced coaching staff is rich in rugby experience. 

Ryan Martin’s return to the Free Jacks has been highly anticipated, as he led the team in the 2021 MLR season. He is committed to continuing the great work by predecessor Scott Mathie and building a greater bond between the Free Jacks and the community. 

Dewald Senekal specializes in the arts of forward play and is also recognized as one of the world’s leading lineout and maul experts. Senekal was actually a professional cricketer until he was 23, but at 24, he took up rugby and quickly became successful, playing professionally in both South Africa and France. 

Pom Simona will be returning as assistant coach after joining the Free Jacks coaching staff in 2024. He contributed to the team’s 2024 MLR championship win and strong team chemistry both on and off the field. 

With the returning core players, new players, and experienced coaching staff, the 2025 season is set to be another remarkable one for the Free Jacks. The bond between the community and their team is stronger now more than ever before going into the season, and all key areas on the field have strong and experienced players who truly love the game and are ready to put in the work to make this season the best yet.

more articles | player announcements

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 proud to announce the signings of three young ambitious American players to their 2025 roster. 

2024 MLR Collegiate draft picks Kaipono Kayoshi of Saint Mary’s College of California, and Matt Carrion of Life University both impressed during the Free Jacks December camp, earning contracts and bolstering the Free Jacks back row stocks with youthful enthusiasm. 

2022 MLR draft pick and Prop Ivan Pula of Central Washington University returns from Anthem Rugby Carolina where he was on loan for the 2024 MLR season to continue to build on his development in the Free Jacks environment.

Kaipono Kayoshi

Selected in the first round of the 2025 MLR Collegiate Draft, Kaipono Kayoshi is a 6’1″, 225-pound back-row powerhouse from Saint Mary’s College of California. A former USA Rugby Under-23 select and a 2024 Division 1A National Champion, Kaipono is known for his work ethic, tactical awareness, and fearless playing style. As captain of Saint Mary’s in his final collegiate season, he led his team to an undefeated record. Beyond his on-field accomplishments, Kaipono’s charisma and leadership promise to energize his teammates and keep spirits high during the grind of the season.

“What excites me about joining the Free Jacks is the culture they’ve built. It’s all about being humble yet confident and making history,” said Kaipono. “I’m ready to push buttons, spark competition, and bring joy to training when things get tough.”

Matt Carrion

Joining Kaipono in fortifying the back row is Matt Carrion, a 6’0″, 223-pound standout from Life University. With a track record of consistent performance, Matt’s four-year starting role at Life University saw him win the American Rugby Premiership and represent USA Rugby at the junior national team level. Hailing from Carlisle, Pennsylvania, and holding a degree in Business Administration, Matt brings discipline, competitiveness, and versatility to both offensive and defensive setups. His relentless drive and commitment will elevate the intensity of the Free Jacks’ training sessions.

Ivan Pula

Rounding out the trio is Ivan Pula, a 6’1″, 270-pound tighthead prop from Yelm, Washington. Drafted by the Free Jacks in 2023, the young Prop has spent two years biding his time and learning across different environments. Contracted by the Free Jacks in the 2023 season, Ivan has featured for the Free Jacks’ independents and benefitted from loans to the USA rugby Hawks program in 2023 and Anthem Rugby Carolina in 2024. A former USA Selects representative in the 2021 Americas Pacific Challenge, Ivan has been recognized for his physical potential and humility. Multi-talented, Pula served as captain at Central Washington University while earning his JD in Law. 

A Proven Pathway to Success

The Free Jacks’ commitment to developing players is evident in their track record. Players such as Kyle Ciquera, Cameron Davidowicz, and Ethan Fryer, have transitioned to becoming significant contributors on the MLR stage, all players who have played meaningful roles in MLR Championships. By investing in up-and-coming players and associated pathway systems, the Free Jacks not only enhance their squad but also contribute to the growth of rugby in New England and across the United States.

Looking Ahead

With Kaipono Kayoshi, Matt Carrion, and Ivan Pula joining the ranks for 2025, the Free Jacks’ training environment gains fresh energy and competition. These three players embody the organization’s values of hard work, resilience, and ambition. As they prepare for the upcoming season, fans can look forward to witnessing their development and potential contributions to the team’s continued success.

Stay tuned for updates as these promising players take their next steps in the Free Jacks’ high-performance system!

more articles | player announcements

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 thrilled to announce the return of 5’ 11, 210lb midfield/outside back Jack Reeves for the 2025 season. A pivotal part of the squad during the 2022 campaign, Reeves is ready to reunite with the Free Jacks after a two-year hiatus and bring his talents back to Veterans Memorial Stadium.

Reeves made a strong impression during his initial stint with the Free Jacks in 2022, showcasing his powerful ball running and varied skillset. Since then, the team has secured back-to-back Major League Rugby championships, and Reeves is eager to contribute to the Free Jacks’ pursuit of a historic third title.

“I am excited to reunite with a good group of lads and try to win a championship which i just missed out on last time. I think I’ll bring some good experience from my time in the premiership as well as lots of energy to bring out the best in everyone”

IMAGE FEATURING: Jacks Reeves playing for the Free Jacks in 2022

A Proven Performer on the Global Stage

Reeves joined the Gloucester Rugby Academy in 2014 and has ascended through the ranks, earning 30 first-team appearances for the Premiership side. Internationally, Reeves represented England at the U18 and U20 levels, solidifying his reputation as one of England’s most promising young talents.

In addition to his rugby accomplishments, Reeves brings a unique athletic pedigree to the field. A former judoka, he holds four British Championship medals in judo. His father, Ross Reeves, further inspired Jack’s athletic career, having played Canadian football for the Winnipeg Blue Bombers and represented Canada in bobsleigh.

A Second Chapter in New England

Reeves’ first spell with the Free Jacks in 2022 was memorable for fans and teammates alike. His dynamic playstyle made him a standout addition to the backline. Now, with more experience under his belt from competing in England’s top tier, Reeves is poised to take his game to new heights.

General Manager Tom Kindley expressed his excitement about Reeves’ return: “We are really excited to see the growth Jack has made over a formative two-year period well spent at Gloucester. We are aiming to provide him a platform to enjoy his rugby, and express the best version of himself. Jack’s a great team man who will slot in seamlessly and push us to keep evolving.”

profile

NAME: Jack Reeves

POSITION:  Center

HEIGHT:  5’11”

WEIGHT:  209lbs

HOMETOWN:  Dursely, Gloucestershire, UK

CAREER TO DATE: 

• Gloucester Rugby 2022 – 2024

• Free Jacks 2022

• Gloucester Rugby 2018 – 2022

   

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS

• England U18
• England U20
• 30 caps for Gloucester Rugby  

Tell us something about yourself:

I like to Socialise with friends, movie connoisseur, family is very important to me. I Love pretty much all sports!

Give us a Fun Fact!

I have 4 British championship medals

Off the Field

Beyond the rugby pitch, Reeves values time with family and friends and is an avid movie enthusiast. When he’s not dissecting defenses, he’s likely cheering on his favorite teams in other sports or indulging his love for cinema. His grounded personality and drive to excel make him a perfect fit for the Free Jacks’ culture.

Looking Ahead

As the Free Jacks gear up for the 2025 season, Reeves’ return adds yet another layer of depth to an already formidable squad. With his blend of experience, energy, and skill, Jack Reeves is ready to make an impact and help the Free Jacks extend their reign as champions.

Welcome back to New England, Jack! Free Jacks Fans are eager to see you back in action.

more articles | player announcements

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 thrilled to announce the signing of two dynamic New Zealand based playmakers: Faletoi Peni and Simon-Peter Toleafoa. Both athletes have enjoyed breakout NPC campaigns and bring a lot of cohesion having played together with the championship winning Manukau Rovers. Both players have represented Samoa Under 20’s further strengthening the Free Jacks’ 2025 roster.

Faletoi Peni: A Proven Champion

Faletoi Peni arrives in New England with an extraordinary resume that underscores his winning mentality and skillset. Standing at 5’8″ and weighing 235 lbs, Peni has established himself as an emerging talent at flyhalf and inside center. Hailing from Māngere, Auckland, New Zealand, his journey to professional rugby has been an inspiring one from the grassroots level.

Peni has a knack of turning everything he touches into gold. The South Auckland product has been named Auckland Club Rugby Player of the Year twice, a nod to his sustained excellence in one of the best club competitions in the world. His standout 2024 season with Southland in New Zealand’s NPC earned him the title of Rookie of the Year, solidifying his reputation as a game-changer at the professional level. Peni has represented his heritage internationally, playing for Junior Manu Samoa U20s

Known for his exceptional playmaking ability, and composure under pressure, Peni brings a unique style to the Free Jacks. Reflecting on his move, he said:

“The Free Jacks have won the competition two years in a row, and I’m here to add value to the team to make it three consecutive championships. I’m excited to learn, grow, and connect with the coaches and teammates in this new environment.”

Off the field, Peni is a devoted family man who treasures spending time with his three-year-old son. His determination, resilience, and deep connection to family fuel his passion for rugby and his drive to succeed.

profile

NAME: Faalae Faletoi Peni

POSITION:  Flyhalf

HEIGHT:  5’8″

WEIGHT:  235lbs

HOMETOWN:  Māngere Auckland, NZ

CAREER TO DATE: 

• Papakura premier. 2018-2019 

• Karaka premier (won them their 1st championship) 2020-2021

• Manukau Rovers premier (back to back championships) 2022-2023

• Ponsonby premier (won championship) 2024

• Counties u19s. 2019

• Auckland (bs, NPC wider squad) 2022-2023 

• Southland NPC. 2024

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS

• Winning 4 club championships in a row
• 2x club rugby player of the year in a row
• Rookie of the year Southland stags
• Supporters most promising player of the year (NPC)
• Golden boot club rugby 2023
• World rugby pasifika combine team 

Tell us something about yourself:

My family is very important to me, I’m a very family orientated guy, come from a big island family. Have a 3yr old boy which is most important to me and who I spend most of my time away with

What excites you the most about playing professional rugby in New England? 

Free Jacks have won the competition 2years in a row and I’m only here to add more value to the team and hopefully make it 3 consecutive years. Also love being in new environment learning of others and getting to know new people (coaches,team mates)

Simon-Peter Toleafoa: A Rising Star with International Pedigree

Joining Peni is Simon-Peter Toleafoa, another talented addition to the Free Jacks’ squad. A versatile player capable of playing fullback, wing and flyhalf, Toleafoa stands at 6’0″ and weighs 199 lbs. Toleafoa and Peni are neighbors in Māngere, Auckland where they played together for the championship winning Manukau Rovers, cohesion that will be important for the Free Jacks 2025 campaign.

Toleafoa enjoyed a breakout 2024 season with Counties Manukau Steelers in New Zealand’s NPC where he proved to be one of the best attacking players in the competition, making the top 5% of all players for ball carries, defenders beaten, linebreaks, stats indicative of his attacking prowess. His 2024 season with Counties Manukau demonstrated his ability to compete at the highest level, showcasing his running game and safety managing the backfield. Like Peni, Toleafoa has also represented Manu-Samoa U20’s at the international level.

For Toleafoa, rugby is deeply personal. “God and family come first,” he shared, emphasizing the values that guide him both on and off the field. When not on the pitch, he enjoys spending quality time with loved ones and unwinding with a round of golf.

Half Tongan and half Samoan, Toleafoa brings cultural pride and an unwavering commitment to excellence. His ability to adapt and lead under pressure makes him an invaluable asset for the Free Jacks’ continued dominance in Major League Rugby.

profile

NAME: Simon-Peter Toleafoa

POSITION:  Flyhalf / Center

HEIGHT:  6’0″

WEIGHT:  199lbs

HOMETOWN:  Mangere, Samoa

CAREER TO DATE: 

• Counties Manukau Steelers 2024

• Auckland Marist 2017-2018

• Ardmore Marist 2019-2021

• Manukau Rovers 2022-2023

• Patumahoe 2024

   

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS

• Playing for Counties Manukau Steelers 2024

Tell us something about yourself:

God first above anything, my family, partner and my close mates. Away from rugby I love to play golf (not the best at times) and enjoy spending time with love ones.

Give us a Fun Fact: 

Im half Tongan and half Samoan

A Bright Future for the Free Jacks

The addition of Peni and Toleafoa signals the Free Jacks’ intent to remain at the pinnacle of Major League Rugby. Both players embody the team’s core values of resilience, excellence, and community. Fans can look forward to watching these two stars light up the pitch and contribute to New England’s rugby legacy.

Stay tuned for exclusive interviews, behind-the-scenes content, and updates on how Faletoi and Peni are making their mark in New England. Together, let’s welcome them to the Free Jacks family and celebrate the next exciting chapter in our journey!

more articles | player announcements

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 ecstatic to announce the return of four crucial players: Cole Keith, Conor Keys, Ethan Fryer, and Paula Balekana, whose talent and determination were instrumental in securing back-to-back Major League Rugby Championships. With this quartet back in the fold, the Free Jacks are poised to build on their dynastic legacy in the 2025 season.

Image Featuring: Cole Keith (Center).

Cole Keith: 

A cornerstone of the scrum, prop Cole Keith is a force to be reckoned with. Hailing from Sussex, New Brunswick, Keith brings World Cup experience and veteran scrummaging experience in either loose or tighthead prop positions. With over 50 MLR appearances under his belt, Keith’s strength, and technical prowess make him a crucial asset in giving the Free Jacks an edge in the set piece.

Image Featuring: Conor Keys playing without his shirt against Miami Sharks

Conor Keys:

Standing tall at 6’6”, Conor Keys returns to command the Free Jacks’ lineout and bolster their physical presence in the pack. The Stittsville, Ontario native, with over 30 international caps for Canada, proved vital in 2023 with 1126 minutes played across 16 matches. Keys combines athleticism with unmatched physicality, making him a nightmare for opponents at the breakdown, in the tackle and in the air. His ability to disrupt opposition mauls and contribute to the Free Jacks’ set-piece efficiency will remain a cornerstone of their success. Fans will be hoping to see him shirtless again this season.

Image Featuring: Ethan Fryer at Veterans Memorial Stadium

Ethan Fryer: 

At just 22 years old, Ethan Fryer exemplifies the Free Jacks’ commitment to player development. From his beginnings with the Free Jacks Independents to earning a full contract and making his mark at the International level with Rugby Canada this year, Fryer’s journey is a testament to his grit and determination. A dynamic back-rower from Issaquah, Washington, with dual citizenship, Fryer’s athleticism, work rate and expertise in the breakdown make him a vital component of the Free Jacks’ high-energy style. As he continues to develop, expect Fryer to make even greater strides in 2025.

Image Featuring: Paula Belekana

Paula Balekana: 

A game-changer on the wing, Paula Balekana is a try-scoring machine. The Suva native and 2023 MLR top try-scorer returns to electrify fans with his powerful ball carrying and finishing ability. Since joining the Free Jacks in 2022, Balekana has racked up over 100 points and consistently delivered clutch performances in the biggest moments. Whether finishing off sweeping team moves or carving up defenses single-handedly, Balekana’s ability to create magic will continue to be pivotal in the Free Jacks’ attacking arsenal. 

With these four champions back in the lineup, the New England Free Jacks are not just defending their title—they’re raising the bar for excellence in Major League Rugby. Fans can look forward to another thrilling season as these players aim to cement their legacy and inspire the next generation of rugby talent in New England.

more articles | player announcements

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