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.

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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

As we eagerly await the arrival of the 2025 Major League Rugby season, let’s take a dive into the players from the 2025 Roster who will be playing for their respective nations during this November’s international tours. 

The New England Free Jacks are turning heads not only in Major League Rugby (MLR) but across the globe as eight standout players prepare to step onto the international stage this November. 

Representing three different nations, these players are proving that the Free Jacks roster is not only deep in talent but also increasingly global in its reach and influence. With each test match, they’re bringing rugby fans from around the world into the Free Jacks fold, enhancing the team’s reputation on an international level. The experience these players gain will bring invaluable skills and insights back to Quincy, setting the stage for an exciting 2025 MLR season.

This November, two Free Jacks players are on reserve for the United States squad for their European Tour. Scrum-half Oscar Lennon and Prop Kaleb Geiger have been named in the reserves, and although Lennon and Geiger await their moment on the field, their presence in the roster exemplifies the Free Jacks’ commitment to nurturing American players who are ready to compete internationally.

The Canadian national team, who are preparing for a challenging tour in Romania, have called up a strong Free Jacks contingent. Back-to-back MLR champions Andrew Quattrin, Ben Lesage, Cole Keith, and Ethan Fryer, along with new signee Josiah Morra bring a wealth of experience to Canada’s lineup. These players, each a core component of the Free Jacks’ past and future successes, will represent their nation on the European stage. Their chemistry, and skills cultivated in MLR will be crucial assets for Canada. Watching these five Free Jacks suit up for Canada will surely ignite interest from Canadian fans eager to support them in both the national and MLR arenas.

Adding yet another international touch to the Free Jacks’ roster, Jone Koroiduadua has been called up to join the Flying Fijians this month. Known for his power, and scrummaging, Koroiduadua is a thrilling addition to Fiji’s squad. His performances with Fiji previously have already made him a fan favorite, and his upcoming impact for the Free Jacks will undoubtedly draw more fans from the Pacific to keep an eye on the upcoming MLR season.

Image Featuring: Ethan Fryer who has been called up to Rugby Canada this November

With a roster packed with national team players, the 2025 Free Jacks are shaping up to be one of the most electrifying teams in MLR. These international call-ups not only validate the skill level present within the Free Jacks but also underscore the team’s growing appeal worldwide. As the Free Jacks’ influence stretches across borders, rugby fans from the U.S., Canada, Fiji, and beyond are joining the Free Jacks family, solidifying New England’s status as a true rugby powerhouse. 

Beyond the Autumn International Tours, the Free Jacks 2025 roster has a wealth of internationally experienced players from 9 different nations. (See the full list below). Highlighting the importance of excellence to the organization. However, the Free Jacks dedication to excellence doesn’t stop at international recruitment, the organization is just as dedicated to offering excellence to building home grown talent, read more about home grown development here. 

For Head Coach Ryan Martin and General Manager Tom Kindley, having players with international test rugby experience is more than just a point of pride; it’s a strategic advantage. Players who compete on the world stage bring invaluable insights, resilience, and leadership skills back to the club, enriching the team’s culture and raising the standard of play. By bringing in top-tier athletes with international experience, the Free Jacks are setting the foundation for another thrilling MLR season—one that promises to capture the hearts of rugby fans across New England and beyond. 

Free Jacks Players Called Up this November:

USA European Tour

• Oscar Lennon (Reserves)
• Kaleb Geiger (Reserves)

Canada Romania Tour

• Andrew Quattrin
• Ben Lesage
• Cole Keith
• Ethan Fryer
• Jossiah Morra

Fiji Flying Fijians

• Jone Koroiduadua

Free Jacks Players with International Experience:

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

New England Free Jacks Announce 2024 Roster

The 2024 Squad Boasts the Highest ever Player Retention Rate

Quincy, MA – Today the New England Free Jacks revealed the 2024 roster set to defend the 2023 Major League Rugby (MLR) championship in Quincy, Massachusetts this coming March. 

The initial squad of 38 players will benefit from having the highest player retention rate of the club to date with 24 players who were part of the 2023 Championship team returning, including all 4 2023 All-MLR first team selections. 4 of the inaugural 2020 Free Jacks side return for their 5th season with the club. The team features 22 North American eligible players (10 American and 12 Canadian).

“Led by a strong core of returning players from our championship side, we are really happy with the balance of our 2024 squad,” commented Free Jacks General Manager, Tom Kindley. “Our players have fun here and you’ve been able to see that come to life on the field the past couple of seasons. We had a real focus on recruiting players who align with the Free Jack way of life this off-season and can’t wait to get to work ahead of another big year.”

Leading into 2024 all eyes will be on returning league MVP and top point scorer Jayson Potroz. Coming off a superb New Zealand National Provincial Championship (NPC) winning campaign with the Taranaki Bulls, the dazzling 32 year old fly-half will again be pulling the strings in 2024. 

MLR 2023 forward of the year, the abrasive Wian Conradie returns for his fourth MLR season. Conradie dominated the gainline during 2023 with 34 dominant tackles, and 216 carries. Wian will be joined by his Namibian teammate and All-MLR first team compatriot Le Roux Malan who has become a formidable force in the midfield since 2022, scoring a quickfire 9 tries over 11 games last season. 

Fijian try-scoring sensation Paula Balekana returns after notching a league record 15 tries last season. He is joined in the backline by All-MLR first team selection and Rugby Canada captain, Ben Lesage. All-MLR 2023 honorable mentions Reece MacDonald and Andrew Quattrin return after both impressing in their first season in New England.

In a team that boasts 524 Free Jacks appearances, four veterans will be returning for their 5th season with the club, bringing experience and driving cohesion. Club captain Josh Larsen returns from injury poised for a big year, fan favorite Kyle Ciquera returns after his strongest season to date (starting 12 games), USA international Mitch Wilson returns after a busy off-season at the international level, and the ever-reliable John Poland returns after becoming the first player to play 50 games for the Free Jacks, and securing All-MLR second team honors.

Instrumental in the 2023 championship run, captain and All-MLR second team selection Mitch Jacobson will return later in the season due to family commitments. Free Jacks fans will be happy to see the re-signing of Haverhill native Cam Davidowicz who returns after an off-season abroad playing with the Manawatu Turbos in New Zealand with fellow returning Free Jacks including Ethan Fryer and Cole Keith, an amazing development opportunity. 

14 newcomers are headlined by Chilean National Team Captain Chilean men’s national team captain Martín Sigren. Sigren joins a typically strong back row that includes other new additions in Tongan-New Zealander Sitaleki Baker of the Tasman Mako in the NPC, and former Houston Sabercat, Jaco Bezuidenhout.

In the front row, Sean Ralph (Waikato) and Malakai Hala (Manawatu) arrive from the New Zealand NPC having been recognized as national standouts at the under 20 level. MLR veterans Mason Koch (Chicago) and John-Roy Jenkinson (Atlanta) add battle hardened experience into the mix. 

Canadian Internationals, veteran Kyle Baillie, and Oxford graduate Piers von Dadelszen arrive to strengthen the second row. Baillie joins the Free Jacks after an outstanding 2023 campaign with Old Glory DC where he was awarded All-MLR second team honors, whereas von Dadelszen is just beginning his international career.

Draft picks and developing players are a highlight of the 2024 roster with 1st round pick and Canadian International Gabriel Casey, as well as 2nd round pick – Brown Football Linebacker and USA age-grade rugby player, Junior Gafa both earning contracts. Boston born Irishman Killian Coghlan is another to keep an eye on and adds options across the backline. 

Other roster highlights include the exciting Cameron Nordli-Kelemeti who arrives from the Newcastle Falcons in the English premiership. Skillful left-footer Danyon Morgan-Puterangi of North Harbour in the NPC arrives as a fly half/fullback option. Both will have important roles to play in 2024. 

In outbound news, the Free Jacks would like to congratulate Semisi Paea (FJ #75) and Mills Sanerivi (FJ #60) who have earned Super Rugby contracts with Moana Pasifika and the Waikato Chiefs respectively. Mills made 31 appearances, scoring 8 tries during the 2022 and 2023 MLR seasons.

Beaudein Waaka (FJ #15) will be released to take up another playing opportunity in Japan with Skyactivs Hiroshima in the Japanese third division. The 2022 MLR MVP has played 37 games to date for the Free Jacks between 2020 and 2023, leading the club for points scored, with 270 points in his Free Jacks career to date.

Joe Johnston (FJ #35) will not be returning to the Free Jacks for the 2024 season, instead focusing on his studies and rugby in New Zealand. Joe has been instrumental in the success and development of the club over the past three seasons, playing in 95% of the matches through that period (48 appearances to date).

The Free Jacks would like to thank Semisi, Mills, Beaudein, Joe, and all of our championship players who will not be returning in 2024 for their contributions to the club, region and our people. 

The Free Jacks are about to commence a 2 week voluntary winter camp with the best local club and collegiate players in the area invited with an eye on the next players in line. As always the player acquisition process is ongoing, so keep an eye out for more information on development and contracted player additions in the lead up to the season.

With the team now announced, we can now look ahead to Opening Day at Veterans Memorial Stadium. The Free Jacks will host eight matches in 2024 beginning in March. Dates and times will be announced at a later date. Free Jacks Season Memberships for the 2024 campaign can be found here.

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