Quincy, MA — September 29, 2022 — The New England Free Jacks confirm the signing of Bunnings NPC standout fly half Jayson Potroz for the 2023 Major League Rugby Season. The experienced Taranaki, NZ native joins the squad amidst a robust run with the Taranaki Bulls, with whom he’s played since 2018.  

“Jayson comes to us on the back of many successful years in the NPC.” noted head coach Scott Mathie. “He has really come of age as a pivot, combining his attacking prowess with a measured kicking game. He will give us the direction we need and bring a real threat to our attacking systems. He’s a player that will have the respect of his peers off the bat and will fit in really well with what we are about here in New England. To be able to bring in a player of his proven quality is a big coup for us and we are excited to see his story unfold here at the Free Jacks.” 

“Jayson has an awesome story in becoming a professional rugby player, somewhat unconventional in this day and age as he is a true one club professional,” said general manager Tom Kindley. “Jayson played premier club rugby in his region since 2009, he has represented Taranaki through the age grades and 7s program before cracking into the Taranaki NPC side initially starting as a wing/fullback before moving to more of a mainstay at 10. He is a wise head with ability to take on the line and create attacking opportunities, as well as sound game management skills and will be a handful for oppositions. He and his family are looking forward to a new adventure in his rugby career. A humble hardworking team first guy, he will be a great fit for New England.” 

“I’m very grateful and excited to have the opportunity to join the New England Free Jacks organization.” said Jayson  “I’m looking forward to meeting all the staff and my new teammates, earning all their respect by working hard and being a good bugger. Also to the fans and the community, I can’t wait to get involved and meet you all.”

Outside of rugby Jayson enjoys golf, basketball, and fishing. 

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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.

About Major League Rugby: Major League Rugby is a professional sports league, entering its fifth season and represents the highest level of rugby competition in North America. The League evolved from seven teams in 2018, to 13 teams in 2021, featuring 12 from the United States and one from Canada. Matches are televised on CBS Sports Network, Fox Sports 2, among other national and local market platforms. Select matches are available to stream live in North America on The Rugby Network, and all matches are available on The Rugby Network for international fans. MLR prides itself in fostering intense and high-stakes competition, while bringing together a passionate community built on the values of Respect, Inclusivity, and Tradition. For more information about MLR, visit www.MajorLeague.Rugby