Free Jacks 2024 MLR Collegiate Draft Picks confirmed

The New England Free Jacks are excited to announce their 2024 Collegiate Draft picks, adding a new wave of young talent to the roster. These selections bring a mix of proven winners, raw athleticism, and local passion that promises to energize the team as we look toward another exciting season in Major League Rugby.

Image Credit: St Mary’s College of California Image Featuring:Kaipono Kayoshi

Kaipono Kayoshi

Round 1 | Pick 4
Position: Back Row | Height: 6’1 | Weight: 225 lbs | Hometown: Moraga, California | College: Saint Mary’s College of California | Major: Kinesiology

Selected in the first round, Kaipono Kayoshi is a highly-rated flanker out of Saint Mary’s College of California. Standing at 6’1″ and weighing 225 lbs, Kaipono has already made a name for himself in the rugby world. His leadership was instrumental in leading Saint Mary’s to a Division 1A National Championship last season. A former USA Rugby Under-23 select, Kaipono was also named a first-team collegiate All-American for the 2023-24 season. Hailing from Moraga, California, and majoring in Kinesiology, Kaipono is known for his work ethic, tactical awareness, and fearless style of play. As a back-row player, he brings versatility and strength to the Free Jacks’ pack and is expected to make an immediate impact.

Image Credit: Life University. Image Featuring: Matthew Carrion (center)

Matthew Carrion

Round 2 | Pick 14
Position: Back Row | Height: 223lbs | Weight: 6’ | Hometown: Carlisle, Pennsylvania | College: Life University | Major: Business Administration

Joining Kaipono in bolstering the back row is Matt Carrion, a powerful and aggressive player from Life University. At 6’0″ and 223 lbs, Matt’s rugby journey has been defined by consistency and competitiveness. A four-year starter at Life University, Matt has already tasted success at a high level, winning the American Rugby Premiership with his team. His experience includes representing USA Rugby as a junior national team player, which adds an invaluable layer of experience to the Free Jacks’ squad. Coming from Carlisle, Pennsylvania, and holding a degree in Business Administration, Matt is a versatile player who will be a key asset in both offensive and defensive situations.

Image Featuring: Emanuel Lai (center)

Emanuel Lai

Round 4 | Pick 36
Position: Scrum-Half | Height: 5’8 | Weight: 170lbs | Hometown: Old Greenwich, Connecticut | College: Santa Clara University | Major: Psychology

Rounding out the draft picks is Emanuel Lai, a dynamic scrum-half from Old Greenwich, Connecticut. Emanuel started playing rugby at the age of seven and has since developed into a crafty halfback known for his quick distribution and sharp decision-making. Standing at 5’8″ and weighing 170 lbs, he’s a third-team collegiate All-American who played his collegiate rugby at Santa Clara University. With a major in Psychology, Emanuel combines his understanding of the game with a strategic mind, making him a playmaker to watch. As a New England native, Emanuel brings a hometown spirit to the Free Jacks, and fans can expect him to be a spark plug for the team’s attack.

These three promising athletes—Kaipono Kayoshi, Matt Carrion, and Emanuel Lai—are set to bring new energy, skill, and determination to the Free Jacks. As we look ahead to the 2024 season, these draft picks will be pivotal in our quest for rugby excellence. Welcome to New England, gentlemen—let’s make this a season to remember!

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