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