Arriving in Boston late Thursday night following a 5-day preseason trip to Houston, the Free Jacks look ahead to the first game of the regular season. After a physical battle against the Sabercats Wednesday night resulting in a 34-21 loss, New England looks to build off of the experience as they prepare for NOLA in Week 1.
Head Coach, Scott Mathie shared his thoughts on the preseason trip and what they they expect to see in the upcoming season opener: “We were really pleased with the content of work we have got through in pre-season which ultimately ended with a squad tour to Houston. This has proved vital on many fronts; squad connection and game time being at the forefront.”
“We have taken many learnings from the game, both from a system and personnel perspective, which we will need to put in place before our Round 1 trip to New Orleans. These games are always difficult encounters as managing varied game periods and establishing new playing partnerships can often provide tough viewing. However, I’m really encouraged by our efforts and how we applied our learnings in pre-season.”
“There is still much to improve,” stated Mathie, “but it is an encouraging start.  We are really grateful towards the management of Houston who were so hospitable during our time in Texas and look forward to growing this friendship as we forge ahead.”
“Nola is an accomplished team with a second year coaching staff looking to make waves in 2023. There have been some significant changes to their roster, all quality players who will certainly bolster their ranks. It will be a tough match up, there is no doubt about this. Our focus however will always be firmly on us, and how we can improve. I’m really looking forward to our week in preparation of this game.”
The Free Jacks will take on the NOLA Gold in New Orleans this Friday at 8PM EST. Tune in on NBC Sports Boston or the Rugby Network to cheer on the squad or attend the Official Free Jacks watch party at Hancock Tavern in Quincy at 7:30PM.
About New England Free Jacks:Â 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 12 teams in 2023, featuring 11 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
