The 2026 New England Free Jacks management team is a well-balanced, experienced unit that will continue to drive the Free Jacks brand and way of life forward into a new era of Major League Rugby.

Coaching Staff

Ryan Martin – Head Coach

Ryan Martin returns for his third season as Head Coach in 2026. In 2025, Martin led the Free Jacks to unprecedented success — becoming the first team in Major League Rugby history to win three consecutive championships.

Named the 2025 MLR Coach of the Year, Martin is known for his innovative attacking systems, tactical kicking strategy, and skill development expertise. His coaching journey includes stints with Super Rugby’s Melbourne Rebelsand Japan’s Toyota Verblitz. This offseason, he continued his development abroad by guiding Northland Taniwha to one of their best NPC (National Provincial Competition) seasons in years.

“With a major shake-up of the competition structure and eligibility rules this offseason, I’m excited to break new ground with the Free Jacks,” said Head Coach Ryan Martin. “Our new staff additions bring real hunger and innovation — and while MLR evolves, our Free Jacks principles remain unchanged.”

Pingi Tala’apitaga – Assistant Coach (Forwards)

Joining from Bay of Plenty Steamers (NPC), Pingi Tala’apitaga steps into the role of Assistant Coach for the forwards. The former prop brings deep expertise in the game’s “dark arts” and a keen understanding of the Free Jacks program, having worked with former assistant coach Mike Rogers and captain Joe Johnston.

Tala’apitaga’s coaching résumé includes experience with the New Zealand Black Ferns and development of multiple All Blacks and Super Rugby stars.

Josh Larsen – Assistant Coach (Defense)

A Free Jack since Day One, Josh Larsen transitions from player to coach in 2026 after six seasons and 65 appearances with the club. The Canadian international (26 caps, 2019 Rugby World Cup) captained the Free Jacks 42 times and now brings his leadership to the defensive side of the ball.

“Few people understand what this club stands for as deeply as Josh does,” said General Manager Tom Kindley. “His presence ensures we stay aligned with our north star of humility, hard work, and fun.”

Larsen has played a central role in the Free Jacks Academy, supporting local development and community rugby across New England.

Management & Analytics

Tom Kindley – General Manager

General Manager Tom Kindley leads the Free Jacks into his eighth year with the organization and seventh MLR season. Known for his sharp recruitment and retention strategies, Kindley faces new challenges under evolving MLR roster structures.

“We’re excited to get back to work,” Kindley said. “Our first priority is taking care of the people who have helped us succeed. Once that’s done, it’s time to keep pushing forward — providing great experiences, connecting with our community, and putting it all out there on the field.”

Jamie Sampson-Lizotte – Team Manager

Entering his second year as Team Manager, Jamie Sampson-Lizotte continues to play a key role in the day-to-day operations of the squad. Raised in Sudbury, Massachusetts, and a UCSB rugby alum, Sampson-Lizotte is deeply involved in events, academy operations, and community engagement.

Colton Bennett – Performance Analyst

Canadian analyst Colton Bennett returns for his fifth season with the Free Jacks. A graduate of Bishop’s University, Bennett has grown from intern to department lead and gained international experience with Manawatu Turbos and Northland Taniwha in New Zealand’s NPC.
He’s fast becoming one of North America’s top rugby analysts.

Physical Performance Staff

James Doyle – Head of Physical Performance

Irish-born James Doyle joins the Free Jacks from Northland Taniwha, where he worked closely with Ryan Martin. Doyle brings elite experience as a strength and conditioning specialist with Team GB Track & Field, RFU athletes, and the Crusaders.

“I’m excited to continue building a world-class performance program that allows our athletes to thrive,” said Doyle.

Departing Staff

The Free Jacks thank their outgoing performance coaches:

• Ricci Persico – Assistant Physical Performance Coach (2023–2025)

  “Ricci has been a rock in the department, bridging the gap between medical and performance superbly.”

• Nick Marquet – Head of Physical Performance (2025)
  Returning to North Harbour (NPC) after contributing to the Free Jacks’ 2025 championship campaign.

Medical Staff

Mike Buonopane – Head of Medical

Mike Buonopane enters his fifth season leading the medical department. A Boston native, Mike ensures every player is healthy and ready to perform, drawing on previous experience with Life University, Boston College, and Tufts University.

Adam Thomas – Assistant Physical Therapist

A veteran of the medical team and Associate Professor at South College, Adam Thomas joined in 2022 after years of academic and professional experience — including time with the Boston Red Sox during their 2018 World Series run.

Ryan Birchall – Assistant Physical Therapist

Since 2022, Ryan Birchall has supported both Free Jacks and academy athletes on game days, ensuring seamless coordination between training, recovery, and performance.

Medical & Recovery Partners

The Free Jacks extend gratitude to their medical and performance partners:

• Mui Chiropractic – Partners since 2019.
  Clinicians Karson Mui and Chullainn Kelly provide weekly and game-day care.

• New England School of Therapeutics – Partners since 2022.
  Richmond Dickson and his team train massage therapy professionals in integrated recovery methods.

• The Sanctuary / Hardkore Athletic Performance Center – Partners since 2024.
  Kevin Orcutt’s Rockland, MA center supports athlete recovery and conditioning.

• Tufts Medical Center – Longtime partner under Dr. Matt Salzler, offering top-tier physician support for the Free Jacks.

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