The New England Free Jacks have announced the departure of Assistant Coach Will Webster after two remarkable seasons. Webster, who served as the team’s Forwards and Kicking Game Coach played an instrumental role in the team’s back-to-back MLR championship wins

Image Featuring: Will Webster (Left) and the 2024 Free Jacks Coaching Staff after winning the 2024 MLR Championship.

A Diverse Coaching Journey

Before joining the Free Jacks, Webster built an impressive coaching resume that spanned several countries and levels of competition. He spent two years coaching the Hong Kong national 15s and 7s teams, helping them win the Asian Rugby Championship and compete in the final Rugby World Cup repechage in 2022. Additionally, Webster served as the Head Coach for HKU Sandy Bay in the Hong Kong Premiership, where he oversaw both senior and junior development.

Webster’s coaching journey also includes time with Kenya’s national rugby programs, where he led the 7s team to its best-ever World Series finish in 2017-18.

Image Featuring: Will Webster

Impact at the Free Jacks

Alongside fellow coaches Scott Mathie, Mike Rogers and Pom Simona, Webster played a vital role in shaping the Free Jacks’ success during his two-year tenure. Under his guidance, the team’s forward pack became one of the hardest working and abrasive during the 2023 season. Ahead of the 2024 season Webster layered the kicking game strategy into his coaching portfolio playing a bigger role for the coaching team. Webster also contributed significantly to developing a strong team culture that valued hard work, enjoyment and resilience, further fostering a winning mentality within the squad.

Webster ran the international academy during the 2024 MLR season, a program designed to provide intimate developmental experiences for budding international rugby players, and one that adds to the Free Jacks academy and senior team programs. 

In a letter to Free Jacks supporters, Webster expressed his pride in the team’s progress, especially their improvements in set-piece play and their determination to compete at the highest level. He frequently highlighted the dedication and physicality of the players, which was essential to the team’s success on the field​. 

As Webster departs for new challenges, his contributions to the Free Jacks will be remembered as instrumental in establishing the team’s presence as a powerhouse in MLR. His tactical insight, and commitment to player development will leave a lasting legacy in New England rugby.

The Free Jacks organization and fans wish Webster all the best in his future endeavors and thank him for his contributions to the team and the broader rugby community​.

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