New England wishes one of the original Free Jacks farewell as he embarks on the next chapter of his career.
New England wishes one of the original Free Jacks farewell as he embarks on the next chapter of his career.
The New England Free Jacks are saying goodbye to one of their founding players, Mitch Wilson, as he sets off on the next stage of his career. Over the past five seasons, Mitch has been an integral part of the Free Jacks, contributing to the team’s success both on and off the field.
Born and raised in New South Wales, Australia, Mitch started playing rugby at the age of five, continuing his journey when he moved to Oviedo, Florida at fifteen. After gaining recognition as a USA Rugby High School All-American in 2014 and playing for the U20s in 2016, Mitch quickly climbed the ranks, representing the USA Selects and eventually debuting for the United States Eagles in 2022.
Image Featuring: Wilson Scoring a Try against NOLA Gold in 2023
Mitch’s arrival in New England ahead of the inaugural 2020 Major League Rugby season marked the beginning a partnership that would help define the Free Jacks’ identity. Over five seasons and 57 appearances, Mitch became one of the most capped players in Free Jacks history. Most frequently seen on the wing, his versatility across the backline, coupled with his intelligence and commitment to the game, earned him accolades as one of the league’s top talents.
Reflecting on his time with the Free Jacks, Mitch said, “I’ve loved my time in New England with the Free Jacks. They have made me feel at home from the beginning, with great people in the organization and community. I’m really grateful to have been a part of something special in such a historic sporting city. Thank you to everyone involved over the years—teammates, coaches, staff, and fans.”
Image Featuring: Mitch Wilson
On the field, Mitch’s stats speak for themselves: 17 tries, 102 points, 328 tackles, 294 carries for nearly 3,000 meters, 112 defenders beaten, and 18 clean breaks. His consistent excellence and unrelenting work ethic played a crucial role in leading the Free Jacks to three Eastern Conference Finals, two Eastern Conference Championship titles and two Major League Rugby Championship titles. A true competitor, Mitch was never afraid to put his body on the line, and his commitment to his team and fans made him a beloved figure in the Free Jacks community.
Mitch’s contribution went beyond his versatile play across the backline. Known for his leadership and commitment, he was a key figure in shaping the team’s culture. From scoring the first-ever Free Jacks try in 2020 to his consistent performances across five seasons, Wilson was always dependable, starting in 51 of his 57 matches and playing a lead role in both of the Free Jacks’ championship seasons.
Image Featuring: Mitch Wilson
Yet, Mitch’s impact goes far beyond the numbers. His Minuteman Award in 2022 honored not just his skill, but his selflessness and leadership. Mitch’s dedication to his teammates, his mentorship of new players, and his genuine care for the Free Jacks family have left an indelible mark on the culture of the team. Whether he was shaking hands with fans after a match or coaching future generations of players at Dartmouth, Harvard, or local rugby clubs, Mitch embodied what it means to be a Free Jack on and off the field.
“Mitch has poured everything into the jersey over the past five years,” said Free Jacks General Manager, Tom Kindley “In doing so, his actions have helped to define what it means to be a Free Jack. As much as we’ll miss his tenacious and intelligent play, we’ll miss his fully bought-in and caring nature off-field, and the way he has welcomed new players to the club. We thank Mitch for all of his hard work and wish him all the best on his next chapter. He leaves an amazing legacy behind him and will forever be part of the club.”
Wilson’s impact is deeply felt in the bonds he formed with teammates and fans. As he steps away from the Free Jacks, he leaves behind a lasting legacy in New England, one that will forever be etched in the history of the team and its community.
About Mitch Wilson:
- Capped USA Eagle
- Played for the Free Jacks since Debut 2020
- Minuteman award 2022 season
- FJ #11
- Wore the captains band for the Free Jacks Several times
- 57 Free Jacks Caps, currently the most ever
- Supported the academy and growth of rugby by coaching
- Key part of back to back championships
- Collegiate All-American
- Coached at Harvard and Dartmouth Rugby
- Scored the first ever Free Jack Try in 2020
Mitch Stats 2020 – 2024:
- Games played for the Free Jacks: 57
- Games Started: 51
- Points Scored: 102
- Tries: 17
- Conversions: 4
- Penalty Kicks: 3
- Ball Carries: 294
- Meters Gained: 2865
- Defenders Beaten: 112
- Clean Breaks: 18
- Tackles Made: 328
- Defensive Turnovers Won: 26
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