The New England Free Jacks are thrilled to announce the appointment of Nick Marquet as the team’s Head of Physical Performance for the 2025 Major League Rugby season. Coming from the highest levels of rugby in New Zealand and the Pacific Islands, Marquet is set to bring experience, and innovation to the Free Jacks’ management team.

A Proven Track Record of Success

Hailing from Auckland, New Zealand, Marquet has been an integral part of several championship-winning teams throughout his career. 

His contributions to the Waikato FPC (New Zealand’s national women’s competition) from 2020 to 2023 were capped by their 2021 title win where he worked alongside former Free Jacks coach, Mike Rogers. He also played a pivotal role in the Chiefs Manawa’s triumph in the 2022 Super Rugby Aupiki competition. 

Most recently, Marquet has worked with Moana Pasifika (Super Rugby Pacific) and North Harbour (NPC) during the 2024 campaigns, further honing his craft at the cutting edge of physical performance in rugby.

Image Featuring: Nick Marquet at North Harbour

Philosophy and Approach

Marquet’s passion for physical performance stems from his personal journey of transitioning from a role he wasn’t passionate about to a career that he loves. He operates by the mantra: “You never work a day in your life if you love what you do.” This philosophy underpins his approach to building and leading high-performing teams.

“My focus is on professionalism, attention to detail, and a practical approach that integrates functional rugby elements,” says Marquet. “I aim to create a relatable environment for athletes, understanding their needs to ensure they deliver their best on the field every weekend.”

Excitement for New Challenges

Joining the Free Jacks presents a unique opportunity for Marquet to make an impact not only at the professional level but also in the broader development of rugby in North America. “The game is growing rapidly here, and I’m excited to be part of that growth,” he shares. “The chance to lead a successful program, build on its achievements, and add my own flavor to it is something I’m incredibly passionate about.”

Building the Future

As the Free Jacks gear up for the 2025 season, Marquet’s leadership is poised to elevate the team’s physical performance to new heights. His commitment to professionalism, innovation, and athlete development aligns perfectly with the Free Jacks’ championship-winning culture.

Please join us in welcoming Nick Marquet to New England. We can’t wait to see his expertise in action as we chase even greater heights in 2025!

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