The New England Free Jacks second 2025 Squad announcement

The New England Free Jacks are thrilled to announce the arrival of two key signings to bolster the 2025 roster: Jeronimo Gomez Vara, a dynamic back row from Argentina, and Kyle Steeves, a powerful prop hailing from Canada. Both players were signed from the Dallas Jackals and are eager to make their mark in New England.

Jeronimo Gomez Vara

Standing at 6’2” and weighing 232.5 pounds, Jeronimo Gomez Vara is coming off a remarkable 2024 season with the Dallas Jackals, where he was named MLR’s Forward of the Year. The 23 year-old was instrumental in Dallas’ historic playoff run, where he captained the side to not only their first playoff appearance, but a playoff win against the high-flying Houston Sabercats. A dynamic and versatile player, Jeronimo made 128 tackles, won 8 turnovers and beat 53 defenders with ball in hand whilst playing across the second and back row positions during the 2024 season. A proficient aerialist, Gomez Vara was also among the top 4 players for lineout takes, and second for lineout steals.

When asked what excites you about playing for the Free Jacks, he said, “I love the community of rugby that New England has. Also the culture and spirit of the team. I loved to play against Free Jacks these past seasons and can’t wait to join the team.”

Fans can expect to see his competitive drive in full display, whether dominating lineouts or making key turnovers.

Highlight Reel

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NAME:  Jeronimo Gomez Vara

POSITION:  Back Row

HEIGHT:  6’2

WEIGHT:  232 lbs

PREVIOUS TEAM:  Dallas Jacks

HOMETOWN:  Corrientes, Argentina

CAREER TO DATE: 

• Olimpia Lions | SLAR 2021
• Jaguares XV | SLAR 2022
• Dallas Jackals  | MLR 23/24

Tell us about yourself: 

“What’s important to me is to be a good person and pleasant to work with. Away from rugby I like music and when I have the chance I like to go skiing”.

Kyle Steeves

Kyle Steeves, a 6’0″, 263-pound, 24 year-old tighthead prop, brings his own brand of power and precision to the Free Jacks. A former wrestler and Canadian national champion, Steeves has applied his athleticism to rugby and quickly moved through the ranks, earning his first international cap for Canada against Namibia in 2022. Steeves continued to impress during the 2024 MLR season with his ball carrying ability, and high work rate for the Jackals. The tighthead prop appeared in 17 matches and carried the ball 39 times for 215 meters. Now the up-and-coming Canadian is eager to contribute to New England’s pack. 

Hailing from Winnipeg, Steeves shares his excitement about joining the Free Jacks. “I’m excited for the culture of the team, they look like they really have the support of the community behind them and that’s really exciting to see.

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NAME:  Kyle Steeves

POSITION: Prop

HEIGHT:  6′

WEIGHT:  263 lbs

PREVIOUS TEAM:  Dallas Jacks

HOMETOWN:  Winnipeg Manitoba, Canada

CAREER TO DATE: 

• Manitoba Wombats 2016
• Pacific Pride 2021-2022 
• Senior Mens Canada | INT 2022 – 2024 
• Dallas Jackals | MLR 2023-2024

Give us a Fun Fact: 

“Before I played Rugby, I was a Canadian National Wrestling Champion”.

As the Free Jacks prepare to defend their back-to-back championship titles, the spirited additions of Gomez Vara and Steeves will further strengthen an already formidable lineup. Both players are ready to hit the ground running, bringing their experience and work ethic to the Free Jacks. 

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to shape our 2025 squad and get ready for another unforgettable season!

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