Today, the Free Jacks pay tribute to one of the club’s all-time greats, John “JP” Poland, who will move on to a new chapter following the 2025 season. JP departs having made 59 appearances (57 starts) and scored 120 points in Free Jacks colors.

The former Munster and Ireland U20 scrum-half took a bold leap to Boston ahead of the Free Jacks’ inaugural MLR season and went on to make the No. 9 jersey his own from the very first Free Jacks MLR match against New York in 2020 through to the 2023 Championship Final, where he masterfully steered the team to its first title — remarkably doing so with only half a bicep having suffered an injury earlier in the season.

A model of consistency and professionalism, JP became the first player to reach 50 appearances for the club. He was widely respected for his precise kicking game, high standards, and unwavering commitment to his teammates. In 2023 JP was part of a Free Jacks contingent that played for the Manawatu Turbos under Mike Rogers, famously beating Auckland for the first time at Eden Park since 1980!

Although a ruptured pectoral muscle curtailed his 2024 campaign, JP remained a vital presence throughout his six years in New England. He embraced the team environment and made a lasting impact off the field, coaching the Independents side and helping develop the next generation of players in New England.

The Free Jacks wish newlyweds John and Sophie every success in their next adventure and look forward to welcoming them back to Fort Quincy in the years ahead.

A Q&A with JP:

1. What was the feeling like after the final whistle in 2023?

Pure elation. We had a special group of people in 2023 and we really enjoyed our year together on and off the field so to top it off with the championship was very special. We had tasted disappointment in 2022 when we lost to New York in Quincy and that probably drove us on to be better.

2. What memories stand out as the fondest between 2020 and 2025 with the Free Jacks (on and off the field)?

– being the first freejack to get 50 caps. In the eastern conference final in 2023 against DC at home.

– first road trip with the freejacks in 2020 when we went to Las Vegas, San Diego, Seattle and then shortly after to NOLA. Some great memories on the field (beating NY for a first ever win) but mainly off the field!

– Belfast trip with the Independents. I had a rough season with injury so (Despite the score line) it was great to get to know the players properly and definitely stood to me when coaching the group again in 2025.

– vault days! Whether it was an amazing race around Boston, a duck boat trip, go karting, St Patrick’s day festival, etc. so many good days as a squad sharing a few beers.

3. What message do you want to leave with the Free Jacks community — your teammates, staff and supporters of the club?

Thank you for an amazing 6 years. I have met so many amazing people involved with the organisation from players, coaches, volunteers, fans and people who work in the community. The Free Jacks has been a huge part of my life and something I never saw coming. I’m very grateful for all the memories and friends I now have all over the world. I’ll definitely be back to Fort Quincy in the near future!

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