This Saturday, May 10, at 4:00 PM EST, the New England Free Jacks will face the Chicago Hounds at Veterans Memorial Stadium in Quincy, Massachusetts, for a match that will not only impact the Eastern Conference standings but could also set the tone for the rest of the season. As two of the league’s most successful teams this season, both sides are locked in a thrilling race for the top spot, with only a two-point difference separating them. The Free Jacks currently sit atop the conference with 40 points, closely followed by the Hounds, who have 38.

This high-stakes match is more than just another regular-season game: it’s a critical showdown that could dictate who will secure the No. 1 seed in the playoffs. With both teams playing at an exceptionally high level, every point matters. The Free Jacks are on a six-game win streak, demonstrating their dominance and resilience, while the Hounds have proven themselves as formidable opponents. This clash is personal for New England, as the Free Jacks are looking to avenge their disappointing 36-7 loss to Chicago in Round 3 earlier this season.

400 Years of Quincy

To add to the excitement, this game will coincide with the Quincy Day Festival, a celebration of Quincy’s 400th anniversary. Fans will have the chance to enjoy live music, delicious food, cold drinks, and, of course, top-tier rugby. In honor of the city’s milestone, the Free Jacks will don a special Quincy 400 City kit, making this event even more memorable.

The Free Jacks have planned several exciting activations to celebrate Quincy’s 400th anniversary, ensuring that this match will be an unforgettable experience for both the team and the community:

• Quincy 400 City Jersey: The team is celebrating the city’s anniversary with a special Quincy 400 City Jersey. Fans can get in on the excitement leading up to the match by checking out the new jersey and related merchandise, creating buzz and building anticipation through social media contests and giveaways.

   

• Celebrating Quincy Heroes: As part of the Free Jacks’ Impact Free Jack initiative, fans are invited to nominate local heroes from Quincy—those who go above and beyond for their community. Nominations can be shared on social media with a special hashtag, and selected heroes will be celebrated during the game, recognizing their contributions to the community.

   

• Quincy Animal Shelter: The Quincy Animal Shelter will be on-site, offering information about pet adoptions in the area. Fans will have the chance to learn more about the shelter’s mission and meet adoptable animals, helping raise awareness about the importance of animal rescue.

   

• 6th Grade Broad Meadows Middle School Drawing: Students from Broad Meadows Middle School have created hand-drawn portraits of the Free Jacks players, which will be featured on the team’s roster for the game and displayed on the video board as players enter the field. This collaboration adds a personal touch to the game and strengthens the connection between the Free Jacks and the local community.
  

• South Shore Beer Festival: Featuring local beers and craft cocktails

Head coach Ryan Martin has emphasized the significance of this match, not just for the team’s season but for the legacy they are building. “If you’re going to take the responsibility of donning a jersey for the 400th anniversary of the city that has adopted us as sons, it is not a responsibility to take lightly,” Martin said. “This match has a little bit of sting to it after our performance in Round 3. It is personal for our group, and we’re eager to deliver a performance our supporters will be proud of.”

Martin also highlighted the team’s ability to adapt to different playing styles, which will be crucial against a tough and physical Hounds team. “We’re excited around the physical challenge this game presents,” he added.

Game Details

• Date: Saturday, May 10, 2025

   

• Kickoff: 4:00 PM EST

   

• Location: Veterans Memorial Stadium, Quincy, MA

   

• Festivities: Quincy Day celebrations start at 2:00 PM, with live music, food, and drinks

   

• Streaming: ESPN+ and NBC Sports Boston

   

This is a must-watch game for any rugby fan—one that promises fireworks on the field, a thrilling atmosphere off the field, and the potential to shape the Eastern Conference for the rest of the season. Don’t miss it!

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