​As the Free Jacks prepare to defend their MLR title in 2026, the club has reinforced its roster with a blend of returning leaders and newly US-qualified standouts who bolster depth and raise the competitive standard across the squad. From long-serving New England stalwarts to fresh arrivals with international pedigree, the Free Jacks enter 2026 with a strengthened foundation and a deeper pool of domestic talent ready to push the program forward.

Joe Johnston Returns for Season 5 With the New England Free Jacks

Joe “The Mechanic” Johnston is as synonymous with the Free Jacks as turkey is with cranberry sauce at Thanksgiving. The 27-year-old openside flanker was instrumental in delivering the club’s first and third championships (2023 and 2025), returning to Boston this past season after completing his studies and spending time with family in New Zealand.

Renowned for relentless effort and breakdown dominance, Johnston’s ties to Boston run deep—his mother grew up locally, his father played club rugby in the region, and his brother Alex represented the Free Jacks in 2022. The 2025 title was particularly meaningful, with his parents present to see him captain the side to another championship.

Johnston’s continuity with the coaching group is a major asset: he previously played under Ryan Martin in both New Zealand and New England, has been coached by incoming forwards coach Pingi Tala’apitaga at Bay of Plenty, and spent multiple seasons alongside former captain Josh Larsen. Across four MLR seasons, Johnston has played 67 matches, captained the squad 23 times, and recorded 10 tries. In 2025, he finished 2nd in the league for minutes played (1,349) and 5th in tackles made (200), further solidifying his status as one of the league’s premier flankers.

Kyle Ciquera: The Longest-Tenured Free Jack Returns for Year 7

Kyle “The Eagle” Ciquera—hometown hero of Putnam, Connecticut—returns for his seventh MLR season and remains the only active player who has been with the club since its 2019 exhibition campaign. A product of Bishop Hendricken High School, the Free Jacks academy pathway, and St. Bonaventure University, Ciquera has become a foundational figure in New England rugby.

The powerful loosehead prop has made 64 MLR appearances, crossing the try line twice, including a historic score against the Chicago Hounds that proved essential in securing the 2025 Championship berth. His resilience and impact were on full display in 2025 as he returned from a significant ACL injury to anchor the front row once again. Newly married and entering 2026 in peak form, Ciquera stands poised to elevate his scrummaging under forwards coach Pingi Tala’apitaga.

Kaleb Geiger: Three-Time Champion and USA Eagle Returns for Year 3

USA Eagle #566 and crossover star Kaleb Geiger returns for his third season with the Free Jacks—and just his sixth year playing rugby. The 6’1”, 255-lb hooker/prop is one of MLR’s most explosive athletes, blending power, agility, and relentless physicality.

In 2025, Geiger appeared in 17 matches and delivered standout numbers:

• 92 carries for 391 meters

• 136 tackles (17 dominant)

Since joining New England in 2024, he has played 31 matches, adding to 34 earlier appearances with the New York Ironworkers. Internationally, Geiger has earned 10 caps with the USA Eagles and continues to rise as one of America’s most dynamic forwards.

Tevita Sole: Breakthrough Star Ready for 2026

After his strongest season since arriving in 2022, Tevita Sole is set to make major strides in 2026. At 5’10”, 260 lbs, the former Tonga U20 prop is known for his powerful scrummaging, dynamism around the field, and infectious presence in the locker room.

Sole has accumulated 31 appearances (9 starts) across his Free Jacks career, including 12 matches and 5 starts in 2025—culminating in Breakthrough Player of the Year honors. A valuable loan spell with the Miami Sharks in 2024 accelerated his development, and in 2026 he will officially become MLR domestic-qualified after four years of residency. Under coach Tala’apitaga, expect even larger leaps from Sole this season.

Killian Coghlan Returns for a Third Season in New England

Boston-born and Ireland-raised utility back Killian Coghlan returns after a promising 2025 campaign where his playing time more than doubled. The 6’3”, 225-lb outside centre/wing earned five starts before injury halted his momentum.

A product of UCC Rugby with experience representing Irish Universities and USA U20s, Coghlan continues to evolve into a tough, intelligent back. His background in hurling and Gaelic football contributes to his strong aerial skills, kicking ability, and spatial awareness. Expect continued development in 2026 as he returns hungry for more minutes.

Wayne van der Bank: 2024 MLR MVP Becomes USA-Eligible

Since joining the Free Jacks in 2022, Wayne van der Bank has reshaped the club’s midfield with his relentless work rate, tackle-breaking ability, and unmatched consistency. Now entering 2026, he will officially become US-eligible—opening the door to potential national team selection in 2027.

Across four seasons in Boston, van der Bank has played 57 matches (48 starts) and scored 16 tries. His historic 2024 season included:

• 126 defenders beaten

• 1,353 meters gained

• 187 tackles

His contributions helped guide the Free Jacks to all three of their championships, and his ongoing role with the academy and Harvard Women’s Rugby underscores his deep commitment to the region’s rugby ecosystem.

Joel Hodgson Joins the Free Jacks as a Newly US-Qualified Flyhalf

Veteran flyhalf Joel Hodgson arrives in Boston after three standout seasons with the Utah Warriors—and as a newly US-qualified player for the 2026 MLR season. The 33-year-old brings exceptional leadership, tactical mastery, and an elite kicking game.

Hodgson’s 2025 season was one of the finest in the league:

• 3rd in MLR in points scored (96)

• 7 tries, 17 offloads

• 85 carries for 832 meters

• Led MLR in total kick meters (4,836)

Before coming to MLR, Hodgson starred across a decade with the Newcastle Falcons, totaling 166 appearances and 606 points. His experience and composure will be invaluable as he steps into a key role for New England in 2026.

Jamason Fa’anana-Schultz Signs With the Free Jacks for 2026

USA Eagle #534 Jamason Fa’anana-Schultz brings power, aggression, and big-match experience to New England’s back row. At 6’2″, 263 lbs, the Australian-born loose forward has been one of MLR’s most destructive ball carriers since 2019.

Across six seasons, he has appeared in 70 MLR matches, scored 13 tries, and captained Old Glory DC 25 times. In 2025 alone, he delivered:

• 128 carries for 562 meters

• 87 tackles

• 13 offloads and 12 turnovers won

Internationally, Fa’anana-Schultz has earned 16 caps for the USA Eagles. His arrival signals the Free Jacks’ intention to continue elevating their physicality and depth heading into 2026.

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