New England Free Jacks Overview
The New England Free Jacks are a professional rugby union team based in Quincy, Massachusetts, competing in Major League Rugby (MLR). Founded in 2018, they began professional play in the 2020 season and have quickly established themselves as a dominant force in the league. The team plays home games at Veterans Memorial Stadium and is known for strong leadership and a talented roster that has secured three consecutive MLR championships from 2023 to 2025. Minority ownership includes former NFL players Nate Ebner and Patrick Chung, adding notable sports pedigree to the organization.
Founding and Organizational Origins
The Free Jacks were announced as an expansion team in Major League Rugby on September 21, 2018, with co-founders Alex Magleby and Errik Anderson spearheading the effort. The team was created to bring professional rugby to the Greater Boston area, tapping into local rugby talent and veteran players from the disbanded PRO Rugby competition. Early rosters featured a blend of experienced professionals and top regional players from clubs such as the Boston Irish Wolfhounds and Mystic River.
Growth Into Major League Rugby Competition
The Free Jacks began their competitive journey with exhibition matches in 2019, posting a 1-7 record as they built team cohesion. Their official MLR debut came in 2020, though the season was cut short due to the COVID-19 pandemic after a 1-4 start. Leadership changes followed, with Ryan Martin taking over as head coach in 2021 and guiding the team to its first winning season. Subsequent coaching by Scott Mathie saw the Free Jacks reach new heights, including playoff appearances and conference championships.
New England Free Jacks Competitive Journey
The Free Jacks have rapidly progressed from expansion newcomers to MLR champions, demonstrating consistent improvement and competitive resilience across their seasons.
Early Seasons and Development (2018–2020)
The team’s initial years focused on building a competitive squad and establishing a presence in the league. The 2019 exhibition season allowed the Free Jacks to develop chemistry despite a challenging record. Their 2020 season was interrupted by the pandemic, but Mitch Wilson scored the franchise’s first try, marking a milestone. These formative years laid the groundwork for future success.
Breakthrough in Major League Rugby (2021–2025)
Under Ryan Martin’s leadership in 2021, the Free Jacks achieved their first winning season with a 10-6 record, narrowly missing the playoffs. Scott Mathie’s tenure from 2022 to 2024 marked a period of significant achievement. The team secured the top seed in the Eastern Conference multiple times, made their first playoff appearance, and won back-to-back conference titles. In 2023, they captured their first MLR championship with a dramatic victory over the San Diego Legion. They repeated as champions in 2024 against the Seattle Seawolves and completed a historic threepeat in 2025 by defeating the Houston Sabercats. These successes were accompanied by individual accolades, including multiple MLR player of the year awards and coach of the year honors.
Modern Program and Current Direction (2025–Present)
Returning head coach Ryan Martin led the team through their 2025 championship season, overcoming early setbacks to finish first in the Eastern Conference. The Free Jacks continue to play at Veterans Memorial Stadium, which underwent renovations to enhance fan experience. The organization emphasizes strong leadership, player development, and maintaining competitive excellence. Their long-term goals include sustaining their championship pedigree and expanding rugby’s footprint in New England.
Philosophy and Competitive Strengths
The Free Jacks are known for their strategic resilience, strong defensive play, and effective use of home-field advantage. Their ability to perform under pressure and develop award-winning talent has been key to their sustained success.
Key Milestones and Major Moments
Notable moments include the franchise’s first try by Mitch Wilson, their inaugural playoff appearance in 2022, and the historic three consecutive MLR championships from 2023 to 2025. Individual honors for players like Jayson Potroz and Paula Balekana, as well as coaching awards for Scott Mathie and Ryan Martin, highlight the team’s rise.
New England Free Jacks Achievements and Results
The Free Jacks have rapidly accumulated significant accomplishments, including three Major League Rugby championships and multiple conference titles, establishing themselves as one of the league’s premier teams.
Major League Rugby Achievements
The team won its first MLR championship in 2023, defeating the San Diego Legion in a closely contested final. They successfully defended their title in 2024 against the Seattle Seawolves and completed a historic threepeat in 2025 by overcoming the Houston Sabercats. These victories marked the Free Jacks as the first team in MLR history to win three consecutive championships.
Conference Achievements
The Free Jacks have secured the Eastern Conference championship three times consecutively from 2023 to 2025. Their consistent top seeding in the conference playoffs underscores their dominance in the Eastern division and their ability to perform at a high level throughout the regular season and postseason.
Divisional Achievements
While specific divisional titles are not documented, the Free Jacks’ repeated success in the Eastern Conference playoffs and their home-field advantage at Veterans Memorial Stadium reflect strong divisional performance and community support.
Series Achievements
The Free Jacks have contributed to the growth and competitiveness of Major League Rugby by producing multiple league award winners, including players of the year and coach of the year honors. Their championship runs have elevated the profile of the league and set new standards for excellence.