New England Free Jacks Roster Updates: New Signings and Departures
The New England Free Jacks are reshaping their squad as they prepare for the upcoming season. By integrating talent from diverse rugby backgrounds—including Major League Rugby (MLR), Super Rugby, and international leagues—the team is strategically adjusting its depth and versatility across the pitch.
Key Facts
- 21 new players have joined the New England Free Jacks roster.
- Recruits originate from various global regions, including the ACT Brumbies, Edinburgh, and Bay of Plenty.
- 11 players have departed the club for various international and domestic teams.
- The roster includes a cross-code addition with Max Lehmann joining from the Wests Tigers (Rugby League).
New Additions to the Squad
The Free Jacks have been active in the transfer market, bringing in a significant number of players to bolster their ranks. These acquisitions span several positions and bring a wealth of experience from different competitive environments.
Notable arrivals include Ollie Aylmer from the ACT Brumbies and Kienan Higgins from Edinburgh. The team has also strengthened its ties with other MLR franchises, signing Cyrille Cama and Nathan Sylvia from the San Diego Legion, as well as Joel Hodgson and Bailey Wilson from the Utah Warriors.
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Further additions include a strong contingent from New Zealand, with Jacob Norris, Sione Tupou, and Filipe Vakasiuola all arriving from Bay of Plenty, alongside Tayne Hemopo from Tasman, Reuben Palmer from the Dunedin Sharks, and Nathan Salmon from Northland. Other key signings include Line Latu and Mitch Wilson from Anthem RC, Ethan McVeigh from Old Glory DC, Braemar Murray from the Miami Sharks, and Maliu Niuafe from RFC Los Angeles.
Rounding out the new arrivals are Alex Mackenzie from Urayasu D-Rocks and Andrew Quattrin from Valence Romans.
Player Departures
As new talent arrives, several players have moved on to new opportunities. These departures see athletes heading to various leagues across Europe, Asia, and North America.
High-profile moves include Oscar Lennon joining the Bristol Bears and Le Roux Malan moving to the Sharks. Other players heading overseas include Sam Caird to the Yokohama Canon Eagles, Faletoi Peni to Moana Pasifika, and Kaipono Kayoshi to the Green Rockets Tokatsu.
Within the domestic and English circuits, Brock Webster has joined the Chicago Hounds, while Cameron Nordli-Kelemeti and Cole Keith have moved to the Doncaster Knights. Additionally, Jack Reeves has joined Coventry and John Poland has signed with Young Munster. Andrew Quattrin has also departed for Valence Romans.
Roster Transition Summary
| Category | Key Players | Primary Origins/Destinations |
|---|---|---|
| Players In | Ollie Aylmer, Kienan Higgins, Max Lehmann | ACT Brumbies, Edinburgh, Wests Tigers |
| Players Out | Oscar Lennon, Le Roux Malan, Sam Caird | Bristol Bears, Sharks, Yokohama Canon Eagles |
Frequently Asked Questions
How many new players joined the New England Free Jacks?
A total of 21 players have been added to the roster.
Which players joined from other MLR teams?
Players joining from other Major League Rugby teams include Cyrille Cama and Nathan Sylvia (San Diego Legion), Joel Hodgson and Bailey Wilson (Utah Warriors), Ethan McVeigh (Old Glory DC), Braemar Murray (Miami Sharks), and Maliu Niuafe (RFC Los Angeles).
Are there any rugby league converts in the new signings?
Yes, Max Lehmann has joined the squad from the Wests Tigers, a Rugby League team.
Which players left for teams in the United Kingdom?
Players departing for UK-based teams include Oscar Lennon (Bristol Bears), Cameron Nordli-Kelemeti and Cole Keith (Doncaster Knights), Jack Reeves (Coventry), and John Poland (Young Munster).
How many players were recruited from Bay of Plenty?
Three players—Jacob Norris, Sione Tupou, and Filipe Vakasiuola—joined the Free Jacks from Bay of Plenty.