- MAR 2
- 2PM EST
- CHICAGO
take on

HEAD TO HEAD HISTORY
UPDATED AS OF MRCH 7 2025
4
FREE JACKS
RED JERSEY
•
2
SEAWOLVES
GREEN & BLUE JERSEY
LAST MEETING: JULY 27 2024
23
•
17
ALL TIME WIN RECORD
UPDATED AS OF MRCH 7 2025
•
2025 SEASON TO DATE
UPDATED AS OF MRCH 7 2025
FREE JACKS
PLAYED 2
WIN - LOSS - TIE
1 - 1 - 0
SEAWOLVES
PLAYED 2
WIN - LOSS - TIE
0 - 2 - 0
TRIES SCORED
CARRIES
DEFENDERS BEATEN
Penalty Conceded
TACKLES MADE
TURNOVERS WON
SETTING THE SCENE
New England claimed its second-straight MLR Shield in the last meeting between these inter-conference rivals and league blue bloods. In a match defined by penalty kick goals, Jayson Potroz slotted five of them to propel the Free Jacks to victory. Joe Taufete’e (Seattle) and Le Roux Malan (New England) scored the match’s only tries, and Mack Mason added two penalty kicks for the Seawolves as New England proved victorious in San Diego.
COACHES COMMENTS
“The Free Jacks are excited to test themselves against Seattle at their home turf. Coming off a disappointing performance against Chicago the team will be looking forward to putting out a performance we are proud of with some exciting additions to the team this week which will add some real spark!” – Head Coach Ryan Martin
QUICK FACTS
2018
FOUNDED
2017
2020
1st szn.
2018
4
szn plyd
8
QUINCY MA
home
seattle wA
EASTERN
CONF.
WESTERN
54
WINS
63
21
LOSSES
43
0
DRAW
1
2023, 2024
CHAMPS
2018, 2019
RED, WHITE, BLUE
COLORS
green, bLUE, white
TOM KINDLEY
GM
Allen Clarke
RYAN MARTIN
COACH
Allen Clarke
STARTING XV
FREE JACKS
SEATTLE
Tevita Sole
1
Cameron Orr
Andrew Quattrin
2
Kerron van Vuuren
Jone Koroiduaduaa
3
Juan Pablo Zeiss
Piers Von Dadelszen
4
Rhyno Herbst
Conor Keys
5
Malembe Mpofu
Jeronimo Gomez Vara
6
Huw Taylor
Joe Johnston (c)
7
Devin Short
Wian Conradie
8
Riekert Hattingh
Jayson Potroz
10
Eduard Fouché
Brock Webster
11
Mikaele Kruse
Faletoi Peni
12
Esekia Iona
Killian Coghlan
13
Divan Rossouw
Simon-Peter Toleafoa
14
Lauina Futi
Harrison Boyle
15
Duncan Matthews
RESERVES
Foster Dewitt
16
Dewald Kotze
Cole Keith
17
Dewald Donald
Kaleb Geiger
18
Mason Pedersen
Kyle Baillie
19
Isaia Lotawa
Kaipono Kayoshi
20
Siaosi Mahoni
Cam Nordli-Kelemeti
21
Brock Gallagher
Jack Reeves
22
David Busby
Wayne van der Bank
23
Malacchi Esdale
COACHES
ryan martin
HEAD
Allen Clarke
POM SIMONA
ASST
IAN WATSON
DEWALD SENKAL
ASST
VALENESE MALIFA
RECOVERY
Sam Caird
-
--
Isaac Olson
-
--
Connal McInerney
-
--
Josh Larsen
-
--
Ben Lesage
-
--
Ethan fryer
-
--
Kyle Ciquera
-
--
Jackson Thiebes
-
--
FULL ROSTER
FJ
NAME
POS
AGE
HT
LBS
🔊
74
Cole Keith
Prop
🇨🇦
28
6’1"
253
A cornerstone of the Free Jacks’ scrum, Cole Keith brings a wealth of experience and raw power to the front row. Hailing from Sussex, New Brunswick, the versatile prop has amassed over 50 MLR appearances, excelling in both loosehead and tighthead positions. With World Cup experience under his belt, Keith’s technical prowess and strength make him a vital force in the set piece. A mainstay for Canada since his 2016 debut, he has earned over 30 caps, including an appearance at the 2019 Rugby World Cup.
22
Kyle Ciquera
prop
🇺🇸
28
5’11"
274
Entering his seventh season with the Free Jacks, including the 2019 Cara Cup, Kyle Ciquera embodies the grit and tenacity of New England rugby. Widely regarded as one of MLR’s top scrummaging looseheads, his relentless playing style and deep connection to the region have made him a fan favorite.
Known as “The Eagle,” Ciquera holds a special place in Free Jacks history as player #22, debuting in the club’s inaugural MLR match. In 2024, he famously chopped off his signature mullet for charity—leaving fans wondering if the legendary locks will return in 2025.
94
Kaleb Geiger
prop
🇺🇸
29
6’1"
255
A former collegiate baseball player turned rugby enforcer, Kaleb Geiger has quickly made his mark in Major League Rugby. In 2024, he ranked third in the league for successful tackles per 80 minutes (17.7) while averaging an impressive 10.8 carries per game. Now a dominant presence in the Free Jacks’ front row, Geiger’s blend of power and mobility makes him a crucial asset. Originally from Colorado, he transitioned to rugby after excelling in football and baseball at Concordia University, Nebraska. Off the field, he enjoys hunting, fishing, and working on his family farm.
101
Malakai Hala-Ngatai
prop
🇳🇿
22
6’0"
270
A 6’0″, 270-pound powerhouse from New Zealand, Malakai Hala-Ngatai adds brute strength and technical skill to the Free Jacks’ front row. With experience at the Hurricanes U20s and Manawatu in New Zealand’s NPC, he made his MLR debut in 2024 and played a key role in New England’s championship-winning campaign. His performances have showcased his immense potential, making him a player to watch in 2025.
#
Jone Koroiduadua
prop
🇫🇯
25
5’10"
256
Fijian prop Jone Koroiduadua is a wrecking ball in the scrum and a menace in open play. Standing at 6’1” and 265 pounds, he brings international pedigree and raw athleticism to the Free Jacks’ forward pack. A product of Sigatoka, Fiji’s famed “Rugby Town,” Koroiduadua has featured in over 20 Super Rugby Pacific matches for the Fijian Drua and earned two caps for the Flying Fijians, including a spot in the 2023 Rugby World Cup. With experience in France’s Top 14 and even a stint with Fiji’s national rugby league team, his versatility and power make him a dangerous addition to New England’s front row.
#
Ivan Pula
prop
🇺🇸
25
6’1"
255
A 6’1″, 270-pound tighthead prop from Yelm, Washington, Ivan Pula is a rising force in New England’s front row. Drafted in 2023, he has gained invaluable experience through the Free Jacks’ Independents, USA Rugby Hawks, and Anthem Rugby Carolina. A former USA Selects representative, Pula is recognized for his immense physical potential and work ethic. A standout leader at Central Washington University, he even balanced rugby with earning a law degree—a testament to his discipline and drive.
66
Tevita Sole
prop
🇹🇴
26
5’9"
254
Capable of anchoring both sides of the scrum, Tevita Sole is a prop with serious explosiveness. After a loan spell with the Miami Sharks in 2024, he returned to play a pivotal role in the Free Jacks’ championship victory. Sole continued sharpening his craft with Mystic River, helping them secure an American Rugby Premiership title. With roots in New Zealand’s Bay of Plenty academy and international experience with Tonga’s U20s, his return bolsters the Free Jacks’ ambitions for another dominant season.
#
Kyle Steeves
prop
🇨🇦
24
6’1"
263
A 6’0″, 263-pound wrecking ball from Winnipeg, Kyle Steeves blends wrestling-honed strength with front-row finesse. A former Canadian national wrestling champion, Steeves quickly climbed the rugby ranks, earning his first international cap for Canada in 2022. In 2024, he made his mark with the Dallas Jackals, racking up 17 appearances and proving himself as a relentless ball carrier. Now, the up-and-coming tighthead is ready to bring his power game to New England.
53
Foster Dewitt
HOOKER
🇨🇦
29
6’1"
250
Canadian international Foster Dewitt has been a rock in the Free Jacks’ front row since 2022. A product of the University of British Columbia, Dewitt brings physicality and intelligence to the pack, traits that have been crucial to New England’s consecutive championships. At 6’0″ and 250 pounds, his scrummaging ability and work rate continue to make him an invaluable asset to the team.
109
Connal McInerney
Hooker
🇦🇺
30
5’10"
234
A seasoned professional with Super Rugby credentials, Connal McInerney brings a wealth of experience to the Free Jacks. A key contributor to the Brumbies’ 2020 Super Rugby AU title, he amassed over 50 Super Rugby caps, helping lead his squad to multiple playoff appearances. In 2021, his standout performances earned him a Wallabies call-up, where he made his test debut and scored a memorable try against Japan. His leadership and pedigree will add depth and firepower to New England’s forward pack.
81
Andrew Quattrin
hooker
🇨🇦
28
6'0"
252
A Canadian international with a relentless work ethic, Andrew Quattrin’s rugby journey began at Wilfrid Laurier University, where he became the first rugby player to win OUA MVP. He was a core member of Canada’s 2019 World Cup squad and made his test debut that same year. After four standout seasons with the Toronto Arrows, he became the inaugural recipient of the MLR Community Impact Award in 2022, underscoring his influence both on and off the pitch.
#
Kyle Baillie
lock
🇨🇦
33
6’6"
247
A battle-hardened second-rower from Prince Edward Island, Kyle Baillie played a vital role in the Free Jacks’ 2024 championship run. With 48 MLR appearances across NOLA, Toronto, DC, and New England, Baillie brings leadership and physicality to the squad. A veteran of Canada’s national team, he has played professionally in Australia, England, and the U.S. His trademark smile and relentless motor make him a force to be reckoned with in the pack.
106
Sam Caird
lock
🇦🇺
27
6’7"
260
A towering 6’7” lock, Sam Caird adds size, experience, and aerial prowess to the Free Jacks’ forward unit. With stints at the NSW Waratahs and Highlanders in Super Rugby, he has competed at the highest level, featuring in New Zealand’s NPC for over 50 matches. A former New Zealand U20 international, Caird brings tactical intelligence and leadership to New England’s set-piece, making him a crucial piece of the Free Jacks’ championship puzzle.
82
Conor Keys
lock
🇨🇦
29
6’6"
243
At 6’6″, Conor Keys is an imposing presence in the Free Jacks’ engine room. The Stittsville, Ontario native has earned over 30 caps for Canada and played a crucial role in New England’s success, logging over 1,100 minutes in 2023. A relentless force at the breakdown and in the air, Keys is a nightmare for opposing forwards—and, as fans hope, may go shirtless again this season.
1
Josh Larsen
lock
🇨🇦🇳🇿
31
6’4"
246
As club captain since 2020, Josh Larsen has been the backbone of the Free Jacks’ forward pack. The Canadian lock’s leadership, relentless work ethic, and dominant set-piece play have been instrumental in the team’s rise. A two-time MLR champion, Larsen leads by example, fostering a team-first culture that defines New England rugby. Fans can expect to see his steady presence throughout the 2025 season, guiding new and returning players as the Free Jacks set their sights on another title.
5
Jackson Thiebes
lock
🇺🇸
31
6’2"
245
At 6’5” and 245 pounds, Jackson Thiebes is an imposing force in the second row. After a standout 2021 season, where he was named the Free Jacks’ Breakthrough Player of the Year, Thiebes returned to the squad in 2024, helping drive the team to another championship. With eight impactful appearances in his comeback season, his physicality, energy, and experience will continue to bolster New England’s forward pack in 2025.
97
Piers Von Dadelszen
lock
🇨🇦🏴
25
6’4"
242
The reigning Rookie of the Year, Piers von Dadelszen is a rising star in the Free Jacks’ forward pack. Standing 6’4” and 242 pounds, his mobility, aerial prowess, and versatility across the second and back row make him a relentless competitor. In his debut season, he played in 17 matches, scoring two tries, securing 29 lineout takes, and stealing six opposition lineouts. An Oxford graduate with an engineering degree, von Dadelszen brings both skill and intellect to the Free Jacks’ championship aspirations.
#
Matt Carrion
backrow
🇺🇸
23
6’1"
230
A 6’0”, 223-pound standout from Life University, Matt Carrion brings a history of high-level performance to the Free Jacks. A four-year starter and American Rugby Premiership winner, Carrion’s tenacity and technical ability have made him a force at both the collegiate and junior international level. His discipline, competitiveness, and commitment to the game will be key assets for the Free Jacks in 2025.
40
Wian Conradie
backrow
🇳🇦
30
6’1"
232
One of MLR’s most feared tacklers, Wian Conradie was named the league’s Forward of the Year in 2023, cementing his status as a dominant force. Despite appearing in just seven games in 2024, he still ranked fifth in the league for dominant tackles with 16. Per 80 minutes, he placed second in dominant tackles (2.4) and 11th in total tackles (15). Known as “The Bus,” Conradie’s relentless defensive efforts and powerful ball-carrying have made him a fan favorite, and his return in 2025 will be pivotal for the Free Jacks’ title defense.
72
Ethan Fryer
backrow
🇺🇸🇨🇦
23
6’1"
220
At just 22 years old, Ethan Fryer embodies the Free Jacks’ commitment to player development. Rising from the Independents to a full contract and earning international caps with Rugby Canada in 2024, Fryer’s work rate, athleticism, and breakdown expertise make him a vital part of New England’s high-energy playing style. Expect him to be a key contributor in 2025.
107
Jeronimo Gomez Vara
backrow
🇺🇸
24
6’2"
232
A standout performer in the 2024 MLR season, Jeronimo Gomez Vara was named the league’s Forward of the Year after leading the Dallas Jackals to their first-ever playoff victory. At 6’2” and 232.5 pounds, Gomez Vara is a defensive powerhouse and attacking threat, racking up 128 tackles, eight turnovers, and 53 defenders beaten. With top-tier lineout skills and a dynamic playing style, he’s a major addition to the Free Jacks’ championship-winning squad.
35
Joe Johnston
backrow
🇺🇸🇳🇿
26
6’2"
225
A fan favorite and defensive workhorse, Joe Johnston—known as “The Mechanic”—has been a cornerstone of the Free Jacks since 2021. His unmatched tenacity and leadership have seen him play in 95% of the team’s matches, earning the 2021 Minuteman Award for his commitment on and off the field. With experience in New Zealand’s top competitions, Johnston’s physicality and tactical awareness make him a key figure in New England’s defensive structure.
#
Kaipono Kayoshi
backrow
🇺🇸
25
6’1"
225
Selected in the first round of the 2025 MLR Collegiate Draft, Kaipono Kayoshi is a rising star in the back row. At 6’1” and 225 pounds, the Saint Mary’s College captain led his team to an undefeated national championship season. With a reputation for fearless play and tactical intelligence, the former USA U23 select is ready to make his mark in MLR.
103
Jed Melvin
backrow
🇳🇿
24
6’0"
236
Joining midseason in 2024, Jed Melvin wasted no time making an impact. In just eight games, he scored four tries, carried for 324 meters, broke 16 tackles, and made 80 tackles at a 95% success rate. His hat-trick performance against Utah and MLR Championship MVP honors solidified his reputation as a clutch performer. Expect him to be a game-changer once again in 2025.
#
Emanuel Lai
SCRUMHalf
🇺🇸
22
5’8"
172
A third-round pick in the 2024 MLR Draft, Emanuel Lai is a crafty scrum-half from Old Greenwich, Connecticut. Standing at 5’8” and 170 pounds, the Santa Clara University alum has impressed in preseason with his relentless energy and quick decision-making. A New England native, Lai is eager to showcase his talent on the professional stage.
105
Oscar Lennon
scrumhalf
🏴🇺🇸
25
5’9"
185
Welsh-born scrum-half Oscar Lennon joined the Free Jacks from the Bristol Bears in 2024 and made an immediate impact. Arriving late in the season as an injury replacement, Lennon started in both the Eastern Conference Final and MLR Championship, proving his composure and skill under pressure. With experience training alongside legends like Semi Radradra, Lennon is poised to be a key playmaker in 2025.
95
Cam Nordli-Kelemeti
SCRUMHalf
🇫🇯🏴
25
5’10"
191
Born in Fiji and developed in England, Cam Nordli-Kelemeti made a strong impression in his first Free Jacks season, featuring in 14 matches during the team’s championship run. A dynamic scrum-half with Premiership experience from Newcastle Falcons and Jersey Reds, Cam’s ability to dictate play and break defenses will be a major asset in 2025.
9
john poland
scrumhalf
🇮🇪
28
5’6"
172
Since 2020, John Poland has been a linchpin in the Free Jacks’ backline. A tactically sharp and technically skilled scrum-half, Poland has made over 50 appearances in the New England jersey. After a season-ending injury in 2024, he’s set to return in 2025, bringing leadership and experience as the Free Jacks chase another championship.
#
Harrison Boyle
Flyhalf
🇳🇿🇺🇸
25
6’5"
210
At 6’5” and 209 pounds, Harrison Boyle is a commanding presence at fly-half. With a strong tactical kicking game and sharp decision-making, he has been a key orchestrator of the Free Jacks’ attack. Off the field, he’s an avid surfer and mentor to young athletes in the community.
#
Faletoi Peni
Flyhalf
🇳🇿
26
5’8"
235
A two-time Auckland Club Rugby Player of the Year, Faletoi Peni is a game-changing talent at fly-half and inside center. His breakout 2024 season in New Zealand’s NPC earned him Rookie of the Year honors. With an elite playmaking ability and composure under pressure, Peni brings a unique skill set to the Free Jacks in 2025.
78
Jayson Potroz
flyhalf
🇺🇸
33
6’0"
188
Jayson Potroz has been the driving force behind the Free Jacks’ back-to-back championships. The 2023 MLR MVP and two-time scoring leader is a dynamic fly-half with an uncanny ability to control the attack and break defenses. A proven winner, Potroz’s leadership and playmaking will once again be central to New England’s success in 2025.
85
Ben Lesage
Center
🇨🇦
29
6’0"
210
A rock-solid presence in the Free Jacks’ midfield since joining ahead of the 2023 season, Ben Lesage is a defensive leader known for his relentless work rate. The Canadian international has been a mainstay for Rugby Canada since his debut in 2016, bringing invaluable experience to New England’s back-to-back championship runs.
In 2024, his consistency and selflessness earned him the Free Jacks’ prestigious Minuteman Award, given to the player who best embodies the team-first mentality and leadership through action. Off the field, Lesage has been a driving force in community outreach, spearheading initiatives such as the Free Jacks Sock Drop, food deliveries for veterans, an Inmate Book Club, and Mixed Abilities Rugby coaching with the Boys & Girls Club of Dorchester. His impact was recognized on a league-wide scale when he received the 2024 Major League Rugby S. Marcus Calloway Community Impact Award.
57
Le Roux Malan
center
🇳🇦
26
6’3"
215
A playmaker for the big moments, Le Roux Malan is etched in Free Jacks history as the only player to score tries in both the 2023 and 2024 MLR Championship matches. The Namibia-born center has become a fan favorite with his explosive style, highlight-reel plays, and ability to rise to the occasion.
After a heartbreaking, World Cup-ending injury while playing for Namibia against the All Blacks, Malan battled back to peak form in the latter half of the 2024 season, making an immediate impact and helping propel the Free Jacks to another title.
70
Isaac Olson
center
🇨🇦
25
6’3"
227
A dynamic back capable of slotting in at center or wing, Isaac Olson has been a key contributor since joining the Free Jacks in 2022. The Canadian international made his test debut against Belgium in 2021 and previously honed his craft with Canada’s U20s and at Pacific Pride Academy. With his versatility and attacking prowess, Olson continues to be an essential piece of New England’s backline.
#
Jack Reeves
center
🏴🇺🇸
24
5’11"
209
Returning to the Free Jacks after a standout campaign in the English Premiership, Jack Reeves brings agility, defensive solidity, and attacking flair to New England’s midfield. The Gloucester Rugby Academy product first made his mark with the Free Jacks in 2022 before heading back to Gloucester, where he amassed 30 first-team appearances.
Reeves, who has represented England at U18 and U20 levels, is known for his powerful ball carrying and intelligent playmaking—a skillset that makes him a dangerous threat in the Free Jacks’ high-tempo attack.
67
Wayne van der Bank
center
🇿🇦
28
5’11"
194
Wayne van der Bank’s 2024 season will be remembered as one of the greatest in MLR history. The Pretoria-born center swept the league’s top honors—MLR Player of the Year, Players’ Player of the Year, and Fans’ Player of the Year—after a dominant campaign that included 10 tries, 187 tackles, and 1,353 meters gained. His ability to break tackles was unparalleled, leading the league in defenders beaten (126) while steering the Free Jacks to back-to-back championships.
Van der Bank’s chemistry with teammates like Jayson Potroz and Le Roux Malan made the Free Jacks’ attack one of the most lethal in the league. A fan favorite and team leader, he continues to be one of the most exciting players to watch.
59
Paula Balekana
wing
🇫🇯
32
5’10"
210
A game-breaker on the wing, Paula Balekana is a nightmare for defenders. The Suva-born speedster and 2023 MLR top try-scorer has been a consistent offensive force since joining the Free Jacks in 2022, racking up over 100 points and delivering in clutch moments. Whether finishing off sweeping team moves or creating magic on his own, Balekana’s finishing ability will remain a key weapon in the Free Jacks’ arsenal.
102
Killian Coghlan
wing
🇺🇸
25
6’1"
213
A bruising back-row forward, Irish-born Killian Coghlan brings relentless physicality to the Free Jacks’ pack. Known for his dominant tackling and breakdown presence, he has experience playing both in Ireland and North America, making him a valuable addition to the squad. Off the pitch, he enjoys playing guitar and has a strong passion for strength and conditioning.
110
Josiah Morra
wing
🇨🇦
26
5’11"
207
One of Canada’s most electrifying backs, Josiah Morra is renowned for his aerial skills and finishing ability. A key figure in Canada’s sevens program since debuting at 18, he played a crucial role in winning silver at the 2019 Pan American Games and led Canada to its first World Series victory in Singapore that same year.
In 2023, Morra topped Canada 7s’ try-scoring charts before making his test debut for the national 15s team against the Netherlands in 2022. At 5’11” and 207 lbs, his agility and power make him a game-changing presence.
#
Brock Webster
wing
🇨🇦
24
5’11"
180
A lightning-fast winger from Uxbridge, Ontario, Brock Webster is a rising star in Canadian rugby. Since making his international debut in 2021, Webster has excelled on the World Rugby Sevens Series circuit, showcasing his versatility and flair.
Named Rugby Canada’s Young Player of the Year in 2018, he was Canada’s top point-scorer at the 2022 Sevens Rugby World Cup. His ability to thrive in high-pressure environments makes him a dangerous attacking weapon for the Free Jacks.
Originally from Colorado, Kaleb transitioned to rugby after excelling in both football and baseball at Concordia University, Nebraska.
Now an imposing prop for the Free Jacks, he is known for his scrummaging strength and physicality in open play. His ability to adapt and thrive in rugby has been a testament to his dedication and natural talent. When he’s not on the field, Kaleb enjoys hunting, fishing, and working on his family farm.
108
Simon-Peter Toleafoa
fullback
🇼🇸
27
6’0"
199
A versatile back capable of playing fullback, wing, and flyhalf, Simon-Peter Toleafoa is one of the most exciting attacking talents in the game. Originally from Māngere, Auckland, he was a standout for the championship-winning Manukau Rovers before enjoying a breakout 2024 NPC season with Counties Manukau Steelers. His dynamic running game placed him in the top 5% of players for ball carries, defenders beaten, and line breaks.
Toleafoa has also represented Manu Samoa U20s, bringing international experience and a deep cultural pride to the Free Jacks. With his ability to adapt under pressure, he is set to be a key figure in the squad’s backline.
PLAYER DEBUT
Jone Koroiduadua
Wearing: #3
Position: Prop
Age: 25
Height: 5’11”
Weight: 256lbs
50 MLR CAPS
Faletoi Peni
Wearing: #12
Position: Center
Age: 26
Height: 5‘8″
Weight: 247lbs
*Please be aware that NBC Sports Boston will be showing the Free Jacks match on a tape delay this weekend. The match will be shown at 5pm on Sunday March 9th.
2025 STANDINGS
FREE JACKS BLOG: ROUND 1 ARTICLES
RUGBY 101
Rugby is a full-contact, free flowing sport. The game is made up of two 40-minute halves. A team wins by moving forward and scoring more points than the other team. Watch the video and check out the terms below.
There are 15 players on the pitch; 8 forwards and 7 backs. The number on the back of your jersey indicates your position.
- Tight head prop
- Hooker
- Loose head prop
- Second row
- Second row
- Blind side flanker
- Open side flanker
- Number 8
- Scrum-Half
- Fly-Half
- Left Wing
- Inside Center
- Outside Center
- Right Wing
- Full Back
MOVE FORWARD PASS BACK
In order to make your way down the field, the ball must be passed either sideways or backwards. The ball can only move forward if kicked or carried by a player.
NO PADS?!
Unlike American football, rugby players do not wear pads. This actually makes the game safer as it encourages proper tackle technique with arms and shoulders and not heads. Any contact to the head will be penalized with either a penalty, yellow or red card.
HOW TO SCORE POINTS
Players score by either physically touching the ball down in the “Try zone”, or scoring a penalty kick off of the other team’s infringement.
TRY
The main objective of the game; to touch the ball down in the opponent’s end-zone (Try-zone) area for a score worth 5 points. The ball must be touched down to the ground under control for the score to count!
CONVERSION
After scoring a try, a team will kick for an additional 2-points from the line that the try was touched down.
SCRUM
Used to restart play after a technical infringement. All 8 forwards join to compete for the ball.
LINEOUT
Used to restart play after the ball goes out of bounds. Forwards assemble in a straight line across from each other, where one team’s Hooker throws the ball down the middle. Each team uses various formations to lift players and compete for the ball.
KNOCK-ON
An infringement when a player loses, drops, or knocks the ball forward from their hands, resulting in a scrum to the other team.