This week’s signing spree from the New England Free Jacks continues with confirmation that Matt Wirken has joined from Rugby United New York. A veteran of three Major League Rugby campaigns, the 31-year-old lock moves to his third MLR team having initially played for the NOLA Gold.
At 6’7″ (2.01m) and 270lbs (123kg) Wirken is one of the largest players in the competition. After starting five games for the Gold in 2018 the Kansas City native switched to New York where he featured in a dozen games in two seasons. He started in three of five matches in 2020.
New England announced the return of outside back Danny Collins earlier this week and the addition of USA international forward Vili Toluta’u from the Seattle Seawolves. More signings are expected before the season begins on March 20. The club is set to confirm their departures list next week.