Paula Balekana Named 2025 SportsBreaks MLR Player of the Year

A Fijian Force, a Free Jack Phenomenon, the League’s Best

The New England Free Jacks are proud to celebrate one of their own, as explosive winger Paula Balekana has officially been named the 2025 Major League Rugby Player of the Year in his 4th season at the club. The honor caps off another sensational season for the Fijian flyer, whose dazzling runs, bone-rattling defense, and relentless work rate helped power the Free Jacks to another deep post-season run.

A Season of Impact and Fireworks

Balekana’s 2025 season was a masterclass in modern wing play. Equal parts speed, power, and finesse, Paula equalled his own try scoring record set in 2023, finding the try line 15 times over the course of the year, the most of any player this season—cementing his place as one of the league’s most feared finishers. But his impact extended far beyond the scoreboard.

• 1213 meters made (6th in MLR)
• 17 linebreaks (2nd in MLR)
• 118 ball carries 
• 70 tackles made (12 dominant at 17%)

These stats tell the story of a complete player—one who thrives on both sides of the ball and doesn’t shy away from the dirty work. From attacking line breaks to critical defensive stands, Balekana’s fingerprints were all over the Free Jacks’ campaign.

His excellence was recognized weekly, with Balekana earning MLR Team of the Week honors five times (Rounds 8, 10, 12, 13, and 16) and being named Player of the Week twice (Rounds 8 and 10).

A Career Spanning Continents

Born and raised in Suva, Fiji, Paula sharpened his skills at Kelston Boys’ High School before launching a professional career that took him across the rugby world.

• Gordon Highlanders (2016–17) – Shute Shield, Australia
• Sydney Rays (2017) – National Rugby Championship, Australia
• Zebre Parma (2018–20) – United Rugby Championship, Italy
• Houston SaberCats (2021) – MLR debut
• New England Free Jacks (2022–present)
• Hawke’s Bay (2023) – NPC, New Zealand

Since joining the Free Jacks in 2022, Balekana has become a fan favorite in Quincy. He surpassed 100-point and 50 appearance milestones for the club this season and continues to embody the spirit of Free Jacks rugby: bold, unyielding, and full of joy.

“Since pulling on the Free Jacks jersey in 2022, Paula has firmly established himself as Major League Rugby’s premier finisher,” said Free Jacks General Manager, Tom Kindley. “This season, his impact was immense—he consistently came up with game-changing moments on both sides of the ball, drawing on his experience and dogged drive to succeed. Off the field, Paula and his wife Setaita welcomed their second child, Leilani, prior to the season. We’ve seen firsthand how hard they’ve worked, and we’re thrilled to see that dedication recognized.”

Legacy Sealed, Future Still Bright

Winning the league’s top individual award is a testament to both Balekana’s brilliance and his tireless commitment to his craft. But for those who’ve seen him train, play, and inspire teammates, the accolade comes as no surprise. At 32-years of age, Balekana is showing no signs of slowing down.

Free Jacks fans will remember the diving tries, sideline bursts, and match-turning tackles—but also the humility and heart that make Paula Balekana a leader on and off the field.

As we celebrate this historic milestone, one thing is clear: the best may be yet to come.

Congratulations, Paula, Player of the Year, and forever a Free Jack.