Rugby Playoffs Set for Thrilling Eastern Conference Showdown

The 2025 Major League Rugby Playoffs are poised to ignite, promising intense competition as teams vie for the championship. The Eastern Conference Semifinals kick off this weekend, with matches streaming on ESPN+, showcasing the best of the sport.

Chicago Hounds vs. Old Glory DC: A Rematch in the Midwest

The Chicago Hounds will face Old Glory DC in a high-stakes Eastern Conference Semifinal clash. The two teams are separated by a mere eight points at the end of the regular season. Chicago, finishing second with an 11-5 record, hosts DC, who secured third place with eight wins and eight losses.

The Hounds are returning to postseason rugby, one year after their defeat by the New England Free Jacks. Under the guidance of Chris Latham, Chicago has doubled down on last season’s success to earn a home Semifinal.

“There’s a bit of excitement within the team right now,” shared Mason Flesch, Chicago’s back-row.

“A big mantra that we’ve adopted is the ‘Monsters of Midway’. That gets us into the headspace to dominate and know that when people come to play us in Chicago, they’re going to the well over and over if they want to beat us.”

—Mason Flesch

When the teams met in Chicago during the regular season, the Hounds triumphed. Chris Hilsenbeck scored 13 points and Maclean Jones secured a brace of tries. However, Perry Humphreys’s hat-trick and Jason Robertson’s successful kicks proved DC’s ability.

Old Glory DC’s Determination

Simon Cross’s DC team has impressed during the 2025 season, registering a double over the New England Free Jacks. They also secured victories against the Seattle Seawolves and Utah Warriors.

“There is definitely a buzz around the locker room this week,” stated Connor Buckley, Old Glory’s scrum-half.

“We’ve got a locker room full of guys who are hungry to bring a title to DC. We’re very excited for this weekend.”

—Connor Buckley

Last season, DC was defeated by New England in their Conference Semifinal. This motivated the team to return with renewed intensity. The team is looking forward to returning to the Conference Final for the first time in two years.

New England Free Jacks Aim for a Three-Peat

The New England Free Jacks will face the Miami Sharks in their Semifinal. This marks New England’s fourth consecutive postseason appearance. Meanwhile, it’s Miami’s first time in the final eight.

The Sharks have demonstrated resilience in the regular season. They have defeated the Houston SaberCats, Old Glory DC, and New England. For the Sharks in their second MLR season, they’ve blended their South American heritage with local talent.

Ricky Rose, the team’s first-ever Draft pick, has witnessed the team’s growth firsthand. He was selected first overall in the 2023 MLR Collegiate Draft. According to recent data, the average attendance at MLR matches has increased by 15% since 2023 (Major League Rugby).

“There were many lessons learned in our inaugural season, but we are fast learners. We’ve improved tenfold in many areas of the game and in our maturity. We’ve defined our core tenets and have grown upwards from our roots.

—Ricky Rose

Rose is confident his team will continue with the strategies that have brought them to the Conference Semifinals.

The Free Jacks seek their third consecutive title in Ryan Martin’s first season as head coach. The team seeks to further their legacy.

“We’ve got a good, positive environment heading into the weekend,” stated Ben LeSage, New England’s center.

“Making the Eastern Conference Final would be another huge accomplishment, especially in a season where there’s so much parity between all teams. It gives our fans another chance to cheer us on at home. Our hopes are to play three Playoff games.”

—Ben LeSage

LeSage emphasizes his team’s motivation, aiming to lift the Shield on June 28.

As the playoffs progress, the anticipation builds for the ultimate championship showdown. The teams are ready for the games.