California born flanker Tevita Mapa played in Major League Rugby during the 2026 season. He represented the New England Free Jacks for his entire MLR career.

Born in Oakland, CA and raised in New Zealand with Tongan heritage, Tevita Mapa first started playing rugby in Australia with the Melbourne Rebels youth sides before playing with the Queensland Reds junior sides for both 15s and 7s. He played for the St. Joseph’s Nudgee College 1st XV outside of Brisbane and following his graduation he played with the University of Queensland Elite Mens 7s, also making his Premier Grade debut with Brothers in 2023. Later that year he enrolled at Life University, helping the Running Eagles to the 2023 ARP title. He graduated from Life U in 2025 and declared for the 2025 MLR Draft where he was selected with the first pick of the 2nd Round, 10th Overall, by the New England Free Jacks.

On 15th December 2025, the New England Free Jacks announced the signing of Tevita Mapa for their 2026 title defence.

Achievements

• 2025 MLR Draftee: 2nd Round (10th Overall) – New England Free Jacks

NARDB Player #1,646