From Grassroots to MLR: Zack Jessell on His Journey and the Evolution of U.S. Rugby

In this episode of the A&D Podcast, hosts Austin and Dietrich are joined by Zack Jessell, a former Major League Rugby player with one of the more extensive and well-rounded résumés in American rugby. Zack takes listeners through his full journey in the sport, detailing how he got started, the pathways that led him to the professional level, and what it truly meant to compete in MLR during a formative period for the league and the game in the United States.

Throughout the conversation, Zack shares personal stories and memories from his career, including the coaches who shaped his development, the teammates he built lifelong bonds with, and the opponents who pushed him to elevate his game. He offers a firsthand look at the realities of being a professional rugby player in the U.S.—the sacrifices, the challenges, and the moments that made it all worthwhile. The hosts also dive into Zack’s personal goals and ambitions during his playing days, exploring what he hoped to accomplish not only for himself, but for American rugby as a whole.

The discussion then shifts to the evolution of the sport throughout Zack’s career. He reflects on how the structure, professionalism, and visibility of rugby in the United States have changed over the years, and shares his perspective on where the game still needs to grow. Zack closes by laying out his vision for the future of rugby in America and what he hopes the next generation of players, fans, and leaders can build upon.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about U.S. rugby and the stories behind its growth. Be sure to tune in to this and future episodes of the A&D Podcast, and follow the show on Instagram and TikTok to stay up to date with new releases, clips, and ongoing conversations around rugby in the United States and beyond.

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