animal74

Halfway There
A look back and forward at the midway point of Harry Callahan's VHL career
 
It's been a fun and enjoyable journey in the VHL so far as I begin my fourth season in the big league, and my seventh overall. I've now been a part of the VHL for more than a year (started in March of 2023), and I only feel my joy for the league growing.
 
Harry Callahan joined the Toronto Legion in S91, and had both the blessing and the curse of winning a Continental Cup in his first season. It was such a blessing to win right off the hop because there are players who aren't lucky or fortunate enough to win a Cup over their entire career, and Callahan got to experience that as a rookie pitching in on an established contender. Winning that Cup was a dream, but it also came with the curse of trying to chase that dream without realization over the following two seasons. It was a mixed bag of success in S92 and S93, with S92 seeing a weaker regular season and stronger postseason, and S93 seeing a fairly dominant regular season followed by a colossal disappointment of a postseason. Callahan has grown from a smaller support contributor in his rookie season to a solid member of the core, one who held a slight edge to lead the team in scoring in S93.
 
Entering this upcoming season, the Legion are still in position to be a team that can compete for a title. Callahan has had the good fortune of becoming a leader in the Legion locker room, having worn an 'A' for the past two seasons. The hope over the final four seasons of his career is to continue to be a leader in the room that is looked at to set an example for the team, as well as attempt to reach the summit of the VHL again and be a multi-Cup winning Champion before retirement. Continuing to grow in the statistics department is a priority for Callahan as well, having made the jump to the top 10 in the VHL in points last season. Entering what will be a prime season for Callahan, he has designs on challenging for the league lead in points this season.
 
Off the ice, Callahan has entered the management side of the game. Following a Founder's Cup title as an Assistant GM for the Saskatoon Wild last season, Callahan will make the move to become a player and Assistant General Manager for the Toronto Legion this season in hopes of helping in all ways possible to continue to improve the Legion organization.

Over the many seasons of the VHL’s existence, there have been many goaltenders who have made an impact and left us with many enjoyable memories. For many Nighthawks fans, Ash Sparks has been 1 such goalie to the Malmo franchise but this wasn’t always the case. 
 
[S85] VHLM Drafted 15th Overall, 2nd Round by Halifax 21st
[S86] VHLE Drafted 34th Overall, 5th Round by Geneva Rush
[S86] VHL Drafted 6th Overall, 1st Round by Seattle Bears
 
 
VHLM Stats
[S84] Houston Bulls - [S85] Halifax 21st
 
Reg Season GP: 74
W/L/OTL: 40 - 31 - 3
Save%: 0.913
GAA: 2.53
Shutouts: 3
 
Playoff GP: 6
W/L/OTL: 1 - 3 - 2
Save%: 0.889
GAA: 3.98
Shutouts: 0
 
Awards: None
 
S84 Houston Bulls - Entry Season (pre-draft eligibility)
The Canadian born netminder played his first game back in S84 for the Houston Bulls prior to his draft eligibility. He managed to play in 12 regular season games, sporting a 9-2-1 winning record with a .900 save% and a 2.24 GAA while in the back-up role. He also got a taste of playoff action seeing 2 games when starting goalie “-“ was injured. He managed to win 1 game but sadly fell short in his 2nd appearance, losing that elimination game in OT. A bitter end and a lot to go through as a rookie in the VHLM, but this upset would only forge him in fire just before the upcoming draft.
 
S85: Halifax 21st- VHLM Draft Eligible
The S85 draft was a historic event, mostly remembered being the class this an elite group of goaltenders known as “The Heavenly 7”. These 7 goalies were almost close to the cap and showed extreme promise, meaning almost every team would be fortunate enough to have a top goalie for the season. 1 of these “Heavenly 7” goaltenders was none other than Ash Sparks, almost being overlooked in comparison to his peers when he was drafted 7th among them as the 15th overall pick in the 2nd round. Despite that on top of being drafted to a “weaker” team, Ash Sparks had a fantastic season in which he posted great numbers and delivered many impressive performances. He ended the season with a 0.914 save%, a 2.58 GAA, a respectable 4 shutouts, and a record of 31-29-2 during 62 games played. Sparks made it into the playoffs for a 2nd time in a row but yet again he did not find any post-season success. The Halifax 21st were swept in 4, leaving Sparks with an abysmal 0-3-1 record and a bitter end to his time in the VHLM.
 
VHLE Stats
[S86] Geneva Rush
 
Reg Season GP: 37
W/L/OTL: 6 - 28 - 1
Save%: 0.929
GAA: 3.73
Shutouts: 1
 
Awards: 0
 
S86: Geneva Rush - VHL/E Draft Eligible
This season was a rollercoaster for Ash Sparks due to the VHL and the VHLE draft. Being drafted last among the “Heavenly 7” in the VHLE during the 5th round as the 34th overall pick. This meant his time playing in the VHLE was going to be spent as a 1-b goalie behind fellow “Heavenly 7” alumni, Joel Castle, who was drafted earlier by the Geneva Rush in the same draft. Even though the team had no real players on a lacklustre roster, this strong goalie tandem proved to be an elite combination. Sparks showed how underrated he was and the lack of scouting done on him quickly changed. He was then drafted by the Seattle Bears 6th Overall in the 1st round for the VHL draft, higher than all the other “Heavenly 7” goalies. This would place a lot of pressure on him but also give him the nod that he is indeed 1 of the top goalies of his draft class.
 
VHL Stats (ongoing)
[S87-88] Seattle Bears - [S89-S91*] Malmo Nighthawks (Currently active on the S92 Malmo Nighthawks)
 
Reg Season GP: 205
W/L/OTL: 101 - 78 - 22
Save%: 0.924
GAA: 2.55
Shutouts: 15
 
Playoff GP: 5
W/L/OTL: 2 - 2 - 1
Save%: 0.922
GAA: 2.91
Shutouts: 0
 
Awards: None
 
S87-88: Seattle Bears
The first season Ash Sparks entered the big leagues, was by far his worst season to date. The nerves of jumping up into his role in the VHL, mixed with a few traumatic events leading up to it during the off-season, was a recipe for a disastrous entry season for the upcoming netminder. Sparks made 10 appearances during S87 and recorded some poor numbers in those few games. His save% was an 0.889 and he had a 3.51 GAA with a losing record of 4-5-0, which really was not the expect start of such a high draft pick.
The following season faired a little better, but not good enough to give any confidence to his GM for playing him more- leaving him seeing the crease only 8 games during his 2nd season. Compared to the previous season, he did much better with a 0.916 save%, a 2.36 GAA, a winning record of 5-3-0, and also got a single shutout for his efforts in goal. Hoping this improvement would give him a chance to make a run at being Seattle’s starter for S89, the GM had already given up on him. The former 6th Overall pick was on the edge of being considered a bust, so it was time for Seattle to move on and recoup what they could for Sparks during the off-season. This nearly made Sparks feel defeated enough to outright retire, but instead he decided to give Malmo a chance and proceed onwards to join his new team. The following trade ensued;
 
Malmo receives:
Ash Sparks - G
S89 SEA 4th
S90 SEA 3rd
S91 SEA 2nd
S91 SEA 4th
 
Seattle receives:
Ilya Bryzgalov - G
Rex Wolffe Gregor - D
 
S89-present: Malmo Nighthawks
Ash Sparks was longer a member of the organization that drafted him, but his new teammates would welcome him with open arms. His first season as a Nighthawk was his best season in his career to date, playing as if he had something to prove. Over the course of 67 total appearances, he managed a 30-26-8 record which would give a new light and sense of confidence to the young Nighthawks team who had been a struggling franchise for some time. What made this season so impressive was that not only was he playing in his first season on a new team, becoming their full time starter, he had some ridiculously good numbers too! Sparks was top 2 in the league with a 0.931 save%, top 3 in the league with a 2.49 GAA, and led the league comfortably in shutouts with 9 which doubled the next closest goalie. Sparks would become the top goalie for season 89 but even with incredible stats despite not being on a strong team, he would fail to receive a single vote towards any of the awards he was nominated for. This enraged and upset many but sadly in the end, Sparks got screwed over after a godly season.
Ash Sparks took a step back the following season due to some injury resulting in only 56 appearances in net for S90. He still managed a 24-23-9 record and had a 2.48 GAA with a .921%, but he only had 2 shutouts this time around. 
Last season (S91) was a rollercoaster for Sparks. He had a 3-4-1 record, a 0.880 save%, and a GAA that was over 4.50 to start the season. He then proceeded to go on a 10 game winning streak, followed by 2 overtime losses, and then another 10 game winning streak- going absolutely nuts in goal with a 23-4-3 record! As the season started to normalize, Malmo was still near the top of the league in points and would hang on till the end- finally make it to the playoffs. Ash Sparks ended the regular season with a winning record of 38-21-5, a solid 0.923 save%, a decent 2.56 GAA, and 3 more shutouts to his name. While Malmo would give it their best efforts, they came up short in the wildcard round to the Helsinki Titans who would end up losing to the Toronto Legion in the finals. A bittersweet end for S91 but Sparks would end up with a 2-2-1 record in 5 playoff games, earning a 0.922 save% and a 2.91 GAA. 
As this is being written during the off-season before S92, only time will tell how Ash Sparks will do this season. He may play till the very end, so a final update for his remaining seasons will resume on another article. To be continued..
 
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Inevitable, really. You've been a huge asset to the Legion on and off the ice since you came on aboard, @dstevensonjr. Congrats on a well-deserved appointment!

Inevitable, really. You've been a huge asset to the Legion on and off the ice since you came on aboard, @dstevensonjr. Congrats on a well-deserved appointment!

S94 Payouts
@Hogan-2
@jacobcarson877-2
@leandrofg-2
@Grape-2
@UghSike-2
@animal74-2
@Triller-2
@Enorama-2
@Royski-1
@Mysterious_Fish-1
@MubbleFubbles-2

I am grateful for this opportunity to continue working in Toronto!
 
Thank you to @Moon for allowing me the chance to prove myself in the VHL, as well as @animal74 and @v.2  for helping get to this point. All of you have been in this league far longer than I have, and it's great to have your knowledge to learn from. I also want to thank @Dadam30 for the training in Saskatoon last season, that experience was invaluable.
 
Now, let's all go win another Cup together!

The Toronto Legion are making changes not only with the roster but with the AGM spot aswell.

I would like to thank @animal74 & @v.2  for everything they have done as "AGM's" we have been super successful and look forward to some great seasons ahead. 

I have decided to go back to 1 official AGM and this person has been by far one of the smartest and most dedicated people I have met in the VHL. They have been in the "Front Office" in Toronto helping out and giving us their opinions on basically everything.
 

Three things are guaranteed in life: death, taxes, and Seattle hoisting the Continental Cup! How @Banackock keeps doing this will be the discussion among scholars for generations to come. 😜 Congrats Bearz!! Great to see guys like @Ricer13 and @Jubis get a Cup.
 
London, I honestly thought you had it. Teno @aimkin is a legend.
 
Great Finals for both teams!

Three things are guaranteed in life: death, taxes, and Seattle hoisting the Continental Cup! How @Banackock keeps doing this will be the discussion among scholars for generations to come. 😜 Congrats Bearz!! Great to see guys like @Ricer13 and @Jubis get a Cup.
 
London, I honestly thought you had it. Teno @aimkin is a legend.
 
Great Finals for both teams!

Three things are guaranteed in life: death, taxes, and Seattle hoisting the Continental Cup! How @Banackock keeps doing this will be the discussion among scholars for generations to come. 😜 Congrats Bearz!! Great to see guys like @Ricer13 and @Jubis get a Cup.
 
London, I honestly thought you had it. Teno @aimkin is a legend.
 
Great Finals for both teams!

Three things are guaranteed in life: death, taxes, and Seattle hoisting the Continental Cup! How @Banackock keeps doing this will be the discussion among scholars for generations to come. 😜 Congrats Bearz!! Great to see guys like @Ricer13 and @Jubis get a Cup.
 
London, I honestly thought you had it. Teno @aimkin is a legend.
 
Great Finals for both teams!

Three things are guaranteed in life: death, taxes, and Seattle hoisting the Continental Cup! How @Banackock keeps doing this will be the discussion among scholars for generations to come. 😜 Congrats Bearz!! Great to see guys like @Ricer13 and @Jubis get a Cup.
 
London, I honestly thought you had it. Teno @aimkin is a legend.
 
Great Finals for both teams!

Bloody Wann Kerrse.
 
gg Seattle 

Wow, 8th Continental Cup.. 13th trip to the finals.. on a season where we initially started off with low odds and predictions heavily against us. What is kind of neat about this victory is that on May 16th, it will be my 8th year anniversary as Seattle Bears GM - so that is kind of cool. 
 
London, Great series. For whatever reason, I never expect you to get all the way. You, with Teno @aimkin, are an absolute force to be reckoned with. Every sim I was SO nervous it was insane. I know I've been nervous as all hell in the past too, but wow, you had me freaking out the entire time. 
 
DA BEARZ, we did it once again! What a crazy fucking season. Landing the biggest fish @Greg_Di - getting them their 1st 100 point season along with Dixon and Targaryen, making massive huge trades and beating all the odds. You guys were bumping in the LR, earning your TPE and are a huge reason why we're here. HUGE SHOUTOUT to @Mongoose87 who allowed us to make the trade for Rask and take a back seat when we all know, especially as a goalie, it's never easy to do.  Neat we landed @Ricer13 his first ever cup in the league! I could write a short book here guys on how happy and excited I am to win this thing with you all... CONGRATS CHAMPIONS!  Thank you to every single one of you for everything you've done to get us to this point. All your efforts, time and loyalty to the team are so deeply appreciated. 
 
@Banackock @zepheter @ROOKIE745 @Berocka  @Greg_Di  @JB123 @sadie @Bigb33 @CODENAMEJIMMY @Mongoose87 @DustyMclaren @Brent @jhatty8  @Victor @Chillybro @Nathan_8 @Jubis @Ricer13 @Baozi

Have Your Say: VHL Continental Cup Finals
 
Here we are back for round two of your ability to impact the voting and have a say about some of the topics going around the league at the moment. Last time out we took a look at Goaltending and Today with the dropping of the Wind of Change article talking about the league future Era of goaltending and an End of Era of goaltending so let look at what you had to say about the Goaltenders:
 
 
1. Who is the best starting goaltender in the VHL? (Multiple choice)

At least every single goaltender got a vote but it was interesting to see those two goaltenders, both of whom I think are likely HOF bound topped the poll. One a clear Playoff goaltender and will likely go down as one of the best in the post season; not to mention he is in the finals again. The other lead the dominate HC Davos Dynamo era and is highly decorated due to his dominance. A few of the votes really surprised me as I think a lot miss the strong goaltending that Henry Tucker Jr @NSG provided Riga Reign and D.C. Dragons over the length of his career and Matt Murdock @Acydburn dominating performance night in and night out for the Prague Phantoms holding a ton of the franchise records and clearly a franchise goaltender; should see his jersey retired sooner rather than later in Prague. I wasn`t that surprised and actually pleasantly surprised that Joel Castle @animal74 finished third as I think he also has a case for the HOF but I think he will fall just short.
 
 
2. If your team was heading into a game 7 winner takes all situation, who would you want as your Starting goaltender?

Same three topped this question but also not hugely surprise that 48% of the vote went with the known game stealing, god of the playoff performance Jesse Teno @aimkin. Lachlan Summers @kirbithan a distant second with Joel Castle @animal74 only a single vote behind. The biggest surprise was Fuukka Rask @Jubis receive zero votes considering his past two season of playoff performance with Helsinki Titans and leading them to an unexpected Continental Cup Final. Rask once again has a chance to change everyone opinion as he has taken the Seattle Bears into the finals against the Teno!!
 
 
3. Who is the Best young Goaltender in the VHL at the moment?

This rather feels like recency bias with 61% of the vote heading towards the young Rookie of the year contending 36W @rory of the New York Americans or is it? Fast forward to the end of this season and 36W @rory finished 8th in Wins, 4th in Save% and 4th in GAA so clearly is a top 5 goaltender in this league at the moment. Only one goaltender didn`t receive any votes and again I think this was down to recency bias as at the time I asked these question Giorgiy Costanzov @Mongoose87 was just entering his first full season in the VHL and was thrown to Wolves to say as he was also starting for Seattle Bears; at the time a fringe playoff team. Well, Fast forward and Costanzov was replaced by Fukka Rask @Jubis at the trade deadline; rather suggesting a lack of faith in the young goaltender by his own management. Will he bounce back? Sure but he might need to wait another season to prove himself as starting goaltender in the league.
 
 
So what did you think?
Do you agree with the rest of the voters? Either way make sure to leave a comment below and vote for your VHL Starting Goaltenders in todays poll. Also if you have anything that you would like me to create a poll to ask the league about; VHL related of course than comment below so that you have your Voice Heard and ........
 
Have Your Say!!

 

https://imgur.com/SNarkPUhttps://imgur.com/SNarkPUhttps://imgur.com/SNarkPU

 
The Wind of Change: Goaltenders
As the season starts to come to a close for the teams in the VHL, the winds of change are starting to blow the pages of the book and the final chapters of some of the more dominate goaltenders are being written. At the end of the season three career starting goaltenders will retire and leave a huge whole in the crease for the teams that they played for; while another four goaltenders will also retire at the end of season 94 meaning that half of the league will be looking to a new goaltender for the first time in quite a while.  So, join me to take a look at the dominating goaltenders careers, stats etc.. and what might be next for each of these teams as they try to fill the void left between the pipe.
 
 
 
(S85) G - Henry Tucker Jr 

 
                              Regular Season Career Stats:
  GP  Wins  Losses  OTL  GAA  Sav%  SO    515 278 184 46 2.66 0.925 24 14th most games played
Top 25 Wins
Top 25 Sav%,
S92 Continental Cup,
8th all time in Saves
 
Playoff Career stats:
  GP  Wins  Losses  OTL  GAA  Sav%  SO    49 25 21 3 2.55 0.933 3 Top 5 Save Percentage
 
Awards:
S85 Florida Man Trophy
S85 Renaissance Cup
S92 Continental Cup
 
 
Career Overview
Not viewed as one of the best goaltenders in the league but provided solid goaltending for Riga Reign for years before Riga decided to give the net to Red Panda @Lemorse7 seeing HenryTucker Jr @NSG traded to D.C. Dragons; in a much needed move as D.C. was a contending team needing a goaltender. It was a steep price to pay as the trade included Eno Velvson @Nykonax and S93 DCD 1st (Ray Stanton @horoscope) but overall the trade worked out extremely well for D.C. as they won the Continental Cup in S92 and could be back in the finals if they can get past the Seattle Bears in the Conference finals.  
 
Tucker Jr will finish with a solid career with the 8th most saves, Top 15 in most games played, Top 25 in wins and save percentage.
 
 
What is next for D.C. Dragons?
D.C. Dragons last season made a controversial trade with Moscow Menace to acquire the 19th overall selection where they drafted goaltender of the future in Herald Benson @Benson, who should nicely fill the void left by Tucker Jr, but won`t really be ready for VHL action until season 95. So, D.C. will need to decide if they try to find a stop gap goaltender in the short term or stunt Benson development by bring him straight up from the VHLM Huston Bulls. Likely the Dragons will park Benson in the VHLE with the Cologne Express. Issue for the Dragons is the fact that their window is closing with four other players expected to retire in the next season or two so I am expecting a rebuild rather than D.C. looking for a stop gap goaltender this off season. Will Benson be given time to develop? Either way, D.C. Dragons look set once Benson makes his debut for the Dragons.
 
 
 
(S85) G – Matt Murdock

                                Regular Season Career Stats:
  GP  Wins  Losses  OTL  GAA  Sav%  SO    456 257 147 42 2.54 0.927 22 Top 15 Save Percentage
Top 25 Saves
1st Prague Phantoms Games Played
1st Prague Phantoms Wins
2nd Prague Phantoms Save Percentage
3rd Prague Phantoms Goals Against Average
1st Prague Phantom Shut-outs
 
Playoff Career stats:
  GP  Wins  Losses  OTL  GAA  Sav%  SO    52 27 21 4 2.82 0.921 1 2nd Prague Phantoms Games Played
1st Prague Phantoms Wins
1st Prague Phantoms Save Percentage
Top 5 Prague Phantoms Goals Against Average
T - 2nd Prague Phantom Shut-outs
 
Awards:
S84 Renaissance Cup
S87 Christian Stolzschweiger Trophy
S90 Daisuke Kanou Trophy
                                Career Overview
Most like me probably won`t remember that Matt Murdock @Acydburn was a Moscow Menace 1st round selection in season 85 and played three season in the Moscow also being named the winner of Christian Stolzschweiger Trophy in season 86 as Rookie of the year. Most remember Murdock for his amazing playoff run with Prague Phantom in S90 where he went 12-2-2 with a 0.936% winning the Daisuke Kanou Trophy playoff MVP as Prague claimed their first Continental Cup. Again a solid goaltender that provided five season of good goaltending to Prague Phantoms.
 
 
What is next for Prague Phantoms?
Prague is heading for a rebuild like it or not and how quickly they come out of the rebuild will be partly determined by goaltending prospect Ondrej Vencko @Mutti. In a very similar situation as D.C. Dragons have with Benson, Prague faces with Vencko as he is still really another season away so could either be pushed into the VHL early or stay down into the VHLE to develop further. Sadly, I think Prague will bring him up early and it could be a ugly first season for the young netminder but as Prague improve so should Vencko numbers.
 
 
 
(S85) Jesse Teno

                                Regular Season Career Stats:
  GP  Wins  Losses  OTL  GAA  Sav%  SO    462 253 160 47 2.42 0.928 32 Top 15 Save Percentage
1st London United Games Played
1st London United Wins
2nd London United Save Percentage
T-2nd London United Goals Against Average
1st London United Shut-outs
 
 
Playoff Career stats:
  GP  Wins  Losses  OTL  GAA  Sav%  SO    74 43 25 6 2.34 0.938 9 Top 10 games played
Top 5 Wins
Top 20 Losses
Top 5 Save Percentage
Top 25 Goals Against Average
2nd All-Time Shutouts
1st London United Games Played
1st London United Wins
1st London United Goals Against Average
1st London United Save Percentage
1st London United Shut-outs
 
Awards:
S88 Daisuke Kanou Trophy
S88 Continental Cup
S91 Greg Clegane Trophy
S91 Aidan Shaw Trophy
S92 Daisuke Kanou Trophy
                                Career Overview
Jesse Teno @aimkin will simple become known for his playoff performances and should easily enter the HOF just based off his Playoff performances. He has been a great goaltender for the London United for the past eight season and most might not remember that he has also claimed Greg Clegane Trophy and Aidan Shaw Trophy outside of his overall playoff brilliance, two Daisuke Kanou Trophy but only one Continental Cup. Teno has stolen his far share of games for the United in the playoffs; he will try to claim a second and final Continental cup this season as London awaits the winner between Seattle (Rask) and D.C. (Tucker Jr). Could he win another Daisuke Kanou Trophy as his legend continue to grow?
 
 
What is next for London United?
I tend to look at everything as half full situation but London is staring down a ugly rebuild if they don`t move assets this off-season and get some prospects; as London had the worse prospect pool out of all teams when I completed my prospect pool rankings. With Teno retiring at the end of the playoff it is now time to sell everything, not to mention nine of the eleven players are set to retire over the next two seasons. While London United drafted Hugo Boss @Dil a few season ago, he will be a project to say the least. So, London will try to collect a few draft picks in the next few season and try to find a goaltender through the draft. In the short term they will likely look the UFA market to find a tender to play as the team rebuilds. How deep will London cut is now only the question remaining.
 
 
(S86) Joel Castle

                                Regular Season Career Stats:
  GP  Wins  Losses  OTL  GAA  Sav%  SO    442 213 186 40 2.61 0.924 25 Top 5 Toronto Legion Games Played
Top 5 Toronto Legion Wins
Top 10 Toronto Legion Save Percentage
Top 15 Toronto Legion Goals Against Average
Top 10 Toronto Legion Shut-outs
 
Playoff Career stats:
  GP  Wins  Losses  OTL  GAA  Sav%  SO    48 27 20 1 2.49 0.927 2 3rd Toronto Legion Games Played
Top 5 Toronto Legion Wins
Top 5 Toronto Legion Save Percentage
3rd Toronto Legion Goals Against Average
Top 10 Toronto Legion Shut-outs
 
Awards:
S84 Founder's Cup
S91 Daisuke Kanou Trophy
S91 Continental Cup
                                 
Career Overview
With a full season remaining in his career Joel Castle @animal74 has been a steady presence in the Toronto crease and will look to climb up the all time Toronto Legion goaltending leader board. Castle should be remember as one of the best goalies to play for the Legion behind names like Aidan Shaw and Greg Clegane. Caslte will also remember for his amazing S91 playoff run that lead to Castle winning the Daisuke Kanou Trophy on route to helping his team lift the Continental Cup, which I am sure most remember for a while at least in Toronto.
 
 
What is next for Toronto Legion?
Toronto has already started to transition to a new goaltender as (S91) Toddly Bobbly @ToddlyBobbly started backing up Castle starting last season and should see more playing time in S94 as this transition continues. Toronto overall has a decision to make this off season, either go for one more run or look to rebuild. I think they hold off a rebuild for one more season and make a huge push to win Castle his second Continental Cup and look to tear down the roster after Castle retires. Either way Bobbly will be ready for when Castle hangs up his skates for the final time at the end of next season.
 
 
 
(S86) Ash Sparks

                                Regular Season Career Stats:
  GP  Wins  Losses  OTL  GAA  Sav%  SO    333 192 106 31 2.46 0.925 26 2nd Malmo Nighthawks Games Played
2nd Malmo Nighthawks wins
5th Malmo Nighthawks Save Percentage
3rd Malmo Nighthawks Goals Against Average
2nd Malmo Nighthawks Shut-outs
 
Playoff Career stats:
  GP  Wins  Losses  OTL  GAA  Sav%  SO    13 3 6 4 3.01 0.917 0 Awards:
S92 Victory Cup
S93 Victory Cup
                                 
 
Career Overview
Ash Sparks has had a very interesting career as he looked set to claim the net in Seattle after two season as the back up in Seattle behind Dusty Wilson but the management in Seattle had different plans as team in compete now mode after losing a game seven in the Continental Cup finals to London United as Seattle would trade for Cole Pearce. Through whatever happened between player and management seen Sparks announce his retirement, only to see the Sparks unretire within days after finding out he had been traded to Malmo Nighthawks; good thing for Malmo. Sparks will also be known for his regualr season play with an impressive 58% winning percentage through the regular season and will be one of the all time great to every man the net for the Malmo Nighthawks; while so of being the face of the Malmo choke when it comes playoff time.
 
What is next for Malmo Nighthawks?
Malmo is in a rather good position at the moment to replace Sparks as Malmo has Karl Herzlich @LastGoon007 already on the roster in the back-up roll and could see more playing time next season. Malmo also have Jorgen Lovstrom @Pifferfish, who could make the jump to the VHL next season but the team might be better off letting him develop for another season in the VHLE so that they can make sure that he can hit the ground running.
 
 
 
(S86) Lachlan Summers

                                Regular Season Career Stats:
  GP  Wins  Losses  OTL  GAA  Sav%  SO    395 241 120 31 2.49 0.931 27 Top 10 Save Percentage
Top 10 HC Davos Dynamo Wins
Top 10 HC Davos Dynamo Save Percentage
Top 15 HC Davos Dynamo Goals Against Average
Top 10 HC Davos Dynamo Shut-outs
 
 
Playoff Career stats:
  GP  Wins  Losses  OTL  GAA  Sav%  SO    49 26 17 6 2.87 0.923 1 3rd HC Davos Dynamo All time Games played
T-2nd HC Davos Dynamo Wins
Top 10 HC Davos Dynamo Save Percentage
Top 10 HC Davos Dynamo Goals Against Average
2nd HC Davos Dynamo Saves
 
Awards:
S88 Christian Stolzschweiger Trophy
S89 Continental Cup
S90 Brett Slobodzian Trophy
S90 Greg Clegane Trophy
S90 Aidan Shaw Trophy
S90 Victory Cup
S91 Victory Cup
                                 
Career Overview
When a HOF goaltender is trade every expect to see a drop off from whoever tends the net the following few season but this wasn`t the case when HC Davos Dynamo traded Xavier Booberry to Seattle Bears in the off season of S88 after losing in the Continental Cup finals. Enter Summers, who simple posted an amazing 39-18-7 season with a 2.30 GAA and 0.938% to win the Christian Stolzschweiger Trophy but failed to make the Continental Cup final for second straight season losing to eventual winners London United; but Summers put the league on notice. S89 HC Davos Dynamo would win the Continental Cup up ending the much better Vancouver Wolves as Summers simple said not today after HC Davos dropped the first two game of the finals; finishing with a 12-4 record, 2.47 GAA and an amazing 0.937% (0.943%) for one of the best goaltending playoff performances. How he didn`t win the Daisuke Kanou Trophy is beyond me!! Summers would continue to dominate while in the net with HC Davos over the next two season before Davos decided to start a rebuild, winning Brett Slobodzian Trophy, Greg Clegane Trophy, Aidan Shaw Trophy and two Victory Cup but never could get HC Davos back to the Continental Cup finals. Trade after tough season in S91 to Warsaw Predators were he was back to his dominate self taking the Predators to the playoff before being swept by Moscow Menace in the Wildcard round. Clear HOF when his career ends next season.
 
 
What is next for Warsaw Predators?
Lachlan Summers has a player option and controls if he will return to the Predators next season but luckily Warsaw already has their goaltender of the future in the back-up role to Summers this season in Pipo Popa @npuBeT but the biggest question facing Warsaw is around the defense. No signed defenders for next season and no prospect ready to join the back-end so they will need to prove to Summers that they can put together a good bunch of defenders in front of him or see him walk as UFA. Currently fourteen UFA defenders so Warsaw does have options.
 
 
 
(S86) Fuukka Rask

                                Regular Season Career Stats:
  GP  Wins  Losses  OTL  GAA  Sav%  SO    430 194 179 40 2.79 0.922 24 2nd Helsinki Titans Game Played
Top 10 Helsinki Titans Wins
Top 15 Helsinki Titans Save Percentage
Top 10 Helsinki Titans Shut-outs
 
Playoff Career stats:
  GP  Wins  Losses  OTL  GAA  Sav%  SO    46 25 17 4 2.68 0.925 3 Top 5 Helsinki Titans Game Played
Top 10 Helsinki Titans Wins
2nd Helsinki Titans Save Percentage
Top 5 Helsinki Titans Goals Against Average
Top 5 Helsinki Titans Shut-outs
                                 
Career Overview
Fuukka Rask @Jubis is best described as the over-looked goaltender as he is always around the top of the league: at least the last few season but has not been able to claim any league awards. Played a huge role for Helsinki Titans for the past seven season before being traded to the Seattle Bears at this season trade deadline. S91 most will remember for the Helsinki Titan playoff run to the Continental Cup finals and the play of Rask. 13-6-3 with 2.31 GAA and an amazing 0.938%. Rask made the list of the best goaltender playoff performance three different times in the playoff run with an 0.954% in the first round against Malmo Nighthawks, followed by 0.948% against London United in the Conference finals and even an 0.934% in a losing cause against Toronto in the final. Great goaltender for Helsinki Titans but maybe under valued around the league; he will try to change that if the Seattle Bears can win the Continental Cup this season.
 
 
What is next for Seattle Bears?
Seattle Bears recognized Fuukka Rask as good option, as the Bears once again look to be a contender and hope to lift the Continental Cup at the end of the season. It gives the Bears some options next season as they could trade Rask to another team; if the price is right since Seattle has Giorgiy Costanzov @Mongoose87; who started the season as the Bears starter. Seattle is likely to keep Rask since it looks like most of the team roster will be back next season and Seattle should once again be in a position to contend.
 
 
 
Teams Looking for Goaltenders:
 

Merome Dilson @MexicanCow123 is currently set to become an UFA at the end of the season and could change the whole outlook for the Wranglers if he decides to sign elsewhere. Calgary doesn`t have a prospect or another goaltender behind Dilson so would either need to look to trade for a new tender or try to sign one of the remaining six that are UFA this season.
 
 

The Dragons will likely look for a stop gap as mentioned above but if unable to find one will likely see Herald Benson @Benson make his VHL debut for the team. Not a lot of pressure here to make a trade or sign a goaltender with Benson as the long term answer.
 
 

The rebuild seems to be entering another season but finally we are starting to see pieces joining the roster but Aleksanteri Kaskiniemi-Kekkonen @Snussu; Davos goaltender prospect is in a similar situation as Benson at D.C. as he just isn`t ready and could develop better if he stays in another season in the VHLE with Stockholm. That means Davos will likely look at a stop gap for another season and not rush Kaskiniemi-Kekkonen.
 
 

The Titans shocked everyone when they traded Fuukka Rask @Jubis at the trade deadline and really entered a rebuild out of the blue. No Goaltending prospect heading into the off season means they must draft a goaltender. Helsinki will look for a stop gap until they can find their goaltender of the future.
 
 

Could London look to try to sign a goaltender and run it back for one final season? I don`t think so as the United are set to sell of all other assets this off season and much like Helsinki will be looking to draft a goaltender in the S94 draft. They could wait another season or two but it might be a long rebuild in the square mile city.
 
 

Rebuild is going to get very ugly as not only do they need a goaltender but they also need a team as currently Los Angeles has no players signed for next season and only one prospect ready to join the club. I am not sure where Los Angeles starts when it comes in their rebuild but I would be looking goaltender all day whatever selection they get in this draft. Could they wait? Yes as they have so many needs but I would draft a goaltender with one of their two first round picks in this season draft.
 
 

I have to write this since Olober Syko @Spartan  is currently an UFA but really Moscow is set in the net for the foreseeable future as Skyo will re-sign.
 
 

At the end of the day Prague is in better shape than some of the other teams in the league as they have Ondrej Vencko @Mutti; a season away from joining the team but what do they do in the short term. Sign a stop gap goaltender or bring the kid in early stunting his development slightly? It will be interesting to see what direction Prague goes this off season.
 
 
New Era
With the eight goalies looking to retire in the next two season we will see a new era of goaltenders in the VHL and a huge shift in power with six teams looking for goaltender this off-season. How will this effect the league this off season, during the up coming draft and into the future seasons? Either way it will be interesting dynamic to watch over the next few seasons to see which goaltenders start to put their stamp on the league and possible a future HOF career.
 
 

Why be a Menace when you can be a
Wann Kerr?

Wow, it's pretty cool to even receive a vote for this!!

Thank you all for your nominations! Receiving more than 1 vote and therefore a place on the ballot are...
 
@Banackock
@LucyXpher
@Spartan
 
also receiving a vote each were...
@AJW @Ahma @Beketov @Joel Main @Tetricide @UghSike @ace_five_ @dlamb and @dstevensonjr
 
If you would like to know what you got nominated for, please PM me. I won't be able to respond promptly as currently travelling but I can let you know when I'm back next week.

1. It did concern me, but what really concerns me is that we lost in ONLY four games to D.C. in the first round. What happened??????
2. Well, my original was going to be Seattle, but now I guess I have to go with D.C.
3. Yes, if a team wins two Cups with the same core, we can call it a dynasty. So, if we win a Cup next season we can call it a dynasty. 
4. I really don't know, but if I have to take a guess, I will go with Steve Lattimer.
5. The beginning, so between S1 and like S10-15. 
6. I am really not gaming a lot, but when I play, I am playing at NHL 24.

1. Does it concern you that we went 2-6 in our last eight games to not only lose the Victory Cup but also the Conference title?
It’s always nice to have some wins heading into the post season but I don’t think it’s the end of the world. We are focussed on the playoffs now regardless.
2. Which North American team do you think will be our toughest test?
Probably Seattle - they’ve been on a heater since the trade deadline. They have a great run going heading into the postseason.
3. What defines a sports dynasty for you? If we win another Cup this season or next would you consider this Legion team a dynasty?
Three cups probably or 2 cups with 4 finals appearances. Lots of opportunity for that in the next couple seasons.
4. Who will score the Legion's first playoff goal?
Doesn’t matter to me as long as we do it more than the other team
5. What part of VHL history would you like to know more about?
probably more about expansion and how it came to bout.
6. Do you have a video game recommendation for your teammates?
I recently got back into fallout 4 because of the show - really loving it so far. 

1. Does it concern you that we went 2-6 in our last eight games to not only lose the Victory Cup but also the Conference title? It very much concerns me, I"d prefer to enter the playoffs with momentum. We have all of our goals ahead of us but this isn't the situation I wanted us to be in entering the playoffs.
2. Which North American team do you think will be our toughest test? Honestly, it's us against us. When we're playing our best, our best is better than anyone else's. So I'm not concerned about the opponent. But DC has had our number the past 2 years I think.
3. What defines a sports dynasty for you? If we win another Cup this season or next would you consider this Legion team a dynasty? A dynasty is 2 consecutive titles or 3 within a 5 year period I'd say.
4. Who will score the Legion's first playoff goal? Machado, dude is a stud
5. What part of VHL history would you like to know more about?  Honestly I'm good, I'd like to be making history not learning more about it
6. Do you have a video game recommendation for your teammates? The new ncaa football game when it comes out?

1. A little.  Teams made some big moves at the trade deadline, but we still had a great season and im confident in our group.  We also have a great management group that takes matchups seriously. At the end of the day the regular season is fun but the playoffs are whats important.
 
2. Probably Seattle - the way they steamrolled their way to the top of the conference with the addition of Rask was crazy.  It'll be a historic goalie duel if we face them!
 
3. I think at least 3 cups within 8 seasons would be dynasty level for a VHL team - we aren't quite there.
 
4. Money is on Jaks or Machado here.
 
5. It would be so cool if the early season players were somehow added to the portal.  I'd love to look at my old players that I managed when I was a kid lol
 
6. Been off the games these days, but recently grabbed the Delta emulator for iPhone.  Clutch for travelling.  I've been playing some Pokemon ROMs as well as some classic N64 games I played growing up such as Yoshi's Story 😆.

TEAM AWARDS

 
A lot of pressure followed the Legion into S92. They were now the defending Continental Cup champions and the target was squarely on them as they prepared for life without Dens Oden and Tomas Sogaard, two key members of their Cup run. The core remained the same with rookie Kobe Johnson and mid-season acquisition Steve Lattimer brought in to bolster the roster. Despite down years from Mac Atlas and Joel Castle, Toronto made the playoffs as the 4th seed in the North American Conference with continued solid production from Jimi Jaks and Bobby Bob and strong sophomore campaigns from Harry Callahan, Diego Machado and Walter Fitzroy Jr. After defeating New York in the first round, the Legion shocked the VHL by taking out top-seeded Calgary in six games to make their third straight Conference Final. Their luck ended there, however, as they lost in five games to the eventual Cup champs, the D.C. Dragons. 
 
Here are some of the individual highlights:
-        Jimi Jaks was T-10th in the VHL in goals with 38, T-2nd with 3 hat tricks, and 10th with 487 shots
-        Jaks was also 5th in playoff scoring with 5-16-21 in 15 games.
-        Bobby Bob’s career-high 71 points were T-6th among defensemen and his 56 assists were T-11th
-        Harry Callahan was T-2nd with 9 GWG and 9th with 489 shots
-        Mac Atlas set career-highs with 96 PIM and 207 hits
-        Jimmy MacElroy tied his career-high of 10 goals and set highs of 142 shots and 6 PPG in his final season
-        Evan Bihler set career-highs in games (14) and minutes played (648) and SV% (0.938) in his final season
-        Joel Castle co-led the league with 6 shutouts and was 8th with 32 wins and a 2.56 GAA
 
Statistical Leaders:
 
Goals: 
 Jimi Jaks
38
Assists:
 Bobby Bob
56
Points:
 Jimi Jaks
83
+/-:
 Jimi Jaks
30
PIM:
 Jimmy MacElroy
107
Hits:
 Mac Atlas
207
Shots:
 Harry Callahan
489
Shots Blocked:
 Walter Fitzroy Jr
146
PPG:
 Jimi Jaks, Steve Lattimer
7
GWG:
 Harry Callahan
9
Fights:
 Diego Machado
6
Wins:
 Joel Castle
32
GAA:
 Evan Bihler
2.04
SV%:
 Evan Bihler
0.938
SO:
 Joel Castle
6
 
 
 
Here are the S92 Team Awards as voted by the Toronto players and management:
 
Best Defenseman
Bobby Bob @Baby Boomer
For the second straight season, Bobby Bob lead the Legion in assists with 56 and also led Toronto defensemen with his career-highs in goals (15), points (71, tied for 6th among VHL defensemen), and shots (172) and led them in plus/minus (13). His continued excellence in all three zones was a reason why he was also a major contributor on special teams.
 
Rookie of the Year
Kobe Johnson @Vkobe-v
It’s been a long journey to the VHL for Ukrainian winger Kobe Johnson. Drafted with the first of Toronto’s three 2nd round picks in the S86 Draft, Johnson has continued developing throughout two seasons in the VHLM and five in the VHLE before making the cut in S92. The only rookie on the Legioni roster, he had a solid campaign scoring 9-13-22 showing skill and versatility. He potted 3 PPG, 2 GWG, and even scored on his only shootout attempt of the season.
 
Unsung Hero
Harry Callahan @dstevensonjr
Although only in his second season, Callahan quickly cemented himself as an integral part of the Legion’s offense. He was second in team scoring with 75 points and third in goals with 30. But he also showed how he was willing to sacrifice his body with 36 blocks and also shone in the clutch by leading Toronto with 9 game-winning goals.
 
Most Energetic
Harry Callahan @dstevensonjr
Someone would see Callahan’s team-leading shot totals (489) from S92 and assume he was all over the ice and they’d be right. A seemingly endless motor helped him to improve on his rookie campaign by 20 points and 70 hits (180, 4th on the team). His increased performance and energy was even more evident in the locker room as he became one of the Legion’s most vocal players. This is his second consecutive Most Energetic award.
 
Most Gentlemanly
Joel Castle @animal74
Although a fierce competitor, Toronto’s veteran goaltender is known also for his sportsmanship and gentlemanly demeanor on and off the ice. Never one to let a milestone go by without kudos, Castle keeps spirits high and encourages dedication and buy in. This is Castle’s fourth Most Gentlemanly award.
 
Most Valuable Player
Jimi Jaks @ke1vi
On a team that finished in the bottom half of the league in scoring, Jaks’ 38 goals was very significant for the Legion and was tied for 10th in the VHL. Not only did he lead the team in scoring for the second time in his career with his 2nd straight 80+ point campaign (a career-high 83), he also lead Toronto in plus/minus with +30 which was 11 more than the next player. He was tied for 1st with 7 PPG and second in shots (487, also a career-high). His commitment to detail has allowed him to improve his point total for the fourth straight season and his all-around game helped keep Toronto in the playoff hunt.
 
Legionary of the Year
Harry Callahan @dstevensonjr
As mentioned previously, Callahan burst onto the Toronto scene not only on the ice but also off of it. He quickly cemented himself in the Legion culture and his strong leadership, strong work ethic, and outgoing personality endeared him to his teammates, management and the fans. He was also selected as an alternate captain in only his second season thus making an easy vote for his second straight Legionary of the Year award.
 
3-Stars Award
Jimi Jaks @ke1vi
Jaks contributed on the scoresheet most nights and when he didn’t, he did the little things that win hockey games. The Legion’s most valuable player led the team in goals, points, and plus/minus and that led to also leading the team in total 3-Star selections and points. He also led the team in 2nd-Star selections with 11.
 
Full 3-Star standings below:
 

 
Congratulations to all the award winners!
 
 

TEAM AWARDS

 
A lot of pressure followed the Legion into S92. They were now the defending Continental Cup champions and the target was squarely on them as they prepared for life without Dens Oden and Tomas Sogaard, two key members of their Cup run. The core remained the same with rookie Kobe Johnson and mid-season acquisition Steve Lattimer brought in to bolster the roster. Despite down years from Mac Atlas and Joel Castle, Toronto made the playoffs as the 4th seed in the North American Conference with continued solid production from Jimi Jaks and Bobby Bob and strong sophomore campaigns from Harry Callahan, Diego Machado and Walter Fitzroy Jr. After defeating New York in the first round, the Legion shocked the VHL by taking out top-seeded Calgary in six games to make their third straight Conference Final. Their luck ended there, however, as they lost in five games to the eventual Cup champs, the D.C. Dragons. 
 
Here are some of the individual highlights:
-        Jimi Jaks was T-10th in the VHL in goals with 38, T-2nd with 3 hat tricks, and 10th with 487 shots
-        Jaks was also 5th in playoff scoring with 5-16-21 in 15 games.
-        Bobby Bob’s career-high 71 points were T-6th among defensemen and his 56 assists were T-11th
-        Harry Callahan was T-2nd with 9 GWG and 9th with 489 shots
-        Mac Atlas set career-highs with 96 PIM and 207 hits
-        Jimmy MacElroy tied his career-high of 10 goals and set highs of 142 shots and 6 PPG in his final season
-        Evan Bihler set career-highs in games (14) and minutes played (648) and SV% (0.938) in his final season
-        Joel Castle co-led the league with 6 shutouts and was 8th with 32 wins and a 2.56 GAA
 
Statistical Leaders:
 
Goals: 
 Jimi Jaks
38
Assists:
 Bobby Bob
56
Points:
 Jimi Jaks
83
+/-:
 Jimi Jaks
30
PIM:
 Jimmy MacElroy
107
Hits:
 Mac Atlas
207
Shots:
 Harry Callahan
489
Shots Blocked:
 Walter Fitzroy Jr
146
PPG:
 Jimi Jaks, Steve Lattimer
7
GWG:
 Harry Callahan
9
Fights:
 Diego Machado
6
Wins:
 Joel Castle
32
GAA:
 Evan Bihler
2.04
SV%:
 Evan Bihler
0.938
SO:
 Joel Castle
6
 
 
 
Here are the S92 Team Awards as voted by the Toronto players and management:
 
Best Defenseman
Bobby Bob @Baby Boomer
For the second straight season, Bobby Bob lead the Legion in assists with 56 and also led Toronto defensemen with his career-highs in goals (15), points (71, tied for 6th among VHL defensemen), and shots (172) and led them in plus/minus (13). His continued excellence in all three zones was a reason why he was also a major contributor on special teams.
 
Rookie of the Year
Kobe Johnson @Vkobe-v
It’s been a long journey to the VHL for Ukrainian winger Kobe Johnson. Drafted with the first of Toronto’s three 2nd round picks in the S86 Draft, Johnson has continued developing throughout two seasons in the VHLM and five in the VHLE before making the cut in S92. The only rookie on the Legioni roster, he had a solid campaign scoring 9-13-22 showing skill and versatility. He potted 3 PPG, 2 GWG, and even scored on his only shootout attempt of the season.
 
Unsung Hero
Harry Callahan @dstevensonjr
Although only in his second season, Callahan quickly cemented himself as an integral part of the Legion’s offense. He was second in team scoring with 75 points and third in goals with 30. But he also showed how he was willing to sacrifice his body with 36 blocks and also shone in the clutch by leading Toronto with 9 game-winning goals.
 
Most Energetic
Harry Callahan @dstevensonjr
Someone would see Callahan’s team-leading shot totals (489) from S92 and assume he was all over the ice and they’d be right. A seemingly endless motor helped him to improve on his rookie campaign by 20 points and 70 hits (180, 4th on the team). His increased performance and energy was even more evident in the locker room as he became one of the Legion’s most vocal players. This is his second consecutive Most Energetic award.
 
Most Gentlemanly
Joel Castle @animal74
Although a fierce competitor, Toronto’s veteran goaltender is known also for his sportsmanship and gentlemanly demeanor on and off the ice. Never one to let a milestone go by without kudos, Castle keeps spirits high and encourages dedication and buy in. This is Castle’s fourth Most Gentlemanly award.
 
Most Valuable Player
Jimi Jaks @ke1vi
On a team that finished in the bottom half of the league in scoring, Jaks’ 38 goals was very significant for the Legion and was tied for 10th in the VHL. Not only did he lead the team in scoring for the second time in his career with his 2nd straight 80+ point campaign (a career-high 83), he also lead Toronto in plus/minus with +30 which was 11 more than the next player. He was tied for 1st with 7 PPG and second in shots (487, also a career-high). His commitment to detail has allowed him to improve his point total for the fourth straight season and his all-around game helped keep Toronto in the playoff hunt.
 
Legionary of the Year
Harry Callahan @dstevensonjr
As mentioned previously, Callahan burst onto the Toronto scene not only on the ice but also off of it. He quickly cemented himself in the Legion culture and his strong leadership, strong work ethic, and outgoing personality endeared him to his teammates, management and the fans. He was also selected as an alternate captain in only his second season thus making an easy vote for his second straight Legionary of the Year award.
 
3-Stars Award
Jimi Jaks @ke1vi
Jaks contributed on the scoresheet most nights and when he didn’t, he did the little things that win hockey games. The Legion’s most valuable player led the team in goals, points, and plus/minus and that led to also leading the team in total 3-Star selections and points. He also led the team in 2nd-Star selections with 11.
 
Full 3-Star standings below:
 

 
Congratulations to all the award winners!