animal74

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!
 
 

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!
 
 

https://imgur.com/0abbrjRhttps://imgur.com/0abbrjR
 
When I first started this project, I started out with the idea of rating every teams’ prospects and then grading the team on the selections that they made but the more I dove head first into collecting data the harder it was for me to justify grading only the Prospect Pool list on the team page since a majority of the teams had a failing grade due to some teams draft heavily in some drafts and not at all in other drafts. I then decided that a Prospect should be a player that is still in the prospect pool but also still on a rookie contract. While this moved some of the team into a positive position, I am still not complete sure that this is an accurate show case of a team’s prospect pool but rather more a show where a team currently stands or will stand in the next few seasons as it is only a small three season snap shot. Team in a competitive window of win now will not be drafting near the first round or at least not often enough to affect their score in a hugely positive manner. While a team rebuilding the past two or three seasons will show positive since they have collected or should have collected a good number of prospects and lastly a team just starting into a rebuild will have a hugely negative ranking since none of the prospect have either joined the team yet or been drafted yet.
 
Take the ranking at face value is what I am trying to say but could be a good indicator of what teams might be up and coming in the next few seasons while it could also indicate, which teams might be falling off slightly.
 
Either way let’s take a look at each teams’ prospects:
 
                                                                                                                                                                                                         
 

Number of Prospects:  10 1st Round Picks:  0 2nd Round Picks:  3 3rd Round Picks:  4 4th Round Pick:  3 Prospect in the VHL:  0 VHL Ready Prospects:  1 Inactive Prospects:  5  
Calgary Wranglers Prospects      (S93) LW - Miner vHLer (OSL)  @Rhynex Entertainment 17th (2nd Round) (S93) RW - Oliver Loo (SSK) (COL)  @Misty 23rd (2nd Round)  (S93) D - Wladyslaw Mintus (HOU) (OSL)  @mintusaurus 37th (3rd round)  (S93) D - Carson Tripp (SSK) (STO)  @Cartripp14 29th (2nd Round) (S93) LW - Hunter s (SDM)  @Hunter S 59th (4th Round) (S91) D - Hezeus Ohmontegue-Steinhardt X (VAS)  @Sisyphus 35th (3rd Round)  (S93) RW - Trimiskez Artav (STO)  @jake 60th (4th Round) (S93) D - Vanman Stein (COL)  @Vanman 55th (4th Round) (S91) C - Hershey McFleury  @YaBoiDuggie 44th (3rd Round)  (S91) D - Thickums Mcgillacutty  @Jer_Lefebvre 46th (3rd Round)   
 
 
Grade: F (score: 29.00)    
Calgary Wranglers prospect pool is rather shallow due to draft location in the past three season with only three 2nd round picks with (S93) LW - Miner vHLer (OSL) @Rhynex Entertainment the teams current best prospect ready to join the roster next season. (S93) RW - Oliver Loo (SSK) (COL) @Misty is still another season away and should join in season 96; with two other S93 Draft picks ready the season after in (S93) D - Wladyslaw Mintus (HOU) (OSL) @mintusaurus and (S93) D - Carson Tripp (SSK) (STO) @Cartripp14. So, how does Calgary have an F grade with four players joining their roster from their prospect pool in the next three seasons? This is due to the inactive players and the fact that the team doesn`t have a need for top prospects being VHL ready in the past three season this season or next thus the grading system hurts them more than other teams.
 
Calgary Wranglers have two player retiring at the end of the season in (S85) D - Phil Strasmore @Phil and (S85) LW - Larry Abass Jr @RileyL; (S93) LW - Miner vHLer (OSL)  should replace the retiring Abass Jr @RileyL nicely while Calgary will need to look for a temporary defender or two as the team waits on their top two defending prospects in (S93) D - Wladyslaw Mintus (HOU) (OSL) @mintusaurusand (S93) D - Carson Tripp (SSK) (STO) @Cartripp14; who won`t be ready until S97. Timing is also prefect for (S93) RW - Oliver Loo (SSK) (COL) @Misty as they should also replace the retiring (S86) RW - Adam Rage @MrMom at the end of next season should he resign this off season.
 
Overall, Calgary Wranglers are in an interesting position as they should be in a compete now situation but as if writing Calgary are tied for the final Wildcard spot and will hope that they can force their way into the playoffs. The team will need to re-tool or enter a rebuild in the next three or four season so should become larger players in future drafts and see their prospect pool become stronger.
 
                                                                                                                                                                                                         
 

Number of Prospects:  9 1st Round Picks:  4 2nd Round Picks:  3 3rd Round Picks:  1 4th Round Pick:  1 Prospect in the VHL:  4 VHL Ready Prospects:  2 Inactive Prospects:  0  
Chicago Phoenix Prospects     (S91) RW - Bryce Woodworth  @SirRupertBarnes 22nd (2nd Round)  (S91) LW - Joshua Schwarzer  @Velevra 6th (1st Round)  (S91) D - Lionel Collberg @Masu Chan 11th (1st Round)  (S92) D - Karol Lamb  @dlamb 8th (1st Round) (S93) LW - UghSike (OSL)  @UghSike 5th (1st Round)  (S93) LW - Jean-Pierre Devote (COL)  @eagle_3450 20th (2nd Round)  (S93) C - Vanuza Kolesinska (ROM)  @chikn 18th (2nd Round)  (S93) LW - Kevin OConnor (OTT) (VAS)  @Luke033 52nd (4th Round)  (S93) C - Micah Cederbaum (SSK) (COL)  @MicahC 46th (3rd Round)  
 
Grade: B +   (score: 78.33)    
Chicago Phoenix has rather impressive depth in their prospect pool aided by the fact that four of the prospects from the past three season have already made the jump to the VHL for the team. More impress is the fact that they took a risk on (S93) LW - Jean-Pierre Devote (COL) @eagle_3450; who if I remember correctly had shown signs of inactivity just before the draft and seen his draft stock fall to the second round; in which now looks like a rather smart pick; as he is ready for the VHL next season along with last season 5th overall selection (S93) LW - UghSike (OSL) @UghSike. Mean while (S93) C - Vanuza Kolesinska (ROM) @chikn is still another full season away but means we will see three of the five players in the Chicago prospect pool making VHL debut in the next two seasons.
 
Chicago forward core might look a lot different next season with (S85) RW - Babay Shrimp @Blazzer as the only player set to retire but both (S93) LW - UghSike (OSL) @UghSike and (S93) LW - Jean-Pierre Devote (COL) @eagle_3450 set to join the roster; something will need give!! Luckily for Chicago they have a single forward signed at the moment for next season so should easily have room for the two forward prospects and (S93) C - Vanuza Kolesinska (ROM) @chikn the season after.
 
Overall, Chicago Phoenix look like a team moving in the right direction but will need to follow last season strong draft by adding more VHL ready prospects to an already deep prospect pool.
 
                                                                                                                                                                                                         
 

Number of Prospects:  6 1st Round Picks:  1 2nd Round Picks:  2 3rd Round Picks:  2 4th Round Pick:  1 Prospect in the VHL:  1 VHL Ready Prospects:  1 Inactive Prospects:  2  
D.C. Dragons Prospects     (S91) C - Theo Allard  @InstantRockstar 10th (1st Round)  (S91) RW - Tom Dufour (VAS)  @Cookie 29th (2nd Round)  (S89) LW - Justin Chen  @Jchin1604 33rd (3rd Round)  (S93) G - Herald Benson (HOU)  @Benson 19th (2nd Round)  (S93) G - Connor Hellebuyck (MEX)  @HockeyFan4Life 48th (3rd Round) (S93) RW - Brash Candicoot  @TrinityMonk 64th (4th Round)   
Grade: E (score: 41.67)  
D.C. Dragons are the defending Continental Cup champions and it shouldn`t be a huge surprise that the Dragons have one of the small prospect pools of all the team in the league but have some very key prospects starting with (S93) G - Herald Benson (HOU) @Benson, who like it or not is going to be the goaltender of the future for the Dragons. But there is a problem; (S85) G - Henry Tucker Jr @NSG retires at the end of this season and Benson is still a season away so D.C. has a huge problem and question mark around what they will do in the off season; to get a goaltender until Benson is ready. (S91) RW - Tom Dufour (VAS) @Cookie is ready to make the jump to the VHL next season but doesn`t seem to have a place within the current roster structure in D.C. so could be moved during the off season in either a deal to bring in another defender or a stop gap goaltender.
 
D.C. Dragons are still in contend now mode but will need to find a goaltender to cover off the development gap while they wait for goaltender of the future Benson to be ready and with an aging forward core could look to retool in the off season or the following off season as majority of the forward core will retire.
 
                                                                                                                                                                                                         
 

Number of Prospects:  18 1st Round Picks:  4 2nd Round Picks:  5 3rd Round Picks:  4 4th Round Pick:  3 Prospect in the VHL:  0 VHL Ready Prospects:  3 Inactive Prospects:  1  
HC Davos Dynamo Prospects      (S93) C - Antonia Bucatini (OSL)  @CowboyinAmerica 1st (1st Round)  (S91) D - Sunset Moth (PHI) (VAS)  @McWolf 13th (1st Round)  (S93) LW - Forum Content (BRA)  @frescoelmo 6th (1st Round)  (S91) G - David Slezak  @ShawnGlade 20th (2nd Round)  (S91) RW - Ivan Ivanov (VAS)  @KmaddFPS 32nd (2nd Round)  (S93) G - Aleksanteri Kaskiniemi-Kekkonen  @Snussu 12th (1st Round)  (S93) RW - Steve French (ROM)  @Seabass 21st (2nd Round)  (S91) C - Piston Maicupp (ROM)  @MandyManiac 43rd (3rd Round)  (S92) LW - Dwight shcrute (STO)  @Jamomayo 17th (2nd Round)  (S93) D - Billy Joel (HOU) (ROM)  @The goat of hockey 27th (2nd Round)  (S93) G - Kendra Cavill (LVA)  @Firekiss 42nd (3rd Round)  (S93) D - Masa Akimoto (LVA) (STO)  @Hokikeijot 47th (3rd Round)  (S93) RW - Armas Jortikka (MIA) (OSL)  @Kavadar 50th (4th Round)  (S93) G - Da TypThond (SSK)  @Erik Undrafted  (S93) D - Russell Sprout (MIA) (ROM)  @betta57 45th (3rd Round)  (S93) G - Austin Goulet lll (SSK)  @Tuchy Undrafted  (S93) D - Blaze Thunderstrike (LVA)  @eaglesfan036 56th (4th Round)  (S93) D - Magni Jinn (PHI) (VAS)  @DontCallMeCarson 49th (4th Round)   
 
 
Grade: E (score: 40.56)  
HC Davos went with the quantity over quality aspect when it comes to their team’s overall prospect pool but that doesn`t mean that they don`t have quality within their prospect pool as Davos has three prospect ready to join the VHL next season in (S93) C - Antonia Bucatini (OSL) @CowboyinAmerica, (S91) D - Sunset Moth (PHI) (VAS) @McWolf and (S93) LW - Forum Content (BRA) @frescoelmo. Whom should be followed rather quickly by three more prospect the following season in goaltender of the future (S93) G - Aleksanteri Kaskiniemi-Kekkonen @Snussu, (S93) RW - Steve French (ROM) @Seabass and (S93) D - Billy Joel (HOU) (ROM) @The goat of hockey. So, six prospect in the next two season joining your roster should sound great right? Not when you have nothing on your roster in the first place. These six players are the starting blocks of foundation of a building and will need to hold it together for another season or two. Expect to see Davos at the bottom of the league for at least another season or two unless they start to move prospect for veteran player to build a competitive team.
 
                                                                                                                                                                                                         
 

Number of Prospects:  13 1st Round Picks:  2 2nd Round Picks:  5 3rd Round Picks:  3 4th Round Pick:  2 Prospect in the VHL:  2 VHL Ready Prospects:  0 Inactive Prospects:  5  
Helsinki Titans Prospects      (S92) LW - Adi Dassler  @BOOM 3rd (1st Round)  (S91) LW - Isaac mclflopper  @sportexperts show 19th (2nd Round)  (S92) LW - Matthew Highmore (VAS)  @NineIQ v2 19th (2nd Round)  (S93) C - Tyler Lawson (ROM)  @Nyx 14th (1st Round)  (S90) RW - Barry McOckiner (COL)  @LanerDUST 33rd (3rd Round)  (S93) RW - Anthony Simmons II (MIS) (COL)  @Starchychaff 35th (3rd Round)  (S92) D - Dustin Moore (HFX)  @Maxx 24th (2nd Round)  (S93) G - Samuel Wazinski  @samthemancub 30th (2nd Round)  (S91) C - Keegan Vos (ROM)  @DDZ_44 39th (3rd Round)  (S93) D - Landon Flatt (OTT) (BRA)  @Lando10 62nd (4th Round)  (S93) C - Aiden Paige (MIA)  @Apaige131 Undrafted (S93) RW - Cole Stermer (HOU) (BRA)  @Bazeus 57th (4th Round)  (S93) LW - Filip Zinek (HOU) (BRA)  @FiZi 32nd (2nd Round)   
 
Grade: F (score: 30.77)  
With one of your best prospect being a player that you just traded for in (S92) LW - Adi Dassler @BOOM; who came over via a trade with Moscow Menace shows that the team might be heading in the wrong direction. No VHL ready prospect for a team that is outside of the playoff looking in and traded away their starting goaltender without having a goalie of the future in place means Helsinki looks to be in a tight spot, needing to either trade for a starting goaltender or draft a starting goaltender this off season but likely means if the team cannot get a starter next season; will once again be watching the playoff next season.
 
(S92) LW - Matthew Highmore (VAS) @NineIQ v2 and (S93) C - Tyler Lawson (ROM) @Nyx are two season away and should replace retiring pair (S87) RW - Ellis Woolfenden @D3X and (S87) LW - Jarkko Laakkonen @Xdjk93 at that time. After that Helsinki will need to hope that they hit on majority of their twelve picks this coming draft as the rest of the prospect are rather slim picking at the moment; not helped by five inactive prospects. Helsinki seems to be throwing as many darts at the board and hoping a few of them will stick; not the best way of building a prospect pool in my opinion. If I am correct Helsinki with have twenty-four prospect by the end of this season draft. Luckily for Helsinki; they don`t have any major needs to build a roster next season other than a starting goaltender.
 
                                                                                                                                                                                                         
 

Number of Prospects:  8 1st Round Picks:  1 2nd Round Picks:  3 3rd Round Picks:  2 4th Round Pick:  2 Prospect in the VHL:  0 VHL Ready Prospects:  0 Inactive Prospects:  3  
London United Prospects    Drafted  (S90) D - Joseph Dubois (COL)  @Dubois 37th (3rd Round)  (S91) C - Alexandros Mograine (COL)  @sliceruser 42nd (3rd Round)  (S91) D - Scrungle Bungle (COL)  @Novanod 21st (2nd Round)  (S91) D - Arne Holmquist (BRA)  @axtron 25th (2nd Round)  (S92) D - Vanellope von Schweetz (COL)  @Arce 13th (1st Round)  (S92) G - Hugo Boss (OTT)  @Dil 22nd (2nd Round)  (S93) C - Jacob Longstreet (SSK) (COL)  @Dynamicmlb_42 51st (4th Round)  (S93) LW - Owen two (MEX) (BRA)  @do3bo1 63rd (4th Round)   
 
 
Grade: F (score: 12.50)  
By far the worse prospect pool in the VHL but should anyone be surprised when the team has been super competitive for the past six or seven season; if not longer. An aging roster in a season of either win or bust means that they have either traded away most of their future picks, prospects or selected late in the first round to be competitive. This team is set to enter a rebuild regardless of what happens during this season playoff and will look to see their prospect pool depth increase in the next few seasons.
 
Doesn`t help either when 40% of your prospect pool is also inactive and your top prospect in (S90) D - Joseph Dubois (COL) @Dubois is also inactive. (S91) C - Alexandros Mograine (COL) @sliceruser seems like a hidden gem grabbed in the 3rd round and could make the roster as early as next season; rather impressive from such a late pick. While (S91) D - Scrungle Bungle (COL) @Novanod is two season away at best still but could play a large role as part of the rebuild in London. It will be an interesting off-season in London to see how they start to retool or enter a complete rebuild like I think they are headed for.
 
                                                                                                                                                                                                         
 

Number of Prospects:  7 1st Round Picks:  1 2nd Round Picks:  3 3rd Round Picks:  1 4th Round Pick:  0 Prospect in the VHL:  0 VHL Ready Prospects:  1 Inactive Prospects:  2  
Los Angeles Stars Prospects      (S91) RW - Nico Belique (STO)  @Syzygy 24th (2nd Round)  (S92) LW - Joe Shmo (BRA)  @matt sovick 15th (1st Round)  (S93) D - WWumbo (STO)  @Fire Tortorella 22nd (2nd Round)  (S91) LW - Leo Neelson III (SSK)  @silentnyrf31 Undrafted  (S93) C - Taylor Swift (MIS) (ROM)  @lilchrist 26th (2nd Round)  (S93) LW - Connor simard (HFX) (BRA)  @Alex99 36th (3rd Round)  (S93) D - Connor Mclaughlin (LVA)  @Connor Mclaughling Undrafted   
 
 
Grade: F (score: 28.57)  
Considering Los Angeles Stars took majority of their roster straight into retirement; they have done a fairly good job at starting the process of rebuilding their prospect pool by adding picks; which I am not reviewing and (S91) RW - Nico Belique (STO) @Syzygy via a trade from Vancouver Wolves. The Stars will need to hit on every pick in the next two drafts with limited draft picks and the fact that they have already missed on (S93) D - WWumbo (STO) @Fire Tortorella with their 22nd overall pick last season as he seems to have gone inactive. The only 1st round prospect in (S92) LW - Joe Shmo (BRA) @matt sovick has also gone inactive since being traded to Los Angeles from Vancouver. (S93) C - Taylor Swift (MIS) (ROM) @lilchrist and (S93) LW - Connor simard (HFX) (BRA) @Alex99 are still a few season away from joining the VHL and the Stars but should be joining the roster just as it starts to turn the corner.
 
The Stars have a large shopping list and they should be shopping this off season when the draft starts in a few more weeks. It will be interesting to see who they draft at either 1st overall or 2nd overall depending the outcome of the draft Lotto but with a very strong draft they should come out with three or four really strong foundational pieces to build their team around.
 
                                                                                                                                                                                                         
 

Number of Prospects:  7 1st Round Picks:  2 2nd Round Picks:  2 3rd Round Picks:  3 4th Round Pick:  0 Prospect in the VHL:  1 VHL Ready Prospects:  1 Inactive Prospects:  2  
Malmo Nighthawks Prospects      (S91) C - Phillip Rave  @tcookie 17th (2nd Round)  (S93) G - Jorgen Lovstrom  @Pifferfish 7th (1st Round)  (S92) G - Olafur Gunnleifsson  @JartY 10th (1st Round)  (S93) RW - Ocean Codoller (OTT) (BRA)  @FreshOceanCod 39th (3rd Round)  (S91) G - Shaunca (MIS)  @shaun1979 48th (3rd Round)  (S93) C - Caleb Nowell (OTT) (ROM)  @PhoenixsPc 44th (3rd Round)  (S92) RW - Bjorn Ragnulf  @ng1291 26th (2nd Round)   
 
 
Grade: F (score: 37.86)  
S92 Draft was very unkind to the Malmo Nighthawks as the drafted two players in (S92) G - Olafur Gunnleifsson (10th overall) and (S92) RW - Bjorn Ragnulf (26th overall) @ng1291; both have since gone inactive meaning Malmo came away from the S92 draft with no prospects. This forced them to double down and select (S93) G - Jorgen Lovstrom (7th overall) @Pifferfish their only VHL ready prospect following season. (S93) G - Jorgen Lovstrom @Pifferfish will join the team as the teams goaltender of the future just in time as (S86) G - Ash Sparks @DarkSpyro is set to retire of the second time in his career but with a season of transition means Malmo shouldn`t see any drop off in way of a team in the contention for the Continental Cup. With only one hole to fill due to surprise announcement that (S86) RW - Yaroslav Bogatyrev @Bojovnik was retiring a season early and no 1st round picks in the next two season; it looks like the prospect pool might remain rather slim pickings for at least a few more seasons. Not a huge concern since most of the team is still in the prime and a key piece already in place in (S93) G - Jorgen Lovstrom @Pifferfish.
 
                                                                                                                                                                                                         
 

Number of Prospects:  11 1st Round Picks:  6 2nd Round Picks:  5 3rd Round Picks:  0 4th Round Pick:  0 Prospect in the VHL:  4 VHL Ready Prospects:  2 Inactive Prospects:  4  
Prospects      (S91) LW - Grimgor Ironhide  @FrostBeard 7th (1st Round)  (S92) C - George Richmond  @badcolethetitan 2nd (1st Round)  (S91) D - Leif Reingaard  @Zetterberg 3rd (1st Round)  (S91) G - Olober Syko @Spartan 5th (1st Round)  (S93) D - Benjamin Abenduct (OSL)  @Schnee 9th (1st Round)  (S90) D - Didier Verhault (ROM)  @FTK 21st (2nd Round)  (S91) LW - Olumide Anderson (OSL)  @Theory 23rd (2nd Round)  (S92) D - Petit Hughie (LVA) (ROM)  @Sen 14th (1st Round)  (S92) D - Viktor Vyzovsky (STO)  @Vik 18th (2nd Round)  (S93) C - Walter Jinn (PHI) (VAS)  @Adrest245 31st (2nd Round)  (S92) C - Wernher von Braun (VAS)  @Prof. Zach Enron 20th (2nd Round)   
 
Grade: C (score: 59.54)  
Moscow has collected a lot of young talent over the past four or five season but I would have thought that they would have scored higher with four players already on the main roster in the likes of (S91) LW - Grimgor Ironhide @FrostBeard, (S92) C - George Richmond @badcolethetitan, (S91) D - Leif Reingaard @Zetterberg and (S91) G - Olober Syko @Spartan  but missing on four draft pick seems to have driven down the score; not to mention either rebuild really started in S90 and I am only going to S91 due to rookie contracts. This shows that Moscow really has transitioned or really should be transitioning into a win now situation. Scary to think not only does Moscow have (S93) D - Benjamin Abenduct (OSL) @Schnee and (S91) LW - Olumide Anderson (OSL) @Theory ready to join the roster as early as next season but they also currently hold two first round pick in this season strong first round draft. How likely are we to see some of these prospect trade to rebuilding teams?
 
                                                                                                                                                                                                         
 

Number of Prospects:  5 1st Round Picks:  4 2nd Round Picks:  0 3rd Round Picks:  1 4th Round Pick:  0 Prospect in the VHL:  2 VHL Ready Prospects:  1 Inactive Prospects:  1  
Prospects      (S91) D - Callum Gary Yannick Janser  @Daniel Janser 1st (1st Round)  (S91) D - Rin Kagamine  @Rin 15th (1st Round)  (S92) C - Wayne Gretzky (OSL)  @MubbleFubbles 11th (1st Round)  (S93) LW - Chris Reynolds Jr (OSL)  @Crstats23 11th (1st Round)  (S91) LW - Luna Everdeen (STO)  @Dee 34th (3rd Round)   
 
Grade: B (score: 75.00)  
S91 Draft was the last draft ran by the old management @thadthrasher before handing over the management duties to current Manager @STZ but set the team up for the future with (S91) D - Callum Gary Yannick Janser (1st overall) @Daniel Janser and (S91) D - Rin Kagamine (15th overall) @Rin late in the first round. These two prospects joined an already young developing core and have no helped push the Americans to two consecutive playoff appearances; which should continue to be the norm with one of the better, but smallest prospect pools. Add in (S92) C - Wayne Gretzky (OSL) @MubbleFubbles; who should be VHL ready next season and (S93) LW - Chris Reynolds Jr (OSL) @Crstats23; who will be VHL the following season allowing a steady stream of young prospect to continue to flow onto the teams’ roster. New York Americans are in a good place right now as they continue to improve!!
 
                                                                                                                                                                                                         
 

Number of Prospects:  6 1st Round Picks:  2 2nd Round Picks:  2 3rd Round Picks:  1 4th Round Pick:  0 Prospect in the VHL:  0 VHL Ready Prospects:  1 Inactive Prospects:  1  
 
Prospects      (S91) C - Spanish Moon Moth  @Renomitsu 4th (1st Round)  (S93) D - Chuck E Cheese (LVA) (VAS)  @a_Ferk 24th (2nd Round)  (S93) RW - Jack Dickins (MIS) (OSL)  @Mystery_boy98 28th (2nd Round)  (S91) RW - Elle Aura Ashe  @Lynersify Undrafted (S93) C - Charlie klepacki (HOU) (STO)  @chuck.hockey7 40th (3rd Round)  (S93) G - Ondrej Vencko  @Mutti 8th (1st Round)   
 
Grade: E (score: 45.83)  
Prague Phantoms look all but set to be heading into a rebuild with (S85) C - John Jameson @Frank, (S85) LW - Nikolas Kauppi @Tetricide and (S85) G - Matt Murdock @Acydburn retiring at the end of the season. Prague prospect pool isn`t the deepest or strongest but do have some key prospect in place with (S93) G - Ondrej Vencko @Mutti being the most important as he takes over the starting role from Murdock likely next season. Prague will look to build through what should be a deep draft this off season with four picks in the first two rounds; but they will need to really hit on their selections or they could be looking at a long rebuild. Another key prospect already in the VHL for the Phantom will be (S91) C - Spanish Moon Moth @Renomitsu as likely a key piece to build around. Prague is in for an interesting off season and draft but have put in enough effort to keep them from getting an F so far!!
 
                                                                                                                                                                                                         
 

Number of Prospects:  12 1st Round Picks:  5 2nd Round Picks:  1 3rd Round Picks:  5 4th Round Pick:  1 Prospect in the VHL:  2 VHL Ready Prospects:  1 Inactive Prospects:  1  
Prospects      (S92) LW - Kimi Raikkonen  @mattyIceman 9th (1st Round)  (S91) G - Red Panda @Lemorse7 8th (1st Round)  (S93) D - Lucy Leitner (VAS)  @LucyXpher 3rd (1st Round)  (S90) RW - Stefan Nikolaev (VAS) @Is_thatok 46th (3rd Round)  (S91) C - Dan jr (STO)  @Danzo 26th (2nd Round)  (S93) RW - Yermolai Nabokov (VAS)  @fonziGG 15th (1st Round)  (S91) D - Bric Sheithaus (COL)  @Oldhead91 38th (3rd Round)  (S91) C - Caesar Monterrey (BRA)  @CaptainGatsby 40th (3rd Round)  (S93) C - French Fries (SSK) (ROM)  @solyom 33rd (3rd Round)  (S93) D - Ray Stanton (HOU) (ROM)  @horoscope 16th (1st Round)  (S93) LW - Elf shoes (HOU) (COL)  @ELF_SH0ES 54th (4th Round)  (S93) C - Isaak Robinson (MIA) (ROM)  @isaak 38th (3rd Round)   
 
 
Grade: E (score: 47.08)  
End of an era in Riga as current GM @hedgehog337 will hand over the duties to a new manager at the end of the season; likely before this season draft. Hedge has done a good job collecting young roster just looking to breakout and collecting a steady stream of young talent that should give the new manager a few tools to help shape the team’s future. Three solid picks in the last three drafts (S91) G - Red Panda @Lemorse7, (S92) LW - Kimi Raikkonen @mattyIcemanand (S93) D - Lucy Leitner (VAS) @LucyXpher should make the team much better starting as soon as next season. All the other prospects are still another season or two away with eleven of the twelve prospects active tell you a lot about the scout effort put in by current so to be former management. Riga can afford to wait for these prospects to develop or use them to add pieces to improve the current roster moving forward since they have such a young roster. Add in two first round picks this season and they could really start to contend sooner than later; not to mention to see a strong prospect pool starting as soon as this season draft.
 
                                                                                                                                                                                                         
 

Number of Prospects:  10 1st Round Picks:  6 2nd Round Picks:  2 3rd Round Picks:  2 4th Round Pick:  0 Prospect in the VHL:  4 VHL Ready Prospects:  2 Inactive Prospects:  3  
Prospects      (S91) LW - Toby Kadachi  @ROOKIE745 14th (1st Round)  (S91) RW - Gustav Mattias  @Berocka 16th (1st Round)  (S91) D - Mina  @Baozi 12th (1st Round)  (S92) G - Giorgiy Costanzov @Mongoose87 5th (1st Round)  (S93) LW - Gianfranco Del Rocco (VAS)  @Victor 2nd (1st Round)  (S93) RW - Nathan Ecker (ROM)  @Nathan_8 10th (1st Round)  (S93) RW - Marek Nowaczyk (OTT) (OSL)  @Chillybro 34th (3rd Round)  (S92) LW - Alexis Laffayette (ROM) 
@DustyMclaren 21st (2nd round)  (S93) D - Enn Jinn (VAS)  @jhatty8 43rd (3rd Round)  (S92) C - Brent Pritchett  @Brent 30th (2nd Round)   
 
Grade: C (score: 61.50)  
The Seattle Bears are back after a strong S91 Draft that seen them select (S91) LW - Toby Kadachi @ROOKIE745, (S91) RW - Gustav Mattias @Berocka and acquiring (S91) D – Mina @Baoziin a trade; all playing in the VHL for the Bears. Mix in a few veteran players; acquired via UFA and at this season trade deadline; and the Bears won the North American Conference after starting the season as surprise team even fighting for a wildcard spot. With only one retiring player in (S85) RW - Henry Eagles @Greg_Di and two prospect ready to make their debut in the VHL next season in (S93) LW - Gianfranco Del Rocco (VAS) @Victorand (S93) RW - Nathan Ecker (ROM) @Nathan_8; the Bears will need to make a few rosters decision this off season to make room but that is always a nice situation to be in considering that Seattle should still be a contender next season. I haven`t even mentioed (S92) G - Giorgiy Costanzov @Mongoose87, the team goalie of the future who made his debut this season but could move into a back-up role to develop a bit longer behind (S86) G - Fuukka Rask @Jubis allowing the team to continue to contend without seeing a huge drop off. The VHL was hoping for a few season without being mauled by the Bears; yeah that won`t happen now!!
 
                                                                                                                                                                                                         
 

Number of Prospects:  6 1st Round Picks:  2 2nd Round Picks:  1 3rd Round Picks:  1 4th Round Pick:  2 Prospect in the VHL:  1 VHL Ready Prospects:  1 Inactive Prospects:  2  
Prospects      (S91) G - Toddly Bobbly @ToddlyBobbly 30th (2nd Round)  (S93) D - Gul Dukat (COL)  @MSouthworth 13th (1st Round)  (S92) LW - Wayne Shotzky (STO)  @Kenamatic 16th (1st Round)  (S93) D - Phil Taylor (OTT) (STO)  @Legacy 61st (4th Round)  (S91) RW - Kel Varnsen (OSL)  @JayF 36th (3rd Round)  (S91) C - Rory Sullivan  @Odette.Boudreaux 45th (4th Round)   
 
 
Grade: E (score: 40.00)  
Toronto Legion have been contender for the past few seasons now after winning the Continental Cup in S91 so it shouldn`t come as much of surprise that Toronto doesn`t have the deepest prospect pool in the league but they have some very key prospect with (S91) G - Toddly Bobbly @ToddlyBobbly learning this season as back-up to soon to retire (S86) G - Joel Castle @animal74 and Toronto will hope he is ready to take over the net in the next season or two. Bobbly has looked good in his fifteen starts this season with an 7-3-1 record 2.84ga and 0.910sav%. (S93) D - Gul Dukat (COL) @MSouthworth should add some nice youth to the blueline next season and strength the team backend. (S92) LW - Wayne Shotzky (STO) @Kenamaticand (S93) D - Phil Taylor (OTT) (STO) @Legacy are still a few season away from joining the big club. Toronto still look to be competive for a few more season but that will depend on Bobbly transition to the starting role.
 
                                                                                                                                                                                                         
 

Number of Prospects:  9 1st Round Picks:  7 2nd Round Picks:  1 3rd Round Picks:  1 4th Round Pick:  0 Prospect in the VHL:  6 VHL Ready Prospects:  1 Inactive Prospects:  2  
Prospects      (S92) RW - Logan Ninefingers  @Scurvy 1st (1st Round)  (S92) RW - Riley Martin  @Smarch 4th (1st Round)  (S92) D - Guntis Gavilrovs  @Girts 7th (1st Round)  (S92) D - Vlad Von Carstein  @Dom 6th (1st Round)  (S92) D - DB IV  @wcats 12th (1st Round)  (S91) G - Dalkr Vidarsson @KaleebtheMighty 9th (1st Round)  (S93) RW - Annie Oaks (COL)  @Noodle Enjoyer 4th (1st Round)  (S92) LW - Loic Trepagoat (ROM)  @Trepagoat 23rd (2nd Round)  (S91) RW - Demko (ROM)  @Demko 41st (3rd Round)   
 
Grade: B +  (score: 76.67)  
Vancouver Wolves have no problem selecting in the first round with seven of the nine prospects being selected in the first round of the past three drafts, with S92 Draft being a huge turning point in the teams rebuild; where they selected five players in the first round. All seven first round picks should be in the VHL as of next season when (S93) RW - Annie Oaks (COL) @Noodle Enjoyer joins the roster. Overall score for the Wolves was hurt by later round picks both as both are currently inactive otherwise this would have been the only team with an A grade. Luckily for Vancouver they have a chance to increase their overall prospect pool and prove that they can draft in later rounds with three 3rds round picks in this season draft; not to mention adding two more highly rated players as Vancouver will select twice in the top 6 again!! Ugh!! This team should be an interesting team to watch as they have the talent to contend sooner rather than later.
 
                                                                                                                                                                                                         
 

Number of Prospects:  14 1st Round Picks:  1 2nd Round Picks:  9 3rd Round Picks:  3 4th Round Pick:  1 Prospect in the VHL:  3 VHL Ready Prospects:  0 Inactive Prospects:  6  
Prospects      (S91) RW - Thor Reingaard  @N0HBDY 2nd (1st Round)  (S91) LW - Behrens Minion  @UnknownMinion 18th (2nd Round)  (S91) G - Pipo Popa @npuBeT 31st (2nd Round)  (S91) C - Jacob Smith Jr (VAS)  @jacobaa19 27th (2nd Round)  (S90) C - Aeschylus Jigglejawns CXXXVII II (BRA)  @.sniffuM 34th (3rd Round)  (S90) RW - Joseph Jec (STO)  @Joseph Jec 32nd (2nd Round)  (S90) LW - Jorji Costova  @Hybrid1486 31st (2nd Round)  (S93) D - Cody Toland (OTT) (COL)  @ctoland102 25th (2nd Round) (S91) RW - Dietrich Reingaard (ROM)  @JigglyGumballs 28th (2nd Round)  (S93) RW - Leon Bruhmaninho (SSK) (OSL)  @BigBruhman 41st (3rd Round)  (S91) LW - Aanarsi Reingaard (HFX) (VAS)  @Laine 33rd (3rd Round)  (S93) C - Gavin Bebard (MEX) (STO)  @Gavin Bebard 53rd (4th Round) (S92) LW - Commander Doom (LVA)  @Mech hi 29th (2nd Round)  (S92) D - John Season (HFX) (ROM)  @dylanjj37 28th (2nd Round)   
 
 
Grade: F (score: 30.36)  
With only one first round draft pick in the past three season in their current prospect pool you would think Warsaw has been a contender but sometimes things just don`t work out as planned; no matter how good they actually look on paper. Also, when I look at Warsaw this shows the state of the prospect pool and the league ability to generate top end talent more than Warsaw’s ability to draft. With nine second round picks you would think Warsaw has a decent prospect pool but it has been rather hit or miss. Four of the nine second round prospect have gone inactive, retired or have large stretches of inactivity. Warsaw actually has been rather unlucky. Warsaw is still a young and developing team; that really needs (S91) G - Pipo Popa @npuBeT to take over the starting role in a season or two from newly acquired (S86) G - Lachlan Summers @kirbithan. Warsaw will also look for (S91) LW - Behrens Minion @UnknownMinion to take a larger step forward along with the other prospects; who are still a few seasons away. (S91) C - Jacob Smith Jr (VAS) @jacobaa19 at the moment is the next prospect to likely make the Predators roster but that won`t be until S95 unless fast tracked.
 
 
Overall Ranking of Teams Prospect Pools:
Team name  Score  International  Grade Chicago Phoenix 78.33 B + Vancouver Wolves 76.67 B + New York Americans 75.00 B   Seattle Bears 61.50 C Moscow Menace 59.54 C Riga Reign  47.08 E Prague Phantoms 45.83 E D.C. Dragons 41.67 E HC Davos Dynamo  40.56 E Toronto Legion  40.00 E Malmo Nighthawks 37.86 F Helsinki Titans  30.77 F Warsaw Predators 30.36 F Calgary Wranglers 29.00 F Los Angeles Stars 28.57 F London United 12.50 F

Last week I ended this .com miniseries talking about Christoph Klose, the player who always fell just a hair behind Lord Karnage when it comes to individual recognition.
 
Next was Essian Ravenwing, the Welsh centerman. Similar to Casey Jones, who I will get to next, chemistry was hit and miss, but by the end of his career he got himself a Championship and had multiple 100+ point seasons, so not much to complain about there. My only regret is not having the time to fully flesh out his story, which I thought started super strong, with him being the descendent of the actual Prince of Wales.
 
Chemistry seemed to always be an issue with Casey Jones, where I roleplayed the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles character. He started his VHL career really strong, winning top defenseman and top rookie after a 100 point season, if I recall correctly, but kind of petered out after that.  
 
From there I went to The Terrible Trivium, who was the first ever selection by the London United, which is something I'm proud of. Triv was a roleplay of the Demon from "The Phantom Tollbooth", an excellent children's book full of tremendous puns. Unfortunately being on an expansion team limited his success, but he spent his whole career there and I'm glad he did.
 
Finally was Ryuji Sakamoto, a roleplay of the Persona 5 character. I intended him to be a physical fighter, a hothead with a bad attitude, but I also wanted him to be a useful defensive player. The jury's out on how that ended up.
 
As I wrap this up, it occurs to me that Ravenwing is the only "VHL Original" character I've done before Shevchenko. I hope Shev can live up to that standard, and maybe even achieve top billing.

Toronto Legion veteran Joel Castle became the first VHL goalie to reach 40 wins tonight after a 5-3 victory over the Moscow Menace reaching the milestone for the second time in his career. The last time Castle reached 40 wins was in S91, the year the Legion last won the Continental Cup. Castle hopes the milestone is a good omen.
 
“Obviously, we want to win every game but that’s impossible so to win as much as we have this season has been great. I haven’t been as sharp as I’ve wanted to be so most of the credit goes to the rest of the team as they’ve been scoring at a phenomenal rate.”
 
To Castle’s point, Toronto has been the league’s highest scoring team (249 GF) and is on pace to score the franchise’s most goals in a season since S81 with they poured in 279. They currently have four 40-goal scorers and could finish with five by the end of the season.
 
Castle’s 40th win also kept Toronto’s slim lead at the top of the VHL with 96 points, two ahead of the red-hot Malmo Nighthawks who have beaten Toronto handily in all four of their meetings this season and have a game in hand. The Nighthawks netminder, Ash Sparks @DarkSpyro, who led the league with 46 wins last season, is second in the VHL with 39 wins and it won’t be long before he get his 40th win as well. It will be a close race between the two former Geneva Rush teammates for not only the wins title but also the Victory Cup.

1. We are currently hanging on to the top spot overall in the VHL but a few teams are close behind. Can we hold on and capture our first Victory Cup since S67? I sure as fuck hope so. Been more of a slog the 2nd half of the year but I feel like we'll get back to what we were doing and hoist the cup this year.
2. We're on pace to have our best offensive season since S81 (279 GF). How many goals will we have by the end of the season? No earthly idea, let's go with 282
3. Which do you think will happen first in the VHL: The next 70-goal scorer or 100-assist scorer? 100 assist scorer. 100 is a cooler number.
4. If Toronto used a third color to accent the double blue jerseys, what color do you think would look good? Yellow! LFG
5. Diego Machado is on pace to become Toronto's first 50-goal scorer since Paul Atreides in S83. Will he make it and how many goals will he end up with? He will, and he'll blow through it, getting to 55 goals and doing the damn thing.
6. Which NHL playoff matchup intrigues you the most? Which matchup could you care less about? Boston Toronto should be a good one. Don't much care for Florida and Tampa.

1. We are currently hanging on to the top spot overall in the VHL but a few teams are close behind. Can we hold on and capture our first Victory Cup since S67?
I hope so - our squad seems to be jiving really well and we're rolling. If we just stay the way we are we should have no trouble at the Victory Cup.
2. We're on pace to have our best offensive season since S81 (279 GF). How many goals will we have by the end of the season?
I say we crush this and get in the 300s. Every game we have someone stepping up and dominating offensively. I believe this is the best offensive team in Legion history.
3. Which do you think will happen first in the VHL: The next 70-goal scorer or 100-assist scorer?
100 assists for sure. goal scoring is just so hard and there's a higher chance of getting an assist than a goal. 2nd assists can come pretty easy sometimes. With the right luck - 100 assists seems easy.
4. If Toronto used a third color to accent the double blue jerseys, what color do you think would look good?
Why not black? I think it would work well with the Legion and help pull away from matching the Helsinki color scheme. B
5. Diego Machado is on pace to become Toronto's first 50-goal scorer since Paul Atreides in S83. Will he make it and how many goals will he end up with?
Absolutely, he's rocking it and I'm going to guess 52.
6. Which NHL playoff matchup intrigues you the most? Which matchup could you care less about?
Panthers/Lightning because they are going to kill eachother and it should be high tempo  hockey. Probably Islanders Canes for most boring. I have the Isles upsetting though.

1. I think we can do it, but the real objective is to end the season with a win and the Renaissance Cup.
2. It will be very tough to score more than 279 goals this season, but it would be really nice to reach 280 goals.
3. I believe we are going to have to wait a long time before seeing either of them, but we are going to wee a 100-assist scorer before.
4. White or black, I don't see any other color that would look good on the jersey.
5. He will have to have a really good end of the season, but I think he can end up with 50 goals flush.
6. Boston vs Toronto is going to be a really fun matchup and even if I will watch the game anyway I think that the Rangers will eat the Capitals alive.

1. We are currently hanging on to the top spot overall in the VHL but a few teams are close behind. Can we hold on and capture our first Victory Cup since S67?  This spot is locked down, no one can compete with Toronto this season.  The team is too loaded to not clench it.  Its been a fantastic year and will see some amazing results this year.  Expect a lot of hardware!
 
 
2. We're on pace to have our best offensive season since S81 (279 GF). How many goals will we have by the end of the season? This is a stacked lineup that will blow teams away, we will easily finish over 300 goals, will we even have 400 Maybe! It might be possible!
 
 
3. Which do you think will happen first in the VHL: The next 70-goal scorer or 100-assist scorer? 100 assist most likely, coming from Toronto.  I won't allow that to happen against us so that's why will it be someone from Toronto.
 
 
4. If Toronto used a third color to accent the double blue jerseys, what color do you think would look good? I am a 90s kid and I light bright colors, how about we get weird and go with a neon or lime green.
 
 
5. Diego Machado is on pace to become Toronto's first 50-goal scorer since Paul Atreides in S83. Will he make it and how many goals will he end up with? He will easily get it, the question you should be asking yourself is how many hattricks will they end up with when they score over 60 goals?
 
 
6. Which NHL playoff matchup intrigues you the most? Which matchup could you care less about? I am excited about the battle of Florida, TB vs FLA.  May the Lightning reign supreme! BOS v TOR I could care less about, I am tired of hearing about the original 6.

Kobe Johnson was drafted 22nd overall by the Toronto Legion in S86 following a successful S85 in Las Vegas with the Aces. Johnson returned to Vegas the following season, and exploded offensively, making the jump from 23 to 94 points as a sophomore in the VHLM, and earning a promotion the following season to the VHLE's Geneva Rush. Johnson maintained steady offensive numbers in Geneva for three seasons from S87-89, posting point totals of 71, 86, and 86. For S90, Johnson was caught in the VHLE's roster shuffling after the contraction of 2 teams. That led to Johnson playing in Vasteras down the lineup, only amassing 16 points in the S90 season. In the following season, the opportunity presented itself to play up the lineup again, and Kobe responded with a 67 point season, coming close to averaging a point per game.
 
The S91 season would prove to be Johnson's last in the VHLE, as he got the call to come up to the VHL's Toronto Legion, where he spent the S92 posting 22 points (9 G, 13 A) in 72 games. That brings us to this season, where Johnson has already set new career highs in multiple statistical categories. In 55 games this season, Kobe has already tied last seasons goal total with 9, and has surpassed last seasons assist and point totals with 16 and 25 respectively. Johnson is also more involved offensively through shooting, having increased his shot total from 96 last season to 127 and counting this season. So far, new career bests have been set in assists, points, plus/minus, shots, and shot blocks. He is a goal away from a career best in the VHL, as well as being 2 game winning goals, 2 powerplay goals, and 8 hits away from besting those categories as well. These last 17 games being productive will go a long way to helping set highs in those categories as well.

VHL Centennial Rebrand

 
 
I think that there's a huge opportunity coming up to in the next few seasons to not only rebrand a team or two but to give the league a new look - a celebratory refresh if you will - for its 100th season. With all the changes that have happened over one hundred seasons, this is possibly a once in a lifetime opportunity to give the league a new look if only for a season and to celebrate it’s rich history, the seven original franchises that have been around for all 100 seasons, and the teams and players that have made the VHL what it is today.
 
Here are a few rebrands/refreshes I think should be considered for the league’s 100th anniversary:
 
League Logo 
I think that the league logo needs a “rebrand” for it’s centennial, something that incorporates “100” to celebrate it’s one hundred seasons (similar to what the NHL did) and to show the world that it’s one of the best and longest lasting sim leagues ever. Perhaps it could also incorporate the seven (or eight) original team logos in the centennial logo. 
 

The NHL's Centennial Logo
 
Original 7 Logos/Jerseys
I would like to see the seven remaining original franchises (Calgary Wranglers, Helsinki Titans, Seattle Bears, Toronto Legion, HC Davos Dynamo (Amstel/Avangard), New York Americans (Hamilton), and Riga Reign (Stockholm) get special centennial logos: either a refresh of the original logos, a part of the original logo in the relocated logo where applicable, or a completely new rebrand of the colors and logos for something new and fresh. Also, I think all team logos should have “100” in the logo. I also propose a graphic/banner for each franchise showing things like number of seasons, past logos, number of Cups and Conference titles, player stats leaders, etc. That way, a new member to the VHL or someone joining a team for the first time have a fantastic way of getting a quick snapshot of the team’s history at a glance.  
 
Portal Page/Web
Now this is where the VHL’s community could really show their talent. I propose a refresh of the portal and forum banners and have a contest where all who wish can submit a centennial banner and the winner (or Top 3?) get TPE. But we could use all of them and have the banners rotate on the pages (if that’s possible). The banners would need to pay homage to the VHL's rich history.
 
Awards
There isn’t a better time to unveil a new award or a rebranded award than during a centennial season. I know that they went through a renaming before, but with so much history and great players since then, it might be time for an award or two to be renamed. Maybe induct a special centennial member into the Hall of Fame? I’m not going to throw out too many ideas at the moment but just putting it out there for the general public to discuss.
 
In conclusion, I think the VHL needs to capitalize on S100 to bring in some new looks and bring back old memories to celebrate this league and all the people that have made it run. New visuals should help attract new members and would liven the place up a bit. Plus it would allow our talented community to showcase what they can do and make this centennial a season to remember!

To decide what franchise is most in need of a rebrand it makes the most sense to look at how old each team's logo is. After nearly a quarter-century of VHL seasons of teams slightly modifying and re-using existing logos from other leagues and sports, since S24 all logos have been original, some designed by the VHL's own graphics community, and most of the more recent ones being purchased from third-party designers. Quite a few continue to stand the test of time. Let's count them down.
 
S81: Riga

The newest logo in the VHL belongs to the Riga Reign who avoided a rebrand for nearly 60 seasons beforehand and are only on their third logo overall (all variations of the orange lion). I think this one got quite widespread approval and is certainly an upgrade on the previous version so it would be unlikely to be changed any time soon, even as a big change is about to take place in Riga's GM position.
 
S75: Calgary

Another long-awaited change to an old franchise's appearance took place just six seasons previously, as the beloved derp horse was retired after 50 seasons to make way for a more imposing stallion. The Wranglers have also only gone through three variations of the red horse and the current version is likely here to stay for a while.
 
S73 expansion teams: Chicago, Los Angeles, London, and Warsaw
S68 expansion teams: D.C. and Prague
S65 expansion team (Moscow) and S66 expansion team (Malmo)


                                                       
I am grouping all the expansion teams together (which is actually half of the league) for a specific reason: unlike the rest of the teams' logos, these were purchased using the league's donation money with the thought process that these were long-term investments and won't be replaced on a whim in the short-term. Of course, these expansion teams have all been around for at least 20 seasons now but as we have seen with Calgary and Riga above, and indeed many more examples to come, this is far from a long time in VHL terms. Just as importantly, these are actually a solid set of logos, most of which I think there is no great clamour to replace. The exceptions might be LA and London and purely on a personal level I think LA is the franchise most in need of a fresh start but I'll let someone else dive into that topic in more depth.
 
S53: Helsinki

The Titans aren't far off from being joint-oldest on this list as their logo change in S53 was only a cosmetic one really, polishing up and slightly recolouring the version they got in S24 when all teams rebranded to in-house made logos. However, given Helsinki did give themselves an uplift 30 seasons later, they fall in the midtable of this list. There's nothing that needs improving for them but maybe they'll want another small makeover in the near future.
 
S52: New York

The next three logos are a tale of how logo changes can sometimes seemingly alter history. The Americans had lots of success following the S24 rebrand and were arguably the league's most successful franchise in the following 30 seasons. However, just before their back-to-back championships of S52 and S53 they swapped to this logo and after that initial short-term success.... well you guys probably know most of the story. One finals appearance has followed in the 40 seasons since, so if there's any franchise that needs a rebrand just to dump their loser era it's New York.
 
S47: Toronto

In a similar vein to the Americans, the Legion's logo swap immediately led to threepeat, the first of its kind. It's been a bit of a rollercoaster since but Toronto's logo just seems to work for them and also harks back to the version they used in the league's first decades. In fact, the S47 rebrand replaced a very unpopular logo so this change was welcomed and despite being one of the oldest ones in use now, it doesn't feel like there is much clamour for change at the moment.
 
S44: Davos

Until the recent renaissance under Alex, this, even more than New York's, was the league's most cursed logo. The Dynamo were definitely the league's most successful franchise before S44 and then they just stopped being that. I also personally preferred the logo they replaced, although I am biased as I was the team's GM just 5 seasons previously. Davos has turned things around a bit now but it's the third-oldest logo in the league so I say get them to switch it up and leave that cup drought firmly in the past.
 
S31 expansion team: Quebec, now Vancouver

Funnily enough, given what I said about the “new” expansion franchises above, it seems to be the fate of expansion teams in the VHL that they are stuck with their logo for life. Cologne never replaced theirs and have been resurrected with in in the VHLE, the Quebec's was considered so good that it survived the move to Vancouver (more of a translation rather than a rebrand). In fact, not touching the logo was one of the conditions for the move being allowed to go through. It is still unique in being a logo designed by the team's GM, in this case founding GM Pavel Koradek. What has changed over time is that this is now the second-oldest logo in the league so perhaps popular opinion could be swayed towards a change. It is such a simple yet effective one though.

S24: Seattle

Fittingly, the oldest logo in the VHL is in Seattle, also home to the league's (soon to be by far) longest-serving GM. The Bears logo does predate Bana's reign (yes there was such a time) and is the only logo to survive from S24, when all eight franchises at the time got custom-made logos, having survived until then on versions ripped from existing teams. Seattle until then (ignoring their 1-season stint as the Everblades) had used the Hershey Bears logo, swapped to fairly similar one in S24 and haven't looked back since. Time for a change? Maybe under a new GM...
 

For this media I will be talking about teams from the VHL, VHLE and VHLM in regard to rebranding. Because I suck at making graphics, I will be doing this by simply talking about the team names and logos, not showing them.
 
1. VHLM. Miami Marauders- Miami Night. Personally, I've never seen a team simply named "night" so I'll explain why I chose this strange name. Miami is known for its night life and bright florescent lights. Their jerseys would include florescent lights and be flashy overall. I think an appropriate logo for this rebranding would be a pair of eyes glowing neon green. This would also give Miami the chance to really spice up their arena. Every time they scored a goal on home ice, the lights could go up with strobe lights coming down on the ice. I would recommend the goal song being club like music to increase the vibes even more. 
 
2. VHLE. Oslo Storm- Oslo Warriors. Whenever I think of Norway, I think of Vikings. How sick would it be to have a team from Norway with a logo of a big, bearded Viking. Instead of an axe or sword, this Viking could be wielding a hockey stick. Out of all the teams I am writing about in this article, the storm has my favorite branding, it's just too hard to pass up on rebranding this Norwegian team to something related to Vikings. 
 
3. VHL. Moscow Menace- Moscow Mafia. For some reason the two Ms in a row really scratch an itch in my brain. The Menace isn't a bad idea for a Moscow branded team, but I think the Mafia just sounds much cooler. Being the only Russian team in the VHL, I think the Mafia should have a red themed branding.
 
4. VHL. Riga Reign- Riga Bears. This is probably the most basic rebranding I would consider. Riga is host to lots of diverse wildlife, one of them being the Eurasian brown bear. While I don't have a problem with their current branding, Latvia has never been known much for their royal heritage and many of their royal families have German heritage. When it comes to the branding of teams, I like it when the branding ties into something that is related to the team's location. By naming them the bears this would give a nod to one of the most well recognized animals across all of Latvia.   
 
5. VHLM. Mexico City Kings- Mexico City Settlers. The name settlers are inspired by the Aztecs, who are deep rooted in the history of Mexico. Naming this team after the Aztec tribe would allow for much opportunity, when it comes to branding the team. The jerseys could have beautiful patterns and vibrant colors and the logo could have anything to do with the ancient tribe. When many people think of iconic hockey jerseys, the Coyotes jersey usually comes to mind. The Settlers could make a jersey similar to the Coyotes and I'm almost certain it would be a hit throughout the VHL world. 
 
Overall, I think the VHL branding is done well. Shoutout to everyone who's put time and effort into making the branding of this league so good!

Rebrand Theme Week
 
I've only been in the league for a little while now and so I don't have any strong ties anywhere just yet so coming up with a rebrand I thought might be hard for me. However there is a team that has an NHL counterpart that when they were coming into the league had a name pitched for them that I absolutely loved, and so for my rebrand choice I'm picking Las Vegas.
 
So say hello to the Las Vegas Rat Pack this name is just so sick to me, for a logo you could have gnarly looking rat in front of a poker chip. For the Colour scheme I think I would go with black and purple as the primary colours and as a mascot you'd have to get the best rat of all time: Brad Marchand, I guess you could put him in a rat suit but I think that would just be redundant. They would need to go out and find an appropriate coach to teach the players the way of the rat, maybe Marchand could pull double duty somehow, or get someone like Nick Cousins and have Marchand as an special advisor in practice.

Obviously the most important thing in practice would just be teaching and instilling the rat mentality into the players, showing the players the best way to get under opponents skin and how to sneak in cheap shots whenever possible. Of course we'd want them to be offensively talented too, Just look at our mascot He's and incredibly gifted player as well as maybe one of the top rats in hockey history.
 
As for the players they'd want to bring in, they would want players who can mix it up and force opponents off their game, and also then of course capitalize on the mistakes they make when they are too agitated to play their game. At all times the Rat Pack would need at least one player with high end rat qualities to captain the squad, someone who has grit, speed, and a thunderous body checking ability but also the mental capability to trash talk opponents in a way that can get the most level headed player see red. Make them make mistakes, rush them into bad passes or plays and also take retalliation penalties. Then once they do take advantage and don't miss the opportunities that present themselves.

Of course this is just a silly Idea and probably should never come to fruition, but even if you take out all the nonsense of forcing the roster to play like rats I think that Rat Pack is just such a sick name fo a team in Vegas. I don't know why but to me it just seems to fit, That being said Aces is still probably better for Vegas. But I'd be interested to see if any of the ideas submitted during this theme week get picked up and utilized in some way in the league. I've looked at a couple and some I think are really good and make a lot of sense.

1. As a team it has been great! Our offense has been firing on all cylinders. I just wish my stats were a bit better.
2. He'll tie Max Molholt at the end of next season and surpass him in his ninth season. The party should be humungous! 
3. Sure looks like it. One more to go.
4. Machado has been amazing all season. Going to go with him.
5. It means great stability for the franchise and the chance to be a contender for a while which is something the Legion haven't been for a while.
6. We only had about a 23% eclipse here. I went outside at the peak but didn't see any difference. Watched a couple videos of it live in Texas where it went completely dark which was crazy. My father-in-law went down there and said it was incredible.

VHL Centennial Rebrand

 
 
I think that there's a huge opportunity coming up to in the next few seasons to not only rebrand a team or two but to give the league a new look - a celebratory refresh if you will - for its 100th season. With all the changes that have happened over one hundred seasons, this is possibly a once in a lifetime opportunity to give the league a new look if only for a season and to celebrate it’s rich history, the seven original franchises that have been around for all 100 seasons, and the teams and players that have made the VHL what it is today.
 
Here are a few rebrands/refreshes I think should be considered for the league’s 100th anniversary:
 
League Logo 
I think that the league logo needs a “rebrand” for it’s centennial, something that incorporates “100” to celebrate it’s one hundred seasons (similar to what the NHL did) and to show the world that it’s one of the best and longest lasting sim leagues ever. Perhaps it could also incorporate the seven (or eight) original team logos in the centennial logo. 
 

The NHL's Centennial Logo
 
Original 7 Logos/Jerseys
I would like to see the seven remaining original franchises (Calgary Wranglers, Helsinki Titans, Seattle Bears, Toronto Legion, HC Davos Dynamo (Amstel/Avangard), New York Americans (Hamilton), and Riga Reign (Stockholm) get special centennial logos: either a refresh of the original logos, a part of the original logo in the relocated logo where applicable, or a completely new rebrand of the colors and logos for something new and fresh. Also, I think all team logos should have “100” in the logo. I also propose a graphic/banner for each franchise showing things like number of seasons, past logos, number of Cups and Conference titles, player stats leaders, etc. That way, a new member to the VHL or someone joining a team for the first time have a fantastic way of getting a quick snapshot of the team’s history at a glance.  
 
Portal Page/Web
Now this is where the VHL’s community could really show their talent. I propose a refresh of the portal and forum banners and have a contest where all who wish can submit a centennial banner and the winner (or Top 3?) get TPE. But we could use all of them and have the banners rotate on the pages (if that’s possible). The banners would need to pay homage to the VHL's rich history.
 
Awards
There isn’t a better time to unveil a new award or a rebranded award than during a centennial season. I know that they went through a renaming before, but with so much history and great players since then, it might be time for an award or two to be renamed. Maybe induct a special centennial member into the Hall of Fame? I’m not going to throw out too many ideas at the moment but just putting it out there for the general public to discuss.
 
In conclusion, I think the VHL needs to capitalize on S100 to bring in some new looks and bring back old memories to celebrate this league and all the people that have made it run. New visuals should help attract new members and would liven the place up a bit. Plus it would allow our talented community to showcase what they can do and make this centennial a season to remember!

VHL Centennial Rebrand

 
 
I think that there's a huge opportunity coming up to in the next few seasons to not only rebrand a team or two but to give the league a new look - a celebratory refresh if you will - for its 100th season. With all the changes that have happened over one hundred seasons, this is possibly a once in a lifetime opportunity to give the league a new look if only for a season and to celebrate it’s rich history, the seven original franchises that have been around for all 100 seasons, and the teams and players that have made the VHL what it is today.
 
Here are a few rebrands/refreshes I think should be considered for the league’s 100th anniversary:
 
League Logo 
I think that the league logo needs a “rebrand” for it’s centennial, something that incorporates “100” to celebrate it’s one hundred seasons (similar to what the NHL did) and to show the world that it’s one of the best and longest lasting sim leagues ever. Perhaps it could also incorporate the seven (or eight) original team logos in the centennial logo. 
 

The NHL's Centennial Logo
 
Original 7 Logos/Jerseys
I would like to see the seven remaining original franchises (Calgary Wranglers, Helsinki Titans, Seattle Bears, Toronto Legion, HC Davos Dynamo (Amstel/Avangard), New York Americans (Hamilton), and Riga Reign (Stockholm) get special centennial logos: either a refresh of the original logos, a part of the original logo in the relocated logo where applicable, or a completely new rebrand of the colors and logos for something new and fresh. Also, I think all team logos should have “100” in the logo. I also propose a graphic/banner for each franchise showing things like number of seasons, past logos, number of Cups and Conference titles, player stats leaders, etc. That way, a new member to the VHL or someone joining a team for the first time have a fantastic way of getting a quick snapshot of the team’s history at a glance.  
 
Portal Page/Web
Now this is where the VHL’s community could really show their talent. I propose a refresh of the portal and forum banners and have a contest where all who wish can submit a centennial banner and the winner (or Top 3?) get TPE. But we could use all of them and have the banners rotate on the pages (if that’s possible). The banners would need to pay homage to the VHL's rich history.
 
Awards
There isn’t a better time to unveil a new award or a rebranded award than during a centennial season. I know that they went through a renaming before, but with so much history and great players since then, it might be time for an award or two to be renamed. Maybe induct a special centennial member into the Hall of Fame? I’m not going to throw out too many ideas at the moment but just putting it out there for the general public to discuss.
 
In conclusion, I think the VHL needs to capitalize on S100 to bring in some new looks and bring back old memories to celebrate this league and all the people that have made it run. New visuals should help attract new members and would liven the place up a bit. Plus it would allow our talented community to showcase what they can do and make this centennial a season to remember!