BigBallerFromDownUnder

Helsinki’s Big Three S26-27 During the early seasons of the VHL, S26-27 Helsinki created a big three that was feared throughout the entire league. These three players Leeroy Jenkins, Pavel Koradek & Matthew Boragina combined to astound and stupefy both opponents and fans. These two seasons are to of the best in Helsinki’s history resulting in a myriad of highlights that have survived the ages and the capturing of the illusive cup. Season 25 – Pre dominance Season 25 was a shaky season for the Helsinki Titians while finishing outside the playoffs with a record of 35-30-7 fan and team moral was high due to the efforts of two players. Matthew Boragina and Pavel Koradek were the 1A 1B duo for the Titans, individually demonstrating top tier talent both players proved they can star apart but became better together. Through the Titans roster was generally considered shaky outside these top two players but due to the outstanding talent demonstrated by these players the Titans could win against any team in the league. When playing together is when these players reached their max potential both gathering over 100-point mark and through the help of Boragina Kordek was able to claim the Season 25 VHL MVP. Through the season wasn’t as successful as desired the team was in a good position moving forward. Season 26- Lighting the fire Helsinki’s GM knew the team had to improve for the team to claim the cup scouring the trade market the GM had to make sure the player would help complement and improve the current stars. Fortunately for history the perfect player was found Leeroy Jenkins the former teammate of Pavel Koradek, Jenkins was the perfect player to compliment the current stars together the trio put up 411 points making this season one of the best for a trio of stars, ff ranking lines all time this powerhouse line-up of three stars would right at the top. The titans finished with a record of 50-20-2 the best record the Titans had achieved in recent memory. Falling short of the claiming the cup the team knew they had to do better. Season 27 – A blaze of glory Helsinki came into this VHL season with a mission. Claim the cup! Helsinski roster looked very strong this season headlined by its three stars, players Leeroy Jenkins, Pavel Koradek & Matthew Boragina. Excellent play all season lead the Titans to a 52-17-3 record the stars made 395 points. The dominant play of the titans leads finishing top of the Euro conference but only second in the VH. An impressive title run vanquishing a foe in the final many thought they could not beat the Titans finally claimed the Cup! The title for this section is fitting due to the total collapse of the Titans after this season finishing with a record of 19-50-3. Truly this trio was a blaze of glory for the Titans excellent play of the two seasons by the trio resulted in 403 points per season and a cup title leaving the team with a legacy never to be forgotten. Big shout out to the players mentioned @Squinty @Koradek @Boragina Words 508

Thanks for the shout out man! @fonziGG Has an eye for talent.

Q: Your high-level play has caused your name to shoot up draft boards, what are your thoughts about your future in the VHL systems? A: Really, I try to ignore all the white noise, yes, it’s always nice to look forward to the great things in the future but doing that risks missing the amazing opportunity and moments in the present. Right now, I’m focusing on what I can do at Halifax I think we have a really talented core and we can make a strong push in the playoffs. Of course, I am very proud that the hard work I’m putting in is being recognised but I’m prouder of that hard work more so then the acknowledgment. Q: What are your thoughts about your draft competition? A: Last time I saw I think I was ranked sixteenth or so, I’m always looking at my rivals trying to learn from them and improve as a player. Every time I see a player that is better than me I am always mimicking what they do improve. Through doing this I hope to constantly improve as a player and those rankings aren’t my priority moving up those rankings wouldn’t hurt considering future options.

1. If you could move the Halifax 21st to any city of your choice where would that be? A: Crazy choice would be Melbourne I miss home, more realistic would be Oakland that would be pretty cool. 2. Do you have any preference at all when it comes to hockey equipment manufacturer? A: Not really I play with what I'm given. 3. Who are you rooting for at the upcoming World Junior Championships? Why? A: Being named to Team World, definitely World. 4. Do you drink coffee? What do you take in it? A: No I don't drink coffee, I'm more of a tea person. 5. If you were placed in a game like The Hunger Games (think Fortnite) in real life, do you think you could win the game? Would you have what it takes to take out your competition? A: I like shooting goals but I'm terrified of actually hurting people, I just wouldn't be able to do it. 6. Who do you think is the strangest person in our locker room? A: Probably the GM @fonziGG great dude, but somethings he says are kind of strange.

Breaking News: Halifax deals for Mexico City Star October 6th was a day of shake up for the VHML, 3 separate trades occurred one of these was the trade by Halifax to bring in star player Ryan Busser. The Halifax GM is a manger known for his trading, always looking to improve the talent of his roster. This trade didn’t have much ceremony and broke as the last trade, showing the professionalism of both teams as no transfer info was leaked to the press. The Trade Breaking down the trade Halifax swapped two future picks for the services of Ryan Busser, this move singles a clear win now attitude and a focus on brining in proven talent. Halifax so far has gone through a lack lustre season by looking to bring in talent Halifax GM is clearly making a push for the playoffs. By righting the ship and making the playoffs Halifax looks to become a more respected team increasing chances of mid-season singings and build interest from fans. The Player Breaking down the player Ryan Busser, assigned back down to the VHML after being drafted 29th in the previous season draft. Standing at 5’ 8: and 172lb Ryan plays on the RW and slots in to the current Halifax squad very nicely creating extra depth while taking over the 1st line RW. Ryan comes with praise from both his previous teams both coaches of San Diego and Mexico City rave about the performance of Ryan during training acting as a strong foundation for team success, always a gym rat Halifax made this deal looking to bring in a player of this activity. The Outcome The purpose of this trade is obvious for both teams, Mexico City felt they no longer needed the services of Ryan as they felt they had enough talent and wanted to secure future talent. Halifax perspective might come out to be short sighted as they trade future assets to bring in a current player. Halifax will obviously look to make the playoffs after this trade while Mexico City will continue with the current players while looking towards the future. Press Responses: GM of the Halifax 21st @fonziGG was happy with the move quote: “Let’s go! He’s going to be huge force on our first, everyone works hard and we will be looking very strong. Ryan Busser will be an absolute star for this team and I’m very proud to have him on my team. Ben Storm fellow Halifax player: “I feel like we had some instant chemistry and have become fast friends of the ice, on the ice we are a dynamic duo when we share the puck. He is an absolute monster player and is the kind of experience this team needed.” Ryan Busser @diacopeTwitter release Firstly, I would like to thank the players, the staff and most importantly the fans of Mexico City, I have enjoyed my time here immensely and gave grown so much under your tutelage. To the fans of Halifax be prepared I'm excited to help propel Halifax to higher levels. 510 words

Name: Ben Storm Team: Halifax 21st Player Number: 1 Render Choice: Alexander Ovechkin Are you S69?: Yes!

+10 Ben Storm

+4

1. Halifax has had a very solid season thus far and sits fifth in the league through 34 games. Our offense is second best in the league (127 goals for) but our defense has been a big problem and has us seventh in the league (119 goals against). Would you like us to try and add some better defensive personnel or do you think it is a tactics issue? A: I think you always have to come from the perspective of maximising what you got, And we have a lot here at Halifax and I think we can lock in on the defensive end. If we need more help I'm sure the staff will make the right decision. 2. With that said Halifax veteran β-MOS G1 has recently lost his job to newcomer Bruce Theodore. While Theodore has put up much better stats in his five starts are you going to miss β-MOS G1 at all? A: Theodore is a great locker room presence and I'm super excited to work with him. 3. There is a team reunion dinner that includes some alumni scheduled for this weekend. The invitation says it is a potluck. What are you bringing for the team? A: Australian version: I'll have to bring out my BBQ and cook up some snags for the bios. English: I think ill cook some sausages to share with my teammates. 4. If the dream of playing professional hockey for a living hadn’t worked out where do you think you’d be right now? A: I think I would be getting ready to go to university in Melbourne. 5. We have been on a heater as of late going 7-3 in our last 10. Has anyone’s play over that stretch really caught your eye and impressed you? A:Passerelli, he scores with the best of them and everyday is a learning experience with him. 6. Tell us a fun fact about yourself. We are all about getting to know our guys around the locker room better and this is a good place to start with some fresh faces around here. A: I'm a huge fan of Pokémon Mystery dungeon video game series, on a long road trip I love to just play to relax and let my worries was away.

890

*shocked pikachu face* why thank you!

Q: Firstly I’d like to congratulate you for a strong game on the ice, 1 goal and 1 assist, is this the kind of production we can except for you? A: Thank you, honestly I think it comes down to time and opportunity and luckily I have a franchise willing to give me that time and opportunity. This is what ill do in the future and get even better. Q: We are a long way from Australia, any thoughts on how this distance affects you and players similar to you? A: It is very hard, going from one day having the constant support of you family to not is ground-shaking. Halifax staff are obviously helpful but they can never replace what family did. But I’m confident that the others and myself are still the best hockey players in the world and we play like it. Q: Ill let you get back to your team now but could you give me a little quote about Halifax’s future? A: We are hungry and willing fight for it, we can bring in the kill we just have to eat it. There is no reason why we can’t be number 1

Shining a spotlight on the Halifax players responsible for scoring the most goals this season. Halifax is looking to male a strong push moving into the middle of the season, prolific scoring is needed to keep the teams energy up and make a playoff push. Emil Passerelli Emil is a strong candidate for the best player on the team, through 29 games Emil has scored 20 goals leading the team. Emil’s best season saw him scoring 43 goals to surpass this mark over the next 43 games Emil would have to average a goal every two games. For a player as good as Emil this mark is achievable leading to Emil’s greatest scoring season in the VHML. Anecdotally players rave about how good of a leader Emil is in the locker-room, looking forward in Emil’s career VHL entry is guaranteed and will be looking to carry scoring prowess to that level. Benson Kramer Benson Kramer was named as an assistant captain on the team, his reputation as an outspoken leader precedes him. Through 29 games Benson has surged to 16 goals a solid second option Benson has been a star for this team. Benson is in the middle of his highest scoring season his 16 goals coming in clear of his past mark of 7 goals. Benson scoring is actually his secondary goal; Benson lives to assist his teammates coming in with a strong 22 assist. Players like Benson aren’t common and having a player of Benson’s talent is a major plus for Halifax. Anton Edvin Anton Edvin is a no fun all business kind of person, serving as a calming presence for the Halifax roster Anton has experience and is always looking out for his less experienced teammates. Anton has scored 14 goals this season. To surpass his highest scoring season Anton would have to score 24 goals over the next 43 goal meaning. Anton as a player focuses on both sides of the playing great offense and defence. Anton is looking to create a strong foundation before moving onto the next stage of his career. Liam Rooney Liam Rooney is an amazing player, after a strong rookie season in season 67 Liam has played strong hockey in both the VHML and the VHL. Liam has scored 12 goals already surpassing his rookie season, but learning under the great Benson Kramer assisting his team mates is Liam’s number one priority. Leading the team in assist Liam is a wizard with the puck always finding the open teammate, Liam is a strong player with a very high upside It is clear that Liam is going to be a VHl superstar. Halifax is sitting at a strong fifth in the standings with a strong 18 wins Halifax will be looking to focus on stringing together some wins moving into the middle of the season. Along with having a strong current core Halifax is always looking to bring in the next superstar. Halifax is all about offence the second highest scoring team with a prolific 112 goals only behind Las Vegas’s 113. Halifax follows the principle that offence is the best defence but unfortunately this isn’t always true as after allowing 107 goals Halifax only has a differential of 5 which ranks them fifth. Moving forward Halifax will look to sure up this defence allowing them to make a push for the playoffs. Word 567 claiming 23-29

Early life Ben Storm was born in the Royal Melbourne Hospital in Australia surrounded by his close family notably his mother Charlotte and Tony his father. Growing in Melbourne’s suburbs Ben was a mischievous kid always full of energy and joy. Ben spent a lot of time on his bike riding through Melbourne streets with his friends looking for the next adventure. During primary school Ben did what every Australian boy does, play cricket and footie, (Australian Rules Football for the none Australians reading). Ben and his mates spent countless school lunches playing football until they could join their Sunday club matches; Ben excelled at these sports a natural athlete quickly proving himself to be above the age competition but one problem emerged Ben was phenomenal at AFL but he never loved it. High School – The Beginning In Australia AFL is the biggest sport, it’s the centre of Australia’s universe and Ben was a star, leading his high school to the national championship and his club had the best record in Victoria. While playing in a routine training scrimmage Ben went up for a signature high-flying mark as normal, but things went horribly wrong as a teammate knocked his leg out from under him. Ben fell hand on his right leg, a sickening snap came from as teammates ran over surrounding Ben on the grassy oval, Ben lied on the ground an intense radiating pain from his leg. Coaches came over with stretcher and took Ben to the emergency department. It wasn’t long until everyone knew Ben had torn his ACL. Ben is a dedicated athlete he wanted to return to the field in the best form of his life, Ben spent countless hours in the gym, on one of these hours in the early morning the clerk watched the tv mounted on the wall, engrossed on the game on screen. Ben looked over to see what the fuss was about, on the bright screen appeared the VHL logo as players danced across the ice. Ben knew Ice Hockey was a sport obviously, but he hadn’t seen it played, he was instantly memorised players glided over the ice the puck whizzing in all direction Ben was instantly hooked he knew that once he was healthy, he wanted to play ice hockey at the highest level. High School – The Return The time came and Ben returned to sport just as explosive as ever, try as he might ice hockey isn’t a widely available sport in Australia, his only option was playing field hockey. Ben quickly too a handle to the sport Ben used his natural athletics to excel at field hockey quickly raising is renown at a state level Ben was selected to the Victorian State team. It was at this national competition that Ben met the man that would change his life. After Ben lead the Victorian team to a victory over the South Australian , he was approached by an old man wearing a green jumpsuit a gold kangaroo emblazed on it “Ben my name is Oliver Rose, I’m the coach of the Australian Junior National Team, and I’m the chairman of the Melbourne Victory Ice Hockey league, I am wondering if you would be interested in joining a team?”. Ben spent the last two years of high school doing two things, training and skating. Ben’s high school career came to an end as he hopped aboard a flight to joining his Melbourne Victory Hockey league team or commonly referred to MVHL One Year From Draft- MVHL Journey After finishing high school Ben became a pro MVHL player developing into a well-rounded scorer as Ben became one of the best players in the MVHL. Things were going so well it was only a certain amount of time until things went wrong. Ben played an amazing season in the MVHL leading his team to the best record in the league and the Rookie of the year award. Looking into the playoffs as the top seed people were confident that Ben would deliver. But at this time tragedy struck Ben’s father passed away from pancreatic cancer. Ben racked with emotion struggled to find the motivation to play but Ben took the ice anyway. It was clear things weren’t right as Ben looked sluggish with his play. Late in the third quarter Ben was checked by the opposing player when Ben got up, he left the ice and didn’t return. Ben’s team lost the game in a blowout, the crowd that once adored him now booed him. Headlines the next day read: “Australian prince of the ice became the latest disaster”, “Reported Storm has turned into more of a light breeze”. This wasn’t necessarily true but that didn’t matter in the media it had already spread like wild fire. Storm was at a loss more alone than ever before. His contract had run out and all this VHML hype had puttered out. At a loss Ben reached for his phone to search for his new VHML contract when he received a call. This call was from saved number, Oliver Rose reached out to help when Storm was lost again. “Good Morning Ben, glad I could get a hold of you I’m calling to offer you a spot on the Australian National Junior Ice Hockey team I will be coaching this winter, would you be interested?” “Are you serious? Yes, I’m interested!” “Excellent you’re one the best junior players in the world right now and you are going to show the world” Show it Ben did, before the tournament Ben played in three friendly matches against continual opponents. Every place he went he was slammed with boos; headlines smeared his character before he got on the ice. The papers back home wrote smearing reports questing his effort, you see that was the only thing you could question about Ben because his talent was obvious. Ben was lighting up the international opponents leading to Australia to an undefeated record, The Australian Junior National team moved into the top ten in power rankings for the first time in history. This brings Ben to now patiently waiting to be drafted. Ben had two goals be the best player in the VHML and bring Australia to glory. But most importantly he wanted to earn the love of his homeland again.

oops @Renomitsu, You can make your pick now I think

F - Mikko Aaltonen @Renomitsu

Going in I was very excited with the improvement’s the GM had made to the team I was hoping for a strong three games to facilitate the additions. Unfortunately, we went for an uneventful one win two loses. To me this was one of those fixtures that could have gone either way, it ended up 1-3 but could have been 3-0 if the puck just bounced our way a little more. For me the games were uneventful at best, coming of a sprained knee I saw limited minutes trying to reacclimate to the VHML; when I get healthy again, I’m looking forward to doing big things for his Halifax squad. Learning from my teammates is something I put a lot of value into and one of those teammates for me is Benson Kramer, he also plays on the right wing so he serves as a great mentor to learn and develop under, he Is also a great locker room presence and is a large part of the culture we are building at Halifax; I hope to use the skills I have learnt from him I hope to make a big impact in my pro career and be valued leader in my locker room.

1. Our fearless leader @fonziGG has announced that we will be making some changes to our locker room this week to bring it back to its once glorious self. Is there anything you would like to see stick around that is currently in the locker room? A: We have a pretty light hearted locker room and that’s the kind of atmosphere I like to be apart of so I hope we can keep that around. 2. To much the same point as the question above is there anything you would like to see changed or added within our current locker room? Maybe something you have seen somewhere else that seemed to work? A: Sometimes it’s annoying but having a bot telling me to update is actually really helpful. Shout outs to the weeks top of earners maybe? 3. Where did your choice of jersey number come from? My player wears 94 for Leafs’ legend Sergei Berezin. What about you? A: To be completely honest I just picked a number, can some remind me what my number actually is? 4. Have the staff at the Halifax 21st been as helpful to you as you believe they should have been? Have they provided you with all of the information you think you require? A: Absolutely, they are super helpful. I am very lucky to have been drafted into a environment I can grow as a player. 5. Is there any particular player on our team that you think could go on to have the best VHL career? A: We has such a special group of players, I see every player here having an amazing career. I really hope for us to meet up in the future and can play together in the VHL. 6. Do you agree with the choices for captains for the squad? Would you like to see a change in the way we select our captains in the future? A: Well as one the assistant captains I can’t complain. I think the captains just have to be the players that’s are really putting in the effort.

G- Michael Johnson @Rayzor_7 Now we are really moving @TheLastOlympian07 Pick pending

F-Julian Borwinn @Renomitsu Your Turn @TheLastOlympian07 12H

823 - @Matt_O you might right, accept me I am an outlier

796

754

D- Denver Wolfe @Rayzor_7

D- Smitty Werbenjagermanjensen @Renomitsu