Kingma

Kyle Kingma- Bratislava
Forward
Points
+/-

SEASON 41 VHL ENTRY DRAFT BIG BOARD
 

 
Some of the Season 41 draftees are starting to take advantage of their achievement tracker which is having an impact for the first round projections. Again, it appears the last few picks in the first and a first few in the second rounds will be the toss ups. As promised, this edition will break down the projected top ten picks.
 
10
Kyle Kingma, RW
Projected VHL Club: New York Americans
VHLM Club: Bern Royals
GP: 48 G: 21 A: 26 PTS: 47
 
Kingma really burst onto the scene during Season 40. Identified to be a strong power forward, Kingma shows a great upside and has been putting in many practice hours to prove himself worthy of a first round selection. What might be most impressive about Kingma is that he is a first gen waiver claim (i.e. no carryover TPE and no post trade deadline TPE gains). He's been working hard, and sources are telling me that he may in fact go higher than tenth. Teams may be taking chances if they are hoping he falls into the second round. I just don't see that happening.
 
9
Borje Samuelsson, D
Projected VHL Club: Davos HC Dynamo
VHLM Club: Saskatoon Wild
GP: 73 G:20 A: 78 PTS: 98
 
Samuelsson is a big Swedish defenceman at 6'7, 235 lbs who has high mobility. Samuelsson is a quarterbacking type defenceman who can make strong outlet passes and use his size to his advantage. Borje is one of many defencemen projected to be taken in the first round. Taking this into consideration, a strong interview and personal workout with teams could land him higher than the ninth spot.  
 
8
Jakob Ackerman, D
Projected VHL Club: Seattle Bears
VHLM Club: Minot Gladiators
GP: 72 G:11 A: 47 PTS: 58
 
Being a native Seatteite, Ackerman would definitely like to play for his hometown team. He may get that chance if the Bears elect to take a defenceman at eighth rather than a much needed winger. Ackerman is a smooth skater with a heavy pass. He controls the puck well and is a powerplay specialist. Ackerman shows potential to work on his defensive game, but he's actually been transitioning to more of an offensive type skillset. Ackerman should be thought of as an athlete in this draft, and can be molded into whatever his team asks of him. That's something special.
 
 
7
Fedir Okranitz, G
Projected VHL Club: Toronto Legion
VHLM Club: Yukon Rush
GP: 69 W: 21 L: 40 GAA: 4.26
 
Okranitz is the second ranked goaltender in this draft class. Goalies who can train hard and make a name for themselves can do well at the next level (or at the very least be drafted high). Okranitz may see his named call early in this draft due to his position and the needs of the Toronto Legion. Fedir shows some promise, and would be a safe pick at this spot if his dedication to improvement can be verified.
 
 
6
Jakub Rhinehart, D
Projected VHL Club: Helsinki Titans
VHLM Club: Saskatoon Wild
 
GP: 64 G:1 A: 14 PTS: 15
 
Jakub Rhinehart is a heavy hitting defensive player with a great shot. But that's about it. Rhinehart hasn't been working on his passing game and needs to work on the fundamentals. Rhinehart might be able to transition into any system, but teams might see it a little risky to select Rhinehart so early in the draft. He may develop into a powerhouse, but he has not been putting in the work he needs to prove his dedication to development.
 
 
 5
Gifford Shock, C
Projected VHL Club: Davos HC Dynamo
VHLM Club: Bratislava Watchmen
GP: 72 G:18 A: 29 PTS: 47
 
Gifford Shock is a well-rounded gritty centerman that can get the job done. Shock played a supporting role this past year with the Watchmen and was an excellent team player. Shock appears to be able to develop into any role his draft team will need with his widespread skillset.
 
 
 4
Rift Pajodcast, C
Projected VHL Club: Stockholm Vikings
VHLM Club: Minot Gladiators
GP: 72 G:22 A: 52 PTS: 74
 
Pajodcast is a faceoff phenom and a skilled two-way forward. Rift may transition into a defensive role later in his career, but if can improve his scoring abilities, he could blossom into a great talent. It seems as if he has spent a lot of time working on his defensive game recently and any club wanting to draft him should be aware of his intentions. 
 
 
3
Teuvo Ruutu, D
Projected VHL Club: Davos HC Dynamo
VHLM Club: Minot Gladiators
GP: 72 G:17 A: 86 PTS: 103
 
Ruutu is a sure pick early in this draft. He is committed to becoming a great defenceman and would likely develop quickly to get on the VHL ice as soon as possible. Ruutu benefited this past year by having scoring talent on his line. Ruuto is a solid blueliner and powerplay specialist.
 
 
 2
Jack Kowalski, D
Projected VHL Club: Stockholm Vikings
VHLM Club: Oslo Storm
GP: 72 G:14 A: 56 PTS: 70
 
Kowalski will certainly become a great defenceman throughout his career. Perhaps a hall of famer. He's an imposing force on the back end and can lay the body down consistently. Kowalski takes the body hard, but can also help out in the offensive game. He's a definite top two pick, and in most drafts, would be a sure first overall selection.
 
 
1
Niklaus Mikaelson, G
Projected VHL Club: Seattle Bears
VHLM Club: Oslo Storm
GP: 72 W: 60 L: 9 GAA: 2.11
 
What can I say? Mikaelson is one of the top rated goaltenders in history and Seattle is primed to rebuild from the goal out. The Bears will be getting a sure hall of famer in Mikaelson and I think everyone looks forward to seeing how his career will pan out. Just shy of 300 practice hours, Niklaus has a great skillset to have an immediate impact. He has a long career ahead of him, and I think he's by far the strongest prospect in this class.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Welcome to the VHL Twelve Days
of Christmas Version 2!

 
Just kidding, last years Santa had to take a leave of absence due to post traumatic stress disorder after you all complained about his 12 Days of Christmas game.
 
Merry Christmas* and of course Happy Festivus*. You are entitled to a free doubles week if you believe you were a good behaving member of the league this year.
 
Like this post to claim your free doubles week for the week of Dec. 22-28.
(12 free TPE instead of doing a point task, 13 for mag writers)
*Insert your own belief here

Ottawa claims E'Twaun Delicious.

Ottawa claims Moriarty.

SEASON 41 VHL ENTRY DRAFT BIG BOARD
 

 
Some of the Season 41 draftees are starting to take advantage of their achievement tracker which is having an impact for the first round projections. Again, it appears the last few picks in the first and a first few in the second rounds will be the toss ups. As promised, this edition will break down the projected top ten picks.
 
10
Kyle Kingma, RW
Projected VHL Club: New York Americans
VHLM Club: Bern Royals
GP: 48 G: 21 A: 26 PTS: 47
 
Kingma really burst onto the scene during Season 40. Identified to be a strong power forward, Kingma shows a great upside and has been putting in many practice hours to prove himself worthy of a first round selection. What might be most impressive about Kingma is that he is a first gen waiver claim (i.e. no carryover TPE and no post trade deadline TPE gains). He's been working hard, and sources are telling me that he may in fact go higher than tenth. Teams may be taking chances if they are hoping he falls into the second round. I just don't see that happening.
 
9
Borje Samuelsson, D
Projected VHL Club: Davos HC Dynamo
VHLM Club: Saskatoon Wild
GP: 73 G:20 A: 78 PTS: 98
 
Samuelsson is a big Swedish defenceman at 6'7, 235 lbs who has high mobility. Samuelsson is a quarterbacking type defenceman who can make strong outlet passes and use his size to his advantage. Borje is one of many defencemen projected to be taken in the first round. Taking this into consideration, a strong interview and personal workout with teams could land him higher than the ninth spot.  
 
8
Jakob Ackerman, D
Projected VHL Club: Seattle Bears
VHLM Club: Minot Gladiators
GP: 72 G:11 A: 47 PTS: 58
 
Being a native Seatteite, Ackerman would definitely like to play for his hometown team. He may get that chance if the Bears elect to take a defenceman at eighth rather than a much needed winger. Ackerman is a smooth skater with a heavy pass. He controls the puck well and is a powerplay specialist. Ackerman shows potential to work on his defensive game, but he's actually been transitioning to more of an offensive type skillset. Ackerman should be thought of as an athlete in this draft, and can be molded into whatever his team asks of him. That's something special.
 
 
7
Fedir Okranitz, G
Projected VHL Club: Toronto Legion
VHLM Club: Yukon Rush
GP: 69 W: 21 L: 40 GAA: 4.26
 
Okranitz is the second ranked goaltender in this draft class. Goalies who can train hard and make a name for themselves can do well at the next level (or at the very least be drafted high). Okranitz may see his named call early in this draft due to his position and the needs of the Toronto Legion. Fedir shows some promise, and would be a safe pick at this spot if his dedication to improvement can be verified.
 
 
6
Jakub Rhinehart, D
Projected VHL Club: Helsinki Titans
VHLM Club: Saskatoon Wild
 
GP: 64 G:1 A: 14 PTS: 15
 
Jakub Rhinehart is a heavy hitting defensive player with a great shot. But that's about it. Rhinehart hasn't been working on his passing game and needs to work on the fundamentals. Rhinehart might be able to transition into any system, but teams might see it a little risky to select Rhinehart so early in the draft. He may develop into a powerhouse, but he has not been putting in the work he needs to prove his dedication to development.
 
 
 5
Gifford Shock, C
Projected VHL Club: Davos HC Dynamo
VHLM Club: Bratislava Watchmen
GP: 72 G:18 A: 29 PTS: 47
 
Gifford Shock is a well-rounded gritty centerman that can get the job done. Shock played a supporting role this past year with the Watchmen and was an excellent team player. Shock appears to be able to develop into any role his draft team will need with his widespread skillset.
 
 
 4
Rift Pajodcast, C
Projected VHL Club: Stockholm Vikings
VHLM Club: Minot Gladiators
GP: 72 G:22 A: 52 PTS: 74
 
Pajodcast is a faceoff phenom and a skilled two-way forward. Rift may transition into a defensive role later in his career, but if can improve his scoring abilities, he could blossom into a great talent. It seems as if he has spent a lot of time working on his defensive game recently and any club wanting to draft him should be aware of his intentions. 
 
 
3
Teuvo Ruutu, D
Projected VHL Club: Davos HC Dynamo
VHLM Club: Minot Gladiators
GP: 72 G:17 A: 86 PTS: 103
 
Ruutu is a sure pick early in this draft. He is committed to becoming a great defenceman and would likely develop quickly to get on the VHL ice as soon as possible. Ruutu benefited this past year by having scoring talent on his line. Ruuto is a solid blueliner and powerplay specialist.
 
 
 2
Jack Kowalski, D
Projected VHL Club: Stockholm Vikings
VHLM Club: Oslo Storm
GP: 72 G:14 A: 56 PTS: 70
 
Kowalski will certainly become a great defenceman throughout his career. Perhaps a hall of famer. He's an imposing force on the back end and can lay the body down consistently. Kowalski takes the body hard, but can also help out in the offensive game. He's a definite top two pick, and in most drafts, would be a sure first overall selection.
 
 
1
Niklaus Mikaelson, G
Projected VHL Club: Seattle Bears
VHLM Club: Oslo Storm
GP: 72 W: 60 L: 9 GAA: 2.11
 
What can I say? Mikaelson is one of the top rated goaltenders in history and Seattle is primed to rebuild from the goal out. The Bears will be getting a sure hall of famer in Mikaelson and I think everyone looks forward to seeing how his career will pan out. Just shy of 300 practice hours, Niklaus has a great skillset to have an immediate impact. He has a long career ahead of him, and I think he's by far the strongest prospect in this class.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

SEASON 41 VHL ENTRY DRAFT BIG BOARD
 

 
Some of the Season 41 draftees are starting to take advantage of their achievement tracker which is having an impact for the first round projections. Again, it appears the last few picks in the first and a first few in the second rounds will be the toss ups. As promised, this edition will break down the projected top ten picks.
 
10
Kyle Kingma, RW
Projected VHL Club: New York Americans
VHLM Club: Bern Royals
GP: 48 G: 21 A: 26 PTS: 47
 
Kingma really burst onto the scene during Season 40. Identified to be a strong power forward, Kingma shows a great upside and has been putting in many practice hours to prove himself worthy of a first round selection. What might be most impressive about Kingma is that he is a first gen waiver claim (i.e. no carryover TPE and no post trade deadline TPE gains). He's been working hard, and sources are telling me that he may in fact go higher than tenth. Teams may be taking chances if they are hoping he falls into the second round. I just don't see that happening.
 
9
Borje Samuelsson, D
Projected VHL Club: Davos HC Dynamo
VHLM Club: Saskatoon Wild
GP: 73 G:20 A: 78 PTS: 98
 
Samuelsson is a big Swedish defenceman at 6'7, 235 lbs who has high mobility. Samuelsson is a quarterbacking type defenceman who can make strong outlet passes and use his size to his advantage. Borje is one of many defencemen projected to be taken in the first round. Taking this into consideration, a strong interview and personal workout with teams could land him higher than the ninth spot.  
 
8
Jakob Ackerman, D
Projected VHL Club: Seattle Bears
VHLM Club: Minot Gladiators
GP: 72 G:11 A: 47 PTS: 58
 
Being a native Seatteite, Ackerman would definitely like to play for his hometown team. He may get that chance if the Bears elect to take a defenceman at eighth rather than a much needed winger. Ackerman is a smooth skater with a heavy pass. He controls the puck well and is a powerplay specialist. Ackerman shows potential to work on his defensive game, but he's actually been transitioning to more of an offensive type skillset. Ackerman should be thought of as an athlete in this draft, and can be molded into whatever his team asks of him. That's something special.
 
 
7
Fedir Okranitz, G
Projected VHL Club: Toronto Legion
VHLM Club: Yukon Rush
GP: 69 W: 21 L: 40 GAA: 4.26
 
Okranitz is the second ranked goaltender in this draft class. Goalies who can train hard and make a name for themselves can do well at the next level (or at the very least be drafted high). Okranitz may see his named call early in this draft due to his position and the needs of the Toronto Legion. Fedir shows some promise, and would be a safe pick at this spot if his dedication to improvement can be verified.
 
 
6
Jakub Rhinehart, D
Projected VHL Club: Helsinki Titans
VHLM Club: Saskatoon Wild
 
GP: 64 G:1 A: 14 PTS: 15
 
Jakub Rhinehart is a heavy hitting defensive player with a great shot. But that's about it. Rhinehart hasn't been working on his passing game and needs to work on the fundamentals. Rhinehart might be able to transition into any system, but teams might see it a little risky to select Rhinehart so early in the draft. He may develop into a powerhouse, but he has not been putting in the work he needs to prove his dedication to development.
 
 
 5
Gifford Shock, C
Projected VHL Club: Davos HC Dynamo
VHLM Club: Bratislava Watchmen
GP: 72 G:18 A: 29 PTS: 47
 
Gifford Shock is a well-rounded gritty centerman that can get the job done. Shock played a supporting role this past year with the Watchmen and was an excellent team player. Shock appears to be able to develop into any role his draft team will need with his widespread skillset.
 
 
 4
Rift Pajodcast, C
Projected VHL Club: Stockholm Vikings
VHLM Club: Minot Gladiators
GP: 72 G:22 A: 52 PTS: 74
 
Pajodcast is a faceoff phenom and a skilled two-way forward. Rift may transition into a defensive role later in his career, but if can improve his scoring abilities, he could blossom into a great talent. It seems as if he has spent a lot of time working on his defensive game recently and any club wanting to draft him should be aware of his intentions. 
 
 
3
Teuvo Ruutu, D
Projected VHL Club: Davos HC Dynamo
VHLM Club: Minot Gladiators
GP: 72 G:17 A: 86 PTS: 103
 
Ruutu is a sure pick early in this draft. He is committed to becoming a great defenceman and would likely develop quickly to get on the VHL ice as soon as possible. Ruutu benefited this past year by having scoring talent on his line. Ruuto is a solid blueliner and powerplay specialist.
 
 
 2
Jack Kowalski, D
Projected VHL Club: Stockholm Vikings
VHLM Club: Oslo Storm
GP: 72 G:14 A: 56 PTS: 70
 
Kowalski will certainly become a great defenceman throughout his career. Perhaps a hall of famer. He's an imposing force on the back end and can lay the body down consistently. Kowalski takes the body hard, but can also help out in the offensive game. He's a definite top two pick, and in most drafts, would be a sure first overall selection.
 
 
1
Niklaus Mikaelson, G
Projected VHL Club: Seattle Bears
VHLM Club: Oslo Storm
GP: 72 W: 60 L: 9 GAA: 2.11
 
What can I say? Mikaelson is one of the top rated goaltenders in history and Seattle is primed to rebuild from the goal out. The Bears will be getting a sure hall of famer in Mikaelson and I think everyone looks forward to seeing how his career will pan out. Just shy of 300 practice hours, Niklaus has a great skillset to have an immediate impact. He has a long career ahead of him, and I think he's by far the strongest prospect in this class.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

SEASON 41 VHL ENTRY DRAFT BIG BOARD
 

 
Some of the Season 41 draftees are starting to take advantage of their achievement tracker which is having an impact for the first round projections. Again, it appears the last few picks in the first and a first few in the second rounds will be the toss ups. As promised, this edition will break down the projected top ten picks.
 
10
Kyle Kingma, RW
Projected VHL Club: New York Americans
VHLM Club: Bern Royals
GP: 48 G: 21 A: 26 PTS: 47
 
Kingma really burst onto the scene during Season 40. Identified to be a strong power forward, Kingma shows a great upside and has been putting in many practice hours to prove himself worthy of a first round selection. What might be most impressive about Kingma is that he is a first gen waiver claim (i.e. no carryover TPE and no post trade deadline TPE gains). He's been working hard, and sources are telling me that he may in fact go higher than tenth. Teams may be taking chances if they are hoping he falls into the second round. I just don't see that happening.
 
9
Borje Samuelsson, D
Projected VHL Club: Davos HC Dynamo
VHLM Club: Saskatoon Wild
GP: 73 G:20 A: 78 PTS: 98
 
Samuelsson is a big Swedish defenceman at 6'7, 235 lbs who has high mobility. Samuelsson is a quarterbacking type defenceman who can make strong outlet passes and use his size to his advantage. Borje is one of many defencemen projected to be taken in the first round. Taking this into consideration, a strong interview and personal workout with teams could land him higher than the ninth spot.  
 
8
Jakob Ackerman, D
Projected VHL Club: Seattle Bears
VHLM Club: Minot Gladiators
GP: 72 G:11 A: 47 PTS: 58
 
Being a native Seatteite, Ackerman would definitely like to play for his hometown team. He may get that chance if the Bears elect to take a defenceman at eighth rather than a much needed winger. Ackerman is a smooth skater with a heavy pass. He controls the puck well and is a powerplay specialist. Ackerman shows potential to work on his defensive game, but he's actually been transitioning to more of an offensive type skillset. Ackerman should be thought of as an athlete in this draft, and can be molded into whatever his team asks of him. That's something special.
 
 
7
Fedir Okranitz, G
Projected VHL Club: Toronto Legion
VHLM Club: Yukon Rush
GP: 69 W: 21 L: 40 GAA: 4.26
 
Okranitz is the second ranked goaltender in this draft class. Goalies who can train hard and make a name for themselves can do well at the next level (or at the very least be drafted high). Okranitz may see his named call early in this draft due to his position and the needs of the Toronto Legion. Fedir shows some promise, and would be a safe pick at this spot if his dedication to improvement can be verified.
 
 
6
Jakub Rhinehart, D
Projected VHL Club: Helsinki Titans
VHLM Club: Saskatoon Wild
 
GP: 64 G:1 A: 14 PTS: 15
 
Jakub Rhinehart is a heavy hitting defensive player with a great shot. But that's about it. Rhinehart hasn't been working on his passing game and needs to work on the fundamentals. Rhinehart might be able to transition into any system, but teams might see it a little risky to select Rhinehart so early in the draft. He may develop into a powerhouse, but he has not been putting in the work he needs to prove his dedication to development.
 
 
 5
Gifford Shock, C
Projected VHL Club: Davos HC Dynamo
VHLM Club: Bratislava Watchmen
GP: 72 G:18 A: 29 PTS: 47
 
Gifford Shock is a well-rounded gritty centerman that can get the job done. Shock played a supporting role this past year with the Watchmen and was an excellent team player. Shock appears to be able to develop into any role his draft team will need with his widespread skillset.
 
 
 4
Rift Pajodcast, C
Projected VHL Club: Stockholm Vikings
VHLM Club: Minot Gladiators
GP: 72 G:22 A: 52 PTS: 74
 
Pajodcast is a faceoff phenom and a skilled two-way forward. Rift may transition into a defensive role later in his career, but if can improve his scoring abilities, he could blossom into a great talent. It seems as if he has spent a lot of time working on his defensive game recently and any club wanting to draft him should be aware of his intentions. 
 
 
3
Teuvo Ruutu, D
Projected VHL Club: Davos HC Dynamo
VHLM Club: Minot Gladiators
GP: 72 G:17 A: 86 PTS: 103
 
Ruutu is a sure pick early in this draft. He is committed to becoming a great defenceman and would likely develop quickly to get on the VHL ice as soon as possible. Ruutu benefited this past year by having scoring talent on his line. Ruuto is a solid blueliner and powerplay specialist.
 
 
 2
Jack Kowalski, D
Projected VHL Club: Stockholm Vikings
VHLM Club: Oslo Storm
GP: 72 G:14 A: 56 PTS: 70
 
Kowalski will certainly become a great defenceman throughout his career. Perhaps a hall of famer. He's an imposing force on the back end and can lay the body down consistently. Kowalski takes the body hard, but can also help out in the offensive game. He's a definite top two pick, and in most drafts, would be a sure first overall selection.
 
 
1
Niklaus Mikaelson, G
Projected VHL Club: Seattle Bears
VHLM Club: Oslo Storm
GP: 72 W: 60 L: 9 GAA: 2.11
 
What can I say? Mikaelson is one of the top rated goaltenders in history and Seattle is primed to rebuild from the goal out. The Bears will be getting a sure hall of famer in Mikaelson and I think everyone looks forward to seeing how his career will pan out. Just shy of 300 practice hours, Niklaus has a great skillset to have an immediate impact. He has a long career ahead of him, and I think he's by far the strongest prospect in this class.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

SEASON 41 VHL ENTRY DRAFT BIG BOARD
 

 
Some of the Season 41 draftees are starting to take advantage of their achievement tracker which is having an impact for the first round projections. Again, it appears the last few picks in the first and a first few in the second rounds will be the toss ups. As promised, this edition will break down the projected top ten picks.
 
10
Kyle Kingma, RW
Projected VHL Club: New York Americans
VHLM Club: Bern Royals
GP: 48 G: 21 A: 26 PTS: 47
 
Kingma really burst onto the scene during Season 40. Identified to be a strong power forward, Kingma shows a great upside and has been putting in many practice hours to prove himself worthy of a first round selection. What might be most impressive about Kingma is that he is a first gen waiver claim (i.e. no carryover TPE and no post trade deadline TPE gains). He's been working hard, and sources are telling me that he may in fact go higher than tenth. Teams may be taking chances if they are hoping he falls into the second round. I just don't see that happening.
 
9
Borje Samuelsson, D
Projected VHL Club: Davos HC Dynamo
VHLM Club: Saskatoon Wild
GP: 73 G:20 A: 78 PTS: 98
 
Samuelsson is a big Swedish defenceman at 6'7, 235 lbs who has high mobility. Samuelsson is a quarterbacking type defenceman who can make strong outlet passes and use his size to his advantage. Borje is one of many defencemen projected to be taken in the first round. Taking this into consideration, a strong interview and personal workout with teams could land him higher than the ninth spot.  
 
8
Jakob Ackerman, D
Projected VHL Club: Seattle Bears
VHLM Club: Minot Gladiators
GP: 72 G:11 A: 47 PTS: 58
 
Being a native Seatteite, Ackerman would definitely like to play for his hometown team. He may get that chance if the Bears elect to take a defenceman at eighth rather than a much needed winger. Ackerman is a smooth skater with a heavy pass. He controls the puck well and is a powerplay specialist. Ackerman shows potential to work on his defensive game, but he's actually been transitioning to more of an offensive type skillset. Ackerman should be thought of as an athlete in this draft, and can be molded into whatever his team asks of him. That's something special.
 
 
7
Fedir Okranitz, G
Projected VHL Club: Toronto Legion
VHLM Club: Yukon Rush
GP: 69 W: 21 L: 40 GAA: 4.26
 
Okranitz is the second ranked goaltender in this draft class. Goalies who can train hard and make a name for themselves can do well at the next level (or at the very least be drafted high). Okranitz may see his named call early in this draft due to his position and the needs of the Toronto Legion. Fedir shows some promise, and would be a safe pick at this spot if his dedication to improvement can be verified.
 
 
6
Jakub Rhinehart, D
Projected VHL Club: Helsinki Titans
VHLM Club: Saskatoon Wild
 
GP: 64 G:1 A: 14 PTS: 15
 
Jakub Rhinehart is a heavy hitting defensive player with a great shot. But that's about it. Rhinehart hasn't been working on his passing game and needs to work on the fundamentals. Rhinehart might be able to transition into any system, but teams might see it a little risky to select Rhinehart so early in the draft. He may develop into a powerhouse, but he has not been putting in the work he needs to prove his dedication to development.
 
 
 5
Gifford Shock, C
Projected VHL Club: Davos HC Dynamo
VHLM Club: Bratislava Watchmen
GP: 72 G:18 A: 29 PTS: 47
 
Gifford Shock is a well-rounded gritty centerman that can get the job done. Shock played a supporting role this past year with the Watchmen and was an excellent team player. Shock appears to be able to develop into any role his draft team will need with his widespread skillset.
 
 
 4
Rift Pajodcast, C
Projected VHL Club: Stockholm Vikings
VHLM Club: Minot Gladiators
GP: 72 G:22 A: 52 PTS: 74
 
Pajodcast is a faceoff phenom and a skilled two-way forward. Rift may transition into a defensive role later in his career, but if can improve his scoring abilities, he could blossom into a great talent. It seems as if he has spent a lot of time working on his defensive game recently and any club wanting to draft him should be aware of his intentions. 
 
 
3
Teuvo Ruutu, D
Projected VHL Club: Davos HC Dynamo
VHLM Club: Minot Gladiators
GP: 72 G:17 A: 86 PTS: 103
 
Ruutu is a sure pick early in this draft. He is committed to becoming a great defenceman and would likely develop quickly to get on the VHL ice as soon as possible. Ruutu benefited this past year by having scoring talent on his line. Ruuto is a solid blueliner and powerplay specialist.
 
 
 2
Jack Kowalski, D
Projected VHL Club: Stockholm Vikings
VHLM Club: Oslo Storm
GP: 72 G:14 A: 56 PTS: 70
 
Kowalski will certainly become a great defenceman throughout his career. Perhaps a hall of famer. He's an imposing force on the back end and can lay the body down consistently. Kowalski takes the body hard, but can also help out in the offensive game. He's a definite top two pick, and in most drafts, would be a sure first overall selection.
 
 
1
Niklaus Mikaelson, G
Projected VHL Club: Seattle Bears
VHLM Club: Oslo Storm
GP: 72 W: 60 L: 9 GAA: 2.11
 
What can I say? Mikaelson is one of the top rated goaltenders in history and Seattle is primed to rebuild from the goal out. The Bears will be getting a sure hall of famer in Mikaelson and I think everyone looks forward to seeing how his career will pan out. Just shy of 300 practice hours, Niklaus has a great skillset to have an immediate impact. He has a long career ahead of him, and I think he's by far the strongest prospect in this class.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Can I please get my grade? Thankx

BERN, SWITZERLAND
 
The Bern Royals battled hard over the past few weeks to stay in playoff contention. After trading away two of their super stars (Jody 3 Moons and Jaime Hill), some wondered if the remaining cast members could keep the Kingdom alive for the remainder of the season. The Royals finished 5th in the European Conference with the strong play of waiver claim and Season 41 VHLM/VHL prospect Kyle Kingma. We sat down with Kingma to discuss how he thought the season went and what the future has in store for him.
 

 
Thank Kyle for agreeing to do this interview. You were an undrafted waiver claim by the Royals early on this season. Are you pleased with how your season started?
 
"Good morning! Yes, I am very pleased to have been claimed by the Royals. I was very excited about the possibility of playing alongside talented VHLMers like Jody 3 Moons and Jaime Hill. I came in pretty green and the speed of the game was tough for me. My first ten games or so were not pretty, I was taking a lot of penalties and had a pretty bad plus/minus rating. I was new, but I think I learned quickly as the season went on."
 
You sure did! Your play picked up as the season went on and scored a total of 46 points. Are you pleased with your point production this year?
 
"Actually it was 47 points in 48 games! Yeah, I'm happy with my production this year. I would have preferred to get that 1 PPG average but 0.98 PPG is not all that bad considering this is my first year. My scoring picked up after the trade deadline because it was really up to me Parks, Sammy, and Karl to do the heavy lifting. I'm not happy with my -6 rating but I was on the ice most of the game so that will happen."
 
With the playoffs about to start, can you give us any predictions?
 
"All I know is that I'm going to give my teammates everything I've got. It's a pretty tough road ahead to get to the Cup, but stranger things have happened. We recently picked up a new goalie off waivers, Klajums, and I'll tell ya, he's the first one at the rink in the morning and the last one out. He's working really hard and I wouldn't be surprised if he elevates us to that next level. I think we can make a respectable run, but having played with 3 Moons and Hill, they're fiercely competitive and I think the Watchmen and Storm are going to be strong contenders. This will be my first playoffs, so I'm just really happy to have this opportunity."
 

 
Alright, so this is your draft year, not only for the VHLM Dispersal but also the VHL Entry. Tell us your ideal draft day.
 
"Like I said, I'm very focused right now on doing what I can for my Royals in the upcoming playoffs. I'll worry about the drafts afterwards. What I will say is though that I'm a little upset about the outcome of the VHLM draft lottery. I'd really like to stay with the Royals next season but I've been told I'm a top 3 pick which means I'd likely go to Bratislava or Yukon. Don't get me wrong, these are great organizations, but if I had my way, I'd like to be a Royal next year as well."
 
576 words.
 
 
 

Congrats! Great season man.

SEASON 41 VHL ENTRY DRAFT BIG BOARD

 
Here we have the first mock draft complete with team projections. Some of these teams are subject to change as we move forward, but not by too much. As I discussed last week, this draft class is pretty solid, but by no means as stacked as last year's. No player has crossed the 300 TPE threshold yet, though Mikaelson is on pace to do so by draft day. There has been a lot of movement around the later 1st and early 2nd rounds. 
 
While much of the draft rankings are predicated on TPE, I have made some projections based on team needs and who might be available on the board. The first round now has two goalies which will shake up the order. Mikaelson is the best available and will undoubtedly go first overall to Seattle who desperately needs a keeper. However this mock draft is now projecting Fedir Okranitz to be a first rounder and may actually go early at 7th to the Toronto Legion who are also in need of a goaltender. If they don't take him at 7th, they will go another season without a good goalie prospect. The other change ups appear to be Davos opting to take Mario De Rossi at 8th instead of the another skilled defenseman prospect. Davos has three picks in the first round and I don't think they'll choose three defensemen with those picks. Davos actually has many picks this year and any of these players have a 1 in 6 chance of becoming a Dynamo. Similarly, 1 in 5 of this year's stable will become Seattle Bear.
 
I understand these can still change after the draft lottery and final standings, but nonetheless, having two goalies in the first round in a league that is short of good goaltender prospects can make the second half of the first round unpredictable. Next week I hope to have an interview with the top 3 prospects.
 
Cheers.

SEASON 41 VHL ENTRY DRAFT BIG BOARD

 
Here we have the first mock draft complete with team projections. Some of these teams are subject to change as we move forward, but not by too much. As I discussed last week, this draft class is pretty solid, but by no means as stacked as last year's. No player has crossed the 300 TPE threshold yet, though Mikaelson is on pace to do so by draft day. There has been a lot of movement around the later 1st and early 2nd rounds. 
 
While much of the draft rankings are predicated on TPE, I have made some projections based on team needs and who might be available on the board. The first round now has two goalies which will shake up the order. Mikaelson is the best available and will undoubtedly go first overall to Seattle who desperately needs a keeper. However this mock draft is now projecting Fedir Okranitz to be a first rounder and may actually go early at 7th to the Toronto Legion who are also in need of a goaltender. If they don't take him at 7th, they will go another season without a good goalie prospect. The other change ups appear to be Davos opting to take Mario De Rossi at 8th instead of the another skilled defenseman prospect. Davos has three picks in the first round and I don't think they'll choose three defensemen with those picks. Davos actually has many picks this year and any of these players have a 1 in 6 chance of becoming a Dynamo. Similarly, 1 in 5 of this year's stable will become Seattle Bear.
 
I understand these can still change after the draft lottery and final standings, but nonetheless, having two goalies in the first round in a league that is short of good goaltender prospects can make the second half of the first round unpredictable. Next week I hope to have an interview with the top 3 prospects.
 
Cheers.

SEASON 41 VHL ENTRY DRAFT BIG BOARD

 
Here we have the first mock draft complete with team projections. Some of these teams are subject to change as we move forward, but not by too much. As I discussed last week, this draft class is pretty solid, but by no means as stacked as last year's. No player has crossed the 300 TPE threshold yet, though Mikaelson is on pace to do so by draft day. There has been a lot of movement around the later 1st and early 2nd rounds. 
 
While much of the draft rankings are predicated on TPE, I have made some projections based on team needs and who might be available on the board. The first round now has two goalies which will shake up the order. Mikaelson is the best available and will undoubtedly go first overall to Seattle who desperately needs a keeper. However this mock draft is now projecting Fedir Okranitz to be a first rounder and may actually go early at 7th to the Toronto Legion who are also in need of a goaltender. If they don't take him at 7th, they will go another season without a good goalie prospect. The other change ups appear to be Davos opting to take Mario De Rossi at 8th instead of the another skilled defenseman prospect. Davos has three picks in the first round and I don't think they'll choose three defensemen with those picks. Davos actually has many picks this year and any of these players have a 1 in 6 chance of becoming a Dynamo. Similarly, 1 in 5 of this year's stable will become Seattle Bear.
 
I understand these can still change after the draft lottery and final standings, but nonetheless, having two goalies in the first round in a league that is short of good goaltender prospects can make the second half of the first round unpredictable. Next week I hope to have an interview with the top 3 prospects.
 
Cheers.

SEASON 41 ENTRY DRAFT BIG BOARD



Alright, so I've been hired to conduct the Season 41 VHL Entry Draft rankings. Others before me have done a great job and I hope to bring the same sort of excitement and analysis into my weekly rankings. This first ranking includes the entire draft class as we have passed the trade deadline. As you can see we have four full rounds (kind of). Changes in ranks are from Kendrick's big board that was done a week or two ago.

While this draft will by no means approach the quality of last year's historic draft, it is not without its value. Niklaus Mikaelson is poised to be the first goalie picked overall since the Season 35 Entry Draft in which HC Davos drafted Lennox Moher. The Seattle Bears will really have no choice but to select Mikaelson with their first pick. What will get interesting this is year however is that there may be some shake ups if Fedir Okranitz can make it into the first round. Other teams looking for goalie prospects may trade down to avoid taking him too high. This will really make predicting the first round tough. Many of the players in this draft will likely need another year of prep before the VHL.

We should get a clearer picture of the picking order by the next edition.

SEASON 41 ENTRY DRAFT BIG BOARD



Alright, so I've been hired to conduct the Season 41 VHL Entry Draft rankings. Others before me have done a great job and I hope to bring the same sort of excitement and analysis into my weekly rankings. This first ranking includes the entire draft class as we have passed the trade deadline. As you can see we have four full rounds (kind of). Changes in ranks are from Kendrick's big board that was done a week or two ago.

While this draft will by no means approach the quality of last year's historic draft, it is not without its value. Niklaus Mikaelson is poised to be the first goalie picked overall since the Season 35 Entry Draft in which HC Davos drafted Lennox Moher. The Seattle Bears will really have no choice but to select Mikaelson with their first pick. What will get interesting this is year however is that there may be some shake ups if Fedir Okranitz can make it into the first round. Other teams looking for goalie prospects may trade down to avoid taking him too high. This will really make predicting the first round tough. Many of the players in this draft will likely need another year of prep before the VHL.

We should get a clearer picture of the picking order by the next edition.

SEASON 41 ENTRY DRAFT BIG BOARD



Alright, so I've been hired to conduct the Season 41 VHL Entry Draft rankings. Others before me have done a great job and I hope to bring the same sort of excitement and analysis into my weekly rankings. This first ranking includes the entire draft class as we have passed the trade deadline. As you can see we have four full rounds (kind of). Changes in ranks are from Kendrick's big board that was done a week or two ago.

While this draft will by no means approach the quality of last year's historic draft, it is not without its value. Niklaus Mikaelson is poised to be the first goalie picked overall since the Season 35 Entry Draft in which HC Davos drafted Lennox Moher. The Seattle Bears will really have no choice but to select Mikaelson with their first pick. What will get interesting this is year however is that there may be some shake ups if Fedir Okranitz can make it into the first round. Other teams looking for goalie prospects may trade down to avoid taking him too high. This will really make predicting the first round tough. Many of the players in this draft will likely need another year of prep before the VHL.

We should get a clearer picture of the picking order by the next edition.

BERN, SWITZERLAND
Less than 24 hours from the Season 40 trade deadline, the Bern Royals have made two high profile trades resulting in two teams becoming stronger championship contenders, and one finding itself in a position to draft some solid prospects.
 
Trade #1:
 
To    
S41 BRT 1st

To    
Jody 3 Moons
 
Yes you read that right! The Bratislava Watchmen solidified their intent to go all the way this year by landing superstar New York Americans prospect Jody 3 Moons. 3 Moons (69-67-136) joins an already talented Watchmen squad and will play alongside Sachimo Zoidberg and Oskars Harumpf who to date have combined for 266 points in 55 games. 3 Moons is expected to graduate to the VHL next season, but the chance to win a Cup before he does so was at the heart of the trade this afternoon.
 
Watchmen GM KitRas provided a comment on the trade. 
 
"The trade really strengthened our roster, 3 moons has been one of the top scorers this year and is a great addition. He will start on the 2nd line to hopefully bring some secondary scoring to our team. The first was a big price to pay, but its worth it for a better shot at the championship. I think we have a real shot now, we may still have some holes in our roster that we are looking to fill but I wont comment on that right now."  
 
When asked if he could now guarantee a championship, KitRas had this to say:
 
"I can't guarantee a championship, Oslo just got a whole lot better in receiving Jamie Hill, but I think if we meet up with them in the playoffs we have a legitimate shot at beating them, and then its on to the finals. I cant guarantee a championship, but I can say our chances just got a whole lot better."
 
Bern received a Season 41 VHLM Dispersal 1st round draft pick in the exchange and is expected to lock up some young talent for next season. Royals GM jaladolar did not say who they were looking at at this time, but has said in closed circles that the Royals are looking for their next "King".
 
Trade #2:
 
To Bern 
 
S41 Oslo 3rd
S42 Oslo 3rd
S42 Oslo 2nd
 
To Oslo 
 
D - Jaime Hill
 
Bratislava's European Conference foe Oslo Storm also made some moves to land top talent prior to the deadline. The Storm landed one of the league's top defensemen in Jaime Hill (22-62-84). Hill will likely pair up with Vladimir Kamarov and will add to an already stingy defensive core. The Storm currently lead the league in fewest goals against with 111. By adding Hill, Oslo appears to have an answer to Bratislava's offensive weapons.
 
Jaime Hill provided a statement on today's trade:
 
"I'm looking forward to bringing my defensive skills to Oslo as we'll need them to hold off the possibility of a 3 Moons/Harumpf/Zoidberg line! While I had a great time on Bern, I understand jaladolar's desire and need as GM to do what's best for his team."
 
Bern's GM jaladolar had this to say about today's trades:
 
"It was a hard decision to move two of our elite players to other teams, but in hockey you have to make some hard choices, especially as management. This isn't a reflection on their time as players or members of the Bern organization, but more that I took a hard look and knew our chances of winning the Cup this season weren't as good as Oslo or Bratislava. Hill and 3 Moons will both be moving up to the VHL after this season and I wanted to give them the chance to win a Cup before they got there.

They were great leaders on the team on the ice and in the locker room and I'd like to thank them for all their hard work and dedication to this team. 

As for the return, like I said they'll be moving up so they're just rentals to stronger Cup contenders and I'm pleased with the picks we got back. All in all I think the trades are beneficial to all sides and I look forward to getting to play with 3 Moons out on the ice."
 
Bern landed two Season 41 picks and two Season 42 picks and are hopeful in drafting top talent in the seasons to come. The Royals made some wise moves today because while they do have some talent to perhaps be competitive in the first round, they likely did not have enough to get far and these players would likely graduate to the VHL next year. In some ways this is also true for Oslo and Bratislava, and therefore Bern is in a good position with their stable of picks. Expect the Royals to be a strong contender by the end of Season 42. 
 
801 words.
*drops mic

I agree with your moves jala. Looking at our team, Gorlab was leaving next year anyways and without locking some of us waiver claims the team would likely be fighting Turku for the bottom dweller award next year...

5. Moscow Red Wolves 
 
Red
 

 
Red from the Moscow Red Wolves is not your typical mascot. He's actually quite a jolly fellow. While most mascots will hand out high fives at will, Red will only do so once you answer a riddle that he poses to you. He's kind of a dick. Needless to say, Red is perhaps the most bland mascot in the entire VHLM. But he looks cool doing it.
 
 
4. Turku Outlaws 
 
The Turk
 

The Turk is actually an ancient Turku warrior that really has nothing to do with the team. The Turkus were a barbarian tribe in Finland during the Roman Empire era, and were known for their elaborate disguises. As the legend goes, the Turkus fought back Roman invaders by covering themselves in shrubbery and giant clam shells. The Turk rushes onto the ice and hollers "Gluubeerama bluubeerama rajii rajii" and then does back flips back off the ice. The Turk is just a strange Finnish cultural thing, but I like him!
 
  3. Bern Royals 
 
Bernie

 
Bernie is the Royals' main attraction, well, after Jody 3 Moons of course! Outfitted in regalia worn by King Louis XVI, Bernie is the cat's pajamas. At every home game, Bernie knights one special fan to be the Sentry-on-Guard. The Sentry gets to drop a ceremonial puck and wear a funny looking sash. Did I mention that Bernie's crown includes the Ruby of the Empire which was Queen Victoria's most prized possession? Bernie has bling and is very distinguished.
 
 
 
2. Bratislava Watchmen 
 
Brutus IX of Bratislava

 
Brataslava's Brutus IX is a majestic Slovakian Pit Bull Terrier who comes from a long lineage of Watchmen guard dogs. Brutus IX's great great great grandfather protected Slovakian soldiers from madness by fetching hockey sticks out of the Black Forest during the Great War. The student section at the Watchmen's arena is known as the "Dog Pound", but people don't bark. Instead they scowl at the opponents and drool and do all the fun things a Slovak Pit Bull does. It is often understood that opposing teams have about five minutes to leave the rink if they beat the Watchmen. Good thing for the league is that the Watchmen rarely lose. Brutus IX doesn't do much nowadays but he continues to inspire fans by his outreach work at local hospitals. Brutus IX has sired three sons who are all vying to become the next "Pes Na Starosti".
 
 
 
1. Oslo Storm 
 
Knut the Great
 

 
Knut the Great electrifies the Oslo faithful with his high pressured antics. Knut whips Storm players into a feeding frenzy in which they devour their opponents. Not really, but you get the picture. Knut is just a big hunk of man and is in my opinion, the best mascot in the VLHM.
 
 
~475 words

5. Moscow Red Wolves 
 
Red
 

 
Red from the Moscow Red Wolves is not your typical mascot. He's actually quite a jolly fellow. While most mascots will hand out high fives at will, Red will only do so once you answer a riddle that he poses to you. He's kind of a dick. Needless to say, Red is perhaps the most bland mascot in the entire VHLM. But he looks cool doing it.
 
 
4. Turku Outlaws 
 
The Turk
 

The Turk is actually an ancient Turku warrior that really has nothing to do with the team. The Turkus were a barbarian tribe in Finland during the Roman Empire era, and were known for their elaborate disguises. As the legend goes, the Turkus fought back Roman invaders by covering themselves in shrubbery and giant clam shells. The Turk rushes onto the ice and hollers "Gluubeerama bluubeerama rajii rajii" and then does back flips back off the ice. The Turk is just a strange Finnish cultural thing, but I like him!
 
  3. Bern Royals 
 
Bernie

 
Bernie is the Royals' main attraction, well, after Jody 3 Moons of course! Outfitted in regalia worn by King Louis XVI, Bernie is the cat's pajamas. At every home game, Bernie knights one special fan to be the Sentry-on-Guard. The Sentry gets to drop a ceremonial puck and wear a funny looking sash. Did I mention that Bernie's crown includes the Ruby of the Empire which was Queen Victoria's most prized possession? Bernie has bling and is very distinguished.
 
 
 
2. Bratislava Watchmen 
 
Brutus IX of Bratislava

 
Brataslava's Brutus IX is a majestic Slovakian Pit Bull Terrier who comes from a long lineage of Watchmen guard dogs. Brutus IX's great great great grandfather protected Slovakian soldiers from madness by fetching hockey sticks out of the Black Forest during the Great War. The student section at the Watchmen's arena is known as the "Dog Pound", but people don't bark. Instead they scowl at the opponents and drool and do all the fun things a Slovak Pit Bull does. It is often understood that opposing teams have about five minutes to leave the rink if they beat the Watchmen. Good thing for the league is that the Watchmen rarely lose. Brutus IX doesn't do much nowadays but he continues to inspire fans by his outreach work at local hospitals. Brutus IX has sired three sons who are all vying to become the next "Pes Na Starosti".
 
 
 
1. Oslo Storm 
 
Knut the Great
 

 
Knut the Great electrifies the Oslo faithful with his high pressured antics. Knut whips Storm players into a feeding frenzy in which they devour their opponents. Not really, but you get the picture. Knut is just a big hunk of man and is in my opinion, the best mascot in the VLHM.
 
 
~475 words

5. Moscow Red Wolves 
 
Red
 

 
Red from the Moscow Red Wolves is not your typical mascot. He's actually quite a jolly fellow. While most mascots will hand out high fives at will, Red will only do so once you answer a riddle that he poses to you. He's kind of a dick. Needless to say, Red is perhaps the most bland mascot in the entire VHLM. But he looks cool doing it.
 
 
4. Turku Outlaws 
 
The Turk
 

The Turk is actually an ancient Turku warrior that really has nothing to do with the team. The Turkus were a barbarian tribe in Finland during the Roman Empire era, and were known for their elaborate disguises. As the legend goes, the Turkus fought back Roman invaders by covering themselves in shrubbery and giant clam shells. The Turk rushes onto the ice and hollers "Gluubeerama bluubeerama rajii rajii" and then does back flips back off the ice. The Turk is just a strange Finnish cultural thing, but I like him!
 
  3. Bern Royals 
 
Bernie

 
Bernie is the Royals' main attraction, well, after Jody 3 Moons of course! Outfitted in regalia worn by King Louis XVI, Bernie is the cat's pajamas. At every home game, Bernie knights one special fan to be the Sentry-on-Guard. The Sentry gets to drop a ceremonial puck and wear a funny looking sash. Did I mention that Bernie's crown includes the Ruby of the Empire which was Queen Victoria's most prized possession? Bernie has bling and is very distinguished.
 
 
 
2. Bratislava Watchmen 
 
Brutus IX of Bratislava

 
Brataslava's Brutus IX is a majestic Slovakian Pit Bull Terrier who comes from a long lineage of Watchmen guard dogs. Brutus IX's great great great grandfather protected Slovakian soldiers from madness by fetching hockey sticks out of the Black Forest during the Great War. The student section at the Watchmen's arena is known as the "Dog Pound", but people don't bark. Instead they scowl at the opponents and drool and do all the fun things a Slovak Pit Bull does. It is often understood that opposing teams have about five minutes to leave the rink if they beat the Watchmen. Good thing for the league is that the Watchmen rarely lose. Brutus IX doesn't do much nowadays but he continues to inspire fans by his outreach work at local hospitals. Brutus IX has sired three sons who are all vying to become the next "Pes Na Starosti".
 
 
 
1. Oslo Storm 
 
Knut the Great
 

 
Knut the Great electrifies the Oslo faithful with his high pressured antics. Knut whips Storm players into a feeding frenzy in which they devour their opponents. Not really, but you get the picture. Knut is just a big hunk of man and is in my opinion, the best mascot in the VLHM.
 
 
~475 words

5. Moscow Red Wolves 
 
Red
 

 
Red from the Moscow Red Wolves is not your typical mascot. He's actually quite a jolly fellow. While most mascots will hand out high fives at will, Red will only do so once you answer a riddle that he poses to you. He's kind of a dick. Needless to say, Red is perhaps the most bland mascot in the entire VHLM. But he looks cool doing it.
 
 
4. Turku Outlaws 
 
The Turk
 

The Turk is actually an ancient Turku warrior that really has nothing to do with the team. The Turkus were a barbarian tribe in Finland during the Roman Empire era, and were known for their elaborate disguises. As the legend goes, the Turkus fought back Roman invaders by covering themselves in shrubbery and giant clam shells. The Turk rushes onto the ice and hollers "Gluubeerama bluubeerama rajii rajii" and then does back flips back off the ice. The Turk is just a strange Finnish cultural thing, but I like him!
 
  3. Bern Royals 
 
Bernie

 
Bernie is the Royals' main attraction, well, after Jody 3 Moons of course! Outfitted in regalia worn by King Louis XVI, Bernie is the cat's pajamas. At every home game, Bernie knights one special fan to be the Sentry-on-Guard. The Sentry gets to drop a ceremonial puck and wear a funny looking sash. Did I mention that Bernie's crown includes the Ruby of the Empire which was Queen Victoria's most prized possession? Bernie has bling and is very distinguished.
 
 
 
2. Bratislava Watchmen 
 
Brutus IX of Bratislava

 
Brataslava's Brutus IX is a majestic Slovakian Pit Bull Terrier who comes from a long lineage of Watchmen guard dogs. Brutus IX's great great great grandfather protected Slovakian soldiers from madness by fetching hockey sticks out of the Black Forest during the Great War. The student section at the Watchmen's arena is known as the "Dog Pound", but people don't bark. Instead they scowl at the opponents and drool and do all the fun things a Slovak Pit Bull does. It is often understood that opposing teams have about five minutes to leave the rink if they beat the Watchmen. Good thing for the league is that the Watchmen rarely lose. Brutus IX doesn't do much nowadays but he continues to inspire fans by his outreach work at local hospitals. Brutus IX has sired three sons who are all vying to become the next "Pes Na Starosti".
 
 
 
1. Oslo Storm 
 
Knut the Great
 

 
Knut the Great electrifies the Oslo faithful with his high pressured antics. Knut whips Storm players into a feeding frenzy in which they devour their opponents. Not really, but you get the picture. Knut is just a big hunk of man and is in my opinion, the best mascot in the VLHM.
 
 
~475 words