kirbithan

Lachlan prior to the DLP-ROY game

AUGUST 14 — With the Junior Showcase Tournament fully under way, a flurry of events have happened in the past week, leading up to the first few days of hard-fought games. For Lachlan, it’s already been a wild ride. 

 

During the JST Draft, he eagerly awaited for his name to be called by one of five teams: the Royals, Warriors, Brigade, Steel, and Clue. Fully aware of the goaltender-heavy draft class, he sat back, knowing it might be a while before he would hear his name announced. If anything, all he wished for was to end up on a team with at least a few of his Marlins teammates.

 

Finally— at the 50th pick, Team Clue had selected Lachlan as their second goaltender. 

 

However, there was a twist two days after the initial JST Draft— as a sixth team was needed due to how large Season 85’s class was. As he was not a part of Team Clue’s protected list, Lachlan had a gut feeling he’d be selected by the Delhi Pickles.

 

And he was.

 

As of August 14th, the Aussie has been between the pipes for four games, with a record of 1-3-0. His save percentage is 0.896 and his GAA is 4.76. Certainly not the most impressive numbers, but he knew he could bounce back in the days following. He even got a little scrappy in a game against the Clue, getting booked for a slashing double minor.

 

Ideal? No. Interesting? Sure. 

 

All he knows is that this tournament is going to be a hell of a lot of fun.

 

Word count: 269

 

17 hours ago, jacobcarson877 said:

SAN DIEGO MARLINS (ft. the JST) PRESS CONFERENCE 

 

Week Ending 8/14/2022 or 8/21/2022

 

Answer 3 questions for 1 capped TPE, all 6 for 2. 
 

1. How are you feeling about your performance in the JST so far?
 Overall, I’m feeling good about my performance. A strong 34 save game yesterday always makes a goaltender feel confident. Though the other two games I started today were a bit rough. Hopefully tomorrow is better.

2. Who do you think has the upper hand in the VHLM Finals, the Aces or the 21st?
The Aces are the clear favorites, so they have the upper hand on paper.

3. Would you rather lose in the first round or the finals?

I would rather lose in the first round. Losing in the finals is absolutely heartbreaking and would make me think more about what could have been. 

4. What is a personal goal of yours for next season?

A personal goal of mine for next season is to earn consistently and hopefully see my stats improve in net.

5. Who is 1 person you hope to be on a team with next season?

This is such a difficult question because I have multiple people I’d want to be on the same team with! So I’m going to say both Sadie St-Louis and John Richards. 

6. What is one place you've always wanted to visit?
I have always wanted to visit Tokyo, Japan!

 

Jacob, this was such a fun read! It was so entertaining to see your takes on who our NHL comparisons are. Amazing work and thank you so much for your kind words!! It's an honor to be considered an alternate captain. Thank you for embracing your team of Baby Marlins and making the VHL experience super rewarding and fun!

Awesome work, Sadie!!

1 hour ago, jacobcarson877 said:

SAN DIEGO MARLINS (ft. the JST) PRESS CONFERENCE 

 

Week Ending 8/7/2022 or 8/14/2022

 

Answer 3 questions for 1 capped TPE, all 6 for 2. 
 

1. The VHLM season has ended, so now it's the final stretch until the VHLM draft. How do you plan to stand out above your peers come draft time?
 With the amount of goaltenders, I have to give it my all to stand out, especially. But I plan to do that by being a consistent TPE earner and putting all my effort I can into everything I post on the forum.

2. The Junior Showcase Tournament begins this week! What is the coolest team name? (Clue, Brigade, Steel, Warriors, Royals)
 The coolest team name is Team Clue, mostly because it seems to be inspired by the board game, which happens to be one of my favorites.

3. There seems to be a bit of a goaltending crisis, with more eligible goaltenders than positions for the VHLM this coming season. What is one idea to help remedy that?

One idea to potentially remedy the goaltender crisis is by identifying any goaltenders who want to switch positions due to the large number and accommodate them so they can redistribute their TPE. But honestly, it's such a difficult question to answer and find solutions to.

4. What was the best thing that happened to you this week?

I got Lego Star Wars on the Nintendo Switch!

5. Who is someone in your life that you appreciate? How come?

Someone in my life I appreciate is my dad. It seems like whenever I need anything, he's always there to help out no matter what.

6. It is blazing hot, at least where I am. What is an underrated indoor activity?
An underrated indoor activity is putting together large puzzles. I personally love solving them and seeing the end product all together.

 

SAN DIEGO — With so much time on their hands, what do hockey players do in the offseason? For Lachlan Summers, the answer is an easy one. Making baked goods. Anything you could think of, he’s most likely had a run-in with it.

 

When asked about his love for baking, Summers had this to say. “I reckon it started when I would help my mum in the kitchen when I was a kid. She was always baking something on weekends. So now I’m trying to take her pastry crown from her. Don’t tell her I said that, though.”

 

“I also baked my fiancé’s birthday cake. Decorated it and everything. Quickly learned I actually enjoy that kind of stuff.” The goaltender added with a laugh. “Some of my teammates said I should start an Instagram to show off what I make. We’ll see.”

 

Summers proceeded to present his impressive portfolio of the treats he’s made over the past few months, including but not limited to: double fudge brownies, salted caramel cookies, banana bread, as well as pecan pie ( he noted the pie as his mother’s specialty ). He’s a goaltender. He’s a baker. Now what else does Summers intend to do with his time?

 

“I mean, I’m definitely gonna work on offseason conditioning. Not gonna lay around all day and eat sweets. Maybe I’ll learn how to play the drums next, though.”

 

Word count: 229

15 minutes ago, kirbithan said:

Lachlan after San Diego’s 5-2 win over Miami

 

In San Diego’s final game of the season against the Miami Marauders, goaltender Lachlan Summers was able to secure his second VHLM win in a dominant 5-2 victory, making 24 saves of 26 shots. The team in front of him had shown significant progress and a new confidence in themselves, wanting to leave it all out on the ice for the last time this season. Afterwards, Lachlan had lingered on the ice far longer than usual, leaning against the goal net and taking in everything he had experienced so far as a VHLMer.

 

With the offseason rolling around and the draft to be highly anticipated, Lachlan has had quite the whirlwind of an experience so far in the VHLM. Most of the members of this young Marlins crew were signed around the same time. They had learned the ropes of the league and what it had to offer together, figuring things out as they went. As they were the late reinforcements brought in off waivers, they were intent on leaving their mark during their short time as a complete unit. A team of misfits is what they were. Thrown into a lineup at the last possible moment, but making every second of ice time count.

 

This team quickly grasped onto the VHLM’s style of play and what they were expected to accomplish, with the help of their eager and welcoming general manager, who wanted nothing more than to watch his new recruits grow and begin to cement their own legacies.

 

Lachlan regards his short stint with the Marlins fondly, and also noted that he had quickly bonded with his teammates. The Australian was particularly glum about the fact that they could all potentially part ways come draft time. It’s bittersweet. 

 

Although they hadn’t shared the ice together long, Lachlan reminisces the late nights where he and other Marlins would exchange advice over some drinks and discuss whatever was going on in their lives and where they all came from ( albeit, most of what was on their minds at the time was how they could help out the team ), sharing whatever pastry or baked good he had learned to bake with those willing to try them, as well as a few very intense board game nights. He understands that hockey is a business, after all, and while they wouldn’t be on the same team anymore, that didn’t mean they couldn’t keep in touch.

 

His time as a Marlin has opened his eyes to the opportunities that he has in the VHLM and beyond. His goal, like his teammates and others around the league, is to rise through the ranks and reach the VHL. But of course, a spectacular feat like that is easier said than done. 

 

 

Admittedly, it was difficult for Lachlan to travel all the way out to North America after having spent his entire life in Australia, minus living half a year in Ontario while participating in a hockey camp for those who lived outside of the US and Canada. The only family member able to follow him in the move to San Diego was his dog. He had to leave behind his number one supporters— his mother Hallie and his older sister Taryn— while his fiancé is currently in Quebec, but is hoping to join him soon. Although there is the pesky and often tiresome problem that is the time zone difference, he reminds himself to call home each and every day, even if he inevitably gets chirped by his teammates when his family calls him by his childhood nickname— Lachy. 

 

With an oversaturation of goaltenders in this year’s draft, Lachlan hopes to impress any GMs that may be the slightest bit interested in him and what he could potentially bring to the table for their franchise. With that, two prime opportunities to put his skillset on display are in this year’s Junior Showcase Tournament and the World Juniors. He was never one to be overwrought or crumble under pressure, and he’ll take things one step at a time.

 

But how far can this goaltender from Down Under go?

 

Word count: 689 words

@nurx Would love to enter my article into the VHLM Writing Competition if this qualifies!

Lachlan after San Diego’s 5-2 win over Miami

 

In San Diego’s final game of the season against the Miami Marauders, goaltender Lachlan Summers was able to secure his second VHLM win in a dominant 5-2 victory, making 24 saves of 26 shots. The team in front of him had shown significant progress and a new confidence in themselves, wanting to leave it all out on the ice for the last time this season. Afterwards, Lachlan had lingered on the ice far longer than usual, leaning against the goal net and taking in everything he had experienced so far as a VHLMer.

 

With the offseason rolling around and the draft to be highly anticipated, Lachlan has had quite the whirlwind of an experience so far in the VHLM. Most of the members of this young Marlins crew were signed around the same time. They had learned the ropes of the league and what it had to offer together, figuring things out as they went. As they were the late reinforcements brought in off waivers, they were intent on leaving their mark during their short time as a complete unit. A team of misfits is what they were. Thrown into a lineup at the last possible moment, but making every second of ice time count.

 

This team quickly grasped onto the VHLM’s style of play and what they were expected to accomplish, with the help of their eager and welcoming general manager, who wanted nothing more than to watch his new recruits grow and begin to cement their own legacies.

 

Lachlan regards his short stint with the Marlins fondly, and also noted that he had quickly bonded with his teammates. The Australian was particularly glum about the fact that they could all potentially part ways come draft time. It’s bittersweet. 

 

Although they hadn’t shared the ice together long, Lachlan reminisces the late nights where he and other Marlins would exchange advice over some drinks and discuss whatever was going on in their lives and where they all came from ( albeit, most of what was on their minds at the time was how they could help out the team ), sharing whatever pastry or baked good he had learned to bake with those willing to try them, as well as a few very intense board game nights. He understands that hockey is a business, after all, and while they wouldn’t be on the same team anymore, that didn’t mean they couldn’t keep in touch.

 

His time as a Marlin has opened his eyes to the opportunities that he has in the VHLM and beyond. His goal, like his teammates and others around the league, is to rise through the ranks and reach the VHL. But of course, a spectacular feat like that is easier said than done. 

 

 

Admittedly, it was difficult for Lachlan to travel all the way out to North America after having spent his entire life in Australia, minus living half a year in Ontario while participating in a hockey camp for those who lived outside of the US and Canada. The only family member able to follow him in the move to San Diego was his dog. He had to leave behind his number one supporters— his mother Hallie and his older sister Taryn— while his fiancé is currently in Quebec, but is hoping to join him soon. Although there is the pesky and often tiresome problem that is the time zone difference, he reminds himself to call home each and every day, even if he inevitably gets chirped by his teammates when his family calls him by his childhood nickname— Lachy. 

 

With an oversaturation of goaltenders in this year’s draft, Lachlan hopes to impress any GMs that may be the slightest bit interested in him and what he could potentially bring to the table for their franchise. With that, two prime opportunities to put his skillset on display are in this year’s Junior Showcase Tournament and the World Juniors. He was never one to be overwrought or crumble under pressure, and he’ll take things one step at a time.

 

But how far can this goaltender from Down Under go?

 

Word count: 689 words

This was a great listen, Jardy! As a new member, I can definitely understand that the retention rate is low because people have no idea what the forum is or what they’re doing. I had read the rules and learned what the VHL was truly about before creating my account and everything, so I don’t think I was too clueless at least? But having a tutorial to help out recruits would definitely be something to consider, for sure, to make it easier for everyone.

SAN DIEGO – As the VHLM regular season reaches its tail end, the San Diego Marlins are still behind the Saskatoon Wild by 10 points for the last playoff spot in the Western Conference. It comes as no surprise to anyone as the Marlins have been struggling as of late, but with multiple new acquisitions from waiver signings a week prior, the Big Fish seem to have a new life brewing within them.

 

Scoring has been a major concern that the Marlins have been attempting to address, but as the new recruits are willing to fight until the end and generate much needed offense, it’d be unwise to count San Diego out just yet. With the season dwindling down to its final few games, the fight for the playoffs will come down to the wire.

 

Putting up a fight against playoff bound teams like the Philadelphia Reapers and taking away an important point from the Houston Bulls just the other day, the Marlins hope these positives can propel them to playoff glory and beat the odds that are stacked against them. 

 

The Marlins’ new players note their chemistry as something remarkable and enjoy being a team of misfits that hope to prove the doubters wrong, come the end of the regular season campaign.

9 minutes ago, SlapshotDragon said:

HOLY SHIT!

 

amazing

Thank you!! I really appreciate the kind words.

3 minutes ago, jacobcarson877 said:

This is an INCREDIBLE first attempt, a true graphics prodigy in the making!

Thank you so much!! I think being an artist helped me a bit here haha. 

 

I have no experience making graphics, so I’m happy with how this turned out.

20 minutes ago, jacobcarson877 said:

SAN DIEGO MARLINS PRESS CONFERENCE 

 

Week Ending 7/31/2022 or 8/7/2022

 

Answer 3 questions for 1 capped TPE, all 6 for 2. 
 

1. Hello everyone! Welcome to the team! How has your first week been? (Hi Minion how was your week?)
 My first week has been great! It was a bit overwhelming at first to absorb all of the information about the league, but I think I’m getting the hang of it.

2. As I write this we need to catch up 9 points in 8 games on Saskatoon to make the playoffs. Do we do it?
 I definitely think we can. Considering we won both our games yesterday, I think that’s a sign we can keep the positive streak going.

3. As we approach the off-season, what else does your player like to do in their spare time?

Lachlan would spend his spare time playing video games or baking any kind of sweet/dessert he finds interesting.

4. We have a lot of contenders, with at least 5 teams capable of winning the VHLM championship this season. Who are you placing your bets on?

I think overall, the Kings have a good chance of winning the championship. But I hope the Marlins can make a playoff run if we manage it, of course.

5. With 8 games to go in the season, what is your goal for these last games to close out the season?

Lachlan still needs his first win in net! So I’m definitely hoping for that. Also for the Marlins to finish the season out strong.

6. What is your definition of a perfect weekend?
 Honestly, my perfect weekend would be one spent at home relaxing with all the time in the world to myself.

 

12 minutes ago, Berocka said:

That's really cool. They just started a new hockey league here in Australia and the champs get the Nathan Walker cup. It is honestly kinda sad how he gets no publicity in Australia

It’s great that he has a trophy named after him! He should definitely get more recognition for being the first Australian to ever play in the NHL though. I also heard the AIHL is expanding, should be exciting.

6 hours ago, Berocka said:

@kirbithan what made you choose Brisbane, or an Australian even 

This player is actually a character I made up a while ago, so I thought it’d be fun to bring him to the VHL. Made him an Australian because I was inspired by Nathan Walker and his hockey journey.

Amazing work, bro!! Thank you so much for the sig. 

Lachlan Summers addressing media questions

 

The San Diego Marlins had been looking to expand their roster to close out a hard-fought, competitive regular season. One of the new additions is Australian goaltender Lachlan Summers, who was put on the international hockey prospect map for his showy goaltender play in the AIHL, as well as time spent representing his home country at the World Championships.

 

Sources had recently caught up with Summers and sat down with him for a short interview after today's practice, regarding how he has acclimated to life across the globe and his journey so far.

 

“San Diego’s a great city. The team welcomed me with open arms and that’s all I could’ve asked for, really,” Summers said as he addressed the media. “I’m looking forward to getting a couple more starts and making a lasting impression in the VHLM. Never played outside of Australia before, and this is not an opportunity I’m going to take for granted.”

 

Summers grew up in a country where there were only 21 rinks in its entirety, making his dedication to the sport that much more impressive. There were long trips to and from practice, a struggle to acquire the proper gear when he was first starting out as a five-year-old, and other forms of adversity that Summers quotes as his catalyst to keep his head up.

 

“I love this sport, and there’s nothing that’s going to keep me from showing that any Aussie can lace up the skates and play.” Summers describes one of his long-term goals is to be an ambassador for ice hockey in Australia and continue to grow the game.

 

On 7/24/2022 at 10:22 AM, jacobcarson877 said:

SAN DIEGO MARLINS PRESS CONFERENCE 

 

Week Ending 7/24/2022 or 7/31/2022

 

Answer 3 questions for 1 capped TPE, all 6 for 2. 
 

1. Well, as I write this, we just have 1 player. How great do you think Minion's save percentage is going to be facing all those shots every game?
 Minion's been a solid goaltender all around so far-- so no doubt, his save percentage is going to be above .900.

2. What is your favourite drink after a long hot day?
 Definitely any kind of fizzy drink. Schweppes in particular, if I can get my hands on a can.

3. How have you been keeping yourself busy these days?

Playing video games.

4. Since this is the last week of the month, what has been the best thing that happened to you this month?

My answer might be a little boring-- but the best thing that happened this month was finally getting around to spending more time with friends and family.

5. What is something you've always wanted to get into, but never got around to it?

Learning how to play the drums.

6. Which team do you think will surprise us all come the playoffs?
The Reapers. They've been looking poised for a solid playoff run, I reckon.

 

17 minutes ago, Ricer13 said:

Bro this is fantastic work! Nice job

Thank you so much, man! I really appreciate it. 

 

Lachlan Summers 

#50

G | 6’1 | 174 lbs.

 

Born and raised in Brisbane, Australia, Lachlan Summers’ hockey story is an unconventional one. Hockey coverage in his home country was scarce, but the Aussie’s love for the sport ignited when browsing the internet with his older sister and coming across a Stanley Cup Final highlight reel at the age of 5. Having played rugby, he appreciated the same grittiness and physicality of hockey and wanted to learn more.

 

Although there were only a total of 21 ice rinks in the entirety of Australia, Lachlan’s heart was set on learning the ins and outs of the game. His mother and his sister, although perplexed by his decision to dedicate himself to a sport that was one of the least popular in their country, both fully supported his dream. During his try out for a small local junior team, the coach had realized they were short a goalie. Deciding it could be worth his while, Lachlan volunteered. After taking a shot directly off his mask, he didn’t flinch, nor was he fazed, which convinced the coach that Lachlan was going to be their second goaltender. The Aussie was able to show off his prowess with time and ended up rising up the ranks quickly, to the point he was playing against kids who were up to 6 years older than him and dominating in net.

 

With his slender build, Lachlan is most known for his acrobatic saves and utilizing his glove to its fullest capacity. Being agile is his strong suit. He is often described as having a stoic, “cool” demeanor, unable to be rattled, and often drew some comparisons to an android/robot from teammates and coaches alike. Although there were positive connotations stemming from the little “Android” nickname, there came chirping and negative connotations, as well, but Lachlan always committed to never taking what others think about him too close to heart— or at least, not to let it show.

 

At the age of 16, Lachlan began his journey to the pros by starting in the Australian Ice Hockey League (AIHL). He also represented Australia at the youth and senior level, cementing his place in Australian ice hockey history as a staple of those rosters for many years and potentially more to come. He played four years as the Sydney Bears’ starting goaltender, but his third season was cut short by a hamstring injury near the tail end of the campaign, resulting in a heartbreaking playoff exit. He committed his offseason to rehabbing, before taking the ice again at the start of his fourth year. 

 

After a stellar season and a championship win when rebounding from injury during year 4, Lachlan caught glances from multiple VHLM scouts and teams, eager to make the leap to North America. After careful consideration of his options, he eventually signed with the San Diego Marlins when approached to be a part of their goalie tandem, and is now on the path towards the VHL.

 

492 words

 

 

23 minutes ago, jacobcarson877 said:

Hi! Welcome to the league! I am the GM for the San Diego Marlins, and I can offer you a spot in a tandem. I've got a very empty team and although we won't be fighting in the playoffs I can offer you a great chance to learn the site and get prepared for the drafts in the offseason. Quote this and reply with #jointhebigfish and I'll send you a standard contract!

 

#jointhebigfish

Player Information

Username: kirbithan

Player Name: Lachlan Summers

Recruited From: YouTube

Age: 20

Position: G

Height: 73 in.

Weight: 174 lbs.

Birthplace: Australia

Player Page

@VHLM GM