S87 Cologne Express Jersey Retirements and Honorary Hall of Fame inductions (plus S88 Team Captains!)

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Ladies and gentlemen, players, managers, and fans of the Cologne Express, it has been far too long since we had an announcement like this. But it is my great honor to be here today to celebrate the induction of two great players into our Hall of Fame: Zeljko Ranogajec and Budnik McDangle.

@ColeMrtz, @Budnik

 

As stated in the previous time we had an announcement such as this, "the VHL has [...] gone away from jersey retirements", but maybe that shouldn't be the case for the VHLE. We're at a turning point in this league, as we edge closer to reaching its 10-season anniversary. Maybe this won't be celebrated by many, but those involved in its growth know what it took to get here and what it takes and will take to further improve the VHLE.

 

Being inducted into a team's Hall of Fame is a significant achievement, and it's not an easy task, especially when it comes to the Cologne Express. The Express has a storied history with numerous successful seasons, and only the very best of the best earn a place in the Hall of Fame. But what does it mean to be the best? The best players usually play in the VHLE for one season or skip it entirely. To be inducted into the Hall of Fame and have your jersey retired, you need to be committed to the team, help it improve, and be a role model for future generations of players.

 

Today, we're here to induct two players that embody this spirit.

 

Zeljko Ranogajec was a defensive stalwart for the Express, patrolling our blue line with unmatched intensity and skill. He was a leader both on and off the ice, and his contributions to our team are immeasurable. In his four seasons with us, Zeljko played 288 regular season games, scoring an impressive 326 points. His offensive prowess was matched only by his defensive prowess, and he was a key factor in our success during his tenure with us. He wore the number 21 with pride, and we are proud to retire that number in his honor. This induction has been left on the back burner for far too long, but like everything in life, better late than never. I'm the one standing and inducting Zeljko, but I don't think anyone could have done this better than our former GMs, Chris Miller, and Dan Montgomery. @Advantage, @BarzalGoat

 

 

 

 

Budnik McDangle was a true magician with the puck, dazzling opponents with his speed and skill. He wasn't a pure goal scorer, but his ability to chase the puck on offense was second to none. In his four seasons with us, Budnik played 288 regular season games, scoring 135 points. His numbers may not have been as high as Zeljko's, but his impact on our team was just as great - even after he left. He faced significant obstacles during his first two seasons, but he persevered and overcame them. His determination and resilience made him a better player, and one of the very best to ever play in the VHLE. We are honored to retire his number, 93, in recognition of his tremendous contributions to the team and the embodiement of our spirit.

 

 

 

 

They are being inducted into our Hall of Fame not only for their individual accomplishments but for their contributions to the team as a whole. They were leaders on and off the ice, and they helped to create a culture of excellence that still exists in our organization today. Their dedication, passion, and commitment to the team are an inspiration to all of us.

 

So, on behalf of the entire organization, I want to thank Zeljko and Budnik for all they have done for us. Your contributions to our team will never be forgotten, and your jerseys will hang in our rafters, alongside the names of Kameron Taylor, Ron World Peace, and Thomas O'Malley, as a reminder of your greatness. Congratulations on your induction into the Cologne Express Hall of Fame, and thank you for being such an important part of our history.

 

And while they couldn't achieve the biggest goal we set for the Express at the beginning of every season, the timing of these inductions couldn't be better as we also will be raising our first VHLE Champions banner on opening night.

 

But our team is not only composed of players. In any business you go to, in any line of work you spend your time... you know the most important factor is always the people involved. That's why we are honored to induct two more individuals into our Hall of Fame, with an honorary jersey retirement. It is, again, my great honor to celebrate the induction of two great individuals into our Hall of Fame.

 

Minion, with the honorary jersey number 71, and Sam, with the number 100.

@UnknownMinion, @samx

 

The captain of a team is a vital role in any sport. They are responsible for leading their team both on and off the field, setting an example for their teammates to follow. The first captain of a team holds a special place in history, as they were the first to wear the captain's "C" and take on this important leadership role. The first captain sets the tone for the team, and their legacy can inspire future captains for years to come, Minion did that with Nathaniel and we couldn't be more proud to have them here.

 

Now, Sam. What can be said about her influence on our team? Many of you are tied up with the Samsurance and the effects it may have upon our Lord and Savior, SimonT. But Samsurance means something different to anyone that holds or feels it. For the Express, Samsurance means unwavering support. Every team needs a passionate supporter, someone who embodies the spirit and enthusiasm of the franchise. The biggest supporter of a team is someone who goes above and beyond to support their team, whether it's by being the most active in the LR, or simply spreading positivity and encouragement... someone who makes the team feel like a community.

 

Samsurance is just the marketing name for Sam's support, and we, the Cologne Express, couldn't be happier to have her fandom and unwavering support. The team would be missing a vital piece of what makes it so special. So here's to the biggest supporters out there, the ones who show up and cheer on their team through thick and thin. You are the heart and soul of every team.

 

To finish this presentation on another great note, I'd like to present our three captains for this upcoming season. These individuals have been selected for their leadership abilities, their commitment to the team, and their outstanding performance on and off the ice. Without further ado, let me introduce our captains:

 

First, we have Keon Jeannot, who will be our team captain. Keon might be a rookie in the VHLE, but he is an excellent leader both on and off the ice, and he has the respect of all his teammates. Keon is a fierce competitor, and his dedication to the game is an inspiration to all of us. We are confident that he will lead our team to success this season. @Lucas antonLucas

 

Next, we have Justin Lion, who will be our assistant captain. Justin is one of the most talented players in the league, and he has been a key player for us since he joined the team. He has an incredible work ethic, and a natural ability between the posts. We are thrilled to have him as one of our captains this season. @Emperor_Fun

 

Last but not least, we have Lorenzo Cobberson, who will also be our assistant captain. Lorenzo is still a rising, yet established star in the VHLE, and has quickly become one of the most respected players in the league. Lorenzo has a unique ability on the ice and we are hoping this season without his brother, David, who moved up to the VHL, will be another jump for him. We are confident that she will be an excellent captain for us this season. @Hendrix Cobberson

 

Together, Keon, Justin, and Lorenzo will lead our team to success this season. They have the experience, talent, and leadership skills necessary to guide our team to victory. We are honored to have them as our captains, and we know that they will make us all proud. So, let's give a round of applause to our captains, and let's get ready for a great season!

 

Choo Choo!

[BarzalGoat 728]

Love the recognition for Zeljko and Budnik! Happy to see the express still chugging along. Can’t believe Minion finally got the recognition he’s been begging for lol