Family business.

[leandrofg 1,175]

What is a hockey player supposed to do during the offseason? If you're part of a family creating their legacy around the VHL world... you get together.

 

The Goncalves clan was spotted having lunch atop the Waldorf Astoria in Beverly Hills. The Rooftop by JG, with its views of the Los Angeles skyline and relaxed atmosphere, has long been a favorite setting for family reunions and business meetings. Again, the rooftop appears to have served as the backdrop for a heartfelt family reunion.

 

It's been a good few years for the family business.

 

As Leandro takes a step back from his career and spends more time following Maverick. The former player finds himself navigating a new role as manager, focusing his energy on guiding Maverick through the same difficulties he faced.

 

Maverick had an outstanding season, quickly making a name for himself in the league with his brilliant skills. As one of the frontrunners for the prestigious Christian Stolzschweiger Trophy, the only reason he hasn't exceeded expectations is because they were sky-high. Even with Leandro's presence, Maverick's talent has allowed him to slowly step out of his father's shadow. This father-son duo is proving to be a force, with many believing that Maverick's journey to greatness is just beginning.

 

After posting MVP-like numbers in her S94 campaign, many doubted Catia's ability to replicate her success. Her detractors pointed to the lack of quality in the team's roster as the reason she managed to achieve those numbers, but they can't say the same anymore. The winger surpassed 100 points for the second straight season, with 50+ goals and assists, and cemented herself as one of the most important assets in Calgary.

 

Those same Calgary Wranglers are led by none other than Zef Goncalves. The road for the General Manager hasn't been easy after inheriting an older but still great team from Kris Rice. After winning the 1st seed in the North American conference during his first season, Zef has failed to make the playoffs until their 5th place this season. But just as in S92, the Wranglers didn't advance past their first opponent.

 

As the family continues to thrive, it's evident that their success goes beyond individual accomplishments. Whether it's Maverick making his mark as a rising star, Catia proving her value in Calgary, or Zef navigating the challenges of team management, this reunion was a reminder that their bond is bigger than the VHL.

 

It was expected that not much would change for any of these members, as they've stated their value and importance in their respective roles. Instead, an idea emerged, coming from a place in Europe that one of these members calls home, and little did they know, it would impact them all.

 

During one of the conversations between Menace's GM Euron Leonidas and Leandro, the possibility of Catia moving back to Europe and playing with her nephew emerged. Leandro tried to make this happen when his sister was first drafted in S90 by the Riga Reign, but they never managed to share the ice.

 

But during that reunion, Leandro shared the idea with the table, and the pieces fell into place. Maverick loved the idea of playing alongside family, as did Catia, even if she was suspicious at first, and Zef had his problems in Calgary with cap constraints and roster makeup. In the end, a moment of silence fell upon that table, but as they contemplated the city of Angels skyline, they all agreed that this was going to happen.

 

Zef and Calgary have acquired the final pieces to complete their roster for the upcoming season.

 

Catia and Maverick will be playing together for a competitive team in the European conference.

 

Leandro just established their family business.