All-Banija Sports Magazine

[Banija]

Greater Banijan Hockey League Season 9 - Basic Information & Rosters

Welcome to Season 9 of the Greater Banijan Hockey League! This league is now a 20 team league, divided into two conferences- the Southwest and the North Conference. With the distinct lack of winter in Banija, this league consists of teams from across the multiverse, playing in various Banijan migrant communities that are part of other nations. There are currently 20 teams in 17 different countries- only four of them in Banija(and three of them are expansion teams)

Teams play an 8 game round robin against conference opponents only 72 regular season games. 2 points for a win, 1 for a draw. This season all games will end in 60 minutes- there are no shootouts, just regulation draws, regulation wins, and regulation losses.

With expansion of the league, the GBHL is expanding the playoffs. The top team in each conference is declared the conference champion. The other playoff spots go to the #2 teams in each conference, plus the next 4 best teams overall. 8 teams, all entering in the first round. It will be seeded- 1v8, 2v7, etc... (although the 1 and 2 seeds must be conference champions). The first round series will be a best of 5, while the semifinal and Championship series will be a Best of 7.

As for HCL Qualification, the two regular season conference champions, plus the two teams in the Championship Series will go to the HCL. If there is overlap, of course, spots go to the highest seeds remaining who lost in the Semifinal rounds.

Southwest Division

St. Jakob Crusaders
Location: St.Jakob, Siovanija & Teusland
Stadium: Prenzlauer Eispalast, Capacity of 17,500

The Crusaders are located in one of Siovanija's most important cities, St.Jakob. It is a large city, with a metropolitan population of nearly 4 million people. This sport is one that is certainly king in Siovanija & Teusland- the country's most popular sporting league is the Ehrenliga, their national, top-flight hockey league. And at the national team level, they've won a threepeat of World Cups of Hockey. The city has two teams in the Ehrenliga already, the St.Jakob Saints and EHC Kosmopolit, who are both well supported, though the Saints are generally recognized as having the bigger fanbase.

In terms of the Banijans in the city, most of them are working class. Many work in the dockyards and other industrial jobs, but make a fairly decent living for themselves. There are an estimated 60,000 Banijans in St.Jakob, a coastal city in the Glorious Southwest. As one of the larger migrant communities, it is a community that is fairly well integrated into Siovanijan life, and therefore are expected to be very supportive of the team. Most of the Banijans live in Marienfelde, a neighborhood on the north bank of the River Drai, which runs right along the coast of St.Jakob and Teusland in general. The neighborhood has become an ethnic Banijan neighborhood, with many Banijan restaurants and a Puritan Mormon temple opening up there.

Easily the league's most successful franchise without a title, they are hoping desperately for one.

Trophy Cabinet
Playoff Appearances: 7 (Seasons 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 )
HCL Appearances: 6 (Seasons 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8 )
Conference Titles: 6 (Seasons 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8 )
League Titles: None

Head Coach: Molatedi Tirotsaone. 54 years old.
Goaltender: Adama Sanko. Age 29.
Line 1
Right Defense: Gilead Obuo. Age 33
Left Defense: Mugaba Ssejemba. Age 27
Right Wing: Okello Muluku. Age 25
Center: Onyango Jow. Age 35. Captain.
Left Wing: Nyatui Ssekisozi. Age 28
Line 2
Right Defense: Zion Ahenda. Age 26
Left Defense: Tekoa Akinyi. Age 20
Right Wing: Orlando Owuor. Age 19
Center: Marcus Samba. Age 31
Left Wing: Joniah Olango. Age 24

Mansfield Warriors
Location: Mansfield, Commonwealth of Baker Park
Stadium: Bartlett Arena

We'll go to Mansfield, on the eastern side of the Commonwealth of Baker Park. Technically, of course, this is the only team in the division that is not in the Southwest, as Baker Park is in central Atlantian Oceania. This was one of the first cities that was on the BHF's expansion wish list last season, and they got it. In Kabaka Mwanga's state visit to the Commonwealth of Baker Park, the city and the community played host to His Majesty for a few hours. Most Banijans are generally working class in the city, a city that is known for its automobile production. The city, of course, has been very welcoming to Banijans, as they certainly needed extra hands.

Many Banijans face good prospects, with good, union pay working on the lines, and excellent public schools for their children to attend, as they are eligible to attend Baker Park public universities. The Mansfield side got more support from the locals than many teams got, as both the Commonwealth Hockey Association, their professional league, and the Commonwealth Hockey Federation, their national governing body, were both enthusiastic partners in the venture. The local CHA hockey side, the Mansfield Maroons, have also shown their support, giving the team a generous stadium-sharing agreement.

The Maroons and the CHF have each taken a 1/6th ownership venture, meaning that 1/3rd of the side will be owned by local investors. The local Mansfield Puritan Temple owns slightly less than 1/6th of the side as well, while Banijan millionaire investor Isaac Labamba, an avid hockey fan who has family in Mansfield, has taken a 50%+! ownership stake in the team, and made himself majority owner. Labamba said that he was 'excited' for the partnership, and that working with the Maroons and the CHF will allow his team to garner support from Banijans all across the country, as well as ensure its success by making sure that the partnership between the GBHL, the CHF, his side, and the Maroons, runs smoothly. It is a stable situation that has worked in the past, and looks likely to continue to work.

Trophy Cabinet
Playoff Appearances: 5 (Seasons 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 )
HCL Appearances: 3 (Season 5, 6, 7)
Conference Titles: 1 (Season 7)
League Titles: 1 (Season 7)

Head Coach: Maatla Setso. 76 years old.
Goaltender: Muhangi Jjemba Age 31
Line 1
Right Defense: Sera Mukuuma. Age 21
Left Defense: Jokadu Kitaya. Age 20
Right Wing: Paul Misiani. Age 31. Captain.
Left Wing: Jimiyu Binjogoli. Age 36
Center: Akiiki Muwamba. Age 36
Line 2
Right Defense: Katungi Musanalumbwa. Age 23
Left Defense: Tukesiga Kisala. Age 24
Right Wing: Kusemererwa Kisanje. Age 25
Left Wing: Rokani Kaswaswa. Age 29
Center: Mulogo Mufuumuula Age. 29

Stalliongrad Mountaineers
Location: Stalliongrad, Equestrian States

Naturally, of course, we have the Equestrian States. Stalliongrad, home to so many of Banija's Winter Olympians, plays host to one of the league's original sides. In the shadow of the Harmony Mountains, as the Winter Olympiad is around the corner, it is a city home to numerous Banijan Winter Olympians.

Staillionograd is a city that is a mile above sea level. Very cold, and there is plenty of support for hockey. Stallionograd had the highest foreign ratings of the Banija vs. Equestrian States group stage game in the previous World Cup of Hockey, where the large portion of Banijan fans made it a huge rivalry game, at least in these parts.

Stallionograd looks to have good support both from locals and Banijans. There will be hockey talent, and they will be able to draw from a local talent base that is at least decently deep. With hockey and other sports to draw athletes from, they will be able to develop a strong stable of talent here.

On the ice, one of the original franchises of the GBHL started with a lot of success, winning a league title in Season 2 and making 4 straight HCL appearances in this league- amidst 6 straight playoff appearances. However, the last two seasons, they've fallen off drastically, from consistent playoff performers to finishing 2nd from the bottom in their conference two years in a row. They are looking to get back to the big time.

Trophy Cabinet
Playoff Appearances: 6 (Seasons 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6)
HCL Appearances: 4 (Seasons 1, 2, 3, 4
Conference Titles: 0
League Titles: 1 (Season 2)

Head Coach: Senyange Katábula. 51 years old.
Goaltender: Katungi Bunyaata. Age 35
Line 1
Right Defense: Kibuuka Nalwamba. Age 27
Left Defense: Nkunda Sevvumwerango. Age 31
Right Wing: Kutaaka Muyanja. Age 24
Left Wing: Émile Leroux. Age 24
Center: Ruhakana Katábula. Age 31. Captain.
Line 2
Right Defense: Najja Mberenge. Age 21
Left Defense: Onyait Kiggye. Age 24
Right Wing: Mugaba Mulima. Age 23
Left Wing: Senyange Muwangwe. Age 30
Center: Kamoga Lubabule. Age 34

Little Istria Tigersharks
Location: Little Istria, TV City, Qasden

And, here we have another longstanding franchise from the Glorious Southwest- the Little istria Tigersharks. Little Istria is an ethnic Banijan neighborhood in TV city, a major city in Qasden. Qasden is Banija's neighbor, and Banija played their Cup of Harmony games in the country in the tournament's most recent edition. The LIttle Istria neighborhood looks like a Banijan outpost- lots of Banijan food, there's even a Puritan LDS temple in the center of the neighborhood.

Little Istria is located in Northwestern TV City. They, like the St.Jakob Crusaders, exist in a large local hockey ecosystem. They are the third hockey team in a city that has the TV City Monarchs and the TVC Clouded Leopards, both playing under the Qasden umbrella in their major domestic ice hockey league.

Of course, in a city with two other fully professional hockey teams, and this being an ethnic neighborhood squad, this will be even tougher than usual to get traction. But that helps in a way- this team will really have to double down on its local Banijan roots to have any sort of success.

Trophy Cabinet
Playoff Appearances: 0
HCL Appearances: 0
Conference Titles: 0
League Titles: 0

Head Coach: Abdoulie Kijeera. 57 years old.
Goaltender: Kaikara Waddiga. Age 37
Line 1
Right Defense: Kadokechi Sunga. Age 37
Left Defense: Banja Tate. Age 21.
Right Wing: Kusemererwa Makino. Age 33
Left Wing: Najja Kattaggye. Age 29
Center: Luzige Muwemba. Age 31
Line 2
Right Defense: Sabiti Ddimirire. Age 28
Left Defense: Akello Ssensawo. Age 30
Right Wing: Kutaaka Nsobya. Age 32
Left Wing: Kintu Lutwama. Age 21
Center: Katuramu Buyondo. Age 26

Gold Coast Thunder
Location: Gold Coast, Northwest Kalactin

In this team, we have the return of the GBHL to a city that was once abandoned- The Gold Coast, in Northwest Kalactin. The former capitol city of Northwest Kalactin, it is no longer the capitol since Northwest Kalactin no longer has a government. There is a decent sized Banijan community in the Gold Coast, number around 35,000 Banijans. The GBHL used to be here, hosting the Gold Coast Whalers.

But after ownership situation forced the franchise to fold, a concerted effort was started to bring another team back to the Gold Coast. This time, with the help of former Gold Coast City FC Owner and WCC President Adama Sowe, who is a Banijn, the effort to bring another hockey team to the Gold Coast was successful. The team ownership is split- 50% belongs to the Gold Coast LDS Temple, and 50% belongs to Adama Sowe. With a more stable ownership situation, many are confident that this team will be able to be a long term cornerstone of this league for years to come.

Trophy Cabinet
Playoff Appearances: 0
HCL Appearances: 0
Conference Titles: 0
League Titles: 0

Head Coach: Serrekunda Secka. 44 years old.
Goaltender: Mita Kuba. Age 26
Line 1
Right Defense: Kayluntang Cuih. Age 36. Captain.
Left Defense: Bunjaa Susaleed. Age 19
Right Wing: Ochen Kalamazi. Age 22
Left Wing: Alex Aan. Age 29
Center: Cheboh Baru. Age 26
Line 2
Right Defense: Daba Banseh. Age 35
Left Defense: Kamuneh Maseya. Age 30
Right Wing: Kanifing Faho. Age 34
Left Wing: Jebel Dijih. Age 19
Center: Koparoo Suso. Age 22

Kapetägien Kestrels
Location: Kapetägien, Geisenfred

The Kestrels- the closest team to Banija's borders. A city located in our neighbor to the East, Geisenfred, it is a region that is home to many Banijans, both permanent migrants and many refugees from the Banijan-Equestrian War. As Banija's only land neighbor, they are expected to be a very well supported side within the few hockey fans that actually reside within Banija's borders themselves. That is because, of course, the geographical proximity between Banija and Geisenfred.

The Kestrels are owned by Ingrid Baloma, the league's only female owner. She is an investor within the city, and she is half-Banijan, born in Geisenfred to a Geis mother and a Banijan father. Baloma is expected to aggressively recruit fans throughout the region and the country in Geisenfred, as she's stated that she 'fully expects' her team to compete for titles almost straight from the get go.

Trophy Cabinet
Playoff Appearances: 0
HCL Appearances: 0
Conference Titles: 0
League Titles: 0

Head Coach: Alasana Sisawo. 51 years old.
Goaltender: Kasi Kunoe. Age 27
Line 1
Right Defense: Dodou Mbode. Age 34
Left Defense: Ngor Safujakaya. Age 26
Right Wing: Tadi Kasuza. Age 32. Captain.
Left Wing: Moli Kumate. Age 33
Center: Saiarr Janha. Age 18
Line 2
Right Defense: Willie Jallow. Age 26
Left Defense: Sutay Banka. Age 33
Right Wing: Lallo Baluteho. Age 23
Left Wing: Sittafa Dira. Age 20
Center: Bakau Melo. Age 18

Shakmir Whalers
Location: Shakmir, Timuria
Stadium: Şamkir Kış Sporları Merkezi, Capacity of 6,000

This team is located in Timuria, which Banija shares our northern border with. Adding some geographical compactness to the league, they of course were added to the Southwestern Division, which precipitated the move of the New Istria Eagles to the North Division. They have a unique ownership structure as well. The team is structured as a worker co-operative. Co-operatives, while nearly non-existent in Banija, are not something that could be called rare in Timuria. How did this team form, then? It was players who played in a local adult recreational hockey league who decided to all go in together, financially, to set this up.

While you could not call the club fan owned, this co-operative has spent time integrating itself with the community. "This team is going to represent Shamkir well, and I believe that we can connect to both Banijan and non-Banijan locals quite well here" said the Club Chairman. And they have spent this offseason mounting an aggressive campaign, trying to drum up support for the squad within the city. Attending events at the local temple, of course, is the best way to connect to the local Banijan community, and they have done that quite well. But they have had an aggressive campaign targeting youth, as well. They have visited local schools, ran hockey and ice skating camps at their arenas, and visited local community events and fairs.

Will they catch on? We'll have to wait and see. They are confident that they will, and they believe that the team can become a 'fixture of the league' and a 'staple of the community' fairly quickly.

Trophy Cabinet
Playoff Appearances: 1 (Season 7)
HCL Appearances: 0
Conference Titles: 0
League Titles: 0

Head Coach: Yorro Dumbuya. 43 years old.
Goaltender: Jawaroo Darte. Age 18
Line 1
Right Defense: Caku Fanla. Age 28
Left Defense: Isaka Sisofiaeo. Age 30
Right Wing: Joylord Nyauchi. Age 24.
Left Wing: Botongo Jawara. Age 34. Captain.
Center: Farimang Aya. Age 24
Line 2
Right Defense: Kandita Tollo. Age 37
Left Defense: Hadim Dejta. Age 36
Right Wing: Falla Jabang. Age 37
Left Wing: Lang Suware. Age 28
Center: Kiang Kumamu. Age 36

Istria Golden Bears
Location: Istria, Moravica
Stadium: Blue Thunder Ice Hockey Arena, capacity of 5,500.

Of course, the first professional ice hockey team to play permanently on home soil. There has been a push for a while, and finally, the stars have aligned. Of course, this team has certainly faced challenges- the lack of winter in the city, and the country, makes it hard to generate home-grown players. OF course, this is the modern era, it doesn't mean there's no ice. But it is harder to recruit players, it is harder to recruit fans, even in Banija's biggest media market. The Golden Bears, although obviously drawing on a much larger population, certainly started at a marked disadvantage.

As they have started to have limited success on the ice, and particularly with the increased success of the national team, the popularity of this team has exploded- they hope to take advantage with the team's first ever playoff berth.

Trophy Cabinet
Playoff Appearances: 0
HCL Appearances: 0
Conference Titles: 0
League Titles: 0

Head Coach: Lafi Maseya. 56 years old.
Goaltender: Fara Sanjeh. Age 36
Line 1
Right Defense: Konkoo Kunde. Age 26
Left Defense: Kebba Marong. Age 29. Captain
Right Wing: Mamur Fanja. Age 32
Left Wing: Kausu Banje. Age 22
Center: Gunjur Banura. Age 18
Line 2
Right Defense: Nyambi Ku. Age 30
Left Defense: Sainey Subalo. Age 24
Right Wing: Ismaela Jawo. Age 34
Left Wing: Halifa Gaye. Age 26
Center: Liyo Jawo Age. 37

Milran Serin Mariners
Location: Milran Serin, Valanora

The first of our four expansion teams we're introducing in the GBHL this season! Going to the northern Valanora port city of Milran Serin- not a place with the glitz and the glamour of a world-famous town like Raynor City, but it represents continued Banijan sporting interest in Valanora- building on the backs of the GFLB team down in Mar Sara.

This is a working-class town, with a large Audioslav diaspora, and a sizeable Banijan population as well. The Banijan population here, however, is quite different from Banijan migrant populations elsewhere. Banijans living in Valanora are much more likely to be secular- and that is true in this town, where the LDS temple, while existing, is just sparsely intended on Sundays. Despite that, there is still a lot of national pride for this country in what is clearly a very diverse city.

The team itself is owned by World Cup 93 champion, and former Testiculo at right back, as well as Raynor City United star, Tairu Conateh- who spent a few years of his childhood living in the city.

Trophy Cabinet
Playoff Appearances: Expansion
HCL Appearances: Expansion
Conference Titles: Expansion
League Titles: Expansion

Head Coach: Ekka Damba. 48 years old.
Goaltender: Bamba Ny. Age 20
Line 1
Right Defense: Steve Kuje. Age 19
Left Defense: Demboo Susawa. Age 29. Captain.
Right Wing: Bora Kolo. Age 22
Left Wing: Benjamin Kusamy. Age 30
Center: Sosseh Kolo. Age 27
Line 2
Right Defense: Desmon Danso. Age 24
Left Defense: Arjana Komi. Age 19
Right Wing: Fabala Danso. Age 27
Left Wing: Lolong Kuja. Age 28
Center: Karanta Danee. Age 31

Busukuma Bulldogs
Location: Busukuma, National Capitol Region, Banija
Stadium: The Doghouse, capacity of 5,500

Finally! Banijan hockey fans celebrate as the league, and the NT, has finally brought us what many of us have been waiting for- growth at home! Yes, it is, indeed, possible, as there are a wild three expansion teams, right here at home, in Banija! The first, of course, is in our nation's capitol, and suddenly this country's 2nd largest city- Busukuma. With the city becoming more metropolitan, and with the most recent WCoH run helping really grow the sport, it's nice to have a new place to play home games, and a new city that's taken on the sport.

There is a lot of excitement with hockey in Busukuma. "It's going to be a hell of a time- Bulldogs forever!" Said a kid at the team launch, with all the gusto of a lifelong fan even though, at that point, the team had existed for all of 5 minutes. We'll see what kind of interest it can generate in one of the country's most crowded sports scenes.

Trophy Cabinet
Playoff Appearances: Expansion
HCL Appearances: Expansion
Conference Titles: Expansion
League Titles: Expansion

Head Coach: George Columbus. Age 47.
Goaltender: Sanjani Jarju Age 33
Line 1
Right Defense: Madikeh Mecuyasa. Age 23
Left Defense: Bunja Ny. Age 35
Right Wing: Makang Kutaye. Age 25
Left Wing: Kemoring Falti. Age 30. Captain.
Center: Baboucar Faitayoh. Age 26
Line 2
Right Defense: Kanjura Koju. Age 30
Left Defense: Salmina Coybari. Age 28
Right Wing: Alex Jabang. Age 32
Left Wing: Wandi Jasaibeh. Age 36
Center: Farafenni Badjie. Age 27

North Conference

Quebec Grizzlies
Location: Quebec City, Quebec & Shingoyreo

Quebec City- the capitol of the Royal Kingdom of Quebec. Banija's relations with the Royal Kingdom of Quebec go back further than their relations with any other nation, and the history of Banija is intertwined with the history of Quebec(though the reverse certainly isn't true). The Shingoyreoite Empire, of course, was Banija's colonizing power, and Banija was under the rule of Quebecois Kings for over 100 years, until independence was fully achieved in 1910.

This is a metropolitan area with a large number of Banijans, numbering around half a million in the area, and probably somewhere around 2 million in the country at-large. It was actually a very large surprise that they did not get chosen for an expansion franchise in season 1- however, them being chosen for Season 2 makes sense. Quebec City, of course, is also the seat of the Quebecois Commonwealth of Nations, a likeminded cultural association for nations that were once under the rule of those who throne was in Quebec City.

The international headquarters for the International Hockey Federation, of course, are located in this nation. The IHF's VP is the league's "founding father" and the man considered the pioneer for Banijan ice hockey, Muhoozi Kutoumbo, and he is an frequent attendee at their games. Many Banijan hockey players already hail from this country, as this region and Montreal, before the start of the GBHL, were the two metropolitan areas where most Banijan hockey players came from. This team is, of course, expected to be extremely competitive starting out, and expects to garner a lot of fan support fairly early on from the community.

Trophy Cabinet
Playoff Appearances: 5 (Season 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 )
HCL Appearances: 5 (Season 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 )
Conference Titles: 4 (Season 4, 5, 6, 7)
League Titles: 2 (Seasons 5, 8 )

Head Coach: Jelany Chinelo. 52 years old. Former Player.
Goaltender: Aziz Sarr. Age 36
Line 1
Right Defense: Idirissa Sawolu. Age 22
Left Defense: Joseph Bah. Age 23
Right Wing: Jikindi Jula. Age 23
Left Wing: Baldeh Duroyl. Age 33
Center: Mukasa Ssebanja. Age 31. Captain.
Line 2
Right Defense: Daraman Guissé. Age 29
Left Defense: Abdoulie Sebuya. Age 36
Right Wing: Musa Balde. Age 20
Left Wing: Mansor Jais. Age 27
Center: Sukuta Komi. Age 31

Maal Pioneers
Location: Maal, Mriin

A unique migrant community, they have a different history in Mriin than most of Banija's other migrant communities.

The original Banijans to visit Mriin were not economic refugees, nor even were they recent refugees from the war- no, the Banijans in Maal went to Mriin as missionaries. Plenty of Puritan Mormon missionaries went to Mriin to try and spread the faith, and they ended up living in the country. While there are Banijans throughout the country, the epicenter is in Maal, which is one of the nation's largest cities. There are an estimated 200,000 ethnic Banijans who are living in Maal, and almost all of them Mormon.

It is the Banijans who brought Christian influence into the country- though they have had much more of a cultural effect. Most Mormons in the country are Banijan, so whether or not the historic mission efforts were a success is up for debate- however, the cultural effects cannot be ignored. Christmas and Easter traditions in the country, for example, heavily borrow on the Puritan Mormon traditions of the holidays. The team itself is unique in its nature, owned by fans- with 5,000 people buying a stake in the team, for as little as $1,000 NSDs per share. After another share offering, there are 9,000 listed owners of the Pioneers.

Trophy Cabinet
Playoff Appearances: 2 (Seasons 4, 5)
HCL Appearances: 0
Conference Titles: 0
League Titles: 0

Head Coach: Monnieemang Ontlametse. 71 years old.
Goaltender: Makang Siwangeh. Age 27
Line 1
Right Defense: Bubcarr Damfa. Age 35
Left Defense: Muna Baiera. Age 37
Right Wing: Mamo Daruya. Age 19
Left Wing: Numu Beword. Age 23
Center: Keemoo Badjie. Age 23
Line 2
Right Defense: Kandita Tuidehybido. Age 26
Left Defense: Pa Bybuya. Age 34
Right Wing: Malick Kang. Age 18
Left Wing: Kitim Sisawo. Age 20
Center: Banjul Bafawali. Age 23

Schemerdrecht Caribou
Schemerdrecht, Ko-oren

The Caribou are now firmly planted as a core franchise within the GFLB. They are a team started with heavy local buy-in. Schemerdrecht city officials approached the GBHL when the GBHL announced that they were looking for a 14th franchise(although now there at 16), and it is a partnership that clicked almost immediately. A venue was lined up very quickly, a team name was chosen, and they are able to generate a fanbase well beyond the Banijan community.

This is probably the team that is the least reliant on the diaspora- while there is a decent sized diaspora community in the city's metropolitan area, without a local hockey team in the city, many Ko-orenites support it- although there is controversy about the fact that the GBHL beat Ko-oren's own domestic hockey league to the city. Still, support from key stakeholders will make it difficult for the Caribou to be anything other than a success.

Trophy Cabinet
Playoff Appearances: 3 (Seasons 5, 6, 8 )
HCL Appearances: 2 (Seasons 5, 8 )
Conference Titles: 0
League Titles: 0

Head Coach: Kobamelo Baikathudi. 55 years old.
Goaltender: Gomolemo Pusoetsile. Age 34,
Line 1
Right Defense: Esau Kayange. Age 25.
Left Defense: Barrow Menda. Age 28
Right Wing: Alkalo Yah. Age 37
Left Wing: Muhammad Ngoche. Age 30. Captain.
Center: Haruna Barubiya. Age 31
Line 2
Right Defense: Karanta Bamare. Age 30
Left Defense: Nyambi Dare. Age 32
Right Wing: Yorro Dudujala. Age 37
Left Wing: Malick Sibidwa. Age 37
Center: Amata Kang. Age 22 (Banijan/Quebecois dual-national)

Jaromirgrad Huskies
Location: Jaromirgrad, Savojarna

Yet another Rushmori squad, it is a team that is a distance away but that simply made sense when it came down to it. Let's take a look at the Banijan diaspora community in the city. Of course, it is very different- the city is very ethnically Russian and Orthodox, while of course, Banijans are black skinned and generally Mormon. But of course, those Christian values, even when you talk about two very different parts of Christianity and Mormonism, stick. Popularity in the city is helped by the fact that there's no Savojarna league team here, leading locals to support the side as well.

The Banijan diaspora community Jaromirgrad is similar to Maal's- it is mainly engineers, with large numbers of grads from Banija's biggest universities, like Loyola-Istria and Northern Moravica, taking residence in the city. It is not that large of a city, but when you consider the passion that the country gives to hockey, it automatically makes it a strong market. They have an argument for being the most popular team in the league, due to strong local Savojarnan support for this team, and have parlayed that into consistent success in this league.

Trophy Cabinet
Playoff Appearances: 3 (Season 6, 7, 8 )
HCL Appearances: 3 (Season 6, 7, 8 )
Conference Titles: 1 (Season 8 )
League Titles: 1 (Season 6)

Head Coach: Akia Walugondo. 51 years old.
Goaltender: Trophimus Raila. Age 35
Line 1
Right Defense: Mukasa Nkambo. Age 24
Left Defense: Mbabazi Ssebukyu. Age 31
Right Wing: Akiiki Kaboggoza. Age 25
Left Wing: Ojore Kikanja. Age 26
Center: Okeli Uwaezuoke. Age 28. Captain.
Line 2
Right Defense: Mugaba Masiko. Age 22
Left Defense: Byaitaka Kyegera. Age 36
Right Wing: Kamya Ssendigya. Age 25
Left Wing: Karilisa Ssembiro. Age 25
Center: Ogwambi Miiyimbo. Age 34

Bouveil Barracudas
Location: Bouveil, Myana Island, Chromatika
Stadium: Bouveil Coliseum, capacity of 7,000.

One of the newest franchises in this league! After a long process, Bouveil, a Banijan fishing community located right outside of the much larger city of Limonte, was chosen. After an intensive process by the GBHL to ensure they wouldn't have to retract to 14 for a season, the choice of Bouveil became an easy one. It is a majority-Banijan community, with 30,000 Banijans in the mid-sized town. It is situated outside of the much more major city of Limonte, that is also known for a sizeable Banijan presence. Banijan Katikkiro(Prime Minister) Xolile Lubabalo was said to be an important advocate for the GBHL to look to Chromatika, according to the leaks and rumors. There is expected to be a strong base of both Banijan and national support for the squad.

It is the smallest town in the league- but they make up for it by being the only big league sports game in town. This team has multiple founding sources, but much of the money comes from the local Mormon temple, as well as Alanso Lubabalo, who is the brother-in-law to the aforementioned Xolile Lubabalo. They built their stadium to serve as a multi-purpose arena, essentially to serve as a community sports center during the offseason.

Trophy Cabinet
Playoff Appearances: 0
HCL Appearances: 0
Conference Titles: 0
League Titles: 0

Head Coach: Oidu Lutte. 65 years old.
Goaltender: Tayebwa Mulyowansozi. Age 25
Line 1
Right Defense: Allopu Wentibwa. Age 26
Left Defense: Wasswa Kameketo. Age 22
Right Wing: Kaikara Wanana. Age 33. Captain.
Left Wing: Bitalo Wassaanyi. Age 27
Center: Owole Masenseke. Age 24
Line 2
Right Defense: Ouma Kiggwa. Age 30
Left Defense: Byanruhanga Ssekaayi. Age 20
Right Wing: Galabba Kibulennenza. Age 18
Left Wing: Kabonesa Masengère. Age 26
Center: Tibyangye Bulega. Age 26

New Istria Eagles
Location: New Istria, Darmen

A unique venture, this was the first non-Atlantian Oceania team in the league, located in Rushmore. The largest Banijan migrant community in the country is in New Istria, a city created by the Darmen government for refugees to live in. Despite its distance from Banija, nearly 40,000 refugees from Banija settled in Darmen as a result of the war. While over a million people settled abroad, at least temporarily, during the drought and ensuing Banijan-Equestrian War, this was the largest refugee population for a nation that was outside of Atlantian Oceania.

The two nations played in a mid World Cup Qualification friendly, in Montreal, as the Banijans continued to prepare for the World Cup Finals on home soil. The two nations played in the World Cup Qualification friendly, in Montreal, but more importantly, they played in the opening match of World Cup 81- right here, on home soil, at the brand spanking new Stadium of the Restoration. However, with the large refugee population, there was a push to create a hockey team in New Istria. Of course, considering the city was almost entirely refugees, the financial aspect would prove tough.

A makeshift temple was set up, the New Istria Puritan Temple, the church of the majority of Banijans, and they assumed ownership of the team, on a non-profit basis, of course. The national government of Darmen have built a 7,000 seat multipurpose arena, that houses the professional ice hockey and basketball arena, as well as a public gym on sight, that has two ice rinks on the bottom floor, as well as basketball courts and soccer fields above it. This, of course, will help these people remain connected with their homeland as they continue to settle in Darmen.

The Eagles, one of the league's cash poor teams, look to serve as a unifying force for the many Banijans in the city, who are almost all foreigners in a strange, new land. We'll see if they can be successful, and leverage their support this season to fill out their stadium for their games.

Trophy Cabinet
Playoff Appearances: 0
HCL Appearances: 0
Conference Titles: 0
League Titles: 0

Head Coach: Alanyo Kayingá. 62 years old.
Goaltender: Bategeka Mugaati. Age 35
Line 1
Right Defense: Muwemba Balamaze. Age 26
Left Defense: Byarugaba Kabiswa, Age 34. Captain.
Right Wing: Kiho Kyesiga. Age 27
Left Wing: Oneka Lumala, Age 24.
Center: Kiho Yiga, Age 21
Line 2
Right Defense: Sanyu Mukiise. Age 19
Left Defense: Isingoma Lugonda. Age 30
Right Wing: Senyange Kamaanya. Age 22
Left Wing: Gwandoya Bukuuku. Age 33
Center: Okware Kabuubi. Age 28

Goldstaff Cocodragons
Location: Goldstaff, Cosumar

The Goldstaff Cocodragons are a team of the Banijan diaspora community in Cosumar. They will be playing in Goldstaff, a city in Southwest Cosumar. It is a mid-sized city. Have you not heard of the city? Then you've heard of Crawford, a large port city, about an hour away from Goldstaff. The Bengals, of course, will be playing in a local arena.

The climate of Goldstaff is very similar to the climate of the Banijan mainland. It is semitropical, thanks to the nearby presence of the Everlong RainForest. The Rain Forest is a protected forest in Cosumar. One of the unique aspects of this inland city, is that Goldstaff is home to an animal unique to Cosumar- the feral cocodragon.

The cocodragon is a species of dragon that is unique to Cosumar. Unlike most dragons, it does not have the fire-breathing ability that is unique to the species- so though they can fly, they tend to act like most of the rest of the reptiles. There is a large species of Feral cocodragons in the Goldstaff area, so much so that the team will be named after them, as a nod to the host city.

Trophy Cabinet
Playoff Appearances: 2 (Seasons 2, 3)
HCL Appearances: 2 (Seasons 2, 3)
Conference Titles: 0
League Titles: 0

Head Coach: Baayo Allea. 51 years old.
Goaltender: Samba Darte. Age 28
Line 1
Right Defense: Fande Fayth. Age 18
Left Defense: Fabala Fyl. Age 35. Captain.
Right Wing: Tubab Banura. Age 28
Left Wing: Niumi Subalo. Age 24.
Center: Stephen Koby. Age 19. (Banija/Ranoria dual-national)
Line 2
Right Defense: Stephen Kuri. Age 36
Left Defense: Kunta Jasour. Age 19
Right Wing: Turo Fafi. Age 25
Left Wing: Wasa Tuidehybido. Age 32
Center: Ibou Binie. Age 19

Youngstown Yellowhammers
Location: Youngstown, West Bay, Damukuni
Stadium: Loyola-Youngstown Ice Arena, capacity of 5,100

And now, for the other newest team on the block! There is a major Banijan migrant presence in West Bay, one of Damukuni's largest cities, and mostly located in the sector of West Bay called Youngstown. It is major enough to serve as the focal point for the Mormon church at-large in Esportiva(which, to be fair, isn't saying much). The sizeable community has been demanding a team for a while, but the local bishops encouraged an outside investor, rather than funding the team themselves.

Getting some local sponsorships, they aggressively appealed to Banijans and non-Banijans alike in the City, but it would be a Loyola alumnus who would create the team. Loyola University recently opened their first-ever foreign campus, here in Youngstown. And former Banijan national team Quarterback, and former NSCF player of the year, Isaka Jawara, decided to be the initial investor to get the Yellowhammers off the ground. The first season is always rough, but we'll see if he has the long-term foundations in place.

Trophy Cabinet
Playoff Appearances: 2 (Seasons 7, 8 )
HCL Appearances: 1 (Season 7)
Conference Titles: 0
League Titles: 0

Head Coach: Bontsi Tsholofelo. 49 years old.
Goaltender: Oliver Tuidehybido. Age 22
Line 1
Right Defense: Dankoo Tubabu. Age 20
Left Defense: Basirou Jarl. Age 18
Right Wing: Mufri Dahaba. Age 19
Left Wing: Madikeh Yah. Age 29
Center: Kuto Fimbah. Age 36. Captain.
Line 2
Right Defense: Yeyeh Fara. Age 27
Left Defense: Booti Fanja. Age 29
Right Wing: Modou Sebuya. Age 21
Left Wing: Bah Sima. Age 18
Center: Mamudu Jaboutatayo. Age 32

Sikoboi Athletic Club
Location: Sikoboi, Aksum
Stadium: The North Star Arena, capacity of 7,700

Now, you most certainly have NOT heard of Sikoboi. Sikoboi Athletic Club- who the hell are they? Sikoboi is a remote place- the northwestern most point in Banija, right on the TImurain border, just a few miles of Timuria separating Sikoboi and the Skynation of Demot. And, as a town of 197,000 people, it is actually the largest city in Banija without any professional sports teams. That's right- no pro soccer, no pro basketball, certainly no pro gridiron, and it doesn't even have big-time college sports, with the local university being in D2.

Or should we say- was.

Ironically, this town nobody's heard of actually has a hockey history. Generally, ignored, yes. But North Star Arena was actually built on the site of the first indoor ice rink in all of Banija. Not many people in this country go ice skating, of course- but it was built in order to try and attract foreign tourists. It largely failed (imagine going on a vacation in freaking Sikoboi lmao) but that is history.

Because of that, people have played hockey here as long as they've played anywhere in this nation. Why not??

Trophy Cabinet
Playoff Appearances: Expansion
HCL Appearances: Expansion
Conference Titles: Expansion
League Titles: Expansion

Head Coach: Theodore Sa. Age 67.
Goaltender: Alieu Sabaye. Age 20
Line 1
Right Defense: Mawdo Sanya. Age 36
Left Defense: Tuutoo Ga. Age 23
Right Wing: Balla Mendy. Age 34. Captain.
Left Wing: Mamudu Deh. Age 23
Center: Bango Susaleed. Age 18
Line 2
Right Defense: Ngoja Baso. Age 32
Left Defense: Samaba Hairte. Age 18
Right Wing: Karankallo Kumamu. Age 24
Left Wing: Kasama Fal. Age 18
Center: Sutunkung Colley. Age 36

Dimbogourou Horned Vipers
Location: Dimbogourou, Ankole
Stadium: The Snake's Pit, Capacity of 12,500

First, make sure you say it right- "Dim-bo-go-roo"

Second- Raise your hand if you've heard of Dimbogourou.

*Crickets*

If you have, congratulations! Chances are, you follow the regional league system here in Banija, in soccer. And if so- you're a true sicko. When the GBHL was trying to expand into Banija, obviously it had to have the must-hit cities- Istria first, and then Busukuma. It was going to just go for the next largest cities on the list- Herzegovina City and Jinja City. But when a stadium deal fell through in Herzegovina City, the thinking changed. Why just hit the biggest cities? Why not go to a lot smaller places- maybe with a small-time soccer team, no gridiron to think of, and put your team there?

Small fish in a big pond- or, potentially, big fish in a small pond. And Dimbogourou, well- not exaclty that large of a city. It's not tiny- a hair oer 478,000 people live within the city limits. But that's not anywhere near big enough to have anything like a GFLB team, and the pro hoops team in the city just went bankrupt(a common thing in this country, with the shitshow of a domestic basketball scene setup that we have here). So they said- why not Dimbogourou? 24th largest city in Banija, and barely any suburbs to speak of.

But the residents are excited. "Why not bring in a hockey team- this will be our pride and joy on the world stage!" Said the city's Mayor. There were quite a few people at the rally, and ironically, they've alrady sold out of season tickets. Is a team from this town, of all towns, about to suddenly be the biggest thing to hit international hockey?

Trophy Cabinet
Playoff Appearances: Expansion
HCL Appearances: Expansion
Conference Titles: Expansion
League Titles: Expansion

Head Coach: Gabi Fayth. Age 59.
Goaltender: Faja Fyo. Age 25
Line 1
Right Defense: Bulley Coehowabasbo. Age 33. Captain.
Left Defense: Jikita Coybari. Age 22
Right Wing: Fande Kasama. Age 21
Left Wing: Kemoring Manneh. Age 27
Center: Janko Sata. Age 30
Line 2
Right Defense: Sinajo Tate. Age 36
Left Defense: Koparoo Jabayo. Age 23
Right Wing: Kanifing Kadu. Age 20
Left Wing: Tubab Banje. Age 30
Center: Dembo Darboe. Age 34

Projected Order of Finish
Southwest Conference

1. Mansfield Warriors
2. St. Jakob Crusaders
3. Istria Golden Bears
4. Little Istria Tigersharks
5. Gold Coast Thunder
6. Shakmir Whalers
7. Busukuma Bulldogs
8. Milran Serin Mariners
9. Stalliongrad Mountaineers
10. Kapetägien Kestrels

---

North Conference

1. Schemerdrecht Caribou
2. Jaromirgrad Huskies
3. Quebec Grizzlies
4. Bouveil Barracudas
5. Youngstown Yellowhammers
6. New Istria Eagles
7. Dimbogourou Horned Vipers
8. Sikoboi Athletic Club
9. Maal Pioneers
10. Goldstaff Cocodragons

[Banija]

Greater Banijan Hockey League Season 9 - Regular Season

72 games. 8 games against each team in your conference- if that's not enough time to separate you from your conference rivals, I don't know what to tell you. Let's dive in!

   Southwest                     Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Mansfield Warriors             72   53  10   9   128   42  +86   116 - Southwest Conference champion, HCL berth clinched
 2 St. Jakob Crusaders            72   42  13  17   127   60  +67    97 - Automatic Playoff Bid
 3 Little Istria Tigerhawks       72   36  15  21    93   65  +28    87 - Playoff Berth clinched
 4 Gold Coast Thunder             72   29  17  26    62   81  −19    75 - Playoff Berth clinched
 5 Milran Serin Mariners          72   26  22  24    71   69   +2    74
 6 Shakmir Whalers                72   23  25  24    62   61   +1    71
 7 Istria Golden Bears            72   27  14  31    71   76   −5    68
 8 Busukuma Bulldogs              72   16  19  37    48   78  −30    51
 9 Stalliongrad Mountaineers      72   12  20  40    47  107  −60    44
10 Kapetägien Kestrels            72   10  17  45    40  110  −70    37

Let's start with the Southwest Conference, eh? The Warriors have clinched their 6th straight playoff appearance, and fourth consecutive appearance in the Hockey Champions League, by running away with the Southwest Conference. 116 points over 72 games, 19 points better than the next best team in the Southwest Conference. The 76 year old Head Coach, Maatla Setso, has the team firing on all cylinders. Only conceding 42 times is actually an insane number in a league such as this one- his young defenders are starlets, with Jokadu Kitaya already on the national team, and Sera Mukuuma almost certainly going to make the squad at WCoH 49. It makes them huge favorites, with home-ice advantage throughout the playoffs, to win the GBHL Championship Series.

Who's behind them, you may ask? Another perenially successful team, but one that somehow has not found their hands on the game's ultimate trophy in Banija- the St. Jakob Crusaders. 127 goals scored is good for third in the competition, as they were excellent at putting the puck into the back of the net. Led by their 35 year old center, Onyango Jow, who is captain for both club & country, the Crusaders once again found their way into the playoffs. While they were off pace from Mansfield, they were well ahead of the rest of the comptition, being the #2 overall seed in the entire competition.

Behind them, the Little Istria Tigerhawks comfortably clinched one of the four at-large playoff spots. But the race for fourth in this conference, was extremely tight. It came down to the final day- the expansion team from Valanora, the Milran Serin Mariners, were on the brink of reaching the postseason in their debut season. But they could not- losing to a dominant Mansfield Warriors team on the final day, and allowing the Gold Coast Thunder, out of Northwest Kalactin, to steal the final postseason spot.

Shakmir and Istria were also in the running, and ran out of steam towards the end. But it would be Busukuma, Kapetägien, and Stalliongrad who would bring up the rear in this conference.

   North                         Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Quebec Grizzlies               72   41  14  17   113   59  +54    96 - North Conference Champions, HCL berth clinched
 2 Jaromirgrad Huskies            72   41  11  20   131   72  +59    93 - Automatic Playoff Berth
 3 Schemerdrecht Caribou          72   39  12  21   121   72  +49    90 - Playoff Berth clinched
 4 Bouveil Barracudas             72   36  14  22   108   80  +28    86 - Playoff Berth clinched
 5 Youngstown Yellowhammers       72   24  22  26    75   84   −9    70
 6 New Istria Eagles              72   25  15  32    88   89   −1    65
 7 Sikoboi Athletic Club          72   24  16  32    91  116  −25    64
 8 Dimbogourou Horned Vipers      72   23  16  33    69   97  −28    62
 9 Goldstaff Cocodragons          72   16  15  41    71  132  −61    47
10 Maal Pioneers                  72   16  15  41    55  121  −66    47

Who else? One of the most historic teams in this league, the Quebec Grizzlies, coming on top of the North Conference- and going straight back to the Hockey Champions League. A berth that is both well-earned and well-deserved, wiht this team taking it all the way down. Now, if the Southwest Conference was known for the lack of parity, there was a ton of parity here- at least at the top. 20 points separted first from second in the other conference. And even beyond that. 10 points separated second from third, and 12 points seperated third from fourth. But in this conference? 10 point seperated first from fourth.

It was, for all intents and purposes, a three horse race. The Bouveil Barracudas quite comfortably clinched a playoff spot for themselves as well, leaving no doubt they were a top 8 team in this league- but they were never really in the running for a conference title. Still, for such a young team, the Myana Island team making its first ever playoff appearnace in the GBHL is absolutely a big deal. A great season for them.

What did this season come down to? Simply put, it came down to the Grizzlies getting hot at the right time. Winning 6 in a row, and ultimately 8 of their last 9, allowed them to clinch the conference title in stunning fashion on the last day of the season- simply put, absolutely nobody was in any sort of position to catch them. The Huskies and Caribou also finished the season strong, however, getting themselves playoff berths as well. Finishing above the 90 point mark is always an accomplishment, and they did that.

To the playoffs, baby!

Playoff Standings               Pld     W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
 1 Mansfield Warriors             72   53  10   9   128   42  +86   116 - Southwest Conference champion
 2 Quebec Grizzlies               72   41  14  17   113   59  +54    96 - North Conference Champions
 3 St. Jakob Crusaders            72   42  13  17   127   60  +67    97
 4 Jaromirgrad Huskies            72   41  11  20   131   72  +59    93
 5 Schemerdrecht Caribou          72   39  12  21   121   72  +49    90
 6 Little Istria Tigerhawks       72   36  15  21    93   65  +28    87
 7 Bouveil Barracudas             72   36  14  22   108   80  +28    86
 8 Gold Coast Thunder             72   29  17  26    62   81  −19    75

GBHL First Round Playoff Matchups

First Round Playoff Series are Best of 5

#1 Mansfield Warriors v. #8 Gold Coast Thunder
#4 Jaromirgrad Huskies v. #5 Schemerdrecht Cariobou

#2 Quebec Grizzlies v. #7 Bouveil Barracudas
#3 St. Jakob Crusaders v. #6 Little Istria Tigersharks

[Banija]

Greater Banijan Hockey League Season 9 - Playoffs

GBHL First Round Playoff Scores
First Round Playoff Series are Best of 5

Game 1
Mansfield Warriors 5–0 Gold Coast Thunder
Jaromirgrad Huskies 3–4 Schemerdrecht Caribou
Quebec Grizzlies 2–1 Bouveil Barracudas
St. Jakob Crusaders 4–0 Little Istria Tigerhawks

Game 2
Mansfield Warriors 1–0 Gold Coast Thunder (Mansfield leads series 2-0)
Jaromirgrad Huskies 1–2 Schemerdrecht Caribou (Caribou leads series 2-0)
Quebec Grizzlies 2–4 Bouveil Barracudas (Series tied 1-1)
St. Jakob Crusaders 1–1 Little Istria Tigerhawks (1–0 SO) (Crusaders lead series 2-0)

Game 3
Gold Coast Thunder 0–0 Mansfield Warriors (2–3 SO) (Mansfield WINS series with a 3-0 sweep)
Schemerdrecht Caribou 1–2 Jaromirgrad Huskies (Caribou lead series 2-1)
Bouveil Barracudas 0–1 Quebec Grizzlies (Grizzlies lead series 2-1)
Little Istria Tigerhawks 2–1 St. Jakob Crusaders (Crusaders lead series 2-1)

Game 4
Schemerdrecht Caribou 2–1 Jaromirgrad Huskies (Caribou WIN series 3-1)
Bouveil Barracudas 0–1 Quebec Grizzlies (Grizzlies WIN series 3-1)
Little Istria Tigerhawks 0–0 St. Jakob Crusaders (2–0 SO) (Series tied 2-2)

Game 5
St. Jakob Crusaders 4–2 Little Istria Tigerhawks (Crusaders WIN series 3-2)

Four excellent first round playoff series! How did the best of 5s treat us?

First, we'll start with the first series- the far and away #1 seed, the Mansfield Warriors, taking on the Gold Coast Thunder, from Northwest Kalactin, in round 1. Many have said that they'd like to pick an upset here- there's nothing that's more hockey than an 8 seed making some sort of crazy, insane playoff run, am I right? But Mansfield, although not playing meaningful hockey for about 3 weeks, showed that they were not just a regular season tiger- their 116 points make them a deserved favorite to win the title. In fact, their vaunted defense was the star of the series- the Thunder did not score once across the three games. That's insane, even for playoff hockey. A massive blowout in game 1, yes, but games 2 and 3 were close- and still, no cigar. Off to the Semis!

Next, we'll take a look at what many expected to be probably the best series going into these playoffs- Huskies v. Caribou. Very evenly matched, both with passionate fanbases. But it would be the Schemerdrecht Caribou who simply ended this series before it ever really got going. They say that a playoff series doesnt' really start until somebody wins on the road- and the Caribou did that not once, but twice, to start the series. Back to back wins in Savojarna really took the wind out of the sails of the Huskies, and while they avoided getting swept, the Caribou ended things in game 4 in Ko-oren, with winger Haruna Barubiya scoring the game winner with just 37 seconds left.

Then, we had Quebec against the playoff debutants- the Bouveil Barracudas. It's hard to get good in this league from the get-go, but here are the Barracudas from Chromatika- exciting, exhilirating, and talented. After losing a tight game 1, they wanted to steal one away in game 2, and they did just that- a tight, 4-2 win in Quebec City to really get one of the league's oldest teams shaking in their boots. But the Grizzlies were calm. "We know we split at home- but we've been here before." Said their head coach. "We aren't scared, we aren't worried- we're the better team, and we're about to prove it." Prove it they did, as they went to Bouveil, and earned a pair of 1-0 road wins to reach the semifinals on their own.

Lastly, St. Jakob faced off against Little Istria, from Qasden. The Teuslander squad got ahead of things early- a massive 4-0 win in game 1, followed by a shootout win in game 2, really put them in the driver's seat, being up 2-0 in a best of 5. But the Tigersharks had a never say die attitude. A 2-1 home win in game 3 staved off the sweep, and then a shootout win in game 4 really made it look like they were about to come back. Unfortunately, they could not. St. Jakob found their sea legs back at home, and won a winner-take-all game 5, by a score of 4-2, to reach the semifinals of this great competition.

With Mansfield and Quebec winning their playoff series, that means that both the Schemerdrecht Caribou and the St. Jakob Crusaders punched their tickets into the upcoming edition of the Hockey Champions League.

GBHL Semifinal Round Playoff Matchups

Second Round Playoff Series are Best of 7

#1 Mansfield Warriors v. #5 Schemerdrecht Cariobou
#2 Quebec Grizzlies v. #3 St. Jakob Crusaders

GBHL Semifinal Round Playoff Scores
(Semifinal series are done in a 2-3-2 format in order to help limit travel costs)

Game 1
Mansfield Warriors 3–1 Schemerdrecht Caribou
Quebec Grizzlies 1–4 St. Jakob Crusaders

Game 2
Mansfield Warriors 5–1 Schemerdrecht Caribou (Mansfield lead series 2-0)
Quebec Grizzlies 1–0 St. Jakob Crusaders (Series tied 1-1)

Game 3
Schemerdrecht Caribou 3–5 Mansfield Warriors (Mansfield leads series 3-0)
St. Jakob Crusaders 2–4 Quebec Grizzlies (Quebec leads series 2-1)

Game 4
Schemerdrecht Caribou 1–0 Mansfield Warriors (Mansfield leads series 3-1)
St. Jakob Crusaders 0–2 Quebec Grizzlies (Quebec leads series 3-1)

Game 5
Schemerdrecht Caribou 0–1 Mansfield Warriors (Mansfield WINS series 4-1)
St. Jakob Crusaders 0–3 Quebec Grizzlies (Quebec WINS series 4-1)

Sometimes, you have wild entertainmment. And sometimes, you have displays of dominance. And this year, that's what the GBHL's conference champions have shown in the semifinal round- dominance.

First, we'll start with our #1 seed, Mansfield. Plenty of rest- the only team to start off the playoffs with a first round sweep. And they wanted to do something similar in round 2. The Warriors got off to a strong start, with a tight, 3-1 win over the Caribou to start the series. The scoreline was helped a little bit by an extremely late empty net goal. But they've repeatedly shown an ability to win these close games all year- why would they stop now? But they can also win in style. Three first period goals in Game 2(two of them on the power play!) led them to a domineering, blowout 5-1 win over the Caribou, to quickly take a commanding 2-0 series lead. But of course, they held serve at home- the next 3 were in Ko-oren. What were they to do?

THey would go back to Ko-oren in game 3. A team known for its dominance on the defensive end, they showed that they have an ability to win in a multitude of ways- surviving a shootout with more firepower than their opponents. "That's not how we like to play the game." Said their head coach. "But we can beat anybody this league throws at us." That 5-3 road win put them up 3-0, and that was functionally the series. The Caribou got a 1-0 win in Game 4 to avoid getting swept(and end Mansfie'ds playoff winning streak at 6), but Mansfield punched their ticket to the GBHL Championship Series in Ko-reon, with a 1-0 win in game 5 to put them within spitting distance of the title.

Now, we'll go to the other semifinal. We've talked many times about how the Crusaders are unlucky- always the bridesmaid, never the bride. And so when they walked out of Quebec City in Game 1 with a 4-1 victory, it was stunning. The Crusaders, getting a road win? Could they pull off the upset and get back to the GBHL Championship Series? Was a GBHL championship in their sights? And when Quebec could only win 1-0 in game 2, St. Jakob was ready for an electric atmosphere back home in Teusland. And they got it- a record crowd, with many saying 'this is why we play in Siovanija & Teusland'. But just like the first round, when Quebec lost a home game, they were not fazed.

They're the defending champs, baby! And while Mansfield might be 7-1 in these playoffs, their only loss being an opponent avoiding a sweep in game 4, the Grizzlies showed, in St. Jakob, why they're the defending champs. Not one, not 2, but a trio of consecutive road wins to completely shut down the fans in st. Jakob, and put themselves in position to go back to back. Back to the Championship Series!

Grizzlies v. Warriors. One is one of the most dominant teams we've ever seen in this league- the other trying to start a dynasty, going back to back. Will it be Mansfield, or Quebec, that lifts the trophy?

GBHL Championship Series Matchup
Best of 7. Championship Series is done in a traditional 2-2-1-1-1 format
#1 Mansfield Warriors v. #2 Quebec Grizzlies

[Banija]

Greater Banijan Hockey League Season 9 - GBHL Championship Series

Game 1
Mansfield Warriors 3–2 Quebec Grizzlies

It's Game 1 of the GBHL Championship Series! The Mansfield Warriors taking on the Quebec Grizzlies- with all the pomp and circumstance of the occasion. The trio of national anthems(Banija, Baker Park, and Quebec), the visit of a royal (Omugaba Immaculate), etc... A spectacular scene here in small town Baker Park. And the Commonwealth was the site of a game that would send the home fans happy. It was 0-0 after the first period- but this game came alive in the middle period. Two Paul Misiani goals in period 2, then the Grizzlies scoring short-handed at the end of the period to make it 2-1.

Both teams scored in period 3- the Warriors with 13:00 left, and the Grizzlies with 4 minutes left, to give us our final score- a 3-2 win for the Warriors. 116 regular season points, now 8-1 in this postseason, and a 1-0 series lead.

Game 2
Mansfield Warriors 2–1 Quebec Grizzlies (Warriors lead series 2-0)

The Warriors, known for their defense, got into a tight contest in Mansfield. But that favors them. The more physical contests, more elite defense, the slower pace... That's how they like to play. And that's exactly what happened here. The Grizzlies took a 1-0 lead in the second period. But the Warriors came roaring back in the third. With Kusemererwa Kisanje scoring the first goal, and then Jimiyu Binjogoli, the 36 year old, scoring the winner with just 1:33 left, the Warriors took a 2-0 lead as the series switched to Quebec City. Holding serve at home, proving they are the best team in this league.

Game 3
Quebec Grizzlies 7–0 Mansfield Warriors (Mansfield leads series 2-1)

Off to Quebec City, and the Grizzlies roar their way to a stunning win over Mansfield! What's actually a record playoff victory in what is certainly a game to forget for Mansfield- the Grizzlies going off for seven goals, all in the first two periods(two in the first, five in the second) as they showed exaclty what they should not be counted out of this series. Just because they're down 2-0, doesn't mean anything to them- they lost either game 1 or two in the first two rounds of the playoffs, and look where the defending champs are standing. Chance to run it back?

Game 4
Quebec Grizzlies 0–2 Mansfield Warriors (Mansfield leads series 3-1)

This game 4- pivotal. When the home team has held serve for the first three games to start a series, game 4 always starts to feel pivotal. The Warriors simply held a short memory. "Look, game 3 was a disaster- we know that." Said their head coach. "But we're moving past it, and we're onto the next stage." This was a physical game- a ton of penalties both ways, and barely any goals. 0-0 after 2. But in the third period, the Warriors came alive. Just a minute into period 3, it would be Mulogo Mufuumuula who would score a brilliant slap shot, on a power play, to make it 1-0. And they held, in face of a relentless attack from the Grizz- with 20 year old NT defender Jokadu Kitaya scoring an empty netter with 28 seconds left, to put the Warriors one win away from the GBHL title.

Game 5
Mansfield Warriors 5–1 Quebec Grizzlies (Mansfield WINS the series 4-1, and are CHAMPIONS of the GBHL)

Sometimes, these game 5s are a celebration. Today, it was more than that- it was a coronation. "We wanted to prove that we were everything that we said we were. We showed how good we were during the regular season, and all postseason- we wanted to win it here, in Mansfield, for the fans." Said the team captain, Misiani. His two goals led to him getting the series MVP award, as the Warriors blasted away the Quebec Grizzlies, 5-1, to win this title. Delirium. The game was a dominant performance from start to finish.

Encapsulating the season, right? Dominant performance from start to finish. 20 points ahead of the next best team in the regular season. Finising an absolutely ridiculous 11-2 during the playoffs- including a picture-perfect 7-0 at home during the postseason. What a ride, what a season, what a title. Crown 'em baby!