Commish’s Corner

In case you missed it: The toilet series finale concluded in two games as Johnny’s added to AE2S’s dreadful campaign. With the final week upon us both teams will compete in a week 17 friendly.

Golf Center and Rumors both move on for a 5^th place showdown this week (consolation game).

Meanwhile, the 2 semi finals ended up being the duds of the night as neither Mattress or Broods were able to move on to the big show. That was the 8^th semifinal for the Mattress makers. The Broods on the other hand met a resilient Adams team as they punched their first ever ticket to a week 17, 7:45 contest.

 

End of the year synopsis: The end to another wild ride. The 10^th year did not disappoint. The ‘old’ guys around the league got another year older and the young guys seem to be multiplying. But that’s not a bad thing. I always stress the penalty minutes and particularly the ‘Extra curricular’ ones, and yet again this year they were down from last years record setting low number. I appreciate the bond between beer league man and beer league working man.

With that being said, thank you to all the competitors and your weekly attendance. Win or lose, I hope you enjoyed the season. I again praise the respect shown by fellow competitors and the camaraderie each team displays. Thank you to the volunteers behind the scenes and as always… thanks to Brad, Ryan, and Grant for officiating 80+ games this year and their commitment to keeping this thing afloat. Also, thank you to the backfilling refs as we survived the year with 3 ‘full time’ refs: John W., Joe B, Mike L., Jarda, Nate B. and Joe. K.

And lastly, thanks to Chris Norby and Jory Berg for debuting some regular season action via a weekly livestream. They voluntarily gave up many Wednesday night hours to join us in below average hockey, yet, entertaining to say the least. It was an instant success and greatly appreciated.  The final pick is in….

Week 17 Finale Pick

Adams vs. Red Pepper

The finale is here. The RP’s are playing in their 7^th championship while the Adams squad is playing in their 1st. Before this game, Adams had played had made it to one semifinal back in 2019. The RP’s have won 5 titles and have plenty of experience behind those titles. This is a tricky pick again this week. Despite their record, this Adams squad has been one of those teams waiting to break out and they strategically waited for the last 2 weeks to make their move. I will again refer to my week 1 synopsis when I mentioned they were the team to beat this year after seeing their initial roster submission. Then, on opening night, they scored in the first 8 seconds of the game, to further encourage how my comments made me look like a beer league genius. Adams will enter this game with a lot less of the frilly top team stuff. There are no league leaders or statistical advantages. This is where the Red Pepper team shines and they’ll need all of it here. With key players out of the lineup, G. Johnson seemingly always finds a way to not just get on the score sheet but rinse and repeat that process. The Bjorge triplets will be short one bro but the two in attendance have been lethal this season in the limited games they played. The submitted rosters for tonights game is what makes this interesting. Adams will have a full, full bench. All of them can contribute but the old timers in the league know that too many can sometimes work against you in a 51 minute contest. Meanwhile, Red Pepper will be shorthanded with a squad of 10, which means the Johnson twins and Bjorge twins will be on the ice every other shift despite fatigue possibly playing a roll. Red Pepper has been a top team for many years, ☹… only one team was able to crack that winning code of theirs this season and they’re not here to exploit it. Adams has plenty of firepower and a monster between the pipes. Stats lean to the #1 team finding their way again in this one but an upset may be brewing. Year 3 was the only other year that featured a #6 vs. #1 and the #6 Broods team prevailed. Congrats to both teams on their seasons. Good luck to both squads in this one. Year 10 chaos.

Adams 6-5

 

Week 16 Playoff Picks

In case you missed it: Consolation Bracket play continues for the 5^th coveted spot in the league between Bonzers vs Rumors and Golf Center vs. BWW

Meanwhile the Johnny’s and AE2S Toilet Bowl Extravaganza continues with the best of 3 series after Johnny’s took game 1. A 5-minute 3v3 Sudden Death to commence in the event AE2S can rally and win game 2 immediately following the conclusion.

The Forx Frozen Four picks are in…

Mattress 1928 vs. Red Pepper

The Forx Frozen Four begins here as a repeat to last year’s semifinal between these two. Nearly identical story lines as last year for each squad leading up to this spot. Red Pepper dominated last season, going undefeated and nearly repeated that feat entering this game with one loss. The Mattress 1928 folks were below or right at the .500 mark for the first half but found their legs in the back half of the season. Red Pepper leads the way in just about every statistic possible coming into this as the Mattress Men can proudly say they lead the way in older age and higher body fat percentage as they are the clear under-dawgs. The Johnson duo and the Bjorge triplets have dominated the ice making opposing teams feel as if theres 6 or 7 skaters on the ice at one time. Meanwhile, the Mattress makers have scored by committee led by a familiar faced leaderboard name in Lukkason and Rookie of the year candidate J. Fabian. Its been a love-hate affair for the Commish and the RP’s for the past 10 years, as in, loving to hate them ⁠. In the nature of this past weeks World hockey scenes, maybe theres some glimmer of hope for the factory workers, a bounce or two, perhaps a cheating scandal that we can get away with. But for now, unless the Red Pepper’s have gone religious and proudly gave up winning for Lent, the RP’s have the momentum for another date next week at 7:45pm.

Red Pepper 9-6

Adams vs. NDAD/Broods

This is a trickier pick. With the absence of Chris Adams, that makes the Adams squad the youngest team in the league at 22.93 years of age vs. the oldest squad in the Broods at an immortal age of 35.9. I’ll retort back to my first blog bite of the season when I mentioned Adams as the team to beat this season. Despite their up and downyness and illegal roster scandal this year, they’ve steadily played some competitive games. Broods on the other side limped into this week’s game. A resilient Rumors team threw everything at the best defensive team in the league to force a late 3^rd period comeback and force an OT/shootout situation. An incredible effort by both squads in the end. The (For)X factors in this contest are elephants in the room, D. Wurden had a career year and dominated the score sheets this season with his creative setups and finish capabilities. Meanwhile, the return of B. Costello, who is literally the size of an elephant on the ice has made an immediate impact the last few weeks. Adams is fast, muscly armed, has tight skin in important areas still, and have the army assembled to make their first appearance to the championship next week. Broods on the other hand have been here many times before, don’t panic, and have the prowess to slow things down and maintain control. The elders have the edge statistically and this contest has the makings for the potential game of the year.

Broods 4-3

 

Week 15 Playoff Picks

BWW vs. Red Pepper

The BWW’s battled and left everything on the ice last week. The BWW’s heroes came to life and pushed them into play-in winning glory only to continue their path to this……. a game against Red Pepper…… RP took a dominant 2^nd half of last weeks game to secure the regular season championship. The hockey Gods are likely not ready to bail BWW out on this one so we will keep it short and sweet. If BWW pulls off the upset then I will apologetically make up for it next week. For now. RP moves to the semi’s.

RP 10-3

Rumors vs. Broods

Rumors dummied the Engineers last week and put them out of their ‘longest season ever’ misery as AE2S was the first to go to the Toilet Bowl. Rumors scored early and often as the AE2S core was absent on the ice. This Rumors squad had a challenging year in general but they are never out of any contest. The core group in Knudson, Aikens and Breslin find their way on the score sheet each week, while Eddy likes to go toe to toe with the oppositions best. Eddy will likely need to be on the ice for all 51 minutes as Broods continues to be a league powerhouse. Despite a lopsided loss last week, Broods have scored by committee primarily led by Icky Beard and their team defense was stingy yet again this season. With a full bench +1 last week, many might argue that was too many for the frosty white jerseys and look to take their playoff bound roster back to another 7:45 game in early March. First things first.

Broods 7-4

Adams vs. Bonzers

Lots of fun stuff happening here. The two youngest teams in the league with an average age of 23.7 years old. While the rest of the league wears adult diapers under their breezers these fellas were sporting baby diapers when some of us played our first beer league contest. Under-dawg teams that have burst back on to the scene in the last couple years. I’m a personal fan of both squads to see the mix of former RR and Central gear between the two squads which goes to show the bonds that were made back when they were in their PeeWee B days. Both teams are loaded with talent and speed. Special attention set on Bonzers as this marks their first, true playoff game after competing in 9 prior play-in games to no avail. Unfortunately, they have an uphill climb as a couple of their top players are forced to abide by collegiate guidelines vs. adult recreational ones as Skarperud, Peyerl and Kortan will be spectators. Knowing the heart and fan base that follows, the Bonzerites may see a tilted ice surface with that elusive first playoff win on hold. That’s why they play the game.

Adams 7-4

Mattress 1928 vs. Golf Center

The Mattress men have played through plenty of adversity this season as the bodies got another year older and fatter. After battling through the sniffles last week, the Commish is again listed as questionable after a horrific groin injury took place reffing a youth game over the weekend..viewer discretion advised (seen here). After an outpouring of support from no one, my GoFundMe spiked to $6.00 as of late Tuesday from a bank account linked to my kids’ college fund after the assumption I’ll need offseason reconstructive crotch surgery. Enough about that. The GC’s have been snipers in the weeds this season. Not creating a lot of noise and winning games. They have played the top teams respectively, despite losing efforts, they kept the RP’s in check with a 2 goal differential and the Broods to a 1 goal affair. The last outing between these two squads was a 5-4 GC win. There are plenty of big names on either side. Lukkason completed another 30+ point season while the Fabian twins made an instant impact on the team. Meanwhile, R. Johnson again led his squad in points and Breidenbach put together his best Forx Hockey season with 18 points. This will be the closest of the 4 playoff games. Coinflip.

GC 6-5

 

Week 14 Picks

Mattress 1928 vs. Adams

With week 14 upon us, it now means the final stretch is here. 4 glorious weeks of muscly armed men, grinding out shift after shift, over exerting themselves, and sweating from places they didn’t know sweat glands existed all for likely…. little to no glory… but those are minor details. The 5 and 6 seed here are looking to finalize their next week’s position with the ability to jump as high as 4^th in the standings if either team wins. Adams took the first round and looked like a well-oiled machine after taking the RP’s to a one goal affair. Meanwhile, the Mattress folks were going the other direction and nearly gave the AE2S engineers their first win. Other than some slight, jostling around in the standings, this should just grease the gears going into next week.

Adams 6-5

Red Pepper vs. Broods

With their 3^rd installment on the year, these two squads who are unfamiliar with each other saved the final regular season game to crown a champion. Beyond some bragging rights and a picture that will go on to our website for the 11 current subscribers to cherish, this should be an entertaining affair as always. Broods will be looking to heal a few bodies and both teams are taking a slight breath as the weeks leading up to this have been daunting based on their 2^nd half strength of schedule. RP’s are the current favorite with Broods thinking about weeks 15-17.

RP 6-5

AE2S vs. Rumors

Play-in Game #1. I mentioned last week and I’ll do so again. The leagues parity this year was deeper than we’ve seen compared to a few years past. This Rumors team is one of the stronger ‘play-in’ squads to have been a #7 and have plenty of veterans to make a run. AE2S has been saving their best for last? We are all familiar with where they were this season as the bold, numerical zero in their win column was visible all season. With that said, they’ve been stringing games together and taking their last 3 opponents to shootouts with typically less than a full squad.  Thompson and Wowrick have been the offensive leaders for the Engi-nerds but will have their hands full trying to contain the Rumors offensive leaders in Bekkedahl and Eddy. I’m a fan of rooting for the under-dawgs but I think AE2S looks ahead to next years 1^st pick in the upcoming Forx Draft as they have their eyes on D. James to continue the steady trend of former UND players entering the league. Unless Wuitschick can pull off some more sorcery between the pipes, the 2S’s will be the first to next weeks toilet bowl party.

Rumors 6-2

Bonzers vs. Golf Center

The only two teams that theoretically can’t move are these squads. Bonzers is a lock at #3 and Golf Center can only drop to #5 and would stay in the same position. Short and sweet here. Both teams have been hot and fairly consistent and are here to check a couple boxes and prep for next week. The elephant in the room, fun fact here is, this will be the first year Bonzers is not competing in a play-in game.

Bonzers 6-5

Johnny’s vs. BWW

As encouraged by a member of the Johnny’s team, the Forx Hockey Board of Directors gathered this week in an impromptu emergency meeting, brainstorming ideas to keep folks engaged in the league, seen here.  Forx fans can rejoice in knowing that the next decade is set to introduce locker room Magicians for pre- and postgame entertainment and 4 Twister mats have been purchased and will be placed in the space behind each bench for between shifts excitement. As we return to the real world, both teams despite being among the bottom half of the standings for the better part of the season have shown glimmers of hope with their recruits on the season. Lamoine and Arel have helped Reed-O up front while Andrade has been a workhorse each shift. BWW’s trio of Jammer V, Henke, and Corbett have helped revitalize the rapidly aging BWW squad. Getting that trio in the black sweaters has been unfortunately hard to come by. These two are full of seasoned veterans and have plenty of ‘play-in’ game experience. Both split the season series. Johnny’s 2^nd half has been hit and miss with some lopsided victories in there. BWW might have the depth if the roster arrives. Coinflip affair.

BWW 7-6

 

Week 13 Picks

Adams vs. Red Pepper

The beer league Gods were on site last week as they handed Red Pepper their first regular season loss in almost exactly 2 years dating back to January 31 of 2024. Coincidently, the loss was around the same time a viral Instagram post (seen here) by one of their sponsors displayed the current league standings showing their undefeated status. This potentially sets up an entertaining contest next week between the leagues two top teams to decipher the regular season championship. Adams piggybacked off some beer league luck of their own, capitalizing off a late penalty in the final minute of play to tie and eventually win the shootout against Golf Center. Red P won the previous matchup 10-5. Likely more of the same as RP resets to begin a new winning streak.

RP 9-5

Bonzers vs. Johnny’s

After completing a 44th lap around the sun this past weekend, I needed a 3^rd eye exam to make sure the 3 Johnny’s players that made the Bros of the Week were accurate. Sure enough, Forx Hockey’s high tech and incredibly accurate data system computed correctly. Johnny’s will look to continue that momentum as they prepare for next week’s play-in playoff game. It’s worth noting that Wuitschick was likely blindfolded last week after giving up double-digits against the #9 seed. Bonzers look to lock in their #3 seed with a win here. Skarp, Kortan and Gardner have been buzzing, and Skarp’s ‘Michigan’ goal last night was a delight to witness. Johnny’s, Reed-O, Andrade, and Lamoine can counter. Goaltenders will be busy.

Bonzers 6-5

Broods vs. Golf Center

The Broods, with another short bench, capitalized off team defense and fed off D. Wurden’s incredible season as he logged 4 more points which solidified his best season as a Forx athlete. Wurden’s 31 points has been a blessing to help fill a void after the loss of J. Lammy who scored early and often with 40+ points the last couple years. These two teams played a tight 4-3 affair less than a month ago with again Wurden coming through with a 3^rd period game winner. Broods are set to finish in the top 2 to finish the regular season whereas the GC’s can finish as high as 3^rd or as low as 6^th. Stingy game 2.0.

Broods 5-4

Mattress Factory vs. AE2S

The aforementioned viral Instagram picture made its 2^nd negative encounter when the AE2S executive team caught wind of their current 0-9-2 record on the season. The Engi-nerds are in dismay as they will likely need to return not only their team jerseys but their team issued TI-84 calculators upon the final game of the season. Another tough blow. The MF’ers locked into the final, top-6 spot last week if my math (calculator-less) worked correctly. MF won the first time around but are expecting a little more of a push this time around as the artists formerly known as AE2S are ramping up before their Play-in game.

M-1928 7-4

Rumors vs. Buffalo Wild Wings

Again, feeding off my sources. I believe the final four play-in teams are set. Rumors is a lock at #7 and BWW can only flip-flop the #8 or #9. If so, this will be the first time the Rumors club has competed in a play-in game and this Rumors team will arguably the most talented team to do so. 4 of their games were decided through a shootout which that one goal not scored or allowed in those games for obvious reasons left valuable points out there. This scenario also displays the league parity throughout. The end of the regular season ends here for these two squads.

Rumors 7-4

 

Week 12 Picks

Bonzers vs. Rumors

Bonzers has risen to the top of the standings and been able to maintain a solid position in the 3-spot. Although coming close, they were unable to find the answers against the two teams ahead of them. The only other team that has given the Schooner men a run for their frosty beer mug money is the Rumors squad that took them to a shootout the first time around. The last meeting by no surprise saw the star forwards come to life as C. Skarp and Eddy match each other’s success on either end of the ice.  More of the same here. Both teams are playing well and Rumors position in the standings is deceiving as they have been in 4 shootouts in a 11 games. Bonzers with another shootout win??

Bonzers 6-5 S/O

AE2S vs. Johnny’s

1. Solc again making league news as he currently leads the league in penalty minutes thus far in the season. After a text interview, Solc was ‘excited’ to lead the league in something and was thankful that the AE2S penalty kill is last so his time in the box is traditionally no more than 10 seconds. Johnny’s will start this contest down a man after this season’s first tickle-fight took place last week to end the game. The leagues cellar dwellers look to build some momentum after Johnny’s got a head start on that plan after Reed-O’s monster 6-goal night. AE2S followed up their plan as mentioned last week by taking each game to a shoot-out to grow their points one at a time. Forx Analytics have them projected to finish with 4 points based on that algorithm. Reed-O stays hot assuming he has a supporting cast.

Johnny’s 6-4

BWW vs. Matt 1928

Media team game of the week as chosen by the associated beer league press. In an attempt to cover all the teams at least once during the regular season, BWW will get their 1^st shot at watching how fat and slow we are on camera. GLP-1 patches will be handed out prior to the game to help these teams lose 15 pounds before the playoffs. These teams battled to a 12 to 7… goalie-less???... affair the 3^rd week of the season that saw fellow competitor Lehmbecker and Jennewein compile 4 points each. Both teams feeding off top players as Jammer V was an animal in last weeks 3^rd period and on the other side M. Lukkason is on pace for 30+ points which he’s done 3 times before. Semmens was caught on the wrong side of a 3^rd game, 9:00p.m. contest the last time around. Expecting a tight one.

Matt Fac 7-5

Golf Center vs. Adams

The 4 and 5 seed face off with Golf Center taking round 1 back on the 1^st week of December. What sticks out here are how evenly matched these two currently are with only 3 points separating the two. Their goal differentials show how close their games have been thus far as well the GC’s are a plus-6 and Adams a minus-1. Adams has won games by committee as no player has reached the double digit mark, meanwhile the GC’s have 4 players in double digits leading the way with R. Johnson and his 19 points. Johnson has hit the 20+ point tally the last 7 years and appears he will do so again. Another fast, defensive matchup here. GC’s take the season sweep.

GC’S 5-4

Broods vs. Red Pep

A scheduling glitch as the RP’s are playing back-to-back 9p.m. graveyard games…or was it?? After my recent weekly banter, my apology letter was likely tossed into the Icon parking lot dumpster. The 79^th meeting for these two teams with the possibility of two more if the beer league Gods script it as such. With that, the two top teams and labeled that right fully so as both squads have dominated to this point. Many of the leagues leaders fill out these rosters from goaltending to league and rookie scoring. Broods D. Wurden is on pace for a career year and will likely reach the 30-point mark for the first time. Meanwhile G. Johnson continues to put up silly numbers and lead the league in just about every scoring category known to beer league man. As much as the league would like to see a little bit of a shake up, the RP’s haven’t shown that weakness dating back to last season.

RP 7-5

 

Week 11 Picks

Mattress 1928 vs. Golf Center

The mattress makers were able to settle things down and hang on after a wild opening 9 minutes against Johnny’s where the media team was able to broadcast 6 goals on 8 shots between the two teams. The GC’s, despite a loss, didn’t disappoint against the Pepper as for a 2^nd time were able to keep things close for much of the game. After declining to ref the game, Golf Center had to call in backup goalie, Wuitschick, to tend the game and was later carried off the ice by the GC’s after his glorious fill in role. Wuitschick will be one to watch as we enter the latter of the season and depending on what level his ‘Give a sh!t’ meter is, he could steal a game from someone. Golf Center continues to be a sneaky team and is getting goals from all over their lineup. Mattress has been able to do the same but the absences on the blue line have forced goal scorers to cover defensively. GC’s get the season sweep here.

GC 6-4

NDAD vs. Adams

The Broods have been on cruise control since Thanksgiving. Their mantra has been to deceptively allow their opponents score the first goal or two and then blister all hopes by wearing you out mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Quad attack. Adams on the other hand continues a bit of a roller coaster last few weeks as their wits will again be tested with a tough 2^nd half strength of schedule. The legs ran out of juice in last weeks 3^rd period against Bonzers. They’ll need more than juicy legs here as the Broods look for a season sweep. Players to watch here are Broods Z. Miller who has made an instant impact since acquired, and Adams gladly welcomes Costello back to the offensive side of the rink. Broods controls play.

NDAD 8-4

AE2S vs. Rumors

Long last, AE2S is on the board. Feeding off a late, repeat offender penalty, they were able to drag things out to a tie in their contest against BWW. Team captain J. Solc, commented after the game that he was excited to get the standings point, but most importantly not have to pay Wuitschick on the night after an agreement was made preseason that Wuitschick would be paid $10 per win. This is the first of its kind as an NIL attempt in the Forx Hockey League. In a team cost savings decision, even if ahead in a game, AE2S plans to tie the rest of their regular season games and climb the standings one point at a time.

Rumors 6-3

BWW vs. Johnny’s

As previously mentioned, BWW squandered 2 points in the standings after allowing a late PP goal. Meanwhile, Johnny’s had what looked like 67 players on their bench last week against M1928 after everyone had successfully recovered from this seasons P-flu. As some can attest, big benches make for great locker room and post-game sponsorship comradery, but can negatively impact line chart ‘bro-flow’ in the game. With that, Johnny’s Sauve will be busy again in net as BWW’s Henke is an animal up front. Add in a Jammer V to quarterback the play and this put pressure again on Johnny’s veteran Reed-O and newbies Lamoine and Arel to answer back. Semmens has been solid yet again this season and a goalie dual is set to commence.

BWW 4-3

Red Pepper vs. Bonzers

After 9 countless years of aggressive attempts to eliminate the Red Pepper team from competition, the league is now working closely with the Rumors team this week in expanding the effort. With deportations being a hot topic, mandatory background checks will be completed after warmups. Side note, If any of the other 9 teams fail, they’ll be able to submit a one-time verbal, “sorry about that”, and be exempt from any further investigation. Assuming that wont work, the Bonzers team will strap in for a 2^nd attempt at a top-3 contest as the RP’s look for a regular season sweep. The bench atmosphere and bleacher faithfuls Bonzers provides the league each week is a win in itself. A good gauge here as to what and how things might go in a month from now. G. Johnson thrives in these matchups. Pepper in the end is too dominant.

Red Pepper 8-4

 

Week 10 Picks

BWW vs. AE2S

The 2^nd half of the season is upon us. Although there are 4ish regular season games remaining, the playoff vibe will begin to flow through the veins. There is quite the spread this year to this point as you have one team with a 9-0 record… and then you have AE2S…0-9. Many, including the AE2S players, will be shocked to hear this but they are playing better as of recently and are poised to spoil someone’s playoff hopes. Before that happens, AE2S will take another shot at the BWW’s and need to find an answer for Henke, Lehmbecker and Corbett, who led the way the last time around. AE2S will not go 0-13, but this is not the week they get the elusive first win.

BWW 7-5

Golf Center vs. Red Pepper

I haven’t seen the RP’s play in weeks, but after analyzing in-depth and complex statistical Forx Hockey next-gen algorithmic data, it’s been determined I will continue to make no effort to attend their potentially historic run. Their dominance will continue here against a strong GC team that gave them a good back and forth run just before the holiday break. The GC’s finished the first half among the top 4 and are on a steady pace to finish the regular season right in the middle of the pack.

RP 8-6

Mattress 1928 vs. Johnny’s

Not the greatest first half of the season for either team in the one. Collectively 5 wins brought to the table. Johnny’s took round 1 in a shoot out back in November. Mattress lost last week against a hot Adams team and Johnny’s played Pepper and have flushed the P-flu down the Icon toilets as a full roster is expected this week. A tight one again as the goaltenders dual.

M-1928 5-4

Bonzers vs. Adams

Bonzers finished the first half with a highly respectable 7-2 record, said no one ever—as it was the first time for them since league inception. The first matchup for these squads was a battle and incredibly entertaining game that was later marred by the Adams team when they knocked on the Red Pepper locker room door for assistance. Should be a good true test for either team this time around as the leagues two youngest teams get a 2^nd round. Coinflip if the rosters are ‘correct’ on each bench.

Bonzers 6-5 S/O

Rumors vs. Broods

Rumors first half record does not accurately reflect the team on the ice. Knowing the talent in the group and the high emotions that come with that, their 2^nd half and post season will be strong. Their first round with Broods was the first game of the season and was a one goal contest going into the 3^rd but was eventually put away by the Broods and led by a dominant D. Wurden and his 6-point night. Wurden, along with 2 additional inches of beard since Oct. 29^th, should be able to sneak past Rumors here again but will be a high octane, late night affair needing all 3 periods to decide it.

Broods 6-5

 

Week 9 Picks

AE2S vs. Rumors

The final round of the 1^st half begins here with 2 teams that are grasping for answers as they collectively have 1 win on the season. To rub it in further, a year ago there were 10 wins combined entering week 9. AE2S, content with saving themselves for the playoff season, are hoping to spark their offense leading up to week 14 as they rank amongst the bottom of the league. 2S’s J. Solc utilized the holiday season by gifting each of his players brand new sticks purchased off the Temu website. The Chinese stick shafts, made out of shellfish and kitten bone fragments, are measured to be around a 5-flex and its incredibly likely none of them will make it past warmups. In unrelated news, Solc will likely be out this week due to working through all of his banking and internet passwords being leaked in a data breach. It’s the thought that counts.

Rumors 6-4

NDAD vs. Golf Center

Golf Center has sneakily put together a solid first half. Currently in the top 4, they’ve been able to put together complete games and feed off veteran players R. Johnson, Schaefer, and Breidenbach. They’ll look to keep the momentum they had before the break as they played an admirable contest against the RP’s despite a losing effort. Meanwhile, the Broods are just ahead of the GC’s and are doing so again this year with strong defense. Despite not having the large numbers of Goals For as they’ve had in the past by this point in the season, they continue to show their ‘by committee defensive dominance via their goal differential. The Broods, until proven otherwise, continue to stay among the top of the standings in a tight one.

Broods 7-6

Red Pepper vs. Johnny’s

Since the schedule was submitted in middle October, the Johnny’s faithful have had this contest circled on the calendar. This is the week where ringleader S. Mutscher will receive 11 text messages 8 minutes before game time with his ‘used to be friends’ informing him that they will be unable to make the game for various reasons, possible excuses are as follows: ‘Pepper flu’, ‘dead car battery’, ‘hair appointment’, ‘forgot we play this week’, ‘thought the season ended in December??’, and ‘at the vet, dog ate my new Temu hockey stick’. I was hoping the year 2026 would help me find something positive to say about the RP’s, the search continues.

RP 11-2

BWW vs. Bonzers

On a positive note, the Bonzer boys were the feel good story of late 2025. They’ll now need to prove they can take a solid run deep into the start of 2026. They’ve been a fun team thus far and its hard not to root a little for the underdawgs from time to time. As I get a little emotional, I remind myself that they beat my team and will tread lightly for now. BWW finds themselves in a familiar place in the standings but have some interesting tools in their toolbox that could make for a couple upsets in future weeks. If they can bring the Henke, Corbett and Jammer V combo back to life theres some opportunity there. For now, Skarperud has been a hot mess for many teams, leading to Bonzers finishing the round of 9 with a 7^th win.

Bonzers 6-4

Mattress 1928 vs. Adams

After 3 weeks of surviving off meat and cheese trays, old fashioned’s, 2000 frosted sugar cookies and zero glasses of water, the aging 1928’ers will try to rally for the 2^nd half assuming all of their Angioplasty results come back negative. They’ll prepare to chase the young fellas from the Adams team who sit one spot ahead in the middle of the standings pack. Adams strong start to the season was marred by illegal rostering and injuries the 2^nd half of the 1^st half?...if that makes sense. Likely a fun contest here as they were in years past. Coinflip

1928 6-5

 

With the first half of the season coming to a close this week, teams have settled in and the standings speak for themselves. 4 teams have jumped out and dominated the bottom of the pack. While the bottom 6 teams have provided wins for the top 4 and seemingly beating themselves up along the way to leave things wide open for the 2^nd half push to the playoffs. I thank you all for the sportsmanship shown towards your fellow opponent and cheers to all the great games I’ve seen thus far. Merry Christmas!! The holiday picks are in….

 

Week 8 Picks

BWW vs. Johnny’s

BWW with a surprising victory last week against a Rumors team that looked back into winning caliber form a week before. Both Johnny’s and BWW enter this week with 2-5 records and are nearly even statistically in the GF and GA department. Lamoine and Reed-O continue to be the spark plugs for Johnny’s while Lehmbecker and Henke follow suit for BWW. Another coinflip affair with BWW getting the nod based on last weeks momentum.

BWW 5-4

Bonzers vs. NDAD/Broods

I miss the days of trying to find positive things about the Bonzers squad and justifying how brown and yellow, plaid uniforms could coexist into this league, but after they beat us last week, those days are in the past. A new chapter is under way as the leagues youngest team takes on the wily veterans in the oldest team in the league. Average age Bonzers=23.68 Broods=35.92. It seems like just yesterday (10 years ago) that Broods were showing up to play a beer league game 4 years into their careers, while the Bonzers guys were getting dropped off at the front door for PeeWee B practice. Wild times. Bonzers is off to their best ever start and possibly best ever season. A true test tonight as Broods has played these games strategically. Broods keeps them honest this time around with a real chance at a deep playoff rematch.

NDAD 6-5

Adams vs. AE2S

Big news from the Adams camp and the league. With the help from Dillon Jackson and Forx Hockey, the league is excited to announce that the winner of this years championship will scrimmage the University of North Dakota’s Mens Hockey team on September 29^th, 2026, leading up to next years October Exhibition against Manitoba. This is the only relevant news after Adams has stalled out losing their last 3 and now play a completely stalled out, bottom of a flooded out underpass, AE2S team.

Adams 7-4

Golf Center vs. Red Pepper

The RP’s dominance continues as they seem to get stronger each week with contributions coming from what feels like 6 or 7 guys on the ice at one time. They’ll face off against the leagues currently next in line hottest team as the GC’s are riding a 4-game win streak. Golf Center has all the tools to compete but need the stars to align and all the bodies on the ice in uniform. Red Pepper takes an unbeaten record into the holiday with hopes Santa can deliver a Christmas Miracle on an upset.

Pepper 10-6

Mattress 1928 (Factory) vs. Rumors

I will go out on a limb here and say this is the first time these 2 squads have met this late in the season and have collectively, 3 wins. The leagues 2^nd and 3^rd oldest squads match up in a gentlemens rivalry and it’ll be a miracle in itself if we can all stay awake long enough to make the 9pm graveyard time slot. Despite the negativity and regardless of their current standings status, these teams have both played each other the last couple years for 3rd place after similar prior years starts. The end is near for many of us in this one… but not quite yet…

Rumors 6-5

 

Week 7 Picks

Red Pepper vs. Adams

Adams imported half of the bad gu…Red Pepper team a couple weeks back, and now will witness the other side of the blunt force that’s about to take place. RP is on cruise control after another lop-sided scorefest took place last week. Adams roster black eyes continue with Costello on IR and Severson a partial healthy scratch last week. Unfortunately, its likely another, a lot to a little, contest.

Pepper 11-4

Johnny’s vs. Golf Center

This week’s Game of the Week by the media team will feature their 3^rd installment of the FHL YouTube series. A game that will feature Johnny’s 2^nd leading point scorer L. Lamoine in his first game against his former team. Lamoine, who doesn’t like Golf, was removed from the team after buying his most recent set of irons from Play It Again Sports. If he decides to show up this season, the referees will be eyeballing E. Leach for the GC’s to monitor his behavior towards L.L. Last week, Johnny’s was able to scrape together a win but need to find more answers to their offensive game. Meanwhile, the GC’s are buzzing with a 3-game win streak and are looking to extend that before they lose to RP next week. GC’s have the current momentum.

GC 8-4

Bonzers vs. Matt 1928

Speaking of momentum, Bonzers is going to finish the first chunk of the season with a winning record no matter how the next 3 weeks unfold which has never happened. Kudos to them after winning 4 games total the past 6 years. Skarp is dominating offensively with plenty of support to follow. As for this week, I hope they play like the previous 6 years.

1928 6-5

BWW vs. Rumors

Its been weeks since I’ve last seen the BWW’s take the ice but seems I haven’t missed much losing 4 in a row . BWW is another team needing an immediate injection in offense other than Lehmbecker up front. Jammer V, N. Corbett and Henke are the potential answers but have stalled out as of late. Rumors played an incredibly fast contest last week, losing in a shootout to Bonzers. When one opponent tries to steal the show, Rumors Eddie answers right back. Edevold went toe pick to toe pick last week against Skarperud and it was breathtaking to say the least. Rumors has the advantage this week.

Rumors 6-4

Broods vs. AE2S

Broods continue to silently remain among the leagues best. Currently they have the 5^th best goals-for average but again lead the league defensively with the least amount of goals-against. Sumner in net has dominated in the crease with a .963 save percentage in a completely made up statistic to provide some rare love to the goalies.  AE2S leads the aforementioned categories in the polar opposite directions as they continue to bleed out on their current path to this years toilet bowl. The Nerds have been known to play the top of the league teams tough in the past but this week will be a mountain not worth the climb.

Broods 9-2

 

Week 6 Picks

Bonzers vs. Rumors

As if it wasn’t hard enough losing to Pepper in Week 4, the Bonzers team was unfortunately, blessed with another attempt at the RP’s after as many as 6 of them were seen wearing different costumes in the nightcap contest. Some controversy leading into Turkey Day but made for an instant classic game for Bonzers and Adams. As correctly predicted last week, the Rumors team snuck out their first win of the season and put together a full 51 minutes led by ‘Eddie’ on the scoresheet. The media team broadcasted last weeks Broods v M1928 game and have this B vs R game slated as their 2^nd ‘televised’ game of the year. Tell a family member. Skarperud was on full display a week ago and playing his best hockey since his Squirt days. Bonzers keeps this dream season rolling assuming hes in the lineup.

Bonzers 7-6

Matt 1928 vs. Red Pepper

The M1928’s played a masterful, full 51 minutes in their 10^th Thanksgiving game matchup against the Broods. The 1928’s haven’t beaten the Broods since early in 2019, and despite ending in a tie, at least one of the two locker rooms let their emotions take it to a win mentality. Another instant classic. RP on the other hand pulled away early and won after scoring two touchdowns in the game. They continue to be a freight train and it’s unlikely that the 1928’s will be able to derail what’s coming this week.

RP 9-4

Broods vs. BWW

BWW may rinse and repeat here as they face off again this week against one of the leagues top squads. Semmens may see a little less head high rubber this week, but the BWW offense will be tested as the Broods are one of the known top defensive skilled teams. PPL made his season debut and was a ‘pleasant’ opponent to play against said none of the 1928’s. As mentioned earlier, while one of the Lammy’s was back in the lineup, brother Jacques, deployed…defending our country had to be educated via group text that his squad back on the home land was settling in with a tie for the Turkey Day Extravaganza Game. Broods likely to move on here but score will be closer than previous contests.

Broods 7-4

AE2S vs. Johnny’s

These two squads currently round out the bottom of the standings. Johnny’s is clinging to life with Reed-O and Lamoine up front on the score sheet but are needing more depth to start contributing. AE2S rebuilding year continues as a couple extra Solc’s in the lineup last week couldn’t tilt the ice enough. Goal tender duel here. AE2S’s needs the W to stay afloat.

AE2S 4-3

Adams vs. Golf Center

The Adams family who comprises of the largest roster amongst all the fellow squads ran into an illegal predicament when they transferred in some foreigners into their lineup. Nearing league banishment for the players that were chosen, were awarded another chance to compete. Meanwhile, the GC’s have no idea what the hell we are talking about and went into the holiday break savoring the flavor of a win against a stingy AE2S team that wouldn’t go away. With Adams, ‘back to normal’, this week, they should be able to pick up where they left off utilizing their speed up front. Adams enters the week with their 2^nd graveyard time slot in as many weeks but with none of them showing up last week they shouldn’t notice. With that, this should be a fun one to end the night on

Adams 6-5

 

Week 5 Picks

AE2S vs. Golf Center

The glorious Thanksgiving week returns when hybrid rosters appear in full effect; where teams see half their roster disappear for family travel and then replenish with friends and family returning for the weekend. With the great American holiday set to commence, the AE2S roster will foil that celebration as the leagues most international made-up squad will take the ice. Not the first time they’ve been this diverse but they will be composed of 3 Czech’s (Solc Posse), a couple Norwegian’s (Kjenstads), a Canadian (L. Thompson), Italian Mafia (Caroselli) and a German goaltender in Wuitschick. The only member left to celebrate the time-honored holiday is the most basic, common American name on the team, Brian Nelson.  Golf Center is expected to have a translator on the ice at all times for this one. This will likely be a tight contest. Coinflip.

GC 6-5

Mattress 1928 vs. NDAD

For the 10^th consecutive and purely coincidental time, the Mattress Makers will play a Turkey Leg Game of the Week against long time, fellow-tenured Broods. Both teams comprised with old fogies as the leagues two oldest squads prepare for another yearly matchup averaging 35.21 and 35.07 age. Each locker room will see their fair share of pill popping ibuprofen and body supplements with the sweet aroma of baby powder and Bengay circulating its way throughout the ductwork of the Icon. More of the same with roster additions and subtractions. The 1928 living off the ‘Why have only one Haley when you can have 3 Haley's’ mentality to help fill out the lineup card. Meanwhile the Broods likely to return PPL to their starting lineup assuming he can borrow PPL senior’s packed away, retired gear. Forx Fans will for sure be frightened to see a large defenseman wearing a Freddy mask on the ice.  These are the days that many of us will miss.

Broods 8-3

BWW vs. Red Pepper

The BWW’s suffered a one goal deciding loss last week in an instant classic matchup against the GC’s. With little to look forward to tonight, they can at least take note in the fact they will be done early enough tonight to celebrate the holiday accordingly after their expected dilapidated loss to the RP’s. This contest will be the first reunion for former teammates Albrecht and Jammer V since their playing days and the Zamboni staff will delay their ice resurfacing after the game to give each player time for a formal, post-game jersey swap.

Pepper 10-2

Bonzers vs. Adams

Apollo 13 Odyssey to Houston Ground Control. Initiate speedy, muscly arms sequence. The other side of the age coin faces off this week with the leagues two youngest teams set to battle. Bonzers sneaking out the tight race with an average of 23.68 vs. 23.78. Adams likely to remove Chris Adams, team name representative and significant sponsor benefactor, from the team to drop their average age and win that unnecessary race. Strategically making this move after the holiday to not embarrass him in front of his family during the break. An interesting matchup as both squads are littered with red and maroon helmets; will be a mess for the referees to decipher what is playful riff raff vs. former rival riff raff. Tough one here has both teams are rising stocks. After witnessing Bonzers game play against the RP’s last week, it’s tough not to lean that direction. Both enter the week at 3-1 and have similar stat lines.

Bonzers 7-6

Rumors vs. Johnny’s

Rumors is 0-3-1 to start their 2025 campaign with no reason to hit the panic button quite yet as their strength of schedule the first four weeks was arguably the toughest. Johnny’s on the other hand is coming off a lopsided loss to the Broods who led play from the opening draw, they’ll now play Rumors; where Johnny's is unfortunately 0-13 all-time in regulation games against. Rumors sends us off to our first holiday of the season with their first win.  Happy Thanksgiving!

Rumors 8-3

 

Week 4 Picks

Johnny’s vs. Broods

Johnny’s lost a tight battle last week but are pleasantly seeing contributions from Reed-O on the offensive side of things. Newcomer L. Lamoine has been a spark as well joining the team after being cut by the GC’s after a 5-year run, citing irreconcilable differences. Broods played a brilliant game but were edged by long time foe RP last week. Missing a couple key pieces on offense certainly didn’t help. Positively, D. Simpson on the blue line was an instant plus factor and looked comfortable in his new surroundings after not skating competitively for a handful or so years, stating “this might be the best league I’ve ever played in”, while not surprising to hear, still made me blush. Anyways…. Broods get back on track.

Broods 9-3

AE2S vs. Matt-Fac

The 1928 got their 1^st win of the season in what looked like a low scoring football game on the scoreboard with a 12-7 final. Many may have contributed to the win but will get zero recognition after the Commish himself was glistening on the ice displaying a full act of heroism, quarterbacking the squad with 2 goals. In a bid to score his first ever hat trick entering the 3^rd, ended poorly after having to leave the game with a non-contact lower back injury which is like the most depressing, old guy thing to have happen. Having to watch a full period on the bench because you forgot to take your 15 prescription supplements is a tough, tough deal. One thing that won’t be forgotten this week is the coinflip needed to determine which locker room neighbor (Biermaier/M. Lukkason) will apply tonights IcyHot to my lower back. In other news, AE2S is set to make their season debut after not showing up the first 3 weeks.

Matt 1928 7-2

Rumors vs. Adams

A legendary rivalry that dates way back to the days when my back to didn’t let itself go bending over to tie my sneakers or blow my nose in my handkerchief. Now, all of that has been tarnished by Adams after their youthful rebuild. Rumors are still maintaining the elderly look with 49 years young, Neubert, leading the way. Adams based on the analytics should have the advantage but similar to the last few years for Rumors as they are playing much better than their record shows. The first of many references to the Tortoise and the Hare storyline comparison. Going full Tortoise mode.

Rumors 6-5

Bonzers vs. Pepper

Shockingly??...  Bonzers is 3-0. With a chance to reach 4 wins this week, its time to  Initiate statistical dump sequence. The last time Bonzers (iSight) had 4 wins was back in the 2018-19 season and based on the numbers, many of the current players were just getting their drivers license and preparing for sophomore career day at school. Additionally, after the 4 win season, the Bonzers would play 6 full seasons with only 4 wins during that span. Unfortunately, the 4^th win of the season will be on stand by as the face off against the blue and white, Red Pepper team who is also 3-0 to start the season which is not shocking like the previous information. Bonzers will get there, not this week.

RP 8-3

BWW vs. Golf Center

BWW was on the wrong end of a lopsided contest will try their luck with another round of late games this week. Questions being asked coming into the week: Will Semmens play 3 in a row again? Will the Jammer-V, Lehmbecker, Henke line stay together? Did one of these BWW’s secretly injure my back? With that, the GC’s are off to a comfortable pace with R. Johnson again leading the way with a more balanced attack this year with contributions from the veterans in Breidenbach and Aamott. Tight one that could go either way that has generally gone the GC’s way.

GC 6-4

 

Week 3 Picks

Broods vs. Pepper???

The Earlybird contest kicks off with last year’s championship game contenders in what will likely be their first of seven more meetings this season after they accidentally get scheduled to play each other every week in the 2^nd half. Broods have quietly begun their season campaign with 2 wins after a goalie-less start to the season and shutting down an offensively potent week 2 opponent in Adams. Meanwhile, Pepper is going through some sort of ‘identity crisis’ as one member stated it. I think I speak for many of us out there when I thought I would never see the day where the Red…Red Pepper jerseys were not displayed. After a 10-year steady diet of Busch lights, meat and cheese trays and more of the Busch lights, I assumed I would have tipped over before I witnessed the beer league world look uncomfortably different as they displayed their new costumes. With that, the artists formerly known as Red Pepper likely pull away late in this one with more of the same as the Bjorge Trio combined with Johnson and Johnson have created havoc in the offensive zone.

RP 7-5

Golf Center vs. Rumors

Both teams are coming off week 2 losses. Golf Center was on the wrong end of several wacky bounces off the glass and fortuitous net-mouth pucks that the Bonzers squad were able to capitalize off of. Rumors played Pepper so no need to elaborate. Both teams are aging beauties with retirement minded players on either side. This should be a classic matchup. Rumors in years past was the favorite; Deckers unknown hip dysplasia status the deciding factor here.

GC 8-5

Adams vs. Johnny’s

The Adams youth was held in check by the Broods veteran D-core last week. I wasn’t able to witness any of that contest as I was too busy turning over countless pucks to the entire Johnny’s team as they were able to pull off a shootout victory. Johnny’s adding a 2^nd story to the goalie injury issues as Sauve’s Monday night, freak accident, injury report documented needing to be Swingline stapled to be ready to go in this one.  Adams will move on here.

Adams 6-3

BWW vs. Matt 1928

BWW with a solid win feeding off the sticks of fresh faces, Henke and N. Corbett. The mattress folks were stifled again and despite a desperate attempt to win, were not able to hit the net at the right times, or at all for that matter. A large contingent of the Geriatric group on display for all Forx Fans to stick around for the late game to view as lack of speed and moderate skill will be the showcase. 1928 looking to get that elusive first win of the season. Coinflip.

MF 6-5

Bonzers vs. AE2S

As mentioned earlier, the Bonzerites utilized their opportunistic, friendly bounces to generate a healthy lead against the GC’s. It’s been 8 pleasant years since I last saw a Tellmann contribute in the league and the first time in a positive way as Bet was able to put together a 3-point night and crack the Bro of the Week list. I’ll leave it to Bet to ask papa bear about the last Tellmann moment the league remembers when his father, Jeff, launched his broken stick 8 rows deep into the bleachers en route to grab a new one. Archives show this is still listed as one of Forx Hockeys Darwin Award winners. Hoping this sets the groundwork for a good upcoming Thanksgiving dinner icebreaker. The 3^rd goalie injury story line is the absence of the engineers netminder who suffered a….Wii…. related shoulder injury. I have no words. 2008 all over again for many of us. Bonzers is making an early season bid to be my late season sleeper team.

Bonzers 6-5

 

Week 2 Picks

Bonzers vs. Golf Center

Bonzers was able to kickstart their season off with a win, which is a sentence that’s never been used in 9 prior seasons. As the youngest squad in the league, they utilized that youth as well as a couple newcomers in Gardner and Morneault to top off an entertaining 3-2 win. The Golf Center fellas on the other hand took their 3-2, 2^nd period lead and rattled off 6 in the 3^rd to knock of the leagues best looking team. Looking ahead to this weeks slew of contests and we may be looking at a full slate of coinflips. Bonzers aforementioned youth can sometimes come with hiccups as the team needs a couple weeks to sniff each others jock straps and learn each others game play. The GC’s will lean on the veterans after Johnson and Breidenbach put together a monster first week. GC gets the nod here.

GC 7-6

Red Pepper vs. Rumors

Rumors looks to erase a week 1 loss---in week 3, as they match up against the Red Army this week. A few teams have new players this season via the summertime, golf course waiver wire; This game will feature one of those moves as long time Red Pepper star, T. Uglem, has made a locker room change. In an attempt to make the Uglem move a feel-good story for season 10, the league will do everything they can to manipulate the game in Rumors direction. Red Pepper will likely start with a 2-man disadvantage after 2 made up bench minors during warmups. Despite that, Rumors will have their hands full as the Bjorge Triplets were already causing havoc on the score sheet alongside another family connection in the Johnson’s. The usual suspects will keep Decker busy in net.

Pepper 9-5

AE2S vs. BWW

BWW hung in their game and put together a decent 2^nd half in their contest against Adams. After adding a couple of their own young fellas to their dressing room, they were able to see some contributions from the leagues 2^nd set of triplets with N. Corbett tallying his first point alongside fellow rookie, Graney. The engineers limped into week 1 with their dilapidated roster that saw some tough offseason departures. 22-year-old netminder, J. Wuitschick repeatedly reminded the Commish of how out of shape he is/was coming in to the game. Showing no sympathy at all, I followed up with reminding him that my 43-year-old body has to take a several rest breaks on my way to the bathroom at 1, 3 and 5 in the morning every night. Until the engineers start immediately 3D printing some extra players, they will need a couple more weeks to get back to game speed.

BWW 5-4

Matt Fac vs. Johnny’s

Both teams were involved in early season barn burners. Johnny’s losing by 1 goal, Matt Fac losing by 1 goal after 2 and punting on 3^rd period participation. Nothing fancy here this week as both rosters are relatively the same year over year with an addition or two. The Mattress makers swept last years season series and this week will get nod to take this first round matchup.

GR 7-3

NDAD/SG vs. Adams

Adams needed 8 seconds to begin their scoring summary for the season. A faceoff win and 4 muscly armed passes later led to their 1^st tally. They didn’t look back after the gentle giant, Costello, looked like a tank on the ice debuting a 4-point night. Meanwhile, in the bizarre, cant make it up department. The Broods began their 2025-26 campaign with a no 1^st period goalie strategy in which Sumner was under the impression the game started at 9:15pm. The teams group chat has been moved to Eastern Time Zone to avoid future issues. Going down by 3 immediately and by 4 to end the period, Broods miraculously made a comeback to win 8-5. This will likely be the game of the week as Adams is looking to display their bountiful roster and the Broods will rely on their experience as wily veterans do. This is a matchup we may see again in late February. Coinflip time.

Adams 6-5

 

 

2024-25 Year 9 Recap:

For the 9^th straight year, the second the season ended in early March, I again boarded ForxJet 1 and began vacationing with my Amish folks in Fordville, ND for the remainder of the summer, interning in furniture making. After returning to my corner office this week, I was able to fully reflect on the previous season. The 2024-25 season saw a few more of the OG’s (Adam’s Team specifically) move on to the next phase in their career which was a coming sign of age, skill depreciation and age again. The team parity across the league was better than the year before and what a sight to see all the teams record a positive number in the ‘win’ column. Last season also introduced the most new players to the league which sometimes can come with a bit of an adjustment period but despite that, we had the least amount of penalty minutes for the year and league history. The Playoff run was entertaining with the introduction of the new toilet bowl system. The top 4 teams were the same as the year before but flip-flopped in the end as Rumors beat Mattress 1928 for 3^rd place and the Red Pepper squad was able to reclaim their championship nod by beating fellow foe, Broods. Looking forward to more of the same as our 17-week adventure begins. With that…

 

Welcome back winter friends….… Year 10 begins. The picks are in.

 

Week 1 Picks

BWW vs. Adams

It was well documented last year how the Adams squad had reloaded. 2 years ago being the 3^rd oldest team to becoming the 2^nd youngest team in a matter of one offseason. With that, they are my predicted team to beat this season as they will again return a loaded squad with a few more names to fill some gaps. Too early to tell on the BWW side but they were able to claw their way up to a respectable 7^th place in the standings last season. Winning their play-in game, they were then ousted by the Broods in the Quarterfinals. Based on current knowledge, Adams directs the show on the season opener.

Adams 5-2

Mattress 1928 vs. Golf Center

An addition or two on either side for these two squads. GC is in that unique period of their beer league careers as kids and marriages are for some reason becoming more of a priority than Wednesday night hockey as many of the teams throughout have experienced. The Mattress makers are another year older and feeling that age as one of their tenured players submitted a release, seen here. Many of the 1928’s were not emotionally available for initial response except for M. Lukkason who responded with, “What took him so long to hit send on that email, didn’t he retire 2 years ago?” Golf Center had their first losing season since inception last year and will lean towards M-1928 as the favorite here.

Mattress 6-4

Bonzers vs. Johnnys

Johnny’s led many of the wrong categories last year. Losses and goals against being the elephant in the room. Defenseman C. Clausen hopes that by wearing shin pads this season he’ll be able to block one or two shots this year to bring the GA column back to double digits. One step ahead was the talk of the league last year in the Bonzers squad as their game play was fast and furious. Led by honorable mention rookie of the year, M. Reynolds, they’ll need a couple other squad mates to fill the gaps and would not be surprising to see them finish in the middle of the pack. These two teams were the toilet bowl competitors and split hairs with Johnny’s eventually taking the shootout winner. More of the same here with Bonzers having a slight advantage.

Bonzers 5-4

Broods vs. Rumors

The Broods are set to embark year 10 with a new look roster that features a Lamoureux-less opening night but hoping a couple youthful additions can spark their aging workload. Meanwhile Rumors roster consists of….I actually don’t know and when someone finds that out, please report. Rumors is either on the verge of extinction or they will sneakily put together a squad that can rattle off another solid season which they have done the past 9 seasons. Broods lost in last years final to a reloaded Red Pepper team, with Rumors taking the 3^rd place non-existent trophy. Broods gets the pick here until the Rumors roster report is submitted.

Broods 7-2

Red Pepper vs. AE2S

Red Pepper returns looking to repeat with what was nearly a perfect season in leading almost all categories in the stats department. What was perfect was their record. Going 17-0 on the season and winning the coveted cup in the end. The AE2S engineers return in a different look as many of their 58104 connections may have dried up. Too early to tell and not the right opponent to gauge their level of play but the nerds will suit up and hide their pale skin after spending another summer at various robotics camps. RP rolls on.

AE2S Key Returners: J. Solc,  B. Nelson, A. Wowrick, J. Wuitschick       Pepper Key Returners: None

RP 8-3