The Return of Jag Bal and New Beginnings for Berlin Thunder in ELF Season 2025
Berlin Thunder initiates the fresh Electronic Football League (ELF) campaign - Berlin Thunder Set to Launch New Sporting Campaign
Get ready for an exhilarating ride as Berlin Thunder, the city's American Football team, commences their fifth European League of Football (ELF) campaign on Sunday, once again under the guidance of head coach Jag Bal. Kicking off against the Cologne Centurions at 1:00 PM CET, the season promises to be a test of resilience and preparation.
Jag Bal, a familiar face to the Thunder, stepped back into his coaching boots in late January, replacing former coach Dean Cokinos who unexpectedly stepped down. Bal previously led the Thunder in their inaugural ELF season. Speaking of his return, the coach commented, "I didn't have the time to build the system I would have liked." In an attempt to create a more solid foundation, Bal has brought on board Adam Rita as the Offensive Coordinator, and Art Valero as the Offensive Line Coach. Rita boasts extensive coaching experience, including multiple Grey Cup championships, while Valero has a strong NFL and college coaching background. These additions to the team are expected to bolster their offensive strength and performance.
Sunday's game may see the return of quarterback Jakeb Sullivan, who performed exceptionally well during the 2024 season, being the league’s passing yards leader. However, the team will be without the services of Aaron Jackson, who has moved to the Berlin Rebels in the GFL after much consideration. Despite the loss of key players like Kyle Kitchens to division rival Hamburg Sea Devils, Berlin will still field experienced veterans such as defensive back Moritz Thiele and receiver Nicolai Schumann.
One of the most significant changes for the Thunder since the 2024 season concerns the team's management and ownership structure. Former NFL player Bjoern Werner stepped down as a shareholder and sports director, with Ulrich W. Kramer and Rachid Moka now listed as managing directors. Keeping the stadium talk rolling, the Preussenstadion in Berlin-Lankwitz will serve as the home turf for the Berlin Thunder, following the unavailability of the large stadium in the Jahn-Sportpark. Renovations to the Preussenstadion are urgently required, with only minimal improvements like seating expected for the upcoming game.
Despite the challenges, the Berlin Thunder is determined to make their mark in the 2025 ELF season. With a dynamic new coaching team and a solid nucleus of veterans, they aim to reignite the capital's passion for American football. Let the season begin!
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Insights:
- Adam Rita and Art Valero are the new Offensive Coordinator and Offensive Line Coach, respectively. They have impressive coaching resumes and are expected to strengthen Berlin Thunder’s offensive line performance.
- The team has faced a notable roster overhaul, with star players such as Jadrian Clark and Glen Toonga having departed. Jakeb Sullivan will remain as the starting quarterback, backed by veteran presence.
- Despite ongoing stadium renovations, the Preussenstadion serves as Berlin Thunder's home for the upcoming 2025 season. Significant changes at the ownership level have occurred following the 2024 season.
I'm not going to be able to do this (rebuild the system I would have liked) as head coach for Berlin Thunder due to the various changes and limitations, especially considering the absence of key players and the urgent stadium renovations prior to the upcoming game at the Preussenstadion in Berlin-Lankwitz. Despite these challenges, I'm excited to lead the American Football team in the 2025 ELF season and make a mark with the help of new offensive strategists Adam Rita and Art Valero.
