Revised ice hockey league comprising just eleven teams
The 2025/26 Oberliga North ice hockey season is set for a new mode of operation, following the exit of Essen. This change affects the league structure and schedules, including the test match program for teams like the Duisburg Foxes.
With Essen's departure, the Oberliga North is adapting to accommodate one less team, leading to revisions in the team's match schedules and competition format. For the Duisburg Foxes, this means changes to their preparation plans, particularly in terms of their test matches, as the number and timing of these fixtures need to be realigned within the new league setup.
Official information regarding the precise new mode of operation, the revised schedule, or the direct consequences for the Duisburg Foxes’ test matches for the 2025/26 season has not been explicitly available. However, it can be inferred that the Duisburg Foxes' test match program will be adapted to fit the revised league schedule, ensuring their preparation remains effective despite Essen's withdrawal from the competition.
The Oberliga North is planning a double round with 40 games for the 2025/26 season. The league is also considering a simple round for the top five and last six teams for play-off placement or qualification. This could potentially reshuffle teams' fixtures, affecting opportunities for test or friendly matches that teams plan around the league schedule.
The Duisburg Foxes have already completed their test match program for the upcoming season. They are scheduled to participate in the tournament around the Dragons Cup in Herford on September 13, 2025. The Foxes will also face either Tilburg Trappers or Saale Bulls Halle in a game for 3rd place or the final on September 14, 2025.
Meanwhile, the Moskitos Essen, who were refused a license and have decided not to appeal the decision, might not be able to start in the Regionalliga West due to economic prerequisites caused by new wage tax calculations. The impact on the Moskitos' ice hockey youth and inline hockey department (with numerous junior teams) is still unknown.
The Duisburg Foxes' league schedule is expected to be announced as the 2025/26 season approaches. For precise details or official confirmation, consulting the Oberliga North's official announcements or the Duisburg Foxes’ club communications would be recommended.
The Oberliga North's schedule updates following Essen's exit may necessitate adjustments to the Duisburg Foxes' test match program during the 2025/26 season, as they adapt to the new league setup. In light of the potential changes to the competitive format and fixture lists, the Duisburg Foxes' carefully planned test matches may need to be rescheduled or restructured to fit the revised league schedule.
