eSwahn

The European Championship League continues with its ECL ’26 Winter season, bringing another round of top-level eHockey competition across all divisions. Whether you’re aiming for Elite glory or making your first appearance in Neo, be sure your team is registered before the deadlines below 👇 ⚠️ Important: The Pro Wildcard Battle sign-ups close today, November 3rd — this is your last chance to secure a spot in the Pro Qualifier and keep your ECL Pro ambitions alive. ✅ For Wildcard Teams Teams that have already signed up — or plan to sign up during the day — for the Pro Wildcard Battle should ensure that their roster is complete before the deadline. To be eligible for a Wildcard, your roster must meet one of the following requirements: Three former Elite starters, or Four former Pro starters A “starter” is defined as a player who played 16 or more games in either the ECL ’25: Spring or ECL ’25: Winter season. Make sure your lineup meets the criteria and is fully set before sign-ups close! 🏁 ECL ’26 Winter Sign-Up Deadlines ECL Pro Wildcard Battle: Deadline is today, November 3, 2025. Last chance to secure a place in the Pro Qualifier! ECL Elite, Pro, Lite & Pro Qualifier: All entries must be in by November 9, 2025. The competition will be fierce — make sure your lineup is ready to compete among Europe’s best. ECL Core & Neo: Final sign-up day is November 27, 2025. Perfect for new teams looking to gain experience and start their ECL journey. 🕛 All sign-ups close at 23:59 CET on the listed dates unless otherwise specified. Get your team ready, finalize your roster, and be part of the action as Europe’s best eHockey clubs battle for glory. 👉 For full details and registration links, visit the official ECL ’26 Winter announcement on SportsGamer. New to the ECL or curious how the divisions work? ➡️ Learn more here: What is the ECL?

Hey Gamers, The wait is over — it’s time to kick off the NHL 26 season with the ECL ‘26 Pre-Season Tournament. This friendly event gives teams the chance to warm up for the upcoming ECL season in a relaxed and flexible setting. With three competitive tiers, there’s something for everyone — from top contenders fine-tuning their play to new teams getting their first taste of ECL action. Each tier features its own playoffs, offering every team a chance to compete, improve, and prepare for the season ahead. Get your lineups ready and hit the ice — the ECL ‘26 Pre-Season starts now. The ECL is the pinnacle of European NHL esports. The abbreviation stands for the European Championship League and it features NHL 6v6 esports in five divisions aimed at various skill levels. Every player, including the goalies, is controlled by a human. League games are played in the EASHL mode and the platform is PlayStation and Xbox. ECL has been played since 2015. Basic information/requirements of ECL: The tournament will be played on the NHL 26 (PlayStation 5 & Xbox Series X/S) Regional restrictions: ECL is a European tournament format, however, we do not necessarily exclude players located in North America or Asia. A European server will always be used. We reserve the right to exclude teams or players in case of severe connection issues. Individual requirements: Each player needs to have an account at SportsGamer.GG and create their personal player card. ECL licenses: Teams in ECL Elite & ECL Pro, ECL Lite, and ECL Core will require their respective ECL ‘26: Winter team licenses in order to play. In addition, every player in the above-mentioned divisions needs to have a valid ECL ‘26: Player License or ECL ‘26: Winter Player License before taking the ice. Players in ECL Neo require only an ECL '26: Winter Neo Player License. The ECL '26 Pre-Season tournament does not require the license, Rules: ECL '26: Winter Official Rules | Also see ECL ’26: Winter - Ability & Build Bans ECL Pre-Season As stated, the tournament will be hosted in three tiers without any major restrictions except for the ones mentioned below. Elite & Pro See schedule here Only ECL Elite & ECL Pro teams, and by special request wildcard & qualifier teams This is a friendly warmup tournament, no need to argue (=no League Admin cases) Regular season 30.10-10.11 Teams are divided into two groups Top 4 from each group makes it into the playoffs Playoffs (BO5) 13.-16.11 (Quarterfinals) 17.-20.11 (Semifinals) 23-25.11 (Finals) 👉 Note: This Pre-Season will overlap with the ECL Winter Qualifiers. If you know or expect to participate in the Elite or Pro Qualifiers, you should skip the Pre-Season to avoid schedule conflicts. Sign-ups are open until 12:00 CET, October 28th. SIGN UP HERE Lite & Core See schedule here Only ECL Lite & ECL Core teams, and by special request wildcard teams & qualifier teams This is a friendly warmup tournament, no need to argue (=no League Admin cases) Regular season 30.10-10.11 Teams are divided into ten groups Top 3 from each group, plus the best two #4 teams make it into the playoffs Playoffs (BO3) 12-13.11 (RO32) 16.-17.11 (RO16) 19.-20.11 (Quarterfinals) 23-25.11 (Semifinals) 27.11 (Finals) Sign-ups are open until 12:00 CET, October 28th. SIGN UP HERE Neo & Newcomers See schedule here Only ECL Neo & Newcomer teams This is a friendly warmup tournament, no need to argue (=no League Admin cases) Regular season 30.10-12.11 Teams are divided into six groups Top 2 from each group, plus the best four #3 teams make it into the playoffs. Playoffs (BO3) 13-14.11 (RO16) 16.-17.11 (Quarterfinals) 19.-20.11 (Semifinals) 23-24.11 (Finals) Sign-ups are open until 12:00 CET, October 28th. SIGN UP HERE Uniform and logo unlocks for organizations This form is intended for organizations associated with SportsGamer to request primarily uniform and logo unlocks in order to represent their team appropriately. Here is a link for the unlocks form: https://forms.gle/3RezYrzCm1yZFFdU9 Rules Although the Pre-Season Tournament will not be under as strict scrutiny as the ECL, we want to remind you to respect your opponents and go about the games just as you would when playing real ECL league matchups. Rules: ECL '26: Winter Official Rules | Also see ECL ’26: Winter - Ability & Build Bans If teams are tied in points after the group stage, we will utilize these usual tie-breakers: Wins (including OT-wins) Head-to-head record (points in mutual games) Goal difference (across all games played) Scored goals (across all games played) We hope you're as excited as we are to get back into the action - build your team, sign up, and have fun!

SG Vetomiehet are the champions of Summer Cup ’25 after defeating SG Outlaws 2–0 in the best-of-three final series. The matchup turned into a showcase of high-paced offense, but when it mattered most, Vetomiehet’s finishing touch made the difference. A Draft Masterclass This year’s Summer Cup was played as a draft tournament, putting extra emphasis on strategy before the puck even dropped. @SadaPoika, captain of Vetomiehet, proved his eye for talent was just as sharp as his scoring touch. By assembling a balanced, high-powered lineup, he gave his squad the foundation it needed to succeed — and then led them on the ice all the way to the trophy. SG Vetomiehet roster: @xrikardo55– Forward @SadaPoika (C) – Forward, Captain @Jokinen_Boy – Center @MartindalexC – Defense @Malcom330 – Defense @bottiHarden - – Forward @hugobrann72 – Forward @Juntti33333 – Forward @JanEerikBanan – Forward @Erwan peltier – Forward @RPH_31 – Goaltender @FoxGoalie – Goaltender Game 1: A Comeback for the Ages The opening game was a rollercoaster. Outlaws stormed out to a commanding 3–0 lead with goals from @aJuti, @ViSiOnZ97_, and @Aschebas4or. But Vetomiehet answered back in style. Led by @xrikardo55 , who recorded a hat trick, and @SadaPoika himself, they clawed their way back before @SadaPoika sealed the comeback with a late 6–5 goal. The dramatic turnaround gave Vetomiehet the early edge in the series. Game 2: Efficiency Over Volume The second game followed a familiar script. Outlaws dominated the shot clock (29–11) and controlled long stretches of play, but Vetomiehet were ruthless in front of goal. @xrikardo55 struck twice more, while @SadaPoika and @Malcom330 added crucial tallies. Despite a standout hat trick from @Winci-_o, Outlaws couldn’t contain Vetomiehet’s clinical finishing as the top seed closed out the series with a 6–4 victory. Key Players @xrikardo55 was the undisputed hero of the finals, scoring six goals across the two games. @SadaPoika showcased his dual threat as both a scorer and playmaker, contributing at decisive moments in both matches. @Jokinen_Boy J0K1N3Nx added crucial secondary scoring and playmaking, finishing with a goal and four assists in the finals while driving the attack from center. @MartindalexC and @Malcom330 anchored the blue line while chipping in offensively, with Martindale registering key assists. In net, @RPH_31 got the nod for the finals and provided timely stops, highlighted by a 25-save performance in Game 2 that kept Outlaws from turning the tide. Summary Outlaws had the momentum at times and dictated play for long stretches, but Vetomiehet’s offensive stars proved too sharp when it mattered. With @xrikardo55 and @SadaPoika leading the charge and steady contributions from the supporting cast, Vetomiehet lifted the Summer Cup ’25 trophy and cemented their place as the most complete team of the tournament. Final Results: Game 1: Outlaws 5–6 Vetomiehet Game 2: Outlaws 4–6 Vetomiehet Congratulations to SG Vetomiehet — and well played to SG Outlaws, who pushed the series with determination and showed why they belonged in the final.

After two dramatic semifinals, the stage is set for the Summer Cup 2025 final. On Wednesday, September 3rd at 19:30 CEST, SG Vetomiehet and SG Outlaws will battle for the championship in what promises to be a clash of two distinct styles — Vetomiehet’s balanced, structured play against Outlaws’ explosive offense. Road to the Final Vetomiehet survived a tense semifinal series against SG Goblins. They opened strong, taking Game 1 by 5–3, before falling 2–4 in Game 2. With the series tied, they regrouped and sealed their ticket to the final with another 5–3 victory in the decisive third game. Throughout the series, the duo of @SadaPoika and @xrikardo55 were difference-makers, combining for goals at crucial moments. Goaltender @FoxGoalie provided the stability needed to hold off the Goblins’ dangerous scorers. Outlaws, meanwhile, went through SG Showtime in two games. Game 1 was a nail-biter, ending 4–3 after Showtime nearly forced overtime. Game 2 was a different story: Outlaws overpowered their opponents 6–2 with a relentless forecheck and clinical finishing. @ViSiOnZ97_ and @aJuti spearheaded the attack, while @martinssilins added secondary scoring to underline Outlaws’ offensive depth.   Key Players to Watch @SadaPoika, Vetomiehet 27 points in 8 playoff games (13G, 14A) makes him the most productive forward in the finals. Leskinen thrives on the powerplay and has proven to be a clutch finisher. @xrikardo55, Vetomiehet A dynamic winger with 24 points in the playoffs, Ojala’s playmaking and chemistry with Leskinen is the core of Vetomiehet’s offense. @ViSiOnZ97_, Outlaws Outlaws’ offensive catalyst — 43 points in the group stage (22G, 21A) and more goals in the playoffs. If Hämmerle finds space, he’s almost impossible to stop. @aJuti, Outlaws A consistent two-way threat with 41 points in the group stage and a hat trick in the semifinals. His combination of defensive responsibility and offensive production is vital. Goaltenders: @RPH_31 (Vetomiehet) vs @Redhawk1765 (Outlaws) RPH_31 has quietly been reliable with an 82–83% save percentage in both group stage and playoffs, while Redhawk enters the final as one of the hottest goalies in the tournament at 86.8%. Tale of the Tape: Group Stage Stats Vetomiehet: @SadaPoika (72 pts), @xrikardo55(76 pts), @Jokinen_Boy (32 pts). @RPH_31 carried the crease with an 83.45% SV% and 2.4 GAA. Outlaws: @ViSiOnZ97_(43 pts), @ViSiOnZ97_ (41 pts), @martinssilins (36 pts), @Winci-_o (35 pts). Between the pipes, @Redhawk1765  stopped 86% of shots in the group stage. What to Expect This final pits Vetomiehet’s top-heavy but clinical Finnish attack against Outlaws’ deeper, more distributed scoring. Special teams may be decisive: Leskinen and Ojala have punished opponents on the powerplay, while Outlaws showed in the semifinals that they can strike short-handed as well. Defensively, Vetomiehet will look to control tempo and avoid getting dragged into the high-event chaos that favors Outlaws. Meanwhile, Outlaws will try to overwhelm with speed and forecheck pressure, forcing turnovers that turn quickly into goals. The Bottom Line Vetomiehet come into the final with the tournament’s most dangerous duo in @SadaPoika and @xrikardo55, but Outlaws counter with arguably the deepest offensive unit in the Summer Cup. With @RPH_31 and @Redhawk1765 set to face an onslaught of shots, this championship could be decided in net as much as in front of it. Expect goals, momentum swings, and a fittingly dramatic end to Summer Cup 2025.   ⚔️ Final: SG Vetomiehet vs SG Outlaws 📅 Wednesday, September 3rd 🕢 19:30 CEST 📺 Watch live: https://www.twitch.tv/reactiomedia (no commentators) 

After an intense group stage, the Summer Cup ’25 is moving into the playoffs. The top 8 teams from each group advanced, and the first knockout rounds have already delivered drama, surprises, and big performances. Group Stage – Favorites Set the Tone In Group 1, it was SG Vetomiehet who set the pace. With 18 wins in 20 games and a staggering 109 goals scored, they convincingly claimed the top spot. Right behind them, SG Summercamp also impressed with a well-rounded performance built on balanced offense and strong teamwork. SG Isot Mailat and SG The Finnish Boys both secured playoff spots through steady play, while teams like SG Sopulis Dags and SG Meudon clinched their places with important late wins. The group was high-scoring and competitive, with several teams fighting for a playoff position right until the end. In Group 2, the battle at the top was even closer. SG Showtime ultimately claimed first place with 51 points, backed by one of the tournament’s strongest defensive records. Right on their heels, SG Outlaws finished with 48 points, combining offensive firepower with standout goaltending. SG Goblins secured third place thanks to a rock-solid defense that allowed just 41 goals, while SG Revengers earned fourth with one of the tournament’s most dangerous attacks. Teams like SG Fiasko and SG Frostbyte also pushed through to the playoffs, underlining just how competitive Group 2 turned out to be. 👑 Individual Standouts from the Group Stage 🏒 Points Leaders @xrikardo55 (SG Vetomiehet) led all scorers with an incredible 76 points (26G, 50A) in 18 games. His teammate @SadaPoika wasn’t far behind, recording 72 points (38G, 34A) in 20 games, proving Vetomiehet’s offensive depth. Just behind them were @Unknownlehtis (SG Revengers) and @KingOfApes_ (SG Revengers), both with 61 points. Next up is @1mmu9 (SG Salad Bros) with 52 points (32G, 20A), one of the top finishers of the group stage. On the same total, but with fewer goals and a standout points-per-game, is @RojuppiGG (SG Sopulis Dags) with 52 in 11 games. 🅰️ Assist Leaders Once again, @xrikardo55stood out, topping the assist chart with 50 helpers. He was followed by @Dander with 36 assists, and @SadaPoika with 34 assists. 🥅 Goaltenders Goaltending has already played a huge role in this tournament – and no one stood taller than @FINSeRe (SG Outlaws). He led all goalies with an outstanding 85,56% save percentage and a 2.25 GAA, proving to be a cornerstone for the Outlaws’ playoff run. Close behind was @Lakhen_PS (SG Showtime) with 85.42% SV% and 2.63 GAA, while @RPH_31 (SG Vetomiehet) posted 83.45% SV% and 2.40 GAA, giving Vetomiehet the steady presence they needed. @TheSpeedo (SG Meudon) stood out for his workload, playing 20 games with an 82.47% SV% and 3.05 GAA. Rounding out the top performers, @FoxGoalie (SG Vetomiehet) finished with a stellar 88.2% SV% and 2.4 GAA, the best save percentage of the group stage. Meanwhile, @poweriq matched his 88.2% SV%, but with a higher 3.0 GAA, placing him just behind in the goalie rankings Round of 16 – Favorites Advance, Upsets Appear The first playoff round brought both expected results and tense battles: SG Vetomiehet (1) swept SG Mighty Wolves (8) 2–0. SG Summercamp (2) battled past SG Frostbyte (7) in a tight 2–1 series. SG Fiasko (6) delivered one of the big upsets, defeating SG Isot Mailat (3) 2–1. SG The Finnish Boys (4) advanced with a 2–0 sweep over SG Dynamo (5). SG Showtime (1) cruised past SG Kuraosasto (8) with a 2–0 sweep. SG Outlaws (2) handled SG Salad Bros (7) 2–1. SG Goblins (3) convincingly swept SG Meudon (6) 2–0. SG Sopulis Dags (5) pulled off a big upset, taking down SG Revengers (4) 2–1 in one of the round’s most dramatic clashes. Quarterfinals – Tight Battles and Statements The quarterfinals raised the intensity further with several heavyweight clashes: SG Vetomiehet (1) were pushed by SG Fiasko (11) but advanced 2–1. SG Showtime (2) kept their composure, shutting down SG Sopulis Dags (9) with a 2–0 sweep. SG Outlaws (3) continued their strong run, taking down SG The Finnish Boys (8) 2–1. SG Goblins (5) impressed with one of the most dominant quarterfinal performances, sweeping SG Summercamp (4) 2–0. 🔥 Playoff Leaders (So Far) Skaters @hifk_FANI (SG Goblins) has been on fire with 19 points (5G, 14A) in just 4 games, averaging 4.75 PPG. @Toivone_ ToikkaaZ (SG Summercamp) matched him with 19 points (4G, 15A in 5 games) before his team bowed out. @Jondeezz (SG Goblins) has been lethal in front of goal with 13 goals and 17 points in 4 games. @SadaPoika (SG Vetomiehet) continues his strong form, notching 17 points (7G, 10A) in 5 games. @sopulii_ (SG Sopulis Dags) was a bright spot with 17 points (4G, 13A) in 5 games despite elimination. Goaltenders @FINSeRe (SG Showtime) leads all playoff goalies with a 91.7% save percentage and 1.50 GAA in 2 games. @Tptk00 (SG Goblins) has been flawless when called upon, posting 90.9% SV% and 0.50 GAA in 2 starts. @FoxGoalie (SG Vetomiehet) has been steady with 87.5% SV% and 1.50 GAA. @Redhawk1765 (SG Outlaws) holds 86.5% SV% and 2.33 GAA across 3 games. @Asap_Kev321 (SG Outlaws) has split duties, recording 83.3% SV% and 3.00 GAA in his appearances. So far, the Goblins’ top line has been the most explosive, Vetomiehet’s depth remains a key asset, Showtime are riding elite goaltending, and the Outlaws continue to spread the scoring across their lineup. Semifinals Await With the quarterfinals wrapped up, the stage is set for two massive semifinal showdowns: SG Vetomiehet (1) vs SG Goblins (5) 📅 Monday, September 1st – 21:00 CEST 📺 Watch live: twitch.tv/sadapoika / twitch.tv/iserlohner_esportsclub SG Vetomiehet, the dominant force of Group 1, enter the semifinals with the depth, scoring power, and experience that made them the top seed. Their duo of @xrikardo55 and @SadaPoika continues to be one of the most dangerous pairings in the tournament, and their defense has shown the ability to shut down even high-powered offenses. But now they face SG Goblins, a team that has been red-hot in the playoffs. With @hifk_FANI and @Jondeezz combining for 36 points in just 4 playoff games, the Goblins’ attack has been ruthless, and their goaltending has quietly been among the best in the tournament. This matchup looks like a clash between balanced dominance and explosive momentum. SG Showtime (2) vs SG Outlaws (3) 📅 Monday, September 1st – 19:30 CEST 📺 Watch live: twitch.tv/ajutiv / twitch.tv/xmikka31 On the other side, SG Showtime – the Group 2 winners – will meet SG Outlaws, the runners-up. Showtime have leaned on a rock-solid defensive system, backstopped by stellar goaltending from @FINSeRe and @Lakhen_PS, both of whom have been lights out when it mattered most. Outlaws, meanwhile, are one of the most well-rounded squads left in the tournament. They don’t rely on a single superstar, but instead spread the scoring across their lineup with @martinssilins, @Aschebas4or, and @maqareal all producing at a steady pace. Combined with a strong goalie tandem of @Redhawk1765 and @Asap_Kev321, they’ve been tough to beat in tight games. Both semifinals pit group-stage giants against playoff upstarts. With a spot in the finals on the line, expect nerves, intensity, and possibly some overtime drama. Conclusion The Summer Cup ’25 has already delivered plenty of action – from dominant group stage performances to dramatic knockout round clashes. With four teams left standing, the semifinals promise to bring even more fireworks. Expect stars to shine, defenses to tighten, and goalies to steal the spotlight as we get closer to crowning the Summer Cup ’25 champion. 🎙️ Finals Commentary We are also looking for people interested in commentating the Summer Cup ’25 Final, which will be played sometime between September 2–4. If you’d like to get involved and bring the final to life with your voice, reach out to the admins!

 🏒 Summer Cup ’25: Early Impressions & First Sparks The Summer Cup ’25 has officially started, and while only a handful of games have been played, we’ve already seen big plays, tight matchups, and some standout performances worth talking about. It’s still very early in the tournament, so it’s tough to draw any firm conclusions — but the opening rounds are starting to give us a first glimpse of which teams and players might be ones to watch as things unfold. 🔥 Hot Starts – Teams to Watch In Group 1, SG Vetomiehet have taken full control early on with a perfect 4–0–0 record. With 12 points and a clean 3.0 points per game, they’ve proven to be the most balanced team in the group — combining efficient offense (4.75 GF/GP) with a reliable defense and an impressive 66.67% powerplay. Below them, there’s a tight cluster of teams trying to break out. SG Kuraosasto have quietly impressed with 2.5 P/G from just two games and a perfect penalty kill. SG Isot Mailat, while sitting second in the standings with 6 points, average just 1.5 P/G, showing inconsistency despite a decent 14 goals scored. In Group 2, SG Outlaws have set the pace with a dominant 6–0–0 start, leading the group with 17 points and a solid 2.83 points per game.  Their well-rounded game includes 28 goals scored and a team save percentage of 88.24%, showing strength on both ends of the ice. Close behind are SG Revengers, who remain undefeated and average a group-best 7.5 goals per game. Their 3.0 P/G shows they’re keeping up in the standings while lighting up the scoreboard more than any other team. Meanwhile, SG Goblins and SG Showtime have also started strong with two wins each from two games, giving them a perfect 3.0 P/G. With goal differentials of +12 and +8 respectively, they’ve made it clear they’re not just here to participate — they’re in it to contend.   ❄️ Still Warming Up With the group stage still in its early phase, some teams are taking a bit longer to hit their stride — but there’s still plenty of time to turn things around. In Group 2, SG Mighty Wolves have had a tough start, going 0–4, but with each game they’re gaining experience and opportunities to adjust. SG MR MIYAGIS and SG Dynamo are also still looking for their first win, but both have shown flashes of promise despite limited offensive output so far. SG KohKae Esports are yet to pick up a point, while SG KOZEL have earned an overtime win and are working on finding consistency as the group stage progresses. In Group 1, both SG Salad Bros and SG Summer Boys are still searching for that first win, while SG Blanks have yet to play their opening match, so their full potential remains to be seen. Meanwhile, SG Sopulis Dags have been one of the most active teams in the tournament so far, with six games under their belt. They’ve picked up two wins and scored 18 goals — a sign of their offensive capability. With a few tweaks defensively and on special teams, they could still climb the standings quickly. Every team still has everything to play for — and with more games coming up, we might just see a few surprise turnarounds.   👑 Standout Players The early leader in points is @Unknownlehtis from SG Revengers, putting up 23 points (11G, 12A) in just 4 games — absolutely dominant. His teammate @KingOfApes_ follows closely with 20 points, giving the Revengers a deadly duo at the top of the leaderboard. Other top scorers include @Jondeezz (SG Goblins) with 15 points in only 2 games, and @xrikardo55 (SG Vetomiehet) and @Niilo9494 TTVNIILO9494 (pobbe1234) (SG Revengers) who are also sitting at 15 points each. In net, @Lakhen_PS (SG Showtime) leads the way with a stellar 94.3% save percentage and just 1.0 goals against per game. Not far behind is @jorkkiiz from SG Sopulis Dags, who’s also been rock solid with a 91.7% save percentage and 1.0 GAA in two starts. @TheSpeedo of SG Meudon has also impressed early, posting a 90.9% SV% and 2.0 GAA. Meanwhile, @Aschebas4or and @Asap_Kev321, both representing SG Outlaws, have provided steady goaltending with 88.6% and 88.2% save percentages, respectively — each allowing just 2.0 goals per game. Together, they give the Outlaws one of the strongest goalie duos in the tournament.   🧭 Early Signs & What Lies Ahead Plenty of games remain, but early results are already hinting at what kind of tournament we might be in for. SG Outlaws have opened strong with a clean 6–0 start, while SG Revengers are lighting up the scoreboard with one of the most dangerous offenses so far. Teams like SG Goblins, SG Vetomiehet, and SG Showtime have also made solid first impressions — and look like they could be real contenders if the momentum continues. Meanwhile, others are still finding their footing. It’s early days, and with group standings still wide open, there’s plenty of time for struggling teams to flip the script. We’ve already seen standout performances, highlight-reel goals, and clutch goaltending — and there’s much more to come. With every game counting, the race for playoff spots is just beginning to heat up. Summer Cup ’25 is off to a promising start — and the best is yet to come. 👉 For full standings, stats, and results, check out: https://sportsgamer.gg/leagues/471/standings   👋 Still want to be part of the action? We’re putting together a backup list for players who weren’t drafted but still want a chance to join a team if a spot opens up. If you’d like to be on the list as a potential sub or late addition, just send me a DM and I’ll add you. No guarantees — but it’s a great way to stay involved and maybe still hit the ice this summer!

📣 Reminder: Last Day to Sign Up is Tomorrow (July 17)! Hey SportsGamers! Just a quick heads-up that tomorrow, July 17, is the final day to sign up for the Summer Cup '25 (EU). Don’t miss your chance to join in on this classic summer tournament! We also really need more captains to step up. If you’re even a bit curious about it — go for it! It’s one of the most fun ways to get involved, meet new people, and help make the tournament a great experience for everyone. If you’ve already signed up but want to switch to being a captain, you can edit your sign-up form or just reach out to the admins and we’ll help you make the change. To make things easier this year, we’ve set up a dedicated draft system on the website that will guide you through the entire process. It’s designed to make picking your team as smooth and stress-free as possible.   We’re also looking for one or two people who’d like to help commentate the draft — so if that sounds fun, let us know! And for those who’ve already signed up — don’t forget to accept your invitation to the Draft team on SportsGamer. That’s how you confirm you’re in! So if you haven’t signed up yet — now’s the time! Let’s get those spots filled and make this the best Summer Cup yet. Sign up here: https://sportsgamer.gg/summercup Join the Discord: https://sportsgamer.gg/discord

Hey SportsGamers! The Summer Cup has always been our go-to for some chill competition during the summer. It’s been a while since we ran it like this, but it’s finally back! You’ve been asking for it, so here it is! Last time was back in 2019, with over 450 players and 31 teams joining in. Now, after a few years off, we’re pumped to bring it back for the 25th edition in Europe! 🇪🇺🏒 What is the Summer Cup? The Summer Cup is a casual draft tournament designed to welcome both experienced players and newcomers to the SportsGamer community. It’s a perfect opportunity to network, find new teammates, and get ready for future ECL seasons. For rookies, this is a fantastic and low-pressure entry into the competitive scene. Focus on Fun and Community In this 2025 edition, the focus is purely on community building, networking, and having fun - meaning there will be no prize pool this time around. It’s all about enjoying the off-season together through the spirit of competition and camaraderie. Schedule The last day to sign up for the Cup is July 17. After that, the draft will take place on the afternoon of Sunday, July 20, and captains will need to be available to pick their teams. The regular season will kick off right after, starting on July 21. Team Structure and Draft Rules Each team will consist of 12-14 players, and the teams will be split into groups of 10. To ensure diversity and balance, no more than two regular teammates (from the same club team) will be allowed on the same Summer Cup roster. Players will be seeded into baskets based on their perceived skill level, using data from the most recent season across Elite, Pro, Lite Core, and Neo divisions. Playing Time and Format All players are guaranteed to play at least four games during the Summer Cup, to ensure an inclusive and engaging experience for everyone. Matches will be played in dedicated EASHL clubs, with all team names carrying the “SG” prefix - for example, SG Golden Knights. Are you Captain material? We’re looking for players to fill the boots of the captains putting together the teams - so if you’re even a little bit interested, go for it! It’s one of the best ways to get involved and make the Summer Cup experience even better. As a captain, you’ll be in on the action during the draft on Sunday (July 20) afternoon, picking your own squad. After that, you’ll help run the team, keeping things organized, scheduling games, and making sure everyone’s having a good time. It’s a chance to meet new people, show some leadership, and just have fun running your own team. We’d love to see as many of you as possible sign up! We’re excited to bring this tradition back — and we hope you are too. Let’s make Summer Cup '25 a tournament to remember! 🌟 All tournament communication will be handled through Discord, so if you haven’t already, please join here: https://sportsgamer.gg/discord SIGN UP HERE

The Spring season in the Neo division is over, and Personal Rainerit have emerged as clear champions after defeating Fladie Faxes 3–1 in the final series. It was a dominant campaign from start to finish, with Personal Rainerit losing only one single game all season—and it came in the finals against Fladie Faxes. Their run was nearly flawless. They topped their group with 14 wins in 14 games, including one overtime win, scoring at will with over 10 goals per game on average while conceding just 2 per game. That offensive firepower carried over into the playoffs, where they swept past opponents and faced Fladie Faxes in the final. The final series showed they could handle adversity. After taking Game 1 with a convincing 7–4 win, they stumbled in Game 2, dropping it 2–3 in a tight battle—their only loss of the entire season. But they answered immediately with a statement 7–2 victory in Game 3 and finished the job in Game 4 with a decisive 5–1 win to clinch the title.   Offensive Powerhouses The team’s top scorers lit up both the regular season and playoffs. @ttskede was the league’s undisputed offensive leader with 121 points in 14 regular-season games (68 goals, 53 assists) and kept it going in the playoffs with 86 points in 16 games. @Elop-_- was equally lethal, adding 80 points in the regular season and 68 in the playoffs. They weren’t alone. @hugobrann72, @Veljenpoika69, @Maltseviii, @joku_johonki and backups like @Mallungoldi and @J20NA01 added depth and balance, making the lineup dangerous from top to bottom. Reliable in Goal In net, @The-Tankki235 and @JonttuM12 shared duties and delivered when it counted. Both goalies posted solid numbers with save percentages over 80%, helping keep the team steady even when games got tight.   A True Statement Season Personal Rainerit’s run in Neo was nothing short of dominant. Their ability to score in bunches, bounce back immediately from their lone loss, and finish series with authority showed they were a level above the competition. With this title, they’ve proven they’re ready for the next step and will be a team to watch going forward. Personal Rainerit Roster: Forwards: @ttskede @Elop-_- @hugobrann72 @J20NA01 Defense: @Veljenpoika69 @Maltseviii @joku_johonki @Mallungoldi Goalies: @The-Tankki235 @JonttuM12 ARMEIJAN KURI Road To The Championship: Regular Season: 13-1-0-0 (41pts) - 1st in Group 2 1st round: 3-0 vs Strength Of The Pack 2nd round: 3-0 vs Hawks Gaming Quarterfinals: 3-0 vs Tibro HC Semifinal: 3-0 vs Clowns On Ice Finals: 3-1 vs Fladie Faxes

ARMEIJAN KURI are your ECL ‘25: Spring – Core Champions The Spring season in the Core division has concluded with ARMEIJAN KURI taking home the championship after a dramatic 4–3 series win over Conexion. It capped off an impressive campaign that saw them finish the regular season with a 20-0-1-3 record (61 points), topping Group 2. Their playoff run was equally strong: 4–1 in the first round against Zamboni Zorros, a 4–0 sweep of Beer Bears in round two, 4–2 over MIESKISSAT in the quarterfinals, 4–2 against Nordic Nosebleed in the semifinals, and finally a hard-fought 4–3 victory over Conexion in the finals. This final was anything but easy for ARMEIJAN KURI. They opened with a solid 4–2 win on the road in Game 1 to set the tone. But Conexion responded immediately in Game 2, stealing a tight 2–1 overtime win away from home. Back on their own ice for Game 3, Conexion dominated with a 6–0 blowout to take the series lead. ARMEIJAN KURI bounced back in Game 4 with a clutch 4–3 overtime victory at home to even things up. In Game 5, they earned a hard-fought 2–1 road win to get back in front in the series. Conexion refused to go away, forcing a decisive Game 7 with a 1–0 overtime win in Game 6. But in the winner-takes-all Game 7, ARMEIJAN KURI delivered under pressure with a composed 4–1 road victory to claim the championship.   Key Performers and Team Effort The team’s production was well spread out. @hefezuk85 led the way with 79 points in 28 games (33 goals, 46 assists), showing top-end consistency all season. @MutainenMalik and @WIRTAAZKIN47 were also strong offensive contributors, giving the lineup depth and balance. @Wertigosetti19 and @SUONEKASKOSTAJA_ added two-way stability and grit in tough games. In goal, @kasuri1 was steady all season and especially reliable in the playoffs. Over 28 games, they earned 20 wins with an 83.8% save percentage. Their ability to make key stops in close games was a big part of ARMEIJAN KURI’s success in a final series full of overtime and one-goal games. ARMEIJAN KURI stuck to a strong core lineup throughout the season, building chemistry and trust. Their ability to handle pressure, bounce back from tough losses, and deliver in high-stakes OT games proved they had the mentality of champions. They also got valuable contributions from players like @Wirta88 and @KunKKu_1998, who stepped up when the team needed them most.. With the title secured, ARMEIJAN KURI have shown they’re ready for the challenge of competing in the Lite division next season.   ARMEIJAN KURI Roster: Forwards: @MutainenMalik @hefezuk85 @WIRTAAZKIN47 @Wirta88 Defense: @SUONEKASKOSTAJA_ @Wertigosetti19 @KunKKu_1998 Goalies: @kasuri1 ARMEIJAN KURI Road To The Championship: Regular Season: 20-0-1-3 (61pts) - 1st in Group 2 1st round: 4-1 vs Zamboni Zorros 2nd round: 4-0 vs Beer Bears Quarterfinals: 4-2 vs MIESKISSAT Semifinal: 4-2 vs Nordic Nosebleed Finals: 4-3 vs Conexion

The Grand Final: Personal Rainerit vs Fladie Faxes The final has the matchup everyone anticipated but with two teams that took very different roads to get here. Personal Rainerit enter as the unstoppable force of these playoffs. They swept Tibro HC 3–0 in the quarterfinals and then dismantled Clowns On Ice 3–0 in the semifinals with clinical, relentless offense, scoring 18 goals while conceding just 3. Their top line has been lethal all tournament, led by @ttskede, who has scored 38 goals and 34 assists for 72 points in 12 games while shooting at over 41%—a staggering conversion rate for this level. He’s flanked by @Elop-_-, not far behind with 31 goals and 24 assists (55 points), shooting at 36%. The supporting cast isn’t just decoration either: @hugobrann72 has added 43 points, while @Veljenpoika69 and @Maltseviii have chipped in 35 and 33 points respectively. Across the board they’ve dominated possession, faceoffs, and hits, showing physicality to go along with finesse. Even their goaltending depth is a luxury: @The-Tankki235 is a perfect 6–0 in the playoffs with an 80% save percentage and 2.67 goals-against average, while @JonttuM12 has the same record with a 77.14% save percentage. They can rotate goalies without missing a beat. Fladie Faxes, on the other hand, have shown consistency, discipline, and the ability to adapt against strong opponents. They defeated Sunburst Howlers 3–1 in a competitive quarterfinal series, and followed it up with an impressive 3–0 sweep over HC Wild Hogs in the semifinals. Their attack relies on balance and grit rather than pure star power. @Lypsaaja6365 leads with 48 points in 13 games (19 goals, 29 assists), shooting at 30.6% and delivering 54 hits while winning nearly 58% of faceoffs—exactly the kind of two-way production their system demands. @Dan9105 is right behind with 36 points (16 goals, 20 assists), and handles the dirty work too, adding 44.4% faceoff success. Players like @SoldatUgglan, @Rizlan, and @Hescores round out the scoring with 30, 21, and 20 points respectively, each with 30+ hits and defensive awareness baked into their game. This depth makes Faxes hard to wear down—they don’t rely on one line, they roll all of them and trust everyone to play their structure. Perhaps the biggest equalizer is in net, where @E1vira123 has delivered a sensational 12–1 record, saving 86.92% of shots faced with a microscopic 1.08 goals-against average and 4 shutouts. His ability to keep them alive when pinned in and to erase mistakes is exactly why they’re here. Prediction: Personal Rainerit have steamrolled everyone so far. Their offense is overwhelming, their transition game is polished, and they have firepower from every line. But Fladie Faxes won’t be intimidated. They’re used to absorbing pressure, clogging lanes, finishing their hits, and leaning on an elite goalie to hold the line. If the game opens up, Rainerit will feast. But if Faxes can slow it down and frustrate them, this could be much tighter than expected. Still, the firepower and depth Rainerit possess should be too much over a series. 👉 Prediction: Personal Rainerit wins 3–1. Don't miss it: The entire final series will be broadcast tonight, June 29, with coverage starting at 19:45 CEST on twitch.tv/reactiomedia.

Final Four Locked In: Rainerit vs Clowns – Faxes vs Wild Hogs After a wild quarterfinals, four teams remain. Who’s heading to the final? We’re down to the final four. The semifinals are set — and the matchups are fire. Personal Rainerit continues to dominate. Clowns On Ice pulled off the upset of the tournament. Fladie Faxes handled a brutal four-game test. HC Wild Hogs are scoring at will. Every team left has proven they belong. But only two will reach the final. Here's what to expect:    Personal Rainerit (1) vs Clowns On Ice (11)  Personal Rainerit haven’t taken their foot off the gas since the group stage. They swept Tibro HC 3–0 in the quarterfinals, scoring 12 goals in game three and 24 goals total over the series. Their top scorer @jooheippa (ttskede) leads all playoff players with 57 points (33G, 24A) in 9 games, with @Elop-_-  adding 43 points, and @hhugobbrann with 35. The team’s passing, transition game, and puck control are elite. Clowns On Ice are the surprise of the postseason. After beating the high-flying Chlastpumpy 3–1, they look confident and hungry. Their run has been powered by @Pathen-21-  (26 pts), @PaddyD1412 (25 pts), and the goaltending tandem of @Christoph Kugler (kuglach) (89.76% SV, 1.63 GAA) and @Effyleptik  (96.43% SV in two appearances). Clowns will make this tough. They play smart, structured, disciplined hockey. But Rainerit’s depth, speed and overwhelming offense give them the edge. 👉 Prediction: Rainerit wins 3–1.    Fladie Faxes (3) vs HC Wild Hogs (5)  This is a clash of styles and firepower. Fladie Faxes had to battle through four intense games against Sunburst Howlers to advance. They led the series 2–0, lost one in OT, and edged the decider 2–1 in game four. Their strength is balance and structure. @Snoop Frog (Lypsaaja6365) has been a force with 33 pts in 10 games, backed up by @SoldatUgglan (23 pts), @Dan9105 (21 pts), and @Rizlan and @Hescores behind them. @Padde Kaic (Elvira123) has been rock solid in net: 89.19% SV%, 0.8 GAA, 4 shutouts. HC Wild Hogs, on the other hand, have bulldozed everything in their path. They scored 22 goals in 4 games vs Kasanovat, led by @zheka-ekb (44 pts), @Max14 (no_tactic_) (43 pts), and @NotChillyO (35 pts). Their top line is pure chaos. Goalie @Silkov777 has made key saves (81.04% SV%) when needed, but the Hogs rely on outscoring opponents — and so far, it’s working. Their aggressive offense overwhelms most opponents. But Fladie Faxes are built to contain chaos. Their defensive discipline, goaltending, and clutch finishing could be the difference in a tight series. 👉 Prediction: Fladie Faxes win 3–2.   All Eyes on the Ice: Semifinals Begin Wednesday It’s now down to execution. No more warm-ups, no more room for error. Personal Rainerit and Clowns On Ice clash in a battle of speed versus structure. Fladie Faxes and HC Wild Hogs go head-to-head in a matchup between defensive discipline and offensive fury. We’ve seen dominance, upsets, tight finishes, and blowouts. If the quarterfinals were any indication, the semifinals will be pure chaos — in the best way. 📆 Semifinals: Played between Wednesday, June 18 and Wednesday, June 25 🏆 Grand Final: Sunday, June 29 Get ready. Four teams. One trophy. Let the semifinals begin.