IHOF: Maassluis Merchantmen

[Kodos]

Originally Posted by cthomer5000

Go Maassluis, Go Rochester.

Clearly a Futility Bowl fan!

[MIJB#19]

Merchantmen Sign Star Kicker Fabrizio
In a wacky turn of events, the Maassluis Merchantmen today signed veteran kicker Paul Fabrizio for the playoffs. To make room on the roster, linebacker Albert Boggess was placed on injured reserve as his chances to return in time to play in IHOF Bowl VIII were very slim. Fabrizio and Cary Coles, the Merchantmen's long time kicker, are expected to have a training session together to determine who will be doing filed goal duties during the wild card game aganist the Syracuse Mohawks.

Paul Fabrizio isn't a nobody. Up to the last weekend of the regular season, Fabrizio had'nt missed an IHOF weekend aside from bye weeks and the playoffs. He wasn't very succesful with the Asheville Axemen, converting only 59 of 84 field goals. In 2007, Fabrizio moved to the Bordeaux Vineyards. After converting a then IHOF record 30 of 31 field goals in 2008, the North Plainfield Plague acquired Fabrizio. In 2010 he moved back to Bordeaux.

The 2011 season wasn't all that bad for Fabrizio. The 39-year old kicker converted 32 of 34 field goals in 15 games for the Vineyards. But following the failure to reach the playoffs, the Vineyards made a surprise salary cap move, releasing Fabrizio on the day of the last regular season game. With a completion percentage of 94.1, he ranked second for the regular season and was bound to be picked up by one of the playoff contenders.

Managements in the International House of Football were close to a gentlemen's agreement to leave the old Italian kicker unsigned. But the terms of the agreement failed to be unanimously signed. Merchantmen general manager M.IJ.B. said: "I though it was a good inititive from our side, but it failed. I kept by my word, mo agreement would mean a big offer to Fabrizio. We are happy he decided to join us. In the end, if you can choose you prefer having Fabrizio with you than against you."

Fabrizio eventually took the money to stay in Europe over moving overseas to play with the IHOF champions. Fabrizio didn't comment on his decission, but rumor has it that Fabrizio liked to stay in Europe. It also became clear that the Merchantmen made the more generous offer, despite having less need for him with Cary Coles having set a now IHOF record in field goal percentage, while the Syracuse Mohawks needed an insurance policy for injured Bill Vickers.

The Merchantmen management announced a kickers battle for the kicking duties in the wild card game against, ironically, the Syracuse Mohawks. Cary Coles wasn't willing to comment, but Al Betti,s the Merchantmen's kickoff specialist, said: "Fabrizio is one of the best in the business. When you get a chance to sign a player like him, you take it. But it does surprise me after Cary Coles' great season." It's expected to be a game day decission. Whomever loses the battle will watch the playoff game with the inactive status.

[Kodos]

Nice work. Screw the Mohawks!

[cthomer5000]

Originally Posted by Kodos

Nice work. Screw the Mohawks!

Yes, exactly what this guy said!

[MIJB#19]

For those waiting for an update, I haven't been able to reach the IHOF website for the past (at least) six hours. I did get a copy of the play-by-play of the game we played versus Syracuse. A nailbiter to say the least. Report coming once I have access to league files and such.

[Chubby]

Fat lot of good Fabrizio did ya

[MIJB#19]

Originally Posted by Chubby

Fat lot of good Fabrizio did ya

Worst spent $3M ever. (And still no access to the IHOF site )

[MIJB#19]

Merchantmen Come Short, Season Over
The Maassluis Merchantmen season ended in a heart breaking way. In their own Oranje Haven they looked ready to upset the defending champions, the Syracuse Mohawks. They came time short on their final drive to take the win. Mohawks advance, Merchantmen once again see a dream collaps.

When the two minute warning arrived, things looked bad, but not over. Sean Smalley was about to punt the ball away, despite his team trailing 17-12. Mohawks' rookie running back Floyd Cummings had scored two touchdown, including an impressive 46-yarder to help his team into the lead. The Merchantmen had fought back, but early on failed to defended a 5-0 lead.

The Mohawks decided to run the ball to take time off te clock, but the Merchantmen defense stood up. All three time outs were used during the impressive three-and-out. Wide receiver Jewell Simpson showed his best punt return of the season, running 18 yards up field to the Merchantmen 37-yard line. It set up a thrilling last minute of football.

Louie Flannery knew he had to step up. Before the game, the Syracuse Mohawks' management claimed that their Brent Peterman was the better quarterback of the two. Granted, career stats are in Peterman's favor, but Flannery hasn't been less than his equal in the previous head-to-head game. And this game, Flannery didn't do all that great, but looked as good as Peterman. It was his chance to prove his value.

And then there was Jack Romero. Syracuse' cornerback stepped up and defended two consecutive passes. Flannery failed to combine with his receivers Bryce Ewald and Jesse Vielma. Flannery went into survival mode and decided to stick with his safe throwing. In those times, tight end Jim Reiser always proves to be Flannery's favorite target.

First down! Reiser caught the pass and moved into Mohawks' territory. With 28 seconds left, Flannery hurried his man into lineing up and spiked the ball. Clock stops ticking. But 24 seconds and 47 yards to go. Things look hopeless. Flannery takes the time and decides to go for his deep threat receiver. Jewell Simpson is his man, but he's covered well and Byron Lombardo gets in front. Luckily no interception, but third down again, with 10 yards to go.

First down! Jim Reiser was the most obvious target, but he manages to catch the ball. With a great maneuvre, Reiser ran towards the sideline and quickly steps out of bounds after the catch. But time is coming short, 7 seconds left and 31 yards to go. Can they do it? Flannery calls his man. "This is it. This play will seperate the winners from losers."

Game over. Flannery sees Simpson in double coverage and goes safe. Reiser receives the ball, but with 21 yards to go, he has nowhere to go. He catch the ball, but two defenders are immediately all over him. That was that, the end of the 2011 season. See you back next year.

Head Coach Leroy Van Der Woude praised his team once again, but knew where it went wrong: "One play ended it for us, that one big run from (Floyd) Cummings. Losing to the champs isn't a crime, but you need to beat the champs to become the champs. This may have been our last chance." This may have been Van Der Woude's last game as the Merchantmen coach. He's out of contract next off-season.

Whether they like it or not, the potential leave of Van Der Woude could start a rebuilding move in Maassluis. Granted, the team is still young, but players like Charles Gomez and Ivan Jacques are into their thirties already. The arrival of Courtney Osgood may have been the start last-off season. Rookies J.J. Reilly and Eddie Cole already emerged into starting half of the season.

[MIJB#19]

General Manager Notes: 2011 Was Good, But Not Great
Meh...

So, one would say that after two seasons of .500 ball and below, you should be happy with an 11-5 record and a division title. Well, I'll be honest and say that crashing out in the wild card round was far from my hoped achievment. The Merchantmen defense grew into the league's best unit and set our offense up for easy wins week in week out. We failed. Sure, it was against the defending IHOF champs, but we were the better team and choked.

So, the Mohawks advanced, they knocked out the top seed Georgia Gridlock and returned to the AOC Championship game. Their surprising opponents were the Vicksburg Vipers, whom recorded their first playoff victory ever over the Rochester Lake Monsters. Our Futility Bowl rivals missed quarterback Jackie Williamson and were doomed from the start. The Vipers, lead by running back Ronnie Kemp, upset the Mohawks and advanced to IHOF Bowl VIII.

In IHOF Bowl VIII, the Vipers will meet the Frederick Red Menace. The 'commies' recorded their third consecutive NAC championship, tying the league record set by the North Plainfield Plague with AOC crowns from 2006 through 2008. The Red Menace overcame a superiour Ann Arbor Anachronism with the help of their quarterback. Zach Downing set a new playoffs record as he threw for 5 interceptions in a single game. One more than in 13 regular season games. It's going to be an interesting final, with two strong defenses. Boy, would the Merchantmen defense look good out there...

Anyway, our season is over and that makes for a good moment to review the entire 2011 roster. Player to player, I'll report on how they did and what you can expect from them in the upcoming season. Rest asured, we're currently expecting to start the 2012 off-season being about $4 million over the salary cap, but as the league office is negotiating for a new tv contract, we could luck into a healthier cap situation. Point being that every player on roster should be able to stay around. I'll start with the least important players and move down to the team's key players.

Kicker Paul Fabrizio joined us for the wild card game. He wasn't hired to do anything else than not kicking for our opponents. I've called it the worst $3 million dollars spent ever. It could be that indeed. In the upcoming off-season we expect him to retire. If he doesn't, we've got a shiny franchise tag for him and won't hesistate to trade him for a low draft pick to a team far away from being able to beat us.

Cornerback Tom Richmond was an emergency signing when Brian Spears picked up a season ending injury. Richmond could be a useful backup for us, but in the end he played in only one game and got too little playing time to really judge him. We could try to keep him through a free agency bid, but it will mostly depend on Brian Spears' return.

Running back Marquis Ong was acquired to be a locker room leader, but injury in pre-season made him an easy target for the injured reserve tag. Sadly it meant he couldn't join the team to mentor the young running backs like Scott Bagley and Quentin Hatchette, but he'll get plenty of opportunity next season. We don't expect Ong to flirt with retirment, but you never know with running backs.

Defensive tackle Shaun Shiroma was the fifth wheel on the wagon. We like Shaun's winner mentality and his skills, but we had four others capable of starting. He'll return next season and get another attempt to make our 53-men roster as one of eight defensive linemen. If only for the ability to play My Sharona one more time in Oranje Haven.

Guard Daniel Decastro was a late signing to the team. When we drafted J.J. Reilly, we felt that there was a need to get him a mentor. Decastro had the experience and playing skills to be a perfect candidate. In 2012, Decastro will likely be playing elsewhere. First of all, he's out of contract. Second, Decastro doesn't like his role anymore, but we won't forget to thank him for making Reilly into the player he is now.

Center Todd Serra is unhappy with his role. When we saw him unsigned, the scouting staff pressed for the abilityto get such a talented lineman. Serra was acquired mostly for 2012, to step in when Ned Cozart retires. Clearly, Serra isn't going to extend his contract past 2012 unless he knows for sure he's going to get more playing time. And that could be troublesome after the good season others on the line had.

Defensive end Aaron Sherrill is one of the favorite players of the management. In limited playing time he proved once again to be a worty guy in our defensive linemen rotation. Depending on what Erwin Baranowski will do, Sherrill is going to be a candidate once again for a roster spot in 2012.

Quarterback Harvey Nimmons pushed hard in pre-season and eventually won the 'hot prospect' roster spot over former second round pick Josh Webb. Sadly for him, Nimmons was rushed into play a couple of times and he completed only 3 of 12 passes, with 1 interception. That said, Nimmons guided the team in an impressive drive to beat the Bordeaux Vineyards and will more than likely get another chance in the 2012 off-season to win the 'hot prospect' role.

Kicker Al Bettis was once again a silent contributor. Over the years, Bettis became the IHOF's best kickoff specialist and he proved it once again in 2011. As always there will be a roster spot for him, but also as always, there will be some negotiations to make sure he doesn't get paid like an all downs starter.

Tight end Winston Van Pelt again proved to be a reliable player. In three seasons, he has been active in few passing plays, but when he was targets, he made the catch and played well. Van Pelt is still regarded as one of the best long snappers in the league and he's proven to be part of the reason why Cary Coles set a new consecutive converted field goals record. Talks for a contract extension will start as soon as the off-season kicks in.

Linebacker Carl Meier made a step back on the depth chart, but isn't complaining. Meier is an important figure in the locker room and has been very crucial in young Terrance White's improvement. When needed, Meier will step up and make plays for the team. Meier is end of contract after next season, so it seems likely he'll be presented a new two year contract somewhere in 2012.

Wide receiver Jesse Vielma had his least productive season to date. The arrival of competition for the #3 receiver role cost him a lot of playing time, and in his limited action, Vielma shined in dropping passes more than anything else. That said, it is believed that Vielma still has upside and as a much better option for depth than a green rookie.

Running back Scott Bagley once again made the team as our second kickoff returner. His cap figure was a little bit over the top, but that had a lot to do with the signing bonus of his rookie contract. His kickoff return average plummeted, meaning we're seriously going to reconsider his roster spot for 2012. Perhaps he'll be old and wise enough to grow into a mentor role next season?

Quarterback Justin McDavid once again did the team good for jersey sales. The idol of a lot of fans didn't see the field this season, sadly. McDavid is slowly growing into a role of a PR stunt, but still has great value as a mentor to young quarterbacks. As long as Justin's happy with his role, we're happy. Despite having played only 25 games for the team, he'll be a monument to the management and the fans.

Cornerback Winford Endicott once again showed how important he is to the team. With his experience and leadership, he brings the best out of the younger defensive backs and it paid back big time. The secondary has grown into being the Merchantmen's strongest unit. As Endicott will turn 35 in training camp, we're aware that 'Endi' might retire. If he doesn't, we'll be more than happy to have him stick around for another year.

Linebacker Terrance White has big shoes to fill, once he gets a starting role. Whether that will happen, time will tell, but so far he looks good to at least become a reliable rotation backup. White showed pass defense skills during the season, while he also showed the ability to make big plays. 2012 will be a bit of a season of truth, as we're expecting the older guys to continue to struggle and thus White going to start in more games. At least he can say he starting in games where we beat two of the league's strongest teams.

Safety Eddie Cole was rushed into a starting role early in the season. As was to be expected, Cole struggled and looked like the weakest link in the secondary. That said, a well timed interception against the Paris Musketeers kept the eyes on him. Cole is expected to see more playing time in 2012 as the full time rotation backup to both starting safeties.

Fullback Quentin Malicki had an unlucky season. Midway the season, Malicki suffered a broken fibula and was robbed from the opportunity to get playing time during starter Jamel Rosenberry's absence. In limited playing time, Malicki showed to be the wanted run blocking fullback, while he also showed his ability to make plays on passing downs. It's a matter of time for when 'Q' will become te full time starter at fullback.

Guard J.J. Reilly is the newest product in a long line of not so fancy draft picks. Reilly was caught as a failry developed rough diamond and was plugged into the starting lineup early in the season when injuries hit hard throughout the offensive line. With Reilly's good, but not great performance, he gained the respect of the other linemen and the fans. As a pass blocking expert, Reilly doesn't fit in the traditional Merchantmen guards profile, but he's already show progress in that area too.

Guard Butch White was the biggest victim of the apparent depth along the offensive line. Following a disastrous streak of games, White was benched and never recovered from a horrible season with a very low run blocking percentage and a scary high sacks allowed percentage. With White's paycheck, his future on the team is in serious jeopardy with the emergance of rookie J.J. Reilly.

Safety Emile William missed a couple of games early in the season. In previous season that wouldn't have been a problem, as William has become the main backup, but this season it was. The arrival of Eddie Cole didn't demote William to being a reserve player yet, but his playing time was lower than ever before in Maassluis. He's still a valuable member of the team, but could be a late roster cut casualty in 2012, in favor of a young new defensive back.

Quarterback Richard Bell was a relative cheap acquisition the past off-season. In a heated battle with a couple of youngers quarterbacks, Bell came out of pre-season as the new #2 quarterback. IN seven games of activity, Bell had mixed results, from an impressive game against Bordeaux to two shutouts. With a quarterback rating of 72, Bell didn't impress, but for now he looks like the best option as #2. But you never know what the 2012 off-season brings.

Defensive tackle Andy Weliczka gained a lot of respect. After four years as a starter, including the succes years 2007 and 2008, Weliczka dropped to a role on the inactive roster in 2011. Weliczka didn't stir trouble and took his role as it was. With injuries always hitting, Weliczka got to play in six games afterall, but his time as a starter looks over. Roster spots mathematically allowing, Weliczka will be held to his contract and stick around through the 2013 season. But it will depend on his willingness to tone down his salary cap figure.

Defensive tackle Andrew Rasmussen has been called a future starter long ago. Following his decent 2011 season as the rotation backup, Rasmussen is still regarded as the future starter in case Chalres Gomez or Frank Bernard calls it quits. Perhaps it will happen sooner and Rasmussen takes control in 2012?

Cornerback Myron Stevens again lived up to his role. As the fifth best cornerback on the team, Stevens has to step up when the team is in the worst state, when injuries have hit hard. Stevens managed to get playing time in all games this season and only once was really blown away by the opposing wide receivers. Stevens once again showed to be a worthy rotation backup to the starters.

Defensive end Erwin Baranowski has likely played his last game in Oranje Haven. With another decent performance as a rotation backup, Baranowski looked good last season. But time isn't Bara's friend, during the 2012 season he will turn 38. It is hoped that he brought enough information over to the younger guys to start mentoring the new fourth end of the unit in 2012. He'll be greatly missed if he retires.

Cornerback Brian Spears had a rollercoaster season. After an impressive performance in the first seven games, with 3 interceptions and 7 defended passes, Spears looked on pace to get a starting role. Then faith called, Spears suffered a torn rotator cuff and has missed the second half of the season, including the playoffs. The verdict isn't out yet, but once Spears returns, fear is there he won't be able to live up to his great 2011 form.

Tight end Arnold Ramirez is a quiet contributor. Over the years, he got plenty of playing time at tight end and even fullback. In 2011 injuries hit more than before and Ramirez had to step up more often. His numbers weren't impressive, but the management is confident that Ramirez is one of the best backup tigt ends in the league.

Running back Quentin Hatchette surprised a lot of people. In relief of Courtney Osgood, Hatchette got a lot of carriers, especially mid-season. With over 600 yards and an average of almost 4.6 yards per carry, Hatchette was a very good backup. With four fumbles during the season, Hatchette did show some weakness. In 2012 he's expected to provide even more depth after having spent more time on the team.

Offensive tackle Cornelius Rice put his future into danger. Following three seasons as a starter with 6 sacks allowed, Rice reached the same figure in just half a season. He will definately kept around for cohesion, but his time as the starting right tackle could be over. Unless Rice starts working on his weaknesses.

Offensive tackle Louis Bell had an up and down season. Bell emerged into a starting role, but didn't shine all the time. With 8 sacks allowed in 14 games, Bell was one of the reasons why the pass protection was one of the team's weaknesses. In return, Bell played a reliable role for the running game and will still be regarded as the replacement left tackle when Ivan Jacques is unavailable.

Guard Timothy Lacy had a strange season. In two different games, Lacy proved to be the team's best run blocker, leading the team with 6 key run blocks. But in the six remaining games he played, he added only six more, and saw the team go 1-5 in those games. Lacy suffered several injuries and turned out to be replaced easily. He'll continue to be seen as a top run blocker on the team, but could be a reserve until Ned Cozart retires.

Defensive end Wally Mattingly was the team's best pass rusher in 2011. With 33 broken passing plays, Mattingly was a dangerous player and was part of the reason why the team has one of the best pass defenses in the league. Depending on the arrival of a new defensive end in 2012, Mattingly is expected to continue to start. Interesting note is that Mattingly was one of only four players to start in every game of the season.

Wide receiver Devin Henson can't be happy about 2011. Following the success of others, Henson lost his title as the league's best kickoff return specialist, as he dropped to third in most career kickoff return touchdowns. That said, Henson was once again a top ten returner and didn't fumble in any of his return attepmts. His role as a wide receivers seems over though, so he's going to have to step it up again as return specialist next year.

Defensive tackle Frank Bernard has some trouble living up to the hype. Being Charlez Gomez' sidekick, people are expecting impressive statistics from a guy like Bernard, but he's always a tad weaker than Gomez. Still, his talent is undeniable and he did played his role in making our defense go from one of the better to one of the best.

Wide receiver Drew McConnell quickly grew into being the #3 receiver. With 339 yards receiving, he set a new career best. With his leadership, McConnell is an important figure in the locker room to maintain peace amongst the players. And with a season under his belt here, he should be able to improve his play next season.

Punter Sean Smalley once again did a decent job. sadly his figure of In20's dropped, but his overall average was on par with 2010. Highlight of the season was his screamer early in the playoff game, where he nailed the ball at the Mohawks one-yard line, to set up a safety.

Linebacker Albert Boggess finished the season on injured reserve. The latest news is that he is likely returning at full strenght next season, which is a good sign. In 2011, Boggess became a starter and showed his importance for the run defense. His pass defense skills could use some improvement, but with 2 interceptions, he was just one shy of being one of the team leaders.

Linebacker Mike Kershner returned to action following what seemed to be a career ending injury. Of course his hurt knee limited his ability to play from time to time, but with activity in 12 games, including 8 starts, he came back pretty strong. Kershner is going to be out of contract after 2012, so his future in Maassluis, especially given his age and knee problems, could be non-existent.

Safety Broderick Schultz missed the start of the season, but after his returned he managed to survive and post his best season in Maassluis in statistics. With 3 interceptions, 7 defended passes and only 13 catches allowed, Schultz even ended up in the higher regions of defensive backs in pass defense quotient.

Cornerback Sammie Kennedy was regarded as a problem child the past seasons. After three seasons of fear he wouldn't live up to his potential, he showed that he exceeded the early expectations. With 2 interceptions and 13 defended passes, Kennedy was one of the best cornerbacks in the entire league. He was tied for first in pass defense quotient amongst cornerbacks with at least 300 passing plays. Tied with teammate Tai Wayne.

Fullback Jamel Rosenberry had a disappointing 2011 campaign. Rosenberry got hurt a bit too often and eventually played in only 10 games. For starters, with 27 receptions, he was 50 below his 2010 production. Rosenberry is expected to stick around as the third down specialist, but it isn't a sure thing. being in the last year of his contract next season, it could very well be his last in Maassluis.

Kicker Cary Coles was awarded All IHOF first team honors by the FOF selection committee. With 32 out of 33 field goals converted, Coles set a new IHOF record in field goal percentage at 96.9. Sadly, his streak of consecutive kicks ended in the last game of the season, after he had scored on 46 straight three-pointers. Don't be shocked if Coles is going to ask for a raise in his salary figures this off-season.

Defensive end Omar Gougeon finished the season in the league's top ten sack machines. With 8.5 sacks in 14 games, Gougeon was a major threat for loss of yards to opposing offenses. Gougeon appears to be fully developed and really makes the best from his career. 8.5 sacks equalled his personal single-season best. A good sign after having missed most of last season.

Wide receiver Jewell Simpson will never live up to expectations. After he was acquired for a first round pick, Simpson had a lot of pressure and media attention to cope with. That aside, in an injury plagued season, missing a third of it, he managed to have his highest figures in catches (46) and touchdowns (6) ever. Maybe the deep threat receiver is finally getting warmed up?

Center Ned Cozart has been underused by us. He's arguably the best run blocker on team, but with our other center doing such a great job, Cozart started in only 9 games, and most of them at guard. He isn;t getting any younger either, while he's been disgruntled over lack of playing time. If he doesn't retire, we've got to make a serious decission about whether we're going to keep him, or not.

Center Brant Heinrich was the best offensive lineman of the team. Granted, in talent he isn't even top five, but in performance, he was the most reliable run blocker as well as the most reliable pass blocker. An amazing comeback, after missing most of the 2010 season in a backup role.

Linebacker Bernie Surry is more and more turning into a quiet performer. His pass defense statistics weren't as impressive as in the past, but in return he worked hard to become the team's top tackler. In the end he came 1 tackles short to beating Cody Cluff in that figure.

Tight end Jim Reiser once again led the team in catches. But in contrast to that figure, he posted his lowest yards per catch figure ever as a starter. His run blocking support is also still far from stellar, meaning there could be traditional contract negotiations to make Reiser drop a few spots in the fat contract list of the team. Afterall, we also has Arnold Ramirez, a guy who can start too.

Safety Lincoln Gilmore had a very good season. With 53 tackles, 3 interceptions and 7 defended passes, his numbers are not screaming all-world, but we know he is one of the best strong safeties in the league. Like with most of our players, his salary figure is slowly rising, so we've got to look out for how long we need to keep him. Don't get me wrong, Gilmore is arguably the best fit four our system, but we do have an Eddie Cole waiting in the wings now.

Wide receiver Bryce Ewald set two franchise records this season! First he set the new receiving touchdowns record at 7 and then he added enough yards to post the first season of over 800 yards in Maassluis, gaining 850 yards. All in all very amazing since we missed passing for 200 or more yards per game for the first time since the abmisal 177.7 yards in 2006.

Linebacker Cody Cluff saw an impressive streak ended. After seven seasons of at least 90 tackles, the former Defensive Rookie of the Year was held to 65 tackles this season. Cluff missed seven games (including the one where he got hurt very early on) due to injury. But Cluff came back strong as soon as he returned. Under his guidance, we went back from a good defense to arguably the best in the league.

Cornerback Tai Wayne became one of the best players in te league this season. With 24 defended passes and 1 interception, Wayne became the league's leading cornerback in pass defense quotient. With 51 tackles, he also was a great support to help out elsewhere on the field when he wasn't busy covering his receiver. He is never going to be a leader in interceptions, but to us he's a perfect shutdown cornerback.

Running back Courtney Osgood was, according to some, the breakout player of the year. Personally, I think it's a bit too much honor for a guy who never got a chance to start, but his stats don't lie. Far behind the two league's 2000-yard rushers, Osgood finished eleventh in rushing yards with 1,301 yars, coming only 5 short to tie the franchise record. His 4.6 yards per carry average was even more impressive, as was his total of seven 100-yard games, including 150 in the playoff game again the Mohawks.

Quarterback Louie Flannery turned out to be irreplacable. Under his guidance, the team won five games in a row, twice, while during his absence, the offense got shutout twice (including a game where he left early). With 11 interceptions, Flannery clearly improved his mistake-free game. But at the same time, Flannery had a career low in passing yards, missing the 2,500-yard mark for the first time.

Left tackle Ivan Jacques had another impressive season. With only 2 sacks allowed in 510 passing plays, he lived up to his normal pass protection standards. In the running game, he did his share of support as well, making 26 key run blocks. Minor injuries are more and more slowing Jacques down a bit, while the big day day is coming up soon. But Jacques was the most important player of the team, as the two games he missed were the two were we were shutout.

Defensive tackle Charles Gomez is mentioned last because he's still the best player of the team. His overall production has gone down a little bit as he looked a little bit slower and weaker than in the past seasons. Gomez even missed the FOF committee All-IHOF honors for the first time since 2004, ending the league's longest active streak of being awarded. Gomez didn't start in two games, and just like with oter top players, these were the two shutout losses. Just another sign of how important he really is.


With all that covered, one thing still has to be done. I have to announce the final standings of the 2011 Merchantmen PLayer of the Year, based on my own points for players. Courtney Osgood, Bernie Surry and Wally Mattingly picked up the last bits of points, resulting in the following standings:

1. Courtney Osgood 32 points
2. Tai Wayne 21 points
3. Louie Flannery 20 points
4. Cody Cluff 14 points
5. Bryce Ewald and Omar Gougeon 13 points
7. Jewell Simpson 10 points
8. Cary Coles and Wally Mattingly 9 points
10. Lincoln Gilmore, Charles Gomez and Bernie Surry 8 points
13. Sammie Kennedy 7 points
14. Ivan Jaqcues 6 points
15. Timothy Lacy 5 points
16. Richard Bell, Albert Boggess, Broderick Schultz and Terrance White 3 points
20. Jim Reiser, Cornelius Rice and Brian Spears 2 points
23. Erwin Baranowski, Frank Bernard, Brant Heinrich and J.J. Reilly 1 point

[MIJB#19]

2012 Retirement Day: Merchantmen Lose Baranowski
It's that time of the year again, general manager all around the IHOF kept close to their phones. Players in the IHOF get one day to fill the retirement papers and that day was yesterday. The Maassluis Merchantmen saw defensive end Erwin Baranowski retire. Around the league other former Merchantmen players. Who called it quits?

"Erwin Baranowski was a role model," said Merchantmen defensive coordinator Thomas Dotson, "A great example to the younger linemen." Baranowski played four season in Maassluis following three years with the Asheville Axemen and a lone season with the Outer Banks Ospreys. With the Ospreys he played in IHOF Bowl IV. At the time of his retirement, Bara' ranks 21st all-time in career sacks, with 49.5 quarterback tackles for a loss.

Defensive tackle Charles Gomez was sad to see Baranowski go: "Bara' was a great guy, always working hard and a fast pass rusher, even at his older age." Linebacker Bernie Surry said: "With Bara', I knew what to do. We had a good understanding of who would do what. Bara' would say things like: 'I will keep that tackle buys' and he'd always do what he said."

Baranowski played 61 games for the Merchantmen. In those game he recorded 20.5 sacks, 41 quarterback hurries, 12 blocked passes, 76 tackles and 28 assists. Baranowski was part of the European championship roster of 2008 and 2011. In week 16 of the 2010 season, Baranowski had his best game, as he recorded 3 sacks and 6 tackles to earn Defensive Player of the Week honors.

Baranowski wasn't the only player to play for the orange-white-and-blue who called it quits. Three players retired from roster of other teams, while ten men retired as a free agent.

Running back Joseph Schoen upset the Gothenburg Giants management by calling for an early retirement, at the age of 29. Schoen joined the Giants through trade last off-season, coming over from the Merchantmen. Schoen played 43 regular season games for the Merchantmen, in which he ran for 1,438 yards. Schoen scored 18 touchdowns in that period and provedc to be a decent punt return option. His longest stint with a team was at teh Georgia Gridlock. There nicknamed 'The Shoe' after the Dutch translation of "shoe" being "schoen", he posted two 1,000-yard seasons before he got traded. At the time of retirement, Schoen ranks 40th overall in yards from the line of scrimmage.

Quarterback Josh Webb was a big surprise retirement. The 28-year old play caller was drafted in 2010, 53rd overall. Webb was touted as the future #2 quarterback of the franchise, but he didn't work out in the early years. Webb lost the competition to Thad Pilkington for the #2 role in 2010, while in 2011 he lost to Richard Bell and Harvey Nimmons for the roster spots. Webb played in six games as the kick holder, while in one game he was thrown into the mix. With Webb at quarterback, the Merchantmen lost 20-0 to a winless Telluride Outlaws team, as he completed 5 of 13 passes for 35 yards and an interception.

Fullback Henry Poston also never lived up to the hype. Poston was the last survivor of the 2007 5th round quintet. Poston played 21 games in 2007 through 2009, while he spent 2010 on injured reserve. Eventually Poston lost the roster spot battle to Quentin Malicki, who appears to become the 2012 starter. Poston didn't find a new team after release from Maassluis.

Guard Alvin Causey didn't play much in Maassluis, but he's an interesting figure on the retired players list. Causey earned All-IHOF second team honors in his first season with the Asheville Axemen and decided to quit at the peak of his game. Before Asheville, Causey played five years for the run-oriented Bordeaux Vineyards. He moved to Bordeaux in a trade from Maassluis. Causey played only 2 games for the Merchantmen, whom acquired him in a trade from the Orlando Knights, when Causey was still recovering from injury. Causey eventually played 100 career games, with 202 key run blocks and only 21 sacks allowed.

Linebacker Josh Weisberg surprised the Springfield Isotopes management. Weisberg had been an important figure to the yonger linebackers on the team. Weisberg played four seasons in Maassluis, including the 2007 season, when he saw the most action. After that season, 'Wizz' devoted his time to mentoring Bernie Surry. Weisberg joined Maassluis through trade after two seasons with the San Luis Obispo Burn. He left the Merchantmen also in a trade, to play two years in Springfield. Weisberg played 92 regular season games, withhalf of them for Maassluis.

Other retiring players with Merchantmen history have a less impressive story to tell. Linebackers Nicholas (11 games in 2010) and Daniel Ruelas (10 games in 2007) played a marginal role ion Oranje Haven. Running backs Desmond Carlisle and Hunter Stelmack, fullback Robert Watkins, defensive ends Jose Carrington, Edward Wolflick and Brendan Henderson, and cornerback Danny Person never played a game for Maassluis.

[MIJB#19]

Merchantmen Replace Two Staff Members, Rehire Head Coach
The Maassluis Merchantmen have been busy the past days. Head Coach Leroy Van Der Woude was rehired at the same position for the next five seasons. In addition, defensive coordinator Thomas Dotson was released, in favor of the newly signed Omar Carden. And the team's lead scout was also replaced. Russell Jefferson was hired to replace Donald Preston.

Leroy Van Der Woude stays in Maassluis. The so-called success coach, with three division crowns in seven years was re-hired after becoming a 'free agent' this off-season. The Merchantmen had two-time IHOF winning options at their disposal in Matthew van Pelt and Grady Northern, but decided to stick with their own hero. So, the man with the Dutch name was offered an increased salary and signed another five-year contract.

Van Der Woude looked happy at the press conference. Van Der Woude said: "It's good to be back. After the loss to the Mohawks, I felt it was a bit of the end of an era. But then M.IJ.B. gave me a phone call and pointed out how much potential this team has to have another run or two. I think he's right. I'm in for avenging the numerous playoff losses to Northeast team."

While Van Der Woude was re-hired, the Merchantmen surprisingly replaced two other staff members, despite having a contract through the 2013 season. Lead Scout Donald Preston was the first to go. Preston spent three seasons with the Merchantmen and adviced in the aquisition of players like running back Courtney Osgood, wide receiver Jewell Simpson, defensive tackle Frank Bernard, defensive end Wally Mattingly, linebacker Albert Boggess and guard J.J. Reilly.

General Manager M.IJ.B. thanked Preston for his work, but pointed out that a man with knowledge in other areas was required. M.IJ.B. said: "Donald discovered J.J. Reilly and we thank him for it. When you need a new offensive line, he's the man to hire, he knows all about that. But right now we're in search for a young quarterback, a wide receiver and defensive linemen. Russell Jefferson has a better reputation in those areas."

Most shocking was the dismissal of Defensive Coordinator Thomas Dotson. Under Dotson's guidance, the Merchantmen defense grew from one of the best into arguably the best in the league. Manager M.IJ.B. said: "Thomas did a tremendous job and we won't forget that. After Bernie Hicks' success, we though Dotson was the right man to build on what was left behind. Now, we're looking once again at another younger guy to take over continue this defense to be the league's best."

The new face in the staff is Omar Carden. The 53-year old has eigh years of experience in the IHOF, in contrast to Dotson, who was new to the league. Carden started his career with the Asheville Axemen and was part of the 2004 success when they won their only Atlantic Coast division title. Carden was also part of the team that guided the Boston Rhinos to the playoffs for the first and only time. With a 13-3 record the 2009 Rhinos still rank as the best non-division champion ever. Now, the Merchantmen hope Carden will be part of the Merchantmen's first Conference championship, or even better, their first IHOF Bowl victory.

[MIJB#19]

2012 Off-Season Officially Started: Merchantmen Makes Two Trades
The Maassluis Merchantmen are back in business. Today they announced two trades to kickoff their off-season movement. First they traded their highest draft pick in the draft away for two picks slightly lower. The moved from 45th overall down to 63rd and 80th in trade with the Boulder Blizzard. Additionally, they traded kicker Paul Fabrizio to the Williamsburg Colonials. Fabrizio had been franchised and was swapt for the 143rd pick overall in the upcoming draft. What the rest of the off-season brings will remain a mystery for now...

[wade moore]

Nice pickup for the Merchantmen where they essentially get a 5th round pick for nothing, since they picked up Fabrizio in the post-season, tagged him, and traded him without ever using him or sacrificing any needed cap space.

[albionmoonlight]

Originally Posted by wade moore

Nice pickup for the Merchantmen where they essentially get a 5th round pick for nothing, since they picked up Fabrizio in the post-season, tagged him, and traded him without ever using him or sacrificing any needed cap space.

Agreed. And, MIJB took one for the league by taking Fabrizo off the UFA market in the first place.

[MIJB#19]

Thanks for the kind words. I hope this will start a new wave of updates in the coming weeks. I just realized that I've been slacking a bit lately in some areas, mostly in my league-wide rext. I failed to do an IHOF Bowl VIII write-up, haven't posted an All MIJB 53-men selection since the 2010 season and I'm not even planning to do a Fan's Choice Player Of The Year poll (well, the last edition collected less than 5 votes, so what's the point then? ). And what's up with the Gossip News not being all over the place to start rumors on the next Merchantmen trade acquisitions? We still have a coule of future 1st round picks to waste on career backup cornerbacks, interception prone quarterbacks, punt return fumbling wide receivers and overrated deep threat wide receivers.

If you're still reading and are missing something, just let me know what that is you miss.

[MIJB#19]

Merchantmen Sign Return Specialist Jimmy Stavrinos
The Maassluis Merchantmen today signed their first addition of 2012. Cornerback Jimmy Stavrinos sign a one-year contract. Stavrinos turned down a similar offer from the San Luis Obispo. Last season he played with the Syracuse Mohawks. In 13 games he was mainly used as a kick return specialist. Returning kicks is exactly what he's expected to do in Maassluis next season. Before his year in Syracuse, Stavrinos spent a year with the Ann Arbor Anachronism and started his career with two seasons at the Williamsburg Colonials. Stavrinos will instantly be a candidate to become the #1 punt returner.


Merchantmen Lose Biddings Wars
Despite the siging of cornerback Jimmy Stavrinos, the Merchantmen have had little luck in contracting free agents. Offensive tackle Alphonso Gant decided to leave Europe, following five seasons with the Gothenburg Giants, to play for the Springfield Isotopes. Another offensive tackle with European experience, Howard Bingham chose the Brooklyn Fightin' Bums over flying to the other side of the Altantic Ocean. The Merchantmen are reported to be in negotiations with defensive end Bennett Ruano and kickoff return specialist Randall Herrmann.

[MIJB#19]

Merchantmen Acquire Four-Time All-IHOF Receiver Alfredo Bass
The Maassluis Merchantmen today announced their big trade of the off-season. In what turned out to be fairly quick negotiations, the Merchantmen managed to acquire Alfredo Bass from the Minnesota Miners. Bass will boost a passing game that failed to surpass the 200 yards mark. The Merchantmen sacrifed their 20133 first round pick, but consequently traded up in the draft from 114th to 75th overall.

Alfredo Bass has been an elite wide receiver. With four 1,000-yard seasons he ties for third all-time. With 8,044 yards receiving Bass is second all-time and he leads the career standings with 607 receptions. Clearly a big addition for any team. Bass has been critized for his lack of big-play ability, but never gave up. This move bring his back to Europe, following his two-year stint in Gothenburg. Interesting enough, Bass missed both Minnesota's games versus Maassluis in 2008 and 2011.

General Manager M.IJ.B. was quick to show his happiness: "We're the masters of trade, we get what we want." Rumor has it that trade talks for Seymour Barber, second all-time in receptions, failed. M.IJ.B.: "Yes, Barber was our previous target, but Bass is a much bigger fish to get. Not to mention that we finally achieved the tradefecta, every franchise has made a trade with us now."


Merchantmen Swap Butch White For Paris Defensive End
After four seasons of struggle to return to 2007 form, Butch White was traded away by the Maassluis Merchantmen. His new team became the Paris Musketeers. Defensive end Lonnie Badalyan went the reverse route. The teams also swapped future draft picks to compensate the imbalance.

White played seven seasons in Maassluis before the trade. With mixed success. In his rookie season, White clearly battled with growing pains and posted far from impressive numbers. The next season his growth made a giant leap. In 2007 he followed it up with his best year to date, as he made 32 key run blocks and allowed only 3 sacks.

White's faith turned the following seasons. Struggling with injuries, White mever played more than 12 games and his production also dropped. Last season the ultimate relegation was completed as rookie J.J. Reilly was thrown into the lineup to replace White after three games. White did sign a new three-year deal recently, meaning the Merchantmen are going to have to live with a loss of $1 million.

Defensive end Lonnie Badalyan fills a void on the team. Following Erwin Baranowski's retirement, the Merchantmen had been looking for a new experienced defensive end. Negotiations with free agent Bennett Ruano were started, but today they were cancelled following the addition of Badalyan.

That said, Badalyan doesn't have the resume to show for it. In 74 games for the Paris Musketeers, he produced only 2.0 sacks. Butthe Merchantmen scouting staff convinced the management of Badalyan's pass rush technique. He's expected to play the rotational backup role for the upcoming seasons and possibly mentor a newly drafted end.

[MIJB#19]

Merchantmen Add Left Tackle Christhoper Perdomo To Team
The Maassluis Merchantmen bolstered their offensive line today. Left tackle Christopher Perdome was acquired from the San Luis Obispo Burn to fill the open spot after the departure of gaurd Butch White. Perdomo was acquired in a draft picks laden trade, which technically cost the team two third and one fifth round pick. Perdomo will become the insurance policy for current left tackle Ivan Jacques.

Christopher Perdomo has a good reputation around the IHOF. In 82 games, the 34-year old lineman gave up only 20 sacks, with a season high of 6. Head Coach Leroy Van Der Woude said: "A guy like that give the protection a quarterback wants and needs." Perdomo is also a skilled run blocker, but never really contributed to that element of the game. His career tally of 84 key run blocks tells the story.

The flip-side of Perdomo's resume is that in eight years in the league, he had only two seasons where he played 16 games. In two seasons his activity was limited to just 2 games. General Manager M.IJ.B. said: "People would say he's fragile and injury-prone, but that's the risk we're willing to take." In 2007 Perdomo was by some claimed to be the best left tackle in the game, but his performance hasn't really dropped over the years. He'll nicely fit into an overcrowded offensive line unit, with ten players who all could start for half of the other IHOF teams.

[Kodos]

No mock draft?

[MIJB#19]

Originally Posted by Kodos

No mock draft?

Good point.

[MIJB#19]

Merchantmen Management First Round Mock Draft 2012
Due to overwhelming demand, the Maassluis Merchantmen management has decided to publish their mock draft of the first round. This is just one of many ways how a draft can flow, this is in no way a guarantee of what will happen, nor a guideline for other franchises to find out what they should do and expect the team in front of them to do. With the disclaimers out of our way, here is how the Merchantmen management sees the first round unfold (all trade info is expected on draft day).

#	team	player	trade info
1	Bou	QB Gray, Billy
2	Roc	T Jamison, Pete	from Spr
3	Con	DT Gibbons, Duane
4	Ana	RB Colt, Robert
5	Got	RB Pearson, Jamal	from FtW
6	Ray	G Perez, Reuben
7	Spr	Dobbins, DeAngelo	from Roc
8	Tel	DT Wyatt, Donnie
9	FtW	CB Hayes, Cary	from Got
10	Spr	T Duran, Bennie	from Roc
11	Min	RB Addinson, Ryan
12	SAo	S McDaniel, Sherman
13	Mus	DE Kinney, Walter	from Bkn
14	Mia	DE Bridges, Wes
15	Bkn	OLB Westbrook, Alex	from Mus
16	Che	G Peters, Tyrone
17	Mus	T Guerrero, Patrick	from Ash
18	FtW	G Kido, Buddy	from Got
19	SLO	T Thornber, Roger
20	Orl	G Sanders, Arnold
21	AAr	S Doering, Jackie
22	Wil	DT Glenn, Marty
23	Bos	S Gohl, Travis	from Mus through Bkn
24	Ash	G Villarial, Marco	from Mus
25	Fbk	FB Hudson, Cary
26	Roc	S Huie, Martin
27	Bkn	DT LeFavor, Derrick	from Bos
28	OBx	S Syvrud, Terry
29	Bkn	TE James, Benny	from Bos
30	Ash	OLB Sellers, Joel	from Mus
31	Vic	DT Brann, Troy
32	Ray	ILB Hammer, Donnell

[Kodos]

Thanks, sir! I see with interest that we will trade up to 1.2. I can tell you that is quite unlikely.

[Warhammer]

I really hope the draft doesn't go down that way.

[MIJB#19]

Originally Posted by Kodos

Thanks, sir! I see with interest that we will trade up to 1.2. I can tell you that is quite unlikely.

That was specially designed for you to happen.

[MIJB#19]

Merchantmen Signed Veteran Safety Eubanks
The Maassluis Merchantmen signed a new player to the team. Free agent Joseph Eubanks signed a three-year contract with the Merchantmen. Eubanks last played with the Bordeaux Vineyards in the 2011 season. Before that, he played for the San Luis Obispo Burn (2004-2008) and the Orlando Knights (2009-2010). With 6 interceptions and 15 defended passes, his career stats aren't impressive, but the team primairily hired him for his experience to mentor young second year pro Eddie Cole in training camp and pre-season. If injuries hit hard, Eubanks could stick around for the regular season.

[MIJB#19]

Rosenberry Out, Rookies Winslett And Hansen In
Overshadowed by the publicity of the 2012 IHOF Draft, the trade of Jamel Rosenberry almost flew under the radar. The Maassluis Merchantmen agreed terms with the Anaheim Visigoths to sent the fullback back to the USA. In return the Merchantmen receive a 2013 third round pick. Right before that trade, the Merchantmen selected fullback Tracy Winslett as Rosenberry's replacement and picked defensive end Luther Hansen to boost an already overcrowded defensive line unit.

Rosenberry will be missed. In six seasons with the Merchantmen, 'Rosie' had his share in three division titles. In his first season in Maassluis, Rosenberry scored 8 touchdowns. It turned out to be his most succesful season. After three years of running for more than 5 yards per carry, his rushing performances dropped as he was more and more becoming a short yardage and passing plays specialist. That resulted in 77 receptions in 2010, two shy of the franchise record. He played 85 regular season games for the Merchantmen.

Tracy Winslett was the Merchantmen's first selection in the 2012 draft. Taken in the third round, 75th overall, Winslett immediately fills the void left behind by Rosenberry. Winslett was the second fastest fullback at the combine and posted the highest bench press repetitions figure. The management believes that Winslett is a reliable third down back.

Luther Hansen was a somewhat surprising selection. It didn't look like the team needed a new defensive end, but Hansen impressed at the combine with the fastest 40-yard time amongst defensive linemen. Hansen is expected to be able to jump into the pass rush rotation from the start. Hansen was taken 94th overall after the Merchantmen decided to trade down from 71st overall with the Vicksburg Vipers, also receiving a future 3rd round pick for the 143th pick overall in compensation.

[MIJB#19]

Draft 2012: QB Cote And LB Burns In, QB Nimmons Out
For the Maassluis Merchantmen the 2012 IHOF draft came to an end. With the selection of quarterback Kevin Cote, the Merchantmen made a surprise selection. Shortly after that selection, the Merchantmen traded second-year quarterback Harvey Nimmons to the Georgia Gridlock for rookie linebacker Lee Burns.

Nebraska graduate Kevin Cote is the new quarterback project in Maassluis. Cote had shown some impressive play. The Merchantmen were not likely to select a quarterback, with five passers on their roster, but Cote was convincing at the combine. With his impressive 6'6" 243 pounds body, he's more like a tight end. Cote is regarded as one of the most experienced quarterbacks in this year's class.

Linebacker Lee Burns was the fourth and last draft day acquisition. Burns was technically selected by the Georgia Gridlock, but the Gridlock and Merchantmen already had a trade on the table sending Burns from Georgia to Maassluis and quarterback Harvey Nimmons vice versa. A former Texas Longhorn, Burns had a pretty good combine. Burns posted the fastest agility test amongst linebackers. Additionally, Burns was regarded as one of the most experienced players at his position.

Quarterback Harvey Nimmons leaves Maassluis after only one season. Taken 141st overall in the 2011 draft, Nimmons joined a very crowded quarterback corps. But Nimmons held up in pre-season and beat out former second round pick Josh Webb for the fourth quarterback spot. In regular season play, Nimmons was thrown in the mix in three games. His highlight was a scoring drive against the Bodeaux Vineyards to guide the Merchantmen to a 17-10 victory. In Georgia, Nimmons is expected to become the new #3.

[MIJB#19]

Gossip News: Justin McDavid About To Leave Maassluis
Merchantmen fans, get ready for some big news. Your favorite player is about to leave for a different team. Rumor has it that the Merchantmen are in on-going negotiations with several teams to give McDavid a new home. Reasons being that McDavid's experience is widely recognised and his mentor ship hasn't flewn under the radar.

McDavid's agent Leland Hanks was quoted saying: "We've been getting some interest for Justin. The teams are askingfor secrecy, but I can asure you that at least four teams have been interested in Justin. I'm expecting a move soon, but for Justin's sake can't say much more."

It's widely known that the Merchantmen have failed to draft a young quarterback who ended up being the new #2. Last season's free agent signing Richard Bell looks like he secured that role for another season already. His main competition, Harvey Nimmons has already been traded, while the selected rookie Kevin Cote looks like the new #3. Cote could use some mentoring, but in the meanwhile Justin is reported to be unhappy with his role on the team.

Despite the attempts to get Justin a new home, it appears that the quarterback mentor market has been hot lately. On of the reported interested teams, the Boulder Blizzard acquired Gabe Macaluso from the Vicksburg Vipers to mentor top pick Billy Gray already. The San Luis Obispo Burn traded for Asheville Axemen's Dominic Lynch, who's a familiar face with the Merchantmen organization as Louie Flannery's mentor. Reportedly other teams interested included the Rochester Lake Monsters, Asheville Axemen (who already acquired Thad Pilkington), the Muscatine Mosquitoes and the Tucker Tigers.

The Lake Monsters look like the most logical new place, given their selection of Bubba Raymond tenth overall in the draft. Raymond became quickly the hottest quarterback in the IHOF after a formidable rookie combine. The Merchantmen management responded with the typical "no comment", but Rochester looks like a good fit. But then, the Lake Monsters will visit Maassluis in week 6 of the 2012 season to face-off in Futility Bowl VIII. These rivals have a history of acquired other's ex-players. Even wide receiver Jerry Beyer recently joined the Monsters.

As logical all seems, again, the Merchantmen management keeps telling us their old "no comment" reply. To Gossip News, it's a clear sign that something is happening. McDavid is a fan favorite and a jerseys selling machine, but the Merchantmen are hoping to go into 2012 with only three quarterbacks. The offensive and defensive lines have proven to be overcrowded, while the addition of wide receiver Alfredo Bass screams for cap space. Get ready for an earth shaking transaction.

[Kodos]

Imagine if we could get McDavid and Joe Boulware on the field at the same time. We could fumble the ball on every drive!

[MIJB#19]

Press Release: Merchantmen Call Lake Monsters Out
The Maassluis Merchantmen management will be pursuing legal action against the Rochester Lake Monsters. Following their unethical approach on Justin McDavid to play for the Lake Monsters, Rochester caused a problem in the Merchantmen locker room. McDavid has called in sick and has been unavailable for autograph signing sessions. The Merchantmen claim it's all part of a scam to get some locker room trouble in Maassluis, giving the Lake Monsters a free pass to win Futility Bowl VIII.

Lawyer Moe Money will be handling the complaints for the Merchantmen. Money points out that: "With the way Rochester promissed McDavid to get a big role in Rochester, back in his homeland, he was all excited. When he wasn't informed of the trade with Orlando to give Paul Hamrick the role assigned, McDavid has been depressed for a couple of days and hasn't spoken a word for weeks. The Merchantmen psycho therapist S. H. Rink hasn't been able to cure McDavid yet."

The Merchantmen management has threatened to release every player with Rochester roots. General Manager M.IJ.B. said: "We're distinguishing from these kind of actions. It's on for Futility Bowl VIII. They'll be dressing up in a public toilet, the visitors' locker room will be locked down. That'll show them for approaching McDavid's agent behind our backs and making him all excited over nothing."

These actions follow on the facts being revealed by Gossip News. Under normal circumstances the Merchantmen management doesn't take Gossip News serious, but these assumptions were all too close to reality. What actions the Merchantmen will take will follow in a couple of days after lawyer Money has dug into all the details. You haven't read the last word of this situation.

[Kodos]

We may have "dropped the ball" here.

[cthomer5000]

Originally Posted by MIJB#19

General Manager M.IJ.B. said: "We're distinguishing from these kind of actions. It's on for Futility Bowl VIII. They'll be dressing up in a public toilet, the visitors' locker room will be locked down. That'll show them for approaching McDavid's agent behind our backs and making him all excited over nothing."

I can just imagine the Lake Monsters having to get dressed in a pub bathroom across the street from Oranje Haven.

[Kodos]

And why the hell are our games ALWAYS in Maassluis???????????? I blame Buzzbee. Or possibly evil scheduling gnomes.

[MIJB#19]

Originally Posted by Kodos

And why the hell are our games ALWAYS in Maassluis???????????? I blame Buzzbee. Or possibly evil scheduling gnomes.

We bribed the commish back in the spring of 2006?

[MIJB#19]

Merchantmen Welcome Three Rookies To Mini-Camps
The Maassluis Merchantmen mini camps saw three new faces join today. Defensive end Luther Hansen, quarterback Kevin Cote and linebacker Lee Burns reported for their first drills in orange, white and blue. It followed after all tree signed their rookie contracts. Hansen signed a four-year deal, while Cote and Burns put their autographs under three-year contracts. In cotrast, fullback Tracy Winslett turned down a lucrative four-year contract.

Kevin Cote looked thrilled in his new shiny uniform. The Nebraska graduate looked stellar in in his first few drills. Going by his style, people quickly saw a resemblance to the short passing playing style of Justin McDavid. Cote said: "It's a new chapter in my life, a step closer to playing professional football. Coach told me I should focus on the learning proces, talk a lot with McDavid. Right now I just hope to make the regular season roster." And those chances look good, the plans are to make Cote the #3 quarterback.

Defensive end Luther Hansen has much more competition. With newly acquired Lonnie Badalyan and Aaron Sherrill, the competition for the third and fourth end roles behind Omar Gougeon and Ivan Mattingly is strong. The expectations are nevertheless high, Hansen was drafted higher the three hoem-grown ends who played the past seasons in Maassluis. Hansen even received a number in the 70's in 73, just like starters Mattingly and Gougeon.

Lee Burns made a strong impression in his first drills. Burns isn't a text book example linebacker for the Merchantmen. Burns' pass defense skills seems to be lacking a bit, but in return he's a showing pass rush ability. Burns could be put into a defensive end's role, hence his jersey number (91). In addition, Burns quickly showed that he's got the run stuffing skills the Merchantmen love to see with linebackers. Burns has a bright future in Maassluis, providing he makes the 53-men roster.

Whether talks with fullback Tracy Winslett will resume, remains to be seen. Winslett turned down a four-year contract, as his agent told the team they want only a three-year deal for him. Brandon Mersky is new as a player agent with the Merchantmen. Early signals are that the management is likely going to sign a free agent fullback to fill the roster for now, instead of talking about a three-year deal. Tracy's 19 months older brother Ike has been linked with the Merchantmen, as well as a dozen other young free agents to join the team for training camp.

[MIJB#19]

Merchantmen Sign Gene Dewit And Three Rookie Free Agents
The Maassluis Merchantmen today signed four new players. All four signed a one-year contract, meaning they get a shot to win a pre-season roster spot if they can impress during training camp. Safety Gene Dewit is the most familiar name. Dewit spent the 2009 and 2011 camps in Maassluis, making him the first player to sign with the Merchantmen for the third time. The three others are all rookies. J.T. Linquist is a young, promising placekicker. Hugh McNeil is a punter from Kansas. Jimmy Arbuckle is a third down back. Especially Arbuckle might stand a chance to make the final 53-men roster, if fullback Tracy Winslett decides to hold out throughout the season.

[MIJB#19]

Press Release: Merchantmen Fire Staff Members
The Maassluis Merchantmen management today fired pharmaceutical manager Q. U. Ack and psycho therapist S. H. Rink. These events follow on the Justin McDavid saga. McDavid had been diagnosed depressed and hadn't spoken for a few weeks. Internal investigation from the Merchantmen organization lead to this decission.

Pharmaceutical manager Q. U. Ack has been fired for giving a wrong description. Justin McDavid had complained about a bad cold and apparently Ack subscribed the wrong medicine. It resulted in things aggravating, consecuentaly McDavid's throat got all sore, which lead to the temporary inability to speak. McDavid's ability to speak is back.

Psycho therapist S. H. Rink was also fired following a wrong diagnosis. Rink had examined McDavid during the period of inability to speak and had diagnoses it as a psychosomatic effect to failed trade negotiations resulting in depression. It turned out that McDavid's down period was caused by a wrong description of medicine.

The Merchantmen organization will offer their apologies to the Rochester Lake Monsters organization for the earlier accusations. The Lake Monsters will be very welcome in Oranje Haven for Futility Bowl VIII. The Merchantmen regret the bounced trade negotiations for Justin McDavid, but the management sees him as indispensable to the club.

[MIJB#19]

Merchantmen Sign Three Youngsters For Training Camp
The Maassluis Merchantmen are quickly adding new bodies to their roster. Two days before training camp they added defensive end Mitchell Boyd, cornerback Bubba Lesky and fullback Ike Winslett to the team. Boyd is an experienced pass rusher, for a rookie. Lesky has been said to be a talented zone defender. Ike Winslett is a third down runner and run blocker. Ike Winslett is also the older brother of drafted Tracy Winslett, who is still negotiating terms for a contract with the Merchantmen management.

[MIJB#19]

Tracy Winslett And New Linebacker Report For Camp
The Maassluis Merchantmen agreed terms with fullback Tracy Winslett on a four-year contract. The contract was signed just in time to have Winslett report for training camp. The recent siging of Ike Winslett, Tracy's brother was one of te reasons to sign the contract, Tracy said: "Being able to play football with my brother is a dream come true, even if it is for just a month." Additionally, the Merchantmen signed linebacker Michael Penton. The veteran played in every previous IHOF season with three different teams: the Astoria Heroes (2004), the Ann Arbor Anachronism (2005-2008) and the Brooklyn Fightin' Bums (2009-2011). Penton was also part of the 2005 IHOF championship roster.

[MIJB#19]

Aaron Sherrill Biggest Merchantmen Training Camp Casualty
Four days before the first pre-season game, the Maassluis Merchantmen announced their 60-men roster. Eight players will be released, although not officially until tomorrow night. Seven players were recent sigings, only defensive end Aaron Sherrill spent longer than the past training camp in Maassluis. Safety Gene Dewit was released for the third time in four seasons. Fullback Ike Winslett, kicker J.T. Linquist, cornerback Bubba Lesky, running back Jimmy Arbuckle, defensive end Mitchell Boyd and punter High McNeil were told to get packing and offered a plane ticket for their flight back to the USA.

Defensive end Aaron Sherrill was the most prominent released player. Sherrill had been in Maassluis the past five seasons. Drafted in the sixth round of the 2007 draft, the odds were slim Sherrill would see a lot of playing time. But when Omar Gougeon got injured, Sherrill stepped in and started 15 games. The next few seasons, Sherrill fought for playing time, and lost. In 2008 he played in 15 games, in 2010 he returned with five starts after sitting 2009 out on injured reserve. Last season Sherrill was used in only two games. Sherrill leaves Maassluis after 43 regular season games in which he made 12.5 sacks, blocked 9 passes and recorded 20 quarterback hurries.

[MIJB#19]

Merchantmen Training Camp Report
Training camp is over. The Maassluis Merchantmen are preparing for their first pre-season game. Who impressed in camp, who's making a push for promotion on the depth chart? Here's a position by position breakdown.

Quarterbacks
Louie Flannery was a class of his own again. Flannery didn't look as good as in past training camps, but is still the best passer on the team. Behind him, Richard Bell made good progress. Bell has clinched the #2 role. Justin McDavid will stick around for PR reasons. Kevin Cote will get his chance in pre-season. Cote's regular season roster spot isn't safe yet.

Running Backs & Fullbacks
Running back Courtney Osgood looks ready to run wild for another season. Behind him, Quentin Hatchette made some progress, but his pre-season performance might help him get more carries. Marquis Ong will be the #3 at best, while Scott Bagley didn't look good and will have to step it up to even make the roster at the #2 kickoff returner. Fullback Quentin Malicki made good progress and looks ready to start. Rookie Tracy Winslett didn't make a strong impression, but is likely to play the third down role afterall. Free agent signings Ike Winslett and Jimmy Arbuckle have been released.

Tight Ends
After years of 50+ receptions, Jim Reiser might be playing a slightly smaller role. Reiser lost some of his power and speed, others will play more. Arnold Ramirez will be playing more downs, while Winston Van Pelt will stick around as #3 and long snapper.

Wide Receivers
With the addition of Alfredo Bass, this unit looks stronger than before. Bass is still at his peak and hopes to be the needed star receiver. Bryce Ewald and Jewell Simpson will rotate until it's clear who makes the better #2. Drew McConnell has #4 role written all over, while Devin Henson as return specialists is going to hang around too. Jesse Vielma has one more pre-season to extend his stay in Maassluis

Centers & Guards
Brant Heinrich emerged as one of the league's most efficient centers last season. Ned Cozart is probably better and will push Heinrich for the starting role, depending on how the guards will play. Timothy Lacy looks better than ever before, while J.J. Reilly looks like a guy who can still improve. In relief, Todd Serra isn't happy, but looks like a guy who can play ball. Daniel Decastro hopes makes a good enough 10th lineman, providing he proves to be 53-men worthy in pre-season. The management is still optiong to introduce a rotation system on the line.

Offensive Tackles
"Indestructable" Ivan Jacques turned out to be a MVP type of player last season. But father time visited and Jacques doesn't look like the best left tackle in the IHOF anymore. Arrived veteran Chris Perdomo showed to be an excellent backup to Jacques in training camp. Louis Bell and Cornelius Rice, who fought it out for the right tackle duties last season, will still see plenty of playing time in case of injuries. The management is still optiong to introduce a rotation system on the line.

Defensive Ends
Omar Gougeon is emerging as the biggest pass rush threat on the team. Behind him, Ivan Mattingly and newcomer Lonnie Badalyan are trying to hold off the speedy rookie Luther Hansen. Hansen has great potential and if he makes good progress in pre-season, he could become the rotation starter. Aaron Sherrill was released after many years of service, being surpassed by Hansen. Rookie Mitchell Boyd didn't look good enough to beat out the strong cometition on the defensive line, but should be picked up by a pass rusher seeking team.

Defensive Tackles
Charles Gomez isn't the monster tackle and sack machine he used to be. For the second training camp in a row he had to tone down his involvement as time as catching up. Frank Bernard had the same problem, meaning he's officially on the trade block for a great offer. Andrew Rasmussen emerged as a serious candidate to start next to Gomez. Pre-season will be Rasm's to prove it. Otherwise, the proven combo of Andy Weliczka and Shaun Shiroma will be revived.

Linebackers
Another unit where the team has strong depth. Cody Cluff has proven to be an elite middle linebacker. Behind him, Terrence White is making progress, but not fast enough to make Cluff worry. Carl Meier will stick around as a locker room leader. Bernie Surry is a sure thing at strong linebacker, meaning injury prone Mike Kershner and Albert Boggess will fight it out for the weak-side position. That is if Lee Burns doesn't live up to the hype in pre-season, to take the starting role. Michael Penton will leave the team after pre-season.

Cornerbacks
It's a strong competition as always. Tai Wayne was a superstar last season and will be regarded as the best defensive back in Maassluis. On the other end of the field, Sammie Kennedy will mimic Wayne's production, just like he did last season. Brian Spears came back from injury, but lost some of his speed. It gives room for Myron Stevens and Winford Endicott to think about playing time. Jimmy Stavrinos will make he roster as return specialist. Rookie Bubba Lesky disappointed in training camp and lost the battle for the roster spots.

Safeties
Lincoln Gilmore is a crucial player to the team and made progress once again. His free safety buddy will be Broderick Schultz again. In relief, Eddie Cole will be playing the backup role to both, while Emile William will stick around to jump in when injuries hit hard. Joseph Eubanks has been brought along to mentor Cole and is likely to leave after pre-season. Gene Dewit didn't survive into pre-season for the third time in four seasons.

Special Teamers
Kicker Cary Coles made a case for being an elite placekicker last season. Coles will receive faith to do it again. Al Bettis has grown into being the IHOF's best kickoff kicker. Sean Smalley is still the best option the team can afford at punter. Rookie Hugh McNeil didn't impress at all and has been released. Rookie J.T. Linquist showed great promise as a field goal kicker, with very good accurace. But there's simply no roster spot for him in Maassluis this season.

[MIJB#19]

Linebacker Carl Meier Misses 2012 Season
The Maassluis Merchantmen today places linebacker Carl Meier on injured reserve. This action followed after Meier suffered a severe hamstring pull in an exhibition game at the Miami Sharks. Meier was diagnosed to miss the majority of the regular season and team management decided to end his season early. This injury increased rookie Lee Burns' chances to make the final 53-men roster. In the meantime, third year pro linebacker B.J. Monroe was signed to fill out the roster. Monroe had been released by the Rochester Lake Monsters shortly before training camp.

[MIJB#19]

14 Nominated Merchantmen Players Await Roster Cut Day
The Maassluis Merchantmen players have a tough couple of hours coming up. Roster cut day is here and by noon today, the Merchantmen have to officially announce their seven releases. Seven releases, as the Merchantmen roster is injury free, aside from injured reserve linebacker Carl Meier. The Merchantmen management toned the list of candidates down to fourteen names this morning and told the affected players to report to the office this morning. These players are quarterback Kevin Cote, running backs Marquis Ong, Scott Bagley and Tracy Winslett, wide receivers Jesse Vielma and Drew McConnell, center Todd Serra, guard Daniel Decastro, defensive tackle Shaun Shiroma, linebacker Lee Burns and defensive backs Winford Endicott, Jimmy Stavrinos, Myron Stevens and Joseph Eubanks.

[MIJB#19]

Merchantmen Release Shaun Shiroma And Six Others
The Maassluis Merchantmen made their roster cuts to go down to 53 players official. Quarterback Kevin Cote, running back Scott Bagley, wide receiver Jesse Vielma, defensive tackle Shaun Shiroma, linebackers B.J. Monroe and Michael Penton, and safety Joseph Eubanks were all released. Especially Shiroma, Bagley, Vielma and Cote were tough decissions, being regarded as part of the future.

Shaun Shiroma always had trouble living up to expectations. Back in the second round of the 2007 draft, the Merchantmen picked him to be the side kick to Charles Gomez. Shiroma ended up playing a passing downs role, splitting time with Al Weliczka. As a rookie, Shiroma earned player of the game honors in the Merchantmen's only playoff victory in team history. Last season Shiroma sat the season out on injured reserve. In the previous four seasons, Shiroma played 45 regular season games, in which he made 6.5 sacks, 52 tackles and 28 assists.

Running back Scott Bagley was another tough release. Bagley was once regarded as the future feature back, but never lived up to the expectations. Still, the 2008 second round pick kept working hard to make the roster in each of the past four seasons as a kickoff return specialist. In his first four seasons he topped the 24.0 yards per kickoff return mark, but following a 20.8 season he dropped to a 23.8 career figure. Bagley scored one touchdown in 62 regular season games: An 18-yard run against the Brooklyn Fightin' Bums in 2009.

Wide receiver Jesse Vielma also failed to make the final 53 names. The arrival of Alfredo Bass and Jewell Simpson in recent off-seasons made him expendable. Vielma was drafted in the third round of the 2009 draft as a running back. Vielma quickly addapted to his new position as flanker. As a rookie, Vielma started 12 games. After his first two seasons, with 15.0 yards per carry, the 2011 season was a bit of a down season. Vielma played 37 regular season games, making 61 receptions for 847 yards and 4 touchdowns.

Quarterback Kevin Cote was a minor surprise as a release. The Merchantmen drafted Cote in the fifth round of the recent amateur draft. Cote played on all offensive snaps in pre-season. Cote completed 56 of 107 passes for 521 yards, with 2 touchdowns and 7 interceptions. His performance wasn't good enough to win the project quarterback role the Merchantmen had been using the past few seasons. It also means Justin McDavid will move back up to third quarterback for the 2012 season.

Linebacker Michael Penton and safety Joseph Eubanks were released after spending training camp and pre-season in Maassluis. Penton made 13 tackles and 7 assists. Eubanks posted 2 interceptions, 16 tackles and 4 assists. Both were used to tutor younger future starting projects. But barring injuries, neither was likely to make the final roster. Which also counts for linebacker B.J. Monroe, who was only signed after Carl Meier suffered a season-ending injury in the second pre-season game.

There were several other notable releases around the league. Former Merchantmen quarterback Mel Atkins was released by the San Luis Obispo Burn, as Atkins failed to win a backup role behind rookie John Vanderpool and Dennis Cressio the cousin of the Burn's general manager. Safety Martin Huie was drafted in the first round of the recent amateur draft, but Huie failed to impress the Boulder Blizzard coaches and was released. The Miami Sharks released quarterback Lionel Helfrich, despite him being a part-time starter for the Sharks in each of the past two seasons.

[MIJB#19]

Merchantmen Prepare For First Game Of 2012
The smoke is up, the starting lineup has been announced. The Maassluis Merchantmen are an hour away from their first regular season game of the 2012 season. First opponents are the Bordeaux Vineyards in Oranje Haven. With a 5-3 record in Maassluis, the Vineyards are no guaranteed win, at all. Even worse, the Bordeaux roster looks capable of upsetting the defending European champions. But the old power house of the continent is on the decline, with only one division title in five seasons. Heck, it even was one with an 8-8 record. In return, Maassluis won three out of the last five. The old versus the new power house? Watch and find out!

Merchantmen Depth Chart vs Bordeaux

	Offense
pos	starter	backup
WR1	87 Ewald	85 Simpson
TE	89 Ramirez	86 Reiser
LT	63 Jacques	68 Perdomo
LG	76 Reilly	55 Cozart
C	54 Heinrich	55 Cozart
RG	65 Lacy	55 Cozart
RT	71 Rice	68 Perdomo
WR2	81 Bass	88 McConnell
RB	30 Osgood	21 Hatchette
FB	29 Malicki	48 Winslett
QB	14 Flannery	10 R.Bell
	Defense
pos	starter	backup
LDE	73 Hansen	70 Mattingly
LDT	78 Gomez	98 Rasmussen
RDT	72 Bernard	98 Rasmussen
RDE	74 Gougeon	83 Badalyan
SLB	56 Surry	95 Kershner
MLB	50 Cluff	99 White
WLB	95 Kershner	97 Boggess
LCB	47 Wayne	24 Spears
SS	46 Gilmore	35 Cole
FS	36 Schultz	35 Cole
RCB	38 Kennedy	32 Stevens
	Special Teams
pos	starter	backup
PK	18 Coles	8 Bettis
KOK	8 Bettis	18 Coles
P	11 Smalley	8 Bettis
H	14 Flannery	11 Smalley
LS	82 Van Pelt	89 Ramirez
KR	83 Henson	45 Stavrinos
PR	45 Stavrinos	85 Simpson
ST	50 Cluff	86 Reiser

Schedule of home games:
Week 1: Bordeaux Vineyards
Week 3: Outer Banks Ospreys
Week 6: Rochester Lake Monsters (Futility Bowl VIII)
Week 7: Boston Rhinos
Week 8: Paris Musketeers
Week 12: Asheville Axemen
Week 14: Miami Sharks
Week 17: Gothenburg Giants

[MIJB#19]

Alfredo Bass Guides Merchantmen To Fantastic Start
The Maassluis Merchantmen kicked the 2012 off with an impressive victory. Hosting the Bordeaux Vineyards, the Merchantmen posted alomst 500 yards of offense in the 34-21 victory. Wide receiver Alfredo Bass was the star, smashing all the franchise receiving records in his first game. The defense held the two 1,000-yard backs from Bordeaux to a total loss of 5 yards. The bad news came from linebacker 'Mickey' Kersher and quarterback Louie Flannery, who picked up injuries.

The Merchantmen fans have a new hero. In his first game in orange-white-and-blue, Alfredo Bass made the high expecatations reality. And what a performance it was. With 12 receptions for 211 yards and 3 touchdowns, Bass smashed all the Merchantmen single-game receiving records. And simultaneously broke his own personal records. Great accolades to boost his chances to make it into the IHOF Hall Of Fame in a couple of years.

Quarterback Louie Flannery was happy with his new receiver: "Bryce (Ewald) and (Jewell) Simpson are good guys, but Bass is a phenomenon. It's great to have a guy like that on the team. He's a playmaker, always open. This is going to be a great season." Thanks to his new target, Flannery took the league lead with 377 yards passing and 4 touchdowns, but also added 3 interceptions on the way. Flannery said: "Stuff happens. As they say in Bordeaux: a win is a win is a win."

Despite his good play, Flannery didn't come out of the game looking all so happy. Head Coach Leroy Van Der Woude in the post-game press conference said: "Louie (Flannery) twisted his knee in the fourth quarter. It was a freak play as it was on a running play. On the hand off to Courtney Osgood, he felt a pain in his knee. On the next play he was clearly still recovered, hence getting sacked. Whether he will play next week remains to be seen."

But for now, the Merchantmen can be happy. With 498 total yards on offense, the team smashed a franchise record, that was set in the 2007 season. Cornerback Tai Wayne watched the offense play and said: "This unit is getting places this year. We're so deep everywhere now. Quentin Hatchette runs for almost 100 yards when Osgood has a bad day, we've got eight or nine starting calibre linemen. Even Richard Bell looked ready to step in when Flannery is hurt. I'm looking forward to the rest of the season."

Defensive Coordinator Omar Carden was another praised man. Carden was hired the past off-season to improve an already strong defense. The Merchantmen defense looked very good though, forcing Bordeaux to pass all game long. And when they ran, things didn't go well. The two 1,000-yard backs from last season, 'Bam Bam' Jamerson and Casey Mercer had only 8 carries for a total loss of 5 yards. But here was bad news too, the defense allowed a 70-yard fumble return and a 50-yard pass resulting in touchdowns. Carden: "We still have a lot to work on. In this game, you have to keep improving, because the opponents will get better."

Next up is a road game at the Outer Banks Ospreys. The Merchantmen are in for a rough game there. In pre-season the Ospreys posted a 27-0 win over the Merchantmen. And in week one, the Ospreys kept the Springfield Isotopes scoreless through the first three quarters, posting an easy 20-7 win. But their pass defense showed a weakness, allowing 25 of 35 passes completed for 322 yards. Maybe Alfredo Bass can bosst his already impressive resume next week.

[MIJB#19]

Merchantmen Hold Ospreys Off To Remain Unbeaten
The Maassluis Merchantmen notched another victory. In a battle between two teams with strong defenses, the Merchantmen stood their ground. The home playing Outer Banks Ospreys were beaten 13-10. Alfredo Bass once again received the accolades to make it possible. His buddy wide receiver Bryce Ewald went out for the season with a severe knee injury.

The Merchantmen sail on. The Outer Banks were dangerous, but the masters of trading survived well. Louie Flannery and crew loated the coast and returned home with the second win of the season. Flannery didn't even complete the game, being replaced shortly after half time, having completed 11 of 13 passes for 114 yards. Richard Bell kept the ship straight and secured the victory.

Head Coach Leroy Van Der Woude looked happy. Van Der Woude said: "Another great team performance. We really feared for this team, but everybody worked hard to get the win. The running backs kept rumbling, the defense kept making key plays and Alfredo Bass was in his own class again."

A good win against a strong team, but there is still a lot of room for improvement. The Merchantmen defense allowed four red zone visits. Granted, they allowed only 10 points, but it helped that Rex Beckwith missed a 34-yard filed goal, while Rufus Preston hurried one of his passes into an interception from 15 yards out on a second and first situation.

Cornerback Tai Wayne had been figthing it out with Toby Williams a lot and wasn't happy. Wayne said: "I had a rough night. It happens, but, you know, I don't want to let the team down. Gomez apparently twisted his knee or something, we might be missing him at Georgia next week."

Charles Gomez was spotted with a bag of ice on the sidelines when the offense was on the field. Gomez said: "I'll live. We've got plenty of guys who can do the job. Andy (Welickza) and Andrew (Rasmussen) have proven they can play. I'm more worried about Bryce Ewald's knee."

Bryce Ewald looks done for the season. As the Merchantmen were leading 7-3, he was on the field with the field goal unit. Tight end Jim Reiser saw it happen: "Bryce was making his block and all of a sudden he let his man walk. I yelled at him, not realizing he was in serious pain. Bryce is a warrior, he'll be back." Ewald is the Merchantmen receiving franchise record holder with 5,539 yards and 32 touchdowns.

Injury or not, the season will continue. The Georgia Gridlock will be arriving in Maassluis next week. The Gridlock are league wide concidered to be a title contender, boosted by the AOC best 12-4 record last season. Following the bye week the season continues with games against the Syracuse Mohawks (2010 champs), the Rochester Lake Monsters and Boston Rhinos, whom both started the year 2-0.

[WSUCougar]

Congrats to the Merchantmen on a hard-fought win. Following the play-by-play, it seemed like the Dutch boys were the better squad on that day, but we had some tough breaks with the end zone INT and the late missed field goal. Sorry about Ewald.

[MIJB#19]

Bryce Ewald Placed On Injured Reserve
The Maassluis Merchantmen today put wide receiver Bryce Ewald on injured reserve. Ewald picked up a nasty knee injury that will sideline him for about five months. He wasn't unlikely to be back in time for the IHOF Bowl. Thus forcing the franchise record holder in receiving yards and receiving touchdowns to miss the season.

To replace Ewald, the team today presented Brady Pascal. The fourth year pro wide receiver had been out of a job since pre-season ended when the Williamsburg Colonials released him. Pascal used to be with the Bordeaux Vineyards, whom drafted him in 2009. Pascal has 35 career receptions for 434 yards and 3 scores. Aside from coming in as the fifth wide receiver, Pascal also joins the mix for kickoff return duties. Following Jimmy Stavrinos' fumble against the Ospreys, Pascal could potentially move into the #2 role behind Devin Henson.

Who the starting role from Ewald will take remains to be seen. Offensive Coordinator J.T. Pulliam today said it's still undisclosed: "We've got several options. Jewell Simpson makes the most sense, but we really like him as the #3 guy. Drew McConell is our next best receiver, but we're not sure ha can produce as a starter. Our gimmick would be playing more two tight end sets with Arnold Ramirez and Jim Reiser. We haven't used Reiser much yet this season, but he still has the speed and power to beat the linebackers and safeties he faces."

Additional to Ewald's injury, cornerback Brian Spears broke his arm and will be missing about half of the season. Spears hasn't been lucky in Maassluis so far, for the second year in a row he picks up a long-term injury after becoming the team leader in interceptions. With a pick in each game, Spears had been a key player on the defense in the nickelback role. Reliable long time backups Myron Stevens and Winford Endicott are pushed up on the depth chart again to cover the loss.

Defensive tackle Charles Gomez is expected to miss the game against the Georgia Gridlock. Gomez is already aiming for a full recovery to shine in the game against the Syracuse Mohawks. The Mohawks defeated the Merchantmen last season in the wildcard round. Andrew Rasmussen made good progress in the off-season, meaning he'll be likely to start for the eight' time in six seasons with the Merchantmen. Andy Weliczka, a starter in 2006 through 2009, returns to the active roster to backup Rasmussen and Frank Bernard.

Last but not least, Louie Flannery's knee trouble are getting less dangerous. But despite that, the team isn't willing to risk him much. Richard Bell has taken a lot of snaps in training with the first team to get him ready in case he has to start. Ironically, Bell had his first start for the Merchantmen last season against the Georgia Gridlock. Bell then completed 21 of 33 passes for 214 yards and a score, but couldn't avoid the fifth loss to the Gridlock in as many games in IHOF history.

[MIJB#19]

Merchantmen End Losing Streak Against Grodlock
The 2012 season continues to be good in Maassluis. The Merchantmen posted a 21-18 victory over the Georgia Gridlock. The win ended a five-game losing streak in the head-to-head series. Backup quarterback Richard Bell was the unsung hero with a big touchdown pass to tight end Jim Reiser.

The curse is over, the Gridlock has been beaten. With a stellar performance, the Merchantmen defeated one of the main contenders for the conference title. With wins over Bordeaux, Outer Banks and Georgia, the talk is more and more about vanquishing the bad taste from the 2007 conference final. But the road ahead is long.

Quarterback Louie Flannery once again played only half a game. Holding a 14-7 lead, the coaching staff felt safe to let Richard Bell take over shortly after half time. Flannery completed 14 of 18 passes for 123 yards and a score, keeping his season production high on leaders lists. With 80 percent of his passes completed, people wonder who the new Flannery is.

Louie Flannery said it isn't all that surprising: "Is a matter of personel. Last season I didn't get much time or opportunity to connect with the receivers. I had to rely a lot on (tight end) Jim Reiser. With Alfredo Bass around, defenses either give him double coverage, opening room for others, or I get Bass as a superb target downfield. Either way, it's much improved. And the offensive line does better as well."

Backup quarterback Richard Bell fullfilled his role as reliever well. Bell completed 5 of 8 passes for 117 yards, including an 81-yard bomb to Jim Reiser. Bell said: "Coach pressed me to hand off to the running backs a lot. I did just that. The touchdown pass was just a great play by Jim (Reiser). I noticed he was open and did a great job dodging the defenders to score."

The big fear for the Gridlock offense turned out to be overstated. The absence of running back Randy Reagor, who set the single season rushing record at 2,423 yards last season, played a big role. Quarterback Nate Sutter didn't get the passing game going, completing only 13 passes for 164 yards.

But as the Gridlock missed Reagor, the Merchantmen were playing without their star Charles Gomez. The linebackers Bernie Surry, Cody Cluff and Albert Boggess combined for 24 tackles, 8 assists and 1 interception, to give Andrew Rasmussen an easy day in Gomez' role.

With a 3-0 start of the season, there are happy faces all around. The Merchantmen did it twice before. The first time was in 2007, when the team managed to reach the AOC Final. Last season they managed it again en route to the European Division title. They came short in the wild card round against the defending IHOF champions, the Syracuse Mohawks. And those same Mohawks will be the next opponents in week five, following the bye week, eager to win as they will bring an 0-3 record into that game.