Krefeld ice hockey fans celebrate the end of the season despite the bitter play-off-out!

Krefeld ice hockey fans celebrate the end of the season despite the bitter play-off-out!

Last Saturday, April 18, 2025, the Krefeld ice hockey club (KEV) celebrated its season final at the Nordbahnhof. Over 700 euphorized fans filled the place and completed the season in great community joy. During the event, the players had the opportunity to distribute autograph cards and be available for photos.

coach Thomas Popiesch and goalkeeper Felix Bick looked back on the past season and the challenging play-offs against the Ravensburg Towerstars. Popiesch emphasized the positive development of the association and emphasized the tireless will to win of the team. The fans eagerly awaited personnel news, but first had to enjoy the celebration before the future of the team was discussed.

Farewell and future

One of the central reports was that Yushiroh Hirano leaves Krefeld Penguins to take part in the A-World Cup in Romania with the national team. Leon Niederberger also confirmed his departure, but did not want to reveal any details about his switch to DEG. In addition, Maximilian Adam could also leave the club because talks about a contract termination are underway.

sports director Peter Draisaitl informed the fans that four contingencies have already been occupied for the coming season. Possible newcomers are Matt Santos, who comes from the TowerStars, and Roope Mäkitalo from Weißwasser. In addition, Robbie Czarnik is expected to apply for a German passport by the new season, while striker Philipp Kuhnekath should stay in the team.

Play-off party against Ravensburg

The ceremonial conclusion follows just a few days after the Krefeld penguins left the play-offs. In an exciting semi -final game, they lost 2: 3 against the Ravensburg Towerstars after extra time. Ultimately, the Krefeld could not turn the series and had to give up 2: 4; The tower stars became champions in 2023.

The crucial game was shaped by intensive duels. At the beginning of the game, punishments against Lessio and Pfaffengut led to a challenging situation for the Krefeld. Jan Nijenhuis scored the first goal for the tower stars, followed by Robbie Czarnik's goal. Despite a clear chance of scoring for Matsumoto, which was revoked according to video evidence, the penguins fought back and scored the 1-2 connection through Christian Kretschmann. Jon Matsumoto equalized to 2: 2 shortly after the beginning of the final third, after all, the penguins kept the game open until extension. In this, however, the game was finally decided when Erik Karlsson scored the winning goal for Ravensburg, while Krefeld was on the penalty bench with two players.

After this emotional end, the club is now going into the summer break, in which the basis for the coming season must be laid. The fans can be excited to see what changes and new additions will bring the next season.