Promotion or Demotion in the Team: Could Hamburg be getting a new first team in the near future?

The Hamburg Pioneers, the city's oldest American football club, have secured the GFL 2 title, two years after their promotion from the regional league. This victory marks the fruits of hard work, according to head coach Stefan Mau, who sees the team's current success as a testament to the dedication and perseverance of the players and volunteers.

Coach Mau emphasizes that the structures for medium to long-term success were laid in the regional league. The Pioneers' focus on local players, such as Malik Schachner, and the commitment of many players who have been with the team for several years, have played a significant role in the team's progress.

Raleigh "Trey" Yeldell, referred to as the team's leader, has been instrumental in the Pioneers' success. The US quarterback, along with a few import players, is the only one who receives a salary, as the team does not have the means to pay its players. Volunteer work is crucial for the Pioneers on match days and in training operations.

The Pioneers' stadium, affectionately called "the little Wimbledon of football" by coach Mau, has a capacity of 1,000. The team's home artificial turf stadium in Stadtpark (Jahnring 26) will host a crucial relegation home game against the Paderborn Dolphins on September 20. The decision for the Pioneers' season will be made on September 27.

The Pioneers' family has recently welcomed former Sea Devils players. The Hamburg Sea Devils, another football team, share the same uncertain future as the European League of Football (ELF), as its future is uncertain. Despite this, the Pioneers remain optimistic about causing trouble for Paderborn in the relegation game.

However, the future progression to the top-class GFL is uncertain due to the necessary licensing, stadium, and financial considerations. The Pioneers aim to establish American football in Hamburg long-term with a stable sporting and financial plan. After winning the GFL 2 title, their goal is promotion to the GFL top league by succeeding in the upcoming relegation matches against Paderborn Dolphins in September 2025.

Meanwhile, Birte Steinhoffel, a board member, aspires for the women's team, the Amazons, to win the championship this year. The new members joined the Pioneers voluntarily, not because they were poached. The Hamburg Pioneers, with their rich history and promising future, continue to make strides in the world of American football.

Promotion or Demotion in the Team: Could Hamburg be getting a new first team in the near future?