Steelers

Amerikkalaista jalkapalloa Kuopiossa

Gerly Matihaldi

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The Summer Menu – “I refuse to fail!”

Did you know that the best roast is slowly cooked? This is how Vincent McDonald (Vinnie) has been preparing for his season in Kuopio Steelers. He was lucky enough, or I would say blessed, to truly focus on his skills and improve his flexibility in the field in the past year; by getting up every morning at 5 am to train and keep his full-time job while doing so. Together making close to 400 days on his preparation, obviously, he is not keeping track of the days. Highly motivated and ready to show what he is all about we welcome WR (wide receiver) Vincent McDonald to our team in Steelers.

When we asked about his achievements, he didn’t hold back:

“In my Senior Year I played in 9 games with 649 yards and 9 touchdowns. I did this all with a sprained ACL and a partial tear in my patella tendon. I was able to have a Pro Day from a Division 3 school and be one of the top overall performers. Since then, I have gotten stronger and faster. I run 4.5 and can clean 315 LBs.”

Vinnie promises to show what he is all about while having the high motivation to succeed. He commits to surprising people, not only with his secret skills in cooking but also in the field by being faster and stronger than ever before. On his journey to be a professional American football player he has changed his mindset to the next level thinking of a journey is more important than the final product and being patient:

“Fall in love with the process and not the product. Also, control what you can and wait for your turn.”

His outstanding motivation for the game, serves many aspects of his actions, for instance making him a natural leader who wants to lead by example. He sees the game as being therapeutic in terms of proving people wrong:

“People think NYC kids cannot play football.”

“People talk down on Division 3 athletes as if we aren’t just as good, if not better than the top prospects coming out of college.“

“People telling me to give up because they think I’m better off using my degree;
I refuse to fail.”

After, receiving unbelievably bad news about Rashad Still not being able to travel to Finland we were devastated. It took us a moment to overcome the shock and start looking for his replacement. We are happy to find Vincent McDonald, to whom we put our faith and trust for the season. In this season the stakes are high… The stage is yours, Vinnie!

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How Much Fun Can be Contained in 118 kg and 1.98 m?

Jan Steiger

Kuopio Steelers has been familiar to him for years as Finnish champions and over YouTube channel. From Germany, we have another reinforcement in OL – Jan Steiger. His biggest achievement has nothing to do with football, the man has managed to drop his body weight from 190 kg to 118 kg, showing he has the Finnish “sisu” (gut) before he even joins the team in Finland. 

His player history can be summed up with words: “I’m 28 years old big man from the South of Germany (Ulm) a played the last 2 years as LT in Stuttgart. It was a good time with bad results… “ We are eager to give him a chance to show his abilities with Kuopio Steelers. There is something in him that head coach Pekka has noticed: 

“Playing Left Tackle in football is one of the toughest positions in team sports if you ask me, there just aren’t too many big, tall guys who can move in space around, so we are very happy and fortunate to get Jan here in Kuopio for the upcoming 2023 season. Experienced guy, really a plug-and-play guy for us, and that always helps. Just have to get the OL unit working together, not needing to learn the position the big guy is playing. Jan has faced top European competition the past two seasons there in the ELF, and the Maple League will likely again have a bunch of really good defensive ends to block. Sure feels good to have Jan as the bookend to Oskari Laitinen playing on the other side of the offensive line.”

His personal expectations of Finland touch on the experience of paying outside of Germany “…it’s my first time in Finland or playing outside of Germany… my expectations… I want to see the nice country and want to try all the typical Finnish food! And learn a lot about Finnish culture.” 

On his journey as a professional football player, he has learned about people and the ability to develop yourself you have to be challenged by the best players in Europe. “I learned much about people from different countries… to pay against the best in Europe makes you better and better!” His learnings are reflected in the knowledge that he brings to the team “leadership, smart analysis on the players, hard worker…” not forgetting his promise to be The Funny Guy and to be a role model. 

1.98 m, 118 kg and shows size 49, can we now say that we have a bigfoot in a team? We hope he can hear what the coaches are telling him because he is quite tall. We do have high hopes for The Funny Guy package, he can be found on Instagram under the name “blindsidebomber.” Make sure you follow him on social media and he will be hard to miss on the field. A warm welcome to Jan! 

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“Football is My Motivation”

Simon Otto “Signed!”

Dedication and focus have brought this young German player Simon Otto (CB) to be part of Finland’s best team in American football. The man puts it in words “there is no need for motivation when playing football. It has become such a big part of my life, that the feeling of playing football and giving it my all, sets me free of all worries and allows me to feel the moment like nothing else does. Chasing after a receiver at full speed lets me feel my full potential of physical abilities, which empowers me mentally. Football is my motivation.” 

His passion for football started quite early in his life with inspiration from another player Luca Hebel who will also join the Kuopio Steelers season 2023. Let the young man introduce himself and his journey to Kuopio: 

“Hey… …My name is Simon Otto, I am from the metropolitan area of Frankfurt, I’m 21… …and currently I am studying in college while pursuing my goals in terms of football.

I started playing football at 15 and played in a club near Frankfurt (Hanau Hornets) where I started playing football through my classmate Luca Hebel. After getting some experience in football I made the youth state team in 2017 and then transferred to Frankfurt Universe in 2019 where I played and started a few games in the GFL at 18. After having to take a break during the covid year, in 2021 I changed teams to Frankfurt Galaxy in the ELF where we won the championship in its inaugural season. My 2022 season got cut short due to an injury where I broke my hand after starting in the first game of the season.“

His journey in football has brought him some valuable life learnings and showed him the way to pass the obstacles with a wise mindset, “throughout my football journey, I have learned that there is no mistake that is bad, the only mistake is to not see it as a blessing from which you can learn for future situations. Football is for me the prettiest expression of this concept, when the receiver makes a play for a few yards on you and you just take it as a lesson to be learned from for the next play, the next play might bring you a much bigger reward.”

We asked head coach Pekka how he managed to find such a highly motivated and skilled player. Also, we are interested to know what expectations he has regarding Simon. He says: 

“Simon is a very talented young player, who was supposed to break through on the European football scene this past summer there in Frankfurt, but an unfortunate injury stole that opportunity away from him. Now, it is going to happen in Kuopio, and we are of course very excited about that. Simon has all the tools, speed, football IQ, physicality, and some nice length in his frame to be able to match up against the opposing teams’ top targets.”

Since it is Simon’s first time in Finland we were curious about his assumptions about Finland, he comments “2023 will be my first year playing in Finland and I expect to play in probably one of the top 3 best leagues in Europe, so I definitely expect to see some good competition while doing everything to keep the championship trophy in Kuopio.” With tremendous motivation and putting high expectations of himself, he seems to be quite confident about his skills and team abilities in Finland and at the European level. 

Simon promises to bring his team spirit to Kuopio, and help out the team with no fear of getting his hands dirty, “2023 I aspire to be a big help for the already very talented defensive backfield and hopefully be a piece that will complete the defense to once again prove that defense wins championships. Also, I want to just be a part of a group of goal-driven disciplined individuals who have proven throughout the last three years that hard work pays off.” 

Since Simon’s 22nd birthday is coming up (17.11) we wish him many successful years in the field and may he reach his goals. We cannot wait to see him in action on the field in season 2023 to live up to his true potential. Welcome, Simon!

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The Call of Karjalanpiirakka!

The best Karelian pastries are self-made, right? “YES!” answers the German background defensive back player Lars Steffen who is back after the season 2021. In the season 2021, Lars clinched the Maple Bowl victory with a late interception in the own endzone. Signing the contract with Kuopio Steelers, not more than a week ago ensures that the team of 2023 is focused on gathering the best of the best for upcoming events next year. We asked Lars, how does it feel to be back:

“It feels awesome to be back in Kuopio. I really missed it and it’s just great to be back and start building the foundation for a championship. Luckily, I came before the winter set in, so I could see the beautiful fall of Kuopio.”

Enjoying colorful fall in Finland and making homemade Karelian pies Lars is strongly focused on team play and self-development as an athlete. He finds team efforts to be key to success and his life learnings to help him see his and his team’s potential:

“Well, I would say that you are always stronger if you fight together. Nothing can beat a team if they are there for each other and have each other’s back IF everybody is as invested as they have to be!”

“Also, what I learned about myself is that you can always achieve your goals. Sometimes it goes faster, sometimes it takes a while, but if you believe in yourself and have a great work ethic it will get you to some places you never imagined.”

With his long list of achievements so far (see below), he promised to the team “I will bring a lot of leadership, experience, and physicality with me, and hopefully that translates to the whole team.” According to the new strategy of the Kuopio Steelers where the focus is more on improving the current skills and encouraging younger teammates to play professionally, he seems to be a great fit for the team in season 2023, and head coach Pekka cannot be more pleased:

“When I told the team that Lars is coming back to the Steelers, I think I described him as a big-time Safety, a leader, and a practice-holic. All those three things combined tell everyone what we are getting really well. Smart, tough player who is able to play the run and the pass, always good things for safety. He has played in top-level European competition for a long time now and had a really strong season in the ELF last summer and we are thrilled to have him here again. Lars will also be in Kuopio full time through the offseason, and for our younger guys he will absolutely set the bar high in terms of work ethic by his own example.”

As we set out eyes on the upcoming season of 2023 it is important to remember that each small effort that players make is closer to the team’s and their personal goals. The opportunity to have foreign players enrich our team and share their knowledge is vital to our team and fans.

Lars Steffen:

2015 – First year of GFL1 leading tackler in the Team (Düsseldorf Panther 65tkl, 3interceptions, 1TD)

2016 – German Bowl Champion, Eurobowl champion with the New Yorker Lions, 46tkl (4 INTs, 1TD)

2017– Vize Germanbowl champ, Eurobowl Champion, Team intern strength and conditioning test Winner called Ironman (4 INTs,1TD)

2018– Eurobowl Champion (3 INTs, 1 TF, 1 FF)

2019– Germanbowl Champion (2 INTs, lead the defense, 2FFs, 2 TDs)

The team voted ‘Defensive skill Player of the year’

2021 – Maple Bowl winner with the Kuopio Steelers (1 INT)

2022 – Wroclaw Panthers (9 breakups, 66 tackles)

2022– Number 49 in the list of Top 50 in the European League of Football

Stats From 2015-2022

358 tackles

18 Interceptions

5 forced fumbles

3 fumble recoveries

33 break ups

40 deflections

5 TDs

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A Tongue doesn’t Get Things Done

– Amit Kalantri

The man of few words, perfect for Finland. …but when he speaks, he says what he means, he is not overpowered by himself, he is humble and curious… His skills peak more about him than his long list of achievements or as he sums it up himself: “I’m a college all American all time tackling leader at my college and a two country most valuable player (MVP). Winning a championship 2021. Maple bowl MVP.” You might have guessed it, it is Maurice Wright Jr in the position of linebacker (LB), his here, his back, and he has signed with the Kuopio Steelers for the upcoming season 2023. 

Reflecting on the new strategy of the Kuopio Steelers for next season, we are curious to know why head coach Pekka has picked Maurice to support the team, he says: 

“Maurice was selected as the 2021 Maple league MVP and the Maple bowl MVP – these are not awards often given to linebackers, anywhere, which tells all about the player. His speed, range, power, knowledge of the game, instincts, turnovers and TDs both on offense and defense are all off the charts. We have had the luxury here of having a superstar at the linebacker position through all our past five seasons in the league, and we will have that again this upcoming summer. Having the past two league MVPs in ’Reese’ and ’Ant’ back is of course the best possible way of kickstarting the recruiting for the 2023 campaign.”

Yes, you read it correctly, Pekka Utriainen will continue as a head coach for the next season. We are more than happy to keep a family together and expand our knowledge to the youngest players. Now back to Maurice…

For Maurice, it seems that being back in the team feels more like a family reunion where you see your relatives after a long time being apart, or as he says “feels good to be back with where it all started with my brothers. Going to be a great time just bonding again and creating something great.” Also, his expectations are high, there are not just players in the field, but it takes more than individual passion to achieve your personal goals, you cannot achieve anything without excellent leadership. This is one of his key learnings reflected in his actions of listening and guiding or as he is putting it ”I learned that it takes a group to do something great and great leader to set the example.” Leading by example seems to be the key source of motivation for the team for 2023. 

Since this season is not his first with Kuopio Steelers, the last time he was with the team was in 2021, we wondered what he has to offer for the team after having enlightening moments of his career. He kept his answer short but filled with the promise of something unseen “a mad beast ready to get out of his cage.” That answer might get you excited or scared, a bit, but his words are his promise, and we bet you don’t want to miss what is coming next. Stay tuned and enjoy the ride! 

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The Silent Whispers of SAVO

His favorite place to eat in Kuopio is in the restaurant called Kings Crown. It could be the name of the restaurant that keeps louring him back to North Savo. This player does not need much other introduction, his achievements speak for themselves. Welcome back Le’Anthony Reasnover, he has just signed for the upcoming season 2023 with Kuopio Steelers, making it his third season with the club. For those who do not know him (yet), he is a self-made man with a passion for American football. When you ask Le’Anthony to tell his story, grab a sandwich and take a seat, it might take a while. Here is how the master describes himself and his achievements: 

”I am Le’Anthony Reasnover, born in Chicago, Illinois Raised in Kankakee, Illinois by way of Sun River Terrace and Momence, Illinois. Coming up from Illinois Gold & Riverside Colts youth football program to playing high school sports at Momence High School “I played behind some of the greatest running backs in Illinois State history”. I played Four collegiate years at Eureka College, setting the All-time Leading Rushing Record with over 6,000 yards surpassed, over 600 Career Points Scored, with a sad 99 Career Touchdowns. During my years at Eureka College, I was fortunate to grow and achieve great success. I was a 4-year career starter, we played in 3 Conference Championships, lost the first championship as a sophomore (year two) in college, we learned the feeling of defeat, won ever since. Two NCAA Playoff Games, 2 x All-American 6x selection, Gagliardi Semi-finalist Selection (Division III Heisman Trophy), 3 x All Regional Player, Player of the year 2017 & 2018 (NACC Conference; UMAC Conference), MVP (Most Valuable Player) of Podyum All-Star Senior Bowl 2018, NCAA Leading Points Scorer 2018 NCAA Leading Rusher and Touchdowns 2018, EVERY Eureka College Rushing Record. Holds the Eureka College Track & Field 400 Meters Relay Record! First to do many from Eureka College, Kankakee, Sun River Terrace, Momence, Chicago, Englewood, the whole south side, my family, who raised me, my mother. There’s much to be proud of I’m an uncle, a brother, a teammate, a best friend, a man, it’s an a honor to be a runningback representing the United States, my neighborhood, my legacy, my family’s name.”

”Coming into my 3rd season as a Steeler, I have surpassed 1000+ yards in my first two seasons, winning Two Maple Bowls, Offensive Player of the Year, Maple League Player of the Year. Statistical category champion in Pts, TDs, and Yards! I have achieved many great things to be proud of being a professional athlete representing my families name is like not other, still none sit with you like hoisting that trophy up with your teammates at the end of an incredible ride, that I’ve done 4 times and counting!”

Hold on there is more. Each year the stakes are higher, and the games are more intense and mentally challenging, what does it take from a player to challenge themselves to show to the club that they can do more, be more and give more? It needs courage and as Finnish people call it “sisu” (guts) he has it, never anything seems to be enough and for that reason, he is back to support the team in the upcoming season, we did ask him about his thoughts on coming back, the man delivered: 

”I’m ready! Going into year 3 expectations are even higher! We capped a perfect season last year, that’s an ultimate challenge to continue setting the standard of how things are to be done. More domination more excellence! Going into this season with the guys we have on this roster we’re excited to get on that field with one another and take on all challenges! This a great time, a great moment to be a Kuopio Steeler! We’re supposed to be on this level of greatness achieving the many things we want to achieve. I’m excited I have teammates on this team I really can call a friend, I believe in the greatness we have coming, and I’m ready to seize the moment!”

”I really love the environment of the football city here in Kuopio. The culture of Finnish football inside of Europe it’s a great thing to see, I’m glad to be a part of the culture of European football, and to be doing it as a Steeler the Steeler way it’s incredible! …”

His journey has shown him that the passion for something you love unconditionally is worth every sacrifice for it. The excitement of the game and being part of the club “…Steelers… it’s that feeling of loyalty, bond, and encouragement, that brings the best out of us in those moments we really need each other. We’re playing at a championship pedigree level, we have what it takes to keep achieving things we all can be proud of. You can feel the morale as a proud fan of the team…”

It is not only about the game that supports his personal goals, but various things also go behind it, for example without extremely motivated coaches and staff in the background would not make players’ life more enjoyable. It is nice to hear that our efforts have been noted and are appreciated: 

”Not enough credit goes to how skilled our coaching staff is, compared to the big names and teams in Europe, we have homegrown coaches that love this city, passionately love this organization the values and core principles come from those guys with the headsets on commanding our every move, it’s kudos to Pekka and the rest of the staff! Their very high level and set the precedent of the results you see on gameday!”

In Le’Anthony’s return, his promise to the team is focused on self-development as a player, but not hiding his learnings and keeping them to himself, he is ready to show the team how they can improve and do better with focus, direction, and a lot of passion. 

”I am excited to showcase another level of my game, I am only scratching the surface of the heights I will reach by putting the work in and continuing to get better.” 

Le’Anthony is the man of his word and has proven countless times that he is not to be messed with on the field. He loves the hurray’s from the crowd and support from the fans keeps him going, he has been the most active team member to create special social media campaigns to promote the home games with Peter Lundstöm. Without even asking, he delivers, again: 

”This 2023 season will be special! Hope you all support the ride this year tell a friend, phone a family member, let them know Kuopio Football has just gone into another phase of dominance, come support we love it all, it motivates us!”

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