Invaders start the GFL 2026 season with new momentum

The Hildesheim Invaders are entering the GFL 2026 season with a broadened roster and clear preparation. Ahead of the opener on May 9, the team is relying on returnees, more depth in defense, and a flexible offensive approach.

The preparation is complete, the season start is imminent: The Invaders open their 2026 campaign on May 9 against the Allgäu Comets. The course is clearly recognizable: continuity at the core, targeted reinforcements – and an organizationally well-planned start with six home games. In the top German league, which is traditionally organized into North and South and where every weekend small details can decide games, this mix is often the first indicator of how stable a team will be over a long season.

A grown roster with returnees and a regional core

In sporting terms, the Invaders are relying on a roster that has grown and is regionally shaped. With Philipp Dolezal and Johan Sager, two homegrown players are returning – a signal for the direction Hildesheim wants to stay on: integrating players from their own environment, keeping the team culture stable, and thus creating a foundation that holds even when the strain increases during the season.

In addition, running back Jeremie Beni, a well-known key player, is joining forces with rookie Tristan Gintaut to give the running game new impetus. Especially in tight GFL games, a reliable running game can be more than just "Plan B": it controls the clock and rhythm, relieves the offense, and forces opposing defenses to move closer to the line – which in turn can open up passing windows.

Within the existing core, the Invaders see further development. Christian Klötergens, Matti Probst, Georg Kraft, and Paul Terjung continue to form the backbone that has matured in recent months. For teams that do not want to rely solely on imports or short-term upheavals, this axis is crucial: it keeps standards high, stabilizes processes in training – and ensures that newcomers function more quickly because roles and responsibilities are clearer.

Head Coach Marcus Herford also emphasizes the attitude before the new season: "We have respect for every opponent in this league. The GFL is extremely strong. At the same time, we have invested a lot in recent months and can see how our team has developed. Now we want to show what we're made of."

More depth in defense, more options in offense

One focus is on defense. With Kyle Kitchens, a new addition for the defensive line is coming in, who is highly regarded internally – especially because in the GFL, the battle at the line of scrimmage often decides drives. If the defensive line generates pressure early, it can disrupt the opponent's playcalling: shorter passes, less time for deep concepts, more second and third downs with long distances. That's exactly where turnover chances and forced punts arise.

Together with Julian Thompson, Holden Hughes, Dorian Zuidema, and Willem Vancompernolle, the defense is expected to gain depth, athleticism, and experience. The personnel breadth is more than just a comfort issue: it enables rotation, keeps the tempo high even in long series, and reduces the risk that a single absence changes the structure of the entire unit.

This part of the team is managed by Javan Lenhardt, supported by Jacob Adelman and Lucas Höne. The fact that the coaches are not only relying on starters, but on a broader foundation, is one of the clearest signals of this preparation.

Offensively, Herford also works as offensive coordinator – and relies on variability and tempo. Quarterback Nelson Hughes is to be given the necessary time behind a strengthened offensive line with Dave Beale and Daniel Kane to execute the passing game. The key is not only protection in pure passing situations, but the ability to use the same personnel for different looks: if the line consistently creates space in the running game, the offense can sell play-action and quick concepts more credibly. This makes drives more predictable – and reduces dependence on "big plays" in individual moments.

Preparation, coaching staff, and home games are set

The preparation was geared towards competition level early on. Joint sessions with the Hannover Grizzlys and the Calgary Gators as well as the traditional Blue vs. White Game were part of it. Such formats are especially valuable for coaching staffs when it comes to making reliable decisions: Who maintains tempo over several series? Who communicates steadily in defense? Which combinations work under pressure – and which only in the training rhythm?

Herford also highlights the framework conditions. VfV 06 Hildesheim provided infrastructure, JIM Fitnessclub supported in the athletic area, and SV Dinklar was also part of the preparation. Herford says: "We are very grateful for the support from the region. Football is a team sport – and that applies not only on the field. Many partners have contributed to our ability to prepare professionally."

The coaching staff includes, in addition to Herford, Jared Hilbers, Dennis Kruschat, Rune Barusche, and David McCants.

Organizationally, the season is also clearly structured: a total of six home games are scheduled.

Helios am Philosophenweg Schedule

• May 9 – Allgäu Comets
• May 23 – Düsseldorf Panther
• August 22 – Berlin Rebels

Friedrich-Ebert-Stadion Schedule

• June 7 – Kiel Baltic Hurricanes
• June 20 – Potsdam Royals
• August 8 – New Yorker Lions

Advance ticket sales begin on Monday, May 4, 2026, online as well as in person at Telco on Hindenburgplatz.

• Day tickets: €16 (adults), €13 (reduced)
• Children up to and including 12 years: free admission
• Season passes for all home games: from €88
• MYSEAT season tickets: €120

Before the first kickoff, the Invaders present themselves with a broader roster and structured preparation. Whether the new momentum will carry them will be seen from May 9 in the GFL.