Braunschweig New Yorker Lions part ways with Tomlin and Likins
The Braunschweig New Yorker Lions will not renew the contracts of head coach Troy Tomlin and defensive coordinator Dave Likins after the 2025 GFL season, marking the end of their tenure as the club apparently adjusts to new budgetary priorities.
Tomlin’s legacy: A dynasty impacted by restructuring
Troy Tomlin, architect of the Lions’ modern dominance, departs after a career spanning over two decades. His five German Bowl titles (2013–2016, 2019) and five Eurobowl championships (2003 with Braunschweig Lions, 2015–2018) as a head coach along with three German Bowls and a Eurobowl as a defensive coordinator cemented Braunschweig as Europe’s premier franchise. His career record of 295 wins, 72 losses, and three ties cements him as one of Europe’s most successful American football coaches.
Likins’ impact: Defensive excellence meets new direction
Dave Likins, whose defensive schemes powered the Lions’ golden era, rejoined the team in 2024 after a stint with the Wroclaw Panthers, revitalizing the unit into a GFL powerhouse. He has won 10 German Bowls and seven Eurobowls (five with Braunschweig and one each with the Swarco Raiders and Calanda Broncos) in his career. His departure also aligns with the organization’s seemingly broader restructuring efforts.
Farewell amid transition
The duo’s final home game on September 6, 2025, at Eintracht-Stadion Braunschweig will include a ceremonial farewell, celebrating their achievements while underscoring the club’s strategic pivot.
Club emphasizes gratitude
Holger Fricke, GFL board member, stated: “We are saying goodbye to two extraordinary coaches who shaped the DNA of the Lions for decades. Their legacy will forever be part of our history.” The club’s announcement highlighted their role in elevating Braunschweig to a global standard-bearer, crediting their “tactical mastery and relentless pursuit of greatness” for a total of 17 German titles and five European crowns.
Legacy endures amid uncertainty
While Tomlin and Likins leave with multiple German titles and European crowns between them, the Lions seemingly face questions about maintaining competitiveness under ostensibly revised financial strategies. Their exit marks a pivotal moment for Braunschweig, balancing fiscal pragmatism with the challenge of sustaining on-field excellence.
