Stuttgart Surge celebrate historic 2025 season as they prepare for 2026 in EFA
The Stuttgart Surge capped off a remarkable 2025 season by claiming their first-ever ELF Championship title, a crowning achievement that marks a significant milestone in the franchise’s history. With a solid 10-2 record, the team secured the West Division title and clinched a playoff spot by Week 13, but it was their championship victory that truly defined their season. As they look to the future, the Surge have also announced their entry into the European Football Alliance, marking an exciting new chapter for the franchise.
Season in review
The Surge showcased one of the most potent offenses in the league, averaging 43 points per game—the highest in the ELF. Quarterback Reilly Hennessey led the charge, throwing for 2,176 yards and 20 touchdowns. His top target, receiver Louis Geyer, caught 58 passes for 921 yards and 13 touchdowns, ranking sixth overall in the league. Running back Tomiwa Oyewo also made significant contributions, rushing for 669 yards and 5 touchdowns. On the defensive side, Stuttgart was equally formidable, allowing just 16.1 points per game, which was the second-best mark in the league. Linebacker Nikolas Knoblauch was the leading tackler, notching 72 tackles, including 5 tackles for loss and a sack. Cornerback Ben Wenzler stood out with 4 interceptions and 13 passes defended, the third-best in the league. Head coach Jordan Neuman noted the team’s growth throughout the season, stating, “We weren’t a great football team at the start of the year… we got better and better throughout the season.”
A long journey
The championship win represents a remarkable turnaround for the Surge. Since the ELF’s inception in 2021, Stuttgart struggled with a 2-8 record in their first season and a winless 0-12 in 2022. However, starting in 2023 with Neuman’s move from the Schwäbisch Hall Unicorns in the German Football League to the Surge, Stuttgart began to rise, finishing 10-2 that year and reaching the finals, followed by an 11-1 record in 2024 with a semifinal exit. The 2025 season marked the culmination of their efforts, as they finally claimed the coveted title.
The final step
The 2025 ELF Championship Game mirrored Stuttgart’s season. Trailing the Vienna Vikings 14-17 at halftime, the Surge made a strong comeback in the second half, allowing no points while adding 10 of their own. They secured a 24-17 victory, solidifying their place in league history.
Looking ahead
As the Surge prepare to defend their title in the European Football Alliance, Coach Neuman’s message is clear: “We just rebuild and try to win it back.” After years of growth and perseverance, the Surge enter the new season not as underdogs, but as champions ready to face new challenges.
