Today 13:00, by Alex Malchow
A Brief History of the ELF's Madrid Bravos
The Madrid Bravos were the lone expansion franchise of the European League of Football in 2024, becoming Spain second team after teh Barcelona Dragons. Despite it being thier first season the Bravos qualified for the post-season in a competitive western conference featuring the eventual champion Rhein Fire and the semi-finalist Paris Musketeers.
Established: September 26th, 2023
Conference: Western
Location: Madrid, Spain
Stadium: Estadio Vallehermoso (Captacity 9,000)
Head Coach: Andrew Weidinger
General Manager: Jaime Martín Lostao
Ownership: Marlos Sports 2022 SL
Under the leadership of veteran head coach Rip Scherer the Madrid Bravo sent shock waves throughout the league defeating the defending champion Rhein Fire on the road in Week 3 of the 2024 season.
Overall the Bravos made impressive strides in their first season making the postseason with a 8-4 record in a tough western conference. In a rematch with the Rhein Fire they were defeated in Germany ending what was an incredible first season for the expansion franchise.
The team had several stars including running backs Dwayne Obi and Edu Molina, as well as quarterback Steven Duncan and homegrown talent Alejandro Fernandez. Other standouts on offense were wide receivers Jean-Claude Madin Cerezo, Willie Patterson, and Mario Flores, along with tight end Raul Cernuda Pastor.
On defense Pablo Araya Matilla was nominated for defensive Rookie of year after leading the team in tackles. The rookie paired well with veteran All-Star safety Luke Glenna who finished the season with 5 interceptions.
Following the season the Madrid Bravos announced head coach Rip Sherer would not return, and the Bravos would be led by former ELF coach of the year Andrew Weidinger. Recently the Bravos announced former NFL and XFL quarterback Reid Sinnett as their QB1 for 2025. They have also resigned several key Spanish homegrown players.
Read about the Bravos QB1
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