Introducing the 2025 Frankfurt Galaxy: A fresh start

With our new article series, we introduce all 16 European League of Football franchises for the 2025 season. We highlight the top stars that every fan needs to know. Today, we take a look at Frankfurt Galaxy, a team that had a season to forget in 2024.  

From champions to challengers  

In the first three seasons of the ELF, Frankfurt Galaxy was one of the most successful teams. Their biggest achievement remains winning the first-ever ELF Championship Game in 2021 against the Hamburg Sea Devils. But in 2024, things did not go as planned. Now, the team is looking to bounce back – and big changes have been made to make that happen.  

From a german to an american head coach  

After four years with Thomas Kösling as head coach, the Galaxy decided it was time for a change. Kösling moved into the role of sports director, and his first big decision was to bring in Bart Andrus as the new head coach. Andrus is a highly respected coach with over 40 years of experience, including time in college football, the NFL Europe, the Canadian Football League, and even the NFL. He has already proven his coaching ability in Europe, winning the World Bowl in 2005.  


Bart Andrus is the new head coach of the Galaxy. ©Philadelphia Stars

Playmaker Matthew McKay is back  

Last season, Galaxy had changes at the quarterback position. They started with Luke Zahradka, but he struggled to deliver. So, they brought in Matthew McKay, who made an immediate impact. His rushing ability gave the offense a whole new dimension. Unfortunately, in Week 13 against the Wrocław Panthers, McKay suffered a serious leg injury that ended his season. Now, he is back and ready to continue where he left off. Defenses will have a tough time stopping him.  


Matthew McKay returns for his second ELF season. ©Marie Sommer

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A familiar face for the head coach

Last season, Markell Castle was the team's top wide receiver with 1,180 receiving yards. But Frankfurt decided to go in a new direction and signed Terry Wright, a receiver with NFL experience. Wright has been on the rosters of the Seattle Seahawks, Pittsburgh Steelers, and Miami Dolphins. He also played in the CFL, XFL, USFL, and UFL. Wright is already familiar with head coach Bart Andrus, as they worked together in 2023. This will be Wright’s first season in Europe, and he is expected to be the number one target for quarterback Matthew McKay.


Terry Wright is the new top target for QB Matthew McKay. ©Philadelphia Stars

NFL experience for the defense  

Frankfurt also made big moves in their defensive backfield. Alongside Shyheim Battle, the team has signed Channing Stribling, an experienced defensive back who will cause problems for opposing quarterbacks. Stribling played at the University of Michigan, one of the top college programs in the U.S. He also gained NFL experience with teams like the Cleveland Browns, Indianapolis Colts, San Francisco 49ers, Los Angeles Chargers, and Washington Commanders. In addition, he played in other American and Canadian leagues, proving his ability at a high level. He will be a key player for Galaxy’s pass defense.  

DB Channing Stribling is one of the leaders of the defense. ©Philadelphia Stars

Back to full strength  

After a disappointing season and many changes, Frankfurt Galaxy is ready for a fresh start. With new leadership, key signings, and a motivated team, they want to show everyone how good they really are. Fans can expect an exciting season ahead!

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