The Blizzard is once more on a break, and the Midwest division has only seen one more game since we last updated you - Omaha Kings v Wichita Wings tonight. It marks the end of the head coaching tenure for Omaha owner Emmanuel Viel. Posting on Instagram he said
This Friday will be the final regular season game for Omaha Kings FC against Wichita… and it will also mark the end of my journey as head coach after six unforgettable years.
This decision hasn’t been easy. This game, this team, and this organization have meant so much to me. Every practice, every game, every challenge—we built something special together. Through the highs and the lows, the wins and the lessons, I’ve given everything I have to this, and in return, it has given me memories and relationships that will stay with me forever.
To every player who has worn the Omaha Kings FC and Omaha Queens FC jersey—thank you. Thank you for your sacrifice, your passion, and your commitment to representing something bigger than yourselves, both on and off the field. You are the heart of this organization.
To my friends, my father, my mother, and especially my incredible wife—thank you for standing by me through it all. For believing in me, pushing me, and supporting me during the long nights, the stressful moments, and the victories. I wouldn’t be here without you.
Although I’m stepping away from coaching, I’m not stepping away from this organization. I truly believe the best is still ahead, and now it’s time for me to help this club grow in a different way and continue building toward something even greater.
From the bottom of my heart—thank you for everything. This will always be a part of me.
Omaha Kings 9-7 Wichita Wings
Despite some kamikaze play by their goalkeeper, Omaha went into the half up 4-3. The Kings then built a solid lead, but finished the game trading goals with the visitors. The result gave Viel's Kings a chance to elevate into second place for the moment, doing all they can to earn a playoff spot directly, rather than through a Wild Card. As host of the Final Four, the Omaha Kings are guaranteed a playoff spot in the quarterfinals if they are not one of the top two teams in the Midwest. In that case, only the top team in the West will earn an automatic spot.
Blizzard Update
Before the Blizzard indoor squad steps out again at Centennial Sports Arena, the club's outdoor squad makes its season debut, with a US Amateur Cup Region II Qualifier against Vlora FC on McMurray Fields in St. Paul's Como Park on Saturday, April 4th at 8 pm. The two groups are almost entirely separate, with Devan DiGrado, Ryan DeBois, and Logan Weller the only players to suit up for both squads. We'll update you on how that goes.
As you can see, it has been a spectacular season for the Quarterfinal hosts, Iowa Demon Hawks, whose women's side also recently won the MASLW. More details on the playoff structure as we close out the regular season, with Blizzard hosting the Raptors and then the unbeaten Demon Hawks in Circle Pines, Minnesota.
Full coverage of every twist and turn of the rest of the season is only available to subscribers at the Blue tier and above. Click the button in the top right to join the fun for only $3 a month or $30 a year.
