Frankfurt Galaxy will retain Thomas Kösling as head coach for the 2027 season, the franchise announced Tuesday. Kösling, who balances his coaching duties with a full-time career as a police officer, led the team to the playoff semifinals last season after a inconsistent season, fulfilling the organization’s season goal.
Thomas Kösling addresses team development and coaching continuity
Despite reaching the semifinals, Kösling expressed dissatisfaction on Tuesday, specifically citing a difficult loss to the previously winless Raiders Tirol as a “blow to the gut”. Reflecting on the challenges of the 2026 campaign, Kösling noted that when the team began its preparations in early 2026, competitors such as Copenhagen and Munich were months ahead of them. The head coach emphasized that for 2027, the team’s focus will shift toward continuity and targeted recruitment strategies to close the gap on top teams in the EFA.
A central component of this strategy is the retention of defensive coach Anthony Caljean. Kösling credited the American coach with building the “backbone of the team” during the first half of the previous season. Caljean’s status as the first full-time American coach in the organization allows for consistent year-round tactical analysis, as coaches are available throughout the entire off-season.
Strategic changes in recruitment and technology
The franchise is adjusting its approach to player acquisition to avoid past issues with player character. According to Kösling, the team is implementing personality testing for prospective signings. The club is also integrating artificial intelligence into its operations to assist with scouting and data management, allowing coaching staff to dedicate more time to on-field instruction.
The organization has also moved to secure key players early. Unlike the lead-up to the previous season, the team has already signed its core roster, which is expected to be announced in the coming days. This timeline provides the squad with the ability to train together until April before the season officially begins in May.
Competitive challenges
Kösling tempered expectations regarding a championship run, identifying the Nordic Storm franchise as too strong. He noted that the Kopenhagen-based team benefits from a better domestic recruitment pool, whereas he views Hessen as “not the perfect football location” due to a limited number of potential players.
The roster will also undergo a significant change at the quarterback position. Zach Calzada, who joined the team in July, will not return for the 2027 season. Calzada received a six-game suspension for a rough foul, a penalty that Kösling determined made retaining the player unfeasible for the upcoming campaign.
Timeline for the 2027 season
The franchise is currently finalizing its roster and is scheduled to present its key signings in the coming days. The team will maintain a consistent training schedule through April, leading into the start of the 2027 competitive season in May.
