Saturday, October 31, 2009

Update on Ben Fanelli

Press Release

The Kitchener Rangers organization would like to provide an update on the condition of Ben Fanelli who was injured during the Rangers game on Friday, October 30th against the Erie Otters.

Ben was conscious and transported to Grand River Hospital then immediately air lifted to Hamilton General Hospital.

As of early this morning he is in intensive care and listed in critical but stable condition.

He suffered a head injury which included skull and facial fractures and a laceration above the eye that was the cause of blood loss.

"Ben's parents and family experienced something that we all wish would never happen", said Chief Operating Officer of the Kitchener Rangers, Steve Bienkowski.

"Their focus and concern for their son needs to be respected. I can't stress enough the need to respect their privacy and that all media inquires and announcements will be made through the Rangers organization. Our immediate focus will be to assist the Fanelli family and our players as we all deal with Ben's injuries."

The Rangers organization and the Fanelli family would like to thank the teams, families and fans for their support of Ben.


(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Team USA wins exhinition

Press Release

MONTAGUE, P.E.I. - Shane Berschbach (Clawson, Mich./Indiana Ice) tallied two goals and an assist as the U.S. Junior Select Team downed Canada West, 5-2, in an exhibition game here tonight at Montague and Area Wellness Centre in Montague, P.E.I. The game marked Team USA's only exhibition contest as it prepares for the World Junior A Challenge Nov. 1-8 in Summerside, P.E.I.

"It was great for the team to get a game under its belt before we open the tournament," said Mark Carlson, head coach of the 2009 U.S. Junior Select Team. "We did some real nice things tonight and learned what we have to work on as we move forward."

The U.S. and Canada West traded goals in the first period, with Berschbach opening the scoring at 2:43. Matt Leitner (Los Alamitos, Calif./Fargo Force) sent a pass to David Gerths (Ankeny, Iowa/Lincoln Stars), who dumped the puck toward the net. Berschbach banged the puck past Canadian West goaltender Kirby Halcrow to give the U.S. a 1-0 lead. Canada West's Conner Jones responded with a tally at 5:43 before Jeff Costello's (Milwaukee, Wis./Cedar Rapids RoughRiders) power-play marker at 7:41 from Nic Dowd (Huntsville, Ala./Indiana Ice) and Beau Bennett (Gardena, Calif.) gave the U.S. a 2-1 advantage. Bennett's slap shot from the blue line was tipped by Dowd and then jammed into the net by Costello. Canada West's Kellen Jones tied the game, 2-2, with a power-play marker at 19:58.

In the second period, Dowd gave the U.S. a 3-2 lead when his shot from the slot beat Halcrow over his glove at 4:32. Gerths and Berschbach collected assists on the play.

John Parker (Green Brook, N.J./Indiana Ice) took passes from Chris Crane (West Chester, Ohio/Green Bay Gamblers) and Nick Sorkin (Rockville, Md./Waterloo Black Hawks) down the right wing and fired a short-side shot past Halcrow to extend Team USA's lead, 4-2, at 9:18 of the final frame. Berschbach added his second tally of the game with an empty-net goal with 37 seconds remaining in the period to account for the 5-2 final.

U.S. netminder Will Yanakeff (Jerome, Mich./Sioux City Musketeers) turned aside 28 shots in the game.

Team USA faces Canada East in its first game of the World Junior A Challenge Sunday (Nov. 1) at 6 p.m. EST

(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Warnig to Minnesota

Press Release

Cedar Rapids RoughRiders forward Sam Warning has committed to play hockey at the University of Minnesota following his USHL career.

The native of Chesterfield, Missouri is in his first USHL season after being selected by the RoughRiders in the 14th round of the 2009 USHL Entry Draft. Warning scored a goal on his first shot in the League during the season opener for Cedar Rapids, a 7-4 win at Des Moines. The 17-year-old also scored a goal in his second game of the season, which was a 3-1 victory at Sioux City. He has four points (2g, 2a) in seven games played during the 2009-10 campaign.

"As an organization, the RoughRiders are very happy for Sam and supportive of his decision," said Mark Carlson, RoughRiders Head Coach and General Manager. "We look forward to having him on the team for another season, and are confident that he will be a valuable asset to the Gophers when he joins them in 2011."

Warning also gained some international experience this past summer while playing for the United States Under-18 Select Team that competed at the 2009 Ivan Hlinka Memorial Tournament in Piestany, Slovakia and finished fourth.

Seven other current USHL players are committed to the University of Minnesota; Ryan Walters (Des Moines Buccaneers), Nate Condon (Fargo Force), Nate Schmidt (Fargo Force), Seth Ambroz (Omaha Lancers), Erik Haula (Omaha Lancers), Justin Holl (Omaha Lancers), and Travis Boyd (Team USA).

The University of Minnesota Gophers are members of the WCHA and currently have 14 former USHL players on their roster; Kevin Wehrs (Cedar Rapids RoughRiders), Seth Helgeson (Sioux City Musketeers), Patrick White (Tri-City Storm), Taylor Matson (Des Moines Buccaneers), Tony Lucia (Omaha Lancers), Nico Sacchetti (Omaha Lancers), Joe Miller (Sioux City Musketeers), Jacob Cepis (Cedar Rapids RoughRiders), Nick Larson (Omaha Lancers), Jake Hansen (Sioux Falls Stampede), Josh Birkholz (Fargo Force), Jay Barriball (Sioux Falls Stampede), Alex Kangas (Indiana Ice), and Kent Patterson (Cedar Rapids RoughRiders).

(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

U-16 Challenge Cup

Press Release

Game 1: Team Manitoba 4 - Team Saskatchewan 2

Brendan Leipsic scored 1 goal and added an assist to lead Team Manitoba to a 4-2 win over Team Saskatchewan in game 1 of the 2009 Western Canada U-16 Challenge Cup from Blackfalds AB.

Jordyn Boyd opened the scoring for Manitoba 6:38 into the 1st frame, and Brayden Cuthbert added a marker late in the period to give Manitoba a 2-0 lead after 1 period of play.

The second period saw Saskatchewan bounce back with Jared Iron scoring a power play marker 9:53 into the second period. Manitoba regained a two goal advantage with two quick goals 1minute and 3 seconds apart. Sutton Olson scored his first goal of the tournament unassisted and Brendan Leipsic capped off his player of the game performance with a goal 1minute and 3 seconds later.

Saskatchewan scored the only goal of the third period when Tyler Balog scored with only 17 seconds left in the game.
Manitoba will take on Team BC at 4:00pm at Blackfalds multiplex on Friday. Team Saskatchewan will meet Team Alberta at 7:00 in Game two of the Friday night Double header.

Game 2: Team Alberta 6 - Team BC 4

A 3 assist effort from BC defenseman Morgan Rielly was not enough as Team Alberta Defeated Team BC 6-4 in the back half of a Thursday night double header at the Blackfalds Multiplex. A large crowd was on hand as Delegates from Blackfalds, the WHL and each of the 4 western branches officially kicked of the U-16 Western Canada Challenge Cup before the game.
Alberta held a 2-1 lead after the first period on Goals from player of the game Branden Troock and Tyrell Goulbourne. BC’s loan marker in the 1st period was on the power play off the stick of Morgan Zulinick.

The second period saw both teams score twice to keep the game at a one goal affair. Austin Plevy scored in 2:17 into the period to tie the game at 2. Alberta responded with back to back even strength goals from Mike Winther and Zane Jones respectively. Team BC scored a late period marker at 19:17 on the power play as Griffin Reinhardt potted his first of the tournament.

The third period saw team Alberta pull away with two goals from Brandon Magee and Jayden Hart to give them a 6-3 lead. Team BC player Turner Popoff scored at 13:39 in the third but it wasn’t enough as Team Alberta won 6-4 in a very spirited, tight checking affair.
BC takes on Manitoba in their second game on Friday afternoon at 4:00, while Alberta faces their Eastern Neighbor Saskatchewan at 7:00 on Friday.

(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Friday, October 30, 2009

WHL Friday Match-ups

Press Release

LANCE BOUMA AND THE VANCOUVER GIANTS HOST BRANDON KOZUN AND THE CALGARY HITMEN – Lance Bouma and the Vancouver Giants (10-3-1-2) host Brandon Kozun and the Calgary Hitmen (12-4-0-0) for a battle between division leaders in Western Hockey League action on Friday, October 30th.

The Giants are coming off a three-games-in-three-nights weekend last week, earning a 2-0-1 record in that stretch, and currently hold a five-point lead atop the B.C. Division. The Giants are 2-0 versus Central Division teams this season, having beaten both Lethbridge and Medicine Hat already. Bouma, a Calgary Flames prospect, has 13 points this season (3g, 10a).

The Hitmen fell 4-1 in Kelowna to the Rockets on Wednesday night, snapping their five-game winning streak, but remain four points clear for first place in the Central Division. Wednesday’s loss was only Calgary’s second road defeat this season, dropping their road record to 8-2. Kozun (8g, 20a) leads the WHL in scoring with 28 points.

It’s the first of two meetings between the Giants and Hitmen this season. Calgary won both meetings versus Vancouver last season, including a 4-0 triumph in Vancouver on March 6th.

Elsewhere on Friday, Travis Hamonic and the Moose Jaw Warriors (10-5-0-0) host Cody Eakin and the Swift Current Broncos (9-6-0-1).

The Warriors have been idle since dropping a 5-4 decision in Lethbridge last Sunday, snapping a five-game winning streak, and currently sit tied with Brandon for second place in the East Division. The Warriors are an impressive 7-1 on home ice this season.

The Broncos are coming off Sunday’s 5-2 loss in Regina to the Pats that snapped a three-game winning streak, and currently sit one point back of the Warriors for a share of second place in the division. Eakin leads all WHL players with 15 goals this season.

In Lethbridge, AB, Carter Ashton and the Hurricanes (5-9-2-0) host Charles Wells and the Seattle Thunderbirds (3-10-0-2) on Friday.

The Hurricanes ended a three-game losing skid with last Sunday’s 5-4 win over the visiting Warriors, and currently sit in fifth place in the Central Division. The ‘Canes may have veteran defenseman Luca Sbisa back in the lineup on Friday after he was returned from the NHL’s Anaheim Ducks.

The Thunderbirds dropped a 7-1 decision in Edmonton on Wednesday for their fourth straight setback, and remain in fifth place in the U.S. Division. The T-Birds are 0-6-0-1 on the road this season.

In Prince George, B.C., Alex Rodgers and the Cougars (3-10-0-0) welcome Brendan Shinnimin and the Tri-City Americans (11-3-0-0) on Friday for the first of two weekend meetings between the teams.

The Cougars snapped an eight-game losing streak with a 5-4 shootout victory over the visiting Chilliwack Bruins on Saturday, but remain in fifth place in the B.C. Division. The Cougars have been outscored 67-29 this season.

The Americans had their nine-game winning streak halted with a 5-2 defeat in Chilliwack on Wednesday, and currently sit two points back of Portland for first place in the U.S. Division. The Americans are 5-3 on the road this season.

Willie Coetzee and the Red Deer Rebels (7-8-0-0) host Emerson Etem and the Medicine Hat Tigers (8-5-2-2) for a Central Division match-up on Friday.

The Rebels earned a 4-3 shootout win over the visiting Seattle Thunderbirds on Tuesday, snapping a two-game losing streak, and currently sit in fourth place in the Central Division. Coetzee has racked up seven goals and 22 points on his current 10-game point streak.

The Tigers are coming off a 6-0 loss in Prince Albert on Wednesday after dropping a 7-2 decision in Saskatoon the previous night, but remain in second place in the Central Division. Etem ranks second on the Tigers with 12 goals this season.

Derek Hulak and the Saskatoon Blades (10-3-0-2) host Brett Breitkreuz and the Edmonton Oil Kings (7-8-0-2) on Friday.

The Blades defeated the visiting Medicine Hat Tigers 7-2 on Tuesday night for their second win in a row and their eighth victory in nine games, and currently sit in first place in the East Division. The Blades own the WHL’s second-ranked penalty killing unit, currently operating at 88.7 per cent efficiency.

The Oil Kings snapped a four-game losing skid with a 7-1 win over the visiting Seattle Thunderbirds on Wednesday, and currently sit in third place in the Central Division. Breitkreuz scored twice in Wednesday’s win, giving him three goals in his last three outings.

C.J. Stretch and the Kamloops Blazers (8-7-2-0) host Kevin Sundher and the Chilliwack Bruins (5-6-1-3) for a B.C. Division match-up on Friday.

The Blazers have been idle since suffering a 4-1 defeat in Saskatoon on Saturday for their fifth straight loss, and currently sit in second place in the B.C. Division. The Blazers parted ways with head coach Barry Smith on Monday.

The Bruins are coming off Wednesday’s 5-2 win over the visiting Tri-City Americans for their second victory in three games, and currently sit in fourth spot in the division. Sundher has at least one point in eight straight games.

Stepan Novotny and the Kelowna Rockets (8-6-1-0) welcome Kyle Beach and the Spokane Chiefs (5-5-1-0) on Friday.

The Rockets defeated the visiting Calgary Hitmen 4-1 on Wednesday for their second win in three outings, and currently sit in third place in the B.C. Division. The Rockets are 6-2-1 at home this season.

The Chiefs fell 5-4 to the visiting Brandon Wheat Kings on Wednesday for their third setback in their last four games, and currently sit in fourth place in the U.S. Division. Beach scored three goals in Wednesday’s loss.

Steele Boomer and the Kootenay Ice (5-11-0-0) host Brayden Schenn and the Brandon Wheat Kings (9-6-0-2) on Friday night.

The Ice dropped a 4-1 decision to the visiting Everett Silvertips on Wednesday for their fourth straight defeat, and currently sit in sixth place in the Central Division. Boomer (5g-11a) leads the Ice in scoring with 16 points.

The Wheat Kings edged the Spokane Chiefs 5-4 on Wednesday night for their third win in four games, and currently share second place in the East Division with the Moose Jaw Warriors. Schenn scored twice, including the game-winner, in Wednesday’s victory in Spokane.

In Prince Albert, SK, Dustin Cameron and the Raiders (8-8-0-0) host Jordan Weal and the Regina Pats (6-8-2-0) for an East Division match-up.

The Raiders picked up their third straight victory with a 6-0 shutout win over the visiting Medicine Hat Tigers on Wednesday, but remain in fifth place in the East Division. The Raiders are 7-2 at home this season.

The Pats are coming off a 5-2 win over the visiting Swift Current Broncos last Sunday, snapping a three-game losing skid, and currently sit in sixth place in the division. The Pats have just one road win this season.


(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

QMJHL, teams to march alongside Veterans' Week

Press Release

BOUCHERVILLE, Thursday, October 29, 2009 – The Commissioner of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League, Gilles Courteau, today announced that the League and its member teams are extremely proud to once again take part in Veterans’ Week activities, which will take place in several arenas from November 5 to 11. The grand opening will be held in Victoriaville on Friday, October 30.

"The Quebec Major Junior Hockey League is very proud to have the opportunity to underline Veterans’ Week alongside our Veterans for a fifth consecutive year," said the Commissioner. "Our Veterans’ heritage is rich in pride and history and we feel that it is very important to remember the sacrifices they have made for our great Country. The Memorial Cup, which is awarded since 1919, pays tribute to the Veterans of the First World War. In keeping with the tradition of the Memorial Cup, it is of the utmost importance that we remember their legacy and share it with future generations."

Puck-drop ceremonies to honour our Veterans will be held during these QMJHL games. Veterans will be on hand to partake in the presentations.

Friday, October 30

Colisée Desjardins – Victoriaville (During the ceremonial face-off, a commemorative video tribute of Veterans’ Week will be launched in conjunction with the Provincial Poppy Campaign).

Sunday, November 1

Centre Henry-Léonard – Baie-Comeau

Wednesday, November 4

Centre Marcel-Dionne – Drummondville

Thursday, November 5

Centre Robert-Guertin - Gatineau

Friday, November 6

Centre Bionest – Shawinigan
Moncton Coliseum - Moncton
Metro Centre – Halifax

Saturday, November 7

Colisée Pepsi – Québec

Sunday, November 8

Centre 200 – Cape Breton
Harbour Station – Saint John
Verdun Auditorium - Montreal

Tuesday, November 10

Colisée de Rimouski – Rimouski
K.C. Irving Regional Centre – Acadie-Bathurst

Wednesday, November 11

Centre air Creebec – Val-d’Or

Thursday, November 12

Charlottetown Civic Centre – P.E.I.

Friday, November 13

Centre Georges-Vézina - Chicoutimi

Saturday, November 14

Dave-Keon Arena – Rouyn-Noranda

Every year, from November 5 to 11, Canadians celebrate Veterans’ Week to pay tribute to all those who have sacrificed themselves in order to make our world a safer place to live. With the help of young Canadians, we can ensure that the sacrifices and achievements of the men and women who have served our country will not fade from memory. This year, Canadians are invited to continue the traditions of Remembrance under the theme "How Will You Remember?" For more information, visit www.vac-acc.gc.ca.


(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Two to UNO

Press Release

The Waterloo Black Hawks announced that defenseman Tony Turgeon has committed to the University of Nebraska at Omaha and the Fargo Force announced that forward Johnnie Searfoss will also attend the school following his USHL career.

They are the second and third players to commit to the University of Nebraska at Omaha this week after Cedar Rapids RoughRiders defenseman Bryce Aneloski also selected the school.

Turgeon is in his first USHL season and is the tenth Black Hawks player this season to commit to a NCAA Division I school. The 20-year-old native of Grand Forks, North Dakota currently ranks second in the League with 36 penalty minutes through six games.

"Tony is the kind of player any coach would want to have on their team," said Waterloo Black Hawks Head Coach P.K. O'Handley. "Not only is his physical style of play well suited to the WCHA, but as a coach, when you challenge him, he rises to the occasion."

Searfoss is in his second season with the Fargo Force and currently ranks tied for second in team scoring with six points (4g, 2a). The native of Colleyville, Texas has a goal in four straight games and three of those have been game-winners, which leads the USHL.

The 19-year-old forward played all 60 games last season scoring 34 points (15g, 19a). He added four points (2g, 2a) in 10 playoff contests as the Force advanced to the Clark Cup Finals. Searfoss was originally committed to the University of Maine, but at the University of Nebraska at Omaha, he will be reunited with head coach Dean Blais, who was the USHL Coach of the Year after guiding the Fargo Force during the 2008-09 campaign.

Four other current USHL players are committed to attend the University of Nebraska at Omaha; Brian O'Rourke (Green Bay Gamblers), Nick Oddo (Omaha Lancers), Matt White (Omaha Lancers), and Patrick Borer (Sioux City Musketeers).

The University of Nebraska at Omaha Mavericks have an impressive 19 former USHL players on their roster for the 2009-10 season; Matt Smith (Indiana Ice), Kyle Ensign (Tri-City Storm), Pasko Skarica (Waterloo Black Hawks), Eddie DeGrosso (Indiana Ice), Jake Skjodt (Indiana Ice), Rich Purslow (Des Moines Buccaneers), Mike Phillippi (Indiana Ice), J.J. Koehler (Lincoln Stars), Jordan Willert (Tri-City Storm), Terry Broadhurst (Sioux Falls Stampede), Nick Fanto (Omaha Lancers), Ryan Kretzer (Lincoln Stars), Brandon Richardson (Indiana Ice), Mark Bernier (Tri-City Storm), Eric Olimb (Indiana Ice), John Kemp (Indiana Ice), Brent Gwidt (Indiana Ice), Alex Hudson (Tri-City Storm), and Matt Ambroz (Tri-City Storm).

Mavericks Associate Head Coach Mike Hastings is the USHL's all-time leader in coaching victories (529) after guiding the Omaha Lancers for 14 seasons (1994-2008). Assistant Coach Nick Fohr was a player for the Lincoln Stars for two seasons (1996-98)

(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Thursday, October 29, 2009

WHL's Roster

Press Release

CALGARY, AB – The Canadian Hockey League in association with the Western Hockey League and SUBWAY® today announced the rosters for Team WHL competing in the 2009 SUBWAY® Super Series.

The 2009 SUBWAY® Super Series will take place November 16 – 26 and marks the seventh straight year that teams of CHL All-Stars have competed against Team Russia in preparation for the World Junior Hockey Championships. The SUBWAY® Super Series is an integral part of the evaluation process prior to Team Canada’s final selection camp in December. This season, Canada will be competing for a record sixth straight gold medal at the 2010 tournament in Saskatoon and Regina, SK.
Team WHL will face Team Russia in games five and six of the series played Wednesday, November 25 in Victoria, BC, and on Thursday, November 26 in Kelowna, BC. The first two games of the series are hosted by the QMJHL with the OHL hosting games three and four.

Team WHL was selected by a special committee of WHL General Managers along with Al Murray, Hockey Canada’s Head Scout for the Canadian National Junior Team, as part of the selection process for the 2010 World Junior Hockey Championships.

“The WHL is fortunate to have so many good players to choose from for the SUBWAY® Super Series,” commented Willie Desjardins of the Medicine Hat Tigers, who will coach Team WHL and serve as Head Coach for Team Canada. “This is a great opportunity for our players to compete against a very talented Russian team and showcase themselves to Hockey Canada for future International events.”

The complete Team WHL roster consists of 33 players – two goalies, 10 defenceman and 21 forwards. Top NHL prospects for the 2010 NHL Entry Draft, including Brett Connolly (PG), Curtis Hamilton (SAS), Quinton Howden (MJ), Calvin Pickard (SEA) and Mark Pysyk (EDM), will compete in the series along with four first round draft picks from the 2009 NHL Entry, Brayden Schenn (BDN), Scott Glennie (BDN), Jared Cowen (SPO) and Carter Ashton (LET). Forward Jordan Eberle (REG) and defenceman Colten Teubert (REG) represent returning players from Team Canada’s 2009 gold medal winning team and both were selected in the first round of the 2008 NHL Entry Draft.

The two WHL games will be hosted in the province of British Columbia on Wednesday, November 25th in Victoria, BC and Thursday, November 26th in Kelowna, BC. Game tickets are available at Kelowna’s Prospera Place Box Office (250-762-5050) and at Victoria’s Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre Box Office (250-220-7777) or visit www.selectyourtickets.com .

Team WHL Roster – Victoria, BC – November 25, 2009
*Players competing in both games

Forwards (12): Year: Club: Hometown:
Glennie, Scott (91) Brandon Winnipeg, MB
Schenn, Brayden (91) Brandon Saskatoon, SK
Raedeke, Brent * (90) Edmonton Regina, SK
Froese, Byron (91) Everett Winkler, MB
Hamilton, Wacey* (90) Medicine Hat Cochrane, AB
Vey, Linden* (91) Medicine Hat Wakaw, SK
Eberle, Jordan (90) Regina Regina, SK
Koper, Levko (90) Spokane Edmonton, AB
Dowling, Justin (90) Swift Current Cochrane, AB
Eakin, Cody (91) Swift Current Winnipeg, MB
Shinnimin, Brendan (91) Tri-City Winnipeg, MB
Bouma, Lance (90) Vancouver Provost, AB

Defence (6): Club: Hometown:
Robak, Colby (90) Brandon Gilbert Plains, MB
Pysyk, Mark* (92) Edmonton Sherwood Park, AB
Barrie, Tyson* (91) Kelowna Victoria, BC
Ponich, Brett (91) Portland Beaumont, AB
Teubert, Colten (90) Regina White Rock, BC
Cowen, Jared (91) Spokane Allan, SK

Goaltenders (2): Club: Hometown:
Jones, Martin* (90) Calgary Vancouver, BC
Pickard, Calvin* (92) Seattle Winnipeg, MB

Team WHL Roster – Kelowna, BC – November 26, 2009

Forwards (12): Year: Club: Hometown:
Kozun, Brandon (90) Calgary Calgary, AB
Raedeke, Brent * (90) Edmonton Regina, SK
Shattock, Tyler (90) Kamloops Salmon Arm, BC
McMillan, Brandon (90) Kelowna Delta, BC
Ashton, Carter (91) Lethbridge Saskatoon, SK
Hamilton, Wacey* (90) Medicine Hat Cochrane, AB
Vey, Linden* (91) Medicine Hat Wakaw, SK
Howden, Quinton (92) Moose Jaw Oakbank, MB
Connolly, Brett (92) Prince George Prince George, BC
Coetzee, Willie (90) Red Deer Maple Ridge, BC
Hamilton, Curtis (91) Saskatoon Kelowna, BC
Cunningham, Craig (90) Vancouver Trail, BC

Defence (6): Club: Hometown:
Stone, Michael (90) Calgary Winnipeg, MB
Pysyk, Mark* (92) Edmonton Sherwood Park, AB
Barrie, Tyson* (91) Kelowna Victoria, BC
McNabb, Brayden (91) Kootenay Davidson, SK
Hamonic, Travis (90) Moose Jaw St. Malo, MB
Elliott, Stefan (91) Saskatoon Vancouver, BC

Goaltenders (2): Club: Hometown:
Jones, Martin* (90) Calgary Vancouver, BC
Pickard, Calvin* (92) Seattle Winnipeg, MB


(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Hudson Stremmel to Prince George

Press Release

Prince George, BC – Prince George Cougars General Manager Dallas Thompson announced Tuesday the Cougars have added 18-year old goaltender Hudson Stremmel to the roster.

Stremmel, who hails from Reno, Nevada, comes to the Cougars after starting the 2009-10 season with the NCAA Division 1 Colorado College Tigers of the Western Collegiate Hockey Association. Last year, Stremmel played for the Chicago Steel of the United States Hockey League, going 18-14-1-2 with a goals against average of 3.19 and an .895 save percentage.

“It’s really exciting and is a great opportunity for me. The people in the organization seem really great. It’s just really exciting.” Said Stremmel, a 2006 Bantam Draft pick of the Chilliwack Bruins. “I’m looking forward to getting some playing time and it just seems like a great fit for me."

(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

The QMJHL names its Scholastic Players of the Month

Press Release

BOUCHERVILLE, Tuesday, March 27, 2009 – Team academic consultants from around the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League today released the names of the scholastic players of the month for September.

This initiative’s goal, which was developed by the QMJHL and its member clubs, is to recognize student athletes’ performances both on the ice and in the classroom.

Here is the listing of this month’s award winners.

Acadie-Bathurst – Julien Tremblay
Baie-Comeau – Guillaume Goulet
Cape Breton – Myles Micallef
Chicoutimi – Pierre-Karl Marion
Drummondville – Philippe Bergeron
Gatineau – Vincent Barnard
Halifax – Alex Lemieux
Lewiston – Michael Chaput
Moncton – Matthew Bissonnette
Montreal – Guillaume Asselin
P.E.I. – Jérémi Janneteau
Quebec – Jean-Philippe Gagnon
Rimouski – Charles-Antoine Roy
Rouyn-Noranda – Jérôme Raymond
Saint John – Steven Anthony
Shawinigan – Michaël Bournival
Val-d’Or – Matthieu Thériault
Victoriaville – Olivier Jannard

For more details, please click on the link below.

Scholastic Players of the Month - September

(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Wednesday, October 28, 2009

Hall CHL Player of the Week

Press Release

Toronto, ON – The Canadian Hockey League today announced that forward Taylor Hall of the Windsor Spitfires is the CHL Player of the Week for the week ending October 25. Hall finished the week with 10 points including six goals and four assists with a plus-minus rating of plus-7 in three games played.

Hall scored four points and was named first star of the game in back-to-back nights beginning on Thursday when he recorded two goals and two assists in a 5-2 win over the London Knights. One of his goals was a shorthanded marker, and one of his assists set up the game-winner. On Friday he scored his second hat-trick of the season plus an assist in an 8-4 win over the Owen Sound Attack. Hall finished his week on Sunday by scoring a power play goal and adding one assist in a 6-1 win over the Belleville Bulls as third star of the game. The win was the sixth straight for the Spitfires.

Hall, a 17-year-old from Kingston, ON, is playing in his third season with the Spitfires. He currently leads the OHL in scoring with 34 points including 16 goals and 18 assists in 16 games. Hall is eligible for the 2010 NHL Entry Draft and was recently named to the Team OHL roster for the 2009 Subway Super Series.

Defenceman Charles-Olivier Roussel of the Shawinigan Cataractes was the QMJHL nominee for the award this week for scoring two goals with five assists for seven points in four games. WHL scoring leader Brandon Kozun of the Calgary Hitmen was also nominated for scoring three goals and six assists for nine points in four games.

2009-10 CHL Players of the Week
Oct. 19 – 25: Taylor Hall, Windsor Spitfires
Oct. 12 – 18: Mark Isherwood, Medicine Hat Tigers
Oct. 5 – 11: Jason Bast, Moose Jaw Warriors
Sept. 28 – Oct. 4: Jordan Weal, Regina Pats
Sept. 21 – 27: Jonathan Hazen, Val-d’Or Foreurs
Sept. 14 – 20: Luke Pither, Barrie Colts


(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Hackett Goalie of the Week

Press Release

Toronto, ON – The Canadian Hockey League today announced that Matt Hackett of the Plymouth Whalers is the CHL Goaltender of the Week for the week ending October 25. Hackett won both of his starts recording one shutout and posting a goals-against-average of .500 and save percentage of .987.

Hackett began his week in dramatic fashion stopping all 42 shots fired his way Friday night in a 2-0 win over one of the OHL’s top teams the Kitchener Rangers. The shutout was his first of the season and earned him first star of the game honours following a third period where he stopped 14 shots while facing four Rangers’ power play opportunities. On Saturday night he faced another 35 shots making 34 saves including 16 in the third period as second star of the 6-1 win over the Belleville Bulls.

Hackett, a 19-year-old from London, ON, is playing in his third full OHL season and second with the Whalers. In 12 games this season he has a 7-5-0-0 record with a 2.63 goals-against-average and .921 save percentage with one shutout. Selected by the Minnesota Wild in the third round of the 2009 NHL Entry Draft, Hackett was the recipient of this award two times last season and was recently named to the Team OHL roster for the 2009 Subway Super Series.

Also considered for the award this week was Jeff Bosch of the Moose Jaw Warriors. He allowed just one goal in two wins earning a shutout victory with 18 saves as third star of the game Saturday in a 1-0 win over the Kootenay Ice. Kevin Poulin of the Victoriaville Tigres was also strongly considered following his week that included two wins with a shutout victory while posting a goals-against-average of .500 and save percentage of .980.

2009-10 CHL Goaltenders of the Week
Oct. 19 – 25: Matt Hackett, Plymouth Whalers
Oct. 12 – 18: Troy Passingham, Windsor Spitfires
Oct. 5 – 11: Christopher Gibson, Chicoutimi Saguenéens
Sept. 28 – Oct. 4: Mark Visentin, Niagara IceDogs
Sept. 21-27: Andrew Hayes, Brandon Wheat Kings
Sept. 14-20: Maxime Clermont, Gatineau Olympiques


(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

BMO Rankings

Press Release

Toronto, ON – The Canadian Hockey League today announced the BMO CHL MasterCard Top 10 Rankings for week seven of the 2009-10 season. The weekly rankings of the Canadian Hockey League’s Top 10 teams are selected by a panel of National Hockey League scouts.

BMO CHL MasterCard Top 10 Rankings – Week 7

Rank Team (Record) Last Week Rank Number of Weeks Ranked
1 Calgary Hitmen (12-3-0-0) 2 7
2 Drummondville Voltigeurs (13-2-0-1) 1 6
3 Windsor Spitfires (12-3-0-1) 3 7
4 Kitchener Rangers (9-1-1-2) 5 3
5 Tri-City Americans (11-2-0-0) 10 2
6 Gatineau Olympiques (12-4-0-0) 4 6
7 Saint John Sea Dogs (13-4-1-0) - 4
8 London Knights (10-4-0-0) 6 6
9 Vancouver Giants (10-3-1-2) 8 3
10 Mississauga St. Michael's Majors (10-3-0-0) - 4

Honourable Mention:
Quebec Remparts (11-3-2-1) 9 4
Saskatoon Blades (10-3-0-2) - 3
Barrie Colts (9-4-0-1)

(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Belarus' Roster for the WJAC

Press Release

# Player Ht Wt Birthdate Team
Goaltender

Stanislau Artynski 6'0 165 12/03/1990HC Younost

Aliaksandr Baradulia 5'9 171 10/06/1991HC Younost

Dzmitry Volkau 6'1 182 07/07/1990HC Khimvolokno
Defence

Siarhei Bahaleisha 6'0 178 02/20/1990HC Neman

Valeri Bojarskih 6'0 196 03/13/1990HC Younost

Dzianis Hrybko 5'8 182 06/19/1990HC Younost

Mikhail Kharamanda 5'8 174 10/07/1991HC Gomel

Evgeniy Nagachev 5'9 198 08/31/1991HC Shakhter

Viachaslau Raitsou 5'7 165 03/29/1990HC Khimvolokno

Aliaksei Sardovik 6'1 182 06/23/1990HC Khimik

Siarhei Sheleh 6'5 218 05/24/1990HC Younost

Kanstantin Zholudzeu 6'4 187 05/09/1990HC Khimik
Forward

Kiryl Brykun 5'7 181 09/17/1990HC Metallurg

Siarhei Drozd 6'0 180 04/14/1990Tri-City/WHL

Aliaksandr Famin 5'9 184 11/12/1990Val-d'Or/QMJHL

Mikita Feaktsistau 6'1 203 06/23/1990HC Neman

Aliaksandr Kachan 6'3 196 10/11/1990HC Gomel

Siarhei Karolik 6'4 192 03/07/1990HC Younost

Viacheslau Makritski 6'3 198 01/15/1991HC Shinnik

Siarhei Maliauka 5'8 143 09/28/1990HC Neman

Raman Malinouski 5'7 176 06/09/1991HC Khimik

Nikita Remezov 5'7 163 07/28/1990HC Neman

Ilya Silik 6'1 182 07/31/1991St-Jérôme/LHAAAQ

Aliaksandr Siomachkin 6'1 181 03/21/1990HC Keramin

Siarhei Stas 6'1 198 07/13/1990HC Shinnik

Mikalai Susla 6'1 176 03/04/1991HC Gomel


(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Dame-Malka suspended four games

Press Release

BOUCHERVILLE, Monday, October 26, 2009 – The Quebec Major Junior Hockey League Disciplinary Prefect today announced that Acadie-Bathurst defenseman Olivier Dame-Malka has been suspended for four games for cross-checking an opponent on the head. The incident occurred during yesterday's game against the Sea Dogs.

The decision was rendered after reviewing the videotape of the incident and after consulting all concerned parties.

In accordance with the QMJHL policy in the matter of disciplinary sanctions, the Disciplinary Prefect will not be available for further comment.

(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

The QMJHL rejects Remparts’ complaint

Press Release

BOUCHERVILLE, Tuesday, October 27, 2009 – The formal complaint which was brought to the attention of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League by the Quebec Remparts organization over the week-end regarding comments made by Chicoutimi Saguenéens head coach Richard Martel towards forward Danick Paquette has been rejected.

The Commissioner of the QMJHL, Gilles Courteau, indicated that the comments could not be construed as defamatory. "Insults, physical or mental threats or any other gesture used to ridicule opponents will never be considered as acceptable even if such conduct signals frustrations which can appear to be legitimate. The QMJHL created an antidiscrimination policy in which severe disciplinary sanctions are included to prevent disrespectful behaviour. In this case, I believe that although the comments which were made are regrettable, they cannot be interpreted as defamatory in any way, shape or form."

In accordance with the QMJHL policy in the matter of disciplinary sanctions, the Commissioner will not be available for further comment.

(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Aneloski Commits to Nebraska Omaha

Press Release

The Cedar Rapids RoughRiders announced that defenseman Bryce Aneloski has committed to the University of Nebraska at Omaha and will attend the school following his USHL career.

The announcement caps a big week for the 19-year-old native of Pekin, Illinois as he was named the CCM Defensive Player of the Week on Monday. Aneloski recorded the League's first hat trick of the season in Saturday's 7-2 win vs. Team USA while also collecting three assists for a six-point night. All three of his goals were scored on the power play which ties a USHL record for power play goals in a game by one player. The defenseman is currently tied for the USHL scoring lead with 15 points (6g, 9a) in eight games played this season.

Aneloski has played 105 games over parts of three seasons in the USHL recording 47 points (18g, 29a). He has also appeared in eight playoff contests.

"I am proud of Bryce and all that he has accomplished with us so far this season," said Mark Carlson, RoughRiders head coach and general manager. "UNO will be lucky to have a player like him who is good, solid, and reliable defensively, but also has the ability to chip in offensively."

Four other current USHL players are committed to attend the University of Nebraska at Omaha; Brian O'Rourke (Green Bay Gamblers), Nick Oddo (Omaha Lancers), Matt White (Omaha Lancers), and Patrick Borer (Sioux City Musketeers).

The University of Nebraska at Omaha Mavericks have an impressive 19 former USHL players on their roster for the 2009-10 season; Matt Smith (Indiana Ice), Kyle Ensign (Tri-City Storm), Pasko Skarica (Waterloo Black Hawks), Eddie DeGrosso (Indiana Ice), Jake Skjodt (Indiana Ice), Rich Purslow (Des Moines Buccaneers), Mike Phillippi (Indiana Ice), J.J. Koehler (Lincoln Stars), Jordan Willert (Tri-City Storm), Terry Broadhurst (Sioux Falls Stampede), Nick Fanto (Omaha Lancers), Ryan Kretzer (Lincoln Stars), Brandon Richardson (Indiana Ice), Mark Bernier (Tri-City Storm), Eric Olimb (Indiana Ice), John Kemp (Indiana Ice), Brent Gwidt (Indiana Ice), Alex Hudson (Tri-City Storm), and Matt Ambroz (Tri-City Storm).

The Mavericks are coached by Dean Blais, who was the 2008-09 USHL Coach of the Year leading the Fargo Force to the Clark Cup Finals during their inaugural season. Associate Head Coach Mike Hastings is the USHL's all-time leader in coaching victories (529) after guiding the Omaha Lancers for 14 seasons (1994-2008). Assistant Coach Nick Fohr was a player for the Lincoln Stars for two seasons (1996-98)

(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

OHL Roster for the Subway Series

Press Release

Tuesday October 27, 2009 (Barrie, ON) – The Canadian Hockey League in association with the Ontario Hockey League, the Barrie Colts Hockey Club, and SUBWAY® today held a media conference to announce the rosters for Team OHL competing in the 2009 SUBWAY® Super Series.

Team OHL will faceoff against Team Russia in games three and four of the series played Thursday November 19 in Barrie, ON, and on Monday November 23 in Windsor, ON. The first two games of the series are hosted by the QMJHL with the WHL hosting games five and six.

The Team OHL rosters were chosen by a selection committee that includes Al Murray, Head Scout of Canada’s Men’s National Teams, with OHL General Managers Jeff Twohey of the Peterborough Petes and Mark Hunter of the London Knights.

The 2009 SUBWAY® Super Series marks the seventh straight year that teams of CHL All-Stars have competed against Team Russia in preparation for the World Junior Hockey Championships. The SUBWAY® Super Series is an integral part of the evaluation process prior to Team Canada’s final selection camp in December. This season, Canada will be competing for a record sixth straight gold medal at the 2010 tournament in Saskatoon and Regina, SK.

“The players selected to play for Team OHL in the SUBWAY® Super Series have the chance to make a statement about playing for Team Canada at the World Junior Championships this season” said Dave Cameron of the Mississauga St. Michael’s Majors, who will coach Team OHL and serve as an Associate Coach for Team Canada. “The pressures of this game against a talented Russian team will be a great opportunity for these players.”

The rosters consist of 33 players, nine of which are top prospects eligible for the 2010 NHL Entry Draft including OHL scoring leaders Taylor Hall of the Windsor Spitfires and Tyler Seguin of the Plymouth Whalers. Forward Stefan Della Rovere of the Barrie Colts and defenceman Ryan Ellis of the Windsor Spitfires represent the returning players from Team Canada’s 2009 gold medal winning team. In addition to Ellis, the rosters include 2009 first round selections Nazem Kadri of the London Knights, Calvin de Haan of the Oshawa Generals, Zack Kassian of the Peterborough Petes, and Peter Holland of the Guelph Storm. The rosters also include Tyler Cuma of the Ottawa 67’s and Greg Nemisz of the Windsor Spitfires who were both first round selections in the 2008 NHL Entry Draft.

The 2009 SUBWAY® Super Series is supported by associate sponsors, Bank of Montreal, NeilMed and CCM. All games will be broadcast nationally on Rogers Sportsnet with the QMJHL games shown on RDS.

For more information about the event and tickets please visit www.subwaysuperseries.com

Team OHL Roster – Barrie, ON – November 19, 2009

*Players competing in both games

Goal:
Peter Di Salvo, Barrie Colts
Michael Hutchinson, London Knights*

Defence:
Shawn Lalonde, Belleville Bulls*
Stephen Silas, Belleville Bulls
Matt Clark, Brampton Battalion
Erik Gudbranson, Kingston Frontenacs*
Calvin de Haan, Oshawa Generals*
Tyler Cuma, Ottawa 67’s
Mark Cundari, Windsor Spitfires
Ryan Ellis, Windsor Spitfires*

Forwards:
Stefan Della Rovere, Barrie Colts*
Peter Holland, Guelph Storm
Michael Latta, Guelph Storm
Ethan Werek, Kingston Frontenacs
Jeff Skinner, Kitchener Rangers
Nazem Kadri, London Knights*
Christian Thomas, Oshawa Generals
Tyler Toffoli, Ottawa 67’s*
Steven Shipley, Owen Sound Attack
Taylor Hall, Windsor Spitfires*
Adam Henrique, Windsor Spitfires*
Greg Nemisz, Windsor Spitfires*

Staff:
Dave Cameron, Coach (Mississauga St. Michael’s Majors)
Steve Spott, Coach (Kitchener Rangers)
Marty Williamson, Assistant Coach (Barrie Colts)
Richard Rotenberg, Head Athletic Therapist (Barrie Colts)
Kevin Emo, Equipment Manager (Barrie Colts)

Team OHL Roster – Windsor, ON – November 23, 2009

Goal:
Michael Hutchinson, London Knights*
Matt Hackett, Plymouth Whalers

Defence:
Shawn Lalonde, Belleville Bulls*
Erik Gudbranson, Kingston Frontenacs*
Cameron Gaunce, Mississauga St. Michael’s Majors
Calvin de Haan, Oshawa Generals*
T.J Brodie, Saginaw Spirit
Nick Crawford, Saginaw Spirit
Ryan Ellis, Windsor Spitfires*

Forwards:
Stefan Della Rovere, Barrie Colts*
Jason Akeson, Kitchener Rangers
Nazem Kadri, London Knights*
Zac Rinaldo, London Knights
Tyler Toffoli, Ottawa 67’s*
Zack Kassian, Peterborough Petes
Josh Brittain, Plymouth Whalers
Tyler Seguin, Plymouth Whalers
John McFarland, Sudbury Wolves
Eric O’Dell, Sudbury Wolves
Taylor Hall, Windsor Spitfires*
Adam Henrique, Windsor Spitfires*
Greg Nemisz, Windsor Spitfires*

Staff:
Dave Cameron, Coach (Mississauga St. Michael’s Majors)
Steve Spott, Coach (Kitchener Rangers)
Bob Boughner, Assistant Coach (Windsor Spitfires)
Joey Garland, Trainer (Windsor Spitfires)
Tyson Tatomir, Equipment Manager (Windsor Spitfires)

(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Russia's Roster for the WJAC

# Player Ht Wt Birthdate Team
Goaltender
1 Sergey Kostenko 5'11 170 09/17/1992Metallurg Novokuznetsk
20 Kirill Brashkin 5'10 183 05/22/1992Lada Togliatti
30 Pavel Suchkov 5'10 168 11/21/1992CSKA Moscow
Defence
2 Jan Krasovskiy 6'1 234 02/29/1992Lokomotiv Yaroslavl
3 Ivan Gavrilenko 6'0 177 06/05/1992Metallurg Magnitogorsk
4 Viktor Antipin 5'9 146 12/06/1992Metallurg Magnitogorsk
5 Alexey Marchenko 6'2 181 01/02/1991CSKA Moscow
6 Maxim Tomkin 6'0 179 03/14/1992Lada Togliatti
7 Efim Gurkin 6'0 166 11/13/1992Salavat Yulaev Ufa
11 Artur Amirov 5'10 155 04/03/1992Lokomotiv Yaroslavl
21 Vitaly Zotov 6'1 161 04/01/1992Lokomotiv Yaroslavl
26 Zakhar Arzamastsev 6'0 179 11/06/1992Metallurg Novokuznetsk
29 Ildar Isangulov 6'3 225 05/20/1992Salavat Yulaev Ufa
Forward
8 Vladislav Namestnikov 6'0 159 11/22/1992Khimik Voskresensk
9 Vladislav Kartaev 6'2 159 02/10/1992Salavat Yulaev Ufa
10 Nail Yakupov 5'11 168 10/06/1993Neftekhimik Nizhnekamsk
12 Gleb Zyryanov 6'4 186 04/16/1992Torpedo N. Novgorod
13 Roman Lyubimov 6'2 190 06/01/1992CSKA Moscow
14 Daniil Apalkov 5'11 177 01/01/1992Metallurg Magnitogorsk
15 Pavel Kulikov 6'0 164 01/14/1992Neftekhimik Nizhnekamsk
16 Ignat Zemchenko 6'2 172 04/24/1992Severstal Cherepovets
18 Seman Zherebtsov 6'2 164 11/23/1992Avangard Omsk
19 Ivan Krasnov 5'11 175 03/22/1992Lokomotiv Yaroslavl
22 Sergey Barbashev 6'0 174 07/26/1992CSKA Moscow
23 Nikita Gusev 5'10 155 07/08/1992CSKA Moscow
24 Nikita Lukin 6'2 181 01/17/1992Lada Togliatti
27 Emil Galimov 6'2 166 05/09/1992Neftekhimik Nizhnekamsk
28 Alexander Kuznetsov 6'2 175 03/11/1992CSKA Moscow


(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

USHL Players of the Week

Press Release

The United States Hockey League today announced the weekly award winners for the fourth week of the 2009-10 USHL regular season.

Congratulations to Jaden Schwartz of the Tri-City Storm, named Reebok Offensive Player of the Week; Bryce Aneloski of the Cedar Rapids RoughRiders, selected as CCM Defensive Player of the Week; and Jeff Teglia of the Omaha Lancers, who earned honors as the USHL Goaltender of the Week.

Schwartz registered seven points (2g, 5a) and a plus-four rating in helping the Tri-City Storm win three straight games during the week. He scored two goals in the first period of the 4-1 win vs. Lincoln on Tuesday. On Friday, he dished out three assists in the 5-3 win over Youngstown, and then added two more assists in Saturday’s 3-1 win vs. the Phantoms. The native of Wilcox, Saskatchewan has at least one point in each of his last six games, the longest active USHL scoring streak, and has multiple points in four games during that span. The 17-year-old forward is in his first USHL season and leads the Storm with 11 points (4g, 7a) in seven games.

Aneloski registered a League season high six points (3g, 3a) in Saturday’s 7-2 win vs. Team USA. The defenseman also recorded the first hat trick of the 2009-10 USHL season scoring all three of his goals on the power play, which ties a League record for power play goals in a game. The six points are the most by a USHL player since Kyle Flanagan of the Cedar Rapids RoughRiders scored six points (1g, 5a) on November 29, 2008. Aneloski also fired a League season high 12 shots on goal during his six-point game. The native of Pekin, Illinois added an assist in Sunday’s 3-1 loss to Lincoln and now leads the entire USHL in scoring with 15 points (6g, 9a). The 19-year-old has already eclipsed his point total from a season ago when he scored 12 points (4g, 8a) in 38 games played.

Teglia posted two victories with a 1.00 GAA and a .956 SV% for the Lancers during the week. He made 25 saves in the 5-1 win vs. Chicago on Thursday, and then stopped 18 shots for his first road victory of the season in Saturday’s 4-1 win at Sioux City. It is the second weekly honor of the season for the native of Bloomingdale, Illinois native after capturing the award following the USHL’s first week of play. Teglia, 18, currently leads USHL goaltenders with a 1.61 GAA and is tied with Indiana’s Cab Morris for the League’s top save percentage (.935). Teglia has allowed just one goal in each of his four victories this season helping the Lancers to the top of the West Division standings (6-1-0).

(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Blazers dismiss Barry Smith

Press Release

Kamloops, BC - Craig Bonner, Vice President and General Manager of the Kamloops Blazers Hockey Club, has announced that the Club has dismissed Barry Smith as Head Coach.

"Our results this year are not acceptable," Bonner said. “We will not tolerate being an average team at this stage. I particularly disliked our structure and the direction our team was headed, along with the lack of emotion we have shown of late. Since I saw little to suggest that the team was trying to make the adjustments necessary to turn our play around, we had little option but to make a change."

Bonner added, “We want an aggressive type of play. We want an emotional and hard-working team. We want a team that is not standing on their heels.”

Assistant Coach Scott Ferguson will assume the position of Interim Head Coach until further notice. Geoff Smith will remain as an Assistant Coach in a more enhanced role.

The Blazers organization would like to thank Barry for his efforts and wish him every success with his future.

Craig Bonner and Scott Ferguson are available for comment immediately.

The players will be available for comment at 3pm outside the Blazers dressing room.

(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Monday, October 26, 2009

The Program

A good first look at Junior A Prospects

(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Telus Players of the Week

Press Release

BOUCHERVILLE, Monday, October 26, 2009 – Two defensemen captured the awards this week. Charles-Olivier Roussel of the Shawinigan Cataractes and Yann Sauvé of the Saint John Sea Dogs today were named the TELUS offensive and defensive players of the week for the period extending from October 19 to 25.

Roussel tallied two goals and five assists while posting a +1 rating in four games. He ended up recording all seven of his points with the man-advantage by galvanizing a power-play which capitalized on 36% of its opportunities. After winning three of their last four games, the Cataractes have risen to the number three spot in the TELUS Central Division standings.

Marc-Olivier Vachon (Voltigeurs), Éric Faille (Titan) and Tomas Kubalik (Tigres) were also considered.

On defence, Yann Sauvé takes home the award after several dominant performances. In three Sea Dogs victories, Sauvé collected one goal and four assists. Moreover, the bruising back-liner posted a remarkable +8 rating and recorded ten hits. Following five consecutive wins, Saint John has taken over the top spot in the Atlantic Division standings.

Kevin Poulin (Tigres), Louis Domingue (Wildcats) and Marc-Antoine Gélinas (Sea Dogs) were also strong candidates.

(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

WHL Boston Pizza Player of the Week

Press Release

CALGARY, AB. - The BOSTON PIZZA WHL Player of the Week is forward Brandon Kozun of the Calgary Hitmen.
Kozun picked up nine points, scoring three goals and six assists to go with a +4 rating, in four games over the past week, helping the Hitmen post a 4-0 record in that span.

On Tuesday, October 20th the Hitmen travelled north to face Divisional rivals the Red Deer Rebels. Kozun scored the game winning goal and added a pair of assists as the Hitmen defeated the Rebels 6-3; he was also named the games 3rd Star. On Wednesday, October 21st, in Calgary, the Hitmen hosted the Edmonton Oil Kings in the first half of a home-and-home series. Kozun picked up a goal and an assist as the Hitmen shut-out the Oil Kings 4-0 and was named the games 2nd Star. The latter part of the home-and-home went on Friday, October 23rd, at Rexall Place in Edmonton. Kozun scored his second game winning goal on the week and added two assists with the Hitmen downing the Oil Kings 5-2. The Calgary Hitmen wrapped up their busy week on Sunday, October 25th, hosting the Seattle Thunderbirds at the Pengrowth Saddledome. Kozun picked up one assist, setting up Calgary’s game winning goal, as the Hitmen doubled up the Thunderbirds 2-1.

Kozun’s nine points over the last four games has him sitting 1st among all WHL Scorers with 27 points (8 goals, 19 assists) in 15 games played. The second ranked Calgary Hitmen have stretched their winning streak to five games and currently hold top spot in the WHL Central Division, Eastern Conference and entire WHL with a 12-3-0-0 record for 24 points.

Kozun, a 19-year-old from Calgary, Alberta, is in his third full season with the Calgary Hitmen. The 2009 NHL Draft pick of the Los Angeles Kings and 2008-09 WHL Eastern Conference first team All-Star is coming off a career year in WHL, collecting career highs in all scoring categories with 40 goals, 68 assists and 108 points, good enough for second spot among all WHL scorers in 2008-09.

The WHL has also nominated Jeff Bosch of the Moose Jaw Warriors for the CHL Goaltender of the Week Award. Bosch posted a 2-0-0-0 record this past week with one shut-out, stopping 31 of 32 shots faced for a 0.500 goals-against average and 0.969 save percentage. Bosch, a native of Martensville, Saskatchewan, has appeared in 10 games this season posting a 7-3-0-0 record with one shut-out and a 3.14 GAA.

(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Another Bentley commitment

Press Release

Kingston, MA- Bay State Breakers left shot forward Jesse Petito has received a scholarship to attend Bentley College for the fall of 2010.

Jesse is a 5’9 left shot 1991-born forward who played for the Jr. B National Champion Suffolk PAL (Met) last season. In 41 games last season with Suffolk PAL Jesse had 44 goals and 50 assists for a total of 94 points. Currently, Jesse is leading the Breakers in scoring with 8 goals and 8 assists in 13 games.

“I am very excited about attending Bentley College and playing NCAA Div. I College Hockey next year. Bentley is a great fit for me both academically and athletically. The rest of this season I am going to focus on getting stronger and improving my play,” stated Petito.

“Jesse’s potential right now is limitless. He’s had the ability to score timely goals for us this season. It’s tough to find pure goal scorers and that is what I would classify Jesse as. We are excited about having Jesse as an alumnus,” stated Breakers Head Coach David McCauley.

“Playing here at Bay State for Coach McCauley has been a great experience. It’s evident that he cares about every player on the team and commits to making us better as players and individuals. I can already tell that I am getting stronger from the on-ice practices and the off-ice training designed for us,” added Petito.

(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Sweden's roster for the WJAC

Press Release

1 GK Gustafsson Johan Skåre BK SWE 28.02.92 Köping 188 94 L
30 GK Gunnarsson Jonas HV 71 SWE 15.04.92 Eksjö 184 86 L
2 D Alm Johan Frölunda HC SWE 28.01.92 Skellefteå 189 88 L
3 D Berglind Victor Brynäs IF SWE 02.10.92 Karlstad 180 82 R
4 D Almquist Adam HV 71 SWE 27.02.91 Jönköping 181 79 L
5 D Andersson Nils IF Björklöven SWE 15.10.91 187 80 R
6 D Johansson Karl Brynäs IF SWE 21.01.93 Östersund 174 70 L
7 D Nemeth Patrik AIK IF SWE 08.02.92 Stockholm 192 96 L
8 D Granberg Petter Skellefteå AIK SWE 27.08.92 Gällivare 188 85 R
9 D Bäckman Mattias Linköpings HC SWE 03.10.92 Linköping 185 70 L
11 F Franzén Mathias AIK IF SWE 20.06.92 Stockholm 175 70 R
12 F Larsson Johan Brynäs IF SWE 25.07.92 Lau 182 90 L
14 F Ottosson Sebastian Linköpings HC SWE 07.02.92 Karlskrona 178 80 R
15 F Pettersson Adam Skellefteå AIK SWE 13.01.92 Skellefteå 182 88 L
16 F Rensfeldt Ludvig Brynäs IF SWE 29.01.92 Gävle 190 89 L
17 F Nordström Joakim AIK IF SWE 25.02.92 Stockholm 185 75 L
18 F Fasth Jesper HV 71 SWE 02.12.91 Nässjö 182 80 R
19 F Thorell Erik Skåre BK SWE 03.03.92 Karlstad 178 80 L
20 F Johansson Jonathan Frölunda HC SWE 30.06.91 Göteborg 191 90 L
21 F Öhman Victor IF Malmö Redhawks SWE 07.04.92 Malmö 185 92 L
22 F Järnkrok Calle Brynäs IF SWE 25.09.91 Gävle 181 75 R
23 F Sundström Johan Frölunda HC SWE 21.09.92 Göteborg 189 89 R

(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Sunday, October 25, 2009

Hockey Canada Unviels Green Jerseys for the WJC

Press Release

Hockey Canada announced on Saturday that Canada’s National Junior Team will wear green jerseys during the 2010 IIHF World Junior Championship, in honour of Saskatchewan’s love affair with the CFL’s Roughriders and as a salute to the province. Also, the 2010 IIHF World Junior Championship will mark the first time the tournament has returned to Canadian cities (Regina and Saskatoon) for a second time.

The green jerseys were unveiled during the Saskatchewan-B.C. Lions game in Regina on Saturday.

“Green is the colour … hockey is the game,” says Scott Smith, chief operating officer of Hockey Canada. “It’s exciting to release a special version of the Hockey Canada jersey. We believe fans in Saskatchewan, and throughout Canada, will rally around the green jerseys prior to and during the 2010 IIHF World Junior Championship.”

Canada’s National Junior Team will wear the jerseys twice – once in a pre-competition game and once during the championship. Canada is attempting to win its sixth-straight IIHF World Junior Championship gold medal.

“We’re thrilled with the tribute that Hockey Canada is giving to our province and our sports fans,” says Jack Brodsky, president of the 2010 IIHF World Junior Championship host organizing committee. “We expect these jerseys to be a hit and can’t wait to see fans wearing them in the seats during the championship.”

The green jerseys, which were designed by Nike, will be available at SportChek, official retailer of Hockey Canada and the 2010 IIHF World Junior Championship, Jersey City and through the event merchandiser on-site in Regina and Saskatoon during the championship. The jerseys are available while supplies last.

Hockey Canada has also announced that it will auction off the game-worn jerseys from the 2010 IIHF World Junior Championship on www.ebay.ca. Details of the auction will be released in late December.

The 2010 IIHF World Junior Championship runs from December 26, 2009 to January 5, 2010 in Regina and Saskatoon. Pre-competition games will be held in communities throughout the province. Tickets are available

(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Thunder names Linkenheld new coach

Press Release

The Albert Lea Thunder has announced that Chuck Linkenheld has been named the team’s new head coach.

A graduate of Merrimack College, the former Warriors captain played under current Chicago Blackhawks director of player recruitment Ron Anderson and Washington Capitals assistant coach Jay Leach.

“We’re proud to have Chuck join our staff,” said Thunder owner Barry Soskin. “With the experience he brings to our program and his knowledge of college recruiters, he’ll for certain assist in helping our players advance.”

In his 20 years of coaching, Linkenheld has helped groom countless junior and college prospects, many of whom are currently playing in the Division I-III ranks at schools like Notre Dame, North Dakota, New Hampshire, Merrimack, Harvard, Princeton, Wisconsin and Michigan State.

“Chuck's relationship with the Tier I Elite League and in the East will be an asset to the recruiting and placement of our players,” Soskin added. “His business experience, combined with over 1,000 games coached, will be a great addition to our staff.”


(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Otters acquire Derek Holden from Peterborough

Press Release

The Erie Otters of the Ontario Hockey League announced today that they have traded defenseman Christopher Breen and a conditional sixth round draft pick in the 2012 OHL Priority Selection to the Peterborough Petes in exchange for right wing/defenseman Derek Holden.

Originally selected with Peterborough’s third round pick (44th overall) in the 2007 OHL Priority Selection, the 18 year-old Holden played 92 games with the Petes, collecting 27 assists. A native of Peterborough, Holden is expected to arrive in time for this weekend’s home games against Niagara and Sault Ste. Marie.

Breen departs from Erie after playing 71 games for the Otters, picking up 14 assists. The 6-7, 225-lb. defenseman was acquired from the Saginaw Spirit on October 7, 2008. The defender has played in 196 OHL games, tallying a goal and 23 assists.

The Otters return to action at home Friday night against the Niagara IceDogs at 7:00 p.m, followed by Breast Cancer Awareness Night Saturday at 7:00 p.m. against the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds. Fans can purchase tickets through the Tullio Arena box office, online at ottershockey.com, or by calling 814-452-8657.

Hockey for the Hungry returns to Tullio Arena! Donate a non-perishable food item at drop-off locations in the Erie-area or at the Otters front office and receive a complimentary ticket to the Otters’ home game against the Guelph Storm on October 28 at 7:00 p.m. It’s also Buck Night, with dollar hot dogs, popcorn, beer and pop, adding up to the best sports entertainment value in Northwestern Pennsylvania. All proceeds from the food drive will be donated to the Second Harvest Food Bank.

Erie Otters Mini-Ticket Packages are available to keep you in the action. Packages can be tailored to meet every fan’s schedule and budget. Reserve your seats in six, 10 or 17-game packages and receive valuable benefits and special offers. Call the Otters Office at 814-455-7779 to purchase your package or for more information.

(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Saturday, October 24, 2009

Chiefs Reassign Betz

Press Release

Forward Mike Betz has been released from the Spokane Chiefs roster and is at home in Summerland, BC awaiting reassignment. The 17-year-old had appeared in one game this season.

The move leaves the Chiefs with 27 players on their roster, including 20-year-olds Jared Spurgeon (shoulder) and Ryan Letts (foot) who haven't seen action this year due to injury. Spokane is currently carrying 16 forwards, eight defensemen and three goaltenders.

The Chiefs will host the Tri-City Americans on Saturday night on Buck Night and CheerStix Giveaway presented by Supercuts. Tickets for all home games are available by calling the Chiefs office at (509) 535-PUCK or TicketsWest at (800) 325-SEAT.

(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Wildcats' Ledford decides on Bentley

Press Release

The Wichita Falls Wildcats have announced that defenseman Zach Ledford has committed to Bentley University (Atlantic Hockey) for next season.

Ledford, from Folsom, Calif., has appeared in eight games since being acquired from the Wenatchee Wild in a September trade. The 19-year-old has two goals through 10 games this season.

“It’s one of the top-five business schools in the country," Ledford said of Bentley, which is located in Waltham, Mass. "And that’s what I want to do after my hockey career is over."

Wildcats head coach John Bowkus is enthusiastic about Ledford’s commitment to the Division I ranks.

"We’re very excited that Zach has committed to Bentley," he said. "In only a short time with our team, he’s brought energy and enthusiasm, on and off the ice, for our entire organization."

At Bentley, Ledford will join former Wildcats forward Brett Hartung, who is currently a freshman with the Falcons.

"They have a pretty good team there," Ledford said. "They compete well every year against some tough competition."

Ledford is the second player from this year’s Wildcats team to commit to a Division I program, joining forward Aaron Quick (Air Force Academy).


(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Scott Wamsganz has committed to Colorado College

Press Release

The Waterloo Black Hawks announced that forward Scott Wamsganz has committed to Colorado College and will attend the WCHA school following his USHL career.

The 17-year-old native of Anchorage, Alaska is in his first USHL season after being originally selected by the Black Hawks in the second round (21st overall) of the 2008 USHL Futures Draft. The 6-4, 200-pound Wamsganz has appeared in four games for the Black Hawks and recorded his first point, an assist, in the season-opening 5-4 shootout win vs. Green Bay.

"Scott's size and potential are very exciting for us, and I'm sure Colorado College feels the same way," said Black Hawks Head Coach P.K. O'Handley. "He is one of several young players who could really make a big impact as a rookie this season in Waterloo."

Three other current USHL players are committed Colorado College; Eamonn McDermott (Fargo Force), Aaron Harstad (Green Bay Gamblers), and Dakota Eveland (Omaha Lancers).

Former Black Hawk goaltender Joe Howe is a freshman at Colorado College and was named the WCHA Rookie of the Week. He has posted a 2-0-1 record with a 1.62 GAA and .949 SV% this season.

Twelve other former USHL players are currently on the roster for the Colorado College Tigers; Scott Winkler (Cedar Rapids RoughRiders), Doug Leaverton (Cedar Rapids RoughRiders), Gabe Guentzel (Sioux Falls Stampede), Stephen Schultz (Lincoln Stars), Nate Prosser (Sioux Falls Stampede), Matt Overman (Sioux Falls Stampede), Nick Dineen (Sioux Falls Stampede), Tim Hall (Ohio Jr. Blue Jackets), Ryan Lowery (Lincoln Stars), Mike Testwuide (Waterloo Black Hawks), William Rapuzzi (Green Bay Gamblers), and Hudson Stremmel (Chicago Steel).

Colorado College is coached by Scott Owens who spent eight seasons as a head coach in the USHL. He led the Des Moines Buccaneers to the Clark Cup following the 1998-99 season. Owens also coached the Madison Capitols for four seasons (1986-90) earning USHL Coach of the Year honors during the 1987-88 campaign. He compiled a 261-129-10 record in his eight seasons behind the bench in the USHL.

(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Friday, October 23, 2009

Oil Kings and Tigers make a deal

Press Release

Medicine Hat, AB – Medicine Hat Tigers have completed a deal with the Edmonton Oil Kings which will bring 17-year-old defenseman Austin Bourhis to the Tiger’s organization, the team announced this afternoon.

Going to Edmonton is 19-year-old forward Josh Koper who is in his second full season with the Tigers.

“Austin is a good skating defenseman who competes real hard and is currently playing in the Saskatchewan Junior League with the Yorkton Terriers,” said Tigers’ general manager/head coach Willie Desjardins.

“We are going to leave Austin with Yorkton for the time being and will continue to evaluate his progress as the season goes on,” stated Desjardins.

The 5’11”, 160 lbs defenseman from Kipling, SK is in his first season in the SJHL. In 12 games, Bourhis has collected 2 goals and added 5 assists for 12 points so far this season for the Terriers.

Last season, Bourhis played AAA midget for the Tisdale Trojans where he posted 8 goals and 14 assists for 22 points while picking up 185 penalty minutes.

“Josh has been with our organization since he was 15-years-old,” said Desjardins. “He is a good player who has battled for a spot on our team each year. He has not received the minutes played that he would like because we are trying to give more ice time to our younger players. Josh got caught up in the numbers game and with him being from Edmonton, it is a real good fit for him to go home to continue his WHL career while we can continue to give our younger players more minutes”

“We would like to thank Josh for his efforts while with our team and wish him the best of luck in the future,” concluded Desjardins.

(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Josh Brittain to Plymouth

Press Release

Plymouth Whalers President, General Manager and Head Coach Mike Vellucci announced today the acquisition of 19-year-old left wing Josh Brittain from the Barrie Colts. Plymouth sends Sudbury’s third round choice in the 2010 OHL Draft and Oshawa’s second round choice in the 2011 OHL Draft to Barrie.

Brittain (pronounced Brittin) is a draft choice of the National Hockey League’s Anaheim Ducks. He was selected by Anaheim in the third round (71st overall) of the 2008 National Hockey League Entry Draft.

Brittian – who will wear number 28 – is expected to report to the Whalers in time for tonight’s game in Kitchener and will make his home debut on Saturday night when the Whalers host Belleville at 7:05pm at Compuware Arena in the team’s annual Pink Out! game for Breast Cancer Awareness.

“Brittain is a proven veteran in this league,” Vellucci said. “He’s a power forward who has scored goals wherever he’s played. He brings a veteran presence to our team.”

Originally selected by the Kingston Frontenacs in the first round (14th overall) in the 2006 OHL Draft, Brittain was traded to Barrie last season. In 202 regular season career games in the OHL, Brittain has scored 68 goals with 60 assists for 128 points and 269 penalty minutes. Brittain enjoyed his best offensive season last year when he scored 32 goals with 20 assists for 52 points in 68 games split between Kingston and Barrie.

Brittian rejoins current Plymouth forward James Marsden. Both played in Kingston previously.

(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Cheremetiev traded to Titan

Press Release

BOUCHERVILLE, Friday, October 23, 2009 – The Halifax Mooseheads and the Acadie-Bathurst Titan made a trade on Friday.

The Mooseheads sent winger Yuri Cheremetiev (89-04-30) and a fifth round pick in 2011 to the Titan for a third round pick in 2011.

Cheremetiev is a five-year QMJHL veteran. He has three goals and four assists in fourteen games so far this season.

(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Former 67's and Knights' owner passes away

Press Release

"Howard Darwin was involved in a number of different sports over the years however his true passion was hockey and his contributions to the Ontario Hockey League and the Canadian Hockey League cannot be overstated" said OHL Commissioner David Branch. "In addition to being one of the founding principles of the Ottawa 67's hockey club, he also played a key role in the development of the CHL. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Darwin family during this most difficult time."

Howard Darwin’s Ontario Hockey League involvement began in 1967 when he, along with two other Ottawa businessmen, were granted an expansion franchise in the OHL. The club was nicknamed the 67’s in honour of Canada’s centennial year. Darwin, along with co-owner Earl Montagano, sold the 67’s in 1998. In addition to his 67’s ownership, Darwin purchased the London Nationals franchise in 1968 and renamed the team the Knights. Darwin stayed on as owner for 18 years until 1986. Darwin also served as the OHL Chairman of the Board for two seasons from 1977-79 and was an instrumental builder of the League.

(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Stars' Wilson gets NTDP call-up

Press Release

The USA Under-18 team needed a player and have asked Joe to join them as they will be making a swing through central NY this weekend. The U18’s will play at Utica College on Friday night, at Cornell on Saturday night and then will be at Colgate on Sunday afternoon. As Joe is a Colgate recruit for 2011, it should be a great day for him.

Joe currently is leading the Stars with 15 points on 8 goals and 7 assists this season. Last year Joe was Rookie of the Year in the EJHL and has consistently been one of the top forwards on the Stars roster. The Stars Head Coach Scott Montagna and the rest of the Star’s staff know that Joe is definitely a player who can handle this.

“Joe brings a great deal of competitiveness and effort every time he hits the ice. Whether it’s a practice or a game he is always giving 100%. You add that to his skill level and that is what he is as successful as he is. We really look forward to seeing how Joe does this weekend as I know he will definitely be a top level Division 1 hockey player. I know I, and a lot of our players, will be there rooting for him around our games with Apple Core," commented Coach Scott Montagna.

Joe is the son of Steve and Karen Wilson of Liverpool, NY. He continues to be an “A” student at Liverpool High School. Don Kirnan, Coach Montagna and all of the Stars coaches and players want to wish Joe the best of luck this weekend and congratulate him for being selected for this opportunity.

(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Thursday, October 22, 2009

CHL announces the Subway Super Series coaching staffs

Press Release

Toronto, ON – The Canadian Hockey League in association with SUBWAY® and the three regional leagues the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League, the Ontario Hockey League, and the Western Hockey League, today announced the coaching staffs for each of the six games of the 2009 SUBWAY® Super Series.

All three regional league teams will be led by members of Team Canada’s National Junior Team coaching staff including Head Coach Willie Desjardins who will serve as the Head Coach for Team WHL. Team Canada Associate Coach Dave Cameron and Assistant Coach Steve Spott will lead Team OHL behind the bench, with Assistant Coach André Tourigny serving as Head Coach for Team QMJHL.

“The SUBWAY® Super Series is a terrific opportunity for our coaching staffs to get to know the players who will attend the World Junior Selection Camp in December” said Al Murray, Head Scout for Team Canada’s Men’s National Teams. “This event is a very effective tool for us to evaluate players and make decisions about the players that will represent Team Canada in Saskatoon this winter.”

Tourigny, in his seventh season as Head Coach and General Manager of the Rouyn-Noranda Huskies, will be the man in charge behind the bench when the series opens in Drummondville on Monday November 16 and in Shawinigan on Wednesday November 18. Prior to his involvement with the National Junior Team, Tourigny served as an Assistant Coach with Canada’s National Summer Under-18 Team at the 2008 Memorial of Ivan Hlinka and was named the QMJHL Coach of the Year in 2005-06.

Mario Duhamel of the Drummondville Voltiguers, will serve as an Assistant Coach for Team QMJHL on home ice for the first game of the series, followed by Eric Veilleux of the Shawinigan Cataractes, who will assist Tourigny when Shawinigan hosts game two. Duhamel served as an Assistant Coach for Team Quebec at the 2007 Canada Winter Games.

Cameron and Spott will work both games behind the bench for Team OHL on Thursday November 19 in Barrie and on Monday November 23 in Windsor. Cameron, who coached Team OHL last season, is in his third straight season and seventh overall as Head Coach and General Manager of the Mississauga St. Michael’s Majors. He won a Gold Medal as an Assistant Coach with Pat Quinn and Team Canada at the 2009 World Juniors in Ottawa. Spott is in his second season as Head Coach and General Manager with the Kitchener Rangers with National Team experience the last two years as an Assistant Coach for Canada at the 2009 World Men’s Under-18 Championships and at the 2008 Memorial of Ivan Hlinka.

Assisting Cameron and Spott for game three of the series in Barrie will be Colts’ Head Coach Marty Williamson, with Spitfires’ Head Coach Bob Boughner assisting in game four played in Windsor. Boughner won the OHL and CHL Coach of the Year Award the last two seasons and won gold with Team Canada’s National Summer Under-18 Team at the 2009 Memorial of Ivan Hlinka. Williamson was Head Coach of Team Ontario in 2006 and won gold at the 2007 Canada Winter Games.

Desjardins is in his eighth season as Head Coach of the Medicine Hat Tigers and his fifth as the team’s General Manager. He will lead Team WHL for games five and six of the series in Victoria on Wednesday November 25 and in Kelowna on Thursday November 26. He worked as an Assistant Coach for Team Canada last season winning gold before taking over as Head Coach of Canada’s National Junior Team this year. He was named the WHL and CHL Coach of the Year in 2006.

Don Hay of the Vancouver Giants and Ryan Huska of the Kelowna Rockets will work as Assistant Coaches for both Team WHL games. Hay coached Team Canada to a Gold Medal at the 1995 World Junior Hockey Championships and was named WHL Coach of the Year in 1999 and 2009. Huska is in his third season as the Rockets’ Head Coach leading the team to a WHL Championship and an appearance in the MasterCard Memorial Cup finals last season.

Last season, CHL teams defeated Team Russia in five of the six games in the series before Team Canada captured their fifth straight Gold Medal at the World Junior Championships.

The regional league rosters will be announced individually beginning with Team QMJHL on Thursday October 22 followed by Team OHL and Team WHL next week.

The 2009 SUBWAY® Super Series is supported by CHL associate sponsors, Bank of Montreal and CCM. All games will be broadcast nationally on Rogers Sportsnet with the two QMJHL games shown on RDS.

For more information about the event and tickets please visit www.subwaysuperseries.com

(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)