Monday, February 28, 2011

Storm’s Taylor Beck Named OHL Player of the Week

Press Release

Toronto, ON – The Ontario Hockey League today announced that forward Taylor Beck of the Guelph Storm is the OHL Player of the Week for the week ending February 27. Beck led the league with 13 points in four games scoring four goals and nine assists with a plus-minus rating of plus-4.

Beck celebrated Family Day last Monday with the best game of his OHL career producing six points as part of a 10-4 win over the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds. He scored twice including the game-winner and added four assists as first star of the game. He was almost just as productive on Friday scoring five points with two goals and three assists receiving first star honours for the second straight game in a 7-4 win over the Barrie Colts. After a scoreless Saturday night in a 4-3 loss to the Owen Sound Attack, Beck finished his week with two assists in a 4-2 win over the Kingston Frontenacs on Sunday.



Beck, a 19-year-old from Niagara Falls, ON, is playing in his fourth OHL season with the Storm. A third round pick of the Nashville Predators in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft, Beck is currently sixth in OHL scoring with 85 points in 55 games.

Also considered for the award this week was Eric O’Dell of the Sudbury Wolves after scoring five goals and four assists for nine points in three games. Top rookie scorer Nail Yakupov of the Sarnia Sting had nine points in four games with four goals and five assists and set a new franchise record for goals by a rookie with 43 surpassing the mark set by current NHL top scorer Steven Stamkos of the Tampa Bay Lightning who scored 42 goals for the Sting in the 2006-07 season. In goal, Peter Di Salvo of the Oshawa Generals is nominated for the second straight week with a 2-0-0-1 record including one shutout with a goals-against-average of 1.91 and save percentage of .949.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Marcel-Robert Trophy finalists revealed

Press Release

The five finalists for the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League Scholastic Player of the Year award were announced today.

The finalists are:

Pascal Amyot - Halifax Mooseheads
Michaël Bournival - Shawinigan Cataractes
Guillaume Goulet - Victoriaville Tigres
Jean-Philippe Mathieu - Drummondville Voltigeurs
Nicolas Therrien - Chicoutimi Saguenéens

Each candidate must now go through an arduous interview process with the Marcel-Robert committee which will measure their analytical skills and their understanding of current events. Their performance during the interview will also play a key role.

This year’s Marcel-Robert committee members are: Éric L’Italien, a former QMJHL player and recipient of the Marcel-Robert Trophy as well as this year’s committee President; Emmanuelle Ouimet, General Manager, Strategic Sponsorship, Event Marketing and Contents for TELUS; Marie-Linda Lord, Teacher at Moncton University and its Chair of Acadian Studies; Sébastien Fyfe, Director of Alliance Sport-Études; Mathias Brunet, Columnist for La Presse.

The Scholastic Player of the Year will be honoured at the next Golden Puck Awards Gala which will be held on Wednesday, April 6, in Montreal. Along with the Marcel-Robert Trophy, the winner will receive a $1,300 bursary from the QMJHL’s major partner, TELUS.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

NAHL announces Players of the Week

Press Release

The North American Hockey League (NAHL) has announced its Players of the Week, sponsored by SBK Hockey, for the week ending Feb. 27.

SBK HOCKEY/NORTH PLAYER OF THE WEEK
Larkin Jacobson - Janesville Jets

Janesville forward Larkin Jacobson connected for two goals and an assist as the Jets split a two-game series with Springfield. On Friday, the Sioux City, Iowa, native tallied a pair of goals, including the game-winner, in a 4-1 victory. The next night, the 19-year-old University of Denver recruit picked up an assist as the Jets fell to the Jr. Blues, 3-2.

“Larkin played hard last weekend and has shown good leadership for us down the stretch,” said Jets head coach Dane Litke. “He’s battled some injury problems lately, but has been reliable nonetheless. We hope he’ll continue to lead us through our last nine games of the regular season.”

HONORABLE MENTION: Chicago forward Gabe Gervais; Motor City forward Cody Wydo; Port Huron defenseman Sean Gammage

SBK HOCKEY/SOUTH PLAYER OF THE WEEK
Matt Johnson - Amarillo Bulls

Amarillo forward Matt Johnson came through with a goal and four assists as the Bulls fashioned a 2-0-1 record. On Thursday, the Clinton Township, Mich., native recorded three assists, including one on Dan Sherer’s game-winning goal, in a 3-0 victory over the New Mexico Mustangs. The next night, the 19-year-old tallied a goal and another assist as the Bulls downed Corpus Christi, 7-3. Johnson, who was held scoreless in Amarillo’s 4-3 shootout loss to the IceRays on Sunday, was also a plus-5 on the weekend.

“Matt’s become a complete player this season,” said Bulls head coach Dennis Williams. “He plays in all situations and makes his teammates better every time he’s on the ice. He’s also an alternate captain who leads both vocally and by example.”

HONORABLE MENTION: Amarillo forward Zack Smoot; Topeka forwards Nathan Milam and Brian Christie; Wichita Falls forward Tanner Fahlstedt

SBK HOCKEY/CENTRAL PLAYER OF THE WEEK
Zac Frischmon - Coulee Region Chill

Coulee Region forward Zac Frischmon struck for three goals and two assists as the Chill skated to a two-game sweep over Bismarck. On Friday, the Blaine, Minn., native put home a goal and an assist in a 4-3 triumph. The next night, the 20-year-old tallied a pair of goals, including the game-winner, and an assist as the Chill bested the Bobcats, 6-2. He was also a plus-5 on the weekend.

"Zac has the speed and skill to play Division I hockey in any conference," said Chill head coach Garrett Strot. "He's a player who'll go to the high-traffic areas and wins the battles along the boards."

SBK HOCKEY/WEST PLAYER OF THE WEEK
John Stampohar - Fairbanks Ice Dogs

Fairbanks forward John Stampohar rang up a goal and four assists as the Avalanche celebrated a two-game sweep over Alaska. On Friday, the Hibbing, Minn., native notched a goal and three assists, including one on JT Osborn’s game-winning marker, in a 5-2 victory. The next night, the 21-year-old picked up another assist as the Ice Dogs blanked the Avalanche, 3-0. He was also a plus-3 on the weekend.

SBK HOCKEY/GOALTENDER OF THE WEEK
Joe Phillippi - Fairbanks Ice Dogs

Fairbanks goaltender Joe Phillippi backstopped the Ice Dogs to a two-game sweep over Alaska, turning aside 72 of 74 shots. On Friday, the Shoreview, Minn., native made 44 saves in a 5-2 victory. The next night, the 20-year-old stopped all 28 shots he faced as the Ice Dogs blanked the Avalanche, 3-0.

“Joe was outstanding for us last weekend,” said Ice Dogs head coach Josh Hauge. “He’s really stepped up and been a big part of our success and we’re counting on his solid play to continue down the stretch and into the playoffs.”

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Final CJHL Top-20 has Kings in second, Vipers ninth

Press Release

The Canadian Junior Hockey League (CJHL) announced today its Final 2010-2011 Weekly Top 20 rankings in conjunction with NHL Central Scouting. Last week’s rankings and the leagues in which the teams belong to are in parenthesis.

The CJHL Final Weekly Top 20 as of Monday, February 28, 2011

1. (1) Spruce Grove Saints (AJHL)
2. (2) Powell River Kings (BCHL)
3. (4) Okotoks Oilers (AJHL)
4. (7) Pembroke Lumber Kings (CCHL)
5. (5) Newmarket Hurricanes (OJHL)
6. (3) Cornwall Colts (CCHL)
7. (6) Wellington Dukes (OJHL)
8. (8) Burlington Cougars (OJHL)
9. (9) Vernon Vipers (BCHL)
10. (10) Fort McMurray Oil Barons (AJHL)
11. (11) La Ronge Ice Wolves (SJHL)
12. (12) Portage Terriers (MJHL)
13. (15) Wisconsin Wilderness (SIJHL)
14. (13) Woodstock Slammers (MHL)
15. (14) Bonnyville Pontiacs (AJHL)
16. (16) Oakville Blades (OJHL)
17. (18) Brockville Braves (CCHL)
18. (HM) Soo Thunderbirds (NOJHL)
19. (19) Penticton Vees (BCHL)
20. (20) Les Cougars du College Champlain - Sherbrooke (LHJAAAQ)

Honorable mention goes to the Yorkton Terriers (SJHL), Kindersley Klippers (SJHL), Winkler Flyers (MJHL), Soo Eagles (NOJHL), and the Summerside Western Capitals (MHL).

Best wishes to all CJHL teams in their respective playoffs on the road to the 2011 RBC Cup in Camrose, Alberta.

The rankings are based upon a variety of factors which includes the league in which the teams belong to, their winning percentage, their win-loss record, total points accumulated, their goals-for versus goals-against ratio, amongst other factors.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Lévesque, Saulnier and Gibson named TELUS three stars of the week

Press Release

Forwards Gabriel Lévesque and Allain Saulnier as well as goaltender Christopher Gibson today were named the TELUS three stars of the week for the period extending from February 21 to 27.

Acadie-Bathurst Titan forward Gabriel Lévesque is the first star after a great offensive run in which he scored a goal and added ten assists in only three games. The 20 year-old forward played his best game against the Montreal Juniors on Wednesday, contributing an assist on each of his teammates’ goals in a 7-5 loss. Lévesque was named the game’s first star.

Moncton Wildcats right-winger Allain Saulnier is the second star after scoring four goals and adding four assists in three games. Moreover, he posted an impressive +6 rating. Saulnier was at his best against the Val-d’Or Foreurs at the air Creebec Centre on Friday, collecting three points in a 6-4 victory.

Chicoutimi Saguenéens netminder Christopher Gibson continued his remarkable play of late and gets the nod as the week’s third star. Gibson went 3-0 while posting a 1.00 goals-against-average and .966 save percentage. The goaltender enjoyed his best outing versus the MAINEiacs, stopping all 36 shots in a 3-0 win. He leads the QMJHL with a 2.05 GAA.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

BRENDAN GALLAGHER WHL PLAYER OF THE WEEK

Press Release

CALGARY, AB. – The WHL Player of the Week is forward Brendan Gallagher of the Vancouver Giants.

Gallagher picked up 10 points, scoring five goals and five assists to go with a +6 rating, in three games this past week, helping the Giants to 2-1-0-0 record.

On Friday, February 25th, the Giants played host to BC Division rivals the Chilliwack Bruins. Gallagher scored one goal, two assists and was named the games 1st Star in a losing effort as the Bruins downed the Giants 6-4. In the back half of the home-and-home series on Saturday, February 25th, the Bruins welcomed the Giants to Prospera Centre in Chilliwack. Gallagher had another big night finding the net for two goals, added one assist and was again named the games 1st Star in the Giants 5-1 victory over the Bruins. The Giants were back at home on Sunday, February 27th to take on the Tri-City Americans at the Pacific Coliseum. Gallagher scored two goals, including the game winner, and added a pair of assists in the Giants 5-0 win over the Ams. He was also named the games 1st Star for the third time in three nights.

Gallagher is currently on a seven game point streak and presently sits 4th among all WHL scorers with 87 points (43 goals, 44 assists) in 61 games played. The Giants have won 14 of their last 20 games and currently sit fifth in the WHL Western Conference with a 33-24-1-4 record for 71 points; just two back of the BC Division leading Kelowna Rockets.

Gallagher, an 18 year-old from Delta, BC, is playing his third full season with the Giants who selected him in the ninth round of the 2007 WHL Bantam Draft. He has since gone on to appear in 185 career WHL regular season games collecting 199 points (94 goals, 105 assists) and 32 WHL Playoff contests scoring 24 points (12 goals, 12 assists).

The WHL has also nominated Thomas Heemskerk of the Moose Jaw Warriors for the CHL Goaltender of the Week Award. Heemskerk posted a 1-0-0-1 record this past week with one shut-out, stopping 61 of 62 shots faced for a 0.48 goals-against average and a 0.984 save percentage. Heemskerk, a native of Chilliwack, BC, led the Warriors to a 3-0 shut-out win over the Swift Current Broncos, and then succumbed to the League leading Saskatoon Blades 2-1 in the shoot-out.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

MacLean to Join Canada’s Under-18 Squad

Press Release

Sydney–Screaming Eagles Education Coordinator Gary MacLean has been selected by the Canadian Hockey League as the Academic Advisor to Canada’s Under-18 team that will compete at this year’s IIHF World Under-18 Hockey Championships in Germany.

MacLean, a native of Albert Bridge, spent 30 years in the education system in Nova Scotia. He has been working with the Screaming Eagles for the past three seasons and is in charge of overseeing the education programs for all Screaming Eagles players at the high school, CEGEP and university levels.

He also oversees the Screaming Eagles Steps for Health School program and also acts as the representative for the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League’s Player Support Program.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Adam Johnson Awarded Enerflex Scholarship

Press Release

The Alberta Junior Hockey League, in conjunction with Enerflex Systems Income Fund, have selected Adam Johnson of the Fort McMurray Oil Barons as the recipient of the 2011 Enerflex AJHL Scholarship. AJHL President Craig T. Cripps presented Johnson with the award prior to the opening game of the 2011 AJHL Playoff Series between the Fort McMurray Oil Barons and St. Albert Steel on Friday.

As a member of the Fort McMurray Oil Barons, Adam Johnson is extremely committed to the 'team' philosophy. "His dedication to the team, both on and off the ice, is a coach's dream," stated Oil Barons Coach Tom Keca. "His work ethic is contagious and he is respected not only by his teammates, but by his opponents as well." Adam is committed in his quest to play hockey at a higher level and further his education.

Adam was described by his High School Principal as a top student and exemplary role model. "He achieved honours in academics, but it was his character that made him stand out from the rest of the students," stated Brian Horbay, Principal of Hay Lakes School.

Adam Johnson is a third year veteran of the Alberta Junior Hockey League and Captain of the Oil Barons. The 20 year old forward from Hay Lakes, Alberta has played in 155 regular season games for the Oil Barons and averaged a point per game over the past two seasons. Johnson was a finalist for the 2011 AJHL Most Dedicated Player Award and led the Oil Barons in scoring.

"My experience in the AJHL will be very useful in my life after hockey," said Adam Johnson. I feel like my maturity level has increased greatly from the time I arrived, allowing me to be a better person as I move on in life. I have learned leadership and team skills that are so valuable in life whether it be in hockey or my career".

The $1,500 scholarship is awarded to the player deemed most deserving among the sixteen applicants (one per AJHL team). Applicants were required to submit an essay describing what they have learned from playing hockey and how they can apply this in their lives after hockey. A Selection Committee then determines the recipient based on the required essay, academic performance, and the quality of reference letters from the applicant's coaches and educators.

The Alberta Junior Hockey League is proud to partner with Enerflex Systems Income Fund as its Championship Sponsor. The AJHL's sixteen member teams battle for the honour to hoist the Enerflex Cup as AJHL Champion.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Sunday, February 27, 2011

EIGHT MORE OJHLers CONFIRM COMMITMENTS

Press Release

With the OJHL playoffs well underway now, player commitments to various NCAA schools has picked up steam. Here are a few of the most recent commitments over the past few weeks:

Kingston Voyageurs forward Lukas Ciotti has confirmed his commitment to play for the NCAA Division III Adrian College Bulldogs beginning with the 2011-12 MCHA season. Ciotti recorded 28 goals and 29 assists for 57 points to finish tied for 2nd on the Voyageurs in goal scoring and 3rd in overall scoring this season.

Newmarket Hurricanes forward Jeff DiNallo has confirmed his commitment to play for the NCAA Division I Clarkson University Golden Knights beginning with the 2012-13 ECAC season. DiNallo recorded 28 goals and 28 assists for 56 points to finish 2nd in scoring with the OJHL regular season champions, earning North-West Conference 1st Team All-Prospect honours.

Newmarket Hurricanes defenceman Luke Maw has confirmed his commitment to play for the CIS Lakehead University Thunderwolves beginning with the 2011-12 OUA season. Maw recorded four goals and six assists for 10 points this season for the regular season champion Hurricanes.

Georgetown Raiders forward Patrick Megannety has confirmed his commitment to play for the NCAA Division I Clarkson University Golden Knights beginning with the 2012-13 ECAC season. Megannety recorded 15 goals and 21 assists for 36 points, finishing 10th in scoring on the Raiders and earning North-West Conference 2nd Team All-Prospect honours.

Kingston Voyageurs forward Steve Perfetto has confirmed his commitment to play for the NCAA Division I Lake Superior State University Lakers beginning with the 2011-12 CCHA season. Perfetto recorded 16 goals, to finish 6th on the Voyageurs, and 33 points to finish 8th overall in team scoring this season.

Newmarket Hurricanes forward Braeden Rigney has confirmed his commitment to play for the NCAA Division I Canisius College Golden Griffins beginning with the 2011-12 Atlantic Hockey season. Rigney recorded six goals and 14 assists for 20 points to finish 14th overall in scoring with the Hurricanes.

Kingston Voyageurs netminder Wendell Vye has confirmed his commitment to play for the CIS Dalhousie University Tigers beginning with the 2011-12 AUS season. Vye would back-up OJHL Top Goaltender Charlie Finn this season and record a 4-5 record in nine games played.

Kingston Voyageurs forward Joey Wilson has confirmed his commitment to play for the NCAA Division I Colgate University Raiders beginning with the 2011-12 ECAC season. Wilson recorded 26 goals and 30 assists for 56 points to finish 4th overall in scoring on the Voyageurs this season.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

VIDAL PICKS HOLY CROSS

Press Release

Kingston, MA- Bay State Breakers forward and team Captain Matt Vidal has committed to Holy Cross for the fall of 2012. Holy Cross competes in the NCAA Division I Atlantic Hockey League.

Matt is a 5’9”, 165-pound right-shot forward who can play both right wing and center. Matt leads the Breakers in points with 48 points (14 goals and 34 assists) in 43 games.

“It has always been my dream to play Division I college hockey at a school with a great athletic and academic reputation. I am excited that coach Pearl has offered me the opportunity to be a part of the Holy Cross hockey program,” stated Vidal.

“Matt has been a great leader and Captain for our team. What makes Matt such a special player is his consistency and his compete level. With how hard he works on and off the ice he brings the competitive level of other players up. We are excited for Matt and even more excited to have him back next year,” stated Head Coach McCauley.

“I could not have achieved my dream without the help of Coach McCauley and the guidance he has given me the last two years. He is certainly a player’s coach who has gone out of his way to help me become a better player and person. I would recommend this organization to any aspiring junior hockey player looking to take their game to the next level,” added Vidal.

Matt is the son of Carlos and Nancy Vidal from Manorville, New York.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

2011 MasterCard Memorial Cup Schedule and Game Times

Press Release

Toronto, ON – The Canadian Hockey League in association with the 2011 MasterCard Memorial Cup Host Committee today announced the schedule and start times for the 93rd edition of the prestigious National Championship which takes place May 20-29 at the Hershey Centre in Mississauga, ON.

The host Mississauga St. Michael’s Majors open the tournament against the QMJHL champions on Friday May 20 at 7:00 pm Eastern. The round-robin games on Saturday May 21 and Sunday May 22 will commence at 2:00 pm Eastern, with all other games of the 2011 MasterCard Memorial Cup beginning at 7:00 pm including the Championship Final which takes place in prime time on Sunday May 29 for the second straight year. All nine games will be broadcast live to a national audience on Rogers Sportsnet and RDS.

The 2011 MasterCard Memorial Cup marks the first time the games will be hosted in the Greater Toronto Area since the current tournament format began in 1972. The event will feature the champions of the Ontario Hockey League, the Western Hockey League, and the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League, along with the host Majors.

2011 MasterCard Memorial Cup Schedule (All times are Eastern and are subject to change):

Round-Robin Game 1 – QMJHL vs. Mississauga on Friday May 20, 2011 at 7:00 pm

Round-Robin Game 2 – OHL vs. WHL on Saturday May 21, 2011 at 2:00 pm

Round-Robin Game 3 – Mississauga vs. WHL on Sunday May 22, 2011 at 2:00 pm

Round-Robin Game 4 – OHL vs. QMJHL on Monday May 23, 2011 at 7:00 pm

Round-Robin Game 5 – WHL vs. QMJHL on Tuesday May 24, 2011 at 7:00 pm

Round-Robin Game 6 – Mississauga vs. OHL on Wednesday May 25, 2011 at 7:00 pm

Tie-Breaker (if necessary) – Thursday May 26, 2011 at 7:00 pm

Semi-Final – Friday May 27, 2011 at 7:00 pm

Championship Final – Sunday May 29, 2011 at 7:00 pm



The St. Michael’s Majors relocated to Mississauga for the 2007-08 season after playing ten seasons in Toronto beginning in 1997-98. The organization has been a fixture in Canadian Major Junior hockey since the program was founded in 1907 when St. Michael’s College School implemented a hockey program. The term “Majors” was first introduced in 1934, the same year the organization captured the first of four Memorial Cup titles with wins in 1945, 1947, and 1961.

Since the round-robin format of the event was introduced in 1972, the Ontario Hockey League has won a total of 14 Memorial Cup Championships including last season when the OHL’s Robertson Cup Champion Windsor Spitfires claimed the title. The Spitfires became just the eighth team in history to capture back-to-back Memorial Cups by defeating the host Brandon Wheat Kings 9-1 in the Championship Final. The QMJHL was represented by President Cup Champions the Moncton Wildcats, while the WHL’s Ed Chynoweth Cup Champions the Calgary Hitmen also participated.

Ticket packages for the 2011 MasterCard Memorial Cup are over 80% sold out! Gold seating ticket packages are priced at $595 while Red seating ticket packages are available for $495. Taxes and applicable fees are extra. Call 905-502-7788 for tickets or visit www.ticketmaster.ca.

The 2011 MasterCard Memorial Cup is proudly supported by MasterCard, title sponsor of this event for 13 straight years. Associate sponsors include Bank of Montreal, Subway, and CCM.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

2011 Coastal and Interior All-Star Teams announced

Press Release

The British Columbia Hockey League is pleased to announce its 2011 Coastal and Interior Conference All-Star Teams presented by Save-On-Foods. Since there was no All-Star Game this season, ballots were distributed to each head coach around the league to determine the best player at each position in both conferences.

Coastal Conference:

Goalie – Michael Garteig, Powell River Kings
48 GP, 36-8-3, 1.69 GAA (BCHL record), .934 sv. %(BCHL record)
BCHL Goaltending Award winner

Defence – Justin Dasilva, Powell River Kings
54 GP, 11 G, 32 A, 81 PIM

Defence – Graeme McCormack, Nanaimo Clippers
56 GP, 10 G, 31 A, 41 PIM

Forward – Matt Garbowsky, Powell River Kings
56 GP, 44 G, 36 A, 56 PIM
Coastal Conference Most Valuable Player

Forward – Brad McGowan, Surrey Eagles
59 GP, 36 G, 53 A, 26 PIM

Forward – Chad Niddery, Powell River Kings
56 GP, 28 G, 58 A, 70 PIM

Interior Conference:

Goalie – Kiefer Smiley, Trail Smoke Eaters
47 GP, 23-22-2, 2.83 GAA, .915 sv. %

Defence – Joey Laleggia, Penticton Vees
58 GP, 20 G, 62 A, 47 PIM
Interior Conference Most Valuable Player and Top Defenceman

Defence – Malcolm Lyles, Vernon Vipers
54 GP, 8 G, 22 A, 71 PIM

Forward – Mike Hammond, Salmon Arm SilverBacks
57 GP, 39 G, 54 A, 38 PIM
Brett Hull Trophy winner

Forward – Alex Grieve, Westside Warriors
60 GP, 31 G, 47 A, 53 PIM

Forward – Scott Jacklin, Trail Smoke Eaters
51 GP, 23 G, 50 A, 35 PIM

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

BCHL all-rookie team unveiled

Press Release

For the first time in recent memory, the British Columbia Hockey League named an all-rookie team and it's made up of players from both the Interior and Coastal Conferences.

Voting was done by coaches from all 16 teams in conjunction with award and regular all-star balloting. As opposed to finding true centres and wingers, the league simply named three forwards to go along with two defencemen and a goalie.

The 2011 BCHL All-Rookie team is as follows:

Forward - Destry Straight, Coquitlam Express
59 GP, 26 G, 41 A, 48 PIM
Coastal Conference Rookie of the Year

Forward - Bryce Gervais, Salmon Arm SilverBacks
58 GP, 29 G, 22 A, 49 PIM
Interior Conference Rookie of the Year

Forward - Joey Benik, Penticton Vees
60 GP, 30 G, 26 A, 12 PIM

Defence - Craig Dalrymple, Powell River Kings
58 GP, 9 G, 26 A, 18 PIM

Defence - Sam Labrecque, Nanaimo Clippers
47 GP, 15 G, 12 A, 2 PIM

Goaltender - Kevin Boyle, Westside Warriors
39 GP, 20-16-1, 3.02 GAA, .902 sv. %.

Voting was also done for league all-stars and results will be released Friday, February 25.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Saturday, February 26, 2011

Converted blueliner Manson inks with Quinnipiac

Press Release

The Salmon Arm SilverBacks hockey club is pleased to announce that defenceman Josh Manson has accepted a scholarship to NCAA Div. I school Quinnipiac for the 2012-13 season.

The 6-foot-3, 205-pound Prince Albert, Sask. native saw his stock rise considerably this season after making a successful switch from forward to defence.

"Josh has only started to realize his full potential at the position", said Salmon Arm head coach Tim Kehler. "Having played just the last two thirds of the season as a defenceman, it has been incredible to watch his development from week to week.

"By the time he moves on to college, Josh has the ability to be a dominant player."

Manson posted 10 goals and 14 assists last season playing up front but almost doubled his point total this year playing predominantly as a rearguard. He scored 12 goals and added 35 assists for the 'Backs this season.

The son of former NHLer Dave Manson, Josh will play one more year with the SilverBacks before going to Quinnipiac.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Oiler Reynolds Commits to University of Vermont

Press Release

The Okotoks Oilers are pleased to announce that forward Kyle Reynolds has committed to the University of Vermont Catamounts for the 2011/2012 season.

Kyle has played a big part in the Oilers success helping them clinch 1st place in the AJHL South Division for the second year in a row. This season, Reynolds captured the first AJHL Scoring Title for the Okotoks Oilers leading the AJHL with 38 goals and 78 points, an average of 1.6 points per game in 2010-2011.

Reynolds was also a finalist for the League MVP Award and was recently selected to the 2010-2011 AJHL South Division All-League Team. Reynolds (Sylvan Lake, AB) has set new Okotoks Oilers franchise records for Most Career Goals (79) and Most Career Points (165) and has also tied the franchise record for Most Points in a Single Season (78).

Coach James Poole stated, "Kyle has had a very impressive junior career and is very deserving of the accolades he has received this season. Kyle is not just an elite hockey player but also a quality person that has been a positive role model for our younger players, and a great ambassador to the Okotoks Oilers hockey program. The entire organization is very proud of Kyle and wishes him continued success in the future at the University of Vermont"

Based in Burlington, Vermont, the University of Vermont Catamounts compete in the NCAA's Hockey East Conference. Notable Catamount alumni include several NHL past & present stars like John LeClair, Martin St. Louis, Tim Thomas & Patrick Sharp.

The Oilers organization would like to thank Kyle for his outstanding commitment to the Oilers organization for the past three years and look forward to Kyle's continued contributions through the 2011 playoffs.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Jacobson commits to Brown University

Press Release

Sioux Falls, SD—The Sioux Falls Stampede are proud to announce that forward Ryan Jacobson has committed to play collegiate hockey at Brown University. He becomes the 14th Stampede player to commit to a Division I program this season.

The Greenwood Village, CO native is currently the Stampede’s leading scorer with 31 points (16g, 15a) and is a plus-7 in 42 games this season. He was recently named a CCM USHL midseason All-Star.

He leads the team with four game-winning goals this season and is third in shots-on-goal with 110. Jacobson spent last season with the Bismarck Bobcats of the North American Hockey League (NAHL) where he finished with 48 points (27g, 21a) in 57 games while leading the Bobcats to a league championship.

Brown University is located in Providence, R.I. and are members of the ECAC Conference. Former Stampede forward Jeff Prough (2003-04) played at Brown from 2004 to 2008.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

HITMEN CAPTURE EJHL CROWN

Press Release

Foxboro, MA - The Jersey Hitmen are once again EJHL regular season champions. This is the second title in the past four seasons for the Carolina blue and navy club. The Hitmen captured the title behind an electric offense and extremely stingy defense. In 43 regular season games, the Hitmen have accrued 265 goals while allowing only 78 goals against, both tops in the EJHL. They have also been dynamos on special teams this year. On the power play, the Hitmen lead the EJHL in power play goals for with 72 and power play percentage at 34.12%. On the flip side, the Hitmen penalty kill was equally impressive as they posted an 88% with a man down, only surrendering 19 power play goals against all season. Another bright stat was that the Hitmen lead the league with 12 shorthanded goals for, almost negating the power play goals against for the season.

On the individual front, the Hitmen players have put up some pretty staggering numbers. Hitmen captain and UNH recruit, Matt Willows, currently leads the league in scoring with a 27-43-70 line. He is closely followed by assistant captain, and Sacred Heart recruit, Brian Sheehan (23-44-67) who sits second in the league. The top EJHL rookie scorer is University of Maine recruit, Connor Leen, who has followed up on his tremendous Empire League campaign with a 22-40-63 scoring line, good for 3rd in EJHL scoring. The Hitmen then round out the top 23 EJHL scoring list with 7 more players, Max Novak (8th), Brandon Stroud (11th), Craig Kitto and Steven Swavely are both tied for 12th, Jesse Petito and Tim Clifton are tied for 16th, and Justin Bruckel sits in 23rd with a 21-26-47 scoring line.

In the defensive category, the Hitmen have 4 defenseman on the top 20 scoring list, led by Ian Coleman who currently sits second in defensive scoring with a 6-27-33 line. He is followed by Connor Frick and Andy Latta who are tied with 24 points good for 12th in EJHL scoring, then Peter Ryan who sits in 18th with a 4-18-22 line. In the goaltending category, Quinnipiac recruit, John Nauta, has sat atop the league all season, racking up some amazing numbers. Nauta is currently first in the following EJHL league categories: wins (23), regulation losses (1), shut outs (6), goals against over 1400 minutes played (40), goals against average 1.62 and save percentage .939. Nauta has been a force all season, only giving up more than 3 goals on two occasions in 34 starts.

"It has been a tremendous season to this point," commented coach Harris. "The boys came into camp in shape, hungry and ready to go, and up to this point they have attained two of the three team goals that they have set for themselves. We know as a team we still have a ways to go, but I could not be more proud of what these boys have accomplished thus far. It has been a pleasure to coach these boys, and I look forward to where we go from here as there is still a lot of hockey to be played."

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

THE FINAL WHISTLE!

Press Release

After eighteen seasons in the QMJHL, including the last fourteen as a referee, Stéphane Tremblay will retire his whistle on Saturday, February 26, at the air Creebec Center in Val-d’Or as the Foreurs host the visiting Acadie-Bathurst Titan.

The arena in Val-d’Or will have been the birthplace of many firsts, including his debut as a linesman in 1993-94 and also his first strides as a referee in 1998-99.

During his eighteen seasons, Stéphane Tremblay will have officiated 426 regular season and 30 playoff games as a referee and 144 regular season and 18 playoff games as a linesman for a grand total of 627 games, ranking him tenth all-time for the number of games refereed during the regular season. Moreover, he worked the 2005-06 and 2009-10 QMJHL All-Star games.

The Val-d’Or native worked the World U17 Championships that was played in Amos in 1993 and also participated in the first-ever Jewish World Hockey Championship which was held in Metula, Israel, in 2007.

Many Sacrifices

It is difficult for the average hockey fan to understand all the sacrifices that must be made by an official to fulfil his dream and to have the privilege of working as a referee at the highest amateur level in Canada.

During his career, Stéphane Tremblay used six cars, travelled over 500,000 KM and will have been on the road for 250 weekends, the equivalent of five consecutive years.

Helping the next wave

While he will no longer need to lace up his skates, the veteran official will trade in his whistle for a pencil to work for the QMJHL as a supervisor during the last weeks of the regular season in Rouyn-Noranda and Val d’Or.

The QMJHL is happy to retain the services of such an experienced official. For the Director of Officiating, Richard Trottier, his experience and excellent skills will undoubtedly be very beneficial.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Friday, February 25, 2011

ILLEGAL PLAYER COSTS MUSTANGS THREE POINTS

Press Release

The Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League has fined the Melfort Mustangs a total of $1,800 dollars and the forfeit of three points after an investigation determined the team had been using an ineligible player.

The investigation determined that an Affiliate Player had exceeded the 10 games he is allowed to appear in SJHL regular season games as per Hockey Canada regulations. The Affiliated Player was deemed an ineligible player in four Mustang games playing 14 rather than 10.

As a result of this incident, the Mustangs forfeit two points from a win against Humboldt on January 28 with the Broncos now getting that victory and one point from a shootout loss to Estevan on February 2. The other two games were Mustang losses.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

McConnell Takes Over as Steel Coach

Press Release

The Chicago Steel announced that Scott McConnell has been named interim head coach of the team following the departure of Jon Waibel who was relieved of his duties on Thursday.

McConnell is in his first season with the Steel after joining the organization in the role of assistant coach in October 2010. It marks his fifth season behind the bench in the USHL. He spent three seasons of the coaching staff of the Indiana Ice (2005-08) and helped lead them to a first-place finish in the East Division during the 2007-08 season. The native of Colorado Springs, Colorado then joined the staff for the Des Moines Buccaneers for the 2008-09 season.

McConnell took a short break from the USHL this winter when he served in the role of video coach for the U.S. National Junior Team that won the bronze medal at the 2011 World Junior Championship in Buffalo, New York.

Last season, McConnell was the video coach for the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins, AHL affiliate of the Pittsburgh Penguins. He has also had coaching stints with Billings in the NAHL and Bay City in the Western States Hockey League.

McConnell played two seasons in the USHL (1998-2000), recording 26 points (12g, 14a) and 101 penalty minutes in 47 games for the Fargo-Moorhead Ice Sharks during the 1998-99 season. The forward then scored 13 points (7g, 6a) in 28 games the following season for the Cedar Rapids RoughRiders. He went on to a four-year collegiate career at the University of Denver (2000-04) and was part of the squad that captured the 2004 NCAA Championship.

The 32-year-old McConnell is the grandson of legendary coach "Badger Bob" Johnson who coached the University of Wisconsin to three national titles (1973, 1977, and 1981) and led the Pittsburgh Penguins to their first Stanley Cup in 1991.

Waibel compiled a 9-27-7 record with the Steel after being named head coach prior to the 2010-11 season. It was his fifth season with the organization after serving the previous four in the role of assistant coach. During his time with the Steel, more than 50 players went on to play Division I college hockey and nine others were NHL Entry Draft selections.

McConnell will make his USHL head coaching debut on Friday when the Steel host the Indiana Ice.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Karl Commits to University of Alaska Anchorage

Press Release

The Olds Grizzlys are pleased to announce that 20-year-old defenseman Corbin Karl has committed to the University of Alaska Anchorage Seawolves for the 2011/2012 season.

Corbin has played a big part with the Grizzlys this season and his stellar play has been recognized by many. The leadership skills Corbin has shown on and off the ice has certainly helped him gain this opportunity. Corbin, who joined the Grizzlys in 2008/09, had his biggest offensive output this season with 12 goals and 27 assists for 39 points. He was one of the top defensemen in the Alberta Junior Hockey League and this season was voted onto the first all-star team in the south division.

Coach Kevin Willison stated, "The short time that I have known Corbin he has certainly shown his leadership qualities. Through any kind of adversity, Corbin would be willingly to sacrifice himself for the benefit of his team. Playing multiple roles and always coming to the rink with a positive attitude and a great work ethic were traits that made Corbin a consistently positive leader."

The Olds Grizzlys would like to thank Corbin for his commitment to the Olds Grizzlys program over the years and wish him continued success in his academic and athletic pursuits.


(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

WHL Announces Location for 2011 WHL Awards and Bantam Draft

Press Release

CALGARY, AB. – The Western Hockey League announced today that Calgary will host the 2011 WHL Awards Luncheon and Bantam Draft at the BMO Centre, Stampede Park. The WHL Awards Luncheon, held annually to recognize the WHL’s best performers from the regular season, will be held on Wednesday, May 4th, while the annual WHL Bantam Draft will take place on Thursday, May 5th.

The WHL Awards Luncheon will feature the WHL’s current stars and the future stars of the National Hockey League. There will be 12 prestigious awards presented, including WHL Player of the Year (Four Broncos Memorial Trophy), WHL Rookie of the Year (Jim Piggott Memorial Trophy) and the Defenceman of the Year (Bill Hunter Memorial Trophy). The WHL will also recognize academic excellence by handing out the WHL Scholastic Player and Team of the Year awards.

Over the years, the WHL has presented awards to many players who have gone on to stardom in the NHL and in international play. Past winners of the Four Broncos Memorial Trophy include current NHL players Jordan Eberle (Regina Pats, 2009-10), Karl Alzner (Calgary Hitmen, 2007-08), Kris Russell (Medicine Hat Tigers, 2006-07), Cam Ward (Red Deer Rebels, 2003-04), Dan Hamhuis (Prince George Cougars, 2001-02) and Jarome Iginla (Kamloops Blazers, 1995-96), and NHL legends such as Joe Sakic (Swift Current Broncos, 1986-87 & 1987-88), Mike Vernon (Calgary Wranglers, 1981-82 & 1982-83), Bryan Trottier (Lethbridge Broncos, 1974-75) and Bobby Clarke (Flin Flon Bombers, 1968-69).

The annual WHL Bantam Draft is the first step in the identification of the top rated 1996-born prospects as WHL Clubs select players from this age group to add to their WHL Player Protected List. Players eligible for the 2011 WHL Bantam Draft will be 1996-born players who reside in Alberta, B.C., Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Northwest Territories, Yukon, Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Kansas, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Washington and Wyoming.

Previous number one selections during the WHL Bantam Draft include Derrick Pouliot, Portland Winterhawks (2009); Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, Red Deer Rebels (2008); Quinton Howden, Moose Jaw Warriors (2007); Jared Cowen, Spokane Chiefs (2006); Colten Teubert, Regina Pats (2005); Gilbert Brule, Vancouver Giants (2002); Kyle Chipchura, Prince Albert Raiders (2001); Braydon Coburn, Portland Winter Hawks (2000); and Jay Bouwmeester, Medicine Hat Tigers (1998).

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Thursday, February 24, 2011

OHL Announces Minor Midget Top-10 Rankings for Annual Showcase Tournament

Press Release

Toronto, ON – The Ontario Hockey League today announced the fifteenth edition of the weekly minor midget rankings for the 2011 OHL Showcase for the OHL Cup, hosted by the Greater Toronto Hockey League.
The weekly rankings are determined by a panel of OHL Central Scouting Staff and represent the top teams that are competing to play in the annual year-end championship tournament March 23-27, 2011, at the Hershey Centre in Mississauga, ON.

Minor Midget Rankings for the 2011 OHL Cup Showcase Tournament – Week 15


RANK
TEAM
LEAGUE
LAST WEEK RANK
WEEKS IN RANKINGS
1
Toronto Marlies
GTHL
1
15
2
Don Mills Flyers
GTHL
2
15
3
Toronto Jr. Canadiens
GTHL
3
15
4
Detroit Honeybaked
USA
4
11
5
Elgin-Middlesex Chiefs
ALLIANCE
5
15
6
York-Simcoe Express
OMHA
6
13
7
Markham Majors
GTHL
7
5
8
Oakville Rangers
OMHA
8
8
9
Welland Tigers
OMHA
9
11
10
Mississauga Senators
GTHL
10
15






Honourable Mention




Waterloo Wolves
ALLIANCE
-
1

Ottawa Jr. 67's
ODMHA
-
1

Barrie Colts
OMHA
-
1

The tournament includes 20 participating teams from across Ontario and the United States.  The champions and finalists from minor hockey associations in Ontario, including the GTHL, OMHA, ODMHA, ALLIANCE, and an NOHA representative will participate in the tournament with additional teams identified by the Tournament Selection Committee.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Kyle Nickerson Commits to Dartmouth

Press Release

We are excited to announce that Midget Major centermen Kyle Nickerson has committed to Dartmouth College for the Fall of 2013.

Kyle, who is a '93 smooth skating smart playmaking center with a strong skill set, came to the Advantage last year to play on the first Midget Minor team. This year Kyle has taken his developement to the next level with the Midget Major team.

Kyle shared; "I am thrilled to have this opportunity to play Division I hockey at Dartmouth. I saw my cousin Ben play there and know how much Nick likes it. I'm pumped to follow them to Dartmouth. Getting the chance to be a student-athlete at Dartmouth is a dream come true."

"Kyle came to our summer development program through Lovell's Hockey two summers ago" noted Joe Lovell. "He had some serious potential. We asked him to play that summer for what was the upcoming fall season for the first Midget Minor team. We are thrilled he said yes. He was great last year for that team and terrific this year for the Major team"

Kyle will join fellow Lovell's Hockey & Boston Advantage player, Connor Dempsey, at Dartmouth in either 2013 or 2014.

"Joe Lovell, Tim Lovell, Jeff Connolly and Joe Bracken have been terrific mentors and hockey guys for me. They have pushed me to develop my skating, skill set and hockey intelligence. I'm not sure I would have had this opportunity without coming over to the Advantage. They put us all in a position to succeed and work hard for all of us to get a ton of exposure. Playing in the Tier I Elite Hockey League has helped me so much."

In 60gp to date Kyle has 18g 43a. "Kyle is going to be a good solid everyday college hockey player in a couple of years. He is a good smooth skater, has a level of craftiness unique to only him and has a nice skill set." Joe Lovell continued, "He is a terrific kid and we are all happy for him and his family. His family has huge ties to Dartmouth so its a great all around story."

Kyle had visited Dartmouth and a few other ECAC schools in the recent past. His 2 goals & 1 assist performance on Sunday night at the Showcase was the deciding factor for the Dartmouth staff.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

AJHL Announces Round One Playoff Schedule

Press Release

The Alberta Junior Hockey League today announced the complete Round One schedule for the 2011 AJHL Enerflex Cup Playoffs. The opening round of the 2011 AJHL Enerflex Cup Playoffs will commence on Thursday, February 24th in the South Division and Friday, February 25th in the North Division.

The top seven teams in each Division have qualified for the 2011 AJHL Playoffs. All series in Round One are best-of-five with the highest ranked seed awarded home ice advantage. The teams will playoff as follows: 2nd versus 7th place, 3rd versus 6th place, and 4th versus 5th place within their respective divisions.

The first place team in each division receives a bye during First Round Divisional Playoffs. The Spruce Grove Saints have earned a first round bye as regular season champions of the North Division for a third consecutive year. The Okotoks Oilers earned the South Division bye for the second year in a row.

North Division

Fort McMurray Oil Barons (2) vs. St. Albert Steel (7)

* Game 1 Friday, February 25, 2011 Fort McMurray Oil Barons 8:00 PM
* Game 2 Saturday, February 26, 2011 Fort McMurray Oil Barons 8:00 PM
* Game 3 Monday, February 28, 2011 St. Albert Steel 7:00 PM
* Game 4* Tuesday, March 1, 2011 St. Albert Steel 7:00 PM
* Game 5* Thursday, March 3, 2011 Fort McMurray Oil Barons 8:00 PM

Bonnyville Pontiacs (3) vs. Sherwood Park (6)

* Game 1 Friday, February 25, 2011 Bonnyville Pontiacs 7:00 PM
* Game 2 Saturday, February 26, 2011 Bonnyville Pontiacs 7:00 PM
* Game 3 Monday, February 28, 2011 Sherwood Park Crusaders 7:00 PM
* Game 4* Tuesday, March 1, 2011 Sherwood Park Crusaders 7:00 PM
* Game 5* Thursday, March 3, 2011 Bonnyville Pontiacs 7:00 PM

Grande Prairie Storm (4) vs. Lloydminster Bobcats (5)

* Game 1 Friday, February 25, 2011 Grande Prairie Storm 7:30 PM
* Game 2 Saturday, February 26, 2011 Grande Prairie Storm 7:30 PM
* Game 3 Monday, February 28, 2011 Lloydminster Bobcats 7:30 PM
* Game 4* Tuesday, March 1, 2011 Lloydminster Bobcats 7:30 PM
* Game 5* Thursday, March 3, 2011 Grande Prairie Storm 7:30 PM

South Division

Brooks Bandits (2) vs. Canmore Eagles (7)

* Game 1 Thursday, February 24th Brooks Bandits 7:00 PM
* Game 2 Friday, February 25th Brooks Bandits 7:00 PM
* Game 3 Sunday, February 27th Canmore Eagles 7:00 PM
* Game 4* Monday, February 28th Canmore Eagles 7:00 PM
* Game 5* Wednesday, March 2nd Brooks Bandits 7:00 PM

Camrose Kodiaks (3) vs. Drumheller Dragons (6)

* Game 1 Thursday, February 24th Camrose Kodiaks 7:30 PM
* Game 2 Friday, February 25th Camrose Kodiaks 7:30 PM
* Game 3 Sunday, February 27th Drumheller Dragons 2:00 PM
* Game 4* Monday, February 28th Drumheller Dragons 7:30 PM
* Game 5* Wednesday, March 2nd Camrose Kodiaks 7:30 PM

Calgary Mustangs (4) vs. Olds Grizzlys (5)

* Game 1 Thursday, February 24, 2011 Calgary Mustangs 8:00 PM
* Game 2 Saturday, February 26, 2011 Calgary Mustangs 2:45 PM
* Game 3 Sunday, February 27, 2011 Olds Grizzlys 3:30 PM
* Game 4* Monday, February 28, 2011 Olds Grizzlys 7:30 PM
* Game 5* Wednesday, March 2, 2011 Calgary Mustangs 7:00 PM

* if necessary

The Alberta Junior Hockey League will crown Divisional Champions in the 2011 AJHL Enerflex Cup Playoffs. Each division will playoff to determine a divisional champion at the conclusion of Round Three. The North Division Champion and the South Division Champion will then compete in the League Final (Round Four) for the 2011 AJHL Enerflex Cup.

Round Two: March 5th - 16th, 2011

The first place team will play the lowest place team remaining in their division and the next highest placed team will play the other team in a best-of-seven series.

Round Three - League Semi-Finals: March 19th -29th, 2011
The remaining two teams in each division will playoff for the title of Division Champion in a best-of-seven series and advance to the League Final. (1 vs. 4 & 2 vs. 3)

Round Four - League Final (Enerflex Cup): April 1st - 12th, 2011

South Division Champion versus North Division Champion

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Wednesday, February 23, 2011

AJHL Announces League Award Winners

Press Release

The Alberta Junior Hockey League is proud to announce the League Award Winners for the 2010-2011 AJHL Season. Each recipient will be presented with the award at their respective home arenas during the 2010 AJHL Enerflex Cup Playoffs.

Most Valuable Player - Alberta Old Time Hockey Players Trophy
Tanner Fritz of the Grande Prairie Storm is the winner of the Alberta Old Time Hockey Players Trophy as the Most Valuable Player for the 2010-2011 AJHL Season.

Fritz completed the season, his fourth with the Storm, with 74 points and 4th overall in the League Scoring Race. Fritz was a unanimous selection to the 2010-2011 AJHL North Division All-League Team after a season in which he averaged 1.2 points per game and led the North Division in scoring. Fritz recorded 7 game winning goals for the Storm in the 2010-2011 regular season.

Fritz was named the AJHL Player of the Week on two occasions and was honoured as Player of the Game for the Storm 13 times. Fritz is a two-time World Junior A Hockey Challenge participant.

The 19 year-old forward of Grande Prairie, Alberta is committed to Ohio State University for the 2011 season.

Fritz is the 3rd Storm player to capture the League MVP Award, the most recent being Dustin Sather (2006-2007). Cody Kunyk of the Sherwood Park Crusaders was the recipient of the Most Valuable Player Award for the 2009-2010 season.

Scoring Champion - Ernie Love Trophy
Kyle Reynolds has captured the first AJHL Scoring Champion Title for the Okotoks Oilers. Reynolds led the Alberta Junior Hockey League with 78 points, an average of 1.6 points per game in 2010-2011.

Reynolds was also a finalist for the League MVP Award and was recently selected to the 2010-2011 AJHL South Division All-League Team. Reynolds was awarded Player of the Game 12 times throughout the regular season and was also recognized as the AJHL Player of the Week during a 10-game point streak in November 2010.

Reynolds (Sylvan Lake, AB) has set new franchise records for Most Career Goals (79) and Most Career Points (165). Reynolds has also tied the franchise record for Most Points in a Single Season (78), shared with Elliot Sheen of the 2007-2008 Oilers.

The Okotoks Oilers clinched top spot in the AJHL South Division for a second straight season and have earned a bye in the first round of the 2011 AJHL Playoffs.

Zahn Raubenheimer of the Grande Prairie Storm and Bryce Williamson of the St. Albert Steel were co-recipients of the Ernie Love Trophy in 2009-2010 with 107 points.

Top Goaltender - Friends of Alberta Junior Hockey League Trophy
Bonnyville Pontiacs goaltender Julien Laplante is the Top Goaltender for 2010-2011 after a record breaking season. Laplante set a franchise record for Lowest Goals Against Average (2.09 GAA) and Most Shutouts (9). He also tied the League record for Most Consecutive Shutouts (3) and now sits second in the AJHL Record Book for Most Shutouts in a Single Season (9).

Laplante was named a finalist for the 2010-2011 AJHL League MVP Award. He was also selected to the 2010-2011 AJHL North Division All-League Team. Laplante is the first Pontiac player to win the Top Goaltender Award.
Laplante was third overall amongst AJHL goaltenders with a 2.09 GAA and .925 Save Percentage and led the League with 9 shutouts. Laplante was the Player of the Game for the Pontiacs five times in 2010-2011.
Laplante has committed to attend Union College beginning the Fall of 2011. The 20 year-old goaltender from Sherwood Park, Alberta is in his third season for the Pontiacs.
The Top Goaltender Award is awarded to the goaltender who demonstrated the greatest ability in his position throughout the season as voted on by the League General Managers and Coaches. Goaltender Travis Rolheiser of the Spruce Grove Saints earned the Top Goaltender Award for the 2009-2010 AJHL Season.

Top Team Goaltenders - Reebok / CCM Top Team Goaltenders Award
For a second consecutive year, the goaltending duo of the Spruce Grove Saints have won the Top Team Goaltenders Award. The Top Team Goaltenders Award is an annual award given to the goaltenders of the team with the lowest goals against average (GAA) in the regular season.

Goaltenders Vincenzo Marozzi and Joel Miller of the Spruce Grove Saints are the recipients of the 2010-2011 Reebok / CCM Top Team Goaltenders Award. The Saints allowed just 106 goals this year, a 1.77 GAA. This stingy defence has placed the Saints 2nd overall in the AJHL Record Book, behind their own record of 99 goals allowed in 2009-2010.

The Spruce Grove Saints captured the Dave Duchak Trophy as the 2010-2011 AJHL Regular Season Champions for the third consecutive season and earned a bye in Round One of the 2011 AJHL Playoffs.

Marozzi has tied his current franchise record of 7 shutouts, and has sets new franchise records with 21 career shutouts and a career GAA of 1.80, both previously set by himself from 2008-2010. Marozzi was also a finalist for the AJHL Top Goaltender Award. Marozzi (Edmonton, AB) and Miller (Chestermere, AB) received the Player of the Game Award a combined eight times in the regular season.

Vincenzo Marozzi and Travis Rolheiser of the Spruce Grove Saints were the recipients of the 2009-2010 Top Team Goaltenders Award.

Rookie of the Year - Dick White Trophy
Rookie goaltender Cole Cheveldave of the Drumheller Dragons is the 2010-2011 AJHL Rookie of the Year. Cheveldave posted a remarkable year for the Dragons and was a finalist for the AJHL MVP Award and Top Goaltender Award. Cheveldave is the first Dragons player to capture the Rookie of the Year Award.

Cole Cheveldave was a unanimous selection to the 2010-2011 AJHL South Division All-Rookie Team. He was selected as the Player of the Game 14 times for the Dragons this season.

The 17 year-old goaltender from Calgary, Alberta led all rookies in minutes played (2,521) and shots faced (1,474). Cheveldave recorded his first AJHL shutout in January 2011 and followed up with a second shutout just seven days later. Cheveldave was 7th amongst AJHL goaltenders with a .917 Save Percentage.

Defenceman Dillon Simpson of the Spruce Grove Saints won the Dick White Trophy as the 2009-2010 AJHL Rookie of the Year.


Outstanding Defenceman - W.G. (Bill) Scott Memorial Trophy
Colten Hayes of the Okotoks Oilers has been named the League's Outstanding Defenceman for the 2010-2011 AJHL Season. The award is given annually to the defensive player who demonstrates the greatest all-round ability in the position throughout the season.

Hayes was nominated to the 2010-2011 AJHL South Division All-League Team. Hayes is the first player in franchise history to win the Outstanding Defenceman Award.

Hayes received the Player of the Game Award for the Oilers 6 times in the regular season. He led all d-men in assists with 42 and averaged 1.0 points per game. Hayes recorded 54 points and 7 powerplay goals in 2010-2011, which placed him amongst the League's Top 25 Scorers.

Hayes and the Oilers captured 1st place in the South Division to guarantee a first round bye in the 2011 AJHL Playoffs. 20 year old defenceman Colten Hayes has committed to the University of Western Michigan for the 2011 season.

Matthew Register of the Bonnyville Pontiacs was awarded the W.G. (Bill) Scott Memorial Trophy in 2009-2010.

Most Dedicated Player - Don McNabb Memorial Trophy
Forward Kevin Carthy of the Bonnyville Pontiacs is the winner of the Don McNabb Memorial Trophy as the Most Dedicated Player. Carthy becomes the first player in franchise history to receive the award. The Don McNabb Memorial Trophy is awarded annually to the player judged the most dedicated to his team.

Carthy played in all 60 regular season games for the Pontiacs this year and tallied 4 game winning goals. The hard working veteran is one of three League award winners from the Bonnyville Pontiacs. The 19 year-old from Edmonton, Alberta is in his second full season with the Pontiacs. Carthy was the recipient of the Most Improved Player Award for the Pontiacs in 2009-2010.

Nate Fleming of the Spruce Grove Saints was the 2009-2010 recipient of the Most Dedicated player Award.

Coach of the Year
Chad Mercier of the Bonnyville Pontiacs has been honoured with the 2010-2011 AJHL Coach of the Year Award. Mercier is the first Coach in franchise history to receive the prestigious award.

The Bonnyville Pontiacs were nominated for five League Awards, including League MVP, Top Goaltender, Rookie of the Year and Most Dedicated Player. Two members of the Bonnyville Pontiacs were named to the 2010-2011 AJHL North Division All-League Team and a third player was selected to the 2010-2011 AJHL North Division All-Rookie Team.
The Bonnyville Pontiacs clinched third place in the North Division, a franchise high for the Pontiacs. The team allowed a franchise low 150 goals, the third lowest in the AJHL, and posted a record 9 shutouts in 2010-2011.
Chad Mercier has led the Pontiacs since April 2006 when he was hired as the General Manager / Head Coach. Prior to joining the Pontiacs he was as Associate Head Coach and Assistant Coach in the Western Hockey League.
Spruce Grove Saints Coach Steve Hamilton was voted the AJHL Coach of the Year for the second consecutive season in 2009-2010.

Stewy Stewart Memorial - Stewy Stewart Memorial Trophy
The winner of the 2010-2011 Stewy Stewart Memorial Trophy is Jeremy Burns of the Brooks Bandits. Burns was nominated by the Bandits Coaching Staff as a team leader and ideal candidate for the award.

The Stewy Stewart Memorial Trophy is named in honour of a long-time Calgary area fan who supported hockey at all levels. "Stewy" died in 1997 and the award was created to honour his support and commitment to the game. The Stewy Stewart Memorial Trophy is awarded annually to the AJHL player in the South Division that best exhibits the following attributes: character, dedication, perseverance, integrity and sportsmanship.
"Jeremy's ability to lead by example both on and off the ice made him an easy selection for this award" said Brooks Bandits Head Coach Ryan Papaioannou. "His off ice conduct and commitment show his strong upbringing and the positive character he demonstrates at all times."
The Bandits acquired Burns (Edmonton, AB) as a 19 year-old forward from the Camrose Kodiaks. "His addition to the Bandits organization has been very well received and his character is something you must have on any successful hockey team."

Evan Warner (Calgary, AB) of the Drumheller Dragons has been selected as the 2009-2010 recipient of the Stewy Stewart Memorial Trophy.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

MJHL announces All-Star team selections

Press Release

The MJHL’s all-star teams have been announced by Commissioner Kim Davis.

“Every player should be commended for their outstanding performance over the regular season,” said Davis. “These selections are extremely difficult to make. The talent level our league is reflective in how difficult it was to select these respective teams.”

1St All-Star Team

Forwards

Shane Luke Dauphin Kings

Paul Vandevelde Waywayseecappo Wolverines

Shelby Gray Swan Valley Stampeders



Defencemen

Chris Delalande Selkirk Steelers

Clark Byczynski Swan Valley Stampeders



Goaltender

Matt Krahn OCN Blizzard



2nd Team All Star Team



Forwards

Brett Chartier Winnipeg Saints

Joel Ridgeway Selkirk Steelers

Colan Jackson Selkirk Steelers



Defencemen

Dale Warkentin OCN Blizzard

Paul Bonar Winnipeg Blues



Goaltender

Jason Kasdorf Portage Terriers







Rookie All-Star Team



Forwards

Bryn Chyzyk Dauphin Kings

Brent Wold Portage Terriers

Brett Pinkerton Waywayseecappo Wolverines



Defencemen

Yvan Pattyn Portage Terriers

Landon Peel Swan Valley Stampeders



Goaltender

Reed Peters Winkler Flyers

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

2011 BCHL award winners named

Press Release

Voting has finished and the award winners for the 2010-11 British Columbia Hockey League season have been determined. Ballots were distributed to each team and coaches submitted their votes Feb. 21.

Award winners are as follows:

Vern Dye Memorial Trophy (Most Valuable Player)
Coastal Conference – Matt Garbowsky, Powell River
Interior Conference – Joey Laleggia, Penticton

Bruce Allison Memorial Trophy (Rookie of the Year)
Coastal Conference – Destry Straight, Coquitlam
Interior Conference – Bryce Gervais, Salmon Arm

Top Defenceman Award
Coastal Conference – Justin Dasilva, Powell River
Interior Conference – Joey Laleggia, Penticton

Bob Fenton Trophy (Most Sportsmanlike Player)
Coastal Conference – Brad McGowan, Surrey
Interior Conference – Grayson Downing, Westside

Joe Tenant Memorial Trophy (Coach of the Year)
Coastal Conference – Kent Lewis, Powell River
Interior Conference – Tim Kehler, Salmon Arm

Non-voting trophies are as follows:

Brett Hull Trophy (Top Scorer) – Mike Hammond, Salmon Arm (93 points)

Goaltending Award (For lowest goals-against average with minimum of 1000 minutes played) – Michael Garteig, Powell River (1.69* New BCHL record)

Wally Forslund Memorial Trophy (For goalie tandem with lowest combined goals-against average) – Michael Garteig/Sean Maguire, Powell River (1.88)

Ron Boileau Memorial Trophy (Regular Season Champions) – Powell River Kings

Announcements for league all-stars and the all-rookie team will follow later this week.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

CHL Announces BMO CHL MasterCard Top 10 Rankings

Press Release

Toronto, ON – The Canadian Hockey League today announced the BMO CHL MasterCard Top 10 Rankings for week 22 of the 2010-11 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 22

Rank
Team (Record)
Last Week Rank
Number of Weeks Ranked
1
Saint John Sea Dogs (49-5-1-2)
1
19
2
Saskatoon Blades (46-12-0-2)
2
22
3
Montreal Juniors (42-9-4-4)
4
16
4
Mississauga St. Michael's Majors (42-12-0-2)
3
22
5
Red Deer Rebels (41-14-3-4)
5
13
6
Quebec Remparts (40-15-1-2)
6
21
7
Portland Winterhawks (40-16-0-3)
9
17
8
Owen Sound Attack (38-16-1-3)
8
14
9
Niagara IceDogs (36-14-2-4)
7
7
10
Drummondville Voltigeurs (38-14-5-2)
-
10





Honourable Mention:



Ottawa 67's (37-17-1-2)
10
7

Kootenay Ice (39-18-1-2)
-
10

Saginaw Spirit (37-16-3-1)
-
17
(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

WHEAT KINGS RECALL WALTZ

Press Release

Brandon, MB. -- The Brandon Wheat Kings will have a new face in the lineup Wednesday night when they kick off a 2-game Western Hockey League series in Saskatoon against the first place Blades.

The Wheat Kings, who will be putting a 5-game winning streak on the line tonight, have announced that 15-year old defenceman Colton Waltz has been recalled from the Alberta AAA Midget Hockey League.

A native of Lloydminster, the 6' 170 lb Waltz was Brandon's first selection (3rd round, 65th overall) in the 2010 WHL Bantam Draft.

Waltz is a member of the Lloydmister Baker Hughes Bobcats. The Cats finished the regular season with a record of 12-17-5, good for 29 points and sixth place in the Dodge Division.

The Wheat Kings meanwhile occupy seventh place in the WHL's Eastern Conference with a record of 25-28-1-7, good for 58 points.

Brandon is currently one point back of the sixth place Edmonton Oil Kings and three ahead of the eighth place Prince Albert Raiders. The Lethbridge Hurricanes meanwhile have pulled to within six points of Brandon as teams battle one another for the final three playoff spots in the East Division.

Brandon will conclude this week's 2-game series in Saskatoon on Friday night, before returning home to play the Regina Pats on Saturday.

Tickets to Saturday's game are on sale now at the Keystone Centre box office, by calling 726-3555 or online at ticketmaster.ca

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Team West captures Top Prospects championship

Press Release

Team West was crowned champions of the second North American Hockey League (NAHL) Top Prospects Tournament of the season on Tuesday at the Ice Cube in Ann Arbor, Mich., after finishing the event with a 2-1 record.

Team West won the head-to head tiebreaker over Team Central, which also finished with a 2-1 mark but lost to the West on the first day of the tournament, 6-2.

In Team West’s 5-3 victory over Team South (1-2) on the final day of the event, forward Dakota Mason (Dawson Creek Rage) notched the game-winning goal and two assists, while forward Matt Thompson (Kenai River Brown Bears) tallied a goal and an assist.

Between the pipes for the West, Landon Peterson (Alaska Avalanche) stopped 12 of 14 shots, while Bemidji State University recruit Andrew Walsh (Dawson Creek) made nine saves.

View the box score here.

In the final game of the tournament, Team Central upended Team North (1-2), 3-1. Forward Zac Frischmon (Coulee Region Chill) collected a pair of goals in the win, with forward Charlie Adams (Austin Bruins) striking for the game-winning marker.

In goal for Team Central, Frederick Leisner (Aberdeen Wings) turned away 14 of 15 shots, and Jake Williams (Alexandria Blizzard) made 15 saves.

View the box score here.

All Top Prospects Tournament games can be viewed as archives via the Internet through FASTHockey.com.

The NAHL is auctioning off all game-worn player jerseys from the Top Prospects Tournament through eBay. The auction closes on Saturday, Feb. 26. Bids can be placed at NAHL.com/Auction.

At the Top Prospects Tournament, which ran from Feb. 20-22, four teams - Team Central, Team North, Team South and Team West - played a three-game round robin.

At the NAHL’s first Top Prospects Tournament of the season, which was held from Dec. 5-7 in Walpole, Mass., four teams comprised of the NAHL’s top committed and un-committed college players, including those recognized on the NHL Central Scouting Bureau’s Players to Watch list for 2011 draft-eligibles, played a three-game round robin.


(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

U18 schedule change

Press Release

ZURICH – The semi-finals of the 2011 IIHF World U18 Championship in Crimmitschau and Dresden, Germany, have been moved by one day.

Originally scheduled for April 22, the two semi-final games will be played one day later on April 23 at 14:30 and 18:30 local time respectively. The fifth-place game on April 23 will be played at 10:30. All games of the final round will be staged in Crimmitschau.

The games had to be moved because state law in Saxony doesn’t allow sport events to be staged on Good Friday. All participants agreed with the proposed change and approved the new schedule that complies with the IIHF’s Sport Regulations.

The relegation round games in Dresden are not affected as no games were scheduled on April 22.


(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Sherbinin is 13th Warrior to accept NCAA Div. I scholarship

Press Release

Westsdie Warriors head coach Darren Yopyk is pleased to announce 17-year-old rookie defenceman Brayden Sherbinin has accepted an NCAA Division I scholarship to attend Quinnipiac University, of the Eastern College Athletic Association.

Sherbinin will complete this year plus two more seasons for the Warriors, preparing himself to play for the Bobcats in 2013. The 6-foot-1, 180-pound Kelowna product has played 47 games this year, registering four goals and eight assists, while racking up 44 penalty minutes.

He becomes the 13th player to commit to a Division I institution on this year’s squad. That is most in not only the BCHL but across all of Canadian Junior A hockey.

“This is an exciting day for Brayden, as he continues to grow into an exceptional prospect in the BCHL and beyond,” said Yopyk. “Quinnipiac has recruited a very good young man who will be a tremendous asset to their institution on the ice, in the classroom, and in their community. Brayden will help build on an already storied tradition at Quinnipiac.

“As an organization, we continue to demonstrate we are meeting our mandate of developing players and moving them forward in their hockey and academic careers. We are proud that the majority of players that play for us secure scholarships in either the NCAA or in Canada, in the CIS or ACAC.”

The Warriors congratulate Brayden and his family for receiving a scholarship to help him reach his ultimate goal of playing in the NHL while pursuing a college degree.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

QMJHL names scholastic players of the month

Press Release

After compiling the latest school results, team academic consultants from around the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League today released the names of the Scholastic Players of the Month for January.

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 at school. The players are selected for their school results, their implication, the school-hockey conciliation, their team spirit and their on-ice performances.

It’s important to note that more than 94.5% of QMJHL players took classes during the 2010 Fall semester.

Here are the laureates for the month of January:

Acadie-Bathurst Titan
Yoan Pinette
Cégep@distance – Humanities Sciences

Baie-Comeau Drakkar
Pierre-Alexandre Ouellet
Cégep de Baie-Comeau – Applied Sciences

Cape Breton Screaming Eagles
Brad Cuzner
Cape Breton University – Arts

Chicoutimi Saguenéens
Danick Emond
Cégep de Chicoutimi – Humanities Sciences

Drummondville Voltigeurs
André Bouvet-Morrissette
UQTR – Physical Education

Gatineau Olympiques
David Weckworth
All Saints Catholic High School – Grade 12

Halifax Mooseheads
Gabriel Desjardins
Prince Andrew High School – High School

Lewiston MAINEiacs
Michael Chaput
Kaplan University – General studies

Moncton Wildcats
Patrick Downe
Mount Allison University – Administration

Montreal Juniors
Alex Micallef
Concordia University – Exercise Science and Business

PEI Rocket
Jean-Sébastien Fournier
Cégep@distance – Humanities Sciences

Quebec Remparts
Jimmy Appleby
Cégep de Limoilou – Applied Sciences

Rimouski Océanic
Liam O’Brien
Harrison Trimble High School – Grade 11

Rouyn-Noranda Huskies
Anthony Verret
Cégep de l’Abitibi-Témiscamingue - Humanities Sciences

Saint John Sea Dogs
Jonathan Huberdeau
St. Malachy’s High School – High School

Shawinigan Cataractes
Maximilien Le Sieur
Shawinigan College – Humanities Sciences

Val-d’Or Foreurs
Thierry Comtois
Cégep de Val-d’Or – Humanities Sciences

Victoriaville Tigres
Yanni Gourde
Cégep de Victoriaville – Applied Sciences

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Tuesday, February 22, 2011

North, Central skate to Top Prospects wins

Press Release

Team North (1-1) and Team Central (1-1) skated to wins on the second day of the three-day North American Hockey League (NAHL) Top Prospects Tournament on Monday at the Ice Cube in Ann Arbor, Mich.

In Team North’s 6-2 victory over Team West (1-1), forward Tim Opie (Traverse City North Stars) rang up two goals, including the game-winner, while RJ Kleiman (St. Louis Bandits), Cody Wydo (Motor City Metal Jackets) and Ross Mauermann (Janesville Jets) each picked up a goal and an assist.

Goaltender David Jacobson (Janesville) made 29 saves in the victory.

View the box score here.

Forward Connor Gaarder (Coulee Region Chill) recorded a hat trick while forwards Andy Singerhouse (Owatonna Express), Zac Frischmon (Coulee Region) and Nick Widing (Owatonna) also fashioned three-point nights in Team Central’s 8-3 triumph over Team South (1-1).

In goal for Team Central, Frederick Leisner (Aberdeen Wings) stopped 15 of 16 shots and Jake Williams (Alexandria Blizzard) made 11 saves.

View the box score here.

On the third and final day of the tournament, Team West will face off against Team South (9:30 a.m. local time) and Team Central will play Team North (12:15 p.m.).

All Top Prospects Tournament games can be viewed live via the Internet through FASTHockey.com.

The NAHL is auctioning off all game-worn player jerseys from the Top Prospects Tournament through eBay. Bids can be placed at NAHL.com/Auction.

At the Top Prospects Tournament, which runs from Feb. 20-22, four teams - Team Central, Team North, Team South and Team West - are playing a three-game round robin.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

USHL Honors - Week 21

Press Release

The United States Hockey League today announced the weekly award winners for the 21st week of the 2010-11 USHL regular season.

Congratulations to a trio of players from the Lincoln Stars as forward Austin Hervey was named CCM Offensive Player of the Week; defenseman Chris Casto was selected as CCM Defensive Player of the Week; and Kevin Murdock earned honors as the Reebok USHL Goaltender of the Week.

Hervey scored three points (2g, 1a) and posted a plus-three rating to help the Stars win three games in four nights. His third-period goal proved to be the game-winner as the Stars knocked off League-leading Green Bay 4-3 on Wednesday. It was the first goal of the season for the 18-year-old native of Brighton, Michigan. Hervey dished out an assist in Friday's 4-1 win against Fargo and then tallied the game-winning goal in Saturday's 2-0 win to knock off first-place Omaha in a Western Conference matchup. Hervey has appeared in 29 games during his second USHL season after competing in 11 USHL contests in 2009-10 with Team USA.

Casto recorded three points (1g, 2a) and a plus-three rating in three victories for the Stars. The defenseman tallied a goal and one assist in Wednesday's victory against Green Bay. The 19-year-old also fired a game high five shots on goal. Casto dished out an assist in Friday's 4-1 win as the Stars earned their fourth straight home win and then helped Lincoln earn a 2-0 shutout on Saturday. The native of Stillwater, Minnesota is playing in his first USHL season and has collected 20 points (4g, 16a) in 40 games while tying for the team lead with a plus-16 rating. It is the second time in a span of three weeks that he has earned the weekly USHL award.

Murdock posted a 1.33 goals-against-average and a .948 save percentage while earning all three wins for the Lincoln Stars. He made 24 saves on Wednesday as the Stars defeated Green Bay and then stopped 25 shots in Friday's 4-1 win over Fargo. Murdock, 20, completed the week by stopping all 24 shots he faced in the 2-0 victory against Omaha. It was the fourth shutout of the season for the native of Bradenton, Florida which ties for first among all USHL goaltenders. It was also his 20th win of the season – the second most in the League. It is the fourth time this season he has won the weekly USHL goaltending award.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Titan’s Olivier Roy Named Vaughn CHL Goaltender of the Week

Press Release

Toronto, ON – The Canadian Hockey League today announced that Olivier Roy of the Acadie-Bathurst Titan is the Vaughn CHL Goaltender of the Week for the week ending February 21. Roy becomes the second straight goaltender from Canada’s National Junior Team to win this award after posting a 3-0-0-0 record including one shutout with a goals-against-average of 1.30 and save percentage of .957.

Roy made 30 saves to record his third shutout of the season as second star of a 3-0 win over the Shawinigan Cataractes on Sunday. The shutout was the 14th of his career which is one shy of the QMJHL record of 15 currently held by Ryan Mior. Roy also made 28 saves on Friday as part of a 7-1 win over the Victoriaville Tigres after kicking aside 30 shots and denying all three shootout attempts to beat the Val d’Or Foreurs 4-3 on Wednesday.

Roy, a 19-year-old from Causapscal, Quebec, is playing in his fourth QMJHL season. A fifth round selection of the Edmonton Oilers in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft, Roy has a 24-12-1-0 record with a 2.78 goals-against-average and .911 save percentage with the Titan this season.

Also considered for the award was Peter Di Salvo of the Oshawa Generals who won three games with a goals-against-average of 1.95 and save percentage of .941. Michael Snider of the Calgary Hitmen won twice in two starts with a goals-against-average of 0.96 and save percentage of .971.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Wheat Kings’ Mark Stone Named CHL Player of the Week

Press Release

Toronto, ON – The Canadian Hockey League today announced that Mark Stone of the Brandon Wheat Kings is the CHL Player of the Week for the week ending February 21. Stone tallied 13 points in three games including four goals and nine assists with a plus-minus rating of plus-6.

Stone hit the ice last Tuesday night with the best game of his WHL career scoring two goals and adding four assists for six points as first star of a 7-4 win over the WHL’s top team the Saskatoon Blades. He followed that up with three points on Friday night including a goal and two assists as part of a 10-1 win over the Swift Current Broncos in the first half of a home-and-home series. Stone picked up four points on Saturday to wrap up his week and the series against the Broncos with a 6-5 win where he was named first star with a goal and three assists to extend his point streak to 11 straight games.

Stone, an 18-year-old from Winnipeg, Manitoba, is playing in his third full season with the Wheat Kings. Selected by the Ottawa Senators in the sixth round of the 2010 NHL Entry Draft, Stone currently sits third in WHL scoring with 86 points in 60 games.

2011 NHL Entry Draft prospect Sean Couturier of the Drummondville Voltigeurs was also considered for the award after scoring five goals in two games. Toronto Maple Leafs prospect Greg McKegg of the Erie Otters was nominated from the OHL for the third time this season after scoring four goals and four assists for eight points in three games.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

DC, Pikes Peak, Rocky Mountain crowned NAPHL champs

Press Release

The DC Capitals (18U), Pikes Peak Miners (16U) and Rocky Mountain RoughRiders (14U) were crowned champions of the North American Prospects Hockey League (NAPHL) after winning the title games in their respective divisions on Monday at the Ice Cube in Ann Arbor, Mich.

Defenseman Josh Bretner notched the game-winning goal and an assist as the Capitals downed the Rocky Mountain RoughRiders in the 18U championship game, 3-2.  In goal, Paul Bourbeau turned aside 12 shots.

View the box score here.
In the 16U championship contest, goaltender Danny Kowalski stopped all 21 shots he faced as the Pikes Peak Miners blanked the California Titans, 2-0. Forwards James Huerena and Jeremy Rezaeepour scored the Miners’ goals.

View the box score here.

Forward Brandon Fushimi rang up a hat trick, including the game-winning goal, and an assist in the Rocky Mountain RoughRiders’ 5-2 triumph over the Motor City Metal Jackets in the championship game of the 14U division.  In goal, Dean Shatzer made 10 saves.

View the box score here.

Last year in San Jose, Calif., the California Titans (18U) and Pikes Peak Miners (16U) skated to the NAPHL’s inaugural championships in their respective divisions.


(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Saints Capture Third Straight Regular Season Title

Press Release

The Spruce Grove Saints have captured the Dave Duchak Trophy as the 2010-2011 AJHL Regular Season Champions for the third consecutive season. The Saints completed the Regular Season with a record of 48-8-4 and 100 points, the third consecutive 100-point season for the Saints.

By securing 1st place in the North Division, the Saints have guaranteed themselves a first round bye in the 2011 AJHL Enerflex Cup Playoffs. The top seven teams in each Division will qualify for the 2011 AJHL Playoffs with the highest ranked seed awarded home ice advantage. The defending League Champion Saints will play the lowest seed of the teams advancing to Round Two in the North Division.

Three members of the Spruce Grove Saints have been selected as finalists for the 2010-2011 AJHL League Awards. The finalists include Felix-Antoine Poulin (Outstanding Defenceman), Sammy Spurrell (Rookie of the Year), and Vincenzo Marozzi (Top Goaltender). The 2010-2011 AJHL North Division All-Rookie Team boasts three members of the Spruce Grove Saints (Corey Chorneyko, Dustin Fostvelt, Sammy Spurrell), and defenceman Felix-Antoine Poulin was also named to the 2010-2011 AJHL North Division All-League Team.

Five players from the 2010-2011 Saints have committed to continue their athletic and academic careers at a post-secondary institute (Brett Switzer, Scott Allen, Bryce VanBrabant, Mat Knoll, Josh Koper).

Dave Duchak Trophy (10 year history)

2001-2002 -- Canmore Eagles (47 wins, 14 losses, 3 ties)

2002-2003 -- Sherwood Park Crusaders (43 wins, 13 losses, 8 ties)

2003-2004 -- Camrose Kodiaks (42 wins, 14 losses, 4 ties)

2004-2005 -- Camrose Kodiaks (48 wins, 8 losses, 8 ties)

2005-2006 -- Fort McMurray Oil Barons (40 wins, 14 losses, 2 ties, 4 overtime losses)

2006-2007 -- Fort Saskatchewan Traders (45 wins, 11 losses, 0 ties, 4 overtime losses)

2007-2008 -- Camrose Kodiaks (49 wins, 8 losses, 0 ties, 5 overtime losses)

2008-2009 -- Spruce Grove Saints (46 wins, 7 losses, 4 ties, 5 overtime losses)

2009-2010 - Spruce Grove Saints (52 wins, 4 losses, 1 tie, 3 overtime losses)

2010-2011 - Spruce Grove Saints (48 wins, 8 losses, 4 overtime losses)

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)