Wednesday, November 30, 2011

Preliminary junior roster coming Monday

Press Release

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. - The preliminary roster for the 2012 U.S. National Junior Team will be unveiled Monday (Dec. 5) at 5:30 p.m. EST exclusively on the NHL Network's Cisco NHL Live.


The preliminary roster will include a yet-to-be-determined number of candidates who will gather Dec. 16 in Camrose, Alta., for a training camp in preparation for the 2012 International Ice Hockey Federation World Junior Championship, Dec. 26-Jan. 5, in Calgary and Edmonton, Alta.


The U.S. National Junior Team's pre-tournament camp will take place Dec. 17-23 in Alberta, Canada. The camp will include practices at the Edgeworth Centre in Camrose, Alta., along with three exhibition games in Red Deer, Camrose and Three Hills, Alta. A full camp schedule is below.


The final 22-player U.S. roster for the 2012 IIHF World Junior Championship will be announced on Dec. 22 following Team USA's pre-tournament game against Switzerland on Dec. 21.

NOTES: The U.S. National Junior Team is coming off back-to-back medals in the IIHF World Junior Championship for the first time ever, having earned a bronze medal in last year's event in Buffalo, N.Y., and a gold medal at the 2010 World Junior Championship in Saskatoon, Sask. ... Dean Blais, head men's ice hockey coach at the University of Nebraska Omaha, will serve as head coach of the 2012 U.S. National Junior Team. He will be assisted by Scott Sandelin, head men's ice hockey coach at the University of Minnesota Duluth; Tom Ward, head ice hockey coach of the Shattuck-St. Mary's School's boys' prep team; and Joe Exter, assistant men's ice hockey coach at Ohio State University ... Jim Johannson, USA Hockey's assistant executive director of hockey operations, is serving as the general manager of Team USA for the third consecutive year. Tim Taylor (Guilford, Conn.), former U.S. Olympic Men's Ice Hockey Team head coach and longtime Yale University men's ice hockey team head coach, is also serving his third straight year as Team USA's director of player personnel ... From Aug. 6-13, 45 of the top U.S. under-20 players took part in USA Hockey's National Junior Evaluation Camp in Lake Placid, N.Y. For the full roster and camp coverage, click here.

Team USA 2012 IIHF World Junior Championship Pre-Tournament Schedule
Dec. 17-23 • Alberta, Canada

Date Event Location*

Time (MST)
Sat., Dec. 17 Practice Camrose 10 - 11:30 a.m.
Practice Camrose 5 - 6 p.m.
Sun., Dec. 18 Practice Camrose 10 - 11:30 a.m.
Practice Camrose 5 - 6 p.m.
Mon., Dec. 19 Practice Camrose 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Tues., Dec. 20 Practice Camrose 10 - 11:30 a.m.
Game vs. Russia Red Deer 7 p.m.
Wed., Dec. 21 Practice Camrose 11 - 11:45 a.m.
Game vs. Switzerland Camrose 7:30 p.m.
Thurs., Dec. 22 Practice Camrose 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Fri., Dec. 23 Practice Camrose 10 - 11 a.m.
Game vs. Slovakia Three Hills 7 p.m.

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

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

Press Release

Toronto, ON – The Ontario Hockey League today announced the sixth edition of the weekly minor midget rankings for the 2012 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 13-18, 2012, at the Hershey Centre in Mississauga, ON.

Minor Midget Rankings for the 2012 OHL Cup Showcase Tournament – Week 6


RANK TEAM LEAGUE LAST WEEK RANK WEEKS IN RANKINGS
1 Toronto Marlies GTHL 1 6
2 Mississauga Rebels GTHL 3 6
3 Detroit Belle Tire USA 2 6
4 Cleveland Barons USA - 3
5 Don Mills Flyers GTHL 7 4
6 London Jr. Knights - Gold ALLIANCE 4 6
7 Southern Tier Admirals OMHA 5 6
8 Chicago Mission USA 8 6
9 North York Rangers GTHL - 1
10 Ottawa Jr. 67's ODMHA - 1






Honourable Mention



York Simcoe Express OMHA 10 1

Ottawa Valley Titans ODMHA 6 5

Vaughan Kings GTHL 9 6

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.

Last season the Toronto Marlies won their third OHL Cup title in seven years with a thrilling 5-3 win over the Don Mills Flyers.  First round OHL picks David Perklin of the Marlies and Max Domi of the Flyers were named Players of the Game in the Championship Final which was broadcast live on Sportsnet Ontario.

A total of 147 players that competed in the 2011 OHL Cup Showcase Tournament were selected in the 2011 OHL Priority Selection including 16 players chosen in the first round.  The Marlies led all minor midget teams with 13 players that were later selected in the 2011 OHL Priority Selection including first round picks Nicholas Ritchie who was selected second overall by the Peterborough Petes, Jordan Subban who was selected fifth overall by the Belleville Bulls, and Perklin who was chosen 17th overall by the Ottawa 67’s.  The Flyers had 12 players selected including first round picks Max Domi, Adam Bateman, and Darnell Nurse who was the third overall pick to the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds.

Three of the last four players selected first overall in the NHL Entry Draft are OHL and OHL Cup graduates including Taylor Hall of the Edmonton Oilers, John Tavares of the New York Islanders, and Steven Stamkos of the Tampa Bay Lightning.  2011 NHL Rookie of the Year Jeff Skinner of the Carolina Hurricanes also competed in this event.


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

Winterhawks Sign Zach Paterson & Tyler Sandhu

Press Release

The Portland Winterhawks have signed their two second round picks from the 2011 Western Hockey League Bantam Draft, defenseman Zach Paterson and center Tyler Sandhu.

Paterson was drafted 34th overall in the May Bantam Draft by the Hawks, in a pick the team acquired in a trade with the Victoria Royals. Sandhu was taken by Portland 42nd overall.

Paterson had nine goals and 15 assists for 24 points in 29 games last season with the Edmonton South Side Athletic Club of the Alberta Minor Hockey League.

Sandhu had 46 goals and 45 assists for 91 points in 40 games with the Seafair Islanders of the Seafair Minor Hockey Association. This season with the Greater Vancouver Canadians of the British Columbia Major Midget League, Sandhu has 11 goals and nine assists for 20 points in 16 games.

“We are excited to have Zach and Tyler under contract,” said Winterhawks General Manager & Head Coach Mike Johnston. “Zach is a strong-skating two-way defenseman and Tyler is a skilled center. Both players fit in perfectly with our style of play and needs for the future.”

Both players played in the WHL Prospects U16 Challenge from October 27 - 30 in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan. The tournament is for the Top 20 players in each province from the 1996 age group.

(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 11 of the 2011-12 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 11

Rank
Team (Record)
Last Week Rank
Number of Weeks Ranked
1
London Knights (20-5-0-1)
1
10
2
Saint John Sea Dogs (24-7-0-1)
3
11
3
Tri-City Americans (19-6-0-0)
5
8
4
Quebec Remparts (21-5-2-1)
2
8
5
Saskatoon Blades (18-8-0-1)
4
5
6
Shawinigan Cataractes (19-8-1-2)
8
9
7
Kootenay Ice (18-5-1-2)
10
4
8
Plymouth Whalers (17-8-2-1)
6
4
9
Victoriaville Tigres (19-9-0-1)
9
11
10
Sarnia Sting (15-6-1-4)
7
8





Honourable Mention:



Portland Winterhawks (17-9-1-1)
-
2

Kitchener Rangers (17-7-1-0)
-
0

Vancouver Giants (17-9-1-1)
-
0


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

AFFILIATE LISTER CECERE TO DEBUT THIS WEEK FOR FIGHTING SAINTS

Press Release

DUBUQUE, Iowa – One week after Jarrid Privitera made noticeable contributions as the Fighting Saints won two out of three games, another Fighting Saints affiliate list player will have an opportunity to make his USHL debut. Garrett Cecere, a 5’9” 170 pound defenseman, will join the team for the week of practice, and will take to the ice for at least one of two games as the Fighting Saints play Cedar Rapids on the road on Friday and at home on Saturday.

Cecere, a West Des Moines native who was selected by the Fighting Saints with their fifth-round pick in the 2011 Future's Draft, spent last season with Shattuck-St. Mary's U16 team. In his first season of junior hockey with the Janesville Jets of the NAHL, Cecere has amassed two goals and ten assists to go along with a +7 rating in twenty-four games. He committed during the offseason to attend Colorado College after his time in the USHL.

Fighting Saints head coach Jim Montgomery is excited to get a glimpse of what Cecere can bring to the table.

“He’s an extremely competitive and intelligent hockey player, and we think we’ll get to see how he has adjusted to junior hockey,” he said. “We’ll get a chance to see how he’s going to be for us both right now and next year.”

Players on the affiliate list, such as Cecere and Privitera, are protected by their USHL teams for use in future seasons. Teams may use an affiliate list player in up to six games throughout the year to give the player a taste of the league.

“The affiliate list allows us to bring players in and show them the culture and what it’s like to be a Fighting Saint,” Montgomery said. “We want to get them acclimated to the culture and give them an idea of what life in Dubuque is like. That will get them excited to want to be a Fighting Saint and have a great year where they are playing.”

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

SILVERTIPS ACQUIRE CARON FROM BLAZERS

Press Release

EVERETT, WA – Everett Silvertips Vice President/General Manager Doug Soetaert today announced that the club has acquired veteran defenseman Josh Caron from the Kamloops Blazers in exchange for a fourth-round pick in the 2014 WHL Draft. Their fourth trade in the past three weeks fills the Silvertips’ vacant 20-year-old spot, as Caron joins forward Josh Birkholz and defenseman Brennan Yadlowski as the club’s contingent of 1991-born players.

Caron has spent his entire WHL career in Kamloops, appearing in 128 games with the Blazers since breaking into the league in 2008-09. Although undrafted, he signed a free agent contract with the NHL’s Minnesota Wild after attending training camp with the club in 2010. Measuring in at 6-4 and 212 pounds, Caron instantly becomes the biggest player on Everett’s roster.

A native of Campbell River, British Columbia, Caron has already tied his career high with six points this season (0g/6a) and sports a plus/minus rating of +9 in 20 games. He has also racked up 88 penalty minutes (including nine fighting majors) so far this year, placing him second only to Everett’s Jesse Mychan among all WHL players in that category. Originally a third-round pick (#52 overall) of the Blazers in the 2006 WHL Bantam Draft, Caron has totaled 15 points (2g/13a), 375 penalty minutes and a +10 rating in his WHL career.

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

Raiders Recall Mahura

Press Release

Prince Albert SK – The Prince Albert Raiders have recalled 16-year-old forward Luke Mahura from the St. Albert Raiders Midget AAA for the remainder of the season.

Mahura is currently in sixth overall in Alberta Midget Hockey League scoring, with 13 goals and 8 assists in 21 games played. The St. Albert, Alberta product was drafted in the 2nd round, 28th overall by the Raiders in the 2010 Western Hockey League Bantam Draft.

“We are pleased to bring Luke back for the season. He has gotten off to a great start in St. Albert and are excited to watch his continued growth and development with us at the Western Hockey League level,” said Raiders General Manager Bruno Campese.

Mahura will arrive on Friday and will be available to play this weekend.

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

Storm RADIO NETWORK SWITCHING DIALS Saturday

Press Release

KEARNEY, Neb. – The games this Friday and Saturday in Fargo, N.D. between the Tri-City Storm and Fargo Force will air on The Breeze 94.5 FM. The Viaero Wireless Pre-Game Show will start at 7:15 p.m. on Friday and 6:45 p.m. on Saturday.

The game on Saturday night was originally scheduled to air on Classic Hits 98.9 FM, but was moved to accommodate for a possible conflict with the Kearney High Wrestling Invite.

In addition to the radio, the game will be streamed online at www.stormhockey.com with a free audio link to the broadcast. Free downloads of every game broadcast will be available through the Platte River Radio stations’ websites.

Also, games are available to listen via a smart phone depending on which station is carrying the broadcast of that game through the following links: m.kkpr.com, m.kliqfm.com or m.espnsuperstation.com.

Platte River Radio owns Classic Hits 98.9 FM (KKPR), The Breeze 94.5 FM (KLIQ), and ESPN Superstation 1460/1550 AM (KXPN, KICS), KHAS 1230 AM in Hastings. KKPR and KLIQ are 100,000-watt signals that can be heard across central Nebraska in a 100-mile radius from the Tri-Cities, while KXPN and KICS are best heard in Kearney and Hastings.

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

Tuesday, November 29, 2011

Nikita Kolesnikovs suspended for two games

Press Release

The Disciplinary Prefect of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League, Raymond Bolduc, today suspended Blainville-Boisbriand Armada defenseman Nikita Kolesnikovs for two games following an illegal hit from behind which occurred during Friday’s game versus the Rimouski Océanic.

The decision was rendered after reviewing the videotape of the incident, gathering the testimonies from the players and the organizations involved, reading the officials’ report and consulting the independent committee in the matter of disciplinary sanctions.

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

DENHAM COMMITS TO ROBERT MORRIS

Press Release

Oakville Blades forward Brandon Denham (photo credit - Craig Campbell/HHOF) has confirmed his commitment to join the Robert Morris University Colonials beginning with the 2012-13 AHA season.

After playing three games for the Blades in 2009-10, the 6'4", 205 lbs. native of Milton, Ontario joined the club full-time last season, recording 32 points in 50 games and helped the Blades reach the OJHL Final before falling to the Wellington Dukes. Thus far this season, Denham has continued his fine play with 10 goals and 19 points in 23 games played for Oakville.

“We are thrilled for Brandon and congratulate him on this step forward in his education and his hockey career,” said Carlo Coccimiglio, President of the Blades. “Brandon earned this opportunity with a lot of hard work,” said Coccimiglio. “He has a hard-nosed, aggressive style of play that creates scoring opportunities and makes him a great teammate.”

Congratulations to Brandon and best of luck the rest of the season and beyond!

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

Phantoms Defenseman Chooses Princeton University

Press Release

The Youngstown Phantoms announced that defenseman Kevin Liss has committed to attend Princeton University beginning next season.

Liss has collected four points (1g, 3a) in 16 games during his second USHL with the Phantoms while being one of the team’s top shutdown defensemen. He scored his first career USHL goal on October 22nd vs. Team USA. The 6-0, 200-pound defenseman from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania dished out three assists and posted a plus-five rating last season in 42 games as a USHL rookie. Liss also was a co-recipient of the USHL Scholar-Athlete Award for the 2010-11 season. He maintained a 4.0 grade point average at Ursuline High School in Youngstown during the season before returning to Upper Saint Clair High School in his hometown. Liss was also a member of the National Honor Society and received a Certificate of Merit by the state of Pennsylvania for his exceptional performance on both the College Board SAT (2120) and ACT (31) tests.

“We as an organization could not be more proud of Kevin,” Head Coach Anthony Noreen said. “Kevin said from the beginning that he was not going to sacrifice education for hockey, or hockey for education. He wanted a place that had the best of both worlds and Princeton University certainly has that.”

“It’s great for our guys to see someone who plays the game so hard and gives so much in the weight room and on the ice every day, but who also gives just as much to his academics,” Noreen said. “Kevin does a great job of leading by example.”

Liss will be joined at Princeton University by Phantoms teammate Mike Ambrosia who is also committed to the Ivy League school. Omaha Lancers forward Johnathan Liau and Sioux Falls Stampede forward Kyle Rankin are also committed to Princeton at the conclusion of their USHL careers.

Princeton University is a member of the ECAC and has nine USHL alumni on the roster this season; Andrew Ammon (Lincoln Stars), Jack Berger (Des Moines Buccaneers), Matt Farris (Sioux Falls Stampede), Will MacDonald (Indiana Ice), Eric Meland (Lincoln Stars), Alec Rush (Tri-City/Sioux Falls/Lincoln/Omaha), Michael Sdao (Lincoln Stars), Aaron Ave (Omaha Lancers), and Tucker Brockett (Chicago/Tri-City/Lincoln).

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

Ice Captain Commits to Quinnipiac University

Press Release

The Indiana Ice announced that defenseman Alex Barron has committed to play collegiate hockey at Quinnipiac University beginning next season.

Barron is in his second USHL season with the Ice and has put up 11 points (1g, 10a) in 17 games this season and leads the team with a plus-11 rating. He is tied for fourth among League defensemen in scoring while ranking tied for second with 10 assists. The 20-year-old from Glendora, California was named captain of the Ice this season. Barron scored his first career USHL goal in the 6-2 win vs. Tri-City on October 21st. Last season, he collected 14 assists and a plus-24 rating in 51 games for the Ice.

Barron will see a familiar face when he sets foot on the Quinnipiac University campus as his brother, Loren Barron, is a defenseman on the Bobcats roster. Loren spent the 2008-09 season in the USHL with the Indiana Ice and helped them capture their first-ever Clark Cup title.

Youngstown Phantoms forward Sam Anas is also committed to play hockey at the school following his USHL career. Quinnipiac University is a member of the ECAC and has six USHL alumni on the roster this season; Ben Arnt (Omaha Lancers), Loren Barron (Indiana Ice), Mike Dalhuisen (Chicago Steel/Lincoln Stars), Eric Hartzell (Sioux Falls Stampede), Spencer Heichman (Sioux City Musketeers), and Cory Hibbeler (Lincoln Stars).

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

Garrett Clarke released

Press Release

The Acadie-Bathurst Titan announces they have released 19 yr old defenseman Garrett Clarke for disciplinary reasons.

Clarke had been acquired last season from the Shawinigan Cataractes for a 1st round pick, that pick had then been traded back to the Titan during the off season for Vincent Arseneau.

He had played in 24 games this season, collecting 2 goals and 14 assists.

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

Nepean's Johnston is Corporate Hype POW

Press Release

The Central Canada Tier 1 Junior A Hockey League is pleased to announce that the Corporate Hype Player of the Week is Ryan Johnston of the Nepean Raiders. Johnston’s play was a key to the Raiders earning 5 of the 6 points this past week with wins over the Carleton Place Canadians and Gloucester Rangers, dropping an overtime loss to the same Canadians. He had five points (2G, 3A), the defenseman’s consistency has helped the Raiders maintain the top spot overall in the CCHL. At the half-way mark in the season Johnston leads all defenseman in scoring with 39 points (13G, 26A), as well as 3-star voting with 23 points.

The Canadian Junior Hockey League Top 20 rankings now feature four Central Canada Hockey League (CCHL) teams this week. The Nepean Raiders (24-3-3-1) remain in the Top 10 rising one spot to # 8 in Canada. The Carleton Place Canadians (22-6) drop from # 10 to # 12, the Brockville Braves (21-6-2) are # 19 while the Cornwall Colts (21-6-0-1) earn Honorable Mention status this week.

Honorable Mention: F Tylor Spink (Cornwall Colts) and F Eric Clitsome (Cumberland Grads)

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

WARRIORS ACQUIRE VANSCOURT FROM RAIDERS

Press Release

Moose Jaw, SK.--- The Moose Jaw Warriors have acquired 19 yr old defenseman Tyler Vanscourt from the Prince Albert Raiders in exchange for a 4th and 5th round pick in the 2013 Bantam Draft. Vanscourt, standing 5’11” and weighing 180 lbs, has notched 7 goals and added 10 assists in his 26 games with the Raiders this season

Tyler will report to the Warriors this afternoon and is expected to be in the line up tonight when the Warriors take on the Vancouver Giants.

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

Combat Hockey/NAHL 3 Stars of the Week announced

Press Release

The North American Hockey League (NAHL) today announced the Three Stars of the Week presented by Combat Hockey for the week ending November 27, 2011. The Three Stars of the Week is a weekly feature during the 2011-12 regular season that honors the top performing players each week of the regular season as nominated by their respective teams.

1st Star: Jacob Meyers, goaltender, Alexandria Blizzard
Over the past month, Blizzard goaltender Jacob Meyers, 19, has really thrived since accepting the starting role. It is no coincidence then that so has the Blizzard as a team and this past week was no exception. The Minnetonka, Minnesota native won all three of his starts, giving up just three goals in the three games and posting a 96.6% save percentage as the Blizzard beat Coulee Region, Aberdeen and Austin. On Wednesday, Meyers was perfect stopping all 27 shots in a 4-0 shutout at Coulee Region. On Friday, Meyers stopped 30 of 31 shots in a 4-1 home win over Aberdeen. On Saturday, Meyers completed his perfect week making 28 saves in a 5-2 home win over Austin. “Jacob has been very consistent and helped us win a lot of games in the last month,” said Blizzard head coach Doc DelCastillo. “He seems to be always square to the puck has sound fundamentals. He plays under control, makes the first save and lets his teammates help out after that.”

2nd Star: Jeff Bergh, defenseman, Alaska Avalanche
Since his trade from Alexandria, Avalanche defenseman Jeff Burgh has been lights out for Alaska and has led their resurgence to the top of the West Division. This past week, the blueliner from Hallock, Minnesota scored four goals in three games, which included two game-winning goals in back-to-back games. Bergh, 19, picked up the game-winner on Monday as the Avalanche blanked the Dawson Creek Rage, 4-0. On Friday, Bergh put forth his best performance of the week, recording a hat-trick, including the game-winning goal as Alaska defeated 2nd place Kenai River on the road. “Jeff is a very dynamic, solid, two-way player who pays attention to details,” said Avalanche assistant coach Josh Petrich. “He has been a blessing in disguise since joining our team and he makes those around him better. Has really been one of the key ingredients in our recent success.”

3rd Star: Greg Gibson, forward, Amarillo Bulls
The Amarillo Bulls own the best record in the league and Burlington, Ontario native Greg Gibson is a key reason why. Gibson, 20, posted five points this past week as the Bulls increased their lead in the South Division taking a possible five of six points in their three games. On Wednesday, Gibson recorded a goal and assist in a 4-3 overtime loss against Wichita Falls. After being held scoreless in Amarillo’s 6-2 win on Friday in Topeka, Gibson shined on Saturday, recording two goals (including the game-winner) and an assist as Amarillo swept the Roadrunners on the road with a 4-2 win. “Greg has really come into his own the last couple of weeks. He is shooting the puck more and can attack the opposition with his speed,” said Bulls head coach Dennis Williams. “We expect him to be a big contributor the rest of the season and really improve our special team play.”

Other players nominated were (alphabetical): Will Badner, forward, Traverse City North Stars – Charles Baldwin, forward, New Mexico Mustangs – Brooks Behling, forward, Amarillo Bulls – Ben Carey, forward, Wenatchee Wild – Randy Graham, goaltender, New Mexico Mustangs – Joakim Jutras, goaltender, Texas Tornado – Mitch Kontny, forward, Alaska Avalanche – Tony Kujava, goaltender, Janesville Jets – Travis Maxwell, defenseman, Corpus Christi IceRays – Jacob McDowell, forward, Kalamazoo Jr. K-Wings – Max Milosek, goaltender, Port Huron Fighting Falcons – Mike Moroso, forward, Port Huron Fighting Falcons – Tayler Munson, forward, Fairbanks Ice Dogs – Steve Obarzanek, forward, Aberdeen Wings – John Olen, forward, Janesville Jets – Sean O’Rourke, defenseman, Fairbanks Ice Dogs – Shawn Pauly, forward, Wenatchee Wild – Robbie Payne, forward, Kalamazoo Jr. K-Wings – Jack Prince, forward, Texas Tornado – Jesse Ramsey, defenseman, Kenai River Brown Bears – Tim Shaughnessy, goaltender, Minot Minotauros – Mitchell Snider, forward, Traverse City North Stars.

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

Toronto, ON – The Canadian Hockey League today announced that Portland Winterhawks’ forward Ty Rattie is the CHL Player of the Week after scoring seven goals with five assists for 12 points in four games with a plus-minus rating of plus-8 for the week ending November 27.

Rattie saved his best performance of the week for last scoring a career-high four goals plus an assist for five points on Sunday as first star of a 6-2 win over the Swift Current Broncos.  His week also included a two-assist effort on Friday in a 5-3 win over the Spokane Chiefs after recording a three-point game Wednesday with two goals and one assist as third star of a 7-6 loss to the Tri-City Americans.  His week began with a goal and an assist Tuesday as second star of a 5-2 win over the Regina Pats.

Rattie, an 18-year-old from Airdrie, AB, is playing in his third full WHL season with the Winterhawks and is currently ranked third in WHL scoring with 50 points in 27 games.  The 2011 second round pick of the St. Louis Blues will also attend Canada’s National Junior Team Selection Camp December 10-14 in Calgary.

Also considered for the award this week was Brendan Gaunce of the Belleville Bulls and Nathan MacKinnon of the Halifax Mooseheads.  Gaunce scored five goals and one assist for six points in three games, while MacKinnon had two goals and six assists for eight points in three games.


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

Bulls’ Malcolm Subban Named Vaughn CHL Goaltender of the Week

Press Release

Toronto, ON – The Canadian Hockey League today announced that for the second time this season Malcolm Subban of the Belleville Bulls is the Vaughn CHL Goaltender of the Week after posting a 3-0-0-0 record including a shutout victory with a goals-against-average of 0.67 and save percentage of .978 for the week ending November 27.

Subban began the week making 23 saves on Thursday as part of a 3-1 win over the Erie Otters.  He followed that with his second shutout of the season on Friday stopping all 34 shots faced including 19 in the second period as first star of a 6-0 win over the Guelph Storm.  He helped the Bulls win their third straight game on Sunday with 30 saves as third star of a 4-1 win over the Oshawa Generals.

Subban, a 17-year-old from Rexdale, ON, is playing in his second full season with the Bulls and is currently the OHL’s top netminder with a league-best goals-against-average of 1.89 and save percentage of .938 in 12 starts this season.  He was also recently ranked the top 2012 NHL Entry Draft eligible goaltender in the OHL by NHL Central Scouting in their Preliminary Rankings.

Francois Lacerte of the Gatineau Olympiques received consideration for the second straight week this time with a 1-0-0-2 record posting a goals-against-average of 2.21 and save percentage of .947 making 126 saves on the week.  In the WHL, Eric Comrie of the Tri-City Americans went 2-0-0-0 with a goals-against-average of 1.00 and save percentage of .957.

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

Clippers Bid for 2013 WCC

Press Release

2013 Western Canada Championship April 26th – May 5th 2013

In conjunction with Hockey Canada,the four Westerm Branches and the four (4) Western Canadian Jr. A Hockey Leagues: BCHL, AJHL, SJHL and MJHL, have agreed to move forward with a Western Canadian Championship.

The WCC Tournament will include the four (4) Provincial Champions and the Host Team.

The tournament will consist of thirteen (13) games, ten (10) round robin games, two (2) semifinal games, and one (1) final game. The top two (2) teams will advance to the Royal Bank Cup in Summerside, PEI

The British Columbia Hockey League has been chosen to host the 2013 Western Canadian Championship.

In conjunction with the 40th Anniversary of the Nanaimo Clippers 2012-2013, we are moving forward with a bid to host this inaugural event. It is our sincere hope that we will be successful in bringing this incredible opportunity to the community of Nanaimo.

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

Klippers Deal Jesse Mysiorek To Flin Flon

Press Release

The Flin Flon Bombers won the Jesse Mysiorek sweepstakes on Saturday, completing a three player trade with the Kindersley Klippers.

1991 F Mysiorek (Fort Qu'Appelle SK) is in his third SJHL season, all with the Klippers, and had scored 12-goals and 9-assists in 28-games this year. With Kindersley sitting last in the Sherwood Division, there was word Mysiorek was up for grabs prior to the December 1st roster cut down deadline and it was believed as few as four SJHL clubs were interested in his two-way services.

In exchange for Mysiorek, the Klippers receive the SJHL/CHA playing rights to 1992 F Jesse Mychan (Saskatoon SK) and the SJHL list rights to top prospect 1995 F Connor Gay (Saskatoon SK) as well as future considerations.

Mychan has 5-points in 20-games with the WHL's Everett Silvertips. He had 13-goals and 18-assists in 56-games with Flin Flon last year. Gay is the leading scorer for the Saskatoon Blazers with 13-goals and 11-assists in 18-games.

Kindersley also acquired goaltender Brandon Stone from the Estevan Bruins for future considerations. With Stone in the fold the Klippers were forced to release netminder Fraser Abdallah.

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

Monday, November 28, 2011

Dun posts first BCHL shutout amongst three wins to take POW

Press Release

Cowichan Valley Capitals netminder Derek Dun has been named the British Columbia Hockey League's Player of the Week for the week ending Nov. 27, the league announced Monday.

Dun got his first BCHL shutout with a 1-0 win over the Victoria Grizzlies Saturday to pick up his third win of the week. The Surrey native was named a game star in each of the victories which also included another defeat of Victoria and a win over Nanaimo.

The 6-foot, 170-pound goalie had a 1.00 goals-against average for the week as well as a .961 save percentage. He has equalled his career high in wins with nine for the first-place Caps.

Honourable mentions this week go to Nanaimo Clippers defenceman Graeme McCormack (two games, two goals, three assists, 3rd Star), Penticton Vees forward Connor Reilly (three games, three goals, three assists, 1st Star, 2nd Star), Powell River Kings forward Evan Richardson (three games, two goals, five assists, 1st Star, 2nd Star), Merritt Centennials defenceman Billy Marshall (three games, two goals, 1st Star, 2nd Star) and Salmon Arm SilverBacks goalie Kurt Williams (two games, two OT wins, 1.92 GAA, .951 sv%, 3rd Star)

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

Lakers' Katapaytuk named Pizza Hut player of the week

Press Release

THUNDER BAY, Ont. – The Superior International Junior Hockey League announced Monday that Byron Katapaytuk of the Fort Frances Lakers has been named Pizza Hut player of the week for the period running Nov. 21-27.

In two games this past week the 20-year-old forward registered eight points by tallying twice and dishing out six assists helping the Lakers secure a pair of home ice victories.

The Moose Factory, Ont., product began his award-winning performance by firing the game-winner and setting up four others in a victory over Iron Range Friday and followed that up with another tally and a couple of helpers in a come from behind triumph over Duluth on Saturday.

Katapaytuk’s efforts have moved him all the way up into a share of second overall in SIJHL scoring with 35 points on 15 goals and 20 assists. His three game-winning tallies is just one off the league lead as well.

The third-year SIJHLer will receive a gift card courtesy of Pizza Hut for his weekly accolades.

Honourable mention for the Pizza Hut player of the week award went to Mike Dietrich, (F) Wisconsin Wilderness; Jesse Linner, (F) Dryden Ice Dogs; Matt Kaarela, (F) Thunder Bay North Stars; Cody Stettin, (F) Duluth Clydesdales; Anthony Wolfe, (F) Sioux Lookout Flyers and Ryan Alves (F) Iron Range Iron Heads.

At the conclusion of the 2011-12 regular season the top performer in the SIJHL will be presented with the Pizza Hut player of the year award.

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

USHL Honors - Week Nine

Press Release

The United States Hockey League today announced the weekly award winners for the ninth week of the 2011-12 USHL regular season.

Award winners include forward Taylor Cammarata of the Waterloo Black Hawks, named CCM Offensive Player of the Week; defensemen Ralfs Freibergs of the Lincoln Stars and Andrew Welinski of the Green Bay Gamblers, selected as co-recipients of CCM Defensive Player of the Week; and Jason Kasdorf of the Des Moines Buccaneers who earned honors as the Reebok USHL Goaltender of the Week.

Cammarata scored six points (3g, 3a) over three games for the Black Hawks. He tallied three points (2g, 1a) and a plus-two rating in the 8-4 win against Team USA on Tuesday. The rookie USHL forward then added two points (1g, 1a) in the 8-4 win over Cedar Rapids on Thanksgiving. Cammarata closed the week by extending his point streak to six games with an assist in Saturday’s 3-2 loss to Cedar Rapids. The 16-year-old from Plymouth, Minnesota is currently third overall in USHL scoring with 22 points (11g, 11a) in 17 games this season.

Freibergs scored three of the eight goals for the Stars over a three-game span and helped the team kill off 13-of-14 power plays by the opposition. He scored both goals in the 3-2 overtime loss to Tri-City on Wednesday and then scored the first goal of the game in the 2-1 victory against Sioux Falls on Friday. He posted a game high plus-two rating in Saturday’s 4-2 win over Tri-City. The 20-year-old from Riga, Latvia is third among USHL defensemen in scoring with 12 points (4g, 8a) in 18 games while also being second on the Stars with a plus-nine rating.

Welinski collected three points (1g, 2a) and posted a plus-six rating to help the Gamblers earn five of a possible six points in the standings during the week. He dished out two assists, including one on the game-winning goal, during Friday’s 6-2 win vs. Muskegon. The 18-year-old then scored his sixth goal of the season in Saturday’s 5-0 shutout of Omaha. Welinski is a native of Duluth, Minnesota and is tied for the scoring lead among USHL defensemen with 13 points (6g, 7a) in 14 games while also leading the entire League with a plus-15 mark.

Kasdorf posted a 1.01 goals-against-average, .973 save percentage, and two shutouts over three games for the Buccaneers. He stopped all 46 shots he faced in the 6-0 win vs. Omaha on Wednesday, which was the most saves made by a goaltender in a USHL game this season. The Winnipeg, Manitoba native stopped 26 shots in the 4-2 loss to Chicago on Friday before earning his second shutout of the week with a 36-save performance in the 4-0 win vs. Dubuque on Saturday. Kasdorf, 19, has posted shutouts in three of his six victories this season and leads USHL goalies in shutouts.

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

Colantone Commits to UMass-Lowell River Hawks

Press Release

PRINCE GEORGE, BC – The Prince George Spruce Kings of the British Columbia Hockey League (BCHL) would like to announce the NCAA Division I scholarship commitment of Michael Colantone with the University of Massachusetts-Lowell beginning with the 2012-13 season. The UMass-Lowell River Hawks mens hockey team plays out of the Hockey East Association.

"We acquired Michael (Colantone) early in the season to come in and complement our scoring," said Spruce Kings General Manager, Mike Hawes. "He has done everything we expected and has impressed enough to receive this great opportunity at a great school in UMass-Lowell. He's a quality person and is very deserving of this. We are extremely excited as an organization that we could help Michael achieve his goal of playing NCAA Division I hockey."

In 22 games with the Prince George Spruce Kings, Colantone has 11 goals including 3 game winners and 22 assists for an average of 1.5 points per game. Colantone was acquired early in the season through a trade with the Victoria Grizzlies where he had a total of 37 points (13 goals 24 assists) in 59 games.

Michael Colantone will become the first Spruce Kings alumni to attend the University of Massachusetts-Lowell joining a few other BCHL alumni. UMass-Lowell alumni include some NHL notables such as Craig MacTavish and Dwayne Roloson.

UMass-Lowell has an enrollment of over 15,000 students offering bachelor's, master's and doctoral degrees in engineering, education, fine arts, health and environment, humanities, liberal arts, management, sciences and social sciences.

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

Kingston, MA- The Bay State Breakers are proud to announce that 6’4”, 215-pound, right-shot defenseman Ori Abramson has committed to play for the Providence College Friars next season.

“Ori has tremendous potential which has placed him on the 2012 NHL Draft ‘players to watch’ list. Ori is a committed player on the ice and in the weight room, as his work ethic is what will make him succesful,” stated Bay State Breakers Head Coach David McCauley.

“I was fortunate enough to have received offers from a few schools but I had been in contact with Coach Leaman for over a year and have been impressed with the success he brought in his previous head coaching job and I know that he will enjoy the same success with Providence and its great hockey history and tradition. I look forward to the opportunity to learn from him and to play in Hockey East,” stated Abramson.

Abramson went on to say, “I have to give a great thank you to Coach David McCauley of Bay State who has been an invaluable source of knowledge and inspiration to me as I try to achieve my hockey goals.”

“We are excited as an organization for Ori to be able to take the next step in his hockey development. A place like Providence College will assist him in making that jump to the professional level,” added McCauley.

Ori is the son of Anita and Lanny Abramson of Toronto, Ont., Canada.

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

MacKinnon, Lacerte and Carrier named TELUS three stars of the week

Press Release

Nathan MacKinnon, François Lacerte and Samuel Carrier were named today the TELUS three stars of the week for the period extending from November 21st to 27th.

Halifax Mooseheads winger Nathan MacKinnon is the first star. He was named the player of the game on Thursday after collecting a goal and an assist in a 4-1 victory over the Screaming Eagles. The following night, he posted his fourth four-point game of the season to help the Mooseheads defeat the Rocket 6-3. Finally, he recorded two assists in a 4-3 shootout loss against the Wildcats on Sunday. MacKinnon finished the week with 2 goals, 6 assists and a +3 rating.

Gatineau Olympiques goaltender François Lacerte is the second star. Thursday, versus the Rimouski Océanic, he was named the second star of the game after blocking 36 shots in a shootout loss. Then, on Saturday, he pushed away an incredible 53 shots to earn the first star in another shootout loss. Finally, on Sunday, he helped the Olympiques secure a 3-2 win over the Titan by stopping 37 shots. In his last 9 starts, he hasn’t lost in regulation time, posting a 5-0-1-3 record.

Baie-Comeau Drakkar defenseman Samuel Carrier is the third star. He collected player of the game honours on Friday, versus the Huskies, after a career game in which he recorded five points (1 goal & 4 assists). It was the second best performance from a Drakkar defenseman in 15 years, the record belonging to Bruno St-Jacques who registered six points on December 28, 1999. The Drakkar won the contest 7-3. On Saturday, Carrier was named the second star of the game after scoring a goal and adding an assist in a 5-4 loss.

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

Bulls’ Gaunce Named OHL Player of the Week

Press Release

Toronto, ON – The Ontario Hockey League today announced that forward Brendan Gaunce of the Belleville Bulls is the OHL Player of the Week for the week ending November 27 after scoring five goals and one assist for six points in three games with a plus-minus rating of plus-5.

Gaunce helped lift the Bulls to three straight wins while recording three straight multi-point games for the first time in his career beginning Thursday night in a 3-1 victory over the Erie Otters where he scored two goals as first star of the contest.  He also scored two goals on Friday night as part of a 6-0 win over the Guelph Storm before finishing the week with another first star performance scoring a goal and an assist in a 4-1 win over the Oshawa Generals on Sunday.

Gaunce, a 17-year-old from Markham, ON, is playing in just his second OHL season with the Bulls where he currently leads the club with 15 goals and 12 assists for 27 points in 25 games.  The former second overall OHL Priority Selection pick is now eligible for the 2012 NHL Entry Draft where he was recently ranked seventh among OHL skaters by NHL Central Scouting.

Also considered for the award this week was fellow 2012 NHL Entry Draft prospect Radek Faksa who scored four goals and two assists for six points in three wins for the Kitchener Rangers.  Vancouver Canucks prospect Alex Friesen also helped the Niagara IceDogs to three straight wins recording six points including three goals and three assists.  In goal, the Bulls’ Malcolm Subban went 3-0-0-0 posting one shutout victory with a goals-against-average of 0.67 with a save percentage of .978.


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

WINTERHAWKS' RATTIE WHL PLAYER OF WEEK

Press Release

CALGARY, AB. - The Western Hockey League announced today that Portland Winterhawks’ forward Ty Rattie is the WHL Player of the Week.

Rattie collected 12 points, scoring seven goals and five assists to go with a +8 rating, in four games over the past week helping the Winterhawks to a 3-1-0-0 record.

On Tuesday, November 22, Rattie scored a goal, added an assist and was named the games 2nd Star to help pace the Winterhawks to a 5-2 win over the visiting Regina Pats. On Wednesday, November 23, the Winterhawks were in Tri-City to face the Americans. Rattie scored two goals, an assist and was named the games 3rd Star in the 7-6 loss to the Americans. On Friday, November 25, the Winterhawks hosted Spokane and Rattie collected a pair of assists in the 5-3 victory over the Chiefs. The Swift Current Broncos were in Portland to face the ‘Hawks in the lone game in the WHL on Sunday, November 27. Rattie scored four goals, an assist and was named the Games 1st Star as the Winterhawks tripled the Broncos 6-2.

Rattie is currently tied for most goals scored in the WHL with 27 and sits 3rd among all scorers with 50 points (27 goals, 23 assists) in 27 games played. The Winterhawks have won eight of their last 10 games and currently sit 2nd in the WHL U.S. Division and Western Conference with a record of 17-9-1-1- for 36 points.

An 18-year-old from Airdrie, AB, Rattie is in his third full season with the Portland Winterhawks. The ‘Hawks made Rattie the 2nd overall selection in the 2008 WHL Draft and the St. Louis Blues recently selected the forward 32nd overall in the 2011 NHL Draft. Rattie has also been invited to attend Canada’s National Junior Team Selection Camp, Dec. 10-14, 2011. This is his first WHL Player of the Week Award.

The WHL has also nominated Eric Comrie of the Tri-City Americans for the CHL Goaltender of the Week Award. Comrie posted a 2-0-0-0 record this past week, stopping 44 of 46 shots faced for a 0.957 save-percentage and 1.00 goals-against average. Comrie, a 16-year-old from Newport Beach, CA, led the Americans to victories over the Swift Current Broncos (5-1) and Regina Pats (6-1).

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

SJHL PLAYERS OF THE WEEK (Nov 27)

Press Release

SJHL PLAYER OF THE WEEK
Zak Majkowski, Yorkton Terriers
1992 F Zak Majkowski (Trail BC) led all point getters over the last seven days with 3-goals and 4-assists in 3-games played. All three games were Yorkton victories. The team's leading scorer now has 7-goals and 19-assists in 27-games.
Honorable Mentions: Louis-Joseph Sawyer, La Ronge; Andrew Johnston, Humboldt; Tayler Thompson, Yorkton; Russell Trudeau, Melville.

SJHL DEFENSEMAN OF THE WEEK
Ryan Whitell, Weyburn Red Wings
1992 D/F Ryan Whitell (Calgary AB) has enjoyed stints this season on the back end and up front for the Red Wings, providing the team with necessary depth scoring when used as a forward and settling the defense with veteran presence and a lethal powerplay weapon when he's employed on the blueline.
Honorable Mentions: Woody Klassen, Battlefords; Austin Yano, Estevan; Keven Cann, Yorkton; Jens Johnson, Weyburn.

SJHL GOALTENDER OF THE WEEK
Warren Shymko, Yorkton
1992 G Warren Shymko (Calder SK) won both of his starts this past week, helping the Terriers sweep their weekend set with their arch rival Melville Millionaires. He posted a 2.00 GAA and a .938-SPCT. He now ranks 5th in the league in GAA this season and is tied for third in SPCT.
Honorable Mentions: Davis Jones, Nipawin; Jesse Wilkins, Melfort; Connor Creech & Graham Hildebrand, Battlefords.

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

Canalta Hotels AJHL Player of the Week

Press Release

The Canalta Hotels AJHL Player of the Week for the week ending November 27th, 2011 is Tanner Labbe of the Grande Prairie Storm. Labbe recorded 3 goals and 5 assists in 4 games for the Storm last week and was named the Pro Hockey Life Player of the Game in both Storm victories.

The 19 year-old forward is enjoying a four game point streak and is second in team scoring with 25 points in 29 games. Labbe, a native of Calgary, Alberta, is in his second AJHL Season.

The Alberta Junior Hockey League is proud to partner with Canalta Hotels to recognize the AJHL Player of the Week for the 2011-2012 AJHL Season.

Canalta Hotels AJHL Player of the Week Recipients:

- September 9th - 18th: Peter Quenneville, Sherwood Park Crusaders

- September 19th - 25th: Mark Reners, Brooks Bandits

- September 26th - October 2nd: Nolan Huysmans, Okotoks Oilers

- October 3rd - October 9th: Tyler Briggs, Lloydminster Bobcats

- October 10th - October 16th: Justin Rose, Fort McMurray Oil Barons

- October 17th - October 23rd: Peter Quenneville, Sherwood Park Crusaders

- October 24th - October 30th: Jay Deo, Calgary Mustangs

- October 31st - November 6th: Mitchell Board, Fort McMurray Oil Barons

- November 7th - November 13th: Josh Atkinson, Lloydminster Bobcats

- November 14th - November 20th: Curtis Martinu, Drayton Valley Thunder

- November 21st - 27th: Tanner Labbe, Grande Prairie Storm

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

Penticton Vees the only BCHL club in weekly national rankings

Press Release

The Canadian Junior Hockey League today announced its Weekly Top 20 rankings. Last week’s rankings and the leagues in which the teams belong to are in parenthesis. The weekly rankings are selected in consultation with NHL Central Scouting and are proudly presented by PlayingUpHockey.com:


Woodstock Slammers(MHL) (1)
Spruce Grove Saints (AJHL) (2)
Fort McMurray Oil Barons(AJHL) (4)
Penticton Vees(BCHL) (3)
Battlefords North Stars (SJHL) (5)
Trenton Golden Hawks(OJHL) (7)
Nepean Raiders (CCHL) (8)
Newmarket Hurricanes(OJHL) (9)
Dauphin Kings(MJHL) (14)
Wisconsin Wilderness(SIJHL) (11)
St. Michael’s Buzzers(OJHL) (6)
Carleton Place Canadians(CCHL) (10)
Soo Thunderbirds(NOJHL) (15)
Brooks Bandits(AJHL) (17)
Wellington Dukes(OJHL) (HM)
Portage Terriers(MJHL) (NR)
Weyburn Red Wings (SJHL) (NR)
Winnipeg Blues(MJHL) (16)
Brockville Braves (CCHL) (18)
Les Cougars du College Champlain - Sherbrooke(LHJAAAQ) (20)


Honourable Mention: Cowichan Valley Capitals (BCHL), Lloydminster Bobcats (AJHL), Humboldt Broncos (SJHL), Cornwall Colts (CCHL), Amherst Ramblers (MHL).

Weekly rankings are based upon a variety of factors, including the league in which the teams play, winning percentage, win-loss record, total points accumulated, goals-for versus goals-against ratio, etc.

The CJHL is comprised of the ten Junior A hockey leagues across Canada. More information on the CJHL can be found by clicking on the league website. www.cjhlhockey.com

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

Nikita Kolesnikovs suspended until further notice

Press Release

The Disciplinary Prefect of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League, Raymond Bolduc, today suspended Blainville-Boisbriand Armada defenseman Nikita Kolesnikovs until further notice following an illegal hit from behind which occurred during Friday’s game versus the Rimouski Océanic.

Kolesnikovs will not be permitted to participate in any of his team’s games until the disciplinary process is completed.

"I will gather the testimonies from the players and organizations involved, read the officials’ report and consult the independent committee in the matter of disciplinary sanctions before announcing my decision in the next couple of days," said the Disciplinary prefect.

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

FORTY-ONE PLAYERS INVITED TO CANADA’S NATIONAL JUNIOR TEAM SPORT CHEK SELECTION CAMP

Press Release


CALGARY, Alta. – Hockey Canada, in partnership with the Canadian Hockey League (CHL), announced Monday that 41 of Canada’s top junior-aged players (born in 1992 or later) have been invited to take part in Canada’s National Junior Team Sport Chek Selection Camp, Dec. 10-14, 2011 at the WinSport Canada Athletic & Ice Complex in Calgary.

Of the 41 players invited, three are returning players – Quinton Howden (Oak Bank, Man./Moose Jaw, WHL), Jaden Schwartz (Wilcox, Sask./Colorado College, CCHA) and Mark Visentin (Waterdown, Ont./Niagara, OHL) helped Canada earn the silver medal at the 2011 IIHF World Junior Championship in Buffalo, N.Y.

In addition, thirty-six of the players named to the selection camp roster were drafted in either the 2010 or 2011 NHL Entry Drafts, including fourteen first-round selections and nine second-round picks.

Hockey Canada can still add additional players prior to the opening of the selection camp on Dec. 10, in the event that NHL teams loan Canada’s National Junior Team junior-aged eligible players currently playing in the NHL.
“On behalf of Hockey Canada, we want to congratulate the players named to the camp roster today, along with their club teams, parents and minor hockey coaches that have helped them reach this level,” said Brad Pascall, Hockey Canada’s vice-president of hockey operations/national teams. “As well, we would like to thank the Canadian Hockey League for its partnership and support of the Program of Excellence.”

“Thanks to Hockey Canada’s Program of Excellence, many of these players have already received the experience necessary to deal with high-paced international competition such as the World Juniors,” said Kevin Prendergast, Hockey Canada’s head scout of the men’s Program of Excellence. “The quality and skill of the 41 players invited to camp next week is a testament to the hard work, commitment and development of all those involved in the Canadian minor hockey and junior hockey systems.”

Prendergast travelled coast to coast during the early months of the 2011-12 season, assessing players in preparation for the selection camp.

“On behalf of the Canadian Hockey League, I would like to congratulate all players who have been named to the selection camp roster,” said David Branch, president of the CHL. “This is a tremendous honour, and all have worked extremely hard to get to where they are today.”


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

LONDON KNIGHTS ANNOUNCE COACHING CHANGE

Press Release

LONDON, ONTARIO: The London Knights Hockey Club today announced that General Manager Mark Hunter has been appointed as Head Coach of the London Knights. Hunter, 49 takes over as Head Coach of the Knights from brother Dale Hunter who today was named Head Coach of the Washington Capitals of the National Hockey League.

The London Knights Hockey Club would also like to congratulate Dale on his appointment as Head Coach of the Capitals. Mark Hunter will take over as Head Coach immediately and will be behind the bench when the London Knights host the Saginaw Spirit on Friday, December 2, 2011 at the John Labatt Centre.

In making the announcement London Knights General Manager/Head Coach Mark Hunter had the following statement. “I would like to congratulate Dale on his appointment and wish him all the best with the Washington Capitals this season. Becoming a Head Coach in the National Hockey League has been a goal of Dale’s during his career. He has a proven track record of developing NHL players and his playing and coaching experience will serve him well in his new challenge. I also look forward to my new opportunity as Head Coach of our Hockey Club. Our team is off to a solid start in the first quarter of the season. We have a core group of young players that are passionate, dedicated and hard working. Additionally, we have a lot of character and leadership in the locker room. Dale and I purchased this team together 11 years ago and we remain committed to helping all of our players develop as hockey players and as young men. We look forward to continuing our winning tradition here in London.”

Mark served as the Head Coach of the Sarnia Sting in the Ontario Hockey League from 1994-1996 before moving on to be the Head Coach of the St. John’s Maple Leafs of the American Hockey League for one season. Mark then served as the General Manager/Head Coach of the Sarnia Sting from 1997-2000.

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

Cavallini Coming to Langley

Press Release

Township of Langley, BC, Wednesday, November 23, 2011: The Langley Rivermen are pleased to add forward Aiden Cavallini to the roster. A 1992 born player, from St. Louis Missouri, Aiden comes to the Rivermen from the Chicago Steel of the USHL where he had 2 goals and 2 assists in 14 games. At 5’10”, 190 pounds, the Rivermen coaching staff feel Aiden will contribute right away,

“Aiden has good speed and skill and will be an impact player for us,” said Assistant Coach Jordan Emmerson who runs the forwards, “he plays well in both ends of the rink and will add an extra dimension to our offense.”

Aiden has great bloodlines as his father Gino played 593 NHL games, mostly with the St. Louis Blues where he spent 6 seasons and had 30 or more points in a season five times. His Uncle Paul also played in the NHL where he played with St. Louis, Washington, and Dallas for a grand total of 564 games.

The Rivermen would like to welcome Aiden to Langley and to the Rivermen hockey club.

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

Rivermen Add Campbell to Line-Up

Press Release

Township of Langley, BC, Thursday, November 24, 2011: The Langley Rivermen are pleased to announce the signing of forward Evan Campbell. Evan is a 1993 born player that played 17 games for the Coquitlam Express this season. He picked up 1 goal and 1 assist in his time with the Express and should fit right in to the Rivermen line up.

“Evan is a power forward with a lot of upside and a good set of hands," said Rivermen Assistant Coach Jordan Emmerson on the teams newest addition, "he has a good first powerful stride for a bigger kid and is still really young."

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

Capitals Name Dale Hunter Head Coach

Press Release

RLINGTON, Va. – The Washington Capitals have named Dale Hunter the team’s head coach, replacing Bruce Boudreau, vice president and general manager George McPhee announced today.

Hunter, 51, becomes the 15th coach in Washington Capitals history and will make his debut behind the bench tomorrow as the Capitals host the St. Louis Blues at Verizon Center.

Hunter helped the London Knights of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) win their first Memorial Cup Championship in 2004-05 and is the fastest head coach in OHL history to record 300 and 400 career wins. The Petrolia, Ont., native owns the highest winning percentage in league history with a record of 451-189-23-24 (.691) in his 11 seasons behind the bench for London and was the 2003-04 winner of the Brian Kilrea Canadian Hockey League (CHL) Coach of the Year.

Hunter played 19 seasons in the NHL from 1980-99, appearing in 1,407 games and collecting 1,020 points (323 goals, 697 assists) along with 3,565 penalty minutes with Quebec, Washington and Colorado.

Hunter is one of just four players to have their numbers retired by the Washington Capitals as his No. 32 was retired by the team on March 11, 2000. Hunter captained the Capitals from the 1994-95 season until the 1998-99 season and was named to the NHL All-Star Team in 1997. He played in 872 games for the Capitals from 1987-99 and compiled 556 points (181 goals, 375 goals) and 2,003 penalty minutes. Hunter ranks first all-time in Capitals’ history in penalty minutes, fourth in games played, tied for ninth in goals and third in assists. His 100 career playoff games with the Capitals rank tied for first in team history while his 72 points and 47 assists both lead the franchise.

Hunter is the only player in NHL history to record more than 1,000 points and 3,000 penalty minutes. He ranks second in NHL history in penalty minutes, 53rd in assists and 73rd all-time in points and his 186 playoff games rank tied for 23rd all-time. He was originally drafted by the Quebec Nordiques in the second round (41st overall) of the 1979 NHL Entry Draft.

This season the Knights lead the OHL with a 20-5-0-1 record and 41 points. Hunter earned his 450th career win on Saturday, Nov. 26 in a 7-2 win over Erie. The Knights are currently the top-ranked team in the CHL and have been ranked No. 1 for seven of the 10 weeks this season and each of the past six weeks (CHL’s Top 10 teams are selected by a panel of National Hockey League scouts). During his time in London, Hunter has coached current Capitals defensemen John Carlson and Dennis Wideman and has worked with numerous other current NHL players such as Rick Nash, Corey Perry, Patrick Kane and John Tavares.

London has won 50 or more games three times and finished first in the OHL four times under Hunter, including a CHL record-setting season in 2004-05 when the Knights finished with a record of 59-7-2-0 and went 20-2-0-0 in the playoffs on the way to the first Memorial Cup championship in London history.

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

2012 SASKENERGY HOCKEY DAY IN SASKATCHEWAN

Press Release

Melville, SK --- Today SaskEnergy announced it will renew its commitment as title sponsor of the annual SaskEnergy Hockey Day in Saskatchewan this coming January.

The official date set for the 5th annual province-wide event is January 21, 2012, where the City of Melville will be the host community.

SaskEnergy Hockey Day in Saskatchewan is dedicated to celebrating and promoting the game of hockey throughout the Province while also serving to strengthen community rink spirit. The Saskatchewan Hockey Association (SHA) and SaskEnergy encourage all minor hockey associations to organize an event in their own community the weekend of January 20th – 22nd, for children and adults of all ages who share a passion for the game.

SaskEnergy Hockey Day in Saskatchewan provides associations a platform to fundraise and keep rinks thriving in Saskatchewan communities by making the local arena the main hub of activity for the weekend and generating local support. In the first four years of the event, host communities have raised a total of $250,000 to direct toward local rink improvement projects.

“The focus of SaskEnergy Hockey Day in Saskatchewan is simple ─ have fun, enjoy a great hockey game, and support your local arena,” said Cindy Fenske, SaskEnergy Business Manager. “Saskatchewan has a history of being ‘hockey crazy’ and at SaskEnergy, we hope to continue that tradition through the annual success of this event. SaskEnergy is proud to continue their partnership with the SHA.”

For more details on how to organize an event in your community, go to: www.hockeydayinsask.ca.

WHL Youth Experience Contest

SaskEnergy also announced the Western Hockey League (WHL) Youth Experience Contest is now open to receive applications. As part of the 2012 Hockey Day celebrations, SaskEnergy will send selected minor hockey teams to a WHL game in each of Saskatchewan’s WHL cities during the weekend activities.

“The WHL Youth Experience Contest has allowed more than 200 minor hockey players and coaches to attend live WHL action. This contest provides a team-building experience and a chance for young teams to realize the positive outcomes hockey can bring through hard work and dedication,” said Kelly McClintock, General Manager of the Saskatchewan Hockey Association.

Minor hockey teams from all over Saskatchewan are encouraged to fill out an application form with a brief description of their team and why they want to catch some WHL action at ww.saskenergy.com. Ten minor hockey teams will be selected and each will receive tickets to a WHL game in the city nearest their community.

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

Sunday, November 27, 2011

BRANDON WHEAT KINGS: Introduce Vintage Jersey

Press Release

Brandon, MB. -- The Western Hockey League's Brandon Wheat kings have unveiled their new Vintage Jerseys.

Two years in the making, this marks the second time in three years that the Wheat Kings have unveiled a special jersey. In addition to their regular home and away sweaters, the WHL club introduced a Third Jersey in 2010.

Designed by Reebok, the jersey's primary color is the team's current recognizable Sunflower Gold, with second colors black and white.

The Wheat Kings will debut the new Vintage Jerseys Friday night at Westman Communications Group Place when they kick off a home and home series with the visiting Moose Jaw Warriors.

The Jersey's Primary front crest is the vintage style logo that features the capital letter "B", a banner containing the text Wheat Kings and a traditional wheat sheaf in the center.

The logo is designed after the one worn by the 1948-49 Wheat Kings, who were the first of five Brandon teams to compete for the Memorial Cup Championship.

The Vintage Jerseys feature a traditional lace-up collar with the BWK shield, that is currently featured as the primary crest on the hockey club's Gold Third Jersey, as the secondary (shoulder patch) logo.

"Vintage Jerseys have proven to be very popular among fans in both the National Hockey League and WHL," says Wheat Kings' general manager Kelly McCrimmon. "We're fortunate in that we have the ability to draw on our storied tradition in recognizing the original '49 Wheat Kings' jersey."

All of the elements going into the creative of the new Vintage jersey provides the perfect mixture of the rich tradition and history of the Wheat Kings, its players, and its legacy blended together resulting in a brand new contemporary jersey.

In addition to Friday night, the club plans to wear the jerseys at all Friday night home games in December including the following:

1. Friday, December 2nd vs. Red Deer Rebels
2. Friday, December 16th vs. Kamloops Blazers
3. Friday, December 30th vs. Edmonton Oil Kings

The '49 Wheat Kings won both the Manitoba Junior Hockey League and Western Canada titles before losing out to the Montreal Royals in the Memorial Cup final. Brandon also competed for the Memorial Cup in 1979, 1995, 1996 and 2010.

Replicas of the club's new Vintage style jerseys will be available to purchase at Friday's game, with two locations inside Westman Place - the souvenir shop outside the east main entrance as well as at the south end of the concourse.

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

KNIGHTS CHANGE GAME TIME OF TEDDY BEAR TOSS

Press Release

LONDON, ONTARIO: Please be advised that the London Knights Hockey Club has changed the game time of the Friday, December 16th game against the Guelph Storm from 7:30pm to 7:00pm to accommodate Sportsnet’s National broadcast of “Friday Night Hockey”.

Friday, December 16th is also the Teddy Bear Toss game presented by Sun Life Financial in which fans are encouraged to bring a new toy to the game and toss it onto the ice after the London Knights first goal. All toys collected are donated to the local Salvation Army. For those unable to attend the game, toys can still be donated to the Sun Life Financial branch located at 1 Commissioners Road East in London, Ontario.

Friday, December 16th vs. Guelph Storm
Doors open at 6:00pm
Puck drops at 7:00pm
*Please bring a stuffed toy*


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

Mustangs Add Two, Subtract One

Press Release

The Mustangs have traded the CJHL playing rights to Brett Charette to the Swan Valley Stampeders for the CJHL playing rights to Clint Pirio (92). Clint is a 6'02" 225lb Right Winger from Radville, SK. The Mustang Organization would like to thank Brett for everything he has done while part of our team.

In a separate move the Mustangs have added 18 year old left wing Jared Kambeitz. Jared spent time in Battleford earlier in the year.

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

Saturday, November 26, 2011

Banner Banner Banner Natives' name new head coach

Press Release

The Neepawa Natives Junior "A" Hockey Club wish to announce that interim coaches Ken Brooks and Jim Platt have been handed the coaching reins for the remainder of the 2011-2012 season.

Ken Brooks will serve as Head Coach and General Manager and Jim Platt will serve as Co-Coach.

The Neepawa Natives organization wish to thank these two gentlemen for filling in on an interim basis and we welcome their enthusiasm as they take on full time responsibilities with the hockey club.

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

OPENING THE “FLOOD” GATES

Press Release

Kalamazoo, MI- The Kalamazoo Jr. K-Wings, proud members for the North American Hockey League’s North Division announce the trade of forward Matt Cessna to the Chicago Hitmen in exchange for forward Brandon Flood.

Flood comes to Kalamazoo after 23 games with Chicago on the season. The NAHL rookie from Mason, Michigan, was second on the Hitmen in scoring with 17 points (8 goals, 9 assists). Flood also lead the Hitmen in penalty minutes with 57.

The Jr. K-Wings gave up the eighteen year old Cessna in the two-team deal. In nineteen games on the campaign, Cessna tallied two goals and two assists.

Head Coach, Marc Fakler, is excited with their new addition to the roster, as he is anticipating even more production from his offense: “Brandon is a talented offensive player that has a track record for scoring goals.”

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

2013 MASTERCARD MEMORIAL CUP TICKET PACKAGES

Press Release

SASKATOON, SK – The ticket package pricing and on-sale dates for the 2013 MasterCard Memorial Cup have been released.

The package prices are broken down into six different categories ranging from $95 to $595, plus GST and applicable service fees. Those packages include the entire tournament, which will cover a minimum of eight games.

“We feel that these prices will give everyone an opportunity to come out and attend this world class event”, said 2013 MasterCard Memorial Cup Host Committee Co-Chair Jack Brodksy.

“That spread in prices from $95 to $595 will allow anybody in the city and the surrounding area to come out to these games.”

Saskatoon Blades season ticket holders who purchase 2012-2013 season seats before August 31, 2012 will have the first chance to reserve their same seats for the 2013 MasterCard Memorial Cup.

Those same season ticket holders will also be offered a chance to buy additional MasterCard Memorial Cup ticket packages (up to the number of season seats they hold) once all Blades season seats and Blades sponsor seats have been spoken for (so long as 2,000 packages remain for public sale).

“The 2013 MasterCard Memorial Cup is a Canadian Hockey League event. It’s truly the tournament of champions for junior hockey and because of that, we just felt that junior hockey fans deserved the first chance at ticket packages”, added Brodsky.

Given that season seats for the 2012-2013 year are not on sale to the general public until the spring of 2012, the best way to get the seats you want is to buy those seats for the remainder of this season.

Despite the fact that Saskatoon Blades season ticket holders will get the first chance at tickets and reserving their same seat, every single level of hockey fan has been thought of in this ticket plan.

A pricing breakdown and ticket release dates can be found on the next page or online at www.saskatoonblades.com.

Important Ticket Dates And Information

- Pro-rated Saskatoon Blades season seats for 2011-2012 are still available. The easiest way to reserve your same seat to the 2013 MasterCard Memorial Cup is to be a Saskatoon Blades season ticket holder this season.

- Saskatoon Blades season ticket holders on record by August 31st, 2012, have reserved their seat for the 2013 MasterCard Memorial Cup. At a later date, these same people will have a chance to purchase an equal amount of packages, based on best available.

- Saskatoon Blades season tickets purchased between September 1st and October 12th, 2012 will reserve their seats, but will not have the opportunity to double up on packages before they go on sale to the general public.

- Saskatoon Blades season ticket holders can confirm their seat for the 2013 MasterCard Memorial cup when they purchase their 2012-2013 season seats. Package payments will be processed between October 15th and October 19th, 2012.

- Between November 5th and November 9th, 2012 Saskatoon Blades partial plan holders, suite renters and group clients will have a chance to purchase 2013 MasterCard Memorial Cup ticket packages.

- 2013 MasterCard Memorial Cup ticket packages will go on sale to the general public on Saturday, November 17th, 2012.

Package Pricing

The pricing for 2013 MasterCard Memorial Cup packages has been broken down into 6 different categories. All the prices listed below are for the entire tournament, which will feature a minimum of 8 games.

- Price 1 (Clubseat) - $595.00

- Price 2 - $495.00

- Price 3 - $395.00

- Price 4 - $295.00

- Price 5 - $195.00

- Price 6 - $95.00

*Prices do not include GST and applicable service fees.

For more information on ticket package pricing or release dates, contact the Saskatoon Blades office at 975-8844 or visit us online at www.saskatoonblades.com.

Saskatoon Blades Hockey, It Starts Here!

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

Top 50 players named after thousands of fan votes cast

Press Release

Thousands of votes were submitted and the results are now in from fan voting for the BCHL's top-50 players.

The results are listed alphabetically. Without further ado:

1960s
Player                  Position           Team(s)                 Years played
Harvey Budarick   Goaltender      Kamloops Rockets  1963-67
Wayne Dye          Forward            Vernon Essos          1967-68
Ron Grahame      Goaltender       Victoria Cougars     1967-69
Glen Madsen        Forward           Kamloops Rockets   1961-63
Bob Nystrom         Forward            Kamloops Rockets   1969-70
Dwayne Pentland  Defence           Penticton Broncos   1969-70
Dale Sandyke        Forward           Kamloops Rockets    1962-1966
Tom Serviss          Defence            Vernon Essos           1967-68
Eric Shishido        Forward             Kamloops Rockets   1962-66
Barry Wilcox          Forward             Victoria Cougars     1967-68

1970s
Greg C. Adams      Forward            Nanaimo Clippers     1977-78
Bruce Affleck         Defence            Penticton Broncos     1970-72
Glenn Anderson    Forward             Bellingham Blazers   1977-78
Mel Bridgman       Forward             Nanaimo Clippers      1972-73
Chad Campbell     Forward             Penticton Broncos      1970-73
Ernie Gare             Forward             Penticton/Vernon       1969-72
Doug Lidster           Defence            Kamloops Rockets      1977-79
Andy Moog             Goaltender       Kamloops/Penticton   1976-78
Bob Nicholson        Forward             Penticton Broncos       1970-73
Ryan Walter           Forward              Langley Lords             1973-75

1980s
Greg Adams           Forward               Kelowna Buckaroos       1980-82
Geoff Courtnall      Forward               C’chan Valley Capitals   1980-81
Byron Dafoe          Goaltender          Juan De Fuca Whalers    1986-87
Dallas Drake          Forward                Vernon Lakers                 1987-88
Ray Ferraro            Forward               Penticton Knights            1981-82
Brett Hull               Forward               Penticton Knights             1982-84
Olaf Kolzig            Goaltender          Abbotsford Falcons           1987-88
Joe Murphy            Forward               Penticton Knights             1984-85
Mark Recchi           Forward               Langley Eagles                1984-85
Cliff Ronning          Forward              New West Royals              1982-83

1990s
Scott Gomez           Forward              South Surrey Eagles             1996-97
Robb Gordon          Forward              Pwl.  River Paper Kings       1992-94
Shawn Horcoff        Forward              Chilliwack Chiefs                  1995-96
Paul Kariya            Forward              Penticton Panthers              1990-92
Dave Keough         Defence             P.G. Spruce Kings                1998-00
Chuck Kobasew      Forward              Penticton Panthers              1999-00
Shane Kuss            Forward              South Surrey Eagles             1993-97
Willie Mitchell        Defence             Kelowna Spartans                1994-95
Brendan Morrison   Forward              Penticton Panthers              1992-93
Bill Muckalt            Forward              Merritt Centennials             1992-94


2000s
Jamie Benn           Forward                 Victoria Salsa/Grizzlies        2005-07
Tyler Bozak            Forward                 Victoria Salsa/Grizzlies        2005-07
Connor Jones         Forward                 Vernon Vipers                      2008-10
Kellen Jones          Forward                 Vernon Vipers                      2008-10
Duncan Keith         Defence                 Penticton Panthers              1999-01
Andrew Ladd          Forward                 Coquitlam Express               2002-03
Jeff Tambellini       Forward                 Chilliwack Chiefs                  2000-02
Brad Thiessen        Goaltender            Penticton/P.G./Merritt          2003-06
Kyle Turris               Forward                 Burnaby Express                  2005-07
Travis Zajac            Forward                 Salmon Arm SilverBacks     2002-04

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

OMHA Showcase Event Profiles Top OHL Draft Eligible Players

Press Release

The Ontario Minor Hockey Association [OMHA] is pleased to announce the OMHA AAA Showcase event featuring all thirteen Minor Midget AAA teams from the Eastern AAA League competing during regular season play. This event will showcase the highest level of OMHA Minor Midget hockey players in a safe and fair event that will feature educational information for players and parents. Partners include Ontario University Athletics [OUA], Ontario Hockey League [OHL], Brock University, Under Armour, City of Barrie, Pro Hockey Life and Rogers TV.

Dates and Venue:
Eastern AAA League: December 3-4 / Holly Community Centre, Barrie

Admission is free. Selected games will be available on Rogers TV Cable 10 following the event.

Recent OMHA AAA Graduates include Corey Perry [Anaheim Ducks], Steven Stamkos [2008 1st Pick NHL Draft], Matt Duchene [2009 3rd Overall Pick NHL Draft], Josh Bailey [2008 9th Overall NHL Draft Pick], Cody Hodgson [10th Overall NHL Draft Pick], Michael Del Zotto [2008 20th Overall Pick NHL Draft, and Cameron Gaunce [2008 50th Overall Draft Pick].

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

Friday, November 25, 2011

PG COUGARS: Martin Marincin To Play in WJC

Press Release

The Prince George Cougars are pleased to announce that 19-year-old defenceman Martin Marincin will play for Slovakia at the 2012 World junior Hockey Championships in Alberta from December 26, 2011 to January 5, 2012. This will be Marincin’s third time playing for Slovakia in this tournament as he represented his country last season in Buffalo, New York and in 2010 in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan.

Marincin was drafted in the second-round, 46th overall by the Edmonton Oilers in 2010 and is enjoying a fine sophomore season with the Prince George Cougars. In 19 games, Marincin has totaled two goals and 10 points. Marincin scored 14 goals and finished with 56 points in his rookie season with the Cougars in 2010-2011. The Cougars selected Marincin first overall in the 2010 CHL Import Draft.

The Prince George Cougars would like to wish Martin Marincin all the best as he prepares to represent his country at the World Junior Hockey Championships.

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