Monday, January 31, 2011

Dame-Malka and Finn suspended three games

Press Release

BOUCHERVILLE, Monday, January 31, 2011 - The Quebec Major Junior Hockey League Disciplinary Prefect, Raymond Bolduc, today suspended two Lewiston MAINEiacs defensemen.

Olivier Dame-Malka is suspended for three games for kneeing while his teammate, Samuel Finn, inherits a three-game suspension for an aggressor penalty which he was assessed at the end of an altercation. Both incidents occurred during last Friday’s game versus the Rimouski Océanic.

The decisions were rendered after reviewing the videotapes of the incidents, gathering the testimonies from the players and the organizations involved, reading the officials’ reports and consulting the independent committee in the matter of disciplinary sanctions.

The Disciplinary Prefect will not be available for further comment.

(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 Jan. 30.

SBK HOCKEY/NORTH PLAYER OF THE WEEK
Ross Mauermann - Janesville Jets

Janesville forward Ross Mauermann connected for three goals and two assists as the Jets skated to a two-game sweep over Chicago. On Friday, the Janesville native put home two goals, including the game-winner, in a 4-0 triumph. The next night, the 20-year-old tallied another goal and a pair of assists, including one on Pijus Rulevicius’ game-winning marker, as the Jets blanked the Hitmen, 6-0. He was also a plus-7 on the weekend.

“Ross had another great weekend for us,” said Jets head coach Dane Litke. “He’s elevated his play and has had a good start to the second half of his season thanks to his continued hard work, on and off the ice.”

HONORABLE MENTION: Motor City forward Cody Wydo; Port Huron forward Rudi Pino

SBK HOCKEY/SOUTH PLAYER OF THE WEEK
Derek Hills - Amarillo Bulls

Amarillo defenseman Derek Hills picked up a goal and three assists for the Bulls as they fashioned a 1-2 record. On Thursday, the Campbell River, British Columbia, native tallied two assists in a 4-3 loss to the New Mexico Mustangs. The next night, the 20-year-old recorded another assist as the Bulls fell to Corpus Christi, 3-2. Hills then connected for the game-winning goal in a 4-1 triumph over the IceRays on Saturday.

“Derek is our captain and an extremely mature young man,” said Bulls head coach Dennis Williams. “He makes an impact in all three zones and will be a tremendous asset to a Division I program next season.”

HONORABLE MENTION: Amarillo forward Joe Kozlak; Texas forward Nate Sliwinski; Topeka forward Brian Christie

SBK HOCKEY/CENTRAL PLAYER OF THE WEEK
Charlie Adams - Austin Bruins

Austin forward Charlie Adams struck for a goal and five assists as the Bruins skated to a two-game sweep over Owatonna. On Friday, the White Bear Lake, Minn., native recorded a pair of assists, including one on Cory Ellis’ game-winning goal, in a 2-0 victory. The next night, the 18-year-old picked up a goal and three more assists as the Bruins downed the Express, 6-1. He was also a plus-2 on the weekend.

“Charlie was a huge offensive catalyst for us last weekend,” said Bruins head coach Chris Tok. “That was an important series for us and he stepped up big. We’re hoping to see more performances like that from him down the stretch.”

HONORABLE MENTION: Alexandria forward Jordan Nelson

SBK HOCKEY/WEST PLAYER OF THE WEEK
Dakota Mason - Dawson Creek Rage

Dawson Creek forward Dakota Mason rang up three goals and three assists as the Rage celebrated a three-game sweep over Alaska. After being held scoreless on Thursday - a 3-2 victory - the Edmonton native came through with a one-goal, one-assist effort the next night in a 6-3 triumph. On Sunday, the 18-year-old tallied two more goals and a pair of assists as the Rage bested the Avalanche, 5-4. He was also a plus-3 on the weekend.

"Dakota has been one of our top offensive performers all season long and he proved that again last weekend," said Rage head coach Scott Robinson. "He's creative, dangerous, and he only continues to get better, which speaks well for his future."

HONORABLE MENTION: Wenatchee forward Tyler Hope

SBK HOCKEY/GOALTENDER OF THE WEEK
A.J. Underwood - Austin Bruins

Goaltender A.J. Underwood backstopped the Bruins to a two-game sweep over Owatonna, turning aside 58 or 59 shots. On Friday, the Grand Rapids, Minn., native made all 21 saves in a 2-0 victory. The next night, the 19-year-old stopped 37 shots as the Bruins downed the Express, 6-1.

“The entire season A.J. has been working hard and patiently waiting for his opportunity, and last weekend he definitely rose to the challenge,” said Bruins head coach Chris Tok. “It’s great to see a player of such high character have success.”

HONORABLE MENTION: Alexandria’s Jacob Meyers; Janesville’s Tony Kujava; Michigan’s Robert Tadazak; Port Huron’s Peter Megariotis; Texas’ Jimmy Kruger; Topeka’s Rasmus Tirronen; Wenatchee’s Brandon Jaeger; Wichita Falls’ Tyler Green

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

USHL Honors - Week 18

Press Release

The United States Hockey League today announced the weekly award winners for the 18th week of the 2010-11 USHL regular season.

Congratulations to forward Michael Parks of the Cedar Rapids RoughRiders, named CCM Offensive Player of the Week; defenseman Jordan Schmaltz of the Sioux City Musketeers, selected as CCM Defensive Player of the Week; and Tyler Bruggeman of the Des Moines Buccaneers who earned honors as the Reebok USHL Goaltender of the Week.

Parks scored four points (3g, 1a) over three games during the week. After dishing out an assist in Tuesday's loss to Des Moines, he scored two goals in Friday's 5-4 overtime loss to Team USA. It was the third multi-goal game of the season for the 18-year-old. Parks added his third goal of the weekend in Saturday's 5-4 shootout win over Dubuque. It was his sixth goal over his last eight games and he is tied for second on the team with 14 goals during his second year in the League. The native of O'Fallon, Missouri was selected by the Philadelphia Flyers in the fifth round of the 2010 NHL Entry Draft following his rookie USHL season.

Schmaltz had a USHL career best three points (2g, 1a) in Friday's 4-1 win over Chicago and finished the weekend with an even rating. The defenseman opened a three-goal first period for the Musketeers with a power play tally just under seven minutes into the game. He assisted on the eventual game-winner and added another power play tally in the third period. Schmaltz, 17, is tied for seventh in scoring among USHL defensemen with 19 points (7g, 12a) in 29 games this season. It is the second time this season that the native of Verona, Wisconsin has earned the weekly League honor.

Bruggeman picked up a pair of victories for the Buccaneers, posting a 1.50 goals-against-average and a .950 save percentage. The 19-year-old made 25 saves in the 6-2 win vs. Cedar Rapids on Tuesday. Bruggeman then stopped 32 shots in Saturday's 4-1 victory, putting a halt to Indiana's nine-game road winning streak which was a League season high. It is the first USHL season for the native of North Mankato, Minnesota. He has earned all five of his victories this season during the month of January, winning five of his last six starts.

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

Kings rise, Vees slip and Vipers hold steady in weekly rankings

Press Release

The Canadian Junior Hockey League (CJHL) announced today its 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 Weekly Top 20 as of Monday, January 31, 2011

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

Honorable mention goes to the Brooks Bandits (AJHL), Camrose Kodiaks (AJHL), Melfort Mustangs (SJHL), OCN Blizzard (MJHL), and the Stouffville Spirit (OJHL).

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

SJHL RBC JANUARY PLAYERS OF THE MONTH

Press Release

LAYER OF THE MONTH – Braeden Adamyk (Kindersley)

The Klippers have made a race of it in the Sherwood Conference thanks to great play from several players including Adamyk. The 20 year old from Neepawa, Manitoba had 13 goals and 12 assists in 14 games this month as Kindersley made a statement as to where they want to be at the end of the season.

HONORABLE MENTION: Johnny Calkins (Kindersley), Travis Eggum (La Ronge), Jesse Mireau (Melfort)

DEFENCEMAN OF THE MONTH – Josh Roach (Humboldt)

The 1992 born defenceman from Saskatoon saw a lot of former teammates go this year as the Broncos start building a team for the 2012 RBC. One player that didn’t have to worry about going anywhere because he is a keystone to the Humboldt future is Roach. His play has drawn the attention of many scouts and he didn’t disappoint those scouts during January by showcasing his complete skills.

HONORABLE MENTION: Kurt Leedahl (Kindersley), Cody Folstad (Battlefords), James Howden ( Notre Dame)

GOALTENDER OF THE MONTH – Russell Abbott (Notre Dame)

The 1991 born goaltender from Mill Bay, B-C is keeping the Hounds in the playoff chase. Abbott had a spectacular month of January in which he went 6-3-1 while posting a goals against average of 2.14 and a save percentage of .933 with a shutout. His play is one reason why Notre Dame is chasing Melville right to the end for the last playoff spot in the Sherwood Conference.

HONORABLE MENTION: Charles Corsi (Melfort), Sean Cahill (Kindersley)



ROOKIE OF THE MONTH – Eli Lichtenwald (Nipawin)

It hasn’t been a great year for the Hawks, but head coach Doug Johnson has a talented group of rookies including the 1992 born forward from Saskatoon. Lichtenwald has seen increased ice time in January with the trades of players like Matthew Spafford and Jonathan Ceci. He answered the bell by providing quality minutes and registering nine points in 11 games.

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

Source for Sports AJHL Player of the Week: Jan 24th -30th, 2011

Press Release

Goaltender Julien Laplante of the Bonnyville Pontiacs is the Source for Sports AJHL Player of the Week for the final week of January 2011. Laplante was 2-0 over the week and allowed only one goal on 59 shots faced. He leads all goaltenders in minutes played with 2,569. Laplante is 3rd overall with a 2.10 GAA and is tied for second amongst AJHL goaltenders with 6 shutouts.

The 20 year-old goaltender from Sherwood Park, Alberta is in his third season for the Pontiacs.

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

CODY CHIKIE WHL PLAYER OF THE WEEK

Press Release

CALGARY, AB. – The WHL Player of the Week is forward Cody Chikie of the Kelowna Rockets.

Chikie picked up seven points, scoring one goal and six assists to go with a +4 rating, in two games over the past week, helping the Rockets to 2-0-0-0 record.

On Friday, January 28th, the Rockets welcome the Prince George Cougars to Prospera Place in Kelowna. Chikie scored one goal, added three assists and was named the games 1st Star as the Rockets downed the Cougars 7-3. The next night, Saturday, January 29th, the Vancouver Giants were in Kelowna to face the Rockets. Chikie picked up three assists in the Rockets 7-3 victory over the Giants.

With Chikie’s seven points in 10 games he now has 24 points on the season (10 goals, 14 assists) in 45 games played. The Rockets have won six straight, and eight of their past 10 contests, to sit first place in the WHL BC Division and second spot in the Western Conference with a 29-20-0-0 record for 58 points.

Chikie, a 19 year-old from St. Albert, AB, is playing his second full season with the Rockets who acquired the forward from the Saskatoon Blades prior to the 2009-10 season. He has appeared in 118 WHL games gathering 28 goals, 30 assists for 58 career points, along with 95 PIM.

The WHL has also nominated Kent Simpson of the Everett Silvertips for the CHL Goaltender of the Week Award. Simpson posted a 3-1-0-0 record this past week with one shut-out, stopping 139 of 144 shots faced for a 1.25 goals-against average and a 0.965 save percentage. Simpson, a native of Edmonton, AB, helped the Silvertips to a pair of wins over the Seattle Thunderbirds and a victory over the Prince George Cougars.

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

Dave Labrecque, Samuel Carrier and Andrew Hayes are the TELUS three stars of the week

Press Release

BOUCHERVILLE, Monday, January 31, 2011 – Forward Dave Labrecque, defenseman Samuel Carrier as well as goaltender Andrew Hayes were named today the TELUS three stars of the week from January 24 to January 30, 2011.

Shawinigan Cataractes center Dave Labrecque is the first star of the week. The forward registered two goals and six helpers for a total of eight points while posting a +5 rating in three games, resulting in three wins against the Rouyn-Noranda Huskies, the Val-d’Or Foreurs and the Drummondville Voltigeurs. He was named the first star of the game last Wednesday against the Huskies, registering one goal and four helpers while maintaining a +4 rating. He was also named the second star of the game against the Foreurs after scoring one goal and adding one assist.

Lewiston MAINEiacs defenseman Samuel Carrier is the second star of the week after he collected six assists in two games. Carrier also managed to post a +5 rating. He was named the first star of the game last week against Rimouski after registering three helpers. The MAINEiacs orchestrated a magnificent comeback, winning the game 5-4 after initially falling behind 4-1.

Finally, Andrew Hayes is the TELUS third star of the week. The Cape Breton Screaming Eagles backstop collected two wins in two games with stellar performances against both Baie-Comeau and Montreal. He finished the week with a 0.50 goals-against-average and a .982 save percentage by stopping 54 of the 55 shots he faced. Hayes also registered a shutout against the Montreal Juniors last Saturday.

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

IN MEMORIAM: PHIL COLEMAN

Press Release

The Eastern Junior Hockey League is saddened by the passing of former Boston Harbor Wolves owner Phil Coleman.

Coleman, a native of Charlestown, MA, entered the Matt O’Neill Hockey Club into the Eastern Junior Hockey League in 1993 as a charter member. He owned and operated the team until the end of the 1996-97 season.

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

Jonathan Diaby suspended two games

Press Release

BOUCHERVILLE, Sunday, January 31, 2011 - The Quebec Major Junior Hockey League Disciplinary Prefect, Raymond Bolduc, today suspended Victoriaville Tigres defenseman Jonathan Diaby for two games for an illegal hit which occurred during last Friday’s game versus the Chicoutimi Saguenéens.

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.

The Disciplinary Prefect will not be available for further comment.

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

Sunday, January 30, 2011

RED WINGS TO PLAY AT COPPS COLISEUM

Press Release

The Hamilton Red Wings have announced that OJHL game #730, originally slated to be played at their home Mountain Arena on Saturday, February 5 at 7:30 pm versus the Oakville Blades, has been moved to Copps Coliseum, home of the Montreal Canadiens AHL affiliate, the Hamilton Bulldogs.

The game will be played as part of a special "double-header" immediately following the Bulldogs home game at 5:00 pm versus the Adirondack Phantoms (AHL affiliate of the Philadelphia Flyers). The Red Wings-Blades game is now scheduled to begin at 8:30 pm, immediately following the AHL game.

When informed of the opportunity to play in a professional building with a much larger crowd, Red Wings alternate captain Christian Powers stated, "I think this will be a great opportunity and experience for the Red Wings. It will give Hamilton hockey fans a chance to see our team and see how exciting Junior hockey can be. Copps Coliseum is a legendary building and hopefully both teams can put on a good show."

Wings captain and star Zach Hyman echoed his teammates statements, "It's a tremendous honour to play at Copps Coliseum after the Hamilton Bulldogs. We appreciate the support given to us by the Bulldogs and the great fans of Hamilton. Hopefully both Hamilton teams will win. We will give our best effort and we'll be rooting for the Bulldogs too!" Wings

This is sure to be a critical divisional match-up that you won't want to miss, as the Red Wings continue their fight for the all-important first round bye in the playoffs. They currently sit six points out of 3rd place behind Georgetown with one game in hand.

The double-header also affords fans the opportunity to see Adirondack Phantoms stars and former OJHL grads Stefan Legein (Milton Icehawks, 2004/05) and Luke Pither (Bowmanville Eagles, 2004/05), as well as former Hamilton Red Wings tough guy Zac Rinaldo (2006/07).

Don't miss this unique opportunity to view hockey's future stars!

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

Supplementary discipline announced

Press Release

THUNDER BAY, Ont. -- The SIJHL announced Saturday the suspensions of the following players and coaches for an incident at the 19:24 mark of the second period in league game No. 133 Duluth @ Thunder Bay. (Jan. 28/11)

Duluth Clydesdales
# 4 – Mark Williams- 1- Game Suspension Second Fight Same Stoppage of Play
# 10- Casey Eckman - 1- Game Suspension Third Fight Same Stoppage of Play
# 12 – Jacob Ransom - 1- Game Suspension Fourth Fight Same Stoppage of Play
Coach – Sean Storie – 1 Game Suspension Three fights or more – Same Stoppage

Thunder Bay North Stars
# 26 – Paul Zysko - 1- Game Suspension Second Fight Same Stoppage of Play
# 15 – Matt Valley – 2 Game Suspension 1- Game Suspension Third Fight Same Stoppage of Play Plus –1- Game for his Third Major Penalty.
# 16 – Isaac Howarth - 2 Game Suspension 1- Game Suspension Fourth Fight Same Stoppage of Play Plus- 1- Game for his Third Major Penalty.
Coach Todd Howarth- 1 Game Suspension Three fights or more – Same stoppage

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

HOUNDS NAME SJHL AWARD NOMINEES

Press Release

The Notre Dame Hounds Junior A hockey club and the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League have announced the three players that will represent the Hounds in year-end awards at the end of the season. The announcement of what players have been nominated by the team was made this morning as the SJHL’s President Tour presented by Source Embroidery-Yorkton made a stop in Wilcox. The President’s Tour is a chance to promote the upcoming SJHL playoffs and to show off the Credit Union Cup and the SJHL Sask-Tel Showcase of Awards.

NOTRE DAME HOUNDS YEAR END AWARD NOMINEES

Most Outstanding Player – Russell Abbott

If the 1991 born goalie from Mill Bay, BC could put pucks in the net the way he keeps them out, the Hounds might be one of the top teams in Canada this year. Abbott has been outstanding right from day one of the season. He is one of the top goalies in the SJHL in many categories and will be seen as a huge plus for the team next year when he returns as a 20 year old.

Most Outstanding Defenceman – James Howden

The SJHL has many good 1991 born defencemen in the league, but there may be none better than the product of Edgeley. Saskatchewan. Howden has helped shut down the top forwards in the SJHL on many a night and he has chipped in offensively as well contributing 32 points in 45 games. The fact he can come back as a 20 year old next season means nothing but good things for the program.



Top Rookie – Kale Derkson



The 1993 born forward from Regina may not be the biggest hockey player on the ice, but he certainly knows how to play with the big boys. His tenacious style has caught the eyes of scouts who feel he is one of those grit guys that teams need to have in order to be successful. He has made life miserable for many an opponent this year while doing his thing.

These three players will join the nominees from the 11 other SJHL teams for year-end awards. Those awards will be announced shortly after the end of the regular-season.



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

Saturday, January 29, 2011

Saints Goaltender Commits to University of Maine

Press Release

Dubuque Fighting Saints goaltender Matt Morris has committed to play collegiate hockey at the University of Maine following his USHL career.

"I knew right away when I visited that Maine was the place I wanted to go," Morris told the Dubuque Telegraph Herald. "The campus is beautiful, I really liked the coaching staff, and they have a great track record of producing goalies at the NHL level."

The 17-year-old has been one of the League's top goaltenders during his first USHL season. Morris leads the League with a 1.87 goals-against-average and is also currently on top with a .931 save percentage. He won his debut in the USHL, making 27 saves in a 4-1 victory over Team USA on October 9th. At one stretch in November, Morris won six straight starts and posted a 0.50 GAA during that span which included three shutouts. The native of Ridgewood, New Jersey was selected by the Saints 82nd overall in the 2010 USHL Entry Draft.

Morris's coach in Dubuque, Jim Montgomery, is the all-time leading scorer at the University of Maine and helped the school capture their first-ever NCAA Championship during the 1992-93 season.

"It's pretty neat that Matt wants to be a Black Bear and carry on the great tradition there," said Montgomery to the Telegraph Herald. "The bottom line is each player has to make a college choice based on how he's going to fit in academically, socially, and athletically at that school."

Youngstown Phantoms forward Stu Higgins is another current USHL player committed to attend the University of Maine.

The Black Bears are a member of Hockey East and currently ranked #12 nationally. Seven USHL alumni are on the roster for Maine this season; Mark Anthoine (Sioux Falls Stampede/Chicago Steel), Robby Dee (Omaha Lancers), Joe Diamond (Omaha Lancers), Will O'Neill (Omaha Lancers), Nick Pryor (Waterloo Black Hawks/Des Moines Buccaneers), Dan Sullivan (Omaha Lancers), and Jon Swavely (Sioux City Musketeers).

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

Sam Guimond Heads To AJHL All-Star Game

Press Release

Walpole, MA- 21 goals and 10 assists have earned Sam Guimond a spot in this years AJHL All-Star Game which is to be played this weekend. Sam has played a major role in the Junior A team’s offense with his team leading 21 goals.

Head Coach Brad Church said about Guimond’s selection, “We are very excited to see Sam represent our team in the All-Star Game. Sam has played a major role in our offense and power-play.”

Sam has drawn the attention of college coaches looking to add some offensive power for next season and he will certainly make an impact at the next level. We wish Sam the best of luck in the game and the rest of his final year of junior eligibility.

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

Stars’ Dienes commits to Western Michigan

Press Release

TRAVERSE CITY – To call Chris Dienes’ season a whirlwind affair is putting it mildly. He started the year with his Traverse City West High School team, preparing to help the Titans defend their Big North Conference crown. Four months later, he has committed to play Div. I college hockey at Western Michigan University. In between, a call-up to the Traverse City North Stars cemented Dines’ station as an up-and-coming defenseman earmarked for duty in the elite CCHA conference.

“It’s been a little overwhelming at times, to be honest,” said Dienes, a 6-2, 180-pounder with just 16 games of junior experience under his belt. “Obviously, it’s a dream come true to get the opportunity to play college hockey.”

Western’s staff began to take notice of Dienes during the Michigan Developmental Hockey League season in September – a league that showcases the top high school talent in the state. When the North Stars called on Dienes to join the NAHL ranks in early November, WMU staffers again got the chance to see him play his first junior series in Springfield and Dienes agreed to take a visit.

“I don’t know if I was ready for it, but it was great,” he explained. “They played Ohio State in front of a sellout crowd, which was awesome, and the campus was great too. I got a chance to talk to (former North Stars) Patrick Nagorsen and Travis Paeth and they told me all about the school and the program and how much they loved it, and that was good to hear.”

Dienes, who plans to study computer engineering at WMU, didn’t get a chance to help West seek another title, as Traverse City head coach/GM Anthony Palumbo didn’t hesitate to bring him aboard when veteran blue-liner Trevor Campbell was dealt to Topeka. Dienes has seen action in 16 games for the Stars, and scored his first junior goal on Dec. 4 at Motor City. He also assisted on a key score in a 5-4 win against Michigan on Nov. 27.

“Chris has tremendous upside,” said Palumbo. “He’s already very good – he’s a big kid with that long reach, he skates well, and plays his position. Those are attractive qualities for colleges when they’re looking for kids who can play at that level. We’ve seen Chris play all the way through from his Grand Traverse Hockey Association days, and seen him develop into a high-end hockey player with a great work ethic.”

Dienes, who began playing hockey at the age of four, followed in his brother P.J.’s footsteps as a Titan, and cites his family’s heavy involvement in their sport of choice as one of the reasons for his successes.

“My mom and dad were always driving us to practices and games and tournaments, and they deserve many thanks,” he added. “And my brother really helped guide me through, along with support from family and friends. I’ve also had some great coaches along the way, like coach (Bob) Spence and coach (Jeremy) Rintala at West, and Chad, coach Mattuecci and coach Palumbo here. They’ve had a real impact on my later development.”

As Dienes’ stint at Western isn’t slated to begin until the 2012-1 season3, he isn’t sure where he’ll ply his trade for the next two seasons.

“I wouldn’t mind going somewhere to play in the USHL, but right here is a pretty great place to play, too,” he said. “I don’t think there’s a downside to any of the options, we’ll just have to see how it plays out.”

Dienes and the North Stars will welcome in Port Huron this weekend for a Friday-Saturday series at Centre ICE. Friday is MSU Night at Centre ICE, as fans who wear green and white to the game get $1 off admission, with the team donating an additional $1 each to the Grand Traverse Area MSU Alumni Association Scholarship Fund. Fans can skate with the team following Saturday’s game; Free skates are provided by Centre ICE, but fans are responsible for their own helmets.

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

Friday, January 28, 2011

Mike Johnston Nominated For Sportsperson of the Year

Press Release

Portland Winterhawks General Manager & Head Coach Mike Johnston is one of the finalists for the Slats Gill Award for Sportsperson of the Year at Sunday’s Oregon Sports Awards.

The award goes to the outstanding coach, administrator or organization from an Oregon-based team at any level of competition in the calendar year 2010.

“I’m incredibly honored to be a finalist for the Slats Gill Award,” said Johnston. “I see this not just as a nomination for myself, but for our entire organization.”

The other nominees for the Slats Gill Award are Linfield College baseball coach Scott Brosius, Aloha High School football coach Chris Casey, University of Oregon football coach Chip Kelly and University of Oregon cross country/track and field coach Vin Lananna.

The Winterhawks will also be represented at the Oregon Sports Awards by defenseman Brett Ponich and forward Craig Cunningham, who will be presenters for one of the awards.

The Oregon Sports Awards take place Sunday in the Tiger Woods Center at Nike’s headquarters. The event will be hosted by Ahmad Rashad and later broadcast on Comcast Sports Northwest.

Full season, 18, 10 and 5-game ticket plans for the 2010-11 season are on sale now. Group rates start at just 10 people and every ticket includes a free Winterhawks hat. Contact the Winterhawks at 503-236-HAWK or seats@winterhawks.com to secure the best seats.

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

Attack to Honor Maltby on February 19th

Press Release

The Owen Sound Attack is pleased to announce that on Saturday, February 19th, 2011, they will be honoring former Owen Sound Platers Captain Kirk Maltby in a pre-game ceremony that will see a banner raised to the rafters in the Harry Lumley Bayshore Community Centre.

Maltby, a Cambridge, ON. native played three seasons for the Owen Sound Platers from 1989-1992. During those three seasons in Owen Sound, Maltby scored 96 times while adding 88 assists for 184 points in 191 games played. After scoring 50 goals in the 1992/1992 season, Maltby was selected in the 3rd round (65th overall) by the Edmonton Oilers. Maltby played parts of three seasons with the Oilers before joining Detroit during the 1995/1996 season, a move that would change Maltby’s career.

During his fourteen seasons in Detroit, Maltby played in 908 regular season games, accumulating 107 goals, 115 assists to go along with 618 Penalty Minutes. Maltby played his 1000th career NHL Regular Season game (played 164 with Edmonton) on February 27th, 2009 vs. the Los Angeles Kings. His best statistical season was 2002–03, when he set career highs in goals (14), assists (23), points (37), and penalty minutes (91).

Maltby’s most notorious achievements occurred with the Detroit Red Wings where he won four Stanley Cups during the 1997, 1998, 2002 and 2008 playoffs. In 169 Playoff contests, Maltby scored 16 times while adding 15 assists to go along with 149 PIMS.

On October 12, 2010, Maltby officially announced his retirement from the NHL. The same day he also announced he will take a job as a pro scout with the Detroit Red Wings.

Kirk now resides in the Grosse Pointe, Michigan area during the season and splits his off-season between his Michigan home and Hespeler, Ontario residence. He and his wife Wendy have a daughter named Ella, born March 22, 2004 and fraternal twins: son Landon and daughter Leighton, born July 17, 2008.

The Attack will be hosting the Oshawa Generals on February 19th with game time at 7:30pm with Maltby and his family present.

(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 eleventh 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 11
RANK
TEAM
LEAGUE
LAST WEEK RANK
WEEKS IN RANKINGS
1
Toronto Marlies
GTHL
1
11
2
Don Mills Flyers
GTHL
2
11
3
Toronto Jr. Canadiens
GTHL
3
11
4
Detroit Honeybaked
USA
4
7
5
Mississauga Senators
GTHL
6
11
6
Elgin-Middlesex Chiefs
ALLIANCE
7
11
7
Oakville Rangers
OMHA
8
4
8
York-Simcoe Express
OMHA
9
9
9
Hamilton Jr. Bulldogs
OMHA
-
1
10
Ottawa Senators
ODMHA
5
11






Honourable Mention




Ottawa Jr. 67's
ODMHA
10
1

Welland Tigers
OMHA
-
7

Markham Majors
GTHL
-
2


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

Thursday, January 27, 2011

Top Prospects Tournament rosters announced

Press Release

The North American Hockey League (NAHL) has announced the rosters for next month’s Top Prospects Tournament, sponsored by SBK Hockey, which will be held from Feb. 20-22 at the Ice Cube in Ann Arbor, Mich.

At the event, four teams - Team Central, Team North, Team South and Team West - will play a three-game round robin. Each team consists of a 20-man roster, with minor player crossover amongst the four teams.

Team Central

Team North
Team South
Team West

All NAHL players were eligible for selection, and the number of players represented by each NAHL team is based on each team’s winning percentage within their division as of Jan. 17.

Bobcats head coach Layne Sedevie will serve as the head coach for Team Central, with Chill head coach Garrett Strot serving as the assistant coach; RoadRunners head coach Scott Langer will lead Team South, with Tornado head coach Tony Curtale assisting; Ice Dogs head coach Josh Hauge will be the head coach of Team West, with Alaska head coach Brian Huebel assisting; and Bandits head coach Jeff Brown will serve as the head coach of Team North, with Jets head coach Dane Litke serving as the assistant coach.

In conjunction with the Top Prospects Tournament, all North American Prospects Hockey League (NAPHL) teams - Midget Major, Midget Minor and Bantam Major - will compete in the Championship Tournament Series for the right to be crowned league champions. That event will run from Feb. 18-21 at the Troy Sports Center in Troy, Mich., with the three division championship games being played at the Ice Cube.

The North American 3 Hockey League (NA3HL) will also have representation at the Top Prospects Tournament, as two NA3HL all-star teams will compete against each other at the event. The NA3HL will also extend invitations to other USA Hockey-sanctioned Tier III Junior A leagues to participate with all-stars teams.

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)

Weeks Hockey Organization Establishes Kevin MacLean Trust

Press Release

Weeks Hockey Organization announces the establishment of the Kevin MacLean Trust to assist Kevin and his family with costs they will encounter during Kevin’s rehabilitation.

Kevin, a former captain of the Weeks Jr. A Crushers and current member of the Weeks Hockey Organization Board of Directors, suffered a serious head injury in early January and remains in hospital in Halifax.

“Weeks Hockey Organization Board of Directors has established a Trust for the benefit of Kevin MacLean and Family as they deal with the health consequences arising from Kevin’s snowmobile accident”, said Board President Wade Taylor.

Taylor stated, “There have been many offers of support for Kevin and his family. Kevin is an integral part of our Organization and hockey in Pictou County. He is the only 4 year player in the history of the Junior A Crushers and his evolvement from a walk on to team captain and one of the most respected players in the League is a testament to his dedication and character. Our Board wants to take a leadership position in helping Kevin and his family in these tough times and we know the greater hockey community will join us.”

Taylor advised that the proceeds of the 50/50 draw during Thursday’s game will be used to establish the Trust. Additional contributions may be made through the website (www.weekscrushershockey.com) or by cheque, payable to the “Kevin MacLean Family Trust”, c/o Weeks Junior A Crushers” and sent to Weeks Hockey Organization, 36 Maple Avenue, New Glasgow, B2H 2B2.

The Trust will be administered by the Executive of the Weeks Hockey Organization Board.

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

NAUTA CHOOSES QUINNIPIAC

Press Release

Wayne, NJ - At 6'6 235 pounds, John Nauta, has been one of the most imposing figures in the EJHL to shooters. The starting EJHL southern division all-star goaltender and Hitmen dynamo has made his college decision: Quinnipiac University. Nauta, who leads the EJHL in wins (18), goals against average (1.52), save percentage (.942) and shut outs (4), will join former Hitmen stand out and 2010 Quinnipiac rookie of the year Jeremy Langlois in Hamden, CT, this fall.

Nauta came to the Hitmen from the QMJHL thus he will have to sit out the 2011-2012 ECAC season but will be eligible for the 2012-2013 season. Garnering a lot of NHL interest, Nauta was torn on his path early in the EJHL season, but has since worked with a tutor, taken his S.A.T and is ready to take his talents back to school.

"I have grown up a lot this year, and really seen what is important in my life," commented Nauta. "The Hitmen and its structure was exactly what I needed. When I decided to go to the 'Q' it was strictly for hockey. I was young, I got some bad advice, and now that chapter is behind me. I have learned from my mistakes and I am so happy for the opportunity that coach Harris and Hunt afforded me here in Jersey."

The Hitmen back stop and only repeat EJHL defensive player of the week went on to say, "the Hitmen way, the unwavering attention to detail in everything we do, the nutritional program and off ice training really took my game to the next level. On top of that it changed the way I live, the way I eat, how I spend my free time, its an amazing program. I would really like to thank Coach Harris for giving me the opportunity to play here and my parents for affording me to play here. My mom and dad are ecstatic that I am back on the path to college, and I am so excited that coach Pecknold has given me the chance to play at Quinnipiac, I could not be happier!"

Nauta comes from an amazingly athletic family. John's dad, Steve, was the starting center at Michigan in the late 80's playing under legendary coach, Bo Schembechler. After Michigan, Steve Nauta played in the NFL. Nauta's two older sisters are both competitive swimmers at the University of Georgia and Tennessee respectively, both training for the upcoming summer olympics.

Hitmen head coach, Toby Harris, commented on Nauta's commitment, "John has been a God send this season. He has done everything we have asked of him. He has worked hard off the ice to get himself into great shape and that has paid major dividends to both the Nauta and Hitmen families. I am so happy that I was able to help John in attaining just one of his childhood dreams, he is a great kid, with a very The Bobcats are getting a very good goaltender but more importantly a wonderful person."

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

Wednesday, January 26, 2011

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 18 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 18

Rank
Team (Record)
Last Week Rank
Number of Weeks Ranked
1
Saint John Sea Dogs (38-5-1-2)
1
15
2
Mississauga St. Michael's Majors (34-8-0-2)
2
18
3
Saskatoon Blades (35-10-0-2)
4
18
4
Montreal Juniors (33-7-4-3)
5
12
5
Quebec Remparts (34-10-1-2)
3
17
6
Red Deer Rebels (32-12-1-4)
9
9
7
Saginaw Spirit (31-11-3-1)
6
16
8
Niagara IceDogs (29-11-2-3)
10
3
9
Drummondville Voltigeurs (31-12-5-1)
-
8
10
Portland Winterhawks (32-14-0-3)
-
13





Honourable Mention:



Ottawa 67's (29-15-1-1)
-
5

Spokane Chiefs (29-12-4-2)
-
0

Gatineau Olympiques (30-13-2-3)
8
2

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

Details announced for Otters Alumni Night

Press Release

The Erie Otters of the Ontario Hockey League have announced the alumni that are returning to celebrate the team’s 1000th regular season game on Saturday, February 5 against the Windsor Spitfires.

Returning for Alumni Night (presented by M.A. Sprickman Heating & Cooling, Lake Erie Spine & Injury Center, Erie Times-News, Iron Workers Local Union No. 3, Sluggers Sports Bar and Grill and WJET-TV/FOX 66) are former Otters forwards Chris Berti, Sean Courtney, Brandon Cullen, Steve Nimigon and Brad Yeo; defenseman Mike McKeown and goaltender T.J. Aceti.

Berti is one of five Otters returning from the 2001-02 OHL Championship team. The native of Oshawa, Ont. played 80 games for the Otters after coming to the team in a trade from Sarnia on January 7, 2001.

Courtney was the hero of the 2002 OHL Championship, scoring the overtime goal in Game 5 that set off a huge celebration at Tullio Arena. He played three seasons in Erie, tallying 90 points in 167 games with the Otters.

Cullen suited up in 89 games for the Otters and posted 73 points and 249 penalty minutes in a season and a half with the Otters. The St. Catharines, Ont. native collected 29 points during the 2002 OHL Playoffs, placing third on the Otters. He played professional hockey for four seasons with the ECHL’s Charlotte Checkers and American Hockey League’s Hartford Wolf Pack.

Nimigon was the first captain in Otters history during the 1996-97 season. In his lone season in Erie, Nimigon picked up 61 points and collected 111 penalty minutes. He was also very active in the community while with the Otters, and the team’s humanitarian award was named after him following the season.

Yeo played parts of three seasons in Erie from 1998 to 2001, appearing in 176 games and scoring 125 points. Yeo’s 435 penalty minutes are fifth on Erie’s all-time list.

McKeown played in 150 games for the Otters from 2000 to 2003. The defenseman appeared in all 21 games of the 2002 OHL Playoffs and was a steady presence on the blue line during his time in Erie.

Aceti was the goaltender that helped lead the Otters to their only championship to date. The popular netminder came over in a trade from Oshawa on October 22, 2001 and proceeded to post some of the best goaltending numbers in team history, as he is second in goals-against-average (3.08), fifth in wins (37) and fourth in shutouts (4). He was named as the best goaltender at the 2002 Memorial Cup.

The first 2,500 fans through the gates on Feb. 5 will receive a commemorative poster featuring the players returning for the night. Following the game, there will be a special meet and greet with the alumni and current players and a post-game VIP party at Sluggers Sports Bar and Grill.

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

Banner Five inducted into Winkler Flyers' Hall of Fame

Press Release

As the Winkler Flyers celebrate their 30th year in the Manitoba Junior Hockey League, the hockey club has established a permanent way to recognize those who played a large role in making the Flyers what they are today. General Manager Henry Siemens announced Monday, the creation of the Winkler Flyers Hall of Fame.

There have been many great players, coaches and builders over the years and five special people will make up the Hall of Fame class of 2011. Steve Harder, Ed Belfour and Wade Sambrook will go in the player category. Former captain and Head Coach Peter Derksen will enter the hall in the coaching category and team founder Dan Giesbrecht will go in the builder category.

Siemens says they have been struggling the last number of years to find a way to permanently recognize and celebrate the team's history. He adds they looked at a number of ways to do that and the Hall of Fame will give Flyer fans a constant reminder of the good things that have happened, the great season's they've enjoyed, and some of the great players that have stepped on the ice.

Steve Harder played for the Flyers from 1981-1986 and won numerous team and league awards. The Winkler native was one of the first true greats to wear the Orange and Black uniform.

Wade Sambrook played in Winkler for five seasons and patrolled the Flyers blue-line when Winkler won the MJHL Championship, Anavet Cup, and made it all the way to the Centennial Cup final in 1991-92.

Ed Belfour's accomplishments speak for themselves. The Carman product played in Winkler from 1984-86. He then went to the University of North Dakota before making his way to the Chicago Blackhawks of the NHL. The future NHL Hall of Fame goaltender won numerous Vezina Trophy's, the Calder Cup, and also won the Stanley Cup with Dallas in 1999.

Peter Derksen played for the Flyers in the 1980's and was their team captain. He later re-joined the team behind the bench and was the Head Coach when they Flyers made their run to the Centennial Cup final in 1992. His fiery coaching style is still remembered by Flyer fans today.

Dan Giesbrecht is one of the main reasons why the Flyers are here today. He was instrumental in the formation of the team in 1980 and served in nearly every capacity during the early years of Flyer hockey.

The class of 2011 will be inducted at the inaugural Winkler Flyers Hall of Fame Dinner on February 24th. The event will replace the annual Winkler Flyers Sportsman's Dinner and will be used to solely celebrate the Winkler Flyers both past and present.

As part of this year's banquet, the Flyers of 2010/11 will be introduced and Head Coach John Marks will offer some hockey insights from his NHL playing days and many decades of coaching professional hockey.

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

Tuesday, January 25, 2011

Oliver Gabriel To Undergo Shoulder Surgery

Press Release

Portland Winterhawks forward Oliver Gabriel will undergo surgery to repair a right shoulder dislocation and will miss the remainder of the season. Gabriel originally suffered the injury in October, then reaggravated it on January 15 in Portland’s 5-2 win in Kamloops.

“Oliver had been having an outstanding season and is incredibly disappointed to have to undergo this surgery,” said Portland Winterhawks General Manager & Head Coach Mike Johnston. “Oliver is a true WHL success story- he was undrafted in the Bantam Draft and worked his way into the league. He was undrafted by the NHL but eventually earned a contract. That work ethic will enable him to overcome this injury and continue his career.”

In 41 games this season Gabriel, 19, set career-highs with 11 goals and 21 assists for 32 points. He began the season in training camp with the National Hockey League’s Columbus Blue Jackets as an undrafted free agent. He played well enough to see action in two preseason games for the Blue Jackets, scoring one goal. He eventually earned a contract with the Blue Jackets, signing a three-year deal on October 7.

In three seasons with the Winterhawks, Gabriel has 27 goals and 40 assists for 67 points in 132 games, and registered six points in 13 playoff games last season.

Full season, 18, 10 and 5-game ticket plans for the 2010-11 season are on sale now. Group rates start at just 10 people and every ticket includes a free Winterhawks hat. Contact the Winterhawks at 503-236-HAWK or seats@winterhawks.com to secure the best seats.

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

Americans Prospect Spagrud Commits to Team

Press Release

KENNEWICK, WA – Tri-City Americans’ General Manager Bob Tory announced today that the team has signed 15-year-old prospect Justin Spagrud to a standard WHL Player's Contract.

Spagrud, a 6’0 160 lb. forward from Gull Lake, Saskatchewan, is currently playing with the Swift Current Legionnaires of the Saskatchewan Midget AAA Hockey league. Heading into the weekend, Spagrud has collected nine goals and 15 points in 32 games. The Americans’ third round (63rd overall) pick from the 2010 bantam draft, Spagrud will also skate for Team Saskatchewan at the 2011 Canada Winter Games, being held in Halifax, Nova Scotia from February 11-27.

“Justin is one of the top 1995-aged players in Western Canada,” Tory explained. “We are pleased that he has chosen the WHL, and our program, to pursue his hockey ambitions.”

Next fall, Spagrud will participate in both the Americans’ rookie and main training camps in Kennewick.

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

LAKE ERIE HOMECOMING

Press Release

TRAVERSE CITY – Speed is the measure of the time it takes to cover a given distance. It can also serve as a means to a college scholarship.

Such is the case for Traverse City North Stars forward Alec Shields, who committed last week to play his college hockey at Div. I Mercyhurst College. The fleet Shields will likely play another season of juniors in 2011-12 before enrolling at the 3,500-student Catholic school located in Erie, Pa.

“It’s a dream come true,” Shields beamed. “Like most of the guys who come in to juniors with a lifelong desire to play college hockey, it’s something I’ve wanted to do since I was a kid. Now I’ll get the chance; It’s a big relief.”

Shields first captured Mercyhurst’s attention at the North American Hockey League’s Showcase event in suburban Minneapolis last September. He took a visit during the Christmas break, and found it a good fit.

“I didn’t know anybody up there,” said Shields. “But I went on the visit, and toured the campus and locker room and facilities and stuff, and it was great.”

Shields has turned it up even more during the North Stars’ prosperous December-January run, scoring 14 points over his last 11 contests. He has posted career highs in goals (12), assists (19) and points (31) this season after spending 22 regular-season games with Traverse City last year. Shields appeared in all 10 games of TC’s protracted playoff run last spring, with a goal and four assists.

“Alec is fast and skilled, and it’s his dynamic playmaking ability that really caught their eye,” said Traverse City head coach/GM Anthony Palumbo. “He’s really made an impact in the time he’s been with us, and I think Mercyhurst really got themselves a player who will do the same at the next level.”

Shields, who hails from suburban Pittsburgh, says having his family so close to Mercyhurst – less than two hours by car – was among the attractive aspects to his signing with the Lakers.

“My dad’s family is from Erie, coincidentally,” he explained. “And it’s pretty close to home but not too close. It’ll be nice to have family get to come to games without too much road time.”

Shields, who has honed his own-zone game during his time in juniors, says there’s even more to improve upon.

“The biggest thing I can’t do is relax and get comfortable now,” he explained. “I need to take this time to make myself a better player, to keep up the same work ethic that has gotten me this far. … I’ve been trying to become a better two-way player in juniors. When I was younger, I was more focused on the offense. Now I know I have to play both ends of the ice.”

Like countless players who spend their youth traveling all over the continent to play hockey – and the family members who often serve as chauffeurs and travel companions – Shields says he’s grateful for those who helped him along the way.

“There are a lot of people to thank,” he said. “Like my midget coach Ralph Murovich, who got me up here to play. Coach Palumbo and Chad – they tendered me and have helped me get better along the way. And of course, my parents, who have always stood behind me as we traveled all over the country. I also have a pretty strong support network back home, like my lifting partners Jason Jacobs, Tyler Bonfanti, and my brother James Shields. No one gets to this point in their playing career without a lot of help and support.”

Shields and the North Stars will play host to the Port Huron Fighting Falcons this weekend at Centre ICE Arena, looking to extend a four-game winning streak. Traverse City (22-12-1) has claimed eight of its last nine, and is looking to climb the jam-packed North Division standings.

“St. Louis is pretty far out front right now, but we’d like to get into that No. 2 seed and get home ice in the first round,” Shields mused. “The goal is always to make it to the Robertson Cup and win it, and I think we have a realistic shot, given the players and experience we have on this team.”

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

Juniors’ Jean-François Bérubé Named Vaughn CHL Goaltender of the Week

Press Release

Toronto, ON – The Canadian Hockey League today announced that Montreal Juniors netminder Jean-François Bérubé is the Vaughn CHL Goaltender of the Week for the week ending January 23. Bérubé won two games with one shutout along with a 0.50 goals-against-average and .977 save percentage.

Bérubé recorded his first shutout of the season on Sunday blanking West Division rivals the Gatineau Olympiques 2-0. He made 26 saves and was named second star of the contest. His week also included a 16-save performance on Friday in a 4-1 win over the Rouyn-Noranda Huskies.

Bérubé, a 19-year-old from Repentigny, Quebec, is playing in his third QMJHL season with the Juniors. The fourth round 2009 NHL Entry Draft pick of the Los Angeles Kings is tied for second in the QMJHL with 22 wins, and has a goals-against-average of 2.69 and save percentage of .897 in 33 games played.

Mark Segal of the Vancouver Giants and Alain Valiquette of the Sudbury Wolves were also considered for the award. Segal went 3-0-0-0 including a shutout win earning a 1.06 goals-against-average and a .953 save percentage, while Valiquette posted a 2-0-0-1 record with a 2.27 goals-against-average along with a .938 save percentage.

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

Chiefs’ Tyler Johnson Named CHL Player of the Week

Press Release

Toronto, ON – The Canadian Hockey League today announced that Tyler Johnson of the Spokane Chiefs is the CHL Player of the Week for the week ending January 23 after producing 10 points in four games scoring two goals and eight assists along with a plus-minus rating of plus-3.

Johnson opened the week with two assists as part of a 6-1 win on the road over the Chilliwack Bruins last Tuesday, before scoring once and adding two assists as second star of a 5-2 victory at home to the Kootenay Ice on Friday. The Chiefs hosted the Kelowna Rockets on Saturday, with Johnson scoring once and adding an assist despite a 5-3 loss. His week wrapped up on Sunday in Portland with three assists despite a 6-5 overtime loss to the Winterhawks who sit just three points ahead of the Chiefs in the WHL’s Western Conference standings.

Johnson, a 20-year-old from Spokane, Washington, is playing in his fourth WHL season with the Chiefs. He currently ranks first in WHL scoring already establishing a career-high with 79 points in 46 games scoring 36 goals and 43 assists.

Gabriel Lévesque of the Acadie-Bathurst Titan and Seth Griffith of the London Knights were also considered for the award. Lévesque scored five goals and two assists for seven points in three games with an impressive plus-minus rating of plus-7, while Griffith had eight points in three games scoring twice and adding six assists.

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

Express forward Massimo Lamacchia signs with Ivy League Brown

Press Release

Coquitlam Express forward and assistant captain Massimo Lamacchia has signed a scholarship to Brown University, the club announced this week.

Lamacchia is in his first season with the Express after spending the last three seasons in the Ontario Junior Hockey League. The Vaughn, Ont. native currently leads Coquitlam in scoring. In 48 games this season, Lamacchia has racked up 26 goals and 28 assists.

The 5-foot-8, 165-pound 19-year-old has been instrumental for the Express both on and off the ice this season and puts the team'scholarship total to four players. (Brad Reid signed with the Rochester Institute of Technology before being picked up by Salmon Arm).

Twelve former BCHL players have received scholarships to Brown University including Aaron Volpatti of the Vancouver Canucks. Brown's roster currenly has three BCHL alumni.

This NCAA Division I scholarship is for the 2011-12 season at the Ivy League university. The franchise is extremely pleased and excited for Lamacchia and wish him the best of luck with the Bears next season.

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

Gladiuk posts two-points-per-game pace on way to POW honours

Press Release

Nanaimo Clippers forward Andrew Gladiuk has been named the British Columbia Hockey League Player of the Week for the week ending January 23, the league announced Monday.

Gladiuk picked up two ponts in each of the Clippers four games last week, helping his club to six of a possible eight points over their Coastal Conference foes. The Surrey native set up the game-winning goal in a 5-4 win over Langley and scored the game-winner the next game in another 5-4 win over Victoria.

The 6-foot-1, 185-pounder cracked the 20-goal mark with his efforts last week and continues to lead Nanaimo in scoring with 56 points on the campaign.

Honourable mentions this week go to Surrey defenceman Steve Koshey (three games, five assists, one 2nd Star, one 3rd Star ), Coquitlam forward Jason Grecica (four games, three goals, five assists, one 3rd Star) and Surrey goalie Karel St. Laurent (three games, two wins, one 2nd Star, one 3rd Star, 1.67 GAA, .950 save percentage).

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

Morrissey to Make WHL Debut Wednesday

Press Release

Prince Albert, Saskatchewan- 15 year-old defenceman Josh Morrissey, the Prince Albert Raiders first round selection, 6th overall in the 2010 Western Hockey League Bantam Draft will make his WHL debut this Wednesday when the Raiders host the Medicine Hat Tigers at 7:00 PM at the Art Hauser Centre.

Morrissey, who plays for the Calgary Royals in the Alberta Midget Hockey League, competed this past weekend at the AMHL All-Star game in Fort Saskatchewan, after being selected by the coaches as a First Team All-Star for the Southern Division. Although he is the only 15 year old on the Royals roster, he is leading the team in scoring as a defenceman with 15 goals and 21 assists for 36 points in 26 games to go along with 40 minutes in penalties. Morrissey is 13th overall in AMHL scoring. The Royals are currently 4th in the AMHL South Division with a 14-8-7 record.

As a 15 year-old Morrissey is allowed to dress for 5 games with the Raiders as the schedule for the Royals permits. Wednesday it works out the Royals are not in action, so Morrissey will skate for the first time at the Art Hauser Centre.

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

Monday, January 24, 2011

Captain to Join Sioux Program

Press Release

Veteran defenseman Andrew Panzarella will attend the University of North Dakota and play hockey for the Sioux beginning in 2011-2012, the Waterloo Black Hawks announced Monday.

Playing his fourth season in the USHL, Panzarella is enjoying his best year offensively. The 6-2, 191-pound blue-liner has three goals and eleven assists in 32 games during 2010-2011. During his first three seasons with the Des Moines Buccaneers, Tri City Storm, and the Hawks, Panzarella appeared in a combined total of 163 regular season games with five goals and 17 assists. He has accumulated over 100 penalty minutes in each campaign. The Black Hawks voted the Columbia, Maryland native their captain in October.

“Andrew’s best hockey is still in front of him,” said Waterloo Black Hawks Head Coach P.K. O’Handley. “This is kind of a fairytale ending to his time in the league, and his story is a great example of what the USHL can do for a player who is willing to make the most of their opportunity.”

Panzarella is now one of a dozen Waterloo Black Hawks currently committed to an NCAA Division I university. Defenseman Zach Palmquist (Minnesota State) is the only other Hawk currently targeted for a Western Collegiate Hockey Association institution. Former Black Hawks defenseman Ryan Hill is currently a member of the Sioux.

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

LANCERS FORWARD TABRUM COMMITS TO DENVER

Press Release

OMAHA, NE – The Omaha Lancers of the United States Hockey League (USHL) are pleased to announce that forward Matt Tabrum has committed to the University of Denver and will join the Pioneers in the Fall of 2011. A second-year forward from Colorado Springs, Colorado, Tabrum has recorded 10 goals, two assists and 12 points in 30 games this season. At the season’s midway point, Tabrum has recorded just 16 penalty minutes while posting three power play goals, two game-winning markers and 62 shots on goal. He was acquired by Omaha on January 3rd in a trade with Sioux Falls that sent forwards Tom O’Regan and Mitch Hughes to the Stampede.

The Colorado Springs native saw limited action last season during his rookie campaign in the USHL after an injury limited him to just two games and zero points in Sioux Falls a season ago. Tabrum was originally selected 97th overall (Round 8) by the Stampede in the 2009 USHL Entry Draft.

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

Junior Hockey Player Suspended for Eight Games for Methylhexaneamine Violations

Press Release

(Ottawa, Ontario - January 24, 2011) - The Canadian Hockey League (CHL) and the Canadian Centre for Ethics in Sport (CCES) announced today that a junior hockey player was assessed an eight-game suspension for an anti-doping rule violation. The violation resulted from a urine sample collected during in-competition doping control in December 2010 which revealed the presence of methylhexaneamine, a prohibited stimulant.

Under the rules of the CHL Anti-Doping Policy, Spencer Asuchak, a player with the Prince George Cougars of the Western Hockey League, was assessed an eight game suspension for a first violation for using a prohibited substance.

"In reviewing this matter, we are completely satisfied that the player used a supplement which had been purchased over the counter at a retail outlet and had no knowledge that it contained a prohibited stimulant under our national CHL Anti-Doping Policy," stated CHL Vice President and WHL Commissioner Ron Robison. "The Canadian Hockey League is fully committed to the ongoing education for all CHL players, all of whom participate in the CHL Anti-Doping program and we will continue to work with the CCES to support the health and welfare of all of our players."

Methylhexaneamine is banned in-competition under the World Anti-Doping Agency's Prohibited List, which is recognized by the CHL. In Canada, methylhexaneamine is not an ingredient in medications licensed by Health Canada but can be found in supplements. "This violation once again underscores the potential dangers of supplement use," said Paul Melia, President and CEO of the CCES. "Athletes must exercise extreme caution when considering the use of supplements, as ultimately they are responsible for what substances are in the products they consume."

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

USHL Honors - Week 17

Press Release

The United States Hockey League today announced the weekly award winners for the 17th week of the 2010-11 USHL regular season.

Congratulations to forward Ryan Dzingel of the Lincoln Stars, named CCM Offensive Player of the Week; defenseman Matt Prapavessis of the Lincoln Stars, selected as CCM Defensive Player of the Week; and Stephon Williams of the Sioux Falls Stampede who earned honors as the Reebok USHL Goaltender of the Week.

Dzingel scored seven points (4g, 3a) and posted a plus-six rating as the Stars captured five of a possible six points in the standings during the week. The 18-year-old tallied three points (1g, 2a), including an assist on the overtime winner, in Wednesday's 4-3 win over Sioux City. Dzingel then notched his first USHL career hat trick and dished out an assist for a four-point game in Friday's 8-4 victory against Sioux City. The big night extended his point streak to six games (6g, 6a). He also posted a plus-five rating in the contest which equaled a League season high. The native of Wheaton, Illinois is playing in his second USHL season and is currently 11th overall in League scoring with 34 points (15g, 19a) through 26 games played.

Prapavessis tallied six points (2g, 4a) and a plus-two rating in three contests for the Stars. He had a hand in all four goals (2g, 2a), including the overtime winner, in Wednesday's 4-3 win against Sioux City. The 19-year-old defenseman then dished out two assists in Friday's victory. Prapavessis is a native of Oakville, Ontario and competing in his first USHL season. He is 10th among USHL defensemen in scoring with 16 points (5g, 11a) despite being limited to just 20 of his team's 32 games this season. He has posted an even-or-better plus/minus in each of his last seven games.

Williams won both his starts for the Stampede and totaled 49 saves. He turned aside 24 shots in the 3-1 win at Fargo on Monday. The goaltender then stopped 25 shots in Wednesday's 3-1 victory over Tri-City. It was the sixth straight win for Williams who has allowed just one goal each in five of those victories. The 17-year-old from Fairbanks, Alaska earns the League's goaltending honor for the second straight week. He is playing his rookie USHL season and has compiled a 13-3-4 record in 22 games for Sioux Falls.

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

Knights’ Griffith Named OHL Player of the Week

Press Release

Toronto, ON – The Ontario Hockey League today announced that Seth Griffith of the London Knights is the OHL Player of the Week for the week ending January 23. He led the Knights to three wins this week recording eight points including two goals and six assists with a plus-minus rating of plus-3.

Griffith’s week was highlighted by a career-high five-point game on Sunday in Oshawa as part of a 6-5 overtime win over the Generals. He scored one goal and added four assists which included setting up Jared Knight for the game-tying and game-winning goals to receive second star honours. Griffith also scored the game-winner on Friday night in a 4-2 win over the Peterborough Petes, and recorded two assists on Thursday as the Knights defeated the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds 4-3 in a shootout.

Griffith, who turned 18 on January 4, is from Wallaceburg, ON. Eligible for the 2011 NHL Entry Draft, he has 41 points in 44 games playing in his first full OHL season with the Knights after playing in just 17 games last season.

A pair of Kingston Frontenacs were also considered for the award this week including forward Ryan Spooner and defenceman Taylor Doherty. Spooner produced nine points in three games scoring five goals and four assists, while Doherty scored twice and added four assists. In goal, Alain Valiquette of the Sudbury Wolves led the league with 106 saves in three games posting a 2-0-0-1 record with a goals-against-average of 2.27 and save percentage of .938.

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

Vipers biggest movers in national rankings, Kings hold top five

Press Release

The Canadian Junior Hockey League (CJHL) announced today its 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 Weekly Top 20 as of Monday, January 24, 2011

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

Honorable mention goes to the Kindersley Klippers (SJHL), Melfort Mustangs (SJHL), Dauphin Kings (MJHL), Stouffville Spirit (OJHL), and the Truro Bearcats (MHL).

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)

Source for Sports AJHL Player of the Week: Jan 17th - 23rd, 2011

Press Release

Brooks Bandits Goaltender Jan Obernesser is the Source for Sports AJHL Player of the Week for the week ending January 23rd, 2011. Obernesser was 3-0-1 over the week and leads the AJHL South Division with 25 wins. Obernesser also leads the South Division with 2,229 minutes played. The Bandits are 7-1-2 in the last ten games and are second overall in the South Division with 62 points.

The 18 year-old from Calgary, Alberta represented the AJHL at the 2010 CJHL Prospects Game in December. Obernesser is in his second season with the Bandits.

(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 Jan. 23.

SBK HOCKEY/NORTH PLAYER OF THE WEEK
Alex Brooks - Janesville Jets

Janesville defenseman Alex Brooks connected for two goals and two assists as the Jets skated to a two-game sweep over Springfield. On Friday, the Grand Rapids, Mich., native scored the game-winning goal in overtime and added an assist in a 3-2 victory. The next night, the 19-year-old put forth another one-goal, one-assist effort as the Jets again bested the Jr. Blues, 3-2.

“Alex has been very good for us the last few weeks and he’s taken his game to the next level,” said Jets head coach Dane Litke. “He’s playing with a lot of confidence and we hope he’ll continue his good play down the stretch.”

HONORABLE MENTION: Port Huron’s Rudi Pino; St. Louis forward Evan Stibbard and defenseman Grant Gettinger

SBK HOCKEY/SOUTH PLAYER OF THE WEEK
Sean Keane - Amarillo Bulls

Amarillo forward Sean Keane rang up four assists as the Bulls skated to a 2-0 record. On Saturday, the Rockford, Mich., native picked up a pair of assists, including one on Derek Hills’ game-winning goal, as the Bulls blanked Wichita Falls, 3-0. The next night, the 20-year-old racked up two more assists in Amarillo’s 6-3 triumph over the Corpus Christi IceRays. Keane, who was recently acquired from the Wildcats, was also a plus-1 on the weekend.

“Sean is a fantastic addition to our organization,” said Bulls head coach Dennis Williams. “He creates offense every shift and plays with a physical presence every game. He’ll be a big piece to our team during the second half of the season.”

HONORABLE MENTION: Texas forward J.D. Howard; Topeka forward Davey Middleton

SBK HOCKEY/CENTRAL PLAYER OF THE WEEK
Nick Widing - Owatonna Express

Owatonna forward Nick Widing rang up two goals and two assists as the Express celebrated a two-game sweep over Alexandria. On Friday, the Somerset, Wis., native tallied a pair of goals, including the game-winner, and an assist in a 3-1 victory. The next night, the 19-year-old added another assist as the Express doubled up the Blizzard, 4-2. He was also a plus-4 on the weekend.

“Nick creates opportunities because he’s so strong on the puck,” said Express head coach Chuck Linkenheld. “His speed is deceptive and he’s tough to knock off the puck, which is why he plays so well in traffic.”

SBK HOCKEY/WEST PLAYER OF THE WEEK
Alec Hajdukovich - Fairbanks Ice Dogs

Fairbanks forward Alec Hajdukovich unleashed for two goals and nine assists as the Ice Dogs rolled to a three-game sweep over Texas. On Thursday, the Fairbanks native recorded a goal and three assists, including one on Alexander Jensen’s game-winning marker, in a 5-2 victory. The next night, the 19-year-old tallied a goal and four assists as the Ice Dogs bested the Tornado, 6-5. Hajdukovich, a graduate of the North American Prospects Hockey League, wrapped up the series with a two-assist performance, including one on Gabe Levin’s game-winning goal, in a 3-2 triumph on Saturday. He was also a plus-6 on the weekend.

"Alec has really found his groove and has been performing at a very high level," said Ice Dogs head coach Josh Hauge. "He has a high-end skill level and a great shot, and he and his linemates have paved the way for our recent success."

SBK HOCKEY/GOALIE OF THE WEEK
Tyler Marble - Traverse City North Stars

Traverse City goaltender Tyler Marble backstopped the North Stars to a two-game sweep over Chicago, turning aside 48 of 50 shots. On Friday, the Howell, Mich., native made 25 saves in a 5-1 victory. The next night, the 18-year-old Lake Superior State University recruit stopped 23 shots as the North Stars downed the Hitmen, 6-1.

“Tyler provided us with the type of goaltending you need to win games while challenging for a playoff spot in the tough North Division,” said North Stars head coach Anthony Palumbo. “He competed very hard all weekend and was rewarded for his efforts.”

HONORABLE MENTION: Amarillo’s Nikifor Szczerba; Janesville’s David Jacobson; Motor City’s Jimmy Hamby; Port Huron’s Alex Cantrell; St. Louis’ Tom Comunale; Topeka’s Rasmus Tirronen

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

TYLER JOHNSON WHL PLAYER OF THE WEEK

Press Release

CALGARY, AB. – The WHL Player of the Week is forward Tyler Johnson of the Spokane Chiefs.

Johnson picked up 10 points, scoring two goals and eight assists to go with a +3 rating, in four games over the past week, helping the Chiefs to 2-1-1-0 record.

On Tuesday, January 18th, the Chiefs were in Chilliwack to face the Bruins; Johnson collected a pair of assists in their 6-1 win. On Friday, January 21st the Chiefs hosted the Kootenay Ice; Johnson scored one goal, added two assists and was name the games 2nd star in their 5-2 victory. The next night, Saturday, January 22nd, the Kelowna Rockets were in Spokane to take on the Chiefs. Johnson netted one goal and one assist in a losing effort as the Rockets downed the Chiefs 5-3. On Sunday, January 23rd, in a battle of the top two teams in WHL U.S. Division, the Chiefs travelled to Portland to face the Winterhawks. Johnson picked up three assists in the see-saw affair that saw the Winterhawks come out on top 6-5 in over-time.

Johnson’s 10 points in the past four games has him ranked 1st among all WHL scorers with 79 points (36 goals, 43 assists) in 46 games played. The Chiefs have posted a 7-2-1-0 record in their past ten games and currently sit third in the WHL Western Conference with a record of 29-12-4-2 for 64 points, just three back of the Conference leading Winterhawks .

Johnson, a 20 year-old from Spokane, WA, is playing his fourth season with the Chiefs who made the hometown product their 11th round selection at the 2005 WHL Bantam Draft. He has since gone on to appear in 241 WHL games gathering 111 goals, 135 assists for 246 career points, all while maintaining a +77 plus/minus rating.

The WHL has also nominated Mark Segal of the Vancouver Giants for the CHL Goaltender of the Week Award. Segal posted a 3-0-0-0 record this past week with one shut-out, stopping 61 of 64 shots faced for a 1.06 goals-against average and a 0.953 save percentage. Segal, a native of Vancouver, BC, helped the Giants shut-out the Prince George Cougars 3-0 at home, defeated the Blazers 6-1 in Kamloops and the Chilliwack Bruins 7-3 at home.

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

Gabriel Lévesque, Ben Duffy and Jean-François Bérubé are the TELUS three stars of the week

Press Release

BOUCHERVILLE, Monday, January 24, 2011 – Forwards Gabriel Lévesque and Ben Duffy as well as goaltender Jean-François Bérubé were named today the TELUS three stars of the week from January 17 to January 23, 2011.

Acadie-Bathurst Titan center Gabriel Lévesque is the first star of the week. The forward registered five goals and two helpers for a total of seven points while posting a +7 rating in three games, resulting in three wins against the Moncton Wildcats, the PEI Rocket and the Lewiston MAINEiacs. He also scored his 25th goal of the season while recording his second goal of the game against the PEI Rocket last week.

PEI Rocket center Ben Duffy is the second star of the week after he collected six goals and one assist for a total of seven points in three games. Duffy also managed to keep a +1 rating. Even if his team lost two games last week, Duffy managed to be named the first star of the game twice while also scoring two goals in a loss against the Moncton Wildcats.

Finally, Jean-François Bérubé is the TELUS third star of the week. The Montreal Juniors backstop collected two wins in two games with stellar performances against both Rouyn-Noranda and Gatineau. He finished the week with a 0.50 goals-against-average and a .977 save percentage by stopping 42 of the 43 shots he faced. Berube also registered a shutout against the Gatineau Olympiques last Sunday.

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

COLDWELL AND KOPITAR NAMED ASSISTANT CAPTAINS

Press Release

The Des Moines Buccaneers and Head Coach & General Manager Regg Simon announced today that defenseman Austin Coldwell and forward Gasper Kopitar have been named assistant captains of the 2010 – 2011 Des Moines Buccaneers. This announcement follows the announcement of Connor Kucera as captain of the team.

“It’s time for our team to start being driven internally and to let them take more ownership in how our organization is represented. Wearing a letter on your jersey, especially in our sport, isn’t something that is just given to you and it comes with a lot of responsibility,” said Coach Simon.

Both Coldwell and Kopitar have showed themselves as leaders in the eyes of the coaching staff.

“If you can put the team before yourself, and care more about “we” as opposed to “me,” you are showing leadership. That’s part of being a guy that genuinely cares about his teammates,” said Coach Simon.

Coldwell, a 20-year-old Vancouver, Washington native, has played for the Buccaneers for two seasons. During the 2009 – 2010 season he appeared in 58 games and accumulated 12 goals and 24 assists. This season he has played in all 28 games for the Buccaneers and has recorded 6 goals and 14 assists. He currently leads the Buccaneers in points with 20 points.

Kopitar, an 18-year-old Jesencice, Slovenia native, is in his first season with the Buccaneers. He has appeared in 23 games and recorded 4 goals and 7 assists.

Both players have proven themselves, on and off the ice, taking part in various community appearances and the Buccaneers “Stick with Reading” program. But Coach Simon is quick to point out that the team has a lot of leadership and confidence.

“We have a room full of guys that can be leaders in their own way. Just because you don’t have a patch on your jersey doesn’t mean you can’t be a leader,” said Coach Simon.

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

Fallen Commits to Yale University

Press Release

Cedar Rapids RoughRiders defenseman Thomas Fallen has committed to play collegiate hockey at Yale University following his USHL career.

Fallen, 19, is playing in his second USHL season and has posted 10 points (3g, 7a) with a plus-seven rating in 26 games for the Riders. He collected 15 points (2g, 13a) and a plus-13 rating in 50 games for Cedar Rapids during his rookie USHL season in 2009-10.

The Plymouth, Minnesota native was also part of the U.S. Select Team made up of entirely USHL players that captured gold at the World Junior A Challenge in November.

Fallen will be joined at Yale by RoughRiders teammate Stu Wilson who is also committed to the school.

Yale is a member of the ECAC and is currently the #1 ranked team in the nation.

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

Sunday, January 23, 2011

Maxime Dumond Committs to Alaska-Fairbanks DI for 2012

Press Release

Braves Forward Maxime Dumond has committed to Division I University of Alaska-Fairbanks. Max will join the Nanooks for the 2012 Collegiate season.

Max has been an impact player for the Braves over the last two-and-a-half seasons. He has been on a point-per-game pace this year as the teams second-leading point producer with 10 goals and 25 assists for 35 points in 34 games. Last year he participated in the CJHL Top Prospects game in Winkler, MB and was selected as the Captain of Team CJHL(now CHL Tier 1) at the Battle of Ontario in Pembroke.

The University of Alaska-Fairbanks Nanooks compete in the Division I Central Collegiate Hockey Association against teams in Michigan, Ohio and Illinois and are currently in 4th place of 11 teams with a 6-5-3-2 record.

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

WILLOWS TO UNH

Press Release

Wayne, NJ - EJHL leading scorer, southern division all-star, and Hitmen team captain Matt Willows has accepted a scholarship to play at the University of New Hampshire for the fall of 2011. Willows, a two year EJHL veteran, finished the 2009-2010 season 5th in EJHL goals with 29 and was 10th in EJHL scoring with a 29-29-58 line. This season Willows has been on a torrid scoring pace with a 22-34-56 scoring line in just 31 games, good for tops in the EJHL.

"Matt is a tremendous player, and an even better person," commented coach Toby Harris. "After having an awesome season in 09-10 and gaining a ton of exposure, Willows received a lot of calls from competing leagues but he decided to stay the course and continue what he started here in the EJHL with the Hitmen. That is the reason why this signing is so special to the Hitmen. In this day and age of 'grass is greener' Willows loyalty and perseverance has paid off as Matt will suit up for one of the top programs in the country. I could not be happier for Matt and his family!"

After setting the New York state public school scoring record in 2008-2009 Willows decided to go south and don the Hitmen carolina blue.

"I am so happy I decided to play for the Hitmen," said Willows. "Coach Harris and Hunt have raised my level of play immensely since I arrived in Jersey. The off ice training, the attention to detail in practice, the game plans, have all prepared me for the next level. I can not thank the coaches, Mr Reiss and most of all my team mates for helping me on my journey." Willows went on to say, "I spoke with coach Borek back in 2007 so UNH has always been on the top of my list of schools. When they called me and offered, I could not commit fast enough. I really look forward to playing at UNH and taking my game to the next level. I would also like to thank my mom and dad for all the time that they have put in to me and my career, the sacrifices they have made, and affording me the opportunity to play here for the Hitmen."

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

Jeff Henson’s 500th Broadcast

Press Release

It has been said that everyone that rides on our bus is an important member of our team, from the bus driver in the front to the player who sits in the back. Jeff is with us 60 games a season and is a member of the Storm Family. He is the voice that all of our extended families listen to in order to stay connected with our team. He is as passionate about the game of hockey as the rest of us are and we appreciate is dedication to the Storm Hockey Club.

Jeff adds flair to every single hockey game he broadcasts, which gives you not only the play by play but the visualization that you are indeed actually at the game enjoying every moment.

The Grande Prairie Storm is both fortunate as well as honored to have had the privilege of working with Jeff Henson over the past few seasons as our official voice to the Alberta Junior Hockey League.

The Grande Prairie Storm congratulates Jeff on his 500th Junior A Broadcast, and we look forward to the next 500.

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

Saturday, January 22, 2011

Frédérick Roy suspended three games

Press Release

BOUCHERVILLE, Saturday, January 22, 2011 - The Quebec Major Junior Hockey League Disciplinary Prefect, Raymond Bolduc, today suspended Quebec Remparts forward Frédérick Roy for three games for boarding which occurred during yesterday’s game versus the Océanic in Rimouski.

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.

The Disciplinary Prefect will not be available for further comment.

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