Sunday, July 31, 2011

Chill's Connor Gaarder commits to North Dakota

Press Release

The Coulee Region Chill of the North American Hockey League (NAHL) are pleased to announce that forward Connor Gaarder has accepted an offer to play NCAA Division I hockey this fall for the University of North Dakota of the Western Collegiate Hockey Association (WCHA). "It feels great," Gaarder said. "It's always been a dream to go play up there. It feels great to be a Fighting Sioux."

"This is a tremendous opportunity for Connor and we are very happy for him,” said Coulee Region head coach Garrett Strot. “He was one of the top two-way forwards in the league last season and North Dakota is getting a great competitor and a quality individual."

Gaarder, who is 20 years old and from Edina, Minnesota, was second on the Chill in scoring last season with 61 points in 58 regular season games. He also led the team in assists during the regular season with 37. Gaarder was tied for second in team scoring during the playoffs with eight points in nine games played, as the Chill fell one game short of winning the Central Division playoff championship.

Gaarder was one of the few players in the NAHL to play in both NAHL Top Prospects Tournaments this past season in both Boston, MA and Ann Arbor, MI. In Boston, he helped Team Weight to the Top Prospects title and was second on the team in scoring. While playing for Team Central in Ann Arbor, he was second in scoring on the team. "Both of those prospects tournaments he showed he was one of the best players on the ice," Strot said. “ I think that made a significant impact on the scouts and was well worth it for him.”

"It's going to be really competitive," Gaarder said. "We'll all be battling for playing time and I'm really looking forward to the challenge and the opportunity."

Gaarder is the 10th Chill player to commit to a NCAA school this season. The rest include: Scott Bell (University of Wisconsin-Stout), Matt Blomquist (Bentley University), Lucas Dillon (University of Wisconsin-Stout), Zac Frischmon (Mercyhurst College), Micky Knox (University of Wisconsin-Stout), Mike McDonald (Air Force Academy), Paul Moberg (Air Force Academy), David Mylrea (St. John's Universit) and Berkley Scott (University of Wisconsin-Stout).

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

Kings Add BITE To Already Solid Blue Line

Press Release

The Dauphin Kings have acquired 20 year old defenceman YOHANN MATHIEU from the Bridgewater Lumberjacks. Mathieu is a stay at home defenceman who keeps things simple and plays the opposition very tough. The 6'4", 214 pound d-man had 4 goals, 10 assists and a whopping 367 PIMS in 89 games of his first 2 seasons.

Kings GM/Head Coach Marlin Murray comments on the acquisition. "Yohann is a very good kid. He is happy to come out west and finish off his junior career as a King. We have a lot of skill on the back end coming to camp and Yohann will give us the size and sandpaper we need. He's tough to play against and can't wait for camp to start."

Dauphin Kings Camp will start the last weekend in August.

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

NEW FACES ON STORM BOARD

Press Release

The Grande Prairie Storm board will have a new look – with some old faces.

A former Storm assistant coach and a former player have accepted positions on the Storm board.

Brett Stephenson, who was an assistant coach when Cory Clouston coached the Storm in the late-1990s, is one of two new members of the Storm board. The other is Devon Wardley. Wardley was a defenceman with the Storm from 1997-2000 and the team’s Most Valuable Defenceman his last season.

Stephenson is currently the Program Director for the Edge North hockey program while Wardley is an accountant at Fletcher Mudryk.

“Having two individuals like Brett and Devon on the board certainly adds to the quality of the organization,” said Darrell Radbourne (photo) , who was elected board chairman at the first board meeting following the Annual General Meeting of the Swan City Hockey Association in June. “They both have a vast knowledge of the organization and lots of hockey experience. The board is looking forward to having them join the group.”

Radbourne takes over as chairman from Lionel Jones, who served in the position for two years.

“It’s an honor to serve as chairman of the Storm,” said Radbourne, who was vice-chairman for two years. “The Storm program is considered one of the best in Junior A hockey in Canada and it is my hope to keep it strong during my two-year tenure.”

Also returning to the board are Kelly Chalmers (vice-chairman), Wayne Zack (treasurer), Ray Mildenberger (governor), Rick Nordstrom (associate governor) and directors Kevin Bowers, Miguel Lopez, D.J. Golden and Murray Toews.

Both Stephenson and Wardley will act as non-voting directors for one year and could be voted in as Swan City Hockey Association members after serving a year on the board. Zack was voted in as a member at the June meeting.

The Storm, a non-profit organization, is operated by the Swan City Hockey Association, which is made up of founders and members. The founders are the original group who formed the team back in 1995 while members are those who were voted in.

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

Saturday, July 30, 2011

North Stars make pair of deals

Press Release

THUNDER BAY, Ont. – The Thunder Bay North Stars of the Superior International Junior Hockey League announced Monday that the club has made some changes to their roster in a pair of separate deals.

The first move saw the team exchange the Hockey Canada playing rights of forward Brendan Burge sending them to the Weyburn Red Wings of the Saskatchewan Jr. Hockey League in return for the rights to former North Stars defenceman Taylor Desserre.

Thunder Bay also secured the Hockey Canada playing rights of forward Brandon Briere from the Kelowna Chiefs of the Kootenay International Jr. Hockey League.

The six-foot-three-inch Desserre, who hails from Atikokan, Ont., will be entering his final season of Jr. hockey. In 71 games previously with the Stars the defenceman has accumulated 13 points and 103 penalty minutes.

Burge recorded 18 points in as many games with Thunder Bay this past season.

In Briere, the North Stars pick up a 19-year-old forward who hails from Salmon Arm, B.C.

He had recorded 11 goals and 34 assists in 69 career KIJHL contests.

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

Another signing by the Brockville Braves

Press Release

Jason Hawkins announces another signing by the Brockville Braves. After a long drawn out negotiation session, David Ferreira of Riverside NJ has signed with the Brockville Braves.

David’s hockey future and opportunities were option loaded. With the DI commit to Clarkson in his back pocket he was chased by several Tier I teams. He was offered a position in the BCHL, but the 17 year old (turns 18 in October) has opted to stay a little closer to home and closer to his future academic home, Clarkson University.

Although not an easy commute for his parents, it is less than a days drive and certainly much closer for new Clarkson coach, Casey Jones, to keep his eye on his future player.

David will be joining the Braves when they hit the ice in earnest come August 22.
Welcome to Brockville, David.

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

Kraus Joins Team

Press Release

The Revelstoke Grizzlies organization is proud to announce the addition of Kevin Kraus as an Assistant Coach. Kevin will be joining new Head Coach Randy Quackenbush and Associate Coach Darren Komonoski.

Drafted by the Kamloops Blazers in 2004.
2006-2007 Kamloops Blazers ,WHL
2007-2008 Tri City Americans, WHL
2007-2008 Vernon Vipers BCHL
2008-2009 Vernon Vipers BCHL
2009-2010 Vernon Vipers (Captain) BCHL
2010-2011 CHL & SPHL Pro Hockey

Kevin was a hard working player who has won 2 National Championships with the Vernon Vipers. Kevin was the Vipers Team Captain in the 2009-2010 Season.

We are extremely excited to have Kevin with our organization.

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

Friday, July 29, 2011

HITMEN CLAIM MILLER FROM CHIEFS

Press Release

The Spokane Chiefs have announced that 20-year-old forward Kenton Miller has been claimed on waivers by the Calgary Hitmen. Miller appeared in 173 games over three seasons in Spokane, recording a career high 12 goals and 31 points in 2009-10 as an 18-year-old.

"Kenton was a valuable player for us but with five 20-year-olds returning next season it wasn't going to work with the numbers," Chiefs General Manager Tim Speltz said. Each WHL club is allowed a maximum of three overage players on their roster.

Spokane has four 20-year-olds remaining on their roster; defenseman Corbin Baldwin and forwards Darren Kramer, Steven Kuhn and Matt Marantz.

The Chiefs will open their Annual Fall Camp with ice sessions on Thursday, August 25th. The Red-White scrimmage will be held at 1:00 on Sunday, August 28th.

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

Maple Leafs Sign David Broll

Press Release

Brian Burke, President and General Manager of the Toronto Maple Leafs, announced Friday that the hockey club has signed 2011 draft choice David Broll to a three-year entry level contract.

Broll, a 6-1, 225-pound forward, was the Maple Leafs’ sixth choice, selected 152nd overall at the 2011 NHL Entry Draft. The 18-year-old split the 2010-11 season between Ontario Hockey League’s Erie Otters and the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds. In 41 games with Erie he collected 22 points (eight goals, 14 assists) with 51 penalty minutes. He finished the season playing 24 games for Sault Ste. Marie registering five goals and seven assists for 12 points along with 34 minutes in penalties.

Broll, a native of Mississauga, Ontario, played for Canada’s Summer Under-18 Team at the 2010 Ivan Hlinka Memorial Tournament in the Czech Republic and Slovakia. In five games, he earned two assists and two penalty minutes, while winning a gold medal with Team Canada.

Broll participated in the Maple Leafs’ 2011 Prospect Camp held earlier this July in Etobicoke at the MasterCard Centre for Hockey Excellence.


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

MAJORS SIGN GOALTENDER SPENCER MARTIN

Press Release

Mississauga, ON – The Mississauga St. Michael’s Majors are pleased to announce the signing of goaltender Spencer Martin.

Martin, 16, was selected by the Majors 18th overall in May’s OHL Priority Selection. He was the first goaltender taken in this year’s draft. He appeared in 50 games during his minor midget season with the Toronto Jr. Canadiens. Playing for a total of 2250 minutes, Martin allowed just 115 goals for a 2.27 goals against average. He also had five shutouts last season. The Oakville, ON native stands 6’1” tall and weighs in at 180 pounds.

Martin will now look ahead to the Majors training camp, beginning in late August.

Majors 2011 season ticket and flex packages are on sale now. Call 905-502-7788 x. 1 for details. The Majors 2011 regular season kicks off on Friday, September 23 in Sudbury. The team opens up at the Hershey Centre a week later on Friday, September 30 with a re-match of the OHL Finals against the Owen Sound Attack.


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

Reid Boucher Signs With Sting

Press Release

Sarnia, ON – Sarnia Sting Head Coach and General Manager Jacques Beaulieu announced today that the hockey club has signed forward Reid Boucher to an OHL Contract and Education Package.

“This caps off a great week for our hockey club. First to be able to sign Connor Murphy and now to add a player the caliber of Reid is very exciting for us. Reid is a pure goal scorer and a big game player who played some of his best hockey in leading his country to a Gold Medal at the Under-18 World Championships.” commented Jacques Beaulieu.

Boucher was a 4th round pick of the New Jersey Devils at the 2011 NHL Entry Draft this past June in Minneapolis.

Originally the Sting’s 14th round pick in the 2009 OHL Priority Selection. A native of Lansing, Michigan Boucher played last season with the US-18 team playing out of the USHL.

Boucher would then lead the US-18 team to a Gold Medal at the 2011 Under-18 World Championships leading the US team in scoring with 8 goals and 2 assists in just 6 games.

Beaulieu adds, “This was a very difficult decision for Reid and his family. At the end of the day the Boucher’s decided this was the best decision to further his development as a player but still have the security of a OHL Education Scholarship Package.”

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

Central Canada Hockey League resigns multi-year agreement with Pointstreak Sports Technologies Inc.

Press Release

TORONTO, ON – Pointstreak Sports Technologies Inc. (“Pointstreak”) and Central Canada Hockey League (CCHL) are pleased to announce they have reached a long-term agreement which will see Pointstreak build and maintain a comprehensive league wide web portal network that will provide more functionality, real-time information and the opportunity to deliver valuable online digital video highlights and additional real estate for their corporate partners. Under the terms of the agreement Pointstreak will continue to provide its industry leading real-time technology platforms of statistics and design and host the CCHL member clubs websites. In addition the league member teams will be utilizing the Live Publisher product to produce instantaneous video highlights. Pointstreak will also continue to provide its real-time scoring technology to the 12 member clubs which will enable up-to-date results to be posted immediately on the CCHL website.


Ken Cook, COO of Pointstreak commented, “Pointstreak is proud to continue its relationship with the CCHL as its website and official real-time scoring and statistics provider and we are excited about the opportunity to aid in the profile and exposure of their student athletes. The ability for CCHL to be able to offer all interested stakeholders (media, parents, scouts, coaches etc.) the ability to follow games in real-time statistically and video highlights via the web or mobile platform demonstrates the leadership of the CCHL.”


Kevin Abrams, Commissioner of CCHL commented, “The Central Canada Hockey League is pleased to continue the progressive and innovative partnership with PSI. In the past five years, our position as leaders across North America at our level has been a result of the concepts and shared visions we have with our friends at Pointstreak. No league enjoys the web based features that we utilize on a daily basis. This makes the fan experience and player benefit combination beyond any of our competitors and the bar continues to be raised from last year’s outstanding Live Publisher feature to this year’s Mobile Applications for smart phones. The foundation of the world best real time scoring and statistics package, and the integration of all member team websites make us the league others continue to follow in the web based hockey industry.”


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

Plymouth Whalers Sign New York First-Rounder J.T. Miller

Press Release

Plymouth Whalers President, General Manager and Head Coach Mike Vellucci announced the signing of 18-year-old forward J.T. Miller, who was originally selected by the Whalers in the fifth round (93th overall) of the 2009 Ontario Hockey League Priority Selection.

After spending the last two seasons in Ann Arbor with the US National Team Developmental Program, Miller was taken this summer in the first round (15th overall) by the New York Rangers in the 2011 National Hockey League Entry Draft.

The Rangers signed Miller to an entry-level contract on Thursday.

“J.T. is a skilled power forward,” said Vellucci. “He already plays what we call Whaler hockey. Given a little time, he should fit in well in Plymouth.”

“I’m very excited to finally get to Plymouth,” Miller said Thursday in a telephone interview. “I’ve had to make a couple of tough decisions over the last few weeks, but I’m happy to get up there and am ready to play. The two other first-rounders (Stefan Noesen and Rickard Rakell) on the team are great players. Plymouth looks like a strong team with one of the best coaches in the league (Mike Vellucci) – if not the best, in my opinion. I’ve seen Plymouth play a few times, especially when Tyler Seguin was there, and it was great to watch.”

“We love the way J.T. plays the game,” said Gordie Clark, the Rangers Director of Player Personnel. ”Everyone who went out to see him came back with (the opinion that) every shift J.T. takes is identical – he expends himself in his skating game and his physical game, making plays and crashing the net. He has all of those qualities and he uses them on every shift.”

“I’m a big forward who likes to use my speed to my advantage,” Miller said. “I try to get pucks to the net and be in front of the net as much as possible.”

“He’s got good size,” said Bob McKenzie of TSN.ca when the Rangers selected Miller at the NHL Entry Draft. “He plays a real, hard physical game, gets in hard on the forecheck and makes things happen. From February on, his game really took off. He elevated his game and played his best hockey of the season at the Under-18 World Championships in April. He was a real force.”

Miller led Team USA in scoring with 13 points in six games en route to capturing the gold medal. Miller was selected by coaches as Team USA’s top player during the tournament.

The addition of Miller give the Whalers three players who were selected in the first round of the 2011 NHL Entry Draft – Miller at 15th overall; Stefan Noesen, who was taken by Ottawa 21st overall; and Rickard Rakell, who was taken by Anaheim 30th overall. Other Whalers taken in the 2011 NHL Entry Draft include Garrett Meurs by Colorado (5th round, 123rd overall) and Matt Mahalak by Carolina (6th round, 163rd overall).

Other current Whalers who are NHL drafts include goaltender Scott Wedgewood by New Jersey (3rd round, 2010); defenseman Austin Levi by Carolina (3rd round, 2010); and center Jamie Devane (3rd round 2009) by Toronto, who may return to the Whalers this season as an overage player.

Miller is expected to report with the rest of the Whalers on Sept. 1 for the start of training camp.

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

RYLAN FERSTER INTRODUCED AS NEW HEAD COACH/GM

Press Release

The Westside Warriors are proud to announce Rylan Ferster as the new Head Coach/GM of the organization.

Ferster signed a three year deal with the Warriors earlier this week.

Rylan comes to the Warriors with experience coaching the Salmon Arm Silverbacks and Victoria Grizzlies of the BCHL.

He has also coached Team Canada West at the World Junior “A” Challenge over the past two years and will serve as GM this year.

Ferster recently was working with Pursuit of Excellence, but couldn’t turn down the chance to be in the BCHL again.

“I moved to Kelowna recently so taking this position was a great match for me,” says Ferster. “The Warriors franchise is one of the flagships of the BCHL and I couldn’t be happier to be a part of the organization. I’ve had the chance to coach in the Okanagan before and to get the chance again makes it even more special.”

“It’s never easy starting something new, but when Mark (Cheyne) offered me the chance to do what I love and be close to my twin girls (Alyssa & Brooke) it wasn’t a hard decision.”

Team President Mark Cheyne says Ferster was an easy choice to target.

“We hired Rylan because he has a high winning percentage in the BCHL,” says Team President Mark Cheyne. “He’s also averaged nine NCAA scholarships in each of his years with the BCHL which is of the utmost importance to our organization.”

Cheyne has also got to know Ferster personally over the past few years and says he enjoys how he coaches.

“I really like his style of hockey and think our fans will enjoy it too. When we’ve played his teams in the past it was never easy and I imagine opposing teams will feel the same way this year.”

Cheyne joked that it helps Ferster is from Saskatchewan like himself.

Ferster said in the coming days he will release the Pre-Season schedule and Training Camp schedule to the public.

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

Cougars Hire Dan O'Connor For 2011-12 Broadcasts

Press Release

The Prince George Cougars are excited to announce Dan O’Connor will be the new “Voice of the Cougars”.

O’Connor takes over the title of Broadcasting and Corporate Sales for the Cougars after spending four seasons calling play by play for the Battlefords North Stars of the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League. O’Connor, a 26 year old product of Tsawwassen, BC, made his hockey broadcasting debut with the Dawson Creek Jr. Canucks of the North West Junior Hockey League in 2006.

"It's truly an honor to be joining the Prince George Cougars organization,” said O’Connor. “Being a Western Hockey League broadcaster has long been a dream of mine, and I can't wait to get started."

O’Connor will begin calling play by play for all Cougars regular season and playoff games on September 24, when the Cougars open the season in Kamloops against the Blazers. All Cougars games are broadcast live on 99.3 The Drive.

Dan and his fiancée, Julie, are moving to Prince George in August and O’Connor’s first day in the Cougars office is August 22.

“We look forward to Dan and Julie arriving in PG,” added Cougars Vice President Brandi Brodsky. “Dan has a great voice and I know he'll do a fantastic job for us.”

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

Thursday, July 28, 2011

First-rounder Miller agrees to terms

Press Release

New York Rangers President and General Manager Glen Sather announced today that the club has agreed to terms with forward J.T. Miller.

Miller, 18, was selected by the Rangers with the 15th overall choice in the 2011 NHL Entry Draft on June 24. The East Palestine, Ohio native led Team USA in scoring with 13 points in six tournament contests en route to capturing the gold medal at the 2011 IIHF U-18 World Junior Championship in Germany. He tied for third among all tournament skaters in points, fourth in assists (nine), sixth in goals (four), and seventh with a plus-eight rating.

Miller was selected by tournament coaches as Team USA’s top player during the elite tournament after leading Team USA in points and assists, and finishing second on the team in goals and plus/minus rating.

J.T. Miller, who spent last season with the U.S. Under-18 team, will take part in the upcoming 2011 USA Hockey National Junior Evaluation Camp at Lake Placid, N.Y., where he will audition for the U.S. 2012 World Junior Championship team.
Last season, Miller skated in 48 games with the U.S. National Under-18 Team (USHL), registering 11 goals and 26 assists for 37 points, along with 80 penalty minutes. He established USHL career-highs in games played, assists, points, and penalty minutes, and ranked third on the team in points, and second in assists and penalty minutes.

Miller also established career-highs with two shorthanded goals and three game-winning goals, and notched a USA U-18 career best, two power play goals. His two shorthanded goals tied for the team lead, while his three game-winning goals tied for fourth on the club.

Internationally, Miller registered three goals and eight assists for 11 points in eight contests at the Four Nations Cup in Sundsvall, Sweden and the Five Nations Tournament in Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic. He notched two goals and three assists for five points in four games at the 2010 Four Nations Cup from November 10-14.

In addition, Miller tallied six points (one goal, five assists) in four games at the 2011 Five Nations Tournament from February 7-13. He led all tournament skaters with five assists, and ranked seventh in scoring with six points.

The 6-1, 200-pounder has appeared in 95 career games over two seasons with the U.S. National Development Team (USHL), registering 26 goals and 42 assists for 68 points, along with 159 penalty minutes.

In 2009-10, Miller established USHL career-highs in goals (15) and power play goals (four), and finished with 31 points while skating in 46 games with the U.S. National Under-17 Team (USHL). He also helped lead Team USA to a first-place finish at the 2010 World Under-17 Hockey Challenge in Timmins, Ontario, tallying a team-high, five goals, and finishing second on the team in scoring with nine points during the tournament.

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

Avalanche Signs Landeskog, Siemens

Press Release

The Colorado Avalanche Hockey Club announced today that it has signed first-round draft choices Gabriel Landeskog and Duncan Siemens each to three-year, entry-level contracts.

“We are pleased to have both Gabriel and Duncan under contract,” said Avalanche General Manager/Executive Vice President Greg Sherman. “We look forward to them participating in their first training camp this fall.”

Landeskog, 18, was taken second overall in the 2011 NHL Entry Draft and became the Avalanche’s highest draft pick since the team moved to Colorado in 1995. The previous high draft pick came in 2009, when the club selected Matt Duchene with the third overall choice. Landeskog was the first player selected second overall in Avalanche/Nordiques history. The Avalanche/ Nordiques franchise drafted first overall three times, 1989 (Mats Sundin), 1990 (Owen Nolan) and 1991 (Eric Lindros).

Landeskog, a native of Stockholm, Sweden, captained the Kitchener Rangers (OHL) this past season, becoming the first European captain in the 48-year history of the Rangers franchise. He was named captain at the age of 17 on Oct. 24, 2010, becoming the youngest player in 30 years to be named captain of the Kitchener Rangers.

Despite an ankle injury shortening his season to just 53 games, Landeskog led Kitchener with 36 goals and finished third with 66 points (36g/30a). He finished second on Kitchener in plus/minus with a +27 rating. In the first round of the 2011 playoffs, Gabriel shared the team lead with six goals and ranked second with 10 points in the seven-game series loss to Plymouth.

Landeskog served as an alternate captain for Sweden at the 2011 IIHF World Junior Championship in Buffalo, but only played one game before being sidelined with a high ankle sprain. He competed for Sweden at the 2009 IIHF World Under-18 Championship, finishing second on the team with four goals in six games. Landeskog captained Sweden’s under-16, under-17, and under-18 teams.

Siemens, 17, was selected 11th overall in this year’s draft. The Edmonton, Alberta native appeared in all 72 games for the Saskatoon Blades (WHL) this past season, tallying 43 points (5g/38a) with a +40 plus/minus rating and 121 penalty minutes. Only Avalanche prospect Stefan Elliott (81) had more points among Blades defensemen. Siemens went on to collect four points (1g/3a) in 10 playoff games.

Siemens appeared in 57 regular season games for Saskatoon as a 16-year-old in 2009-10, recording 20 points (3g/17a) and 87 PIM. He also helped Canada to gold at the 2010 Under-18 Ivan Hlinka Memorial with a goal and two assists in five games.


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

STORM ACQUIRE DEFENSEMAN FROM SIOUX CITY

Press Release

KEARNEY, Neb. – The Tri-City Storm have acquired defenseman Greg Johnson from the Sioux City Musketeers for a conditional draft pick in the 2012 USHL Entry Draft.

Storm General Manager and Head Coach Drew Schoneck made the announcement Thursday afternoon.

“We are excited to get Greg from Sioux City,” said Schoneck. “Adding a veteran defenseman solidifies the defensive unit, and we are eager to get him in the Storm lineup.”

Johnson, who turns 19 years old in a week, played in only 24 games last season for the Musketeers due to a couple of injuries. The 6-foot-3 and 185 pound rearguard grew three inches in height over the last year and was subjected to light workouts for most of last season while rehabbing upper body injuries.

After playing his midget major hockey for the Dallas Stars U18’s, the native of McKinney, Texas was drafted by Sioux City in the third round (36th overall) of the 2010 USHL Entry Draft. In two seasons with Dallas, he accumulated 27 points (12 goals, 15 assists) and 66 penalty minutes in 94 games in the Tier I league.

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

Broncos Sign Leth

Press Release

Swift Current Bronco General Manager and Head Coach, Mark Lamb announced that they have signed Cavin Leth to a WHL contract.

Leth was selected 39th overall by the Broncos in the 2011 WHL Bantam Draft. The 5'11", 167 pound forward played 32 games with the Lethbridge Val Matteoti Golden Hawks of the AMBHL where the Taber, AB product totaled 45 points through 28 goals and 17 assists while leading the team in PIM with 120.


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

BLAZERS TRADE UNDERWOOD TO PATS

Press Release

Kamloops, BC – The Kamloops Blazers General Manager, Craig Bonner, announced today that they have traded 19-year-old defenseman Brandon Underwood to the Regina Pats in exchange for a 4th round 2012 WHL Bantam draft pick. Underwood spent the past three seasons with the Blazers playing in 149 games.

“We have an influx of experienced WHL defensemen returning to our roster,” said General Manager, Craig Bonner. “We’d like to thank Brandon for his three years with the Blazers and wish him the best of luck in his future.”

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

Lakers re-sign trio, add talented local prospect

Press Release

FORT FRANCES, Ont. – Wayne Strachan, head coach and general manager of the Fort Frances Lakers announced Tuesday that the Superior International Junior Hockey League club has re-signed three more players from last season’s squad in goaltender Tyler Ampe, defenceman Marty McFadden and forward Henry Gutierrez while also adding a talented local prospect in forward Jordan Larson.

Ampe, a finalist for this past season’s top goaltender award in the SIJHL, was third among all netminders in the league in wins with 23.

The 19-year-old native of Hermantown, Minn., also posted a 3.09 goals-against average and a .907 save percentage, which were good enough for sixth and fourth respectively among all SIJHL goalkeepers.

“We are very pleased to have Tyler back in our line up,” offered Strachan on the re-signing.

“We hope he can build on the season he had last year and as a 20-year-old bring his success to help our team,” added the Fort Frances bench boss. “It brings relief to know we have one half of our goaltending tandem returning for the start of the season.”

As for McFadden, the 19-year-old saw action in 50 games in a Lakers uniform last season picking up nine points including three goals, which all came on the power play. The Carmen, Man., product also picked up 60 minutes in penalties.

“We feel Marty has a lot to show this season,” stated Strachan. “He is a player with an abundance of talent if he comes back ready to work hard and put the time in to make himself better. He is a player that could have a big season.”

Heading into his final year of junior hockey, Gutierrez, who hails from East Grand Forks, Minn., has picked up 40 points on 24 goals and 16 assists in his first two seasons skating for the Lakers.

“Henry returns after being our most valuable player in the playoffs,” said Strachan. “We are very excited to see what Henry will do this season after making a breakthrough in the playoffs offensively. He brings speed, good forechecking ability and is one of the top PK guys in the league.”

The local prospect in Larson returns home after spending the previous campaign skating for the Thunder Bay minor midget Kings program where he registered a team-leading 86 points on 43 goals and just as many assists.

In securing the 16-year-old Larson’s services, Strachan is pleased what the local product has to offer.

“Jordan is a young player that we feel once he adjusts to the play in Jr. A that he can contribute in our line up,” stated the three-time SIJHL coach of the year recipient.

“He brings a lot of offensive talent and is a player that reads the ice well and helps his line mates immensely. Jordan has put up numbers at every level he has played so far and we are excited to see what he can do for our team this season.”

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

Saints Signings

Press Release

The Winnipeg Saints are very excited to announce that they have signed several prospects so far this off-season as the team continues to build towards the start of the 2011/12 MJHL season.

The Saints have signed 1993 forward Michael Gorrie, 1994 forward Patrick D'Amico, 1994 forward Corey Petrash, 1993 defenceman Sean Collins and 1993 defenceman Curtis Houlden so far this off-season.

Gorrie will enter the MJHL as an 18 year old rookie after spending last season with the Winnipeg Wild (Manitoba AAA Midget Hockey League). The Winnipeg, MB native is 6' and 173 lbs and registered 8 goals and 13 assists for 21 points to go along with 30 penalty minutes in 32 games last season. Gorrie plays with a lot of intensity and competes hard every game.

The 17 year old D'Amico was acquired from the Winnipeg Blues prior to the 2010/11 season and spent last season with the Winnipeg Wild. D'Amico was selected by the Blues in the 3rd round of the 2009 MJHL Bantam Draft. The 6', 189 lb Winnipeg, MB native scored 17 goals and added 25 assists for 42 points. D'Amico also registered 45 penalty minutes in 43 games. He also suited up in 2 games with the Saints last season, picking up an assist.

A 2010/11 Telus Cup National Midget Champion will be suiting up for the Saints next season as 17 year old Corey Petrash will be joining the organization. Petrash finished tied for 13th in Manitoba AAA Midget Hockey League scoring with 25 goals and 20 assists for 45 points in 30 games. Petrash was selected in the 6th round by the Steinbach Pistons in the 2009 MJHL Bantam Draft and was later acquired by the Saints via trade.

Another Telus Cup National Midget Champion will be suiting up with the Saints this season as 18 year old defenceman Sean Collins will be joining the club. The Winnipeg, MB native is very mature and will strengthen the Saints backend immediately. The 5'10, 178lb defenceman was selected by the Saints in the 5th round of the 2008 MJHL Bantam Draft. Collins registered 9 goals and 20 assists along with 68 penalty minutes in 43 regular season games last year.

Curtis Houlden will join the Saints as an 18 year old for the upcoming MJHL season. The College Jeanne-Sauvé graduate and former defenceman with the hockey program is coming off an impressive season. He helped lead CJS to a 4th place finish during the regular season before a long play-off run. The intimidating team captain registered 8 goals and 12 assists along with 52 penalty minutes in 22 games last season.

The Saints are excited to announce these signings and look forward to helping with their growth and development.

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

DIEBOLD HEADS TO RENSSELAER A YEAR EARLY

Press Release

KEARNEY, Neb. – After looking to stay in the USHL for one more season, Tri-City Storm goaltender Scott Diebold has decided to leave the team to go to Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute this fall.

Rensselaer had a prior goalie commitment fall through a month ago and needed to fill the backup position on their team. They decided to take the native of Cheektowaga, NY this season instead of waiting a year, which was originally the plan in April when Diebold committed.

“We are happy to see Scotty get the opportunity to go to RPI sooner than later, as this is what our league is about,” said Head Coach/General Manager Drew Schoneck. “We wish nothing but the best for him in the future as an Engineer and his career following college as well.”

Diebold, who went 10-16-3 in his only season with the Storm, including four shutouts in 35 games, posted a 2.75 goals-against average and .913 save percentage.

Rensselaer is a NCAA Division I college hockey program located in Troy, NY and competes in the ECAC hockey conference with the likes of Cornell, Dartmouth, Harvard, Princeton, and Yale.

The 18-year old, who is 6-foot-1 and 145 pounds, was drafted in the 2010 USHL Entry Draft with the 278th overall pick (19th round) by the Storm.

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

Wednesday, July 27, 2011

ROCKETS TO HOST 2012 CHL TOP PROSPECT GAME

Press Release

Toronto, ON – The Canadian Hockey League in association with the Western Hockey League, the Kelowna Rockets Hockey Club, and Home Hardware Stores Limited, today announced that the 2012 Home Hardware CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game will be held at Prospera Place in Kelowna, British Columbia, home of the WHL’s Kelowna Rockets on Wednesday February 1, 2012.

“The Canadian Hockey League is very excited to bring the 2012 Home Hardware CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game to Kelowna,” said CHL President David Branch. “This event is highly anticipated by our players who have the opportunity to showcase their skills for Kelowna Rockets’ fans and before the eyes of all 30 NHL teams in attendance and CHL fans nationwide watching live on Rogers Sportsnet and RDS.”

The 2012 Home Hardware CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game will mark the 17th annual showcase of the CHL’s top-40 NHL draft eligible players featuring talent from the Western Hockey League, Ontario Hockey League, and Quebec Major Junior Hockey League. The two-day event also features an exciting skills competition and three-on-three challenge taking place on Tuesday January 31, 2012.

“On behalf of more than 1,080 Home Hardware Dealers across Canada, we look forward to heading west to the Okanagan Valley for the 2012 Home Hardware CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game,” said Paul Straus, President and CEO of Home Hardware Stores Limited. “As title partner of this event for 13 straight years we continue to enjoy watching these players bring excitement to hockey fans across the country as they prepare for careers in the NHL.”

This marks the second time the event will be held in British Columbia following 2005 when it was played in Vancouver. It is also the sixth time it will be hosted in Western Canada and the first since 2008 when it was played in Edmonton, AB.

“The Kelowna Rockets are thrilled to host the 2012 Home Hardware CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game at Prospera Place,” said Rockets President and General Manager Bruce Hamilton. “This event provides our fans the chance to see the next wave of NHL talent from across the CHL while we have the opportunity to showcase our community to the hundreds of NHL personnel in attendance.”

The Rockets have had four players participate in this event in the last four seasons including 2008 first round picks Tyler Myers of the Buffalo Sabres selected fourth overall, and Luke Schenn of the Toronto Maple Leafs chosen one pick later at fifth overall. 2010 WHL Defenceman of the Year Tyson Barrie also competed in the 2009 event in Oshawa, ON, before being selected in the third round by the Colorado Avalanche. Most recently, Shane McColgan participated last season in Toronto, ON, before being selected in the fifth round by the New York Rangers. Notable Rockets graduate and Olympic Gold Medalist Shea Weber of the Nashville Predators also competed in the 2003 event held in Kitchener, ON, before being selected in the second round of the 2003 NHL Entry Draft.

Since the event was first introduced in 1996 the game has featured 10 players that were selected with the first overall pick in the NHL Entry Draft including Chris Phillips, Joe Thornton, Vincent Lecavalier, Rick Nash, Marc-Andre Fleury, Patrick Kane, Steven Stamkos, John Tavares, Taylor Hall, and Ryan Nugent-Hopkins who was named Player of the Game for Team Orr following a 7-1 win over Team Cherry at the 2011 event in Toronto before being selected first overall by the Edmonton Oilers in June.

Nugent-Hopkins was one of 19 CHL players from the 2011 Home Hardware CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game that were selected among the record 21 CHL players chosen in the first round of the 2011 NHL Entry Draft along with Jonathan Huberdeau of the Saint John Sea Dogs who was selected third overall, and Ryan Strome of the Niagara IceDogs who was selected fifth overall..

Associate sponsors for the event include Bank of Montreal, Subway, and CCM. The game will be broadcast nationally by Rogers Sportsnet and RDS.

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

Connor Murphy Signs With Sting

Press Release

Sarnia, ON – Sarnia Sting Head Coach and General Manager Jacques Beaulieu announced today that the hockey club has signed defenceman Connor Murphy to an OHL Contract and Education Package.

“This is a very special day for the Sarnia Sting organization. To be able to recruit a player of Connor’s stature to commit to our program and choose to sign a OHL Contract and Scholarship package speaks volumes for the direction we are headed.” commented Jacques Beaulieu.

Murphy was the 1st round pick (20th overall) at the 2011 NHL Entry Draft this past June in Minneapolis.

Originally the Sting’s 15th round pick in the 2009 OHL Priority Selection. A native of Dublin, Ohio Murphy played last season with the US-18 team playing out of the USHL Murphy was limited to just 14 games however he would cap the season off in a big way helping lead the US to the Gold Medal at the IIHF World Under-18 Championships.

In the tournament that featured current Sting players Brett Ritchie (Canada) and Nail Yakupov (Russia) it was Murphy and his American teammates who would claim gold and in fact it was Murphy who would be the hero scoring the Overtime Game-Winner in the gold medal game versus Sweden.

Beaulieu adds, “This was a very tough decision for Connor and his family (parents Gord and Nicole). We appreciate the due diligence that was done by the Murphy family and we are thrilled they have chosen to further Connor’s hockey career with the Sarnia Sting and playing in the Ontario Hockey League. Connor will step in right away and be a big part of our hockey club. He certainly proved himself at the World Under-18 Championships to be a big game player and we can’t wait to see him in a Sting jersey next season.”

Connor comes from a strong blood line and will actually be a 2nd generation OHL player as his father Gord was a member of the Oshawa Generals prior to embarking on a very successful 14-year NHL career.

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

Rangers Sign Goaltender John Gibson

Press Release

Kitchener Rangers Head Coach and General Manager Steve Spott has announced that the team has signed netminder John Gibson to an Ontario Hockey League contract.

Gibson spent the 2010-11 regular season with USA’s Under-18 team of the United States Hockey League (USHL). He appeared in 17 games and picked up nine wins with a goals against average (GAA) of 2.38 and a save percentage (SV%) of .926.

Gibson was also the starting goaltender for the Gold medal winning Team USA at the 2011 IIHF World U-18 Championship held in Germany this past April. He won all six of his starts and had a 2.34 GAA and a .926 SV%. Due to his performance he was awarded Best Goaltender of the tournament.

He was selected in the 2nd round (39th overall) of the 2011 National Hockey League Draft by Anaheim.

Rangers Head Scout Murray Hiebert said, “John plays with confidence and has the unique ability to control his rebounds. He has a pedigree of success. His combination of size and athleticism allow him to be a great prospect for the Anaheim Ducks and we look forward to having John with us in Kitchener.”

Gibson was originally chosen by the Rangers in the 11th round of the 2009 Ontario Hockey League Priority Selection.

Rangers training camp opens on Wednesday, August 31, 2011 at the Kitchener Memorial Auditorium.

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

Timberwolves hire McDonald

Press Release

The Miramichi Timberwolves announced on Wednesday that Robert McDonald has been hired as Head Coach and Director of Player Personnel for the hockey club.

McDonald, a resident of Rexton, New Brunswick, had his most recent coaching position as Head Coach of the Miramichi Rivermen of the NB/PEI Major Midget league.

"The Timberwolves feel that McDonald will bring a renewed sense of energy and development to the organization", commented Timberwolves Chair Hockey Operations Doug Cooling. "His vast hockey background includes Atlantic Canada Scout for the Halifax Mooseheads, Instructor at the University of New Brunswick development camps and numerous years of coaching at all levels of minor hockey that will benefit the hockey club as they move forward in the coming years."

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

Rolston named head coach of Amerks

Press Release

Buffalo Sabres general manager Darcy Regier announced today that Ron Rolston has been named head coach of the Rochester Americans, the American Hockey League affiliate of the Sabres.

Rolston becomes the 29th head coach in Amerks franchise history.

“We are very excited for Ron to join the organization as head coach of the Amerks,” said Regier. “He has achieved tremendous success with USA Hockey’s development program and he fits our vision for how we want to develop players at the American Hockey League level. Ron is a proven winner and a terrific teacher and we look forward to having him lead the Amerks going forward.”

“I am both excited and honored to join an organization with as storied a tradition as the Rochester Americans,” Rolston said. “The opportunity to work within the Sabres organization, and to develop players at the game’s highest level, is an opportunity that I am committed to and embrace.”

Rolston joins the organization after spending the previous seven seasons as a head coach with USA Hockey’s National Team Development Program (NTDP), where he led the U.S. Under-18 team to three gold medals and a silver medal in four stints as head coach at the International Ice Hockey Federation World Under-18 Championship, including the 2011 tournament in Germany.

During the 2010-11 season, Rolston also led Team USA to titles in the 2011 Five Nations Tournament and in the 2010 Four Nations Cup. In addition, Rolston's U.S. National Under-18 Team posted a 12-9-1-2 (W-L-OTL-SOL) record in United States Hockey League play in 2010-11, helping the NTDP reach the USHL postseason for the first time. In June, he received the 2011 Bob Johnson Award from USA Hockey, which recognizes excellence in international competition during a season.

The longest-tenured and most decorated head coach in NTDP history, Rolston guided his teams to five medals and multiple tournament championships in international competition. He is the only coach in U.S. history to win three gold medals in the Under-18 World Championship (2005, 2009, 2011). His team also captured a silver medal in the 2007 Under-18 World Championship. Rolston’s teams never missed a championship game in either of the two major NTDP tournaments – the IIHF World Under-18 Championship and the World Under-17 Hockey Challenge.

The 44-year-old Rolston joined USA Hockey after serving as an assistant coach at four different NCAA Division I hockey programs between 1990 and 2004, winning national championships in 1992 and 1994 with Lake Superior State University.

Rolston was an assistant coach at Boston College from 2002-04 and also served as the top assistant at Harvard University from 1999-2002 and as an assistant coach at Clarkson University (1996-99) and Lake Superior State University (1990-95).

In addition to winning two national titles at Lake Superior State, Rolston also helped guide the team to three straight appearances in the NCAA national championship game and four CCHA tournament titles in his five-year stint. He was elevated to associate head coach for the Lakers in 1994. Rolston’s younger brother, 16-year NHL veteran Brian Rolston, was a member of the 1992 and ’93 squads that Ron helped coach.

Rolston achieved success with the U.S. National Under-17 team during the 2009-10 campaign, by leading the squad to its first World Under-17 Hockey Challenge title since 2002. He had previously led the Under-17 Team to two second-place finishes (2006, 2008) at the tournament.

In 2008-09, Rolston led the U.S. National Under-18 Team to first-place finishes at both the 2008 Men’s Under-18 Four Nations Cup in Lake Placid, N.Y., and 2009 Under-18 Five Nations Tournament in Sweden. Team USA finished with a 15-1-0-1 record against international opponents and a 13-13-1 mark against NCAA opponents. The 13 wins against college foes marked an all-time high for an Under-18 team in a single season.

In addition to coaching at the Under-18 and Under-17 levels, Rolston also served as head coach for the U.S. National Junior Team on two occasions. In 2007, he led Team USA to the bronze medal at the IIHF World Junior Championship in Sweden. He was also behind the bench during the 2009 IIHF World Junior Championship in Ottawa.

A native of Fenton, Mich., Rolston attended Michigan Tech University, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in business management and was a three-year hockey letterman with the Huskies (1986-89), serving as an alternate captain during his senior season. Rolston was the co-recipient of the Norbert Matovich Memorial Award as Michigan Tech’s most outstanding freshman in 1986-87.

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

WINDSOR, ONT., TO HOST 2012 WORLD UNDER-17 HOCKEY CHALLENGE

Press Release

CALGARY, Alta. – Hockey Canada, in partnership with the Ontario Hockey Federation, announced Wednesday that Windsor, Ont., will host the 2012 World Under-17 Hockey Challenge from December 29, 2011 to January 4, 2012. This will mark the sixth time in the 26-year history of the tournament that it will be held in Ontario.

The 2012 World Under-17 Hockey Challenge will follow the same format as previous years – five Canadian entries (Atlantic, Ontario, Pacific, Quebec, West) will be joined by five international teams, with two groups of five teams. The top two teams from each group will advance to the semifinals, while the remaining three teams from each group will cross over for placement games.

The 27-game tournament will be centered out of the WFCU Centre, home of the OHL’s Windsor Spitfires, but will feature games in partner venues. The tournament host committee is currently working with communities in the Windsor area to determine which will host satellite games. The Windsor region has successfully hosted a number of hockey events, including the CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game, OHL All-Star Game and CHL Subway Super Series.

Ticket information for the 2012 World Under-17 Hockey Challenge will be released later in the summer.

“The World Under-17 Hockey Challenge, as the first step of the Program of Excellence, is one of Hockey Canada’s most important events,” says Bob Nicholson, president and CEO of Hockey Canada. “We have no doubt Windsor will do a first-class job in hosting the World Under-17 Hockey Challenge in 2012.”

Hockey Canada originally awarded the 2012 World Under-17 Hockey Challenge, along with the 2011 tournament, to Winnipeg, Man., in October 2009. The 2011 tournament was a tremendous success, setting a record for single-game attendance with 12,060 at the MTS Centre for the gold medal game. However, with the recent awarding of an NHL franchise to the City of Winnipeg and True North Sports and Entertainment, Hockey Canada and True North mutually agreed for True North to put its focus on the return of the Jets and made the decision to relocate the 2012 World Under-17 Hockey Challenge.

Windsor joins Sudbury (1992), Kitchener (1998), Timmins (2000, 2010) and London (2008) as Ontario host cities for the World Under-17 Hockey Challenge.

Since the first World Under-17 Hockey Challenge (then known as the Quebec Esso Cup) in 1986, more than 1,100 NHL draft picks have played in the tournament, including nine of the last 11 first-overall selections (Ilya Kovalchuk, 2001; Rick Nash, 2002; Marc-André Fleury, 2003; Alexander Ovechkin, 2004; Erik Johnson, 2006; Patrick Kane, 2007; John Tavares, 2009; Taylor Hall, 2010; Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, 2011).

The 2012 World Under-17 Hockey Challenge will bring together the top players in the world born in 1995 or later. The regional under-17 program is the first step in Hockey Canada’s Program of Excellence. Many players who compete at the World Under-17 Hockey Challenge go on to represent Canada with the National Men’s Under-18 Team, National Junior Team and National Men’s Team.

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

KLIPPERS ACQUIRE GOALIE FROM OLDS

Press Release

The Kindersley Klippers have traded forward Justin Gerwing (1992-Saskatoon, SK) to the Olds Grizzlys of the Alberta Junior Hockey League for goaltender Riley Parker (1992-Abbotsford, BC)

Parker knows Saskatchewan well as he was the winning goaltender in the Telus Cup final when the Notre Dame Hounds defeated Mississauga. He bounced around the AJHL last year playing for Olds, Camrose and Okotoks winning 12 games with two of those wins being shutouts.

"Riley is a real solid goaltender that never had a real chance to get his feet under himself last season due to circumstances that were out of his control. We feel that the potential is there for him to have an outstanding season and knowing the quality of the person that he is, we see no reason as to why he won't be able to achieve great success.” said Klippers Coach Rockie Zinger.

Gerwing played in just 30 games for the Klippers last season scoring four goals and adding one assist while collecting 72 penalty minutes.

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

Upper Midwest High School Elite League partners with NAHL

Press Release

FRISCO, TEXAS – The North American Hockey League (NAHL) is pleased to announce that eight teams from the Upper Midwest High School Elite League (UMHSEL) have been invited to and will compete in the 2011 NAHL Showcase, held September 14-18, at the Schwan Super Rink in Blaine, Minnesota. The eight teams from the Elite League will join 28 teams from the NAHL, eight teams from the NA3HL and 44 teams from the NAPHL to complete the five-day, 88-team showcase event.

“We recognize the benefits of this relationship for everyone and we are very excited to bring this partnership to reality,” said NAHL Commissioner and President Mark Frankenfeld. “With the Elite League joining our three other leagues under one roof it will just add to this incredible Showcase. It is a win-win for the thousands of players, scouts and fans that will be in attendance.”

The annual NAHL Showcase is widely considered one of the most well-attended, largest and heavily scouted hockey festivals in all of North America, and the addition of the Elite League further enhances the event’s reach and scope in the hockey landscape. “The NAHL has demonstrated that it can be a helpful next step in a hockey player’s development, and the Showcase has become a premier event that we are proud to be associated with,” said John Russo, Commissioner of the Elite League. “We’re very excited to combine our league schedule with the NAHL’s Showcase. This is a great event that will give coaches, scouts and general managers the opportunity to see hundreds of elite players in one venue.”

The partnership between the NAHL and the Elite League is a natural one since both see numerous players commit to NCAA programs each season. This past season, the NAHL had over 125 NCAA commitments, while the Elite League had over three dozen just from their eight teams. More than 50 Elite League alumni in the last three years have been selected in the NHL Entry Draft, and famous Elite League alumni currently playing in the NHL include: Sidney Crosby, Zach Parise, Jonathan Toews and Blake Wheeler.

At the Showcase, the Elite League will feature five teams from Minnesota, one North Dakota/Minnesota combo team, Wisconsin's top prep team and a Manitoba team. “The Elite League fills a role in what we believe is the natural progression of a hockey player: High School, Elite League, Juniors and College,” said Russo. Players in the Elite League are selected from high school rosters, with games played on weekends, allowing athletes to continue to compete in fall sports for their high schools. Teams compete in a 21-game regular season schedule, along with league playoffs.

The Elite League teams will play September 16-18.

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

Tuesday, July 26, 2011

Oil Kings Sign 2010 Draft Pick Cole Benson

Press Release

Edmonton, AB – Edmonton Oil Kings General Manager Bob Green announced today the team has signed 2010 Bantam Draft selection and Edmonton native Cole Benson to a standard Western Hockey League player contract.

Benson was selected by the Oil Kings 178th overall at the 2010 WHL Bantam Draft. The forward from Edmonton spent the 2010-11 season with the South Side Athletic Club's Midget AAA squad, helping the Boston Pizza Athletics to the North Division regular season championship.

The 16-year-old, listed at 5-foot-7 and 148 pounds, scored 12 goals and 20 assists for 32 points in 29 regular season games as a rookie with SSAC, and was selected as the top defensive forward in the Alberta Midget Hockey League. He scored 61 points in 33 regular season games the previous season in Bantam AAA with SSAC.

Benson also scored seven points in six games with Team Alberta at the 2011 Canada Winter Games, playing alongside fellow Oil Kings prospects Mason Geertsen and Nelson Gadoury.

"Cole was the top defensive forward in all of Midget AAA hockey in Alberta last year, so we know we're getting a solid two-way player," Green said. "He was impressive at the Canada Winter Games and he also brings excellent leadership qualities. We're very pleased to sign him."

Benson and the rest of the Oil Kings rookies will participate in Rookie Camp starting Thursday, August 25 with fitness testing at Body By Bennett and on-ice sessions at the Jubilee Rec Centre in Fort Saskatchewan. Main Camp will begin Saturday, August 27 with fitness testing and Monday, August 29 on-ice at the same locations.

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

PATS NAME CONACHER HEAD COACH

Press Release

Regina, SK – General Manager of the Regina Pats, Chad Lang announced today the Regina Pats have hired Pat Conacher as Head Coach. Pat has many years of professional hockey experience as both a player and coach. He recently served as an Assistant General Manager/Assistant Coach with the Chilliwack Bruins. Prior to his time in Chilliwack, Pat was the Head Coach of the Utah Grizzlies (AHL) and the San Antonio Rampage (AHL), Assistant Coach of the Phoenix Coyotes (NHL), Kelowna Rockets (WHL) and of the Canadian National Team.

Pat’s playing career spanned 17 seasons and was he originally drafted by the New York Rangers in the 4th round, 76th overall in the 1979 NHL Entry Draft. He played 521 total games in the NHL with the Rangers, Edmonton Oilers, New Jersey Devils, Los Angeles Kings and Calgary Flames finishing with 139 total points. Pat won the Stanley Cup with the Oilers in 1984 and made it to the finals again in 1993 with the Kings. His AHL career spanned 459 games finishing with 326 points. Prior to turning pro, his junior career was spent with the WHL’s Billings Bighorns and Saskatoon Blades.

“Pat’s 20 plus years of experience in hockey, and his reputation speaks for itself.” Regina Pats General Manager Chad Lang continues, “His experience and knowledge of the game will prove to be valuable assets for our organization. He is a quality person with strong communication skills. He has experience at the NHL, AHL and WHL level and has proven that he can work with young players. We are very pleased that our organization will benefit from his experience.”

Pats Head Coach, Pat Conacher, “I’m extremely excited to be part of such a storied franchise in the Regina Pats. I’m honoured to be working with the current and future talent the Pats possess and look forward to having success together both on and off the ice.”

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

HARRINGTON SIGNS WITH PENGUINS

Press Release

LONDON, ONTARIO: The London Knights are pleased to announce that defenseman Scott Harrington has signed a three-year entry-level contract with the Pittsburgh Penguins of the National Hockey League. A second-round draft pick and 54th overall selection at the 2011 NHL Entry Draft in June, Harrington attended the Penguins’ annual prospect development camp earlier this month.

A 1st round draft pick for the London Knights in the 2009 OHL draft, Harrington has appeared in 122 regular season games for the Knights and has a total of 7 goals and 29 assists with a plus-11 rating over his regular season OHL career.

Harrington will be in Edmonton and Ft. McMurray, Alberta on August 3rd-7th to participate in Canada’s National Junior Team Summer Development Camp with the hopes of making the 2012 Canadian World Junior Team. The Kingston, Ontario native will rejoin the London Knights for 2011 training camp at the end of August.

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

Rangers Sign 2011 Fifth Round Pick Sterk

Press Release

Kitchener Rangers Head Coach and General Manager Steve Spott has announced that the team has signed centre Josh Sterk to an Ontario Hockey League contract.

Sterk was selected in the fifth round of the 2011 Ontario Hockey League Priority Selection.

“I am grateful to be joining the organization. I look forward to playing with the team this coming fall,” said Sterk.

Sterk spent last season with the Mississauga Senators Minor Midget AAA where he tallied 20 goals and 19 assists in 37 games played.

“Josh combines his energetic style of play with hockey sense to give him the ability to control the tempo of the game.” Rangers Head Scout Murray Hiebert said. “Josh’s creativity with the puck should be a welcome addition to the Rangers line-up while providing our fans with a great deal of entertainment.”

Rangers training camp opens on Wednesday, August 31, 2011 at the Kitchener Memorial Auditorium.


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

Latour Signs with Generals

Press Release

Oshawa Generals Head Coach & General Manager Chris DePiero announced today that the team has signed Left Winger Bradley Latour to a standard OHL agreement.

Latour was selected by the Generals in the 4th round, 63rd overall in the 2011 OHL Priority Selection this past May. The 5-foot-11 forward enjoyed a solid season last year with the Barrie Colts Minor Midget Team where he scored 24 goals and 20 assists for 44 points while adding 36 penalty minutes in 42 games.

He also registered 1 goal and 3 assists for 4 points in 4 games at the OHL Cup in March.

“Bradley came in at orientation camp and worked very hard and made a strong impression on the organization,” said Generals Head Coach and General Manager Chris DePiero. “That combined with the strong season we saw from him in minor midget last season made this a logical next step.”

Latour also took part Team Ontario’s final Under-17 Provincial Camp in Thunder Bay, Ontario from July 6th through 10th.

“We are excited for Bradley to join the Generals and we believe he will be an important part of this team for years to come.”

Latour is the third Generals prospect to be signed from the 2011 OHL Priority Selection with Cole Cassels (1st round) and Ken Appleby (2nd round) having been signed previously.

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

2011-12 USHL Regular Season Schedule Announced

Press Release

The United States Hockey League announced today the 480-game schedule for the 2011-12 regular season.  The season will open on Friday, September 30th, 2011 and conclude on Saturday, April 14th, 2012.


The scheduling process was the collective effort from each of the 16 USHL Member Clubs and League office personnel to develop a set of games that balanced the required games between conference opponents, availability of arenas, preferred team dates, and team travel demands.

“It was a different approach with the scheduling this year and the first time that senior management from each Member Club had direct involvement in the formation of the final product,” said USHL Commissioner Skip Prince.  “We believe a standard was set for collaboration on all levels during the process and thank each USHL organization for the time and effort spent to complete a schedule that is the outline for what will be an exciting 2011-12 season.”

The 16 USHL Member Clubs are split equally into two conferences – Eastern and Western – and each club plays a total of 60 games (30 home, 30 road).  One change has been made to the conference alignment as the defending Clark Cup champion Dubuque Fighting Saints will compete in the Eastern Conference and the Waterloo Black Hawks will now be part of the Western Conference.  The adjustment represents a true geographic split of the League after the 2010-11 season in which the two expansion clubs – Dubuque and Muskegon – were divided into separate conferences.  While USHL teams are split into conferences, the schedule was designed to include more games between opponents in close proximity to nurture geographic rivalries and to better manage team travel.

2011-12 USHL Conference Alignment
Western Conference                                       Eastern Conference
Des Moines Buccaneers                                  Cedar Rapids RoughRiders
Fargo Force                                                     Chicago Steel
Lincoln Stars                                                   Dubuque Fighting Saints
Omaha Lancers                                               Green Bay Gamblers
Sioux City Musketeers                                    Indiana Ice
Sioux Falls Stampede                                      Muskegon Lumberjacks
Tri-City Storm                                                 Team USA
Waterloo Black Hawks                                    Youngstown Phantoms
                                                
In keeping with the USHL’s commitment to education by minimizing lost classroom time for the student-athletes, while also providing a fan-friendly environment, 93% of the games during the 2011-12 season will be played on weekend or holiday dates.
A total of eight games take place during the opening weekend of the 2011-12 season (September 30th – October 2nd), highlighted by a rematch of the 2011 Clark Cup Final as the Dubuque Fighting Saints begin their title defense on Saturday, October 1st when they host the Green Bay Gamblers.  A trio of head coaches will also make their USHL regular season debuts during opening weekend as Brett Larson leads the Sioux City Musketeers to Kearney, Nebraska to take on the Tri-City Storm on Friday, September 30th, and the following evening sees Kyle Wallack take the Indiana Ice on the road to play the defending Anderson Cup champion Cedar Rapids RoughRiders and John Marks guides the Fargo Force in a road contest versus the Des Moines Buccaneers.
To help celebrate the fifth annual “Hockey Weekend Across America”, a total of 17 USHL games will be played during the weekend of February 17-19 in conjunction with USA Hockey’s initiative to celebrate the game and expose hockey to audiences nationwide.
2011-12 USHL Home Openers
Cedar Rapids RoughRiders – Saturday, October 1st vs. Indiana
Chicago Steel – Friday, October 7th vs. Youngstown
Des Moines Buccaneers – Saturday, October 1st vs. Fargo
Dubuque Fighting Saints – Saturday, October 1st vs. Green Bay
Fargo Force – Friday, October 14th vs. Muskegon
Green Bay Gamblers – Friday, October 7th vs. Des Moines
Indiana Ice – Saturday, October 15th vs. Team USA
Lincoln Stars – Friday, September 30th vs. Sioux Falls
Muskegon Lumberjacks – Saturday, October 22nd vs. Dubuque
Omaha Lancers – Friday, September 30th vs. Waterloo
Sioux City Musketeers – Saturday, October 8th vs. Fargo
Sioux Falls Stampede – Saturday, October 8th vs. Waterloo
Tri-City Storm – Friday, September 30th vs. Sioux City
Team USA – Friday, September 30th vs. Youngstown
Waterloo Black Hawks – Saturday, October 15th vs. Cedar Rapids
Youngstown Phantoms – Friday, October 14th vs. Des Moines
At the conclusion of the 480-game regular season schedule, the USHL Clark Cup Playoffs will again have 12 teams competing – the top six teams in each conference. 
A full USHL schedule is available online - 2011-12 USHL SCHEDULE

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

Winterhawks Announce Venue Schedule

Press Release
Download a PDF version of the full home schedule right here.
The Portland Winterhawks have finalized the venue schedule for the 2011-12 Western Hockey League season, with the team set to play 14 games at the Rose Garden and 22 at Veterans Memorial Coliseum.

The first of the Rose Garden games will be the home opener on Friday, September 23 against the Everett Silvertips, followed by their next two homes games on September 30 and October 1. The first game at Veterans Memorial Coliseum will be Saturday, October 8 against the Prince Albert Raiders.

However, the venue schedule could change as the season progresses. If the current NBA labor dispute extends into the scheduled start of basketball season, the Winterhawks could move games to the Rose Garden. Should that be the case, the Winterhawks will announce those changes as those games approach. (Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

NEW VOICE OF THE EVERETT SILVERTIPS

Press Release

The Silvertips announced Monday that Travis Huntington has accepted the position as the new Director of Broadcasting and Public Relations with the Everett Silvertips. Huntington, 28, spent the last four seasons with the Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs, where he announced over 300 regular season and playoff games, including the 2009 Central Hockey League All-Star Game, and was named as the CHL’s Broadcaster of the Year in 2010 and 2011.

“I’m thrilled to be joining a top-notch organization like the Everett Silvertips,” Huntington said. “The opportunity to work with quality people in one of the most respected franchises in the WHL is very exciting for me in my broadcasting career. I can’t wait to get started bringing Silvertips hockey to the loyal fans of Everett.”

A native of Platteville, Colorado, Huntington graduated from Colorado State University in 2005 before working in various broadcasting roles for Clear Channel Radio. In addition to his work on radio and television broadcasts for the Central Hockey League’s Colorado Eagles, he also contributed to Colorado State Rams football and basketball broadcasts before joining the Mudbugs in 2007. He becomes the third “Voice of the Silvertips” in club history, following Keith Gerhart (2003-07) and Jon Rosen (2007-11).

“We’re all looking forward to working with Travis to continue promoting Silvertips hockey,” Vice President / General Manager Doug Soetaert said. “He is a professional young broadcaster who came with strong recommendations and will continue the high standard of broadcasts for our fans to enjoy.”

Huntington and his wife Jessica, who were married in June, will arrive in Everett to join the Silvertips next week.

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

Goalie Commits to Penn State

Press Release

Perkasie, Pennsylvania native Eamon McAdam became the first Waterloo Black Hawk player to commit to Penn State’s new varsity hockey program, the Hawks announced Monday.

The Nittany Lions will begin playing NCAA Division I hockey in 2012-2013. McAdam will join the squad as a freshman in 2013-2014.

A goaltender who appeared for the Black Hawks off of the team’s affiliate list last winter, McAdam played in four USHL games. He was 2-2-0 for Waterloo, posting a 3.48 goals-against average and 88.8% save percentage. McAdam’s first league win came during a 20-save performance versus the Chicago Steel on January 15th. The 16-year-old also played for the Austin Bruins of the North American Hockey League in 2010-2011. Taking the ice nine times for the Bruins, McAdam was 2-4-2 with a 3.32 GAA and 90.4% save percentage.

“We were fortunate to have Eamon available to us at several key points last season,” said Black Hawks Head Coach P.K. O’Handley. “Having had that experience should prepare him to be a significant contributor to the Black Hawks this season.”

Last winter, 14 Black Hawks players had commitments to Division I universities. McAdam is the ninth player on Waterloo’s 2011-2012 preseason roster to choose a school.

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

STARS LOOKING FOR NEW COACH AND GM

Press Release

The Battlefords Stars are in need of a new head coach and general manager.

The team announced this morning that Ken Pearson is stepping down for family reasons. Pearson has two young children that reside in Manitoba and he has decided that the interests of his boys come first so he is resigning with hopes of finding another hockey job closer to home.

Pearson became the head coach of the hockey team in May of 2008.

Club spokesman Stew Demmans says a search for a replacement will begin immediately.

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

Monday, July 25, 2011

Jody Hull joins Team Canada U18 Team

Press Release

The Peterborough Petes are proud to announce that Assistant Coach Jody Hull has been named the Video Coordinator for Hockey Canada’s National Under 18 Team that will take part in the Memorial of Ivan Hlinka World Under 18 Championship in the Czech Republic and Slovakia from August 8th-13th.

Jody will begin working with Head Coach Steve Spott and his team of Assistant Coaches beginning July 27th in Calgary Alberta.

The Memorial of Ivan Hlinka World Under 18 Championship brings together the best Under 18 aged players. Many of whom will be top NHL Draft Picks in the 2012 NHL Entry Draft. Team Canada will be comprised of the best 1994 born players from the CHL and other leagues.

Team Canada will be put together following an Evaluation Camp in Calgary. Forty-two players, including Slater Koekkoek of the Peterborough Petes will be invited to the camp with 22 players being selected to join the team in the Czech Republic.

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

Spirit Sign First Round NHL Pick Jamie Oleksiak

Press Release

The Saginaw Spirit are today pleased to announce the signing of defenseman Jamie Oleksiak to an Ontario Hockey League contract. Oleksiak was selected in the first round, 14th overall, by the Dallas Stars in the 2011 NHL Entry Draft.

Spirit General Manager and Head Coach Todd Watson and his staff has been recruiting Oleksiak since the team selected him 138th overall in the 2008 OHL Priority Selection. “We have been after him for a couple of years, similar to how we were after Brandon Saad leading up to last season”, said Watson, “This is an important signing that helps to strengthen our defense and we look forward to him coming into camp, adjusting to the caliber of OHL hockey and contributing in the 2011-2012 season.”

The 6’7”, 240 pound native of Toronto, Ontario played for the NCAA’s Northeastern University Huskies last season, where he enjoyed a solid season recording 4 goals and 13 points in 38 games as a freshman. Prior to that, he spent time in the USHL with both the Chicago Steel, and Sioux Falls Stampede.

Oleksiak is a dual citizenship with the United States and Canada, and this season he decided to pass on an invitation to the US World Junior Team Camp to try out for the Canadian World Juniors Squad. The Canadian National Junior Team’s Summer Development Camp is scheduled for August 3rd to 7th in Edmonton, Alberta. Oleksiak has previous international experience representing the United States in the 2009 Ivan Hlinka Memorial Tournament.

Stated Spirit Assistant General Manager Jim Paliafito, “Adding an elite defenseman as Jamie is another step to our goal to win an OHL Championship. Oleksiak reminds me of a young Derian Hatcher.”

This past June Oleksiak was selected by the Dallas Stars in the first round of the 2011 National Hockey League Draft in Minnesota, going 14th overall. It is the second consecutive season the Stars have chosen a player with ties to the OHL in the opening round after taking Windsor Spitfires goaltender Jack Campbell with the 11th pick in 2010.

“Jamie’s unique size makes him a difficult player to play against. He has made great strides in the past year showing potential on both side of the puck,” said Tim Bernhardt, Director of Amateur Scouting for the Dallas Stars.

"With the addition of Jamie Oleksiak to the Spirit roster, Todd Watson and his staff have continued to build the foundation of a top contender,” stated Spirit President and Partner Craig Goslin, “The sports fans of the Great Lakes Bay Region are in for a really fun season with this year's Spirit team poised to do great things as we celebrate ten years of Spirit hockey. We invite our great fans to join us at The Dow Event Center when the season starts this September."

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

Graham Black is back!

Press Release

Moncton Wildcats head coach and Director of Hockey Operations, Danny Flynn is pleased to announce the appointment of Graham Black to the position of Athletic Therapist, effective August 1, 2011.



Graham Black is a Montreal native and completed his education and training at Concordia University. He comes with exceptional experience having spent two years in Victoriaville, five years with the Wildcats and one season with the New York Islanders in the NHL. Following his return to Moncton, Graham was involved in a partnership which established a multi functional private health clinic in Dieppe. Graham has continued his relationship with the Wildcats organization over the past number of years offering individual consultations, pre-game conditioning, and off-season strength and conditioning to both current and former players.



“We are extremely happy to welcome Graham back to the Wildcats on a full time basis. He has a wealth of knowledge, experience and will be a great addition to our staff.”

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

Carleton Place Canadians Bolster Line-Up

Press Release

Jason Clarke announced today the signing of forward Luke Kasteel of North Vancouver and also the acquisition of Michael Maciag, a defenceman from Detroit, MI. Kasteel, last year, played for the Dryden Ice Dogs of the Superior International Junior League, recording 3 goals and 7 assists with 13 PIMS in 26 games. Described as a solid, 2-way player, Kasteel is listed at 6' 3" and 195 lbs.

Maciag was acquired in a trade with the Buffalo Jr. Sabres on July 15th. He's a big, right-handed defenceman who will add some additional size to the blue line. Listed at 6'2", 195 lbs, he had 2 goals and 10 points in 37 games with Buffalo last year to go along with 59 PIMS.

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

Wray, McIlhargey amongst 2011 BC Hockey Hall of Fame inductee class

Press Release

Their contributions to the game of hockey come from different realms but the impact each made has been lasting and in front of a packed house at Penticton's South Okanagan Events Centre, Duncan Wray and Jack McIlhargey were recognized for their efforts.

Wray, owner since 1992 of the six-time national champion Vernon Vipers and Jack McIlhargey, a BCJHL defenceman with the New Westminster Royals in the 1970-71 season and later an NHLer with Vancouver, Philadelphia and Hartford, were inducted into the BC Hockey Hall of Fame along with the 1986 Penticton Knights, retired NHL official Rob Schick and former NHL superstar Joe Sakic.

Each inductee and club representatives from the Knights spoke to the crowd of nearly 700 including such hockey luminaries as Brian Burke, Pat Quinn, Stan Smyl, Harold Snespts, Andy Moog, Laurence Gilman, Darcy Rota and Bob Nicholson.

"People always ask, 'What is the secret to the success of the Vernon Vipers,'" said Wray, who also said a bit about each of the national champion clubs he's been part of. "I just hire the right people and let them do their jobs.

"It's a very humbling experience; I may not be the most talented person to be inducted, but I'm certainly the most appreciative."

McIlhargey played 393 games in the NHL, amassing over 1100 penalty minutes. He reminisced on more than 40 years in hockey.

"For me, it was a great experience to come back to Vancouver as a player, being from Burnaby; it was a thrill and something I'll always remember," he said. "In this business, it's the people you meet that make the difference."

Addressing Quinn and Burke directly, "Jack Mac" had some heartfelt and humourous words.

"I want to thank Pat Quinn. You coached me (in Philadelphia) and I learned so much from you. Burkie, you were my boss for a long time, I like working for you - I wouldn't mind doing it again."

Each inductee shared plenty of hockey tales and garnered big laughs from the audience. A silent and live auction, hosted by Okanagan resident and former MP Stockwell Day, were held as well to raise funds for the BC Hockey Hall of Fame.

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

Sunday, July 24, 2011

Mater Commits To Sting

Press Release

Sarnia, ON – Sarnia Sting Head Coach and General Manager Jacques Beaulieu announced today that the hockey club has signed forward Nathan Mater to an OHL Contract and Education Package.

Beaulieu is happy to have the Watford native signed.

“Nathan is a local player who has enjoyed success at every level he has played at coming through the ranks with the Lambton Sting AAA program and then last season with the Sarnia Legionnaires. We are very pleased that Nathan and his family have chosen to sign a OHL Contract and Education Package as he furthers his development as a player and as a student.”

Mater was the Sting’s 8th round selection in the 2010 OHL Priority Selection. He is a graduate of the Lambton Sting AAA program and last season played for the Sarnia Legionnaires. Also last season Mater was selected to participate in the 2011 GOJHL Western Conference All-Star Game.

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

OJHL'S TOP D-MAN COMMITS TO MERCYHURST

Press Release

Vaughan Vipers defenceman and the OJHL's Best Defenceman during the 2010-11 season, Anthony Mastrodicasa, has confirmed his commitment to join the Mercyhurst University Lakers of the NCAA Division I, Atlantic Hockey conference. Mastrodicasa has yet to decide whether he will attend Mercyhurst this upcoming season, or remain in the OJHL with the Vipers for one final season.

During his third season in the OJHL, the Vipers veteran rearguard had a career-best season, leading all defencemen with 17 goals and 53 points. The 19-year old native of Vaughan took charge of the Vipers power play all season, not only leading the club with 12 power play goals, but finishing fourth among all players in the league. Mastrodicasa's impressive season, in which he helped lead his club to a South Division regular season title, saw him earn South-East Conference 1st Team All-Star honours, as well as the OJHL's Best Defenceman Award.

Vipers' Head Coach Jason Fortier was asked how he felt about potentially losing Anthony so late in the summer, "I would be pleased to have Anthony back and see him flourish one more season but if he has the opportunity to play NCAA hockey next season, then I can only wish him all the best and glow with pride. We are in the business of helping young men chase their dreams and it feels good when you see them reaching their goals." Fortier was quick to add, "If Anthony does not return, then we have a big hole that we do not expect to fill. It is all part of the game and we were faced with the same situation last year with Ryan Sproul. We helped him make the right decision and supported him leaving for the OHL. We know how that turned out." (Ryan was a 2nd round pick of the Detroit Red Wings at the 2011 NHL Entry Draft).

Congratulations to Anthony and best of luck next season and beyond!

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

Flin Flon Unveils 2011/12 Recruits

Press Release

The Flin Flon Bombers and GM/Head Coach Mike Reagan are please to announce the signing of 9 prospects for the upcoming SJHL hockey season.

Reagan has inked four forwards, three defenceman and two goalies, who will attend camp this August to battle for spots on the roster.

“I’m very excited about this year’s group of recruits,” said Reagan, “Competition will be very good between the prospects and the 15 returning guys from last year.

Forwards

Cole McCaig – 5’9 – Brandon AAA Midget Wheat Kings

The speedy McCaig led his hometown Wheat Kings in scoring this past season and finished 5th overall in the Manitoba AAA Midget Hockey League netting 57 points (18g, 39a) in 44 games. McCaig has a great competitive level and finishes all checks, and is being compared to former Flin Flon Bomber Matt Lecours.

Landon Hiebert – 5’9 – Red Deer AAA Midget Rebels

Hiebert is an excellent skater who is responsible in both ends of the rink. He was a member of the Alberta AAA Midget Champion Rebels where he compiled 36 points (14g, 22a) in 34 games.

Greg Wiwcharuk – 5’8 – Leduc AAA Midget Oil Kings

Wiwcharuk, born in Snow Lake, is a small, but strong forward from the Alberta AAA Midget League Finalist Oil Kings, where he finished 6th in playoff scoring with 10 points (6g, 4a) in 15 games. He has a good skill set with all the tools to be a very good player.

Cole Conway – 6’1 – Calgary AAA Midget Buffaloes

A potential “Diamond In The Rough” Conway is an all round player. Like Hiebert, he takes care of both ends and should prove to be a good depth guy. Reagan believes Conway is a late bloomer who comes from one of the top AAA Midget programs in the country. Along with the height, Conway weights in at around 185 pounds and uses it wisely as he’s willing to play in the hard areas.

Defence

Dallen Hall – 6’1 – Red Deer AAA Midget Rebels

Another member of the Alberta League’s Champions, Hall had many options to choose where he would play his junior career, but was happy to choose Flin Flon and play in the historic Whitney Forum. Hall is a skilled d-man that has potential to put up strong numbers on the backend, and is a smart, smooth skating defender.

Brock Hounsell – 6’2 – Swift Current AAA Midget Legionnaires

Hounsell was sold on the Bombers when he was up in Flin Flon during the playoffs. The big defenceman will add size and muscle to the blueline. Hounsell competes hard at all times, finishes his checks and will be a tough guy to play against. He’s no slouch offensively either putting up 15 points (1g, 14a) in 36 games in a tough Saskatchewan Midget AAA Hockey League.

Justin Schoffer – 5’10 – Saskatoon AAA Midget Blazers

Schoffer was close to making the Bombers last season as a 17 year old but relished in his return to the Blazers. The good skating d-man likes to play physical and competes hard game in and game out. Schoffer has been listed with Flin Flon for three years.

Goal

Devin Buffalo – 6’0 – Leduc AAA Midget Oil Kings

A good technical goaltender with a never give up attitude, Buffalo lead his Oil Kings to the AMHL finals where he played more minutes (730) and made more saves (431) than any other goalie in the league. To put in perspective, league champion’s Red Deer’s goalie had 244 saves in 662 minutes of play.

Dylan Quinn – 5’11 – Junior B

Quinn suited up in Junior B last season in both BC and Alberta and is strongly compared to former Bomber goaltender PJ Musico in both his style and stance. Reagan believes if he can turn into something close to PJ, then the future looks bright for this BC goalie. Quinn is also cousins with former Flin Flon assistant coach Clayton Quinn.

The team will also have a few other prospects coming to camp, at the end of August. Reagan commented that they potentially could have a few more recruits signed before and they are looking to acquire some players that could round out the roster through the trade route.

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