Friday, November 30, 2012

Barnett named Coordinator of Player Personnel for NA3HL, NAPHL

Press Release

 The North American Hockey League (NAHL) in cooperation with the North American 3 Hockey League (NA3HL) and the North American Prospects Hockey League (NAPHL) have announced that Craig Barnett has been named the Coordinator of Player of Personnel for both the NA3HL and NAPHL.  Barnett will begin his duties immediately beginning with the NA3HL and NAPHL Showcase in Blaine, Minnesota, from November 30-December 3.  The primary purpose of the Coordinator of Player Personnel is to promote player advancement and to supply information to NAHL, NCAA and other junior and collegiate coaches.

“We are pleased to have Craig as a member of the staff in a new role that we feel is very important to the overall success of our leagues,” said NAHL Commissioner and President Mark Frankenfeld.  “This new role is an important piece to the recruiting puzzle.  With over 1,100 players actively playing in both the NA3HL and NAPHL, we felt it was necessary to include someone on staff who coordinated all their information and continued to build and forge the relationships that opened up opportunities for these players to advance to the next stages of their careers, be it collegiate or junior.”

As the Coordinator of Player Personnel, Barnett’s main responsibilities will be streamline player information to assist in the advancement of all NA3HL and NAPHL players by supplying junior and college coaches with the most up-to-date information possible that is provided by the players.   His main tasks are to promote a player profile of each player, organize scouting data, develop line charts and channel the information up to NAHL and NCAA coaches.

“This initiative is a natural one to take based on the relationship that exists between the NAHL, NA3HL and NAPHL.  We want to maximize the resources that are already in place to help players advance to the next level of hockey,” said Barnett.  “My role is to be the main liaison in actively promoting and marketing the players, utilizing the technology that exists in showcasing the players and improving on the communication between their current coaches and those of the NAHL and NCAA.”

Barnett, who works for Cardinal Sports Management, which is the official Recruiting Firm of the NAHL, has a long and distinguished record in hockey as a player, coach, collegiate athletic director and now recruiter.  Barnett played his collegiate hockey at Plattsburgh State, where he was part of an NCAA Division III National Championship team.  He played professionally in the New York Rangers minor league system in the AHL, ECHL and IHL.  Following his playing career, Barnett turned next to coaching.  He began as an assistant coach with both Mercyhurst and Kent State and later began his head coaching career with the University of Findlay.  Barnett then later became the Director of Athletics at both Becker College and Mercyhurst College before landing in his current role with Cardinal.


 (Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)

Top OHL prospects hit the ice in Barrie

Press Release

The great ones – like Steven Stamkos played in the OMHA – and the next ones like Barrie’s Tyler MacArthur and Kingston’s Josh Leblanc will take to the ice at the OMHA Showcase in Barrie December 1 and 2.

Thirteen teams from the Eastern [ETA] minor midget AAAs will battle head-to-head in a series of games in front of pro, junior and university scouts at Holly Community Centre. The event is a preview of the top picks in next spring’s Ontario Hockey League’s Priority Selection Draft and, in a few short years, the National Hockey League draft. The OMHA is a premier development league with recent NHL grads including Stamkos, Matt Duchene, Corey Perry and Cody Hodgson.

A list of players to watch, including Tyler MacArthur and  Josh Leblanc is listed below with comments from OHL Central Scouting. The Showcase rosters, schedule and television schedule on Rogers TV – Barrie are available by visiting www.omha.net.

“When the players know scouts are watching and can step up their play it’s an indication as they get older they can deal with the pressures of hockey and move on,” said Dave Reid, former General Manager of the OHL’s Peterborough Petes. “They all know a good show will go a long way.”

The participating clubs are the Central Ontario Wolves, Peterborough Minor Petes, Quinte Red Devils, Kingston Junior Frontenacs, Barrie Junior Colts, Ajax-Pickering Raiders, Markham Waxers, Clarington Toros, North Central Predators, South Central Coyotes, Oshawa Generals, Whitby Wildcats, York Simcoe Express and the North Ontario Hockey Association All-Stars.

The event is projected to draw 1,000 people and provide a boost to the Barrie economy.

“Profiling our AAA athletes at the Showcase events is an excellent way for scouts and universities to see all players,” said OMHA President Joyce Junker. “The OMHA is proud of every player and wants to do the best job possible to support them and their families by hosting such events as this.”

The OMHA AAA Showcase is also used to promote a path to post-secondary education for the athletes. Many OMHA graduates move on to attend and play at Ontario universities.

“The Ontario Hockey League offers student-athletes the best of both worlds when it comes to on ice development and opportunities in education,” said OHL Commissioner David Branch. “We look forward to the opportunity to meet so many of the OMHA’s great student-athletes and future stars of the OHL at these events.”

The OUA and OHL will host information sessions at the Showcase to explain the pathways to junior hockey and university life. OUA hockey is filled with OMHA grads, many who enjoyed OHL careers including David Searle [Peterborough], Tony Rizzi, Anthony and Kaine Geldart [Kingston] and Steve Ferry [Richmond Hill].

"Ontario University Athletics has a shared interest with the Ontario Hockey League in helping prepare their student-athletes for life after their junior playing careers. We hope that the OMHA AAA Showcase is the first of many opportunities for hockey fans to celebrate the accomplishments of exceptional student-athletes in both leagues," said OUA Executive Director Ward Dilse.

Some of the games will be broadcast on Rogers TV – Barrie, with a schedule available at www.omha.net.
The Showcase sponsors include the OHL, OUA, Barrie Colts, the City of Barrie, Under Armour, Rogers TV-Barrie, Pro Hockey Life, Forse Hockey, Rinknet Scouting Software, Shoeless Joe’s Restaurant, Garner’s Source for Sports, Panera Bread, and Pixels Photography.

Players to watch
Here are some top players to watch in the tournament, with quotes about each from Darrell Woodley, Director of Central Scouting for the OHL.

Ajax Pickering Raiders, Dallas Baird, Centre.  “Dallas is a big centre with lots of potential.  He is at his best when he is driving the net and creating scoring chances and using his solid frame to win battles for the puck.”
Barrie Colts, Tyler MacArthur, defenseman. “He is a big, solid defenseman with good mobility.  He likes to join the rush and create offense for his team when he can.  Runs power play and has a good shot from the point.”

Barrie Colts, Michael Holmes, defenseman.  “Michael is a very reliable defenseman with a very high hockey IQ.  He is used in all situations and excels on the defensive side of the puck, good all-round Dman.”
Central Ontario Wolves, Jake Bricknell, forward. “Jake is the type of that other teams don’t like to play against, he is very hard on the puck and wins most of his battles.  He is not afraid to go to the dirty areas and has the skill to capitalize on chances he gets.”

Central Ontario Wolves, Brady Baker, defenseman. “Brady is a smooth skating defenseman with very good mobility, he has the ability to skate the puck out of his own end, he makes a good first pass and he is not afraid to join the rush when needed.”

Clarington Toros, Evan Cormier, goalie. “Evan is a good sized goalie that takes up a lot of the net, He always keeps his team in the game and has the ability to steal games as well.  Evan is very technically sound with a good glove hand.”

Kingston Jr Frontenacs, Josh Leblanc, Centre. “Josh has great speed and is always using it to create offense and put pressure on the other team’s defense.  He competes hard shift in shift out and has a good skill set.”
Kingston Jr Frontenacs, Matthew Scott, defenseman. “Matthew is a tall lengthy defenseman with pretty good mobility, he is a very smart player and he is very rarely caught out of position.  He is very hard to beat 1 on 1 because he has such a good stick and he uses it all over the ice.”

Markham Waxers, Jonathan Ang, forward.  “Jonathan is an underage playing at the Minor Midget level.  He a very skilled player with good speed and vision and you notice him every time he is on the ice.  A name to watch for in the future.”

North Central Predators, Trayvon Henry, forward. “Trayvon is a tall, lengthy centre.  He is their best player night in night out, competes hard every shift and has a good skill set.”

Oshawa Generals, Ryan Heeps, forward.  “Ryan and is very responsible player in all 3 zones on the ice, he has a great understanding of all aspects of the game.  He also has pretty good skill which allows him to create offense for himself and his teammates.”

Peterborough Petes, Tiger Brennan, centre.  “Tiger competes hard game in game out.  You notice him because of his work ethic.  He is a team player and is used in most situations by his coaches.”
Quinte Red Devils, Brodie Butt, forward.  “Brodie is a competitive player that does whatever it takes to help his team win a game.  He is a good skater with a good skill set, which helps him create scoring chances for himself and his teammates.”

South Central Coyotes, Marcus Crawford, defenseman. “Marcus is smaller offensive minded defenseman that is always looking to create offense.  He has great vision and is able to find the open forward whether it’s on the power play or hitting them on a stretch pass for a breakaway.

Whitby Wildcats, Hayden McCool, centre. “Hayden has all the attributes to be a very good player at the next level and beyond; Good size, skates well and has a great shot.  When Hayden is on the top of his game he is one of the best players in this age group.”

Whitby Wildcats, Justin Lemcke, defenseman.  “Justin is one of the most physically intimidating players to play against in this league.  He has continued to develop since the beginning of the season and his coaching staff uses him in all situations.

York Simcoe Express, Graham Knott, forward. “Graham enjoys the physical side of the game, he uses his size to gain advantages in all 3 three zones.  He has a good skill set which allows him to capitalize on his chance or make a play to set up his teammates.”

York Simcoe Express, Tyler Boston, centre. “Tyler is the type of player that coaches love to have on their team.  He has a good understanding of the game and never takes a shift off.  He is a big part of his teams early success and is used in every situation.”

About the Ontario Minor Hockey Association
The Ontario Minor Hockey Association, founded in 1935, is the largest minor hockey association in the world and oversees a participant base of 300,000 consisting of players, coaches, trainers, officials, hockey volunteers and parents across the province. The OMHA has 246 active member minor hockey associations and annually coordinates 45 leagues and approximately 600 development clinics throughout Ontario.  For more information, visit www.omha.net.


 (Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)

Leafs' Cirtek to represent Austria at WJC

Press Release

The Laconia Leafs have announced that Austrian-born Phillip Cirtek will represent his country at the upcoming IIHF World Junior Championships, which will be contested from Dec. 9-15 in France.

Cirtek, a 1994-born forward from Klegenfurt, has three goals and an assist through 22 games with the Leafs this season.

“Philipp has been a great addition to our team,” Leafs head coach Joe Cardarelli said of the 6-foot-2, 194-pounder. “His hard work, on and off the ice, has paid off with his invitation to play for his country at the World Junior Championships.”

Austria will compete in the Division I Group A championships, along with Belarus, France, Denmark, Norway and Slovenia.

“The entire Leafs organization will be rooting for Phillip’s and Austria's success in France next month,” Cardarelli added.

 (Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)

Grizzlys Viveiros Invited to Play in World Junior Hockey Championships

Press Release

Olds Grizzlys defenceman Landan Viveiros will get to have the experience of a lifetime this December.  Landan has been invited to play for Team Austria at the 2013 IIHF U20 World Junior Hockey Championships Group B held in France on December 9-15, 2012.

Viveiros was born in Austria and lived there until the age of 16 when he decided to move to Canada and pursue his hockey career.  “There was an opportunity to play Midget AAA in Alberta and I wanted to give it a try and see how it was.” said the AJHL veteran.  So Landan packed his bags and flew overseas to suit up for the St. Albert Raiders Midget AAA program.  The following season, Landan tried-out for the St. Albert Steel (now Whitecourt Wolverines) of the Alberta Junior Hockey League and made the team.  The Olds Grizzlys seen potential in the young Austrian and picked him up in a trade this summer.

Viveiros and his Austrian teammates will be competing for Gold against Denmark, Belarus, Norway, Slovenia, and France in this year’s tournament.  The Group B Championships will host a round robin format where they will play every team once with the winner moving on to Group A for the World Junior Hockey Championships next year in Malmo, Sweden.  Landan has competed for his home country before winning the Gold Medal in the World U18 Junior Championships. “I think we have a pretty good chance at winning the Gold Medal this year.  We have a really good team.  Most of the team is comprised of the same players from the U18 team, just a few additions.”

But this tournament will be particularly special for Landan, who will get to play with his younger brother, Layne, who currently plays for the Portland Winterhawks of the Western Hockey League.  “I am really excited for the tournament.  I am looking forward to the experience and having the opportunity to play with my brother again.” said Viveiros.  Hockey runs deep in the Viveiros family.  Along with Landan and Layne, their father is currently the general manager for KAC, a professional team in Austria that competes in the Erste Bank EHL, and is also the head coach for the Austrian National Team.  “Both my parents will be able to come and watch.  It’s going to be great as they don’t get to watch me play very often.”

When asked about the difference between playing in his home country and Canada Landan said, “It’s great playing in Canada; it’s a lot of fun.  It’s different hockey because the ice is smaller and the game is more physical.  It’s a lot tougher here.  Hockey is a growing sport in Austria and has really caught on the past few years.  The atmosphere is a lot different.  It’s much like a soccer game – the fans go crazy.”  Other than Landan and his brother, the rest of his teammates play in junior leagues in Austria with a couple players who play pro in Sweden.

After his Junior career, Viveiros has aspirations to obtain a NCAA Division I scholarship and then continue to play professional hockey back in Europe.  Just like the development program in Canada, this tournament will be a stepping stone and one day Landan dreams of playing for the Austrian National Team.

“I am looking forward to the experience of playing against teams from across the world and gaining international hockey experience.  It’s going to be nice to see all the guys I used to play with and grew up with.  Playing with my brother is going to be very special.  I have not seen him in quite a few months.  I will be able to take back with me playing in pressure situations and just the experience as a whole.” said Landan.  “I am more excited than anything right now.  I’m sure I will be more nervous when Sunday comes around and I start thinking about it more.”

Head Coach Brett Hopfe said, “This is a great opportunity for Landan.  The Olds Grizzlys organization is extremely proud to have a player represented on this world stage.  We wish Landan nothing but the best and hopes he come back with a Gold Medal around his neck.”


(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)

Nanaimo Press Conference Friday

Press Release

Wednesday November 28th 2012 – The Nanaimo Clippers Jr. A Hockey Club will host a press conference on Friday, November 30th.

What: Announcement regarding current ownership group.
A unique opportunity to address Ken Wagner, Kelly Hrudey and Mike Vandekamp

When:
Friday November 30, 2012
11:30am (Local Time)

Where:
Nanaimo Clippers Office
Beban House
2290 Bowen Road
Nanaimo, BC

Who:
·         Ken Wagner, Nanaimo Clippers Owner, President, and Governor
·         Kelly Hrudey, Nanaimo Clippers Owner
·         Mike Vandekamp, Nanaimo Clippers Head Coach, General Manager
·         Graham Calder, WCC Chairman, Director of Business
·         Jen Kennedy, Director of Sales & Marketing

All participants will be available to the media immediately following the press conference, and for telephone interviews to media representatives not in attendance

Snacks and refreshments will be served.


(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)

Thursday, November 29, 2012

Statement From Winterhawks In Response To WHL

Press Release

Tonight the Western Hockey League released a statement indicating there were 54 violations over five years involving 14 players. The Winterhawks do not dispute these allegations, which are consistent with the statement the team made yesterday:

•       One player was provided flights for his family and a summer training program
•       Seven families were provided 2-4 flights per season over the course of five years
•       Two players were provided a one-week summer training session
•       Four captains over three years were provided cell phones

The WHL is counting each flight, training session and phone as an individual infraction, adding up to 54. The league’s findings are consistent with the team’s statement yesterday, and the Winterhawks are encouraging more transparency in this process.

(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)

League clarifies deadlines, penalties surrounding Dec. 1 roster cutoff

Press Release

With the Hockey Canada roster deadline on Saturday Dec. 1 potentially leading to a number of player transactions, the British Columbia Hockey League is clarifying its policy on trade reporting at deadline time.

For any transaction made after 11:59 p.m. PST on Friday, Nov. 30, BCHL team personnel are required to wait until 10 a.m. on Sunday, Dec. 2 to release details. Only after that time are they permitted to discuss transactions with media.

The absolute Dec. 1 deadline for transactions between separate leagues (i.e. BCHL to AJHL), is 6 p.m. Pacific. For moves made within the BCHL, the absolute deadline is 8 p.m. Pacific.

Teams not in compliance with this league regulation are subject to a fine.

Trade information will be also be posted on the BCHL website at 10 a.m. on Sunday, Dec. 2.

The Dec. 1 deadline reduces the number of player cards available to all Canadian Junior A hockey clubs to 25. As BCHL active rosters are capped at 22 players, each team would have a maximum of three cards to use to sign new players for the rest of the season. 


 (Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)

WHL STATEMENT REGARDING PORTLAND SANCTIONS

Press Release

CALGARY, AB. - The Western Hockey League has released the following statement to provide further clarification on the sanctions imposed yesterday on the Portland Winterhawks.

After the WHL became aware that the Portland Winterhawks had entered into an undisclosed player agreement which contravened WHL Regulations, the WHL commissioned international accounting firm PricewaterhouseCoopers to conduct an independent investigation to determine whether there were any additional benefits extended to players during the past five seasons.  The independent investigation identified 54 violations involving 14 players which have occurred over the past five seasons.

The violations all relate to providing players with benefits not permitted under WHL Regulations.  The violations include additional parent travel, off-season training and other benefits.  These additional benefits, which were not disclosed to the WHL, are strictly prohibited under WHL Regulations.

All WHL Clubs and General Managers are required to fully disclose to the WHL all benefits provided to players and to ensure their Club is fully aware of and in compliance with WHL Regulations at all times.
“We believe the sanctions are not excessive given the repeated and systemic nature of the violations,” stated WHL Commissioner Ron Robison.  “The independent investigation discovered an unprecedented number of violations.  It is the responsibility of each WHL Club and General Manager to be fully aware of the WHL Regulations and to be in compliance at all times.  These sanctions are necessary in order to protect the overall welfare and integrity of our League and to preserve a level playing field for all of our member Clubs and our players.”


 (Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)

Jacks Defenseman Commits to Penn State University

Press Release

The Muskegon Lumberjacks announced that defenseman Patrick Koudys has committed to play college hockey at Penn State University beginning next season.

Koudys is playing his first USHL season and has collected three assists, 34 penalty minutes, and a plus-five rating in 20 games for the Lumberjacks.  Prior to his time in Muskegon, the Smithville, Ontario native spent the last two seasons playing collegiately at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) where he totaled five points (2g, 3a) in 58 games at the school.  Following his freshman season, he was selected by the Washington Capitals in the fifth round (147th overall) of the 2011 NHL Draft.  The recently turned 20-year-old is one of 18 NHL Draft picks playing in the USHL this season.

“Penn State was the right choice for me because it was more than I expected when visiting the campus with the new state of the art facilities being built, and the coaching staff is dedicated to helping me develop my skills for the pro level,” said Koudys.  “Penn State has everything to offer both on and off the ice for me because it is close to home and the engineering program they offer is second to none.”

Six other current USHL players are committed to play hockey at Penn State following their USHL careers, including Koudy’s teammate Conor Garland on the Lumberjacks, Alec Marsh (Cedar Rapids RoughRiders), Zach Saar (Des Moines Buccaneers), Eric Scheid (Lincoln Stars), David Goodwin (Sioux City Musketeers), and Eamon McAdam (Waterloo Black Hawks).

Penn State is playing their first season as an NCAA Division I program and will join the newly Big Ten Conference for hockey next season.  A total of nine USHL alumni are on the Nittany Lions roster this year; Connor Varley (Des Moines Buccaneers), Mark Yanis (Muskegon Lumberjacks), Bryce Johnson (Omaha Lancers), Kenny Brooks (Tri-City Storm), Tommy Olczyk (Sioux City Musketeers), Casey Bailey (Omaha Lancers), Joseph Lordo (Sioux Falls Stampede), Max Gardiner (Dubuque Fighting Saints), Matt Skoff (Sioux City Musketeers).


(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)

Noah Henry commits to Union College

Press Release

Powell River, BCNovember 28, 2012 - The Kings are proud to announce that Noah Henry has committed to Union College’s Dutchmen hockey program for September 2014.

A native of Seattle, Washington, Noah is a recent addition to the Kings’ blue line but has easily taken to his role in the green and gold’s line-up.Wearing number 44 and born in ‘94, Noah has earned 4 points in 4 games with the Kings.  


Kings' assistant coach Chad Van Diemen is proud of Henry saying, "We are very excited for Noah.  He will be joining a long list of Kings’ alumni that have moved on to Union College to play for the Dutchmen. Noah had a great visit to the campus and he was very impressed with the whole trip.  Choosing a school is a very important decision and Noah did not take that lightly.

“It's been great getting to know Noah since he joined our team. He has a great character and has been a fabulous addition to our back end. Noah will be a great addition to the Union campus, both on the ice and in the classroom.”

Henry says he chose to commit to Union for a number of reasons. “Unionhas a great hockey program that is a well-recognized program having made the Frozen Four last season. In addition, the coaching staff is excellent and they think highly of me. Union College is also recognized for its academic excellence and that is really important to me as well.”

Noah hopes to pursue a degree in Engineering or Economics while attending Union College.

Schenectady, New York’s Dutchmen have a strong standing across the United States as one of the best college hockey programs in the country. Union currently is ranked 7thoverall by USA Today/USA Hockey Magazine poll. The Dutchmen are part of the Division I’s ECAC and where Kings’ alumni Kyle Bodie, Mat Bodie, and Daniel Carr have continued their post-Junior ‘A’ careers and found great success.

Fans can find more information about Henry’s future school and home by clicking here.

Congratulations Noah on this great achievement!


 (Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)

Vermont calls on Bradley

Press Release sent to the World of Junior Hockey

Wayne, NJ - The Jersey Hitmen are proud to announce that EJHL leading scorer, Brendan Bradley, has accepted a scholarship to play at the University of Vermont next season. The 1992, Richboro, PA native, is enjoying his first season with the Hitmen scoring at an alarming pace. Just 21 games into the season, Bradley has scored 6 goals and added 30 assists good for tops in the league. Bradley has also been honored twice as EJHL offensive player of the week this season.
 
"Brendan has been arguably our most consistent player all season," commented Hitmen head coach, Toby Harris. "He has only been off the score sheet 4 times this season in 21 games, and guess what, we lost all four games. He has been an offensive dynamo, he has scored 2 shorthanded goals, he has blocked shots on the PK and most importantly, he comes to work every day, without fail. Coach Sneddon and the Catamounts are getting a tremendous player and more importantly, a tremendous person. The Hitmen are very proud and excited for Brendan and family!"
 
Bradley becomes the 11th division one commitment from this seasons 2012 Hitmen roster.
 
"I am so excited to be going to UVM," said Brendan Bradley. "I have been playing hockey for a long time and my parents have supported my decisions the whole way. I can not thank them enough." Bradley went on to say, "it has been a long road from Philadelphia to Fresno and finally ending in New Jersey with the Hitmen. Playing for the Hitmen has been an amazing experience and one that I will never forget. From the time I first heard from coach Harris last summer to when I made my commitment last night to Vermont, everything that coach has said, has come true. He told me that I would be exposed to all the top eastern schools. He told me that I would be an integral part of this 'high powered' offensive core and he told me that he was going to work just as hard for me off the ice as I worked for him on the ice. I could not ask for anything more, and that is why I made the commitment to play for the Hitmen. Today I could not be happier with my decision."
 
"I would like to thank my teammates, my coaches, the Hitmen ownership (Bobby Reiss) and everyone that has helped me attain my childhood dream of playing division one college hockey. Most of all, I would like to thank my family for all their help, guidance and support, as I would not be here without them. I can not wait for next year, to head up to Burlington, and help UVM win a Hockey East championship, but before that, my goal is to take home the Dineen Cup with the Hitmen!"


 (Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)

REBELS ACQUIRE VASKO FROM ROCKETS

Press Release

The Kelowna Rockets have traded European import player Filip Vasko to the Red Deer Rebels.
Vasko, a native of Humenne, Slovakia, was in his second season with the Rockets and had three goals and seven assists in 19 games played this season.

In return for Vasko, the Rockets acquire a conditional sixth round bantam draft selection in 2013.
Vasko joined the Rockets for the 2011-12 WHL season and had 12 assists in 51 games last year as a rookie.

 (Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)

Michael Cuddemi signs with the Jr. Canadiens

Press Release

The Toronto Jr. Canadiens are pleased to announce the signing of 5’10”, 180 pound rookie forward Michael Cudemmi.   A native of Concord, Ontario, Cuddemi signs with the Jr. Canadiens as a free agent having recently played for the Mississauga Chargers where he accumilated 4 assists in 13 games so far this season.   
"Cuddemi will be a positive addition to the Jr. Canadiens team” commented Head Coach Mario Cicchillo, “He gives us more depth up front and he will definately complement our group of young forwards.”


 (Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)

Jimmy Kim Signs Pro Contract in Korea

Press Release

The Jr. Canadiens coaches, players and management congratulate Jimmy Kim on signing his first professional contract in his native Korea.  "This is tremendous acheivement" said JR. Canadiens General Manager, Frank Morris "and on behalf of all of us, we wish him continued success as he begins his professional career."
Kim played in 26 games for the Jr. Canadiens this season accumilating 19 points on 6 goals and 13 assists.
"Kimmer will be missed" said coach Cicchillo,  " he has worked very hard to get this opportunity and I am truly happy for him." Assitant coach Trevor Bremner commented " I am certain that Kimmer will be a positive addition to his new team and we wish him all the best"


 (Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)

Clippers acquire Grant

Press Release

Nanaimo BCThe Nanaimo Clippers Acquire Matthew Grant from the Cowichan Valley Capitals


The Nanaimo Clippers have acquired (F) (93) Matthew Grant from the Cowichan Valley Capitals in exchange for the playing rights of (F) (94) Luke Gordon and (F)(94) Jesse Neher. The 6”3 207lb Grant hails from Ladysmith BC has 6 goals, 15 assists in 20 games.

The Nanaimo Clippers would like welcome Matthew and his family to the Clipper family and would like to thank Luke and Jesse for their contributions and wish them all the best.


(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)

Cents Acquire Sam Johnson & futures from Brooks Bandits for Brandon Bruce

Press Release

The Merritt Centennials are pleased to announce the acquisition of forward Sam Johnson (94) and future considerations from the Brooks Bandits of the AJHL in exchange for forward Brandon Bruce (93).

Johnson, who's from Okotoks, Alberta, had 4 goals and 1 assist in 20 games with Brooks this season. He notched 4 goals and 2 assists in 39 games as a rookie with the Bandits last season. Johnson also got into two playoff games as Brooks advanced to the BC-Alberta Doyle Cup championship series. He played with the UFA Bisons Midget AAA team out of Strathmore, Alberta in 2010-11, registering 23 goals and 16 assists in 34 games as a 16-year-old.

"We are excited to add a player like Sam who showed tremendous offensive potential at the midget level," said Cents GM & Head Coach Luke Pierce. "He's been on arguably the best team in Canada for the past season and a half and we feel maybe hasn't been given the opportunity to show his best."

"We look forward to having Sam join our team in the coming days and working with him to become a valuable member of our hockey club," Pierce added.

"Brandon Bruce was instrumental in our success last year and his energy and intensity make him a very popular player from a fan perspective, Pierce continued. "His speed and tenacity will be missed but we believe there are individuals here who can make up for that.

"It's unfortunate this season didn't play out the way we hoped for Brandon and I’m sure from a personal standpoint, he'd echo those sentiments," Pierce reflected. "We certainly wish Brandon all the best with Brooks and in his future beyond junior hockey."


 (Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)

Raiders Sign Daae

Press Release

Prince Albert SK – The Prince Albert Raiders announced that they have signed 19-year-old forward Austin Daae to a standard Western Hockey League contract.

Daae, a product of Estevan, Saskatchewan, has played in 21 games for his hometown Bruins of the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League this season, scoring 5 goals and adding 11 assists for 16 points.

The 6’, 194-pound left-winger spent 52 games with the Prince George Cougars last season, recording 2 goals and 4 assists along with 19 penalty minutes.

“With the number of players attending international tournaments, this provides Austin an opportunity to come and compete for a roster spot with our club,” said Raiders General Manager Bruno Campese.


(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)

P.K. Subban Joins Sportsnet’s CHL Broadcasts As Guest Analyst

Press Release

TORONTO (November 28, 2012)Sportsnet today announced that Montreal Canadiens defenceman P.K. Subban will be joining the network’s Canadian Hockey League broadcasts as a guest analyst.
Subban will make his analyst debut on Friday Night Hockey this Friday, Nov. 30 at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT as the Windsor Spitfires take on the Kitchener Rangers on Sportsnet East, Ontario, West, and Pacific. The charismatic NHLer joins HOCKEY CENTRAL host Jeff Marek and analysts Nick Kypreos and Damien Cox to set up the game and provide intermission analysis from the Sportsnet studio, while play-by-play man RJ Broadhead and analyst Sam Cosentino are joined by host Rob Faulds at the Kitchener Memorial Auditorium.

Sportsnet continues to bolster its live hockey coverage in December with the addition of two Wednesday night CHL match-ups on Dec. 5 and 12. On Wednesday, Dec. 5 at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT, Olivier Archambault and the Voltigeurs de Drummondville take on Xavier Ouellet and the Blainville-Boisbriand Armada in a Quebec Major Junior Hockey League showdown on Sportsnet East, Ontario, West, and Pacific. Subban makes his second appearance as a Sportsnet guest analyst that night, joining play-by-play man Broadhead and analyst Cosentino in the broadcast booth at the Centre d'Excellence Sports Rousseau in Boisbriand,QC. HOCKEY CENTRAL host Daren Millard will be joined by analysts Kypreos and Cox for pre-game and intermission analysis in the Sportsnet studio. 

On Wednesday, Dec. 12 at 9 p.m. ET/6 p.m. PT, the Kelowna Rockets, led by Colton Sissons, visit Ty Rimmer and the Lethbridge Hurricanes on Sportsnet East, Ontario, West, and Pacific.  The HOCKEY CENTRAL team of Marek, Kypreos and Cox will provide pre-game and intermission analysis while Broadhead and Cosentino return to the broadcast booth to provide play-by-play and analysis, respectively, and Roger Millions hosts from rinkside.

As Canada’s premiere destination for all things CHL, Sportsnet will broadcast more than 45 CHL games during the 2012-13 season, including a game every Friday night during the regular season and playoffs, the six game Subway Super Series, the 2013 Home Hardware CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game and the 2013 MasterCard Memorial Cup. In addition to CHL coverage, Sportsnet continues to be home to live hockey in December with can’t-miss American Hockey League broadcasts, featuring appearances by current and future NHL stars.


 (Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)

Ftorek relieved of duties as head coach

Press Release

The Erie Otters of the Ontario Hockey League have announced that Robbie Ftorek has been relieved from his role as head coach. The announcement was made by Otters Managing Partner and General Manager Sherry Bassin.

Ftorek was in his sixth season as head coach of the Otters. He led the Otters to their third-best win total in franchise history with a 40-win campaign during the 2010-2011 season.

“Robbie has a distinguished career in coaching and is one of the classiest people in the game,” Bassin said. “He is a great mentor on and off the ice. I decided after considerable thought to make this difficult decision and to move in a different direction. The entire Otters family has the utmost respect for Robbie, Wendy and their family and expect that he will go on to bigger and better opportunities.”

“Based on this decision, I negotiated through the night and am happy to announce that Kris Knoblauch has accepted, in principle, the position as head coach of the Erie Otters.”

Knoblauch will join the Otters in time for Friday’s game in Sault Ste. Marie. Peter Sidorkiewicz will remain with the Otters as assistant coach.


(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)

Minor Midget Top-10 Rankings for Annual Showcase Tournament

Press Release

Toronto, ON – The Ontario Hockey League today announced the fourth edition of the weekly minor midget rankings for the 2013 OHL Cup Showcase Tournament presented by Visit Orlando and 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 which takes place March 12-17, 2013, at the Hershey Centre in Mississauga, ON, and Herb Carnegie Arena in Toronto. 

Minor Midget Rankings for the 2012 OHL Cup Showcase Tournament – Week 4
RANK
TEAM
LEAGUE
LAST WEEK RANK
WEEKS IN RANKINGS
1
Detroit Compuware
USA
1
4
2
Oakville Rangers
OMHA
2
4
3
Toronto Marlboros
GTHL
7
2
4
Elgin Middlesex Chiefs
ALLIANCE
3
4
5
York Simcoe Express
OMHA
4
4
6
Mississauga Rebels
GTHL
5
4
7
Barrie Jr. Colts
OMHA
10
4
8
London Jr. Knights Gold
ALLIANCE
-
3
9
Southern Tier Admirals
OMHA
6
4
10
Ottawa Senators
ODMHA
9
4
         
  Honourable Mention
     
  Whitby Wildcats
OMHA
-
0
  Kingston Jr. Frontenacs
OMHA
-
0
  Toronto Jr. Canadiens
GTHL
8
3


 (Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)

Wednesday, November 28, 2012

St. Louis 18U defenseman Brandt signs NAHL tender

Press Release

The St. Louis Selects of the North American Prospects Hockey League (NAPHL) have announced that 18U defenseman Jared Brandt has signed an NAHL tender with the Minot Minotauros.

Brandt, 17, has played in all nine of St. Louis’s NAPHL games this season as the Selects have posted a 7-0-2 record so far this season.  They sit in 1st place in the NAPHL’s 18U White Division and are the only team at the 18U level who has yet to suffer a loss in regulation this season.

The native of St. Peters, Missouri, is in his third season in the NAPHL.  He played the previous two seasons for the St. Louis Selects 16U team.  Last season, Brandt (5’9/175) had 7 points (1 goal, 6 assists) in 18 games played for the 16U squad.  He was second on the team in goals during the NAPHL Championship Series last season with four goals.

St. Louis will be a part of the upcoming NAPHL/NA3HL Showcase beginning Friday, November 30th in Blaine, Minnesota.  The Selects open the event with one of their toughest tests to date as they face the Anaheim Jr. Ducks, who are right behind them in the standings with a 7-2-0 record.


 (Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)

Pats Recall Connor Gay

Press Release

Regina, Saskatchewan – The Regina Pats have recalled forward Connor Gay from the Kindersley Klippers of the SJHL.

Gay (’95) skated with the Pats in three pre-season games this year, scoring in Regina’s first contest against Brandon.With Kindersley in the Junior-A ranks, Gay is off to a strong start in his rookie SJHL season.  With 19 points (8G, 11A) in 23 games for the Klippers, Gay sits third on the SJHL’s rookie scoring list.

A Pats listed player, the Saskatoon product showed scoring touch in Midget AAA, scoring 32 goals and adding 31 assists in 43 games for the Saskatoon Blazers last season.


 (Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)

Kings D-man Ripley commits to Fighting Irish

Press Release

The Powell River Kings are proud to announce Luke Ripley has committed to the University of Notre Dame and will play for the Fighting Irish.

A native of Kitimat, B.C., the 6-foot-4 blueliner has made great strides since joining the green and gold at the beginning of the season and thrived under pressure for Canada West at the World Junior ‘A’ Challenge in Yarmouth, N.S. earlier this month.

Kings head coach and general manager Kent Lewis is proud of Ripley.

"The staff at Notre Dame did a great job scouting Luke," he said. "They know they’re getting a strong defenseman who is going to continue to develop. We know Luke has made great strides since becoming a King and has proven that he is a big guy who can compete.

"His role with the team will continue to get heavier and heavier with each game as he continues to develop into a real leader. We’re  very proud of him.”


Ripley says he chose the Notre Dame Fighting Irish for a number of reasons.

“I know it’s a great school with a really strong hockey program," said the 18-year-old. "Since I’ve joined the Kings, I have improved a lot. I know I have a long ways to go, but I know that Notre Dame will be a great place to continue developing my skills.”


Luke hopes to pursue a degree in engineering while attending Notre Dame. 

Located in South Bend, Indiana, Notre Dame enjoys a stellar reputation for their athletic and academic programs. The hockey team currently sits in second place in the Central Collegiate Hockey Association but will be joining the Hockey East Conference for the 2013-14 season.


(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)

CHL Announces BMO CHL Top 10 Rankings

Press Release 

Toronto, ON – The Canadian Hockey League today announced the eleventh edition of the BMO CHL Top 10 Rankings for the 2012-13 regular 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 Top 10 Rankings – Week 11

Rank:
Team:
Last Week Rank:
Number of Weeks Ranked:
1
Halifax Mooseheads (21-3-0-1)
1
11
2
Kamloops Blazers (20-6-1-1)
2
10
3
Portland Winterhawks (20-4-1-0)
3
11
4
London Knights (20-5-0-2)
8
6
5
Blainville-Boisbriand Armada (20-5-0-2)
5
11
6
Owen Sound Attack (18-5-1-2)
4
8
7
Barrie Colts (18-7-0-1)
6
7
8
Quebec Remparts (19-5-0-1)
9
11
9
Calgary Hitmen (17-5-1-2)
10
4
10
Baie-Comeau Drakkar (17-7-1-2)
7
3
       
  Honourable Mention:
   
  Edmonton Oil Kings (16-5-2-2)
-
6
  Niagara IceDogs (17-8-1-1)
-
1
  Spokane Chiefs (17-7-1-0)
-


 (Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)

Winterhawks Statement on WHL Sanctions & Suspension

Press Release 

Today the Western Hockey League has announced disciplinary action against the Portland Winterhawks for violations related to player benefits. The WHL has forfeited the team from participating in the first five rounds of the 2013 WHL Bantam Draft and the forfeiture of the team’s first round picks in 2014, 2015, 2016 and 2017.

The WHL also announced the organization has been fined $200,000, and that General Manager & Head Coach Mike Johnston has been suspended for the remainder of the season, including the playoffs. Assistant General Manager & Assistant Coach Travis Green will assume Johnston’s duties on an interim basis.

What follows is a summary of the league’s findings, and a statement from Johnston:

The Winterhawks were found to have committed the following violations:

•       A player contract signed in 2009, involving flights for the player’s family and a summer training program
•       Over the last five years, seven families were provided flights 2-4 times per season based on financial need and their distance from Portland
•       Twice in the last five years the team paid for two players to each have a one-week summer training regimen
•       The Winterhawks provided a cell phone for its team captain for a period of three seasons

The WHL’s audit found no violations involving monetary payments made to players, their families or agents, or any violations related to the league’s educational packages.

“After fully cooperating with the league’s investigation, we were extremely surprised at the excessive nature of the sanctions, and we don’t feel they are in line with the scope of the violations we were found to have committed,” said Johnston.

“We believe that apart from recruiting trips and parents’ weekend, there is no prohibition in the rules governing flights for players’ parents, which were the majority of the infractions,” continued Johnston. “We are currently exploring our options on how we will proceed. Despite our objections, the league has made its decision, and our players will continue to pursue the goal of winning a WHL championship.”


(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)

ICERAYS HEUSER TO MAKE USHL DEBUT IN DES MOINES

Press Release 

CORPUS CHRISTI, TX – IceRays defenseman Trevor Heuser, who was drafted by the Des Moines Buccaneers in the USHL this past summer will make his debut this weekend when the Bucs take the ice for a three game set.

“I'm excited about the opportunity to go to the USHL at such a young age to play my first game,” said Heuser.  “The IceRays have helped me develop and opened these opportunities for me as well.”

Last season,  the 16yr old played four games with the IceRays before starting this year in Corpus Christi.  On the year, Heuser has suited up for 13 games picking up three assists and 32PIM’s.  

“Trevor has done a great job up to this point for the IceRays his work ethic is second to none,” said IceRays assistant coach Jeff Worlton.  “Put that together with his hockey sense we felt as a coaching staff it was only a matter of time before he got this opportunity to move up.  As an organization, we believe promoting our players to a higher level is IceRays hockey.”
Des Moines takes on Sioux Falls Friday and Saturday night in a home-and-home, before hosting Cedar Rapids on Sunday afternoon.  The Buccaneers have a 9-10-1 record in the Western Conference.  

The IceRays have had many suit up or drafted in the USHL such as Pheonix Copley, Colton Saucerman, Beau Walker, Matthew Weis, Brandon Smith, Eric Purcell, Danny Fetzer, Seth Blair, Will Clark, Grant Hutton and now Heuser who was picked in the 2012 USHL Draft, Des Moines drafted Heuser in the 19th round, 273rd overall.

Head coach Justin Quenneville spoke highly of Heuser but know it’s all about advancing players.  “This is a great opportunity for Trevor. Understandably we would like him in the lineup this weekend against the top ranked team in the league, but we are a program who provides opportunities like this to these young men and Trevor is deserving of it. He will be back in an IceRays uniform next week and we wish him the best of luck this weekend." 


(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)

Wild 16U forward Koukis signs NAHL tender

Press Release

The Wenatchee Wild 16U team of the North American Prospects Hockey League (NAPHL) is pleased to announce that forward Chris Koukis has signed an NAHL tender with Wenatchee’s NAHL club.

Koukis, 16, is currently second on the team in scoring with six points (3 goals, 3 assists) in eight games played to date in the NAPHL.  The native of Brentwood, California, is currently riding a three-game goal scoring streak, which came during the NAPHL event in San Jose, California, during late October.  The Wild put together a 3-1-0 record at the event and currently sit in a tie for 4th place in the NAPHL’s 16U White Division with a 4-2-2 record.

Koukis (5’11/161) played last season for the Pursuit of Excellence 18U team as a 15-year-old, where he had two goals in 13 games played.  Back in 2010, Koukis was drafted by the Swift Current Broncos in the Western Hockey League’s Bantam Draft as a 14-year-old.


(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)

Miners 18U forward Hutchins signs NAHL tender with Topeka

Press Release 

The Pikes Peak Miners, proud members of the North American Prospects Hockey League (NAPHL), have announced that 18U forward Connor Hutchins, 17, has signed a tender with the Topeka RoadRunners of the North American Hockey League (NAHL).

Hutchins, a native of North Richland Hills, Texas in suburban Ft. Worth, is currently tied for the scoring lead in the NAPHL’s 18U Division with 18 points (8 goals, 10 assists).  His eight goals ranks 2nd in the NAPHL 18U Division as do his 10 assists.  Eight of those points came during Pikes Peak’s four games at their last NAPHL event in San Jose, California, where the Miners posted a 3-0-1 record.

Hutchins (5’11/180) has registered at least a point in all nine of the Miners games this season, which included a four-point game in his first game of the season.  The Miners have a 6-2-1 record to date, but sit in 5th place in the emerging tough 18U White Division.


 (Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)

WHL SANCTIONS PORTLAND WINTERHAWKS

Press Release

CALGARY, AB. - The Western Hockey League announced today the disciplinary action which has been taken against the Portland Winterhawks franchise for a series of violations of the WHL Regulations.
As a result of a series of player benefit violations which have occurred over the past four seasons, WHL Commissioner Ron Robison has suspended the Portland Winterhawks from participating in the first five rounds of the 2013 WHL Bantam Draft and the forfeiture of their first round selections in the 2014, 2015, 2016 and 2017 WHL Bantam Drafts.  Should the first round selection in 2014 not be available due to a conditional trade, Portland will surrender their second and third round picks in the 2014 WHL Bantam Draft.  The WHL also announced the Portland Winterhawks have been fined $200,000 and Winterhawks General Manager and Head Coach Mike Johnston has been suspended for the balance of the 2012-13 season, including the 2013 WHL Playoffs.

“All WHL Clubs understand they are required to fully comply and respect our League Regulations or they will face significant consequences,” stated WHL Commissioner Ron Robison.  “WHL Clubs are required to fully disclose all commitments they make to a player in the WHL Standard Player Agreement.  Our independent investigation in this case revealed there were multiple violations over an extended period for player benefits that are not permitted under WHL Regulations and were not disclosed to the WHL.  It should also be noted through the course of the investigation there was no evidence of any payments or enhanced education benefits provided to players that would be contrary to WHL Regulations as previous media reports indicated.”

The Western Hockey League will not make any further public comments on this matter.


 (Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)

Coaches and Captains for 2013 Home Hardware CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game

Press Release

Toronto, ON – The Canadian Hockey League today announced that hockey icon Don Cherry will return behind the bench for the 2013 Home Hardware CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game on January 16 in Halifax, Nova Scotia, to coach against Stanley Cup Champion and former NHL player Mike McPhee.

Team Cherry will be led by Halifax Mooseheads star forward Nathan MacKinnon who will captain a group that will also include fellow Mooseheads forward Jonathan Drouin and defenceman Darnell Nurse of the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds who will serve as Team Cherry Alternate Captains.  McPhee will serve behind the bench for Team Orr who will be captained by Portland Winterhawks defenceman Seth Jones, with forwards Sean Monahan of the Ottawa 67’s and Hunter Shinkaruk of the Medicine Hat Tigers serving as Alternates.  The rest of the 20-man rosters will be announced at a later date.

“Don is one of the original builders of this game and the Canadian Hockey League is honoured to have him and Stanley Cup winner Mike McPhee as coaches of this prestigious event,” said CHL President David Branch.  “Since 1996 the Home Hardware CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game has been one of the highlights of the CHL calendar and we are excited to showcase 40 of the league’s top prospects eligible for the 2013 NHL Draft in Halifax where they will compete before hundreds of scouts in attendance and live on Sportsnet and TVA Sports for CHL fans across the country.”

The 2013 Home Hardware CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game marks the 14th year of involvement for Cherry who has coached head-to-head against Bobby Orr 11 different times including six-straight meetings when the event began in 1996 at Maple Leaf Gardens.  Cherry has picked up five victories in this event including a win over coaching opponent John Davidson in 2005, and most recently in 2010 in Windsor with a 4-2 win against Orr.  He last participated in 2011 at Air Canada Centre in Toronto falling 7-1 to Team Orr led by Coaches Doug Gilmour and Wendel Clark.  To recognize their contributions as builders of this event, the CHL presented the Don Cherry and Bobby Orr Home Hardware CHL/NHL Top Prospects Trophy in 2006 for the first time to the winning team.  Engraved on the award are the names of every player to ever participate in the event.

McPhee was born and raised in Nova Scotia and played in 744 career NHL games including eight full seasons with the Montreal Canadiens followed by a season with the Minnesota North Stars, then the Dallas Stars in 1993-94.  He recorded 399 points in his NHL career after being selected by the Canadiens in the 1980 NHL Entry Draft, winning a Stanley Cup with the club in 1986.  His professional career started in Halifax playing two seasons with the AHL’s Nova Scotia Voyageurs from 1982-84.  McPhee joins a long list of NHL alumni and celebrity coaches who have participated in this event including Cherry, Orr, Gilmour, Clark, Davidson, Kelly Hrudey, Tiger Williams, Scotty Bowman, Pat Burns, Jacques Demers, Michel Bergeron, Grant Fuhr, Glenn Anderson, Lanny MacDonald, Mike Vernon, Pat Quinn, and Mark Recchi.

MacKinnon, a 17-year-old from Dartmouth, NS, was the top QMJHL skater listed by NHL Central Scouting in their Preliminary Rankings for the 2013 NHL Draft.  He is tied for second in league scoring with 43 points in 25 games and claimed Player of the Game honours in the SUBWAY Super Series with a four-point game against Russia in the QMJHL’s 5-2 win in Val-d’Or.  Drouin, a 17-year-old from Ste-Agathe, Quebec, has 40 points in 19 games with the Mooseheads and is the second ranked QMJHL skater for the 2013 NHL Draft.  Nurse, a 17-year-old from Hamilton, ON, represents the OHL’s second ranked skater and top ranked defenceman who has 17 points in 26 games for the Greyhounds this season.

Jones, an 18-year-old from Plano, Texas, is the top ranked WHL skater for the 2013 NHL Draft and currently leads all WHL rookie defencemen in scoring with 17 points in 24 games.  Last year he captained Team USA to Gold at the 2012 IIHF World Under-18 Championship.  Monahan, an 18-year-old from Brampton, ON, is the top ranked OHL skater for the NHL Draft and is tenth in league scoring with 36 points in 24 games.  The Tigers’ Shinkaruk, an 18-year-old from Calgary, AB, is ninth in WHL scoring with 35 points in 24 games and is the second ranked WHL skater behind Jones.

The 2013 Home Hardware CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game is supported by title sponsor Home Hardware for the 14th straight year with associate sponsors Bank of Montreal, Subway, Old Dutch, and Post.  The game will be broadcast live to a national audience on Sportsnet and TVA Sports beginning at 7:00 pm Eastern (8:00 pm local time) and is available online through Sportsnet Radio.

The 2013 Home Hardware CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game will mark the 18th 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.  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 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.


 (Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)

CCHL TIER 1 CORPORATE HYPE PLAYER OF THE WEEK - WEEK 12

Press Release

 The Central Canada Hockey League (CCHL) is pleased to announce that the Corporate Hype Player of the Weekis Pietro Antonelli of the Hawkesbury Hawks. Antonelli was a key in all three Hawk wins as they went 3-0 defeating Brockville Braves twice and the Smiths Falls Bears. The Blainville, QC native accumulated six points (3G, 3A) and was voted a first, second and third game star in each of the games this past week.  The Hawks struggled early but are now finding their groove and in the top 8 of the league standings.

The Central Canada Hockey League (CCHL) features two teams in the Canadian Junior Hockey League (CJHL) Top 20 this week. TheSmiths Falls Bears  stay #19 while the Carleton Place Canadians were acknowledged as an Honorable Mention in the weekly rankings.  

 Honorable Mention: F Michael Pontarelli (Cornwall Colts) andF Stephen Baylis(Carleton Place Canadians) 

 (Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)

CANALTA HOTELS SJHL PLAYERS OF THE WEEK NOV 26

Press Release

 CANALTA HOTELS SJHL PLAYER OF THE WEEK
Brandon Millin, Notre Dame Hounds
1992 F Brandon Millin (Port Moody BC) collected a goal and four assists in three games played last week and has been a key player for the Hounds on their recent run of 10-0-0-and-1.  Millin had a big three point game on Saturday against Humboldt and for the season is up to 13-goals and 17-assists in 24-games.

CANALTA HOTELS SJHL DEFENSEMAN OF THE WEEK
Tyler Borstmayer, Weyburn Red Wings
1993 D Tyler Borstmayer (St. Brieux SK) had one assist in each of Weyburn's victories over the weekend, as the Wings stayed within striking distance of a playoff spot.  Borstmayer, who now has 4-points in 21-games on the season, is a big 6'4" 210 lbs speciman and he figures to continue playing a key role for the club as they look to move into the fifth and final playoff spot in the Sherwood Conference.

CANALTA HOTELS SJHL ROOKIE OF THE WEEK
Brett Boehm, Flin Flon Bombers
1994 F Brett Boehm (Saskatoon SK) had 2-goals and 2-assists in 2-games played last week and he continues to enjoy a major breakout year in his rookie campaign as he's up to 28-points in 20-games played overall.  Boehm got three of those points in last Tuesday's win over the La Ronge Ice Wolves.  Boehm leads all rookies this season in goals and points.

CANALTA HOTELS SJHL GOALTENDER OF THE WEEK
Kale Thomson, Yorkton Terriers
1993 G Kale Thomson (Yorkton SK) is back in the groove after a brief hiccup earlier this month.  Thomson won both of his starts last week against Melville, posting a 1.44 GAA and a .952 SPCT.  For the season, Thomson is now 10-4-and-1 with a 2.68-GAA and a SPCT of .912.

 (Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)

COTTON NAMED CHAIR OF CENTRAL CANADA CUP

Press Release

The Ontario Junior Hockey League (OJHL), conjunction with the Central Canada Hockey League (CCHL) and the Ligue de Hockey Junior AAA de Quebec (LHJAAAQ), is proud to announce that Don Cotton has been named Chairman of the 2012 Central Canada Cup scheduled to take place in Wellington, Ontario from December 27-29 at the Wellington & District Community Centre.

Originally a native of Tweed, Ontario, Cotton now resides in Belleville and has held various posts with the Dukes organization for more than two decades.  Currently the club’s Governor, Cotton also spent 13 years as a scout for the Ontario Hockey League’s Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds, while also spending time as the Dukes’ Assistant General Manager and Alternate Governor before taking on his current role.

“As Governor of the Wellington Dukes and Tournament Chair, I would first like to thank the three leagues, along with the OHA, for their assistance in bringing this event together,” said Cotton.  “Our organizing committee has been working very hard to carry on with the success achieved in the inaugural year hosted by the Smiths Falls Bears of the CCHL.”

Also announced today was the ticket price structure for the three day event.  Tickets are available as full individual day passes and the prices are as follows:

Adult     $20 ($10 after 6pm)
Students (6-19 years of age)  $10 ($5 after 6pm)
Children (6 & under)   Free


“People in the area are enthused and we expect good support, especially from the fans in the area,” continued Cotton.  “We feel that the calibre of hockey to be played will be fast and entertaining, and will be well worth the $20.00 for adults and $10.00 for students each day, for the number of games one will be able to see.”

For more information or for the full tournament schedule, please visit the 2012 Central Canada Cup website by clicking HERE.


(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)

Four new members will be inducted into the QMJHL Hall of Fame – presented by RDS

Press Release

The commissioner of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League, Gilles Courteau, unveiled today, the names of the four new inductees that will make their way into the QMJHL Hall of Fame – presented by RDS on Wednesday April 3rd, 2013 at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in downtown Montreal.

Three players and a builder will be honoured. “We will recognize four important figures in our history during the evening” said the commissioner. “We will have the pleasure of celebrating the careers of Jean-Claude Morrissette, Marc Saumier, Sylvain Côté and Félix Potvin. I would like to thank the members of the QMJHL Hall of Fame – presented by RDS, selection committee: Michel Côté (president), Denis Baillargé, Michel Gagnon, Albert Ladouceur, Bertrand Raymond and Marc Lachapelle for their excellent and continuous contribution to this precious institution.”

The president of the selection committee, Michel Côté, also added: “There are so many worthy candidates, that choosing is always very difficult. However, we rigorously analysed each candidate and believe that we have made the right choices. All four individuals had excellent careers in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League and fully deserve this honour. We are looking forward to inducting them into the Hall of Fame.”

Here is a brief overview of their careers:

Jean-Claude Morrissette (Builder)

Jean-Claude Morrissette was born in Lac-Bouchette, in Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean, Quebec on April 21, 1946.

Jean-Claude Morrissette worked for over ten years in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League. He is one of the leaders of the Morrissette family that has greatly influenced Quebec Junior hockey. He hired talented and prestigious coaches such as Michel Therrien and Bob Hartley who both made their way to the NHL.

During his time in the QMJHL, Jean-Claude Morrissette enjoyed tremendous success. His teams were made in his image, evolving with heart and character. Jean-Claude Morissette made his debut in the QMJHL as governor of the Laval Titan in 1987.

He won three President Cups with the Laval Titan (1989, 1990, 1993). He also won the John Horman Trophy with the same team in 1994, awarded annually to the Executive of the Year.

He continued his career in the world of junior hockey in Quebec with the Granby Predateurs. That team led him to his fourth President Cup in 1996.

That same edition of the Granby Predateurs also allowed him to raise the prestigious Memorial Cup on May 19, 1996, awarded annually to the best junior hockey team in the country. It was the first Canadian championship for a QMJHL team since the Cornwall Royals in 1981.

He retired from the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League in 1997 after more than ten years at the helm of winning teams.

Marc Saumier

Marc Saumier was born in the city of Hull, Quebec on April 18, 1967. A right-handed center player measuring 5’8” and weighing 181 lbs.

Information on his career
Teams during his time in the QMJHL:
Hull: 1984-85, 1985-86, 1987-88
Longueuil: 1985-86, 1986-87

Marc Saumier was the 182nd overall pick in the QMJHL entry draft in 1984; 16th round pick of the Hull Olympiques.

Marc Saumier never played for the Midget AAA development league, but opted instead for the Midget AA in Hull.

During his QMJHL career in both regular season and playoffs, Marc Saumier scored a total of 167 goals and added 302 assists for a total of 469 points. He also accumulated an impressive 1 171 penalty minutes.

During the 1985-86 season, he was part of a major trade sending him and four other players to the Longueuil Chevaliers in exchange for Guy Rouleau. During his last junior season in 1987-88, he finished in 3rd place for leading scorers with 166 points in 59 games played.

During the same season, his streak of 39 consecutive games with at least one point (at the time the 7th best in QMJHL history), eclipsed the Olympique’s franchise record of 34, established by Guy Rouleau in 1985-86.

He won the President Cup in 1987 with the Longueuil Chevaliers and in 1988 with the Hull Olympiques. He was named the Most Valuable Player of the playoffs in both those consecutive conquests and was awarded as a result the Guy Lafleur trophy, a feat only one other player was able to accomplish in the League’s history: Maxime Talbot with the Olympiques (2003-2004).

In 1988, he also won the Michel-Brière Memorial Trophy awarded to the Most Valuable Player and was named to the first all-star team.

Marc Saumier is ranked 10th in the League’s history in playoffs with a total of 89 points in 44 games. He has a glowing average of 2.023 points per game.

Sylvain Côté

Sylvain Côté was born in Quebec City on January 19, 1966. A 6’0”, 172 lbs defenseman. He was the Quebec Remparts first overall pick during the QMJHL’s 1982 entry Draft.

Information on his career
Teams during his QMJHL career:
Quebec Remparts: 1982-83, 1983-84, 1984-85
Hull Olympiques: 1985-86

In 178 regular season and playoff games in the QMJHL, Sylvain Côté scored 42 goals and added 127 assists for a total of 179 points. Early on, he caught the eyes of NHL recruiters making him the 11th overall pick of the Hartford Whalers in the first round of the 1984 NHL Draft.

At 18, he made the jump to the NHL in Hartford before returning to play a season in the QMJHL to finish off his junior career on a high note.

During his last season in the QMJHL, even though he had only played 26 games, the 43 points he collected were enough to influence the League to award him the Emile Bouchard trophy given annually to the best defenseman of the year. It was also during this season that Sylvain Côté was finally able to raise the President Cup with the Hull Olympiques in 1986. He was awarded the Guy Lafleur trophy handed out annually to the Most Valuable Player of the playoffs, which he shared with Luc Robitaille.

He was selected in 1984 to be part of the Junior Hockey Canada team.

Sylvain Côté was named to the 3rd QMJHL All-Star team in 1982-83, the 2nd all-star team in 1983-84 and the 1st all-star team in 1985-86.

During his 19 seasons in the NHL, Sylvian Côté wore the uniforms of the Harford Whalers, Washington Capitals, Toronto Maple Leafs, Chicago Blackhawks and Dallas Stars. He played a total of 1 171 games during the regular season with a total of 122 goals and 313 assists for 435 points.

Félix Potvin
Félix Potvin was born in Anjou Quebec on June 23, 1971. A 6’1’’, 175 lbs goaltender, he was the 15th overall pick of the QMJHL Entry Draft in 1988.

Information on his career:
Team during his time in the QMJHL
Chicoutimi Saguenéens for three seasons (1988-89, 1989-90, 1990-91).

During his junior career, Potvin had a total of 105 wins, 77 losses and 7 tied games for a total of 204 games played in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League.

Nicknamed “The Cat”, he raised the President Cup in 1991 with the Saguenéens after their win against the Drummondville Voltigeurs. During these playoffs, he was also awarded the Guy Lafleur trophy, given annually to the Most Valuable Player. For the 1990-1991 season he was awarded the Jacques Plante Memorial Trophy handed out for his goals-against-average of 2.70, a new league record at the time.

He was named the best goaltender of the Memorial Cup in 1991 and won the Hap Emms trophy, on top of being named to the all-star team of the tournament.

Félix Potvin was named in the QMJHL rookie All-Star team in 1988-89, on the second All-Star team in 1989-90 and the first All-Star team in 1990-91.

In 1990, he was selected by the Toronto Maple Leafs in the second round of the National Hockey League’s annual draft; 31st overall.

During his 15 seasons in the NHL, Félix Potvin wore the Toronto Maple Leafs, New York Islanders, Vancouver Canucks, Los Angeles Kings and Boston Bruins jerseys.

(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)

Raiders Imports Selected to Represent Their Countries

Press Release


Prince Albert SK – Both Prince Albert Raiders import players, 19-year-old forward Jonas Knutsen and 17-year-old forward Leon Draisaitl, have been selected to represent their native countries at upcoming World Junior Championship events.

Knutsen will represent his home country of Norway at the Division I Under-20 World Championships in Amiens, France. The 6’, 180-pound left-winger participated in the tournament last year, finishing second in team scoring with 5 goals and 2 assists in 5 games en route to a silver medal. The Oslo product has 2 goals and 7 assists for the Raiders so far this season. Team Norway will begin the tournament on December 9th against the Austrians before taking on France, Belarus, Denmark and Slovenia.

Draisaitl, a native of Cologne, Germany, will play for his country in the World Junior Championships in Ufa, Russia. The 6’1”, 198-pound centre represented his country at the World Under-17 Challenge and the World Under-18 Championships last year, leading Germany in scoring at both tournaments. Draisaitl currently sits tied for top spot in WHL rookie scoring with 23 points, including 7 goals and 16 assists, the most helpers among all new players. Germany begins the tournament on Boxing Day against Team Canada followed by games against the United Stated, Russia and Slovakia.  

Knutsen will depart to join his team on December 5th and will return to the Raiders on December 26th, while Draisaitl will head overseas on December 10th to unite with his teammates, and will travel back to Prince Albert on January 5th


 (Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)

Ceresnak to represent Slovakia at WJC

Press Release

The Peterborough Petes are proud to announce that defenceman Peter Ceresnak has been invited to represent Team Slovakia at the 2013 World Junior Championship taking place in Russia.

This is the third year that Peter will represent his home country of Slovakia at the WJC.  He is scheduled to report to Slovakia on December 10th for a pre-event camp in Bratislava before departing for Moscow on December 23rd.  The WJC runs until January 8th, 2013.

“The Slovak Ice Hockey Federation would be honoured to have Peter Ceresnak join the Slovak National U20 Team” states Otto Sykora, General Secretary for the Slovak Ice Hockey Federation in a letter to the Petes.


 (Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)

Storm’s Scott Kosmachuk Named CHL Player of the Week

Press Release

Toronto, ON – The Canadian Hockey League today announced that Scott Kosmachuk of the Guelph Storm is the CHL Player of the Week after scoring six goals and two assists for eight points in three games with a plus-minus rating of plus-6 for the week ending November 25.

Kosmachuk led the Storm to three wins last week capped off by a four-point performance including his first hat-trick of the season and second of his career while adding an assist on Saturday night as first star of a 7-5 win over the Ottawa 67’s.  His week also included a single goal last Wednesday in an 8-0 win over the Mississauga Steelheads, and another first star performance on Friday scoring twice including the game-winner along with an assist as part of a 3-2 win over the Erie Otters.

Kosmachuk, an 18-year-old from Toronto, ON, is playing in his third OHL season with the Storm and was selected in the third round of the 2012 NHL Entry Draft by the Winnipeg Jets.  In 27 games this season, he has scored a team-high 18 goals including seven on the power play and has 14 assists for 32 points.

Also considered for the award this week were Brendan Leipsic of the Portland Winterhawks and Allain Saulnier of the Moncton Wildcats who each scored three goals and six assists for nine points in three games.


(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)

Rebels’ Patrik Bartosak Named Vaughn CHL Goaltender of the Week

Press Release

Toronto, ON – The Canadian Hockey League today announced that Patrik Bartosak of the Red Deer Rebels is the Vaughn CHL Goaltender of the Week for the week ending November 25 after posting a 3-0-0-0 record with a shutout victory along with an impressive goals-against-average of 0.63 and save percentage of .982.

Bartosak turned aside 108 shots last week backstopping the Rebels to three straight wins beginning Tuesday night where he was perfect making 43 saves to record his first shutout of the season as first star of a 4-0 win over the Medicine Hat Tigers.  He followed that up with a pair of shootout victories including Friday night’s 2-1 win over the Lethbridge Hurricanes where he made 23 saves and stopped all three shooters.  He was then named first star of Saturday night’s 2-1 shootout win over the Moose Jaw Warriors making 42 saves and stopping three of four shooters to preserve the victory. 

Bartosak, a 19-year-old from Koprivnice, Czech Republic, is playing in his second WHL season with the Rebels.  He currently holds a 13-7-1-0 record with a goals-against-average of 2.35 along with the third highest save percentage in the WHL with a mark of .933.

Also considered for the award this week was Garret Sparks of the Guelph Storm who went 2-0-0-0 with a shutout victory posting a goals-against-average of 1.00 and save percentage of .968.  Rookie Alexandre Belanger of the Rouyn-Noranda Huskies also went 2-0-0-0 with a shutout victory and a goals-against-average of 1.00 along with a save percentage of .961.


 (Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)