Friday, May 31, 2013

COUGARS' COLIN JACOBS SIGNS WITH BUFFALO

Press Release

BUFFALO, N.Y. - The Buffalo Sabres have signed rookie forward Colin Jacobs to a three-year, entry-level contract.

Jacobs, 6-foot-1 and 202 pounds, was selected by Buffalo in the fourth round of the 2011 draft. From Coppell, Texas, he finished last season playing for Buffalo's American Hockey League affiliate in Rochester on a tryout basis, and had a goal and two assists in 11 games.

He joined Rochester after completing his Canadian junior career with Prince George of the Western Hockey League. He led Prince George with 25 goals and 53 points in 66 games last season.

In 252 career games, Jacobs had 142 points (69 goals, 73 assists) and 332 penalty minutes.

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

Lancers Tab Brian Kaufman as Head Coach and GM

Press Release

 The Omaha Lancers of the United States Hockey League (USHL) are pleased to announce that Brian Kaufman has been named Head Coach/GM for the 2013-2014 season.  Kaufman, who served as the team’s assistant coach last year, becomes the 11th Head Coach in the 28-year history of the Lancers.

“We are absolutely thrilled to introduce Brian as the next head coach of the Omaha Lancers,” said Lancers President/Managing Partner Ben Robert.  “He represents everything we’re looking for in a head coach.  He possesses a winning mentality and leadership culture coupled with an ability to relate to today’s players that makes him the perfect fit for our team.”

“I’m incredibly excited for this phenomenal opportunity,” Kaufman said.  “The Omaha Lancers are one of the most storied franchises in junior hockey and I’m looking forward to continuing to be part of something special here in Omaha.”

Kaufman’s appointment as the team’s next head coach comes after an exhaustive search by Lancers’ ownership that lasted nearly seven weeks.

“After reviewing better than 50 applicants and conducting more than 20 interviews, it became clear that Brian was the right choice for the Omaha Lancers,” Robert said.  “He’s only a few years removed from an incredibly successful college career both on and off the ice and as such, is in an ideal position to prepare our players for that same kind of success.  What’s more, he possesses the kinds of intangibles that can’t be taught and was mentored by one of college hockey’s sharpest minds in Miami’s Enrico Blasi.”

Before coming to Omaha last season, Kaufman began his coaching career as a graduate assistant at Miami University (Ohio) during the 2011-12 season where the RedHawks produced a 24-15-2 regular season mark en route to a fourth place finish within the CCHA.

Prior to that, Kaufman completed four years under Coach Blasi as a player and served as Miami’s captain during the 2007-08 and 2008-09 campaigns, including the RedHawks’ 2009 NCAA tournament run, which concluded with a heartbreaking 4-3 overtime defeat to Boston University in the NCAA National Championship.

“Through my experiences both in junior and college hockey, I’ve learned what it takes to build a winning culture and a successful program,” Kaufman said.  “The Lancers are already one of the most successful franchises in junior hockey and I look forward to continuing that great tradition by bringing the Clark Cup back to Omaha.”

Kaufman, 29, was born in Shoreview, Minnesota and currently resides in Omaha with his fiancée Chelsea.  He has an MBA from Miami University (Ohio) along with a major in finance and a minor in marketing.

“The USHL is a league of opportunities both for players and coaches,” Robert said.  “Back in 1994, the Lancers hired a young head coach with only three years of assistant coaching experience.  That was Mike Hastings and he became one of the most successful coaches in the history of junior hockey.

“I see many similarities between Coach Kaufman and Coach Hastings,” Robert continued.  “Brian is an outstanding person who comes from a great family.  He has an unrelenting desire to succeed and will represent the Lancers organization with pride and passion.”

Who is Brian Kaufman??

    29 Years Old (Born February 25, 1984).
    Hometown: Shoreview, Minnesota.
    Engaged to Chelsea Miller (Aurora, Nebraska).  To be married late August 2013.
    Parents: Chuck and Sue Kaufman.
    Siblings: Brothers Joe (32) and Craig (27).
    Played high school hockey at Mounds View High School (1998-2000) and with Hill-Murray Pioneers (2000-2002).  Served as team captain during senior season (2001-02).
    Played junior hockey with Billings Bulls (North American Hockey League) (2002-2005).  Served as team captain during 2004-05 season.  Registered 66 goals, 68 assists and 134 points in 147 career games in Billings.
    Played college hockey at Miami University (Ohio) (CCHA) (2005-2009).  Served as team captain during junior and senior seasons (2007-08, 2008-09).  Recorded 30 goals, 54 assists and 84 points in 125 career games with the RedHawks.
    MBA from Miami University (Ohio) along with a major in finance and minor in marketing.
    Played two seasons of professional hockey (2009-10 with Gwinnett Gladiators and Johnstown Chiefs of the East Coast Hockey League, 2010-11 with Bloomington PrairieThunder of the Central Hockey League).
    Began coaching career as graduate assistant at Miami University (Ohio) during 2011-12 season.
    Joined USHL as assistant coach of the Omaha Lancers last season.

The Lancers will hold their annual Tryout Camp beginning Friday, June 7 and concluding Sunday, June 9 at Ralston Arena.  Camp is open to the public and admission is free.  All sessions of the Lancers Tryout Camp will be held on the auxiliary ice rink at Ralston Arena.

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

Mustangs Hire Derek Stuart as New Head Coach

Press Release

The Calgary Mustangs hockey club is pleased to announce the hiring of Derek Stuart as the new Head Coach and Assistant General Manager. The Calgary native had served as an assistant coach under James Poole with the Okotoks Oilers for the past three seasons. The Oilers made the playoffs all three seasons and advanced to game 7 of the South Final on two occasions."I am very excited about the chance to be a head coach at this level. I am grateful for the opportunity and look forward to the challenge ahead."

Prior to his coaching position with the Oilers, Stuart was the assistant coach with the Midget AAA Calgary Buffaloes from 2006-2010. In four years behind the bench the Buffaloes earned births in back to back Telus Cup National Championships winning a silver medal along with a fourth place finish. The Buffs also won 2 League Championships, 2 Pacific Regional Titles, and captured the Mac's Midget Tournament in 2008-2009.

Prior to coaching, Derek’s playing background included three years of Jr. A hockey in B.C., NCAA Hockey with Bemidji State University and a National Championship with the Mount Royal Cougars. Stuart will also be bringing on new assistant coaches behind the bench next season.


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

Flyers sign Maxim Lamarche

Press Release

The Philadelphia Flyers have agreed to free-agent contract with 6-3, 218-lb defenseman Maxim Lamarche, according to general manager Paul Holmgren.

 Lamarche, 20 (7/11/92), comes to the Flyers organization from Baie-Comeau of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League. He recorded nine goals and 34 assists for 43 points in 55 games during the 2012-13 regular season, while posting a plus-31 rating. He helped the Drakkar to a berth in the QMJHL finals, where they lost to eventual Memorial Cup champion Halifax. Over four seasons in the QMJHL with Victoriaville and Baie-Comeau, Lamarche recorded 23 goals and 90 assists for 113 points in 252 games, along with 269 PIM.

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

Blackhawks agree to terms with 2011 draft pick Broadhurst

Press Release 

The Chicago Blackhawks announced today that they have agreed to terms with forward Alex Broadhurst, the team’s seventh round choice (199th overall) in the 2011 NHL Entry Draft, on a three-year entry-level contract.

Broadhurst, 20, tallied 63 points (24G, 39A) in 65 games with the London Knights of the Ontario Hockey League last season, while ranking third on the team in points and assists, and fifth in goals. The 5-11, 174-pound forward also ranked second on the Knights with 28 points (10G, 18A) in 21 OHL playoff games, while leading London to the 2013 Robertson Cup.

Prior to his time in London, Broadhurst recorded 106 points (39G, 67A) in 108 career games with the Green Bay Gamblers of the United States Hockey League from 2010 to 2012. The New Lenox, Ill., native led the Gamblers to the 2012 Clark Cup title and was named to the 2012 USHL First All-Star Team.

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

USNTDP U17 grad Josh Wesley commits to Plymouth Whalers

Press Release

 PLYMOUTH – Plymouth Whalers General Manager and Head Coach Mike Vellucci announced the signing 17-year-old defenseman Josh Wesley, who was taken by the Whalers in the fifth round (98th overall) of the 2012 Ontario Hockey League Priority Selection.

Wesley will attend high school in the fall at the Plymouth-Canton Educational Park.

“We’re excited to sign Josh to an education contract,” Vellucci said.  “We’re happy that Josh chose Plymouth as the next step in his development as a player and a student.”

Wesley – 6-foot-2 and 203 pounds, from Raleigh, N.C. – contributed 7 assists and 20 PIM’s in 56 games for the United States National Team Development Program U-17’s last season.  He played for the Carolina Jr. Hurricanes program in 2011-12, scoring seven goals and six assists for 13 points in 18 games.

“Things are going great,” Wesley said.  “I lived in the area the past year while playing for the National Development Program, but made the change here.  I’m truly honored to put on the Whalers sweater. I’m very excited to get going.”

Although Wesley grew up in North Carolina, he was considered one of the top defensemen in the United States in his age-group at the time of his selection by the Whalers.  Plymouth has a history of drafting or acquiring players from all around the United States, including Stefan Noesen (Plano, TX), Cody Payne (Weston, FL), Austin Levi (Aurora, CO), Ryan Hartman (West Dundee, IL) and Connor Carrick (Orland Park, IL), among others.

“I grew up watching all of those players,” Wesley said.  “Now I get a chance to play with a lot of them.”

Wesley’s father, Glen, played 20 seasons in the National Hockey League with Boston, Hartford, Toronto and Carolina.

Wesley is expected to report to Plymouth’s training camp in late August, with the first pre-season games to be played around Labor Day.

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

Noreau agrees to terms on first contract

Press Release

New York Rangers President and General Manager Glen Sather announced today that the club has agreed to terms with defenseman Samuel Noreau.

Noreau, 20, skated in 66 games with Baie-Comeau of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League (QMJHL) last season, registering seven goals and 25 assists for a total of 32 points, along with 64 penalty minutes and a plus-19 rating.

He established a career-high in goals, assists, points, and plus-minus rating. Noreau posted a career-best, four-game point streak, on two occasions -- November 9 at Rouyn-Noranda to November 14 vs. Shawinigan (two goals, five assists over the span) and January 11 vs. Rouyn-Noranda to January 20 vs. Shawinigan (four assists over the span). Noreau also skated in 15 playoff games, tallying two goals, one assist and 12 penalty minutes. He notched his first career postseason goal on April 8 at Victoriaville.

The 6-5, 220-pounder registered 18 goals and 45 assists for 63 points, along with 314 penalty minutes in 225 career QMJHL games over four seasons with Baie-Comeau. In 2011-12, Noreau ranked third among Baie-Comeau defensemen in goals (five) and fourth in points (17). He made his QMJHL debut on November 8 vs. Victoriaville and registered his first career point with an assist on January 29 at Shawinigan.

The Montreal, Quebec native was selected by the Rangers in the fifth round, 136th overall, in the 2011 NHL Entry Draft.

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

WEST KELOWNA'S 1ST ANNUAL ALUMNI CHARITY WEEKEND

Press Release

We are just days away from our 1st Annual Charity Weekend presented by our locally owned Tim Hortons!

Here are the details:

Saturday, June 1st, 2013

Tim Hortons presents the 1st Annual Warriors Alumni Hockey Game featuring stars of the present, and past, Warriors teams.

Game Time: 5pm
Admission: By Food Bank Donation (Cash/Or Non-Perishable Food Item)

Team Justin Schultz takes on Team Max French!

Sunday, June 2nd, 2013

If you are registered in the Golf Tournament, or a sponsor of the Tournament, you are invited to a Mix & Mingle with all the players, including Justin Schultz, at 19 Okanagan Bar & Grill from 6-8pm.

We will be supplying sponsors, and golfers, a Justin Schultz signed picture!

Monday, June 3rd, 2013

Tim Hortons presents the Warriors 1st Annual Alumni Golf Tournament!

Registration is at 1pm. And a Shotgun Start at 2pm.

Followed by a Steak Dinner at 7:30-8pm.

For more information, or how to register/sponsor, contact Andrew Deans at andrew@westkelownawarriors.ca or phone 250-215-6304

(Just a few spots are available, so book now, and golf with all your favorite Warriors.



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

Dawson Commits to Eagles

Press Release


Surrey, BC - The Surrey Eagles are pleased to announce that defenceman Matthew Dawson (1996) has committed to play for the hockey club, beginning in the 2013-2014 season. The Delta native officially joins the Eagles after playing a role in Surrey's run to the RBC Cup this past season as an affiliate player.
 
"With the departure of some of our key blue liners from last season, we're excited to have Matthew join our club as a young puck moving defenceman," said Eagles Head Coach and General Manager Matt Erhart. "Matthew performed beyond his years during our run to the RBC Cup, and we're looking forward to him being a part of our team for the 2013-2014 season."
 
The 16-year-old played in five regular season games for the Birds in the 2012-2013 season before appearing in 13 games in the post-season including every game at the Western Canada Cup and the RBC Cup. Dawson, who is listed at 5'10 and 160 lbs, played for the Delta Ice Hawks of the PIJHL last year, posting two goals and 12 assists in 37 regular season games.
 
"I'm very excited," said Dawson of joining the Eagles. "I finished the year with the team, and that was a great experience, but now to officially be a part of the team and the family is a great feeling."
 
The Eagles would like to welcome Dawson to the organization.



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

Keefe contract extension exercised by Hounds

Press Release

The Soo Greyhounds Hockey Program is pleased to announce that they have exercised the contract extension option to Head Coach Sheldon Keefe.  The extension places Keefe behind the Hounds bench through the 2014-15 season.

Originally hired on December 3rd, 2012, the option on Sheldon’s contract was available until November 2013 but team ownership and management were proactive in ensuring his position with the club.

"I am very excited the our ownership has given me the go ahead to exercise the option on Sheldon's contract for 2014-2015. Over Sheldon's time as our Head Coach in the regular season and the playoffs we saw our team playing a very strong puck possession style and performed at a winning percentage of over 62%. All of that was done with Sheldon having just two days of practice before his first game at Windsor on December 6th” began Hounds GM Kyle Dubas.

"Sheldon and I have talked each day this off-season about the challenge ahead and how the two of us, along with Joe Cirella and our entire Hockey Operations team are going to ensure our Program continues to strive towards our goal of long-term, sustained success” continued Dubas.

Keefe, a Brampton, ON native, led the Hounds to a regular season record of 23-12-1-3 in 39 regular season games before advancing the Hounds to the post-season for the first time in three seasons.

"I'm incredibly grateful for the confidence that General Manager Kyle Dubas and our ownership group have shown in my ability to develop the program over the next two seasons" said Keefe.

"While that confidence helps make for an easier transition into Sault Ste. Marie for my young family it remains business as usual as I continue to be committed to maximizing every day to ensure we are prepared to build on the foundation we have worked to form over the last six months” explained Keefe.

After OHL and NHL careers, Keefe’s transition to the coaching ranks was highlighted with immediate success with his ownership, management and coaching of the Pembroke Lumber Kings which was topped  by a National championship.  His strength in communicating and motivating his players became an immediate impact in his tenure so far with the Hounds.

"All of the very best major junior hockey clubs in the Canadian Hockey League have strong stability in their coaching and management ranks. Excercising Sheldon's option is a very important step in our development as a program and I am very excited to see the results of Sheldon having an entire off-season and pre-season to be ready for 2013-2014” concluded Dubas.

Keefe also expressed the vital importance of stability with relation to his working relationship with Hounds General Manager, Kyle Dubas.
"The vision and leadership of the program begins with Kyle and it’s evident in speaking with our staff and players that everyone is anxious and hoping that Kyle's contract status is secured for a very long time” concluded the Hounds Head Coach.

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

Fighting Saints Name Matt Shaw Head Coach and GM

Press Release

  The Dubuque Fighting Saints have found a new leader. The team announced today that Matt Shaw has been named the club’s new Head Coach and General Manager. Shaw, 47, brings over 20 years of coaching experience to the Fighting Saints, and succeeds Jim Montgomery, becoming the team’s second head coach since the club’s return to the USHL in 2010. Shaw will arrive in Dubuque next week and be introduced at a press conference on Tuesday, June 4, at Noon at the Mystique Community Ice Center.

“I am very excited to join the Fighting Saints,” said Shaw. “In a short time, Dubuque has become a premier member of the USHL. You want to go to a place with a chance for success. The Fighting Saints ownership and management have shown they have that in place. With my past experience, I have been to all levels of hockey, but one area I think I can improve upon is my head coaching experience. I look forward to this challenge and am excited to get started.”

The Phoenix, Arizona native comes to Dubuque from the NHL’s New Jersey Devils where he spent the 2012-13 season as an assistant coach. His vast coaching experience includes spending the last six seasons in the NHL, working as a video coach with Minnesota in 2007-08 before joining the Wild staff as an assistant coach in 2008-09. Shaw served in the same role with the San Jose Sharks from 2009-12 before joining the Devils last season.

“Jim Montgomery had great success during his time with the Dubuque Fighting Saints and for that reason, he has left big shoes to fill,” said Brad Kwong, Managing Partner of Northern Lights Hockey, LLC.  “However, it is exactly that success that put Dubuque on the hockey map and has enabled us to attract a coaching talent like Matt Shaw.  Matt’s varied experience in NCAA hockey, the minor leagues and at the highest level of hockey, the NHL, is what made him the strongest candidate.  His development and evolution as a coach and his vision of how he wants his teams to play were honed while working with some of the finest coaches in the NHL.  Matt has worked with elite athletes, NHL stars, experience we believe will be integral in the development of every single player that dons the Dubuque Fighting Saints jersey.”

No stranger to the Tri-State area, Shaw enjoyed two stints as a coach with the Quad City Mallards, first serving as an assistant coach from 1995-97, and helping lead the team to 1997 Colonial Cup. After spending a year as the head coach of the ECHL’s Mobile Mystics in 1997-98 and working as an assistant coach for the IHL’s Chicago Wolves the following year, Shaw returned to the Mallards as the club’s head coach in 1999-00 and guided them to a 53-16-0 record, and a berth in the UHL Finals.

The following season Shaw joined the Houston Aeros of the IHL. Shaw was the club’s assistant coach for seven seasons, including their final year in the IHL in 2000-01. The team moved to the AHL in 2001, and became the primarily affiliate of the Minnesota Wild. Shaw helped guide the Aeros to the 2003 Calder Cup Championship, and worked four seasons under current San Jose Sharks Head Coach Todd McLellan. With the Aeros, Shaw also served as the team’s assistant general manager.

In addition to professional experience, Shaw has also spent time in the USHL and NCAA. As a player, Shaw skated in two seasons for the Sioux City Musketeers in the 1980’s, then advanced to the NCAA where he spent three seasons playing for United States International University before skating for one season at Colorado College. With the Tigers, the defenseman was an All-WCHA Honorable Mention honoree in 1988-89 during his lone season at Colorado College. Following his playing career, Shaw remained in Colorado Springs, starting his coaching career in 1989 with his alma matter as an assistant coach. He would spend three seasons behind the bench with Colorado College.

Shaw and his wife Caroline have two children­­, daughter Clare, and son Hayden, who spent last season playing defense at Woodbury High School in Minnesota and was a sixth round selection of the Waterloo Black Hawks in Phase II of the 2013 USHL Entry Draft.

Shaw takes over for Jim Montgomery who was named the head coach at the University of Denver on April 15. In three seasons, Montgomery guided the Fighting Saints to Clark Cup Championships in 2011 and 2013, and helped Dubuque claim the Anderson Cup this past season, leading the Fighting Saints to a franchise best 45-11-8 record. While Montgomery has advanced to the NCAA, he helped with the hiring process, has spoken with Shaw, and believes the Fighting Saints new coach will be able to continue the success already achieved.

“I was flattered to be part of the process,” said Montgomery. “No matter what, I am a ‘Saint for Life.’ Next year, I want to look at standings and see the Fighting Saints on top and continuing the success we had, so I wanted to help anyway I could.  I had an hour-long conversation with Matt Shaw on Sunday evening. We had a great conversation about hockey. It was clear he was articulate and intelligent, and understood how he wanted the Fighting Saints to grow as a team, and how he wanted to develop the players as young men. I think he will be great and bring a really exciting brand of hockey that will thrill fans for years to come.”

Shaw is well aware of the challenges presented by following up a coach that had the success Montgomery did, but he embraces it, and plans to use Montgomery to help continue the winning tradition.

“Jim Montgomery did a great job and put forth a great support system,” Shaw said. “I have big shoes to fill for sure, and I’ll have my work cut out for me, but I am looking forward to continuing that success. Jim will be my biggest resource moving forward. Once we both get some things settled, we will get together and talk more about the area, the team, and the league.”

The Fighting Saints Try-Out Camp opens Wednesday, June 5, with on-ice sessions slated to start Thursday, June 6. Shaw, along with Associate Head Coach Joe Coombs and Assistant Coach and Director of Scouting Mike Field, will oversee the camp. A full camp schedule and roster will be released next week.

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

Fresno Monsters relocate to Wenatchee to become the Wild

Press Release

The North American Hockey League (NAHL) has announced that the Fresno Monsters are reactivating and relocating their membership to Wenatchee, Washington and will play as the Wenatchee Wild beginning in the 2013-14 season. The team will play out of the Town Toyota Center, which had been home to the Wild for the past five seasons. The NAHL is the oldest and largest junior hockey league of its kind in the United States, with 24 teams representing 13 states.

The Town Toyota Center purchased the Wenatchee Wild name and logo from the previous ownership group, which relocated their NAHL membership to Hidalgo, Texas back on May 14th.  Fresno Owner/Governor David White then reactivated and relocated his membership to Wenatchee to serve as the new home for the NAHL club, which had been in Fresno the last three seasons.

White said his first experience at a Wild game at the Town Toyota Center was during the 2009-10 season and that he was instantly drawn to the atmosphere and support created by the fans.

“We fell in love with the whole environment up in Wenatchee when we attended a home game. From the reaction of the fans, to the venue, to the atmosphere on game day… it all played a part in leaving a lasting memory on us and ultimately deciding to relocate the team to Wenatchee when the opportunity presented itself,” said White.  “Our family still had a desire to give back to the players and remain involved, which is why we wanted to continue to operate a team. This is an important time in these young men’s lives and seeing the lasting impact it has on them makes it all worth it when we are able to give back to them and also to the communities we are all involved in.”

White said that he hopes to have a head coach and hockey/business operations staff in place by next week.

“The opportunity to keep Wenatchee as a member of the NAHL and USA Hockey is an important part of our vision for the Western part of the United States,” said Mark Frankenfeld, Commissioner of the North American Hockey League. “Despite all the challenges that exist geographically we are excited that this challenge is being taken head-on in order to provide NAHL hockey to some of the most passionate fans in the NAHL and one of the best venues in the country. We wish David White and the Wenatchee Wild continued success both on and off the ice.”

The Town Toyota Center complex in Wenatchee, Washington, is a multi-purpose facility containing a 4,200 seat main arena and a second permanent ice rink. It is located in the heart of North Central Washington in Wenatchee, Washington, and hosts world-class entertainment and high-impact sporting events as well as being the home of the NAHL’s Wenatchee Wild hockey team.

“The Town Toyota Center is ecstatic to continue to have an NAHL team in Wenatchee. We have an extremely passionate and educated fan base that has embraced the Wild and we are thrilled to bring them the same level of hockey that they have enjoyed and grown to love,” said Mark Miller, General Manager of the Town Toyota Center. “We are excited to maintain the same level of high-impact entertainment and quality of life that we have grown accustomed to the last five years. Our staff will strive to exceed all expectations as we launch into a new future.”

A presentation to and final approval by the USA Hockey junior council is expected in early June.  

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

Nanaimo Spring Camp Schedule

Press Release


5:00 pm Registration Cliff Mcnabb Arena you will receive your team assignment at this time
5:45 pm Coaching staff will address all participants
 
*Please note that if you wore a cage last year you must wear one in our camp
 
Friday
7:00 to 8:00 pm Team 1 vs Team 2
8:15 to 9:15 pm Team 3 vs Team 4
9:30 to 10:30 pm Team 5 vs Team 6
 
Saturday
12;30 to 1:30 pm Team 1 vs Team 3
1:45 to 2:45 pm Team 2 vs Team 5
3:00 to 4:00 pm Team 4 vs Team 6
4:15 to 5:15 pm Team 3 vs Team 5
5:30 to 6:30 pm Team 1 vs Team 6
6:45 to 7:45 pm Team 2 vs Team 4
 
Black and Orange game rosters for Sunday will be posted and all players not playing will have individual meetings with the coaching staff
 
Sunday
10:00 am to 12:00 pm Black and Orange All Star Game
Immediately after the game individual meetings with the coaching staff with priority given to those traveling off the Island
 
Skate sharpening will be available between games for a $5.00 
 

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

TIGERS PROSPECTS ON DISPLAY THIS WEEKEND

Press Release

Fans looking to get a glimpse at the future of the Medicine Hat Tigers should set their sights on the Family Leisure Centre this weekend, as the Tabbies welcome their newest prospects for a weekend Orientation Camp.

Each year the club hosts its prospects for a few days of presentations, conditioning and on-ice sessions geared to give the young players an introduction to the organization.

"It's an opportunity for us to get to know one another," says Tigers General Manager and Head Coach Shaun Clouston.  "For our newly drafted prospects, it's an introduction for the parents and the players to the Medicine Hat Tigers organization.  It also allows us to build relationships with our returning players, which is really important to our continuing success."

As Clouston mentioned, this will be the first interaction with the club for a number of the 33 hopefuls making their way to the Gas City this weekend, mostly the recently selected members of the 2013 Bantam Draft class (1998-born).  In addition to the new draft picks, the 1997-born group will be looking to crack the roster for the first time this season as 16-year-olds.  Finally, the attendees are rounded out by a handful of 1996-born prospects who are trying to state their case one more time for making the club as 17-year-olds.

"It really is an orientation, so we're here to answer any questions the families might have about our team, the league, educational opportunities and scholarships, nutrition and things like that," adds Clouston.  "It's a great weekend for all of us as we get to see the players and their families excited by the prospect of one day becoming Medicine Hat Tigers."

There are a number of sessions open to the public for Tigers fans looking to check out the new crop of players.  All events take place at the Family Leisure Centre at 2000 Division Ave NW in Crescent Heights.

Friday, May 31st:
4:00pm-5:00pm   Dry Land Training (FLC Soccer Field)
6:15pm-7:00pm   Goalie Session
7:15pm-8:30pm   Team White/Team Black Ice Session

Saturday, June 1st:
10:30am-11:30am   Dry Land Training (FLC Soccer Field)
2:15pm-3:00pm      Goalie Session
3:15pm-5:30pm      Ice Session (Scrimmage)


Sunday, June 2nd:
9:00am-11:00am    Ice Session (Scrimmage)

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

Ryan Tesink Case

Press Release

The Commissioner of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League, Gilles Courteau, rendered his decision today in the Ryan Tesink case.

The player in question was under the obligation, starting January 16, 2013, to stop playing for a period of two and a half (2 ½) months, depriving the Blainville-Boisbriand Armada of his contribution, considered important, for a very large part of the second half of the season, even though he returned to action afterwards.

Sea Dogs’ General Manager, Mike Kelly, relied on the reports and opinions that were given to him by specialists, when he signed, what we believe to be in good faith, the trade declaration on January 2, 2013.

To this point, the undersigned is of the opinion that the Saint John Sea Dogs’ integrity cannot be questioned.

It is however true that the form “Declaration for trade purposes” might leave room for interpretation and should, in the opinion of the Commissioner, be the object of a revision and even eventually bring the League to introduce a new by-law provision specifically pertaining to the obligation of disclosure.

The League shall re-evaluate its rules to avoid, similar situations from reoccurring, and, if need be, have an otherwise applicable mechanism.

Circumstances of the present case are exceptional and even constitute a first for the QMJHL.

This particular situation requires, according to the Commissioner, that a just and fair compensation be awarded to the Blainville-Boisbriand Armada.

After analysis of all the facts and submitted evidence, the QMJHL’s Commissioner has concluded the following:

The trade that took place on January 2, 2013 between the Saint John Sea Dogs and the Blainville-Boisbriand Armada remains in effect, so that the rights to player Ryan Tesink still belong to the Blainville-Boisbriand Armada and that the Saint John Sea Dogs keep the first (1st) round draft pick (3rd ranked choice) received in this trade;

The Blainville-Boisbriand Armada receives, as compensation for the herein-above mentioned reasons, a first (1st) round draft pick (5th rank choice added by the League), at the QMJHL annual draft to be held in June 2014, subject to the following;

In the event that the rights to player Ryan Tesink traded or transferred, the Blainville-Boisbriand Armada will then receive, instead of a fifth (5th) rank choice in the first (1st) round of the annual draft, an additional nineteenth (19th) rank choice added by the League, after the end of the first round of selection but before the beginning of the second (2nd) round of said annual draft of June 2014.

The commissioner of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League, Gilles Courteau, will make no other comments about this case.

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

O Handley Named Interim President

Press Release

Waterloo Black Hawks Head Coach and General Manager P.K. O’Handley will serve as the team’s interim president beginning immediately, the team announced Thursday.

Named the USHL’s 2011/12 General Manager of the Year last spring, O’Handley has led the Hawks’ hockey operations since 2002.  Previously through 2009, he was also concurrently the president of Northwest Sports, Inc., which managed the Black Hawks among several other sports and entertainment properties.  O’Handley’s experience with the business aspects of hockey date back to his first coaching opportunity in the USHL; during his tenure with the North Iowa Huskies from 1991 to 1998, he served not only as the franchise’s head coach, but also directed that organization’s marketing and ticketing efforts.

“The new state of the art video scoreboard and replay system we are working on this summer will provide our fans with a great, interactive experience at Black Hawk games,” said O’Handley regarding one of the most important projects he will be overseeing.  “It also is a unique and exciting opportunity for our corporate partners to enhance their presence in Young Arena.  We want the Black Hawks to continue to strive to be the standard of excellence in the USHL and our community.”

The Black Hawks have also promoted Erinn Lahmann from director of group sales to manager of business and ticket operations.  In her new role, she will oversee all season and individual ticket sales, manage the team’s day-to-day activities and box office staff, and be responsible for basic accounting functions. Lahmann joined the team in her original position prior to the 2010/11 season after graduating from Wartburg College in Waverly.

Thursday’s staff changes follow the resignation of Black Hawks President Doug Miller, who had been with the organization since 2001.  Originally serving as general manager of business operations, Miller was promoted in 2009.  Together, Miller and O’Handley led the franchise to eight consecutive years of increasing attendance, culminating with a team record 94,966 fans during the 2008/09 regular season.  During that span, the Black Hawks were the USHL’s Organization of the Year three times, in 2003, 2005, and 2007.

“Doug's contributions to the Black Hawks were tremendous,” O’Handley noted.  “He was an instrumental piece of the team that has brought the Black Hawks to new heights. We wish him well in his future endeavors.”

The Black Hawks anticipate the announcement of further staff developments in the coming weeks.

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

Miller wins Mickey Renaud Captain’s Award

Press Release

Toronto, ON – The Ontario Hockey League today announced that Colin Miller of the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds is the 2012-13 recipient of the Mickey Renaud Captain’s Trophy.

“It is a special honour to be awarded the Mickey Renaud Captains Trophy,” said Miller.  “I never had the privilege to meet or play against Mickey but I know he was a well respected captain and a great person.  To receive this in his memory is something I am very proud of.”

A three-year Greyhound and native of Sault Ste. Marie, the 20-year-old Miller was named team captain prior to the start of this season and was the backbone of the club that battled early season adversity and finished with a strong second half landing sixth in the Western Conference standings with 78 points.

"Having observed from the periphery the effect that Mickey Renaud's leadership had on the Windsor Spitfires and their evolution into back to back MasterCard Memorial Cup Champions, I know that the Renaud Family and the Spitfires will be proud to have a young leader like Colin Miller represent the award which bears Mickey's name and memory,” said Greyhounds General Manager Kyle Dubas.  “To have Colin Miller be named the recipient of the Mickey Renaud Captain's Trophy is the proudest moment that our organization has had in the time I have been here."

Miller was chosen for the award by a media selection committee as the OHL team captain that best exemplifies leadership on and off the ice, with a passion and dedication to the game of hockey and his community that Mickey demonstrated.  Nomination forms were submitted by OHL General Managers on behalf of their individual team captains.  The selection committee consisted of a panel of four, representing media from each OHL division.

"This first half of this season was fraught with many challenges both on and off the ice for our hockey club, and the leadership of Colin Miller was the steady force which helped guide our team to success in the second half of the season,” Dubas continued.  “When each challenge presented itself, not only did Colin refuse to waver in his commitment to the Greyhounds, he could also be counted on to help push our team forward.  During adversity, Colin would always lead by example to help us navigate through tough times.”

Miller began his OHL career as a free agent with the Greyhounds in 2010-11.  Named Sault Star Trophy winner as the team’s Unsung Hero in 2011-12, he was later selected in the fifth round of the 2012 NHL Draft by the Los Angeles Kings.  This season he produced career-high offensive numbers scoring 20 goals and 35 assists for 55 points in 54 games and was one of the team leaders in community event participation contributing more than 40 hours to various programs including the Greyhounds’ “Kewadin Cares” program visiting patients in all wards of the Sault Area Hospital.  Miller was also recognized by Western Conference Coaches as the Most Underrated Player this season, and finished third in league voting for Overage Player of the Year.

"Colin's leadership off the ice and in the community was matched by his combination of skill, tenacity, and leadership on the ice,” Dubas added.  “He played through injury, and produced at a level which placed him in the Top-five in OHL scoring among defencemen, and did so while playing the vast majority of his minutes at even strength versus the opposition's top players.  His leadership was vital to moving our program forward and his contributions are something that we will never forget.  It is a very proud moment to see him deservingly awarded with the Mickey Renaud Captain's Trophy."

Miller becomes the fifth recipient of the award following Andrew Agozzino of the Niagara IceDogs, Ryan Ellis of the Windsor Spitfires, John Kurtz of the Sudbury Wolves, and Chris Terry of the Plymouth Whalers who won the inaugural award for the 2008-09 season.

The Mickey Renaud Captain’s Trophy will be formally presented to Miller at the OHL Awards Ceremony on Tuesday June 4 at the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto. 

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

Nineteen goaltenders invited to eighth-annual Hockey Canada Program of Excellence goaltending camp

Press Release

CALGARY, Alta. – Hockey Canada, in partnership with the Canadian Hockey League, announced Thursday the 19 goaltenders that will attend the eighth-annual Program of Excellence goaltending camp taking place June 13-16 at the Markin MacPhail Centre at Canada Olympic Park in Calgary.

Thirteen goaltenders in the under-20 age category (candidates for Canada’s National Junior Team) and six in the under-18 category (candidates for Canada’s National Men’s Under-18 Team) will get the opportunity to work with a number of instructors during the four-day camp.
UNDER-20 GOALTENDERS
Antoine Bibeau Victoriaville, Que. Charlottetown (QMJHL)
François Brassard Gatineau, Que. Quebec (QMJHL)
Eric Comrie Edmonton, Alta. Tri-City (WHL)
Philippe Desrosiers St-Hyacinthe, Que. Rimouski (QMJHL)
Chris Driedger Winnipeg, Man. Calgary (WHL)
Zachary Fucale Rosemère, Que. Halifax (QMJHL)
Tristan Jarry Delta, B.C. Edmonton (WHL)
Austin Lotz St. Adolphe, Man. Everett (WHL)
Spencer Martin Oakville, Ont. Mississauga (OHL)
Matt Murray Thunder Bay, Ont. Sault Ste. Marie (OHL)
Jake Paterson Mississauga, Ont. Saginaw (OHL)
Mackenzie Skapski Abbotsford, B.C. Kootenay (WHL)
Brandon Whitney Centerville, N.S. Victoriaville (QMJHL)
     
UNDER-18 GOALTENDERS
Julio Billia St-Léonard, Que. Chicoutimi (QMJHL)
Alex Bureau Trois-Rivières, Que. Cape Breton (QMJHL)
Payton Lee Cranbrook, B.C. Vancouver (WHL)
Matt Mancina Lakeshore, Ont. Leamington (GOJHL)
Mason McDonald Halifax, N.S. Acadie-Bathurst (QMJHL)
Brent Moran Orleans, Ont. Niagara (OHL)

“We have had terrific success with this camp in its first seven years, and we are excited to have Canada’s best young goaltenders work with some of the top instructors in the game,” said Brad Pascall, Hockey Canada’s vice-president of hockey operations/national teams. “We want to give these young goaltenders every opportunity to develop and prepare for international competition, and we feel this camp is a step in the right direction.”

The camp will include both on-ice and off-ice sessions. David Marcoux (Hockey Canada) will lead a group of seven instructors: Sebastien Farrese (Belleville, OHL), Scott Gouthro (Cape Breton, QMJHL), Piero Greco (Kitchener, OHL), Dusty Imoo (Seattle, WHL), Marco Marciano (Blainville-Boisbriand, QMJHL), Dustin Schwartz (Edmonton, WHL) and Jimmy Waite (Chicoutimi, QMJHL).
The camp will be open to the public, free of charge.


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

Top BCHL officials honoured with Sutherland, Lazarowich awards

Press Release

The BCHL is proud to announce the recipients of the BCHL officiating awards for the 2012-2013 season.

The Kelly Sutherland Award and the Brad Lazarowich Award were created last year to recognize officiating excellence in the BCHL.

The Kelly Sutherland Award for the top referee is presented this year to Jeff Ingram. Jeff is a veteran referee in the BCHL who is currently a Level 6 official. He refereed the BCHL Fred Page Cup this year and was selected to referee in the Western Canadian Championships in Nanaimo, where he was assigned the final game between the Surrey Eagles and Brooks Bandits.

“Jeff is a quality referee and person.  He has been a top referee in the BCHL for many years and is committed to excellence both on and off the ice,” said BCHL Director of Officiating Derek Adams. “Jeff has acted as a mentor to our young referees and is a leader on our staff who sets the bar extremely high for the standard of how we want our games in the BCHL to be officiated”.

Jeff also referees in the WHL and CIS, and was selected to referee the CIS Championships in Saskatoon in 2013.

The Brad Lazarowich Award for the top linesman is presented to Bevan Mills. Bevan has been a linesman in the BCHL since 2004 and has worked the Fred Page Cup for the past four years. Bevan was also selected to officiate in the Western Canada Cup this year.

“The mark of a great linesman is one who makes the referee’s job easier because he works hard at being proactive in preventing situations from escalating. That’s what makes Bevan such a great linesmen” said Adams.  “Bevan is extremely professional and respectful both on and off the ice and is committed to making the officiating team the best team on the ice every night”.

Bevan is also a linesman in the AHL and WHL and was selected to work the 2013 Memorial Cup this year in Saskatoon.

“These awards are a testament to the commitment the BCHL Board of Governors has to recognizing and supporting the officiating program in the BCHL” said Adams. “I congratulate both Jeff and Bevan for receiving these awards, but I am extremely proud of everyone on our officiating staff. There are always going to be some tough games, but our staff consistently comes to the rink every night to work hard and officiate the game in a very fair and professional manner”. 

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

Thursday, May 30, 2013

BLAZERS' TIM BOZON SIGNS WITH CANADIENS

Press Release

MONTREAL – Montreal Canadiens general manager Marc Bergevin announced Thursday the signing of forward Tim Bozon to a three-year contract (2013-14 to 2015-16). As per club policy, financial terms of the agreement were not disclosed.

In 69 games with the WHL’s Kamloops Blazers in 2012-13, Bozon collected 91 points (36 goals, 55 assists). He scored 14 of his goals on the powerplay and added two shorthanded tallies. He ranked second on his team in goals (tied with J.C. Lipon) and points, while finishing third in assists. Bozon served 58 penalty minutes and led his team with a +37 plus/minus differential. He added six points (4 goals, 2 assists) in eight playoff contests. He completed his season by suiting up for Team France at the IIHF World Championship presented simultaneously in Stockholm and Helsinki, notching one helper in five games.

Bozon, 19, has recorded 162 points (72 goals, 90 assists) in 140 games in two seasons with Kamloops. The 6’01’’ and 185 lbs forward has served 98 penalty minutes and displays a +64 plus/minus differential.

A native of St. Louis, Missouri, Bozon was selected in the third round, 64th overall by the Canadiens at the 2012 NHL Entry Draft. He took part in the second part of the Canadiens’ development camp in June 2012.

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

NAHL’s Minnesota Wilderness announce coaching staff

Press Release

The Minnesota Wilderness, proud members of the North American Hockey League (NAHL), have announced the remainder of their coaching staff for the 2013-14 season.  Joining the staff as assistant coaches will be Dan Daikawa and Josh Petrich.  They will join Cloquet native Corey Millen, who was named the Wilderness head coach a few weeks ago.

“We are proud to have such a talented and experienced coaching staff. The addition of Dan and Josh added to Corey’s leadership to help make our organization one of the league leaders,” said Wilderness Owner and Governor Scott Thielen.

“We are very excited to have both Dan and Josh on our staff,” added Millen. “Dan has a big list of accomplishments as head coach in the NAHL and he was able to build a championship-caliber team in Jamestown in a short period of time. Josh is a familiar face having coached with me in the NAHL previously in Alaska.  He is a very hard worker and is eager to keep gaining experience as a coach.”

Daikawa was most recently the head coach and general manager of the NAHL’s Jamestown Ironmen for the past two seasons.  After missing the playoffs in 2011-12, Daikawa turned the Ironmen around in 2012-13, as they finished in 2nd place in the NAHL’s North Division during the regular season.  The Ironmen then went on to win the North Division Playoff title and secured a berth to the 2013 NAHL Robertson Cup National Championship Tournament, where they finished 4th.  In two years under Daikawa, the Ironmen posted a winning record of 56-55-9 and had 11 NCAA commitments.

“I had some good conversations leading up to this point with Scott and Corey and it felt like the right fit for me and my family at this time. Ultimately, that’s what my decision boiled down to and I look forward to working with a guy like Corey Millen, who has a lot of knowledge and experience behind the bench,” said Daikawa.  Daikawa, who is originally from Apple Valley, Minnesota, said that being able to come back to his home state also weighed heavily in his decision. “That was a big part of it too. There ia a lot of family and friends in the state, so to continue coaching in the NAHL and also move back to Minnesota was something I couldn’t pass up.” 

Petrich is in his second stint as an assistant coach in the NAHL, as he previously served as an assistant under Millen when both were with the Alaska Avalanche during the 2011-12 season.  During that season the Avalanche finished 3rd in the West Division standings with a 35-19-6 record and five players made NCAA commitments.  Last season, Petrich was the head coach for the Russell Stover 16U Tier I Midget Minor team based out of Overland Park, Kansas.

"I am very excited to join the Wilderness staff and get to work on building a championship caliber team,” said Petrich. “Getting to work with Corey again and now Dan, while getting to move back to the Northland, where I began my coaching career, is a dream come true. I would like to thank everyone at the Russell Stover organization. I am going to take everything I have learned there and bring it to try and help make the Wilderness the best place to play in the NAHL."

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

SILVERBACKS INTRODUCE NEW MAJORITY OWNER

Press Release

 The Salmon Arm SilverBacks are pleased to announce that the sale of the team has been finalized. After months of negotiating we are proud to announce the new Majority Owner of the SilverBacks.

Dale Unruh, Calgary, Alberta / Chairman, President & CEO Quality Group of Companies. Dale will become the Governor of the SilverBacks.

"Our group is extremely proud and grateful to be involved with the Salmon Arm Silverbacks and the Salmon Arm community at large. We passionately believe in supporting Salmon Arm and the North Okanagan region by investing in the Salmon Arm Silverbacks hockey team. The ownership group could not be happier that Troy Mick is a part owner and as a resident of the North Okanagan will be the local face of Salmon Arms Hockey Team. Go Backs Go!

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

Fighting Falcons Hire Nick Shackford As Director Of Playe

Press Release

PORT HURON, MI – The Port Huron Fighting Falcons, proud members of the North American Hockey League, are today announced the hiring of Nick Shackford as Director of Player Personnel. Shackford will attend this weekend’s Pre-Draft Tryout Camp in Mt. Clemens, Michigan.

The primary role of the Director of Player Personnel is to identify potential future players for the Fighting Falcons. Shackford will look at players in other junior leagues, as well as players at other levels who may have the ability to succeed in the NAHL. Shackford will be an instrumental part of the Fighting Falcons’ 2013 NAHL Draft

Shackford brings over three years of NAHL experience to the Fighting Falcons hockey operations staff. A native of Washington, DC, Shackford has spent two years as an assistant coach and Director of Player Personnel with the Kenai River Brown Bears, and one year in the same role with the now-defunct New Mexico Mustangs.

As a member of the staffs of the Brown Bears and Mustangs, Shackford recruited several players who advanced to the Tier 1 United States Hockey League, and many others who earned college commitments for their play.

“Nick is a great addition to our organization as we continue to do everything we can to prepare for the future,” said Michael Gershon, Head Coach and General Manager of the Port Huron Fighting Falcons. “He brings enough experience to know what makes a player successful at this level, and I know that everyone on our coaching staff and scouting staff looks forward to working with him to make this a great program moving forward.”

Shackford played three years for the Bay State Breakers of the Eastern Junior Hockey League before moving on to college hockey at SUNY-Cortland (New York) and St. Anselms College (New Hampshire).

Fans looking for the first glimpse at players who may join the Fighting Falcons this fall can attend the team’s Pre-Draft Camp this weekend at Mt. Clemens Ice Arena. More information, including the full schedule of games at the tryout camp, is available at the team’s website,  www.phfightingfalcons.com.

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

SPITS SIGN 2013 PICKS MURRAY & LUCHUK

Press Release

General Manager Warren Rychel announced today the club has signed another pair of picks from the 2013 OHL Priority Selection, as defenceman Liam Murray and centre Aaron Luchuk have agreed to OHL Contract and Standard Education Packages.

Murray (6', 175) was Windsor's 3rd Round selection, #43 overall in 2013. In 45 games with the Eastern Ontario Wild, he had 14 goals and 17 assists to go with 38 penalty minutes last season.

Luchuk (5'8, 182) was taken at #68 in the 4th Round after putting up 22 goals and 29 assists along with 14 penalty minutes in 36 games last season with the Greater Kingston Jr Frontenacs.

“We're pleased to have these two players signed,” Rychel said. “Murray is a solid two-way defender that has a real good presence on the ice. He's steady in all areas and displays outstanding leadership qualities.”

“Luchuk is a very smart player. Very creative with the puck. He makes great decisions and works extremely hard off the ice."

"We look forward to having both these boys playing for the Windsor Spitfires for a long time to come.”

Both Murray and Luchuk will be among 31 players participating in the 2013 Windsor Spitfires Mini-Camp on Friday, May 31st and Saturday, June 1st.
On-ice sessions, which are open to the public, go from 2 to 4 pm on Friday and 8 to 10 am on Saturday.

Both sessions will on the AM800 CLKW rink. Spectators are asked to enter through the Community Rinks entrance.

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

Groulx & Landry return to Gatineau

Press Release

Gatineau, May 30 2013 - The Gatineau Olympiques wish to  confirm that Eric Landry will be the assistant-coach in replacement of Guy Lalonde.  Eric joined the Olympiques’ coaching staff last  season and will see his reponsibilities increase.

After his junior career with the St. Hyacinthe Laser of the QMJHL. He played professional hockey during seventeen (17) seasons in the American Hockey League, the National Hockey League, the KHL and in Switzerland.

Furthermore, the Olympiques confirm that Mr. Benoît Groulx will be back with the team for a fourth (4) consecutive season, an eleventh (11) in the last thirtheen (13). 

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

Player Rosters Announced For 2013 Allstate All-Canadians Mentorship Camp

Press Release

Toronto, Ontario (May 29, 2013) - The National Hockey League Players’ Association (NHLPA) announced today the names of 42 selected bantam-aged players who will participate in the third annual Allstate All-Canadians Mentorship Camp. Hosted by NHL players under the leadership of 21-year NHL veteran Gary Roberts, the invitation-only camp will be held at the Hershey Centre in Mississauga, Ontario from August 6th to 10th, 2013. The intensive five-day camp will conclude with the Allstate All-Canadians Mentorship Cup – an inter-squad exhibition game – on Saturday, August 10th at 1:00 p.m. ET, broadcast on TSN. Tickets to the exhibition game are available through the program’s website www.allcanadians.com.

“The NHLPA has made a strong commitment to sharing the Players’ knowledge and experience with Canada's youth through the Allstate All-Canadians program. This is our third year in working to develop a program that will help educate not only the 42 bantam-aged players that are directly involved, but also parents and young hockey players across the country,” said Mathieu Schneider, NHLPA Special Assistant to the Executive Director. “The NHL Players and the ambassadors involved are true professionals and have an enormous amount of experience to share through this program.”

Players attending the five-day Allstate All-Canadians Mentorship Camp will learn the necessary steps to support budding hockey skills through fundamental factors including appropriate nutrition, fitness, on-ice training and mental skills – the four pillars of hockey development identified by the NHLPA’s Allstate All-Canadians Mentorship Program. Throughout the camp, the participants and their families will have the opportunity to learn from some of the NHL’s brightest stars, as well as camp ambassadors such as Dr. Paul Dennis (Sport Psychologist), Dave Lewis (NHL Assistant Coach), and renowned off-ice training expert, Gary Roberts.

“Each year I look forward to sharing my story and experiences throughout my 21-year NHL career and the role that fitness and nutrition played in my success,” said Gary Roberts. “I feel strongly about the importance of educating young players and their families about developing skill sets that will improve performance both on and off the ice and advance them to the next level in their careers and I look forward to continuing this tradition.” “We’re proud to support the Allstate All-Canadians Mentorship program along with the NHLPA, giving young players the opportunity to work alongside NHL pros and industry experts to learn valuable on-ice hockey skills in addition to off-ice life lessons – including leadership, teamwork and perseverance,” said John O’Donnell, President and CEO of Allstate Insurance Company of Canada. “Learning from professionals early in their careers will better position these young players to be successful and achieve their goals.”

Last year’s camp featured 22 first-round draft picks from the OHL and WHL, including first overall picks Connor McDavid (OHL - 2012), Travis Konecny (OHL - 2013), and Mathew Barzal (WHL - 2012). The QMJHL draft is set to take place on June 8th, 2013, and will feature 8 eligible All-Canadians players from 2012, including, Nicolas Roy, the number one rated prospect by QMJHL Central Scouting.

The following players have been selected for this year’s Allstate All-Canadians Mentorship Camp:

Allstate All-Canadians Mentorship Camp Player Selections by Region
British Columbia

Position
Name
Hometown
Current Team
D
ANDERSON, Josh
Duncan, BC
Cowichan Valley Capitals Bantam Tier 1
D
FABBRO, Dante
Coquitlam, BC
Burnaby Winter Club Bruins Bantam Tier 1
F
KOCH, Davis
Penticton, BC
Okanagan Hockey Academy Bantam
F
MALENSTYN, Beck
Delta, BC
Okanagan Hockey Academy Bantam
Alberta

Position
Name
Hometown
Current Team
F
BENSON, Tyler
Edmonton, AB
Edmonton SSAC Lions Bantam AAA
D
CLAGUE, Kale
Lloydminster, AB
Lloydminster Heat Bantam AAA
F
DUBE, Dillon
Cochrane, AB
Notre Dame Hounds Midget AA
F
JOST, Tyson
Leduc, AB
Kelowna Pursuit of Excellence Bantam Tier 1
D
MAHURA, Josh
St. Albert, AB
St. Albert Sabres Bantam AAA
D
McKINSTRY, Ryely
Calgary, AB
Calgary Bisons Bantam AAA
D
QUENNEVILLE, David
Edmonton, AB
Edmonton SSAC Lions Bantam AAA
G
SKINNER, Stuart
Edmonton, AB
Edmonton SSAC Lions Bantam AAA
F
STEEL, Sam
Sherwood Park, AB
Sherwood Park Flyers Bantam AAA
F
STEENBERGEN, Tyler
Sylvan Lake, AB
Red Deer Rebels Bantam AAA
Saskatchewan

Position
Name
Hometown
Current Team
F
ELDER, Kaden
Saskatoon, SK
Notre Dame Hounds Midget AA
Manitoba

Position
Name
Hometown
Current Team
F
HOWDEN, Brett
Oakbank, MB
Eastman Selects Midget AAA
F
KASPICK, Tanner
Brandon, MB
Brandon Wheat Kings Midget AAA
G
KUBIC, Ryan
St. Andrews, MB
Winnipeg Hawks Bantam AAA
F
PATRICK, Nolan
Winnipeg, MB
Winnipeg Hawks Bantam AAA
Ontario

Position
Name
Hometown
Current Team
F
ANG, Jonathan
Markham, ON
Markham Waxers Minor Midget AAA
F
BITTEN, William
Ottawa, ON
Ottawa Jr. 67s Bantam AAA
F
FELHABER, Tye
Pembroke, ON
Ottawa Valley Titans Bantam AAA
G
LaFONTAINE, Jack
Mississauga, ON
Don Mills Flyers Minor Midget AAA
D
LUCE, Griffin
St. Thomas, ON
Elgin-Middlesex Chiefs Bantam AAA
F
MASCHERIN, Adam
Maple, ON
Toronto Jr. Canadiens Bantam AAA
F
McLEOD, Michael
Mississauga, ON
Toronto Marlboros Bantam AAA
D
METE, Victor
Woodbridge, ON
Toronto Jr. Canadiens Bantam AAA
F
MIZZI, Joseph
Unionville, ON
Toronto Marlboros Bantam AAA
G
RAAYMAKERS, Joseph
Chatham, ON
Chatham-Kent Cyclones Bantam AAA
F
SAIGEON, Brandon
Grimsby, ON
Hamilton Jr. Bulldogs Minor Midget AAA
F
SICOLY, Nicholas
Sault Ste. Marie, ON
Soo Thunder Minor Midget AAA
D
SMITH, Jeremy
Toronto, ON
Toronto Marlboros Bantam AAA
Quebec

Position
Name
Hometown
Current Team
F
BRUSHETT, Ryan
Verdun, PQ
Verdun/Lasalle Cobras Bantam AA
D
CAMPOLI, Michael
Pointe Claire, PQ
West Island Royals Bantam AA
D
GIRARD, Samuel
Roberval, PQ
Espoirs Lac St-Jean Bantam AA
G
HARVEY, Sam
Alma, PQ
Espoirs Lac St-Jean Bantam AA
F
LAUZON, Felix
Roxton Pond, PQ
Cantonniers de Magog Midget AAA
F
MOREAU, Hunter
Dollard des Ormeaux, PQ
West Island Royals Bantam AA
Nova Scotia

Position
Name
Hometown
Current Team
F
BALMAS, Mitchell
Sydney, NS
Breton Sport Cougars Bantam AAA
G
FITZPATRICK, Evan
Lower Sackville, NS
Newbridge Senators Bantam AAA
D
GREEN, Luke
Hammonds Plains, NS
Bedford Barons Bantam AAA
F
O’LEARY, Michael
Halifax, NS
Halifax Hawks Bantam AAA


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