Thursday, October 31, 2013

Weegar Out 2-4 Weeks

Press Release

Mooseheads General Manager Cam Russell announced this afternoon that defenceman MacKenzie Weegar will miss the next 2-4 weeks with an ankle sprain.  The 19 year old sustained the injury during a 5-2 loss in Gatineau last night.  Weegar has 3 goals and 13 assists in 18 games for the Mooseheads this season.

The Mooseheads next game is on the road tomorrow night in Rouyn-Noranda at 8:30 AST.


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

Watch U16 Challenge Cup Live Online

Press Release

Calgary, AB – The top 1998-born players from across western Canada will be showcasing their skills this weekend as the 2013 Western Canada Under-16 Challenge Cup begins Thursday, October 31, 2013, at Father David Bauer arena in Calgary, AB.

The Western Canada U-16 Challenge Cup is the creation of the four western provincial hockey associations, in partnership with the Western Hockey League.  The tournament, now in its fourth year, sees 80 of the top prospects from Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta and British Columbia battle it out for western Canadian supremacy.

All games during the four-team round-robin tournament will be streamed LIVE online through the WHL’s streaming internet partner NeuLion. Single games and all access packages are available.
All-Access Tournament Online Pass - $44.95
Single Game Online Pass - $6.99

CLICK HERE to purchase


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

Brace traded to Belleville

Press Release

Owen Sound Attack General Manager Dale DeGray is announcing that forward Cameron Brace has been traded to the Belleville Bulls in exchange for a 2nd Round Draft Pick in 2017 and a 4th Round Draft Pick in 2014.

Brace, an overage forward was in his 5th season with the Attack suited up in 223 regular season games over that time. The Toronto native tallied 160 points during his time here and also scored one of the biggest goals in franchise history when he notched the overtime winner in Game 4 of the Ontario Hockey League Championship series against the Mississauga St. Michael’s Majors.

 “Cameron has accomplished a lot in an Attack uniform and we wish to thank him for his efforts on and off the ice.”, said Attack General Manager Dale DeGray. “We wish Cameron nothing but the best as he moves on to his new team in Belleville.”

 Cameron’s move to Belleville mean that the Attack now have three overage players on their roster.

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

Rebels trim Roster

Press Release

RED DEER, AB – Brent Sutter, General Manager/Head Coach of the Red Deer Rebels Hockey Club, announced today the reassignment of 16-year old defenceman Austin Shmoorkoff to Edmonton’s Canadian Athletic Club of the Alberta (AAA) Midget Hockey League.

 Shmoorkoff has played in 6 games this season; he has 0 points and 2 penalty minutes.  

 Also announced today, 17-year old goaltender Rylan Toth has been returned to the Battlefords Stars of the Saskatchewan (AAA) Midget Hockey League.

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

Spruce Kings acquire Mike Iovanna from the Vernon Vipers

Press Release sent to the World of Junior of Hockey

PRINCE GEORGE, BC – The Prince George Spruce Kings of the British Columbia Hockey League (BCHL) have completed a trade with the Vernon Vipers of the BCHL to acquire 1994 born forward, Mike Iovanna in exchange for future considerations.

Mike Iovanna is a 5’ 09” 160 lbs right handed forward from Middleton, Massachusetts who has a NCAA Division I commitment to the University of Massachusetts Amerherst for the 2015-16 season. Iovanna was a standout playing at Malden Catholic High School where he registered 15 goals and 27 assists in 22 games.

"We are excited to acquire Mike," said Spruce Kings General Manager, Mike Hawes. "He is a skilled, shifty forward with tremendous offensive potential. He had put up good offensive numbers in high school in Massachusetts and he will be given every opportunity to do the same thing with us."

The player transaction became necessary with the injury to Bryant Christian last weekend that is expected to sideline the team’s captain for six to eight weeks. Jake LeBrun is expected to be out of the lineup for two more weeks. Mitch Barker has also been added to the injured list and will miss both games this weekend.

"It's very unfortunate that two long term injuries have forced us to make a few changes but that's hockey sometimes," added Hawes. "I know (Mike Iovanna) will come in here and work very hard and his tremendous character will be a good fit with our tight knit group of players."

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

Canada East roster announced for 2013 World Junior A Challenge

Press Release

Canada East Roster

 OAKVILLE, Ont. – Hockey Canada, in partnership with the Canadian Junior Hockey League, announced Wednesday the 22 players that will represent Canada East at the 2013 World Junior A Challenge, Nov. 4-10 in Yarmouth. N.S.

The roster was chosen by Canada East head coach Ian MacInnis (Cornwall, CCHL), along with assistant coaches Mario Cicchillo (Toronto, OJHL), Peter Goulet (Nepean, CCHL) and Marc Lafleur (Kirkland Lake, NOJHL), and team manager Derek Blais (Hockey Canada) following a four-day selection camp at the Sixteen Mile Sports Complex in Oakville.

Players named to the Canada East roster were selected from the CJHL’s five eastern Junior A leagues: the Northern Ontario Junior Hockey League (NOJHL), Ontario Junior Hockey League (OJHL), Central Canada Hockey League (CCHL), Ligue de hockey junior AAA du Québec (LHJAAAQ) and Maritime Hockey League (MHL).

“It has been an exciting four days in Oakville, and as we expected there were some tough decisions to get down to 22 players,” said MacInnis. “As a coaching staff we’re confident we’ve assembled the best roster, and we’re looking forward to getting to Yarmouth and getting started.”

“I am sure that each player would tell you that it is an honour to wear the Team Canada sweater and these players have certainly earned the opportunity to represent their country,” said Kirk Lamb, president of the CJHL.

The Canada East roster includes:

    two goaltenders, seven defencemen and 13 forwards;
    10 players from the OJHL, eight players from the CCHL, three players from the MHL, and one player from the LHJAAAQ;
    three players returning from the 2011 World Junior A Challenge (Evans, Quince, Soucier).

Canada East will play in Group A during the 2013 World Junior A Challenge, joined by Russia and the United States, while Canada West, the Czech Republic and Switzerland will comprise Group B.

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

Stampede forward commits to University of Denver

Press Release

 Sioux Falls Stampede forward Logan O’Connor has committed to play collegiate hockey at the University of Denver following his USHL career.

O’Connor is playing his first season in the USHL and has appeared in all 12 games for the Stampede.  He recorded his first USHL point, an assist, in his USHL debut on September 21st during a 6-4 win over the Des Moines Buccaneers.  It is the first season with the Stampede for the 17-year-old after being selected in Phase Two of the 2013 USHL Draft.  The Calgary, Alberta native played for the Calgary Royals AAA program prior to coming to the USHL.

Three other current USHL players are committed to the University of Denver, including Dylan Gambrell (Dubuque Fighting Saints), Garrett Gamez (Tri-City Storm), and Jared Fiegl (Team USA).

The University of Denver Pioneers are a member of the newly-formed National Collegiate Hockey Conference (NCHC) and are led by first-year head coach Jim Montgomery who spent the previous three seasons coaching the Dubuque Fighting Saints.  A total of 16 USHL alumni are on the roster for the Pioneers this season; Garrett Allen (Des Moines/Chicago/Fargo), Grant Arnold (Green Bay Gamblers), Will Butcher (Team USA), Josiah Didier (Cedar Rapids RoughRiders), Daniel Doremus (Sioux Falls Stampede), Brad Hawkinson (Lincoln Stars), Evan Janssen (Dubuque Fighting Saints), Zac Larraza (Team USA), Ty Loney (Youngstown Phantoms), David Makowski (Green Bay Gamblers), Trevor Moore (Tri-City Storm), Emil Romig (Indiana Ice), Quentin Shore (Team USA), Matt Tabrum (Omaha/Sioux Falls), Matt Van Voorhis (Sioux Falls Stampede), and Nolan Zajac (Omaha/Cedar Rapids).

(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 seventh edition of the BMO CHL Top 10 Rankings for the 2013-14 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 7

Rank:
Team:
Last Week Rank:
Number of Weeks Ranked:
1
Blainville-Boisbriand Armada (13-1-1-0)
1
6
2
Guelph Storm (12-3-0-0)
7
7
3
Spokane Chiefs (11-4-0-0)
3
5
4
Baie-Comeau Drakkar (12-4-0-2)
9
4
5
Erie Otters (12-2-1-0)
-
1
6
Portland Winterhawks (11-3-0-1)
-
4
7
Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds (11-1-0-2)
-
1
8
Halifax Mooseheads (12-7-0-0)
-
1
9
Seattle Thunderbirds (11-3-0-2)
8
3
10
Oshawa Generals (11-3-0-1)
10
2
       
  Honourable Mention:
   
  Everett Silvertips (10-2-2-0)
-
0
  Kelowna Rockets (9-2-0-2)
-
2
  Gatineau Olympiques (12-6-0-0)
-


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

Rangers and Wolves complete trade

Press Release

Kitchener Rangers General Manager Murray Hiebert announced Wednesday that the team has completed a trade with the Sudbury Wolves. 

In the deal, the Rangers send goaltender Jack Moylan to Sudbury, in exchange for a 15th round pick in the 2014 Ontario Hockey League Priority Selection.

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

MOOSE JAW WARRIORS: Fioretti Named Captain

Press Release

 Moose Jaw Warriors General Manager Alan Millar and Head Coach Mike Stothers have announced that Sam Fioretti has been named the team’s Captain, while Travis Brown, Brayden Point, and Tanner Eberle will serve as Alternate Captains.

Fioretti is in his final season in the Western Hockey League, all of which has been spent in a Warriors uniform.  Last season Fioretti led the Warriors with 32 goals and 75 points and shared team MVP honours, he also played two games for Team WHL in the 2012 Subway Super Series.  In 17 games this season he has four goals and 12 points.

Brown was selected by the Warriors in the fourth round of the 2009 WHL Bantam Draft.  In his rookie season, 2011-2012, he led the Warriors defence in scoring with 24 assists and 31 points.  Brown currently leads the Warriors in scoring with six goals, 15 assists, and 21 points in 17 games.  He was drafted by the Chicago Blackhawks in the fifth round of the 2012 NHL Entry Draft, he attended his first pro-camp in September.

Eberle was the Warriors final pick in the 2009 WHL Bantam Draft, he was selected in the seventh round, 154th overall.  In his rookie season, 2011-2012, Eberle had ten goals, 28 points, and 82 penalty minutes.  So far this season he has four goals, nine points, and 34 penalty minutes in 17 games.  Eberle attended the Montreal Canadiens 2013 Rookie Camp in September.

Point was selected by the Warriors 14th overall in the 2011 WHL Bantam Draft.  He made his debut at the end of the 2011-2012 regular season, he remained with the team for the 2012 WHL Playoffs where he had seven goals and ten points in 14 games.  Point had 24 goals and 57 points last year and was named the Warriors Rookie of the Year.  This season he has seven goals and 13 points in 17 games.  Point was also apart of Canada’s team that won gold at the 2013 Memorial of Ivan Hlinka Tournament, he was named Canada’s game MVP in the gold medal game.

Fioretti, Brown, Eberle, and Point will wear their letters tonight when the team travels into Regina to play the Pats.

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

Affiliate Collin Peters Joins the Lumberjacks for the Weekend

Press Release

MUSKEGON, Michigan (October 30th) – The Muskegon Lumberjacks have announced that affiliate Forward Collin Peters will join the team for this weekend’s pair of games at Dubuque on Friday and at home against Cedar Rapids on Saturday as Connor Hurley leaves the team for the 2013 World Junior A Challenge that begins next week.

Peters, the Sheboygan, Wisconsin native, was drafted by the Lumberjacks in the seventh-round (98th overall) during the 2013 USHL Phase One Draft.  This season, Peters is playing for the Milwaukee Jr. Admirals Under-16 Midget Minor Team and has recorded 19 points (11 goals and 8 assists) in 15 games played.

Prior to joining the Milwaukee Jr. Admirals, Peters played the last two seasons with Sheboygan (Wisconsin) High School totaling 88 points (53 goals and 35 assists) in 50 games played.

Connor Hurley will be playing for Team USA during this year’s World Junior A Challenge that takes place November 4-10th in Yarmouth, Nova Scotia and features five other teams in Canada West, Canada East, Russia, Switzerland, and the Czech Republic.  Before the tournament begins, Team USA will play in an exhibition game this Saturday against Canada West at 6:00 pm.

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

Wednesday, October 30, 2013

Sea Dogs Name Ross Yates New Head Coach

Press Release

SAINT JOHN - The Saint John Sea Dogs are pleased to announce Ross Yates has been named the team's head coach.

Terms of the agreement between the Sea Dogs and Yates are not disclosed.

Yates, 54, has been an assistant coach with the Sea Dogs for the last two seasons.

Prior to joining Saint John, the Montreal native spent four seasons as the head coach of the Syracuse Crunch of the American Hockey League between 2006 and 2010. He was also an assistant coach with the Crunch for six seasons, and has coaching experience in Europe.

Yates played centre for five years with Mount Allison University beginning in 1976. His on-ice professional career included time in the AHL and in Europe, as well as seven games with the NHL's Hartford Whalers during the 1983-84 season.

"We are very pleased to have Ross Yates as our coach," said Sea Dogs' President Wayne Long. "He has an impressive coaching background in Europe and the American League, and he was brought here because of his extensive experience."

Yates will also serve as co-general manager, along with the team's head scout, Christian Vermette.

Vermette is a former assistant coach with Rouyn-Noranda Huskies who joined the Sea Dogs' scouting staff in 2005. He also coached the Levis Commandeurs in Quebec Midget AAA Hockey League.

He is in his fourth season as the Sea Dogs' head scout.

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

Brace Suspended for Eight Games

Press Release

The Owen Sound Attack is announcing that overage forward Cameron Brace has been suspended eight games by the Ontario Hockey League for a hit that took place last Friday in Plymouth.

The incident took place at the 1:58 mark of the first period and Cameron was assessed a two minute minor for checking to the head on the play.

Brace is eligible to return on November 16th when the Attack host Oshawa.


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

Wiitala Bound for Ohio State

Press Release

Still at the outset of his second season in junior hockey, Waterloo Black Hawks forward John Wiitala has committed to play college hockey for Ohio State University, the Hawks announced Wednesday.

Through seven appearances this season, the Lakeville, Minnesota native has recorded three assists.  Wiitala had six goals and five assists while playing in 51 games as a USHL rookie in 2012/13.  Voted the co-winner of the team’s Most Improved Player award by his teammates in 2012/13, Wiitala is part of the Hawks’ leadership team this season.

“John brings great character and work ethic to the rink,” said Black Hawks Head Coach P.K. O’Handley.  “I am very happy for him personally and look forward to watching him develop his game this winter.”

Wiitala is the 12th member of the 2013/14 Black Hawks to secure an NCAA Division college commitment.  He is the first member of this season’s Waterloo squad to choose a Big Ten university.  Current Buckeye forwards Matt Johnson and Anthony Greco spent time with the Black Hawks during their junior hockey careers.

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

Harvard Beckons Hawks Horton

Press Release

Already the bearer of a reputation for academic excellence, Waterloo Black Hawks forward Jake Horton has selected Harvard University as the place where his studies and hockey career will take him next, the Black Hawks announced Wednesday.

Last spring, the Lake Elmo, Minnesota native was recognized as the co-winner of the United States Hockey League’s Scholar-Athlete Award.  He was also a valedictorian at Waterloo West High School.  On the ice, Horton has appeared in 40 regular season games since debuting for the Black Hawks in November of 2011.  In that time, he has notched 11 goals and 12 assists.  During the early weeks of the current campaign, Horton is averaging better than a point per game, with two goals and six assists in seven contests.

“Jake’s hard work in the classroom and on the ice has opened doors for him,” said Black Hawks Head Coach P.K. O’Handley.  “Hard work will carry him to more success as a hockey player, as a student, and long after he has moved on in his life from being either of those things.”

There are now 13 Black Hawks who have formally announced their future college plans.  Among that group, Horton’s teammate Alec McCrea is also committed to skate for the Crimson.  Tim Lappin will attend rival Ivy League institution Brown University.

Horton and McCrea will be reunited with former Black Hawks teammate Victor Newell at Harvard.  Newell is a freshman at the school in Cambridge, Massachusetts, this fall.

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

Robbie DeMontis Commits to Yale

Press Release

MUSKEGON, Michigan (October 30th) – The Muskegon Lumberjacks are proud to announce that Forward Robbie DeMontis has made his college commitment to play for the Bulldogs of Yale University out of the ECAC following his junior career.

DeMontis, the Kleinburg, Ontario native, was drafted by the Lumberjacks in the 19th-round (278th overall) during the 2013 USHL Phase Two Draft and is currently in his first season with Muskegon.  This season, DeMontis has tallied six assists in 12 regular season games played.

“The coaching staff (at Yale) is unbelievable, and they are focused on helping their players develop and get better.  That is something that is very important to me,” said DeMontis.  “Also, the opportunity to play for a great hockey program as well as getting a world class education was something I couldn’t pass up.  I couldn’t be more excited to join Yale’s program, and I think it’s the perfect fit for me.”

Before arriving in Muskegon, DeMontis spent last season with The Hill Academy in Vaughan, Ontario totaling 122 points (47 goals and 75 assists) to go along with a plus-76 rating in 64 games played.  Prior to playing with The Hill Academy, DeMontis played for the Vaughan Kings Minor Midget AAA Team during the 2011-12 season recording 41 points (14 goals and 27 assists) in 47 games played.
 
 (Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)

Ice Duo Makes College Commitments

Press Release

 Two Indiana Ice players have recently secured their college hockey futures as forward Jacob Pritchard has committed to St. Lawrence University and defenseman Matt Roy has committed to Michigan Tech University.

Pritchard has collected seven points (4g, 3a) and a plus-three rating over nine games for the Ice this season.  Two of his goals this season have been game-winners.  He scored his first USHL goal during the third game of the season for Indiana, a 5-3 loss to Team USA, and then followed up the next night with a three-point performance (2g, 1a), including the game-winning goal, in the 4-1 win over Team USA.

The 18-year-old from Macomb, Michigan first broke into the USHL during the 2011-12 season playing two games for the Youngstown Phantoms.  He then played four games last season for Team USA.

Five other current USHL players are committed to St. Lawrence University; Michael Marnell (Des Moines Buccaneers), R.J. Gicewicz (Green Bay Gamblers), Ryan Lough (Green Bay Gamblers), Kyle Hayton (Sioux City Musketeers), and Nolan Gluchowski (Tri-City Storm).

St. Lawrence is a member of the ECAC and has 10 USHL alumni on the roster this season; Eric Sweetman (Youngstown Phantoms), Gavin Bayreuther (Fargo/Cedar Rapids), Woody Hudson (Chicago/Indiana), Drew Smolcynski (Chicago/Indiana), Brian Ward (Tri-City Storm), Chris Martin (Indiana Ice), Gunnar Hughes (Waterloo Black Hawks), Patrick Raley (Chicago Steel), Justin Bruckel (Lincoln/Cedar Rapids), and Alexander Dahl (Youngstown Phantoms).

Roy has dished out two assist and a posted an even plus/minus rating over five games this season for the Ice.  He first appeared with Indiana last season and recorded three points (1g, 2a) in 10 games of USHL action.

Seven other USHL players are committed to Michigan Tech; Mark Auk (Cedar Rapids RoughRiders), Dylan Steman (Cedar Rapids RoughRiders), Jake Jackson (Des Moines Buccaneers), Brett Boeing (Dubuque Fighting Saints), Tristan Rostagno (Muskegon Lumberjacks), Joe Schuldt (Sioux Falls Stampede), and Joel L’Esperance (Tri-City Storm).

Michigan Tech is a member of the WCHA and has 13 USHL alumni on the roster this season; Pheonix Copley (Des Moines/Tri-City), C.J. Eick (Green Bay Gamblers), Ryan Furne (Green Bay Gamblers), Tyler Heinonen (Chicago/Muskegon), David Johnstone (Indiana Ice), Jacob Johnstone (Sioux Falls/Green Bay), Tanner Kero (Fargo Force), Chris Leibinger (Waterloo/Muskegon), Blake Pietila (Team USA), Dan Sova (Waterloo Black Hawks), Reid Sturos (Omaha Lancers), Max Vallis (Omaha Lancers), and Cliff Watson (Sioux City Musketeers).

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

Canada West roster announced for 2013 World Junior A Challenge

Press Release

Canada West Roster

CALGARY, Alta. – Hockey Canada, in partnership with the Canadian Junior Hockey League, announced Wednesday the 22 players that will represent Canada West at the 2013 World Junior A Challenge, Nov, 4-10 in Yarmouth, N.S.

The roster was selected by Canada West head coach Jason McKee (Spruce Grove, AJHL), along with assistant coaches Trent Cassan (Yorkton, SJHL) and Ryan Smith (Selkirk, MJHL), and team manager Shawn Bullock (Hockey Canada) following a four-day selection camp at the Markin MacPhail Centre in Calgary.

Players named to the Canada West selection camp roster were selected from the CJHL’s five western Junior A leagues: the British Columbia Hockey League (BCHL), Alberta Junior Hockey League (AJHL), Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League (SJHL), Manitoba Junior Hockey League (MJHL) and Superior International Junior Hockey League (SIJHL).

“Canada West has a proud tradition at the World Junior A Challenge, and we’re confident this group of players will continue that tradition,” said McKee. “These 22 young men earned their spots on the roster, and we believe they will represent western Canada well in Yarmouth.”

“It is a tremendous achievement for these players to get to this point, and pulling the Team Canada jersey over their head is something that they will remember for years to come,” said Kirk Lamb, president of the CJHL.

The Canada West roster includes:
  • two goaltenders, seven defencemen and 13 forwards;
  • 11 players from the AJHL, 10 players from the BCHL, and one player from the SJHL;
  • two players returning from the 2012 World Junior A Challenge (Keats, Stoykewych);
  • one player selected at the 2013 NHL Entry Draft (Birks – Pittsburgh, 6th round, 164th overall).
Canada West will play in Group B during the 2013 World Junior A Challenge, joined by the Czech Republic and Switzerland, while Canada East, Russia and the United States will comprise Group A.
Preliminary round play will run until Wednesday, Nov. 6, with both semifinals taking place Friday, Nov. 8. The gold medal game, which will be shown nationally on TSN/RDS, the official broadcasters of Hockey Canada, is set for Sunday, Nov. 10 (check your local listings). All preliminary round games, quarter-finals, semifinals and the bronze medal game can be seen live via webcast through www.hockeycanada.ca.


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

29 players named to Team OHL for 2013 SUBWAY Super Series

Press Release

Toronto, ON – The Canadian Hockey League in association with the Ontario Hockey League and the Oshawa Generals and Sudbury Wolves Hockey Clubs today announced the Team OHL rosters for the 2013 SUBWAY® Super Series.

Team OHL will compete against the Russian National Junior Team in Game 3 of the series in Oshawa on Thursday November 21 with Game 4 to be played in Sudbury on Monday November 25.  The series also includes two games in the QMJHL prior to both OHL games, and ends with the two games hosted by the WHL.

29 players have been selected to represent the OHL in the 2013 SUBWAY® Super Series including 12 players who attended Canada’s National Junior Team Summer Development Camp.  That group includes 2015 NHL Draft prospect Connor McDavid of the Erie Otters, along with Max Domi, Bo Horvat, and Ryan Rupert of the London Knights, Brendan Gaunce of the Belleville Bulls, Scott Laughton of the Oshawa Generals, and Kerby Rychel of the Windsor Spitfires.  Defenceman in that group include Matt Finn of the Guelph Storm, the Spitfires’ Slater Koekkoek, Darnell Nurse of the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds, and the Otters’ Adam Pelech.  Also included is goaltender Jake Paterson of the Saginaw Spirit who was a member of Team Canada in the 2013 IIHF World Junior Championship.

Laughton is one of four Generals’ competing in the game in Oshawa alongside forward and 2014 NHL Draft prospect Michael Dal Colle, defenceman Josh Brown, and goaltender Daniel Altshuller.  Two members of the Sudbury Wolves will compete before the home crowd in Game 4 of the series including forwards Nicholas Baptiste and Mathew Campagna.

The Team OHL rosters were assembled by a Selection Committee that includes Jeff Twohey of the Generals, and Owen Sound Attack General Manager Dale DeGray.  Both Twohey and DeGray worked in consultation with Hockey Canada Head Scout Ryan Jankowski.

In 10 years of competition against the Russian National Junior Team, the OHL has a record of 19-1 in this series following a 2-1 loss last season in Guelph, and a 2-1 victory in Sarnia.

Team OHL Roster – Oshawa – November 21

*players competing in both games

Goaltenders (2):

Daniel Altshuller (Oshawa Generals)

Matthew Murray (Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds)*

Defencemen (7):

Chris Bigras (Owen Sound Attack)*

Josh Brown (Oshawa Generals)*

Aaron Ekblad (Barrie Colts)*

Matt Finn (Guelph Storm)

Slater Koekkoek (Windsor Spitfires)

Darnell Nurse (Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds)*

Adam Pelech (Erie Otters)*

Forwards (12):

Josh Anderson (London Knights)*

Connor Brown (Erie Otters)*

Michael Dal Colle (Oshawa Generals)

Max Domi (London Knights)*

Brendan Gaunce (Belleville Bulls)*

Bo Horvat (London Knights)*

Scott Kosmachuk (Guelph Storm)

Scott Laughton (Oshawa Generals)*

Connor McDavid (Erie Otters)*

Brock McGinn (Guelph Storm)

Zach Nastasiuk (Owen Sound Attack)

Kerby Rychel (Windsor Spitfires)

Staff:

Head Coach – D.J Smith (Oshawa Generals)

Assistant Coach – Roger Hunt (Oshawa Generals)

Assistant Coach – Paul McFarland (Oshawa Generals)

Head Athletic Trainer – Bryan Boyes (Oshawa Generals)

Team OHL Roster – Sudbury – November 25

*players competing in both games

Goaltenders (2):

Matthew Murray (Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds)*

Jake Paterson (Saginaw Spirit)

Defencemen (6):

Chris Bigras (Owen Sound Attack)*

Josh Brown (Oshawa Generals)*

Trevor Carrick (Mississauga Steelheads)

Aaron Ekblad (Barrie Colts)*

Darnell Nurse (Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds)*

Adam Pelech (Erie Otters)*

Forwards (13):

Josh Anderson (London Knights)*

Nicholas Baptiste (Sudbury Wolves)

Sam Bennett (Kingston Frontenacs)

Connor Brown (Erie Otters)*

Mathew Campagna (Sudbury Wolves)

Max Domi (London Knights)*

Brendan Gaunce (Belleville Bulls)*

Bo Horvat (London Knights)*

Scott Laughton (Oshawa Generals)*

Connor McDavid (Erie Otters)*

Chris Tierney (London Knights)

Ryan Rupert (London Knights)

Carter Verhaeghe (Niagara IceDogs)

 Staff:

Head Coach – Dale Hunter (London Knights)

Assistant Coach – Paul Fixter (Sudbury Wolves)

Assistant Coach – David Matsos (Sudbury Wolves)

Head Athletic Trainer – Dan Buckland (Sudbury Wolves)

The 2013 SUBWAY® Super Series is supported by CHL associate sponsors, Bank of Montreal, and Old Dutch.

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

PRINCE ALBERT RAIDERS: Modano Night

Press Release

Prince Albert SK – The Prince Albert Raiders announced today that the entire team will wear authentic commemorative jerseys in the warm-up of Friday night’s game in honour former Raider Mike Modano having his number retired prior to the game.

The jerseys, provided by Conexus Credit Union, feature the same design and logo from when Modano played in Prince Albert, as well as featuring the number 9 and Modano name bar on the back of the uniforms.

Every Raider will wear an authentic Modano replica jersey during warm-up on Friday night

Twelve of the jerseys will be available for purchase via a silent auction in the Johnny Bower Lobby, with the winners being announced in the third period. At the conclusion of the game, winners will receive their autographed jersey from Modano himself at ice level.

The Raiders also have many special items for the Raiders store to celebrate the evening, including special Modano pucks for just nine dollars, as well as Modano t-shirts and 11” by 17” limited edition prints that honour Modano’s hockey career.

Commemorative Modano pucks will be on sale in the Raider store for just $9

Earlier in the day, Modano will be a featured special guest on TSN’s Off the Record with Michael Landsberg, airing at 3:00 PM Saskatchewan time.

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

IceRays schedule change

Press Release

CORPUS CHRISTI, TX - The Corpus Christi IceRays have announced that due to an event at the American Bank Center, the Saturday November 9th game vs. Amarillo has been moved to Sunday November 10th at 3:05PM.  HBO Boxing will hold a live event on that Saturday night.

Friday’s game will be the annual Stars & Stripes Night presented by Whataburger and First Title.  The specialty jerseys that are worn during the game will be auctioned off following the final buzzer.  In addition, fans can skate with the IceRays after the game!

Sunday’s game will be a 3:05PM faceoff against the Amarillo Bulls.

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

Tuesday, October 29, 2013

Mooseheads’ Darcy Ashley named CHL Player of the Week

Press Release

Toronto, ON – The Canadian Hockey League today announced that forward Darcy Ashley of the Halifax Mooseheads is the CHL Player of the Week for the week ending October 27 after scoring three goals and five assists for eight points in three games with a plus-minus rating of plus-6.

Ashley helped lead the Mooseheads to three wins last week collecting first star honours in two of those games beginning last Wednesday night in a big matchup against the Charlottetown Islanders.  Against one of the QMJHL’s top teams, Ashley scored twice including the game-winner and picked up an assist as first star of the 4-2 win.  On Friday night in the first of back-to-back games against the Acadie-Bathurst Titan, Ashley recorded three assists as part of the 5-2 win, then netted the game-winner with an assist on Saturday again claiming first star honours in the 4-3 victory.

Ashley, a 20-year-old from Alberton, PEI, is playing in his fourth career QMJHL season.  In just eight games so far this season he has seven goals and seven assists for 14 points after producing 59 points in 66 games last season for the MasterCard Memorial Cup Champion Mooseheads.

Also considered for the award this week was Carolina Hurricanes prospect Brock McGinn of the Guelph Storm who scored five goals and three assists for eight points in three games, while Josh Winquist of the Everett Silvertips scored one goal and six assists for seven points in two games.


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

Attack acquire Hargrave

Press Release

Owen Sound Attack General Manager Dale DeGray is announcing that the club has acquired forward Brett Hargrave from the Sarnia Sting in exchange for a 2nd Round Draft Choice in 2016, Windsor’s 3rd Round Draft Choice in 2017 and a 4th Round Draft Choice in 2014. There is a condition whereby the 2016 2nd Round Draft Choice will turn in to a 2014 2nd Round  Draft Choice should the Attack acquire a 2014 2nd Round Draft Pick before the trade deadline.

Coming to the Attack is seventeen year old Brett Hargrave. Hargrave was a 1st Round Draft Pick of the Sting in 2012, 13th overall. The 6’4, 205lb winger notched 6 goals and 5 assists in his rookie year in 2012/2013 and had a goal and three assists in nine games this season before going home to await a trade. During last year’s World U17 Challenge, the North Bay native had 2 goals and 3 assists in 5 games for Team Ontario.

“During Brett’s draft year we saw a lot of qualities that appealed to us.”, said DeGray. “He is a big winger and we feel he will help our club this year and in the coming years. We’d like to welcome Brett and his family into the Attack organization.”

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

The QMJHL in mourning following the passing of Dr. Guy Morissette

Press Release 

The Quebec Major Junior Hockey League is in mourning following news of Dr. Guy Morissette’s passing. He passed away at the age of 84 years of age.

Morissette was the 9th president of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League from 1984 to 1986. As head of the QMJHL, doctor Morissette created the Sports-Study program. He loved sports, particularly hockey. He also founded the Junior B Hockey League in Outaouais and was President of the Quebec Federation of Ice Hockey from 1979 to 1983.

Specializing in orthopaedics, he practiced medicine in both Quebec and Ontario.

The QMJHL would like to extend its deepest condolences to his family.

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

Rockets’ Jordon Cooke named Vaughn CHL Goaltender of the Week

Press Release

Toronto, ON – The Canadian Hockey League today announced that Jordon Cooke of the Kelowna Rockets is the Vaughn CHL Goaltender of the Week for the week ending October 27 with a 2-0-0-0 record posting a goals-against-average of 0.96 and save percentage of .968.

Cooke stopped 61 shots in two games backstopping the Rockets to a pair of back-to-back road wins against B.C Division opponent the Victoria Royals.  On Friday night he made 28 saves and was named second star of the 4-1 win, then stopped 33 shots on Saturday and blanked all three Royals’ shooters to earn first star honours in the 2-1 shootout victory.

Cooke, a 20-year-old from Leduc, AB, is playing in his fourth career WHL season with the Rockets.  In 10 games this season he has an 8-0-0-2 record with a league-best goals-against-average of 1.85 and league-high save percentage of .939.

Also considered for the award this week was Colorado Avalanche prospect Spencer Martin of the Mississauga Steelheads who posted a 2-1-0-0 record with one shutout victory along with a goals-against-average of 2.43 and save percentage of .944, while Minnesota Wild prospect Alexandre Belanger of the Rouyn-Noranda Huskies went 3-0-0-0 with a goals-against-average of 2.33 and save percentage of .926.


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

Cowichan Capitals acquire Matt Foster

Press Release

The Cowichan Capital have obtained the CJHL playing rights to 1995 born Matt Foster. Matt is a 6’1” defenceman from Tisdale, Saskatchewan. Last season, in 44 games with the Tisdale Trojans of the Saskatchewan Midget AAA league, Matt tallied 12 points and 31 PIM. He began this season with the Calgary Hitmen of the WHL.

“Matt is a good skating, puck moving Dman. He is a young guy that we feel will help us for the next 2 or 3 years.” Said Head Coach Bob Beatty.

Join us in welcoming Matt to the Cowichan Valley. Come on out and cheer him on this Sunday, as the Capitals take on the Nanaimo Clippers. Puck drops at 2PM.

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

MJHL Announces Three Stars of the Week

Press Release

FLORHAM PARK, NJ – The Metropolitan Junior Hockey League is pleased to announce its “Three Stars of the Week” for the period ending October 27, 2013. The three stars program is a weekly award given to the top performers in MJHL games, regardless of position, for the previous week. The awards are scored on a 5-3-1 point basis to assist in determining top performers for the year-end awards.

This week, Philadelphia Revolution defenseman Brad Nolan (’93 birth year/Bridgeton, MO) is the league’s 1st Star, Central Penn Panthers forward Richie McCartney (’96 birth year/Hershey, PA) is the league’s 2nd Star and Long Island Royals goaltender Corey Cairo (’94 birth year/Shoreham, NY) is the league’s 3rd Star.

Nolan takes home the top honor this week after helping to pilot the Revolution to a pair of wins over their division foe, the Jersey Titans this weekend in a home and home series. The Missouri native had five points (2G 3A) over the two games and now is the MJHL’s leading scorer, among defenseman with seventeen total points. Not just a scorer, Nolan was a +4 on the weekend and also didn’t commit a penalty.

“Brad is an aggressive offensive defenseman that makes plays,” said Revolution Head Coach John Ambrefe. “He is able to help set up plays in the offensive zone and his vision on the defensive side of the ice adds to his ability to be a playmaker. He also serves as one of our captains as is a positive role model for our younger guys.”

The league’s second star is McCartney, a high-scoring forward for the Central Penn Panthers. McCartney had a pair of goals and a pair of assists in each of the Panthers victories over the New Jersey Renegades and his offensive display has vaulted near the top of the MJHL scoring leaderboard.

“Richie has some tremendous offensive gifts,” said Central Penn General Manager Andy Scott. “He is very good with the puck in tight spaces. His ability to beat opponents one on one creates a lot of chances for both him and his teammates. He was also an integral part of why our power play excelled this weekend.”

Rounding out this week’s stars of the week is Cairo, veteran goalie for the Long Island Royals. Cairo has been an integral part of the Royals reign at the top of the Mullen Division over the last several seasons. Cairo picked up a pair of shootout victories this weekend, including one over the Mullen Division leading North Jersey Avalanche. The Shoreham, New York native made fifty-four saves over the two games but was at his best in the shootouts where he made twelve saves on fourteen shots, enabling the Royals to win both shootouts.

“Corey was the backbone of our team this weekend,” said Royals Head Coach Ken Hoey. “He made so many of those ‘how did he do that?’ type saves that really kept us in the games this weekend.”

Receiving honorable mention this week:
·       Phil. Junior Flyers defenseman Alex Cortellessa (’96 birth year/Douglassville, PA)
·       Walpole Express goaltender Aaron Daniello (’96 birth year/Rockland, ME)
·       Boston Bandits defenseman Taylor Hale (’93 birth year/Glendora, CA)
·       Hartford Junior Wolfpack defenseman Lou Ianotti (’96 birth year/Durham, CT)
·       Jersey Wildcats goaltender Matt Inglis (’95 birth year/Irvington, NY)
·       Boston Bandits forward Tommy Mahoney (’95 birth year/Braintree, MA)
·       Richmond Generals goaltender Tucker Murphy (’94 birth year/Chesterfield, VA)
·       Philadelphia Junior Flyers defenseman John Perretta (’95 birth year/Staten Island, NY)
·       Hartford Junior Wolfpack forward Zach Palmer (’95 birth year/Ellington, CT)

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

NAPHL announces Franklin Peak Performers for October

Press Release

The North American Prospects Hockey League (NAPHL) announced its Franklin Virtual High School Peak Performers for the month of October.  The players were selected based upon their performance at the second NAPHL event of the season, which took place at Sharks Ice in San Jose, California from October 18-21, 2013.

18U Franklin Peak Performer (Offense) – Hunter Stanley, forward, California Titans

The California Titans 18U club was able to climb the NAPHL standings thanks to a 3-1-1 showing in San Jose earlier this month at the NAPHL West Showcase. 17-year-old forward Hunter Stanley led the way with 12 points (6 goals, 6 assists) in the five games on his way to being named as the Franklin Virtual High School 18U Offensive Peak Performer from the event. The native of Camarillo, California began the event with a shorthanded assist in a 3-2 win over previously unbeaten Anaheim. After going scoreless in their only regulation loss of the event to Phoenix, Stanley (6’3/190) then went off for four goals and an assist in a 7-2 win over Cleveland, in which he also had the game-winning goal. That same day, Stanley then scored two goals and added two assists in a 5-2 win over San Jose. He finished the event with two assists and a shootout goal in a 4-3 shootout loss to the Pikes Peak Miners. For the 2013-14 season, Stanley not only leads the Titans 18U team in scoring, but also shares the NAPHL 18U scoring lead with 16 points (8 goals, 8 assists) in 10 games played to date. “Hunter uses his size well. He is strong on the puck and that allows him to be successful at this level,” said Titans head coach Luc Beausoleil. “He is a very hard worker. He works just as hard in practice as he does a game.”

#2 Star: Teemu Runsala, forward, California Titans

#3 Star: Elijah Barriga, forward, Anaheim Jr. Ducks

18U Franklin Peak Performer (Defense) – Joseph Recktenwald, goaltender, Esmark Stars

The Esmark Stars 2,300-mile trip to San Jose was well worth it as they were the only team in the 18U Division to post a perfect 5-0 record at the event. Backstopping the team was first-year 18U goalie Joseph Recktenwald.  The 17-year-old native of South Park, Pennsylvania, won Franklin Virtual High School 18U Defensive Peak Performers honors for his solid work in San Jose. Recktenwald (5’11/155) went 3-0 at the event with a 1.33 goals against average and a 92.7% save percentage. He began the event with a 17-save performance in a 5-2 win over the San Jose Jr. Sharks. Recktenwald was even better two days later as he allowed just a single goal in a 3-1 win over the Pikes Peak Miners, where he also made 21 saves. On the final day, Recktenwald made 13 saves in a 5-1 win over the Cleveland Jr. Lumberjacks. To date, Recktenwald has a 4-1-1 record his season in NAPHL play with a 2.00 goals against average and a 90.2% save percentage. “Joseph did a real good job of maintaining focus during the event,” said Esmark 18U head coach Dave Kosick. “He is very sound technically and has great reflexes, which are making him an elite goaltender at this level.”

#2 Star: Samu Suominen, defenseman, California Titans

#3 Star: Rock Boynton, goaltender, Anaheim Jr. Ducks

16U Franklin Peak Performer (Offense) – Cody Key, forward, California Titans

Like the 18U club, the 16U California Titans also posted a 3-1-1 record in San Jose. Offensively, there was no one better at the event than Titans 16U forward Cody Key.  The 16-year-old from Fresno, California, had an event to remember as he racked up 15 points (7 goals, 8 assists) in just five games. Key (6’0/160) started the event in grand style with a five-point game, which included a goal and four assists in a 14-1 win over Phoenix. In the second game, Key added another goal and two assists in a 7-0 win over the Cleveland Jr. Lumberjacks. Later that day, he had a goal in regulation and another in the shootout in a 4-3 shootout loss to Anaheim. In the fourth game, he had a goal and an assist in a 5-3 loss to the Pikes Peak Miners. On the final day, he had two goals, including the game-winner, and an assist in a 3-1 win over the Esmark Stars. Key’s 23 points to date not only leads the Titans 16U team in scoring, but the entire NAPHL as well. “Cody has taken on a leadership role since the beginning of the season,” said Titans coach Luc Beausoleil. “Last year, he was overshadowed a bit because we had a lot of talent, but this year he has proven he is that top-level guy. His work ethic on and off the ice has been outstanding and he is focused on developing into a premier level junior hockey player one day.”

#2 Star: Evan Pace, forward, San Jose Jr. Sharks

#3 Star: Matthew Ebertin, forward, San Jose Jr. Sharks

16U Franklin Peak Performer (Defense) – Devin Cooley, goaltender, San Jose Jr. Sharks

Last month, it was teammate Jacob Acton who was honored as the 16U Defensive Peak Performer, but this month San Jose goaltender Devin Cooley, 16, has been tagged with the award thanks to his perfect performance in San Jose. The Los Gatos, California native played in two games in San Jose and posted shutouts in both of them, helping the Jr. Sharks post the only perfect 5-0 record at the event for any 16U team. Cooley’s (6’3/151) first game of the event was his best, as he stopped all 25 shots that came his way in a 1-0 win over the Pikes Peak Miners. A day later he stopped all 12 shots that came his way in a 14-0 shutout of Cleveland. In total, Cooley faced 37 shots at the event and stopped all of them. Cooley is part of a Sharks goaltending tandem that has allowed just 14 goals in the first 10 games of the season. “Devin came up big for us in San Jose. He was the best player for us in each game he played,” said San Jose assistant coach Mike Janda. “Whenever you win a game 1-0, the first guy you look to is your goalie. Devin has had continued success because of his size and his athletic ability, both of which help him make the routine and spectacular saves.”

#2 Star: Austin Pickford, defenseman, California Titans

#3 Star: Zach Fobar, defenseman, San Jose Jr. Sharks

The NAPHL is comprised of six regular-season events leading up to its Championship Tournament Series in which the top teams at each level compete for a league championship. The third NAPHL event of the 2013-14 season will take place from November 8-10 at Canlan Ice Sports in Romeoville, Illinois. It will feature all 16 of the NAPHL’s 18U teams, each playing in four games.

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

SJHL officials rewarded with elite assignments

Press Release

The Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League along with Hockey Canada are very pleased to announce the selection of Referee  Bryce Sebastian and Linesman Tarrington Wyonzek,  to work the 2014 World Under 17 Hockey Challenge which will be held in Cape Breton/Sydney, Nova Scotia during the dates of December 28th – January 4th.

Earlier this month Hockey Canada selected Chris Crich to Referee at the World Junior A Challenge which will be held in Yarmouth Nova Scotia in early November.

Tracy Cook, Referee in Chief for the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League would like to congratulate Chris, Bryce and Tarrington on being selected as referees to work at such prestigious events.

Bill Chow, President of the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League, states that the league is here to develop on ice officials as well as players and coaches. The Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League takes pride in the recognition of these 3 individuals.


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

Smokies announce new head coach

Press Release

The Trail Smoke Eaters are pleased to announce the hiring of Nick Deschenes as the team’s new head coach and general manager.

Deschenes, a native of Morinville, Alberta, joins the Smoke Eaters from the KIJHL’s Grand Forks Border Bruins, who he led to a 6-7-0-1 record through fourteen games this season.

“We as a board of directors met with Coach Deschenes on the weekend and were very impressed with his approach,” said Smoke Eaters president Tom Gawryletz.

“He comes to our organization with a terrific hockey background and was doing a great job with the club in Grand Forks,” Gawryletz added.

As a player, Deschenes skated in the Alberta Junior Hockey League with the Fort Saskatchewan Traders, scoring 40 goals and 85 points during the 1998-99 season earning a scholarship to Yale University. Deschenes played four seasons with the Bulldogs, scoring a NCAA career-high 17 goals and 37 points during the 2000-01 season. Upon departing the Ivy League school, Deschenes played in the AHL (Philadelphia Phantoms) and ECHL (Trenton Titans) before a five-year stint in Germany, Italy and the Netherlands.

He joined the Border Bruins as a coach at the tail end of the 2011-12 season after his final season of professional hockey with the Federal Hockey League’s Danbury Whalers.

Assistant coaches Barry Zanier and Craig Clare, who had been serving as interim co-coaches for the past twelve days, will now resume their regular roles. Deschenes is expected to join the Smoke Eaters for practice Tuesday.


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

Sea Dogs part ways with Mike Kelly

Press Release

SAINT JOHN - The Saint John Sea Dogs have announced that they have parted ways with Mike Kelly.

Kelly had been the head coach and general manager of the Sea Dogs since the summer of 2012. Before that, he was the team's associate coach and director of hockey operations for three seasons beginning in 2009.

"Mike Kelly is a man of integrity, and decisions like these are never easy," said Sea Dogs' President Wayne Long. "It is our duty to do what we feel is in the best interest of our team. We will always be grateful and appreciative of what Mike has done for the Sea Dogs' organization."

The Sea Dogs expect to name a new head coach in the coming days.
 (Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)

Tyler Benson to make WHL debut

Press Release

The Vancouver Giants announced today that their first overall pick in the 2013 Western Hockey League Bantam Draft, Tyler Benson, will make his Western Hockey League debut at the Pacific Coliseum on Saturday November 16 against the Tri-City Americans.

"I'm excited to be able to play my first Western Hockey League game as a Giant," said Benson. "It's going to be a good experience for me, and it's exciting to know when I'm going to play so I can prepare for it."

The 15-year old forward is currently in Kelowna playing for the Pursuit of Excellence Hockey Academy Under-18 Prep team. The POE U18 Prep team competes in both the North American Prospects Hockey League (NAPHL) and the Canadian Sport School Hockey League (CSSHL).

Benson is currently leading his team in scoring in the NAPHL with 15 points (6 goals, 9 assists) in 8 games played. In the CSSHL, Benson has also played 8 games in which he has 19 points (9 goals, 10 assists).

"We are all excited to see him in his first Western Hockey League game," said Giants' Majority Owner Ron Toigo. "It's always exciting when these special players get into their first game. Last year, we got a peek of Alec Baer and Jakob Stukel debut as 15-year olds, and Benson should be just as exciting as they were to watch."

The 5'11", 185lbs Edmonton native broke records in Bantam, registering 146 points (57 goals, 89 assists) in 33 games with the South Side Athletic Club Lions.

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

La Ronge acquires Duret

Press Release

The La Ronge Ice Wolves, already flush with offensive talent, made another move on Monday to complement their forwards by acquiring 1995 F Jason Duret (Prince Albert SK) from the AJHL's Camrose Kodiaks for future considerations.

Duret was a big time producer in the Saskatchewan Midget AAA Hockey League, scoring 19-goals and 48-assists in 44-games with the Prince Albert Mintos a year ago.  He also AP'd with the Ice Wolves before choosing Camrose prior to this year.

Duret had 3-assists in 11-games with the Kodiaks and will attempt to get a fresh start back in La Ronge under Shawn Martin, who has the Wolves off to a fantastic start and playing an exciting brand of hockey.
 
 (Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)

QMJHL announces 2012 SUBWAY Super Series Roster

Press Release

 The Gatineau Olympiques and Sherbrooke Phoenix organizations, in collaboration with the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League and the Canadian Hockey League, today announced the roster of Team QMJHL which will compete against Team Russia in the 2013 SUBWAY® Super Series.

The Olympiques will host the first game of the series on Monday, November 18th at the Robert Guertin Centre, while the Phoenix will host game two at the Palais des Sports Léopold-Drolet on Wednesday, November 20th.  Team Russia then heads west to play two games against Team OHL followed by two games against Team WHL.  All six contests will be televised nationwide on Sportsnet while TVA Sports will broadcast the two contests in QMJHL territory.

Each of the three CHL member leagues assembled a selection committee, working closely with Hockey Canada, to select the players for this year’s series. A total of twenty-three players will participate in the event this year.  The rosters for each individual game will be announced at a later date.

The 2013 SUBWAY® Super Series is supported by CHL associate sponsors, Bank of Montreal and Old Dutch.

Team QMJHL roster for the 2013 SUBWAY® Super Series:

GOALTENDERS
Auger, Sébastien
Fucale, Zachary

DEFENSEMEN
Vanier, Alexis (BAC)
Fournier, Dillon (ROU)
Graves, Ryan (CHA)
Weegar, MacKenzie (HAL)
Hachè, Justin (CAP)
Morin, Samuel (RIM)
Walcott, Daniel (BLB)

FORWARDS
Mantha, Anthony (VDO)
Hudon, Charles (CHI)
Roy, Marc-Olivier (BLB)
Duclair, Anthony (QUE)
Deluca, Anthony (RIM)
Girard, Félix (BAC)
Gauthier, Frédérik (RIM)
Dauphin, Laurent (CHI)
Drouin, Jonathan (HAL)
Carrier, William (CAP)
Gregoire, Jeremy (BAC)
Audette, Daniel (SHE)
Clapperton, Christopher (BLB)
Poirier, Émile (GAT)

The schedule for the 2013 SUBWAY® Super Series is as follows:

Game 1 – Monday November 18 at Gatineau, QC
Game 2 – Wednesday November 20 at Sherbrooke, QC
Game 3 – Thursday November 21 at Oshawa, ON
Game 4 – Monday November 25 at Sudbury, ON
Game 5 – Wednesday November 27 at Red Deer, AB
Game 6 – Thursday November 28 at Lethbridge, AB

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

Warriors acquire Zalitach from Giants

Press Release

Moose Jaw, SK - Moose Jaw Warriors General Manager Alan Millar has announced the acquisition of 17-year-old defenceman Reid Zalitach from the Vancouver Giants in exchange for a fourth round pick in 2015 and a third round pick in 2016.

Zalitach was selected by Vancouver in the second round, 38th overall, in the 2011 WHL Bantam Draft and is from Winnipeg, Manitoba.  In 54 career games he has seven assists and 18 penalty minutes.  He was also a member of Team West at the 2013 World Under-17 Hockey Challenge in Quebec.

Zalitach is expected to join the Warriors this week.  

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

NAHL announces Easton Divisional Stars of the Week

Press Release

The North American Hockey League (NAHL) today announced the Divisional Stars of the Week presented by Easton for the week ending October 27, 2013.  The Divisional Stars of the Week is a weekly feature during the 2013-14 regular season that honors the top performing players in each of the four NAHL divisions. Only players that are nominated by their respective teams are considered for the Divisional Players of the Week award.

Central Division Star of the Week: Huba Sekesi, forward, Bismarck Bobcats

The Bobcats are back on top of the Central Division as they share 1st place with the Austin Bruins and that is thanks to their hot play and a weekend home-and-home sweep of the Minot Minotauros this past weekend. 20-year-old forward Huba Sekesi was the shining star for the Bobcats as the native of Munich, Germany registered two goals and two assists for four points in the two wins. Both of Sekesi’s (6’1/200) goals were game-winners. On Friday, Sekesi had the game-winning goal in a 3-1 win at home and on Saturday he had the game-winning goal and two assists in a 5-2 win in Minot. “I can’t say enough about Huba and his start this year,” said Bobcats head coach Layne Sedevie. “It has been huge for us to get that type of caliber of player on the team.  He has great skill and good size and they go hand in hand in his success.”

2nd Star: Nick Lehr, goaltender, Austin Bruins

Honorable Mention (alphabetical): Dillon Eichstadt, defenseman, Aberdeen Wings – Evan Hesse, forward, Brookings Blizzard – Austin Priebe, goaltender, Brookings Blizzard – Filip Starzynski, forward, Bismarck Bobcats – Patrick Steinhauser, forward, Aberdeen Wings

Midwest Division Star of the Week: Albin Karlsson, forward, Kenai River Brown Bears

Kenai River second-year forward Albin Karlsson, 19, helped the Brown Bears to a three-game weekend road sweep in Wenatchee against the Wild this weekend and help the Brown Bears stay in the top spot in the Midwest Division. The forward from Uppsala, Sweden, totaled six points in the three wins and was remarkably consistent during the weekend. On Friday, Karlsson (5’8/160) had two assists and also scored in the shootout in a 4-3 shootout win. On Saturday, he picked up two more assists in a 3-1 win. On Sunday, Karlsson scored the game-winning goal late in the 3rd period and added an assist in a 4-3 win. The most impressive stat for the weekend for Karlsson however, was that he was a +8 during the weekend. In 14 games played this season, Karlsson had 15 points.

2nd Star: Alec Butcher, forward, Kenai River Brown Bears

Honorable Mention (alphabetical): Blake Cates, goaltender, Coulee Region Chill – Billy Exell, forward, Minnesota Wilderness – Mac Jansen, forward, Coulee Region Chill – Eetu Karvinen, forward, Minnesota Magicians – Kyle Lee, forward, Fairbanks Ice Dogs – Thomas Lindstrom, forward, Minnesota Wilderness

North Division Star of the Week: Colin Brennan, goaltender, Soo Eagles

Soo Eagles goaltender Colin Brennan, 20, had some extra incentive to play well this weekend. The native of Chester, New Jersey was in his old stomping grounds of Johnstown, playing his former Tomahawks team. Soo ended up winning two of the three weekend games, and both of those were the ones that Brennan (6’1/185) started in. On Thursday, Brennan made 19 saves in a 3-0 shutout of his former team.  On Saturday, Brennan got the start again and responded with 26 saves in a 4-3 win. For the weekend, Brennan stopped 45 of 48 shots for a 93.8% save percentage and a 1.50 goals against average. The shutout was Brennan’s second of his NAHL career. “I think Colin was really was looking forward to playing in Johnstown because he was calm and showed a lot composure,” said Eagles head coach Bruno Bragagnolo. “He made some key saves at key times. It is a battle for starting time right now between him and Paige (Skoog), so it is good to see the guys push one another to be better each time they play.”

2nd Star: Mitch Maloney, forward, Port Huron Fighting Falcons

Honorable Mention (alphabetical): Alex Blankenburg, goaltender, Port Huron Fighting Falcons – Patrick Curry, forward, Springfield Jr. Blues – Jake Hopfner, forward, Michigan Warriors – Colin Larkin, forward, Michigan Warriors – Stefanos Lekkas, goaltender, Springfield Jr. Blues – Mike Sabatini, forward, Soo Eagles

South Division Star of the Week: Ben Greiner, forward, Rio Grande Valley Killer Bees

Without much pomp and circumstance the Rio Grande Valley Killer Bees have moved themselves right into the South Division race for 1st place thanks to a good start and opportunistic play as of late. That was on display this weekend as they split a pair of home games with defending champion Amarillo. Forward Ben Greiner, 20, has been the model of consistency, which included this past weekend with a pair of goals and an assist and a +2 rating in the split. On Friday, the Newport Beach, California native had the lone goal in a close 2-1 loss.  On Saturday, Greiner (6’1/190) scored again and assisted on the first goal in a 4-1 win over the Bulls. For the season, Greiner leads the Killer Bees in scoring with 18 points and he is currently riding a 10-game point streak, which is second best in the NAHL this season. “Ben has been very dedicated and been a great leader in the lockerroom for this team,” said Rio Grande head coach Joe Coombs. “He works hard for every thing he gets.  He is playing well and staying consistent every game.”

2nd Star: David Zevnik, goaltender, Wichita Falls Wildcats

Honorable Mention (alphabetical): JB Baker, forward, Rio Grande Valley Killer Bees – PJ Bridges, goaltender, Topeka RoadRunners – Collin Delia, goaltender, Amarillo Bulls – Jasen Fernsler, forward, Topeka RoadRunners – Forbes Ploszaj, goaltender, Corpus Christi IceRays – Tony Roisum, forward, Corpus Christi IceRays

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

Vees sign defenseman

Press Release

The Penticton Vees Jr. 'A' Hockey Club has signed defenseman Clint Filbrandt (95) the team announced Monday.

Filbrandt, 18, was most recently with the Kootenay Ice of the Western Hockey League. The Calgary product appeared in nine games this season with the Ice, with zero points but had a plus two rating and tallied four penalty-minutes. Filbrandt was dealt to Kootenay in the off-season, after starting his WHL career with the Tri-City Americans last season, the team that selected him in the 10th round of the 2010 WHL Bantam Draft. Last year Filbrant appeared in 31 games for the Americans, where he picked up a goal and an assist to go along with 17 penalty minutes, while earning a plus two rating.

Prior to joing the WHL ranks, the 6', 180 pound rear-guard played two seasons of midget hockey in his hometown with the Calgary North Stars. In two seasons in the Alberta Midget League, Filbrandt tallied four goals and 13 points in 36 games, while racking up 92 penalty-minutes.

Filbrandt, who will wear number 17, already made his Vees debut last Saturday, in the Vees 4-2 loss in Salmon Arm. The signing leaves the Vees with seven defenseman and a full 22-man roster. Filbrandt helps fill a hole on the back-end, as Blake Butzow is still recovering from a bout of Meningitis back home in Plymouth, Michigan.


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

Larson named General Manager of North Stars

Press Release

The Breezy Point North Stars Junior Hockey Club, proud members of the NA3HL, are pleased to announce the addition of Craig Larson as the team’s new General Manager and Director of Player Operations. The Breezy Point North Stars debuted last season as a new expansion franchise in the North American 3 Hockey League and are currently competing in their second season with the league.
 
“The Breezy Point North Stars are excited to take what we believe is a crucial next step in the development of our franchise,” stated Team Governor and former General Manager Joe Bergquist. “As with most new sports franchises and teams the first year can be especially difficult and filled with lots of lessons and learning curves and ours was no different. When we were presented with an expansion opportunity in the newly formed North American 3 Hockey League we could not pass it up even though the opportunity only allowed us approximately six months to go from approval and planning to our first game on the ice. We knew that with only six months to find and recruit players, combined with the overwhelming task of starting up a brand new business and franchise, a limited staff and budget that the first year was going to be very difficult, and it was."
 
"Our first year was definitely focused on building a solid business foundation and structure while learning the ropes of Junior Hockey. Now with our factory built its time to focus our time and attention on building and improving our product. Craig Larson has the background, knowledge, experience, and skills that we feel are needed to design and oversee production of our product. He will provide our Head Coach Bryan Henrichs with the support and tools he needs to build a superior product on the ice. I and everyone in our organization are extremely excited to have Craig join our team."
 
“I am looking forward to working with Craig and excited about this opportunity that will allow me to focus my time on coaching and developing these young men,” said Coach Bryan Henrichs. “The first year was tough because so much of my time was spent dealing with the business side of hockey that it left very little time to focus on players and coaching. Now with Craig on board taking over the business side of player operations I can focus on what I love, teaching training, developing, motivating, and pushing players to reach their full potential. I have known Craig for some time and have a great relationship with him. We have many of the same values, core beliefs and philosophies and have no doubt we will work well together.”
 
“I have been very impressed with the North Stars Organization,” commented Larson. “I am very excited to get started and grateful to have been offered this opportunity with their organization. After having observed them through their first expansion and inaugural season I am truly impressed with their professionalism and commitment to their players, employees, coaches, and fans. Their overall integrity is second to none. Junior Hockey is a tough business and oftentimes new owners and franchises will struggle with the adversity and challenges they face during their first few years. It’s easy to panic and have a knee jerk reaction when things don’t go as planned and they don’t see immediate wins or profits. In a normal business it takes six months to a year to analyze or see the results of a decision or business plan. Business owners and managers can quickly make adjustments and changes and see the results quickly. In the sports business world it can take up to three years to see real results."
 
"The process of fielding a successful team involves a year of research and recruiting followed by another year of teaching, training, and developing before you will see if you made a good or bad decision. If you clean house every year because you’re not winning immediately you’ll rarely succeed in sports. You have to be patient, willing to make small changes and adjustments along the way but still be committed to the overall vision and big plan. The sports business is like playing chess, it’s a long, precise, and strategic game that takes skill and patients.  I’m not coming on board to change course, clean house, or create a new plan. I’m a part of their current plan already in place and I am here to make a few minor adjustments and use my skills and experience to help design, develop, and build the team. I’m really looking forward to working with such a professional organization as the Breezy Point North Stars.”
 
Craig comes to the North Stars with over 15 years of junior hockey coaching, high school coaching and scouting experience. Most recently, Craig was a head junior hockey coach in the NA3HL and MNJHL junior hockey leagues. The past five seasons were spent as head coach of the Minnesota Flying Aces and Granite City Lumberjacks. During that time his teams advanced over twenty players to the college level and higher level junior ranks.
 
Craig served as head coach for the St. Cloud Apollo High School boy’s hockey team from 2000-2007. He has also served as a coach/evaluator for the USA Hockey Advanced program for Minnesota from 2000-2009 and the Northern Plains district in 2011-2013.
 
During the 2009-2010 season Craig served as a Minnesota scout for the Alexandria Blizzard (NAHL), as well as a U.S. regional amateur scout working for the International Scouting Service. As a regional scout for ISS, Craig evaluated and filed reports on players eligible for the NHL Draft.
 
During the 2008-2009 season Craig was the associate head coach and director of scouting for the Granite City Lumberjacks of the Minnesota Junior Hockey League. While there, he scouted, recruited, and helped form the expansion team now playing out of St. Cloud, Minnesota. His role with the Lumberjacks helped bring the expansion team to a third place finish at the 2009 USA Hockey Junior A Tier III National Championships in Marlboro, Massachusetts.
 
Craig spends his summers working as a coach at the prestigious Minnesota Hockey Camp in Nisswa, Minnesota. With a real passion for the game, he helps to develop elite players from bantam to college age in on/off ice training. Craig is married and has one son.

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

Icehawks - Jr. Sabres game rescheduled

Press Release

Game #381 between the Milton Icehawks and the Buffalo Jr. Sabres has been rescheduled to be played Sunday, November 24, 2013 at 3:30pm at the Milton Memorial Arena.

Originally scheduled to be played on Thursday, November 21, 2013, the game was moved due to a scheduling conflict.
 
 (Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)

Monday, October 28, 2013

Bender commits to Knights

Press Release

LONDON, ONTARIO: London Knights General Manager Mark Hunter announced today that defenseman Tim Bender has committed to and entered into an Ontario Hockey League Standard Player's Agreement with the London Knights.  Bender, an 18 year old from Mannheim, Germany, was the Knights 2nd round selection in the CHL Import Draft this past June.  He has played 11 games with Munich ECH of the German Ice Hockey League (DEL) this season playing alongside London Knights alumni Danny Richmond and Danny Bois.  He arrived in Canada today.

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

Blizzard’s Kulynych named Recycle Everywhere MJHL Player of the Week

Press Release

Damien Kulynych of the OCN Blizzard has been named the Recycle Everywhere MJHL Player of the Week for the week ending October 28.

 The 20-year-old forward recorded eight points (0-8) in three games for the Blizzard, who sit third in the Sher-Wood Division with eight wins and 17 points.

The runners up are 20 year old forward Artsiom Kalashnikov of the Virden Oil Capitals and 20 year old forward Mitch Van Teeling of the Dauphin Kings.

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

Winquist Denny's WHL Player of the Week

Press Release 

The Western Hockey League announced today that Everett Silvertips’ forward Josh Winquist is the Denny’s WHL Player of the Week for the week ending October 27, 2013.   

Winquist recorded seven points on one goal and six assists to go with a +2 rating over two games in the past week, leading the Silvertips to two victories in that span.

On Friday, October 25th, Winquist recorded three assists, including setting up the game-winner, as Everett managed a 6-5 victory on the road versus the Vancouver Giants in Vancouver, B.C.  On Saturday, October 26th, Winquist scored the overtime winner and added three assists for a four-point outing as the visiting Silvertips defeated the Kamloops Blazers 7-6 in Kamloops, B.C.

Winquist, a 20-year-old from St. Albert, AB, currently sits tied for eighth in WHL scoring with nine goals and 22 points through 15 games for Everett.  The 6’0”, 180-lb left wing is in his fifth and final season in the Western Hockey League, and has amassed 63 goals and 145 points in 248 career regular-season games for the Silvertips.  Winquist was selected in the third round, 66th overall, by Everett in the 2008 WHL Bantam Draft.

The WHL has also nominated Jordon Cooke of the Kelowna Rockets for the Vaughn CHL Goaltender of the Week award.  Cooke, a 20-year-old from Leduc, AB, posted a 2-0 record in two starts over the past week for Kelowna, allowing just two goals on 63 shots for a 0.96 goals-against average and a .968 save percentage in that span.  On Friday, October 25th, Cooke stopped 28 of 29 shots he faced while being named the game’s 2nd Star as the visiting Rockets defeated the Victoria Royals 4-1 in Victoria, B.C.  On Saturday, October 26th, Cooke stopped 33 of 34 shots he faced in regulation play and wasn’t beaten in the shootout, earning 1st Star honors, as Kelowna edged the Royals 2-1 in Victoria, B.C.  Cooke is in his fourth season in the WHL with the Rockets, and currently boasts an 8-0-0-2 record with a 1.85 GAA and a .939 save percentage through 10 appearances.

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

Storm's McGinn named OHL Player of Week

Press Release

Toronto, ON – The Ontario Hockey League today announced that Carolina Hurricanes prospect Brock McGinn of the Guelph Storm is the OHL Player of the Week for the week ending October 27 after scoring five goals and three assists for eight points in three games with a plus-minus rating of plus-3.

McGinn follows teammate Scott Kosmachuk as the second straight Storm forward to claim the award helping his club pick up three wins to extend their streak to seven straight victories.  On Tuesday night he tied a career-high with four points scoring his second hat-trick of the season and adding one assist as first star of a 6-3 win over Midwest Division rivals the Kitchener Rangers.  On Friday night he scored a goal and two assists as part of a 7-2 win over the North Bay Battalion, then finished the week by netting his 15th goal of the season on Sunday in another Midwest Division battle helping the Storm to a 7-4 win over the London Knights.

McGinn, a 19-year-old from Fergus, ON, is playing in his fourth career OHL season with the Storm.  Selected by the Hurricanes in the second round of the 2012 NHL Draft, McGinn is currently tied with Kosmachuk for fifth in OHL scoring with 15 goals and 12 assists for 27 points in 15 games after scoring 28 goals and 26 assists for 54 points in 68 games last season.


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

Ashley, Légaré and Bélanger named the TELUS three stars of the week

Press Release

Darcy Ashley, Charles-Éric Légaré and Alexandre Bélanger were named today the TELUS three stars of the week for October 21 to 27, 2013.

Darcy Ashley, the Halifax Mooseheads forward, is the first star of the week. He participated in 62% of the Mooseheads’ offence, playing a hand in 8 of the team’s 13 goals. He netted 3 important markers, including two game-winners while maintaining an excellent +/- of +6. Wearing the Captain’s jersey during home games while Trey Lewis was out of the line-up, he took matters into his own hands. Wednesday, in a 4-2 home win against the Charlottetown Islanders, Ashley collected a total of 3 points, earning first star honours by scoring the winning and the insurance goals at the end of 3rd period. Friday, in Acadie-Bathurst, with the Mooseheads playing their first of two games against the Titan, Ashley tallied 3 helpers, including one on the penalty kill to lead the team to a 5-2 win. Saturday, during the second battle, the Mooseheads won their third game in a row by sealing a 4-3 victory. Ashley scored the game-winner on top of adding an assist. His efforts warranted the first star of the game. Ashley has only played 8 games thus far this season, but already has 14 points, an average of 1.75 per game.

The second star is Cape Breton Screaming Eagles forward Charles-Éric Légaré. In 3 road games, he collected 7 points, including 3 goals. Wednesday, he opened the scoring while adding two assists against the Wildcats in a 5-2 win. Friday, he scored a goal and added an assist in a 5-4 loss to Chicoutimi. Saturday, in a heart-breaking 5-4 loss versus Baie-Comeau, he was named the 2nd star after collecting one goal, one assist and directing 4 dangerous shots on net. He helped the Screaming Eagles tie it up at four goals apiece before the Drakkar fought back by scoring with 5 seconds remaining on the clock.

In three games, including two against the formidable offence of the Val-d’Or Foreurs and their star forward Anthony Mantha, Huskies goaltender Alexandre Bélanger posted three wins to capture the third star of the week. He faced 95 shots, maintained a goals-against-average of 2.33 and had a save percentage of .926. Thursday, in a 4-1 win against the Shawinigan Cataractes, he was named the 3rd star after blocking 19 shots, including a penalty shot by Alexandre Grandmaison. He added an assist, his first of the season, on a goal by Jean-Sebastien Dea. In the first of two back-to-back contests against the rival Foreurs, he pushed away 35 shots in a 4-2 victory. In the second game against the Foreurs, Belanger faced 38 shots. He made 34 saves, enough to help the Huskies escape with a 5-4 win. Rouyn-Noranda is fifth in the QMJHL overall standings with 22 points. Their next challenge is on home ice this Friday November 1st against the Halifax Mooseheads.


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

USHL Honors - Week Six

Press Release

 The United States Hockey League today announced the CCM and Reebok player awards for the sixth week of the 2013-14 USHL regular season.

Award winners include Jake Randolph of the Omaha Lancers and Jared Thomas from the Sioux City Musketeers, selected as co-recipients of CCM Forward of the Week; Jack Dougherty of Team USA and Tyler Mueller of Sioux City, chosen as co-recipients of CCM Defenseman of the Week; and Jason Pawloski of the Indiana Ice, earning honors as Reebok Goaltender of the Week.

Jake Randolph, F, Omaha Lancers: The Duluth, Minnesota native continued his red hot start to the season with seven points (1g, 6a) over three games to help the Lancers earn five of six points in the standings.  On Friday, Randolph dished out three assists and recorded a plus-one on-ice rating in a 6-5 overtime loss to the Sioux City Musketeers.  He then tallied the game-winning goal in Saturday’s 2-0 win over the Tri-City Storm.  The 19-year-old rounded out his weekend by dishing out three more assists in Sunday’s 6-5 win over the Muskegon Lumberjacks.  Committed to the University of Nebraska-Omaha, Randolph is riding a five-game point streak (2g, 9a) and leads the USHL in scoring with 23 points (5g, 18a).

Jared Thomas, F, Sioux City Musketeers: The 19-year-old had a big weekend, recording six points (2g, 4a) to help the Musketeers earn two wins and extend their winning streak to five games.  On Friday night against Omaha, he tallied his first USHL career shorthanded goal and handed out two assists, including one on the game-winning goal in overtime.  The Hermantown, Minnesota native turned out another three-point night on Saturday, including an assist on the game-winner, in a 5-2 win over the Waterloo Black Hawks.  He also finished the game with a game-high plus-three on-ice rating. The University of Minnesota-Duluth commit leads the team in both points (13) and assists (9), and has recorded multi-point games in four of his last five (3g, 8a).

Jack Dougherty, D, Team USA: The Cottage Grove, Minnesota native was an instrumental part in Team USA’s 4-1 win over the Fargo Force on Friday, recording a pair of goals and an assist.  He scored on the power play in the first period, the first goal of his USHL career, and again converted on the power play in the second period which proved to be the game-winner. He added an assist early in the third period to complete his three-point night.  The 17-year-old also helped Team USA kill all nine of Fargo’s power play chances.  The University of Wisconsin commit has recorded six points (2g, 4a) over six games during his first USHL season and is currently tied for third in the League with a plus-10 on-ice rating.

Tyler Mueller, D, Sioux City Musketeers: The defenseman lit the lamp twice and recorded a plus-four on-ice rating in two victories for the Musketeers.  The University of Massachusetts-Lowell commit had the biggest game of his young USHL career on Friday, scoring two goals in a span of 1:34 during the third period to force overtime.  The Musketeers would then go on to win 6-5 in overtime vs. Omaha. In addition to his first two USHL goals, he finished with a plus-three rating and added one assist. The 19-year-old from Regina, Saskatchewan then posted a plus-one rating and was a part of a penalty killing unit that held Waterloo scoreless on six-of-seven power play chances.  Mueller has recorded all five of his points (2g, 3a) over his last five games.                       

Jason Pawloski, G, Indiana Ice: The 17-year-old rookie had a stellar weekend, posting a 2-0-0 record with a 2.00 goals-against average and .935 save percentage.  On Saturday night, he made a season high 38 saves in a 5-3 win over the Dubuque Fighting Saints to hand them their first loss of the season.  He was back between the pipes on Sunday, turning out a 20-save performance in a 6-1 win over the Des Moines Buccaneers.  The Omaha, Nebraska native has won three of his last four starts, posting a 2.01 GAA and 925 SV% over that span.  Pawloski is committed to Minnesota State University, Mankato and has recorded a 2.63 GAA and .904 SV% in eight appearances this season for the Ice.

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