Tuesday, April 30, 2013

SilverBacks Sale Complete

Press Release

The Salmon Arm SilverBacks ownership group of Randy and Terry Williams are pleased to announce that they have agreed to a deal in principal to the sell the club to a new ownership group led by current General Manager Troy Mick.

The Williams family has owned the team for the past 6 seasons and has enjoyed great success both on and off the ice with 5 playoff appearances and over 40 NCAA scholarships during their tenure.

As part of the ownership transition the new group has decided not to renew Head Coach Scott Robinson’s contract. The SilverBacks would like to thank Scott for his contribution to the organization and wish him the best of luck in his future endeavors.

The new group led by Mick who will continue his duties as General Manager while adding the role of President and Head Coach at the request of the new ownership group which is set to take control of the organization as early as May 1st, pending final approvals.

Randy and Terry Williams would like to thank all of their partners, fans, volunteers and the entire community of Salmon Arm for their support over the past 6 seasons. They are very proud to pass the torch off to the new ownership group and wish the organization and the community of the Salmon Arm the best of luck moving forward.

Fans can get their first glimpse of the new look SilverBacks organization next week as Spring Camp kicks off on Friday May 3rd and concludes with the Top Prospects game on Sunday afternoon at 2pm.


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

Buzzers defeat Thunderbirds 4-2 to open Dudley-Hewitt Cup

Press Release

NORTH BAY – Shane Conacher had a goal and two assists to help propel the St. Michael’s Buzzers (OJHL) to a 4-2 victory over the Soo Thunderbirds (NOJHL) in opening game action at the Dudley-Hewitt Cup Central Canada Junior championship being staged at North Bay’s Memorial Gardens.

It was the Ontario Junior Hockey League champion Buzzers who carried the play for large stints of the first period, but could not solve Thunderbirds netminder Joel Horodziejczyk who calmly turned aside all 23 shots he faced.

Adrian Ignagni was not tested until the latter stages of the stages as he finished the opening 20 minutes with seven saves.

It was much of the same in the middle frame with St. Michael’s holding a large edge in the shots on goal department totaling 48 to just 13 for the T-Birds after 40 minutes.

The Buzzers were finally rewarded for their constant pressure as Jordan Merante wristed a shot from the slot that Horordziejczyk managed to get a piece of, but not quite enough, as the puck squirted through between his blocker and body and just slid across the goal line for the initial tally of the contest.

OJHL playoff most valuable player Conacher extended the Buzzers lead early in the third as he one-timed a crisp pass from Merante going low blocker side on Horodziejczyk at 2:33.

Showing why he was listed in the latest National Central Scouting draft rankings, Troy Josephs added to the lead four minutes later as he wired one from the left face-off circle high into the top right hand corner making it 3-0.

Sault Ste. Marie’s Brandon Warmington dashed Ignagni’s shutout bid 17 seconds after Joseph’s marker as he found jammed in a rebound following a goal mouth scramble at 7:16.

Michael Neville added some insurance for the Buzzers as he darted around a Thunderbirds’ defender and neatly tucked a shot under the cross bar with six and half to go.

The game’s final minute saw the Sault inch closer as Adam Ritchie snapped in a quick shot from in close to round out the scoring.

Player of the game laurels, as chosen by the tournament committee, went to Merante of the Buzzers and Horodziejczyk of the Thunderbirds.

Final shots on goal in the contest favoured St. Michael’s 69-26.

Game 2 of the day goes at 7 p.m. as the host North Bay Trappers take on the Minnesota Wilderness, champions of the Superior International Junior Hockey League.

Round robin play continues Wednesday as Sault Ste. Maries takes on the Wilderness at 2:30 p.m. followed by St. Michael’s and North Bay at 7 p.m. back at Memorial Gardens.

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

Lightning Agree To Terms With 2011 Draft Pick D Nikita Nesterov

Press Release

The Tampa Bay Lightning have agreed to terms with defenseman Nikita Nesterov on a three-year, entry-level contract today, vice president and general manager Steve Yzerman announced.

Nesterov, 6-foot, 183 pounds, played in 35 games with Chelyabinsk Traktor of the KHL this season, recording 14 penalty minutes while averaging 12:21 in average ice time. He also appeared in 19 playoff games, recording four assists as Traktor lost to Dynamo Moscow in the Continental Cup Finals. Nesterov has played in 45 career KHL games, all with Traktor, recording one assist.

A native of Chelyabinsk, Russia, Nesterov has represented his country in each of the previous two seasons. He played for Russia at the 2011 IIHF World Under-18 Championships, recording two goals and four points in seven games. Nesterov then played in last year’s IIHF World Junior Championships, skating in seven games and registering two goals and five points.

Nesterov, 20, was selected by Tampa Bay in the fifth round, 158th overall, of the 2011 NHL Entry Draft. He participated in the 2012 Lightning Development Camp at the Brandon Ice Sports Forum. Nesterov’s team, also made up of Vladislav Namestnikov, Slater Koekkoek and Cedric Paquette, took home the annual 3-on-3 tournament championship.


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

Red Deer Athletic Therapist Terence Robertson Steps Down

Press Release

RED DEER, AB – Brent Sutter, President/General Manager/Head Coach of the Red Deer Rebels Hockey Club, announced today athletic therapist Terence Robertson has resigned.  Robertson will leave the team after the Rebels Prospects camp May 31-June 2.

Robertson will begin his new position with Collegiate Athletic Therapy & Sports Medicine in June after the Rebels Prospects Camp. He was with the Rebels for nine years, starting in 2004.       

The Rebels will begin the search for a new athletic therapist immediately.

Brent Sutter –“I’d like to thank Terence for his nine seasons with the team. He has done a great job with our players over the years. We wish him well in his future endeavors. ”

Terence Robertson – “I’d like to thank the organization for giving me the opportunity to work in the Western Hockey League.  I truly enjoyed my time with the staff and players over the years.  But for family reasons, I’ve decided to take a job that keeps me closer to home during the winter.”


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

Hurricanes Ink Training Staff

Press Release

Lethbridge, AB – The Lethbridge Hurricanes announced Carolyn Glover, Bob Fretts and Steve Szilagyi have all signed one-year contracts to remain with the club for the upcoming season.

Hurricanes General Manager, Brad Robson says he’s excited to have all three return to the team for the upcoming season. “It gives us some stability especially with their experience. I’ve talked to the players, they all asked the questions and now those questions have been answered – yes, they’re all coming back for another year with the Hurricanes.”

Glover will be returning for her 6th season as the Hurricanes Head Trainer and Athletic Therapist while Assistant Trainer Fretts has been involved with the team since the beginning and Szilagyi will be entering his fourth year as Strength and Conditioning Coach.

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

Corkum Named Head Coach of 2013 U.S. Under-18 Select Team

Press Release


COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. - USA Hockey announced today that Bob Corkum (Salisbury, Mass.), interim head men's ice hockey coach at the University of Maine, has been named head coach for the U.S. Under-18 Select Team that will compete in the 2013 Ivan Hlinka Memorial Tournament.

Corkum served as an assistant coach for the 2012 U.S. Under-18 Select Team and was the head coach for the 2011 U.S. Under-17 Select Team that won the Five Nations Tournament with a perfect 4-0-0-0 record in Ann Arbor, Mich.

Corkum, who played college hockey at Maine (1985-89), returned to his alma mater in August of 2008 as its associate head men's ice hockey coach.

Prior to that, he was associate head coach of the New Hampshire Junior Monarchs of the Eastern Junior Hockey League from 2006-08. He helped the Junior Monarchs capture the Tier III Junior A national championship in both 2007 and 2008. The Monarchs were also co-EJHL regular-season champions in 2008, and finished as EJHL regular-season and playoff champions in 2007.

Corkum was drafted by the National Hockey League’s Buffalo Sabres in 1986 and went on to play 720 games in the NHL for seven teams across 12 seasons. He finished his professional career with 97 goals and 103 assists for 200 points and appeared in the Stanley Cup Finals with the New Jersey Devils in 2001.


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

Whalers’ Vellucci is OHL Coach of Year

Press Release

Toronto, ON – The Ontario Hockey League today announced that Plymouth Whalers Head Coach Mike Vellucci is the 2012-13 recipient of the Matt Leyden Trophy awarded annually to the OHL’s Coach of the Year.

Vellucci guided the Whalers to their 12th division title in franchise history with a 42-17-5-4 record for 93 points.  The 2012-13 West Division title marks his sixth in 12 years behind the bench for the Whalers who made the playoffs for a record 22nd consecutive season.

"I'm proud of our kids,” said Vellucci.  “They competed very hard and didn't give up.  I believe in these guys and they believe in themselves. They're not quitters and they wanted to win a championship.”

Vellucci earns Coach of the Year honours for the second time in his career winning previously in 2007, the same season the Whalers captured the Robertson Cup as OHL Champions.  The 46-year-old from Farmington, Michigan, remains the only American-born coach to win the award.  He currently has an all-time record of 440-278-40 for a .607 winning percentage and ranks 11th on the OHL’s all-time wins list.

“He’s been my coach for four years,” said Whalers captain Colin MacDonald.  “He can be tough, but he knows when to push guys.  His results don’t lie and he’s continued to be a great coach year after year and always puts together successful teams.  I’m really excited for him individually to win this award.”

Vellucci becomes the tenth coach in OHL history to win the award for a second time.  Previous multi-year award winners include Hockey Hall of Fame member Brian Kilrea of the Ottawa 67’s who has won the award a record five times (1981, 1982, 1996, 1997, 2003).  Dale Hunter has won the award three times behind the London Knights’ bench including back-to-back honours in 2004-05 and most recently in 2010.  Bert Templeton (Hamilton 1975 and North Bay 1994), Terry Crisp (Sault Ste. Marie 1983, 1985), George Burnett (Niagara Falls 1991, 1992), Gary Agnew (London 1993, 1998), Craig Hartsburg (Guelph 1995 and Sault Ste. Marie 2002), Peter DeBoer (Plymouth 1999, 2000), and Bob Boughner (Windsor 2008, 2009) have also each won the award twice.  Greg Gilbert of the Saginaw Spirit, a finalist for the award again this season, was last year’s recipient.

“He did a lot for me, personally,” said Whalers alternate captain Stefan Noesen.  “He believed in me when nobody else did.  He’s one of the best coaches who have ever worked in the league and you definitely learn a lot from him from start to finish.  Mike always seems to know the little bits and pieces (that) people need to know in order to be successful.  I think he knew right away (this season) that he had a great core group, and everyone got along.  So he needed to find players that could fit the puzzle, but at the same time, get along with everyone.”

The Matt Leyden Trophy is voted on by the member teams of the Ontario Hockey League. In a first round of balloting, teams vote for the top coaches, within their own conference. The top three nominees from both the Eastern and Western conferences are declared as finalists. A second round of voting is then conducted on a league wide basis where teams vote for any of the six finalists. At no time during the voting can a team vote for their own candidate. Coaches receive five points for a first place vote, three points for a second place vote and one point for a third place vote.

Vellucci finished with 45 points in the voting process ahead of George Burnett of the Belleville Bulls who received 39 voting points.  D.J Smith of the Oshawa Generals finished in third place with 33 voting points.

The Matt Leyden Trophy has been awarded annually since 1972 in recognition of the contributions of Matt Leyden, past President of the Ontario Hockey Association from 1965-1967. The Oshawa native was honored as a lifetime member of the OHA in 1972.

Vellucci will be formally presented with the award at the 2012-13 OHL Awards Ceremony taking place Tuesday June 4 at the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto, and will also be the OHL’s nominee for the Canadian Hockey League Coach of the Year.

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

Pontiacs Promote Rick Swan to Head Coach / GM

Press Release

The Bonnyville Pontiacs are pleased to announce the promotion of Rick Swan to Head Coach and General Manager.

Swan spent the 2012-13 season as the Pontiacs Associate Coach and Assistant General Manager after joining the club from the Knights of Columbus Midget AAA club in Edmonton where he had been the Head Coach since 2008-09. In 2009, Swan won the Glen Sather Trophy as the AMHL Coach of the Year.
"I learned a lot in the past year working with Chad Mercier, who I consider one of the best coaches in the country," said Swan. "As Head Coach I hope to continue the tradition of producing one of the hardest working teams in the Alberta Junior Hockey League."

"Rick has demonstrated to the organization an ability to connect with players, fans, staff and the community," explained Pontiacs President Don Sydora. "We have high expectations as an organization and we believe Rick has the ability to deliver on those expectations."

The Pontiacs and Swan have agreed to a three year contract extension.  An announcement regarding an Assistant Coach is will be made within the next fortnight.

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

Rangers Sign Blaisdell

Press Release

Kitchener Rangers Head Coach and General Manager Steve Spott announced today that the team has signed Doug Blaisdell, the team’s third-round pick in the 2013 Priority Selection to an Ontario Hockey League contract.

Described by Rangers scouts as a hard-nosed defensive defenseman with great size and skating ability, Blaisdell played 21 games with the Detroit Honeybaked U16s in 2012-13, recording 10 points and 18 penalty minutes.


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

Steelheads Receive Award of Distinction

Press Release

Mississauga, ON – The Mississauga Steelheads were honoured at aNahani Way Public School ‘superstars assembly’ on Friday morning for their continued involvement in the Mississauga community. As part of Education Week, the Steelheads were selected to receive an Award of Distinction for their unique contributions to public education in Peel and to the Peel community.

Education week focuses on recognizing those who make a difference by making the school system a great place to work and learn. Nahani Way Vice Principal, Michael Dzis has recognized the Mississauga Steelheads as a “great partner in promoting positive citizenship. They joined us at our open house and we joined them at the School Day hockey game to enjoy our national sport. Throughout the season, students who demonstrate Nahani Way values and Peel character traits are nominated to win a pair of tickets to a Steelheads game through the Steelheads Adopt-A-School program. There have been 70-100 students nominated each month. We appreciate the support in recognizing and encouraging successful positive citizenship!”

The Steelheads are a community-driven organization, and are committed to growing our involvement in the school system through a number of great programs. Thank-you to Nahani Way P.S. and the rest of the Peel District School Board for this award!
  
The Steelheads offer a number of unique school programs including their National Anthem Program, School Day Game, High School Hockey Shootout and the Design the Mask Contest. For information on how your school can become involved in one of the Steelheads school programs, visit their website www.mississaugasteelheads.com


Season tickets for the 2013-14 season are now available. Save with early bird pricing before May 31st!


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

Vancouver Giants Release Recruiting Video

Press Release

In a continued effort to attract the very best talent to our program, the Vancouver Giants have released today a video highlighting the benefits of becoming a Vancouver Giant.

The video features commentary from some of the organization's most prominent alumni, including Milan Lucic, Evander Kane & Cody Franson, as well as messages from members of the ownership group, including Ron Toigo, Pat Quinn, and Lewis & Michael Bublé.

It showcases former Giants who have gone on to the National Hockey League, as well as those who have taken advantage of the WHL Scholarship Program upon the conclusion of their WHL careers.

The video will be made available to all current Giants prospects and to all players considering joining our program in the future.

Its release coincides with the 2013 WHL Bantam Draft, which is set to take place on Thursday, May 2 at 7:30am PDT.

The Giants have the first overall pick in this year's Bantam Draft, as well as seven more picks in the first three rounds.

The video can be seen HERE.


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

Pistons fall short to Surrey

Press Release

Despite their never-say-die attitude, Steinbach Pistons dropped a disappointing 5-3 decision to Surrey Eagles Monday night in Nanaimo.

 Pistons now find themselves 0-2 at the Crescent Point Energy Western Canada Cup, earning a day off on Tuesday to regroup before two critical games later this week. Pistons then take on Brooks Bandits on Wednesday and host Nanaimo on Thursday.

The top four teams at the WCC advance to playoff round, with the last-place finisher eliminated.

“We felt we had an opportunity to make a comeback,” Pistons Head Coach Paul Dyck told AM-1250 Radio. “A 3-1 lead is not the most comfortable lead in hockey. We made a late run; I thought we had a chance to win the game.”

Falling behind 2-0 after the first period to Surrey was a stumble the Pistons were hoping to avoid. Only a day before the Pistons were down 2-1 to Yorkton Terriers. Dyck admitted the slow starts hurt his club.

“We started sluggish both games,” he said. “Maybe it’s a lack of focus. We need a good start, and getting back to our brand of hockey. Good things will start to happen.”

Before about 700 fans at the Frank Crane Arena, Pistons rallied on a number of occasions to test the BCHL champions. Pistons’ captain Kyle Rous pulled the MJHL champions to within a goal – 4-3 – scoring a powerplay goal midway through the third period. But the rally would end when Surrey scored an empty-net goal with 43 seconds remaining in the final period.

On a positive note, Pistons were led by the line of Trent Genyk, Tyler Penner and Nick Kolbela. The Piston trio recorded a total of five points. Both Genyk (second goal of the WCC) and Kolbela scored goals, with the rookie Penner earning a pair of assists.

Penner, who joined the Pistons from AAA midget Winnipeg Thrashers, hasn’t looked out of place at this tournament. He was named the game’s second star for his efforts.

“Tyler has been outstanding,” Dyck said of the 17-year-old Winnipegger. “He just keeps getting better and better. He’s brought a lot of energy and a lot of good habits. He’s effective at this level.”

Dyck admitted the tournament doesn’t get easier for his club.

“They’re a skilled group,” Dyck said of Brooks Bandits. “We have to bring pace to that game and play our game. It’s going to come down to work ethic, and the boys’ willingness to play a solid 60 minutes.”

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

Fraser keys Clips offence in early going at WCC, wins POW

Press Release

 Nanaimo Clippers forward Greg Fraser has been named the BCHL Player of the Week for the week ending April 28, the league announced Monday.

Fraser had a goal and an assist and was named Player of the Game in Sunday's 7-2 victory over the Brooks Bandits as the Clippers evened their record at 1-1 in the Crescent Point Energy Western Canada Cup. The hometown Nanaimo product also had a goal in the Clippers' opening-night 4-3 loss to the Yorkton Terriers.

The 20-year-old is currently in a tie for second in goals and points at the WCC.

Honourable mentions this week go to:

Nanaimo Clippers D Colton Dahlen (1G 2A)

Surrey Eagles F Brady Shaw (1G, Player of the Game)

Nanaimo Clippers F Trevor Fitzgerld (1G 1A, Player of the Game)

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

JONES DENNY’S WHL PLAYER OF THE WEEK

Press Release

Calgary, AB -The Western Hockey League announced today that Portland Winterhawks defenceman Seth Jones is the Denny’s WHL Player of the Week.   

Jones tallied 4 points on two goals and two assists while posting an even +/- rating in three games over the past week as the Winterhawks posted a 2-1 record to defeat the Kamloops Blazers in the Kal Tire WHL Western Conference Championship series.   

On Tuesday, April 23rd, Jones picked up an assist on his team’s only goal as the Winterhawks fell 5-1 win to the Blazers in Kamloops in Game 3 of the Kal Tire WHL Western Conference Championship series.  On Wednesday, April 24th, Jones tallied a goal and an assist while earning 3rd Star honors to help the visiting Winterhawks shut out the Blazers 3-0 in Game 4 of the best-of-seven series.  On Friday, April 26th, Jones scored a power play goal as the Winterhawks captured the Kal Tire WHL Western Conference Championship with a 4-1 win over the Blazers in Portland, OR.

Jones, an 18-year-old product of Plano, Texas, is in his first season in the WHL with the Winterhawks.  The 6’4”, 206-lb rearguard currently ranks third among all WHL defencemen in playoff scoring with five goals and 13 points in 15 games.  Jones is the top-ranked North American skater in NHL Central Scouting’s final rankings for the 2013 NHL Draft.  He is also the Western Conference finalist for the 2013 WHL Rookie of the Year award after putting up 14 goals and 56 points in 61 games for the Western Conference Champion Hawks.

The WHL has also nominated Mac Carruth of the Portland Winterhawks for the CHL Goaltender of the Week award.  Carruth posted a 2-1 record with a shutout in three starts this past week to lead the Winterhawks to a 4-1 best-of-seven series victory over the Kamloops Blazers in the Kal Tire WHL Western Conference Championship series.  Carruth allowed six goals on 81 shots for a 2.01 goals-against average and a .926 save percentage in that span.  Carruth, a product of Shorewood, MN, is a Chicago Blackhawks prospect.

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

TOURNAMENT AND BATTLE CAMPS WITH THE VICTORIA GRIZZLIES

Press Release

Tactical & Technical Development, Battles & Competition Training.
July 29-Aug.3 at Archie Browning Arena for Peewee - Junior levels

Develop your tactical & technical skills in the morning and compete in games for the afternoon.
This week long camp will consist of 2 - 1.5 hr. on-ice sessions a day with off-ice training options.
Players will be placed in age and skill correlated mini teams and will compete against equal calibre teams.

Themed, skill-specific morning sessions willinclude power skating instruction, plus shooting, passing, stickhandling and checking clinics. Improve your speed and agility, shot, finesse and puck control. Also work on developing your tactical game and practice skills that apply to your position. Specific drills for forwards, defensemen and goalies.  Afternoon competitions will consist of games in scrimmage formation and mini games.

Registration Info
Camp cost $385+gst
https://register.beanstream.com/scripts/registration.asp?form=2032

or register for both camps for only $500+gst
https://register.beanstream.com/scripts/registration.asp?form=2036

========================================================

Scrimmage Camps with the Victoria Grizzlies

2013 Summer Scrimmage Sessions at Juan de Fuca Arena
July: 15,16,18, 22, 23, & 25 

Scrimmage ice is designed to be age and skill appropriate so all players are challenged. Shifts are timed in order to keep the tempo up and as well players are put in age and skill appropriate shifts. The scrimmages are fun and challenging.

  • Peewee/Bantam Schedule; 6:00 - 7:30pm each night
  • Midget/Junior Schedule: 7:30 - 9:00pm each night
Registration Info
Camp cost $150+gst
https://register.beanstream.com/scripts/registration.asp?form=2031

or register for both camps for only $500+gst
https://register.beanstream.com/scripts/registration.asp?form=2036



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

Monday, April 29, 2013

Blaine Thomson Receives RBC Scholarship Award

Press Release

The Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League would like to congratulate Blaine Thomson of the Notre Dame Hounds of the SJHL on receiving the RBC Scholarship Award of $1,000.00.
Blaine was selected out the finalists from each Junior League of the CJHL.

Presenting Blaine with his Scholarship representing Blaine’s home town Assiniboia branch of the RBC from left to right are: Janet Heatcoat, Marla Brandon, Blaine Thomson, Sharon Schauenberg, Debbie Richards.


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

Brendan Mitchell Earns IBAM - MJHL Scholarship

Press Release

Brendan Mitchell, a 20 year old defenseman with the Selkirk Steelers, is this year’s recipient of the IBAM-MJHL Scholarship – a $2,000 award towards post-secondary education.

Originally from Stonewall, Brendan just completed his last season in the MJHL and had previously played three seasons with the Swan Valley Stampeders. “Brendan is a leader both on and off the ice and is a positive role model and contributing member of the community,” said Kim Davis, MJHL Commissioner. “He volunteers with the Canskate program and is a hockey camp instructor for Canlan Ice Sports. During the 2012-2013 season he was the captain of the Steelers.”

 Brendan plans to enrol in a CIS university in the fall of 2013 to study Kinesiology and hopes to begin a career as a personal trainer. The criteria for the IBAM-MJHL Scholarship award is the recipient must display outstanding hockey skills, good sportsmanship and commitment to the community. The MJHL salutes Brendan Mitchell for an exemplary Junior A hockey career and wishes him all the best in the CIS. A big ‘thank you’ to the Insurance Brokers of Manitoba for their continued support for Junior hockey.
 
(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)

Knights’ Domi is OHL Player of the Week

Press Release

Toronto, ON – The Ontario Hockey League today announced that forward Max Domi of the London Knights is the OHL Player of the Week for the playoff week ending April 28 after leading the league with 10 points in three games of the Rogers Western Conference Championship Series scoring four goals and six assists with a plus-minus rating of plus-2.

Domi collected three multi-point games last week helping the Knights win three straight games against the Plymouth Whalers to capture their second straight Wayne Gretzky Trophy as Western Conference Champions.  Domi picked up five points including two goals and three assists and was named first star of the 5-4 Game 5 series finale capped off by his heroic overtime winner just 20 seconds into the extra frame to clinch a berth for the Knights in the Rogers OHL Championship Series.  Domi also chipped in offensively in Plymouth scoring twice on Tuesday in a 6-4 win that gave the Knights a 2-1 series advantage, then picked up three assists on Wednesday in another 6-4 win for the Knights in Game 4.

Domi, an 18-year-old from Toronto, ON, is playing in his second OHL season with the Knights.  Currently tied for the lead in OHL Playoff scoring with 25 points in 14 games, Domi led the Knights in regular season scoring with 87 points in 64 games collecting 39 goals and 48 assists.  He is eligible for the 2013 NHL Draft and was recently listed 19th overall among North American Skaters by NHL Central Scouting in their Final Draft Rankings.

Also considered for the award this week was the Knights’ Alex Broadhurst with four goals and three assists for seven points in three games, and Zach Hall of the Barrie Colts who scored two goals and five assists for seven points in three games.  In goal, Malcolm Subban of the Belleville Bulls posted a 2-0-2-0 record with a goals-against-average of 2.49 and save percentage of .933.


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

Mooseheads, Drakkar President Cup Finals Schedule Set

Press Release

The Halifax Mooseheads will face the Baie-Comeau Drakkar in the QMJHL President Cup Finals starting this Friday, May 3rd and Saturday, May 4th for games 1 and 2.  Both games are a 7pm puck drop at the Halifax Metro Centre. A full schedule for the QMJHL President Cup Finals can be seen below.

Individual tickets for Games 1 and 2 of the QMJHL President Cup Finals are on sale Tomorrow morning, April 30th at 10am at the Ticket Atlantic Box Office, select Superstore Outlets, www.ticketatlantic.com or by phone at 451-1221. Service charges may apply.

QMJHL President Cup FInals: Halifax Mooseheads vs Baie-Comeau Drakkar:

Game 1: Friday, May 3rd @7pm Halifax Metro Centre

Game 2: Saturday, May 4th @ 7pm Halifax Metro Centre

Game 3: Tuesday, May 7th @ 8:30pm Centre Henry-Leonard

Game 4: Wednesday, May 8th @ 8:30pm Centre Henry-Leonard
Game 5: Friday, May 10th @ 7pm Halifax Metro Centre *

Game 6: Sunday, May 12th @ 3pm Centre Henry-Leonard*

Game 7: Monday, May 13th @ 7pm Halifax Metro Centre *

All times Atlantic Time.

* If Necessary

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

Prospect Ty Comrie Signs with Americans

Press Release

Kennewick, WA – Tri-City Americans Governor/General Manager Bob Tory announced today that the club has signed 15-year-old prospect Ty Comrie to a standard WHL Players Contract.

Comrie, a 5’11 150-pound forward from Newport Beach, California, recently concluded his first season with the Los Angeles Jr. Kings of the Tier 1 Elite Hockey League.  In 35 games this season, Comrie finished second in team scoring, compiling 23 goals, 49 points and 15 penalty minutes, as well as 14th overall in the league scoring race.

Comrie, the younger brother of current Americans’ goaltender, Eric Comrie, was originally selected by Tri-City in the 3rd round (61st overall) of the 2012 WHL Bantam Draft.  With Comrie’s addition, the Americans have now signed their first five draft picks from the 2012 class, which includes Parker Wotherspoon (D), Braden Purtill (F), Tyler Fraser (D) and fellow LA Jr. Kings’ teammate, Evan Sarthou (G).

“We are pleased that Ty and his family have chosen our organization to pursue his hockey ambitions,” explained Tory.  “Ty is an elite talent at the 1997-age group, turning down 5 NCAA scholarship opportunities to join our program, and continues to make rapid improvements to his overall game.  He is gifted with offensive creativity and, since being drafted, continues to excel among his peers as he has gained size and strength.”

Tory continued by saying that, “(Ty) is a first round talent and we are pleased to add him to a strong 1997 draft class of players already committed to our program.”

“I’m very excited to play in this great organization,” said Comrie.  “Coach Hiller is a coach that pushes his players hard, but is always fair.  It will be awesome to play with my brother, Eric.”

Ty and Eric are the younger brothers of former NHL forward Mike Comrie, who left the University of Michigan after two seasons to play for Tory and the Kootenay Ice during the 2000-01 season.  Mike played in over 580 NHL games, amassing 168 goals and 365 points between stops with Edmonton, Philadelphia, Phoenix, Ottawa, the New York Islanders and the Pittsburgh Penguins.  The Comrie’s other brother, Paul, was drafted by the Tampa Bay Lightning in the 1997 NHL Draft and played four seasons at the University of Denver, earning first team WCHA All-Star honors in 1999.  He was later dealt to and made his NHL debut with his hometown Edmonton Oilers before his career was cut short due to injury.


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

PRINCE GEORGE COUGARS: Sign Shane Collins

Press Release

The Prince George Cougars Hockey Club is pleased to announce the signing of 1997-born defenceman Shane Collins (Rosetown, SK) to a standard Western Hockey League contract. Collins is a right-handed shot who stands 6’1” and weighs 160 pounds. He was drafted by the Cougars in the third round (62nd overall) in the 2012 WHL Bantam Draft. 

Last season Collins dressed in 39 games with the Moose Jaw Generals (SMAAAHL) where he scored four goals, 24 points and added 16 penalty minutes. He added one assist in four playoff games. Collins represented Saskatchewan at the 2012 Western Canada U-16 Challenge Cup and scored a goal in Saskatchewan’s bronze medal victory over Manitoba. 

Collins is the second defenceman and sixth player from the Cougars 1997 draft-class who has signed a contract. The other signed players include: Jansen Harkins, Brad Morrison, Tate Olson, Aaron Boyd, and Matt Kustra.

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

WHL ANNOUNCES CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES DATES

Press Release

Calgary, AB – The Western Hockey League has announced the schedule for the 2013 WHL Championship Series between the Kal Tire WHL Western Conference Champion Portland Winterhawks and the winner of the Husky WHL Eastern Conference Championship series between the Edmonton Oil Kings and Calgary Hitmen.

2013 WHL CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES
PORTLAND vs. EDMONTON/CALGARY

(Series O)

Game 1 - Friday May 3 7:00pm Edmonton/Calgary at Portland (Rose Garden)
Game 2 - Saturday May 4 7:00pm Edmonton/Calgary at Portland (Rose Garden)
Game 3 - Tuesday May 7 7:00pm Portland at Edmonton/Calgary
Game 4 - Wednesday May 8 7:00pm Portland at Edmonton/Calgary
Game 5 - Friday May 10 7:00pm Edmonton/Calgary at Portland (Rose Garden)*
Game 6 - Sunday May 12 4:00pm Portland at Edmonton/Calgary*
Game 7 - Monday May 13 7:00pm Edmonton/Calgary at Portland (Rose Garden)*

*If Neccessary

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

NAHL, NA3HL mourns the loss of Andrew Pitts

Press Release

 The North American Hockey League (NAHL) and North American 3 Hockey League (NA3HL) lost one of its recent alumni over the weekend.  Andrew Pitts, 20, who played two seasons in the NAHL for the Coulee Region Chill in 2010-11 and 2011-12, and then for the NA3HL’s North Iowa Bulls later in the 2011-12 season, passed away on Friday night.  The NAHL and NA3HL extends its thoughts and prayers to the Pitts family.

The listed the cause of death was accidental drowning.

Pitts, a defenseman from Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, appeared in 73 NAHL regular season games over the course of two seasons with the Chill.  He recorded one goal and 12 assists in his NAHL career.  He played in seven games for the North Iowa Bulls at the end of the 2011-12 regular season, recording five assists.
Coulee Region Chill Owner/Governor Michelle Bryant released the following statement: “The Chill organization is deeply saddened by the sudden death of Andrew.  Andrew was an integral part of our team and the success we had our first year here in the Coulee Region.  His smile and infectious personality is one our players, staff and fans came to love.  We will miss him dearly and were honored to be a part of his short life.  Our deepest condolences go out to his family and all those who knew and loved Andrew.  He will be dearly missed.”

Current North Iowa head coach and former Chill assistant coach Todd Sanden released the following statement:  "Andrew was an outstanding player who made an immediate impact when he joined the Bulls late last season. Andrew's impact has been evident on every team he has played for, including when I had him as a member of the Coulee Region Chill. Andrew was a player who loved the game of hockey and even more than that, the teammates he shared the battles with. Andrew was a fun loving kid who was quick with a chirp and his wit kept the room light. Andrew it was my pleasure to be a brief part of your way too short life. I wish Andrew's family, loved ones and former teammates the deepest sympathy in this very sad time."

There will be a celebration of Andrew's life on Saturday, May 4, 1-5 PM at Brooklyn Park Activity Center, 5600 85th Ave, Brooklyn Park, MN.  He is survived by parents, Al & Jenny Stroh; and brothers, Jordan, Tyler.


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

Rogers OHL Championship Series Schedules

Press Release

Toronto, ON - The Ontario Hockey League today announced the two schedule scenarios for the 2013 Rogers OHL Championship Series.

The final series for the Robertson Cup opens Friday May 3 at Budweiser Gardens with the host London Knights who captured the Wayne Gretzky Trophy as Western Conference Champions against the winner between the Belleville Bulls and the Barrie Colts.

The Bulls and the Colts are currently tied 3-3 in their best-of-seven series for the Bobby Orr Trophy with Game 7 of the Rogers Eastern Conference Championship series scheduled for Monday April 29 in Belleville.
Both Rogers Championship Series schedule scenarios are as follows:

ROGERS CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES (IF BELLEVILLE WINS)
               
Series
"H"
LONDON (1)   vs.   BELLEVILLE (1)
   
               
Fri.,
May
3
at
London
7:05
   
Sun.,
May
5
at
London
2:05
   
Tue.,
May
7
at
Belleville
7:05
   
Wed.,
May
8
at
Belleville
7:05
   
Fri.,
May
10
at
London
7:05
*
 
Sun.,
May
12
at
Belleville
2:05
*
 
Mon.,
May
13
at
London
7:05
*
 
               
*if necessary
ROGERS CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES (IF BARRIE WINS)
               
Series
"H"
LONDON (1)   vs.   BARRIE (2)
   
               
Fri.,
May
3
at
London
7:05
   
Sun.,
May
5
at
London
7:05
   
Mon.,
May
6
at
Barrie
7:35
   
Wed.,
May
8
at
Barrie
7:35
   
Fri.,
May
10
at
London
7:05
*
 
Sat.,
May
11
at
Barrie
7:35
*
 
Mon.,
May
13
at
London
7:05
*
 
               
*if necessary
Follow the 2013 OHL Playoffs online at www.ontariohockeyleague.com.


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

OHL Announces Disciplinary Action

Press Release

Toronto, ON - The Ontario Hockey League today announced the results of a review of an incident which took place in a game played in Barrie on the 27th of April, 2013 involving the Colts and the visiting Belleville Bulls Hockey Club.

The incident reviewed was a checking from behind infraction involving player Jake Dotchin of the Barrie Colts Hockey Club.

Based on a review of the incident, it is the position of the League that player Jake Dotchin shall be suspended for five (5) games effective immediately.


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

Rangers Sign Davies

Press Release

Kitchener Rangers Head Coach and General Manager Steve Spott announced today that the team has signed Michael Davies, the team’s first round pick in the 2013 Priority Selection to an Ontario Hockey League contract.

Listed at 6-foot-1 and 201 pounds, Davies recorded 73 points in 61 games playing for the Southern Tier Admirals in 2012-13. The Thorold, ON native is described by Rangers scouts as an elite scorer with high end skill, good size and strong hockey sense.

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

Telus Cup silver medalist Medric Mercier commits to Greyhounds

Press Release

The Soo Greyhounds Hockey Club is pleased to announce the signing of MEDRIC MERCIER to an OHL Standard Player Agreement and Education package with the club.

Originally selected in the 7th Round of the 2012 OHL Priority Selection by the Hounds, Mercier played the 2012-13 season with the Ottawa Jr. Senators Major Midget Hockey Club.

"We are very excited to formally announce the signing of Medric Mercier today and officially have him and his family join The Program. Throughout this season, Medric showed continued improvement in his game and a lot of the credit for that needs to go to Travis Crickard and the coaching staff with the Ottawa Jr 67's AAA Midget Club. Wes Clark, our Director of Player Development, thoroughly enjoyed working with that staff and with Medric throughout the season" began Greyhounds General Manager Kyle Dubas.

"Adding Medric to The Program adds further depth and potential amongst on our blue line, which you can never have enough of. We are especially impressed in the number of minutes that Medric logged at even strength and on the penalty kill versus the oppositions top players. Medric trains at the same place as Alex Gudbranson during the summer and Alex should serve as a great mentor for Medric. We feel that should Medric work diligently of his quickness and overall strength over the summer he will be most ready to maximize his potential come main training camp" Dubas concluded.

This past season the Gloucester, ON product appeared in twenty-eight regular season games compiling 13 goals and 9 assists to go along with 7 points (3 goals, 4 assists) in the post-season.
Mercier and the Jr. 67’s advanced to the Gold Medal game at the Telus Cup National Championship (held in Sault Ste. Marie).  At the tournament the 6’2”, 195-lb rearguard had four goals in seven games played.

Mercier is a late birthdate, by NHL Draft standards. Born after the September 15th cut-off date, Mercier is an October 17th birthday, meaning he is not eligible for the NHL Draft until 2015. David Miller, also of the 2012 Draft Class is also a late birth not eligible until the same year.

“Signing with the Hounds is definitely a huge accomplishment for me.  This is what I have been working for all year. I can't wait to get started with this great organization” stated Mercier.

Medric will be one of thirty-four players in town when Development Camp 2013 begins with registration and on-ice sessions beginning Friday, May 3rd.

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

Clippers take advantage of extended power play to down Bandits

Press Release

The Nanaimo Clippers allowed the first goal of the game but answered back big time on their way to a 7-2 win when Brooks Bandits forward Anthony Paskaruk was given a five-minute major and a game misconduct.

The Clippers tallied three times on the extended power play with Kyle Kramer, Josh Bryan and Brenden Forbes doing the damage.

Another man advantage early in the second led to a Reid Sturos goal and Nanaimo took a 4-1 lead. They wound up 4/6 on the power play for the evening.

Greg Fraser made it 5-1 before RJ Reed replied for Brooks. Trevor Fitzgerald and Mason Mitchell had third-period markers for Nanaimo. 

Maddison Smiley's goal opened the scoring for Brooks in the first.

The Bandits (1-1) next play on Tuesday at 2 p.m. against Yorkton (2-0).

The Clippers (1-1) hit the ice again on Tuesday at 7 p.m. against Surrey (0-1).

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

Under Armour and the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League ready for 2013 Combines

Press Release

The Quebec Major Junior Hockey League (QMJHL) and Under Armour (ULC) (NYSE:UA) announced today the pursuit of their partnership to test and develop some of Canada’s best prospects.

As such, Under Armour, a leader in sports performance apparel, footwear and accessories, and the QMJHL will welcome 120 draft-eligible players to the Centre d’Excellence Sports Rousseau in Boisbriand to submit them to rigorous on- and off-ice testing of their endurance, reaction times, speed, agility and strength.

The 120 participants originate from Hockey Canada’s five Branches which operate on the QMJHL territory. The players will then take part in the QMJHL Gatorade Excellence Challenge which begins on Friday, May 3rd and concludes on Sunday, May 5th. They will be divided into six teams. The Province of Quebec will be represented by two teams while Prince-Edouard-Island, Newfoundland/Labrador, New Brunswick and Nova Scotia will each have one team competing in the event.

Of note, key QMJHL scouts will attend the Combines to observe the athletes as they go through on- and off-ice testing.

"We are extremely excited to be able to count on the support of Under Armour for a third consecutive year at the Combines," said Marcel Patenaude, QMJHL Executive Vice-President. "This endeavour is benefical for our young prospects as it gives them a taste of the rigorous training practices that are necessary to hope to succeed at the next level."

Under Armour has been creating technical performance apparel for athletes since 1996, and is synonymous with hockey base layer apparel.  Current NHL stars including Mike Fisher (Predators), Henrik Zetterberg (Red Wings), Tyler Seguin (Bruins), Rick Nash (Blue Jackets), Phil Kessel (Maple Leafs) and Brad Richards (Rangers) are all part of the elite roster of Under Armour athletes.

About Under Armour
Under Armour® is a leading developer, marketer, and distributor of branded performance apparel, footwear, and accessories.  The brand's moisture-wicking fabrications are engineered in many different designs and styles for wear in nearly every climate to provide a performance alternative to traditional products. The Company's products are sold worldwide and worn by athletes at all levels, from youth to professional, on playing fields around the globe.  The Under Armour global headquarters is in Baltimore, Maryland, with European headquarters in Amsterdam's Olympic Stadium, and additional offices in Denver, Hong Kong, Toronto and Guangzhou, China.  For further information, please visit the Company's website at www.UA.com.

About QMJHL
The Quebec Major Junior Hockey League’s mission is to develop players for professional hockey while supporting them throughout their academic endeavours in order to mole them into responsible and educated citizens. It must offer high entertainment value within a profitable framework in order to ensure the continued success of its activities. For more information, please visit the league's website theqmjhl.ca

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

Easton named Official Equipment Supplier of the NAHL

Press Release

The North American Hockey League (NAHL) has announced that Easton has been named the Official Equipment Supplier of the NAHL. 

Easton will also serve as the Preferred Equipment Supplier of the Tier III Junior A North American 3 Hockey League (NA3HL) and the Tier I Midget North American Prospects Hockey League (NAPHL).  As part of the three-year agreement, Easton will be the exclusive provider of player hockey sticks, pants, gloves and helmets to the NAHL.

Easton Hockey continues to rank atop the industry in sticks and gloves and is growing faster in skates than any other company. It also offers a comprehensive collection of protective gear including helmets and pants. 

“Easton is the leader in the hockey equipment industry and we feel the partnership with the NAHL is a perfect match for both of us,” said NAHL commissioner Mark Frankenfeld. “As the NAHL annually develops so many high-end players for the opportunity to move onto the collegiate and professional levels, we want to make sure we are doing everything we can as a league to provide them with the best equipment, so they can perform at their best each time they step on the ice."

“We are excited to enter into this exclusive partnership with the NAHL,” said Jason Maxwell, Pro Team Services and NCAA Sales Manager of Easton Hockey. “The NAHL is a well-established league with a rich tradition and very important in the development process for many young players wanting to play college and professional hockey, and we look forward to working with these players. The NAHL has a good history in developing players and getting them ready for NCAA and pro leagues.”

Easton will sponsor the NAHL Stars of the Week and NAHL Forward and Defenseman of the Month awards, as well as the 2013 NAHL Robertson Cup Championship and All-Tournament Team. It will also sponsor the NA3HL Player of the Week and Player of the Month awards and will be recognized as a sponsor at all NAHL, NA3HL and NAPHL events.

Easton will also offer special team pricing and personal team service to every participating NA3HL and NAPHL team.  “Easton prides itself on being an industry leader in high performance technology for professional hockey players on down,” said Maxwell.  “This will also be a great opportunity to get the NA3HL and NAPHL players into some high performing products to help them reach higher goals and give Easton a broader base for exposure.”

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

Terriers are 2-0 at WCC after edging Steinbach

Press Release

Tyler Geibel was in on all three goals for the Yorkton Terrers as the Saskatchewan champs defeated the Steinbach Pistons of Manitoba 3-2 Sunday afternoon.

Geibel set up goals by Jeremy Johnson and Chase Norrish in the first period before Hayden Goderis responded for Steinbach.

The Pistons tied the game at 4:31 of the second on a tally from Trent Genyk but it was Geibel scoring the winner unassisted with just under two minutes to go in the middle frame.

Yorkton fired 13 shots each period on Corey Koop in the Pistons net while Dawson MacAuley made 31 saves for his second win for the Terriers.

Steinbach (0-1) plays again Monday at 7 p.m. against the Surrey Eagles (0-1).

Yorkton (2-0) is back in action Tuesday at 2 p.m. when they face the Brooks Bandits (1-0).

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

Stenerson to Attend Vermont

Press Release


Surrey, BC - The Surrey Eagles Hockey Club is pleased to announce that forward Michael Stenerson has committed to attend the University of Vermont, beginning in the 2013-2014 season.
 
The Surrey native had a strong season offensively, posting 19 goals and 35 assists in 55 games. Stenerson continued his excellent play throughout the BCHL Playoffs as he led the league in scoring with eight goals and 12 assists in 17 games.
 
"We're extremely excited for Michael to be going to a Hockey East school," said Eagles Head Coach and GM Matt Erhart. "He has really elevated his game in the second half of the season, and he was an integral part of our team's Fred Page Cup win."
 
The University of Vermont is located in the city of Burlington. The Catamounts play in the NCAA's Division I Hockey East Association. Stenerson will head to Vermont after previously decommitting from the University of Alaska Anchorage.
 
"Having a second opportunity at this is exciting for me and my family, and I'm really looking forward to going to Vermont," said Stenerson. "It's in Hockey East, and I was looking for a school in that conference. Going there with Michael Santaguida next year, and Drew Best the year after, will be pretty exciting."
 
Stenerson becomes the 10th member of the Eagles to commit to an NCAA school, joining Devon Toews (Quinnipiac, 2013), Michael Santaguida (Vermont, 2013), Craig Wyszomirski (Merrimack, 2013), Adam Tambellini (North Dakota, 2013), Dan O'Keefe (Yale, 2013), Brett Mulcahy (Holy Cross, 2014), Drew Best (Vermont, 2014), Demico Hannoun (Michigan Tech, 2014) and Jordan Klimek (Northern Michigan, 2014).
 
The Eagles would like to congratulate Stenerson on his accomplishment.



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

Sunday, April 28, 2013

GORDON BIDS FAREWELL TO SILVERBACKS

Press Release

The Salmon Arm SilverBacks are sad to announce that veteran Marketing Director Josh Gordon has tendered his resignation due to family reasons.

Gordon has served as the 'Backs Director of Marketing for the past two seasons after moving to the Shuswap during the 2010-2011 to become the Director of Ticket Sales.

SilverBack's General Manager Troy Mick says the front office has lost a great team member.

 "In many facets, Josh has been the face of the franchise for the better part of three years. His work during my time in Salmon Arm has been second to none; we couldn't ask for a better individual to represent this organization, both in the community, and at the league level. We are very sad to see him go but at the same time very grateful for his contributions to the organization and we are proud to support him in his future endeavors.

In a statement made on Tuesday, Gordon noted how much he's enjoyed his time in Salmon Arm, stating that the relationships created with the business partners, season ticket holders, volunteers and fans have been the pinnacle of his experience in Salmon Arm.

“It is with a heavy heart that I informed Troy Mick of my decision this morning. We started to build something very special this past season and I wish I could be here to see it come to fruition over the next few years. While I am sad to be leaving, Salmon Arm will always hold a special place in my heart. My wife and I were married on Mara Lake in the fall of 2011 and although I am an avid supporter of the Bleu, Blanc et Rouge I will continue to bleed purple from afar with a keen eye on the SilverBacks and all of Salmon Arm.

Josh's departure will become official on April 30th but he will remain in Salmon Arm to assist with the SilverBacks upcoming Spring Camp from May 3rd to 5th. Gordon will be moving back to Montreal to reunite with his wife after nearly 3 years of living in separate cities.

The organization would like to thank him deeply for his dedication and tireless work to solidify the SilverBacks as a premier club within the BCHL and the Shuswap.

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

Canada is the new top dog in U18

Press Release

 There's a new sheriff in town. Wrapping up a U18 tournament undefeated through seven games, Canada won the 2013 IIHF U18 World Championship gold medal 3-2 over defending champions USA.

Despite being outshot nearly three-to-one through two periods, Canada came into the third up 3-2 thanks to a late second period goal from Frederik Gauthier. For the US team, this was a familiar story, having been in the same situation against Russia in the semi-final before coming back and eventually winning that game in a shootout.

With the IIHF U18 World Championship trophy sitting between the benches awaiting the winner and time running out on a comeback attempt by Team USA, a penalty was called on Madison Bowey with 41 seconds left.

But, even though they pulled the goaltender for a 6-on-4 man advantage, the United States ran out of magic and couldn't get the tying goal, and the final whistle sounded as the Canadians cleared the bench and mobbed goaltender Philippe Desrosiers.

With the victory, Canada wins its third U18 World championship gold medal. The loss ends the United States’ four year consecutive U18 gold medal streak.

Although it was the States coming out with a lot of pressure on Philippe Desrosiers, Canada drew first blood midway through the first period. Desrosiers played excellent through the opening frame, stopping all 14 shots thrown his way by the Americans.

Nine minutes into the period, Nick Baptiste outmuscled two Finnish defenders for the puck just inside the U.S. blue line and passed it down to Laurent Dauphin, who beat goaltender Thatcher Demko through the legs with a deke for his fourth goal of the tournament.

Team USA broke through early in the second period. A wrist shot from the point by defenceman Connor Clifton made it through the crowd and caught Desrosiers with a high shot just above his glove to tie the game 1-1.

With the host team out of the medal round, Canada was enthusiastically adopted by the over 6,000-strong Russian crowd at the Bolshoy, chanting the country’s name after the tying goal by USA.

The Americans got the lead for a few minutes in the second, going up 2-1 with a nice goal from Mike McCarron, who came away with the puck after a battle in the corner of rink and fired it straight into the top corner of the Canadian net.

Canada answered right back with 7:12 left to go in the period as Madison Bowey jammed in a loose puck in front of the USA net, and went back up by a goal with a shot from Frederik Gauthier that beat Demko glove side. The shot from Gauthier, scored with under five minutes left in the period, would stand as the deciding goal as Desrosiers shut the door on the Americans the rest of the way.

Steven Santini, JT Compher, and Tyler Motte were awarded the Best Player honours for the USA. Connor McDavid, the tournament's leading scorer, defenceman Josh Morrissey, and Philippe Desrosiers were the Best Players for Canada.

After the game, the IIHF Directorate Awards were handed out:

Best Goaltender: Juuse Saros, Finland

Best Defenceman: Steven Santini, United States

Best Forward: Connor McDavid, Canada

Most Valuable Player: Connor McDavid, Canada

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

Finland wins U18 bronze

Press Release

 The boys in blue will get to leave Sochi with a little bronze around their necks.

Scoring two goals in the first period, Finland held on the rest of the way, defeating Russia 2-1 to claim the bronze medal at the 2013 IIHF U18 World Championship.

Kasperi Kapanen had the game-winning goal, and goaltender Juuse Saros made 24 saves to earn Best Player honours.

"We gave up too many penalties against Canada and in other games," said Kapanen. "And today we just took the odd-man rushes away and Russia didn't really have anything after that."

Down 2-1 in the third period, Russia needed to play its best hockey to get itself back in the game, as aside from a nice goal by Vladimir Tkachyov the team had all but sleepwalked through the first two periods. Part of the reason was the Finnish defence, which played cautiously throughout the game, limiting penalties and avoiding giving up odd-man rushes to the Russians.

Midway through the period, a scrum in front of the net got the home crowd screaming goal when it looked that Pavel Buchnevich had pushed the puck into the net. But the goal was waved off as the whistle blew before the puck had crossed the line.

Finnish goaltender Juuse Saros stood tall the rest of the way, denying the Russians on a number of great scoring opportunities. With under a minute left to go and the goaltender on the bench, an open shot by Tkachyov sailed wide over the net, the last chance the Russians would have to tie the game.

"It's really easy to say, he's the best player on our team," said Kapanen of Saros. "I could say he's the best goalie of the tournament, we certainly wouldn't have made it all this way without him."

Finland last won a U18 medal at the 2010 World Championship in Minsk, defeating Russia 5-1 to claim bronze.

Russia, going for its second bronze medal in three years, fell behind early on. Just 34 seconds into the game, Artturi Lehkonen got the puck in space and skated to the top of the right circle, firing a wristshot straight into the top corner.

A second goal from the Finns midway through the period silenced the home crowd at the Bolshoy. Following a clean faceoff win by Otto Rauhala, Kasperi Kapanen took a shot on net, Russian goaltender Igor Shestyorkin making the initial save but giving up a big rebound that went straight out and back onto Kapanen’s stick. Kapanen fired a second high shot from his knees, beating Shestyorkin this time glove side to put his team up 2-0.

A boarding penalty on Kapanen midway through the second period breathed new life into Russian offence, which up until that point had been stagnant.

A great deke by Vladimir Tkachyov putting the puck through the legs of defender Alex Lintuniemi and then past goaltender Juuse Saros brought the crowd back into the game and Russia within a goal, 2-1.

Finland, the champions of the first two U18 World Championships, adds a seventh medal to its U18 collection, and a fourth bronze. 

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

Late rally allows Terriers to complete comeback win over Clippers

Press Release

A pair of third-period goals allowed the Yorkton Terriers to pull out a come-from-behind 4-3 win over the Nanaimo Clippers Saturday night at the Crescent Point Energy Western Canada Cup.

The teams traded two goals each in the first with Jeremy Johnson and Tayler Thompson tallying for the Terriers and Greg Fraser and Matt Grant scoring for the Clips.

Early in the second, Colton Dahlen gave the host club a 3-2 lead going into the final frame and it looked like it might hold until Johnson got his second of the night at 13:11 of the third. Devon McMullen potted thw winner with just under four minutes to go.

Dawson MacAuley turned away 39 shots to get the win in the Yorkton crease while Derek Dun made 31 stops for Nanaimo.

Yorkton is in action Sunday, playing the Steinbach Pistons of Manitoba at 2 p.m. while the Clippers play the Brooks Bandits at 7 p.m. 

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

Bandits convincing in tournament-opening win over Eagles

Press Release

The No. 1-ranked team in Canada most of the year, the Brooks Bandits showed they were worthy of the praise with a 4-2 win over the Surrey Eagles in the opening game of the Crescent Point Energy Western Canada Cup.

Power-play goals in the second period by Mark Reners and RJ Reed gave the Bandits the margin they'd need as they held off the Eagles who staged something of a third-period rally.

Brady Shaw got Surrey on the board in the final frame but a penalty shot goal by Brooks' Cam Maclise restored the three-goal Bandits edge and essentially sealed the win. Drew Best had a late reply for Surrey.

Bandits netminder Michael Fredrick made 40 saves in the victory while Michael Santaguida turned aside 28 for Surrey.

The Eagles are next in action Monday at 7 p.m. when they take in the Steinbach Pistons of Manitoba.

The Bandits take the ice again Sunday at 7 p.m. when they face the host Nanaimo Clippers. 



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

NAPHL announces Top Prospect Tournament rosters and schedule

Press Release

The North American Prospects Hockey League (NAPHL) has announced the rosters for next month’s 2013 NAPHL Top Prospects Tournament, presented by Easton, which will be held from May 11-13 at the Dr Pepper StarCenter in Frisco, Texas.


The NAPHL Top Prospects Tournament is played in conjunction with the North American Hockey League’s (NAHL) Robertson Cup National Championship Tournament, which features each of the four divisional playoff champions from the NAHL competing for the USA Hockey Tier II Junior National Championship, along with the North American 3 Hockey League’s (NA3HL) Top Prospects Tournament, which will feature 80 top junior eligible players from the NA3HL.  

The event has quickly become one of the most highly-scouted events of its kind.  Last season, dozens of junior, NCAA and NHL scouts attended the combined event.

At the event, four teams representing four regions of the NAPHL – California, Central, East and Michigan - will each play four games. Each team consists of a 20-man roster (12 forwards, 6 defensemen and 2 goalies) as chosen by the NAPHL Top Prospects Tournament Selection Committee as nominated by the league’s 18 head coaches.  All the players in the NAPHL Top Prospects Tournament came from teams that played in the 18U Division this past season.

2013 NAPHL Top Prospects Schedule
May 11th: 8:00am – Team East vs. Team Michigan, 10:00am – Team Central vs. Team California, 4:00pm – Team Michigan vs. Team Central, 6:00pm – Team California vs. Team East

May 12th: 12:00pm – Team East vs. Team Central, 2:00pm – Team California vs. Team Michigan
May 13th: 8:00am - 3rd place vs. 4th place, 12:00pm - 1st place vs. 2nd place

For more information on the NAHL Robertson Cup National Championship Tournament including hotel, surrounding area information and things to do, visit www.robertsoncup.com


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

Fred Page teams determined

Press Release

The Fred Page Eastern Canadian Junior “A” Championship is set to go, May 1 – 5, at the Community Credit Union Arena in the Rath Eastlink Community Centre.

The participants have been finalized:
Central Canada Hockey League (CCHL) – Cornwall Colts, winner of the Bogart Cup
Quebec AAA Junior League (QJAAAL) – College Francais de Longueuil, winner of the NAPA Cup.
Maritime Junior League (MHL) – Summerside Capitals, winner of the Kent Cup
Host – Truro Bearcats
                       
                       
 
 
 
 
SCHEDULE
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
May 1
04:00
 
Cornwall Colts
      vs
Summerside Capitals
 
07:30
 
Opening Ceremony
 
 
 
08:00
 
College Longueuil
      vs
 Truro Bearcats
 
 
 
 
 
 
May 2
04:00
 
College Longueuil
      vs
Summerside Capitals
 
08:00
 
Truro Bearcats
      vs
Cornwall Colts
 
 
 
 
 
 
May 3
04:00
 
Cornwall Colts
      vs
College Longueuil
 
08:00
 
SummersideCapitals
      vs
Truro Bearcats
 
 
 
 
 
 
May 4
07:00
 
Semi Final       2nd
     vs
 3rd
 
 
 
 
 
 
May 5
02:00
 
Championship Game
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    Tickets available at ticketpro.ca


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