Tuesday, March 31, 2009

Fadden and Hackett take the honors

Press Release

Toronto, ON – The Canadian Hockey League today announced that forward Mitch Fadden of the Tri-City Americans is the Boston Pizza CHL Player of the Week for the week ending March 29. Fadden scored two goals and six assists for eight points in three games with a plus-minus rating of plus-5.

On Wednesday night Fadden and the Americans travelled to Everett for game three of their first round playoff series against the Silvertips tied 1-1. Fadden opened the scoring on the power play in the first period and would assist on the game-winner as first star in the 4-2 win. Fadden helped the Americans come from behind in game three Friday night with a second period assist that tied the game. In the third period he setup the game-winner and scored an insurance goal for three-points as second star of a 4-1 win. The Americans would wrap up the series in five games at home Saturday night with a 6-1 over the Silvertips with Fadden contributing three assists as third star of the game. Tri-City will now play the Kelowna Rockets in the Kal Tire WHL Western Conference semi-finals beginning Friday night.

Fadden, a 20-year-old from Salmon Arm, British Columbia, is in his fifth WHL season. He finished the regular season with 76 points including 37 goals and 39 assists. Through five playoff games he has two goals and seven assists for nine points. Fadden was selected at the 2007 NHL Entry Draft in the fourth round by the Tampa Bay Lightning.

Considered for the award from the OHL was Chris Terry of the Plymouth Whalers who scored five goals and four assists for nine points in three games. His week was highlighted by a hat-trick performance as first star in an 8-1 over the Sarnia Sting Saturday night in game five allowing the Whalers to advance to the second round of the OHL Western Conference playoffs. In the QMJHL, two-time award winner Yannick Riendeau powered the Drummondville Voltigeurs’ to a first round four-game series sweep over the Lewiston MAINEiacs scoring five goals and four assists for nine points in two games.

Press Release


Toronto, ON – The Canadian Hockey League today announced that Matt Hackett of the Plymouth Whalers is the ADT CHL Goaltender of the Week for the week ending March 29. Hackett, now a two-time winner of the award this season, posted a 3-0-0-0 record including a shutout win with an OHL-best goals-against-average of 0.67 and the top save percentage with a mark of .981.

The week began for Hackett and the Whalers tied 1-1 with the Sarnia Sting in their first round Western Conference playoff series. Tuesday night in Plymouth was the site for game three where the Whalers grabbed the series lead with a 5-1 win over the Sting. Hackett was named third star of the game with 47 saves, tying a season-high performance. His strong play between the pipes continued Thursday night where he was perfect making 27 saves for the 5-0 shutout win as the game’s second star. The Whalers would close out the series on Saturday night with an 8-1 win with Hackett making 27 saves. The Whalers will now face the Windsor Spitfires in the second round of the Western Conference playoffs.

Hackett, a 19-year-old from London, Ontario, is in his third OHL season and first full year with the Whalers. He began his career with the Windsor Spitfires and joined the Whalers last season. Hackett currently leads all OHL goaltenders with a playoff goals-against-average of 0.98 and save percentage of .970.

Nominated from the QMJHL was Shawinigan Cataractes goaltender Timo Pielmeier who posted a 1.76 goals-against-average and .931 save percentage in two games. He backstopped the club to two overtime wins over the Victoriaville Tigres to advance to the second round of the playoffs. In the WHL, Tri-City Americans goalie Chet Pickard went 3-0-0-0 allowing just four goals on 79 shots for a 1.33 goals-against-average and a .949 save percentage. The Americans won their first round playoff series in five games over the Everett Silvertips.

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(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Draft Eligible players of the week

Sports Management Worldwide (SMWW) / International Scouting Services (ISS) 2009 Draft Prospect Performers of the Week presented by the Pipeline Show & Hockey Now ending Sunday, March 29, 2009.

Each week, International Scouting Services (ISS), Sports Management Worldwide (SMWW), Hockey Now, and The Pipeline Show recognize the Top Draft Eligible player from each of the WHL, OHL, QMJHL, & USHL leagues for the upcoming 2009 NHL Entry Draft based on their play over the course of the week. Players are nominated and the selected by graduates of the SMWW Hockey GM & Scouting with each of the winners receiving a gift acknowledging their selection.



ONTARIO HOCKEY LEAGUE – OHL

Ontario Hockey League – Matt Duchene, Brampton Battalion

Matt Duchene is this week’s OHL draft performer of the week after scoring 2 goals and adding 2 assists in 2 games for the Battalion who defeated Peterborough 4 – 0 in the first round of the OHL Playoffs. Duchene, a native of Haliburton, ON is known for his exceptional shot and speed.

Matt Duchene

Center

Born Jan 16 1991 -- Haliburton, ONT

Height 5.11 -- Weight 190 -- Shoots L


--- Regular Season --- ---- Playoffs ----

Season Team Lge GP G A Pts PIM GP G A Pts PIM

2007-08 Brampton Battalion OHL 64 30 20 50 22 5 1 1 2 10

2008-09 Brampton Battalion OHL 57 31 48 79 42

2008-09p Brampton Battalion OHL 2 2 2 4 2


WESTERN HOCKEY LEAGUE – WHL

Western Hockey League – Brayden Schenn, Brandon Wheat Kings

Brayden Schenn takes this week’s WHL award after scoring twice and adding a pair of assists in 2 games. Schenn has 4 goals and 4 assists in 4 games in the Playoffs this season which saw Brandon sweep Kootenay to advance to the upcoming second round. Schenn, a native of Saskatoon, SK is a top rated forward for the upcoming draft and is known for his ability to dominate physically and offensively.

Brayden Schenn

Center

Born Aug 22 1991 -- Saskatoon, SASK

Height 6.00 -- Weight 196 -- Shoots L


--- Regular Season --- ---- Playoffs ----

Season Team Lge GP G A Pts PIM GP G A Pts PIM

2007-08 Brandon Wheat Kings WHL 66 28 43 71 48 6 2 1 3 14

2008-09 Brandon Wheat Kings WHL 70 32 56 88 82


QUEBEC MAJOR JUNIOR HOCKEY LEAGUE – QMJHL

Quebec Major Junior Hockey League – Dmitry Kulikov, Drummondville Voltigeurs

Dmitry Kulikov wins this week’s QMJHL award after registering 5 assists in 2 games against Lewiston. Kulikov had a strong regular season, recording 62 points and is currently amongst the QMJHL playoff scoring leaders with 1 goal and 12 points. Kulikov, a Russian native is known as an aggressive defenseman who likes to jump into the play whenever possible.

Dmitri Kulikov

Defense

Born Oct 29 1990

Height 6.01 -- Weight 195 -- Shoots L

--- Regular Season --- ---- Playoffs ----

Season Team Lge GP G A Pts PIM GP G A Pts PIM

2008-09 Drummondville Voltigeurs QMJHL 57 12 50 62 46

2008-09p Drummondville Voltigeurs QMJHL 4 1 11 12 4

UNITED STATES HOCKEY LEAGUE – USHL

United States Hockey League – Shane Berschbach, Indiana Ice

Shane Berschbach is this week’s USHL nominee after scoring 2 goals in a game vs. Chicago earlier this past week. Berschbach is in his first season in the USHL and 42 points in 54 games this season. The native of Clawson, MI is a good skater who is not afraid of playing in tough areas despite his small stature.

Shane Berschbach

Forward

Born May 19 1991 -- Clawson, MI

Height 5.08 -- Weight 135

--- Regular Season --- ---- Playoffs ----

Season Team Lge GP G A Pts PIM GP G A Pts PIM

2008-09 Indiana Ice USHL 54 19 23 42 14




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About International Scouting Services (ISS)

International Scouting Service’s (ISS) goal is to offer the highest quality scouting information to hockey clubs through the dynamic integration of hockey experts, scouting procedures and state-of-the-art technology. We know that this mission is not only achievable - it is well within our grasp.

ISS is an international enterprise, in the business of scouting, evaluating, analyzing and ranking young bantam, midget and junior aged hockey players wherever hockey is played. ISS uses an exciting combination of traditional scouting methods along with the most advanced technology to arrive at quality and efficient results on these players.

Among the number of ISS products are: Annual NHL Draft Guide, Annual OHL, WHL and QJMHL Draft Previews, Annual CHL Import Draft Preview, Monthly NHL Draft Report, Monthly Future Stars Report

For more information on International Scouting Services and other products and services that it provides please visit their website at www.isshockey.com.

(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Czech Republic's Roster

Hfboards

Goalies:
NOVOTNY Filip -91 Sparta Prague
MAZANEC Marek -91 HC Plzen
MRAZEK Petr -92 HC Vitkovice Ostrava

Defenders:
DOLEZAL Ondrej -91 HC Plzen
HORA Daniel -91 HC Litvinov
HORAK Oldrich -91 HC Zlin
JANK Bohumil -92 HC Mountfield
JERABEK Jakub -91 HC Plzen
KREJCI Daniel -92 HC Slavia Prague
MUSIL David -93 HC Dukla Jihlava
RUZICKA Dan -91 HC Plzen
SENKERIK Petr -91 HC Zlin
POLASEK Adam -91 HC Vitkovice Ostrava

Forwards:
CULEK Jakub -92 HC Plzen
HAVLIK Adam -91 HC Znojmo
HERMAN Radim -91 HC Mountfield
HLINKA Michal -91 Chicoutimi Sagueneens
HONEJSEK Antonin -91 HC Zlin
HORAK Roman -91 HC Mountfield
KOLOUCH Petr -91 HC Vitkovice Ostrava
KUCSERA Lukas -91 HC Vitkovice Ostrava
MAROSZ Rostislav -91 Ocelari Trinec
ORSAVA Jakub -91 Ocelari Trinec
PALAT Ondrej -91 HC Vitkovice Ostrava
POLETIN Michal -91 HC Slavia Prague
RACHUNEK Tomas -91 Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds
SKALICKY Daniel -91 HC Liberec Bili Tygri
SLAHAR Jakub -91 HC Zlin
STRAKA Petr -92 HC Plzen
TUMA David -91 Sparta Prague

(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Monday, March 30, 2009

Updated Finland Roster

Hfboards

Goalies(3):
Erno Suomalainen, Blues
Joni Ortio, TPS
Veli-Heikki Mäenalanen, Tappara

Defenders(8):
Mikael Aaltonen, TPS
Tommi Kivistö, Red Deer Rebels
Lauri Kärmeniemi, HPK
Rasmus Rissanen, KalPa
Sami Vatanen, JYP
Joonas Hurri, Pelicans
Ville Hyvärinen, KalPa
Risto Mattila, Kärpät

Forwards(14):
Mikael Granlund, Kärpät
Erik Haula, Shattuck St Marys
Joni Karjalainen, HIFK
Janne Kumpulainen, JYP
Jere Laaksonen, Lukko
Joonas Nättinen, Blues
Teemu Pulkkinen, Jokerit
Toni Rajala, Ilves
Valtteri Virkkunen, Blues
Iiro Pakarinen, KalPa
Jesse Mankinen, SaiPa
Joonas Donskoi, Kärpät
Jaakko Turtiainen, HIFK
Teemu Tallberg, HIFK


(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

The Program

The Program

(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Players of the Week

Sorry for the delayed postings my lab top battery died and now have to use computers at the school for the next week.

Press Release

Toronto, ON – The Ontario Hockey League today announced that forward Chris Terry of the Plymouth Whalers is the Boston Pizza OHL Player of the Week for the week ending March 29. In three games, Terry scored five goals and four assists for nine points with a plus-minus rating of plus-5.

Terry and the Whalers entered the week tied 1-1 with the Sarnia Sting in their first round Western Conference playoff series. Game three took place Tuesday night in Plymouth and Terry had his most productive offensive night of the week with four points including three in the first period. He set up the eventual game-winner and counted two goals in the first frame and added a third period assist as second star of the 5-1 win. Game four went Thursday night in Sarnia where Terry recorded two assists in the 5-0 Whalers win. On Saturday night the Whalers put an exclamation point on their series win with an 8-1 victory over the Sting. Terry led the way scoring a hat-trick as first star of the game. The Whalers will now face the Windsor Spitfires in the second round of the playoffs beginning Thursday night.

Terry, a 19-year-old from Brampton, ON, is in his fourth OHL season with the Whalers. He finished second in regular season league scoring with 39 goals and 55 assists for 94 points in 53 games. He has five goals and five assists for 10 points through five playoff games. Terry was selected in the fifth round of the 2007 NHL Entry Draft by the Carolina Hurricanes.

Marco Insam of the Niagara IceDogs scored four goals and three assists for seven points in three games receiving consideration for this award. Insam had two goals Saturday night including the game-winner as first star in a 4-3 win over the Ottawa 67’s to put the IceDogs ahead 3-2 in their first round playoff series. Cameron Gaunce of the Mississauga St. Michael’s Majors also had seven points including three goals and four assists and was named first star in the Majors series-ending triple overtime win over the Barrie Colts 4-3 on Saturday night. Gaunce had two goals and one assist in the win. Between the pipes, Matt Hackett of the Plymouth Whalers posted three wins with one shutout and a league-best goals-against-average and save percentage of 0.67 and 0.981 respectively.

Press Release

CALGARY, AB. - The BOSTON PIZZA WHL Player of the Week is forward Mitch Fadden of the Tri-City Americans.

Fadden picked up eight points, scoring two goals and six assists to go with a +5 rating in three games over the last week, helping the Tri-City Americans win their Kal-Tire 2009 WHL Western Conference Quarter-Finals best-of-seven series over the Everett Silvertips 4-1.

On Wednesday, March 25th, the Tri-City Americans’ opening round series shifted back to the Comcast Arena in Everett for games three and four versus the Silvertips, with the series tied 1-1. In game three Fadden picked up a goal and an assist as the Americans downed the ‘Tips 4-2 to jump out to a 2-1 series lead and was named the games 1st Star. In game four on Friday, March 27th, Fadden netted one goal and added two assists as the Americans took a strangle hold on the best of seven series 3-1 with their 4-1 victory. He was also named the games 2nd Star.

Game five of the opening round series was on Saturday, March 28th back at the Toyota Center in Tri-City. Fadden picked up three assists as the Tri-City Americans defeated the Everett Silvertips 6-1 and advance to the next round of the 2009 WHL Playoffs. He was also named the games 3rd Star. The Americans will now face the Kelowna Rockets in the Kal-Tire WHL Western Conference Semi-Final starting Friday.

Fadden, a 20-year-old from Salmon Arm, British Columbia, is rounding out is fifth full season of play in the WHL in a career that began back in 2003 with the Seattle Thunderbirds. The Tampa Bay Lightning 4th round Draft pick in 2007 finished the WHL Regular Season 22nd among all WHL Scorers with 76 points (37 goals, 39 assists).

The WHL has also nominated Chet Pickard of the Tri-City Americans for the ADT CHL Goaltender of the Week Award. Pickard posted a 3-0-0-0 record this past week, allowing just four goal on 79 shots for a 1.330 goals-against average and .949 save percentage.

Pickard, a 19 year-old from Winnipeg, Manitoba, is playing in his fourth full season in the WHL and with the Tri-City Americans. The Nashville Predators 1st round Draft pick in 2008, finished the 2008-09 WHL regular season with 35 wins and was fifth among all WHL Goaltenders with a 2.28 GAA. Pickard was recently named a WHL Western Conference First Team All-Star and the WHL Western Conference nominee for WHL Goaltender of the Year.

BOSTON PIZZA WHL Player of the Week - 2009 WHL Playoffs
Mar. 23 – Mar. 29: Mitch Fadden, Tri-City Americans
Mar. 16 – Mar. 22: Matt Lowry, Brandon Wheat Kings

(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Slovakia's Roster

Press Release

Goalies:
Juraj Hollý ( HC Chomutov,Czech)
Tomáš Pék (HC Slovan Bratislava)
Juraj Šimboch (HK ARdo Nitra)-92

D-men:
Kristián Grman (HC Topoľčany)
Michal Imrich (Dukla Trenčín)
Tomáš Staňo (Dukla Trenčín)
Adam Jánošík (HC Liberec/Czech) -92
Peter Hraško (HKm Zvolen)
Ján Šeliga (MšHK Garmin Žilina)
Martin Marinčin (HC Košice) -92
Henrich Jaborník (HK 36 Skalica)

Forwards:
Miroslav Bobocký (HC Topoľčany)
Michael Vandas (HK Aquacity ŠKP Poprad)
Marek Hrivík (MšHK Garmin Žilina)
Juraj Petro (HC 05 Banská Bystrica)
Tomáš Daniška (Hk Ardo Nitra)
Matej Bene ( HK Ardo Nitra) -92
Peter Šišovský (MHC Martin)
Jakub Cíger (MHC Martin)
Juraj Majdán (HC Litvínov/Czech)
Tomáš Jurčo (HC Košice) - late 92
Jozef Kentoš (HC Ústí n. Labem /Czech)
Andrej Šťastný (Dukla Trenčín)

(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Sunday, March 29, 2009

Swiss Roster

Press Release

Goaltenders:
Conz Benjamin (Genève-Servette HC, 1991.09.13)
Sarkis Leon (ZSC Lions, 1991.01.19)

Defenders:
Camperchioli Luca (GCK Lions, 1991.01.22)
Erni Samuel (EV Zug, 1991.04.09)
Loeffel Romain (HC Fribourg Gottéron, 1991.03.10)
Maret Mathieu (HC Sierre, 1991.12.11)
Mettler Thomas (Kloten Flyers, 1991.04.29)
Steiner Nicholas (Kloten Flyers, 1991.06.28)
Trutmann Dario (EV Zug, 1992.09.17)

Forwards:
Antonietti Benjamin (Genève-Servette HC, 1991.07.07)
Bärtschi Sven (SC Langenthal, 1992.10.05)
Berger Nils (Rapperswill-Jona Lakers, 1991.01.02)
Engler Renato (HC Davos, 1991.08.22)
Haas Gaëton (EHC Biel, 1992.01.31)
Keller Samuel (Kloten Flyers, 1991.02.09)
Mc Gregor Ryan (GCK Lions, 1991.03.13)
Niederreiter Nino (HC Davos, 1992.09.08)
Rossi Matthias (EV Zug, 1991.01.09)
Schäppi Reto (GCK Lions, 1992.01.27)
Scherwey Tristan (SC Bern Future, 1991.05.07)
Schmutz Reto (PIKES EHC Oberthurgau, 1992.11.09)
Walser Samuel (Kloten Flyers, 1992.06.05)

(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

WHL Round-Up

Press Release

CHIEFS AND AMERICANS ADVANCE – The Spokane Chiefs and the Tri-City Americans are bound for the second round of the 2009 WHL Playoffs after both teams claimed victories on Saturday night to win their respective Conference quarter-final series’.

AMERICANS 6, SILVERTIPS 1

Jordan Messier scored two goals to lead the Tri-City Americans to a 6-1 victory over the visiting Everett Silvertips in Game 5 of their Kal Tire WHL Western Conference quarter-final series on Saturday, March 28th.

With the victory, the Americans win the best-of-seven series four games to one and move on to the Kal Tire WHL Western Conference semi-final to face the Kelowna Rockets.

Taylor Procyshen – with a goal and an assist – Mitch McColm, Jason Reese and Brooks Macek also scored for the Americans, who move on to the second round of the playoffs for the second straight season, while Mitch Fadden chipped in three assists. Chet Pickard made 26 saves to record the victory.

Kellan Tochkin scored the only goal for the Silvertips, who allowed the game’s first six goals before getting on the board early in the third period. Thomas Heemskerk made 33 saves in a losing cause. With the loss, the ‘Tips are eliminated from the playoffs.

Tri-Cities wins best-of-seven series 4-1.

Game Summary


CHIEFS 5, THUNDERBIRDS 3

Drayson Bowman scored twice and set up another to lead the Spokane Chiefs to a 5-3 win over the visiting Seattle Thunderbirds in Game 5 of their Kal Tire WHL Western Conference quarter-final series on Saturday.

With the victory, the Chiefs win the best-of –seven series four games to one and advance to the Kal Tire WHL Western Conference semi-final to face the Vancouver Giants.

Mitch Wahl notched a goal and two assists and Brady Calla and Justin McCrae each added singles for the Chiefs, who win their fifth consecutive WHL Playoff series, dating back to last season. Dustin Tokarski made 31 saves to earn the win.

Thomas Hickey – with a goal and an assist – Colin Jacobs and Prab Rai scored for the Thunderbirds, who went 1-for-7 on the power play in the contest, while Greg Scott chipped in three assists. Calvin Pickard made 30 saves in a losing cause. With the defeat, the T-Birds are eliminated from the playoffs.

Spokane wins best-of-seven series 4-1.

Game Summary


HUSKY WHL EASTERN CONFERENCE

Zach Boychuk scored the winner and chipped in an assist as the visiting Lethbridge Hurricanes topped the Saskatoon Blades 3-1 in Game five of their Husky WHL Eastern Conference quarter-final series on Saturday.

Colton Sceviour and Kyle Beach also scored for the Hurricanes, who failed to convert on seven power plays but scored once while shorthanded. Juha Metsola turned in a 31-save effort to record the victory.

Derek Hulak scored the only goal for the Blades, who drop their second straight game of the series to fall behind two games to three. Braden Holtby made 28 saves in a losing cause.

The Hurricanes host Game 6 of the best-of-seven series on Monday, March 30th, in Lethbridge, AB.

Hurricanes lead best-of-seven series 3-2.

Game Summary

(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Robert-Guertin Centre renovations

Press Release

GATINEAU, Friday, March 27, 2009 – The President of the Gatineau Olympiques, Alain Sear, today confirmed that the City of Gatineau has approved a 28 million dollar project to renovate the Robert-Guertin Centre.

The entire project will be financed by the Gatineau Olympiques organization.

The undertaking calls for the addition of more than two thousand seats, pushing the seating capacity from 3 196 to 5 800. Approximately forty corporate boxes as well as a theatre will be built.

The Counsil voted 11-6 in favor of the project.


(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Saturday, March 28, 2009

Avs sign two players

P{ress Release

The Colorado Avalanche Hockey Club announced today that it has signed University of Minnesota forward Ryan Stoa to an entry-level contract.

Colorado’s first selection (second round, 34th overall) in the 2005 Entry Draft, Stoa was named to the 2008-09 All-WCHA First Team after leading the Gophers with 46 points (24g/22a) in 36 games during his junior season. Stoa, Minnesota’s team captain, finished as the WCHA scoring champion with 36 points (19g/17a) in 27 league games. The 21-year-old native of Bloomington, Minn., currently ranks sixth in the nation in points-per-game (1.28) and third in goals-per-game (0.67).

“Ryan brings an element of size, skill and leadership to our organization,” said Avalanche Vice President of Hockey Operations Craig Billington. “He just completed a solid season at the University of Minnesota and we are excited for him to begin his pro career.”

The 6-foot-3, 200-pound forward finished his collegiate career with 97 points (47g/50a) in 120 games.

The Avalanche also announced that it has signed free agent forward Cedric McNicoll to an entry-level contract. McNicoll, 20, led the Shawinigan Cataractes (QMJHL) with 104 points (38g/66a) in 65 regular season games.


(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Quebec sets attendance record

Press Release
BOUCHERVILLE, Tuesday, March 24, 2009 – The Quebec Major Junior Hockey League today revealed the final attendance report of the 2008-09 regular season and the statistics show that the QMJHL has drawn more than two million fans for the fourth consecutive season.

The Quebec Remparts established a new Canadian Hockey League (CHL) record by welcoming a total of 398,538 fans. The Shawinigan Cataractes (95,999) and the Drummondville Voltigeurs (90,748) also broke their attendance marks.

Overall attendance was down 1.2% to 3,523 spectators per game compared to 3,583 last season. Five teams managed to play in front of above 90% capacity crowds: Chicoutimi (100.83%), Rouyn-Noranda (96.38%), Rimouski (95.92%), Victoriaville (92.88%), Drummondville (92.87%).


(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Friday, March 27, 2009

USA U-18 Roster

Name 2008-09 Team College Commit (verbal)
Jack Campbell U.S. National Under-17 Team University of Michigan (CCHA)
Adam Murray U.S. National Under-18 Team University of Denver (WCHA)

DEFENSEMEN (8)
Adam Clendening U.S. National Under-17 Team
Cam Fowler U.S. National Under-18 Team
Nick Mattson U.S. National Under-18 Team University of North Dakota (WCHA)
Jon Merrill U.S. National Under-17 Team University of Michigan (CCHA)
John Ramage U.S. National Under-18 Team University of Wisconsin (WCHA)
Brendan Rempel U.S. National Under-18 Team Harvard University (ECAC)
Philip Samuelsson Chicago Steel (USHL) Boston College (HEA)
William Wrenn U.S. National Under-18 Team University of Denver (WCHA)

FORWARDS (12)
Ryan Bourque^ U.S. National Under-18 Team
Chris Brown U.S. National Under-18 Team University of Michigan (CCHA)
Jerry D’Amigo U.S. National Under-18 Team Rensselaer (ECAC)
John Henrion U.S. National Under-18 Team University of New Hampshire (HEA) Kevin Lynch U.S. National Under-18 Team University of Michigan (CCHA)
Jeremy Morin^ U.S. National Under-18 Team
Matthew Nieto U.S. National Under-17 Team
Kenny Ryan U.S. National Under-18 Team Boston College (HEA)
Drew Shore U.S. National Under-18 Team University of Denver (WCHA)
A.J. Treais U.S. National Under-18 Team University of Michigan (CCHA)
David Valek U.S. National Under-18 Team Harvard University (ECACH)
Jason Zucker U.S. National Under-17 Team University of Denver (WCHA)

(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

MJAHL Awards

Press Release

The Maritime Junior A Hockey League announced its annual regular season award winners late Tuesday. Voting from all 11 MJAHL teams resulted in selections for Most Valuable Player, Rookie of the Year, Best Defenseman, Best Goaltending Duo, Top Goaltender and Most Sportsmanlike. As well, votes were cast for First Team All-Stars.

This season's Most Valuable Player award goes to scoring champion Jordan Scott of the Yarmouth Mariners. Scott led the league with 89 points in 53 games this season (35 goals and 54 assists). In 2007/2008, Scott finished 5th in scoring with 70 points as he helped lead the Mariners to a Kent Cup Championship.

Rookie of the Year for 08/09 goes to Wendell Vye of the Dieppe Gagnon Commandos. Vye, an 18 year-old from Moncton, saw lots of time in the crease for a young goaltender. Vye backstopped the Commandos in 40 games (2314 minutes) during the season earning 19 wins and finishing the season with a 2.72 GAA and a .908 saves %.

Best Defenseman goes to Chris Owens of the Miramichi Timberwolves. In addition to his every day outstanding defensive play, the 19 year-old from St. John's played in all 54 games this season and tallied 77 points in 54 games, best amongst his teammates, best amongst all defensemen and 4th amongst all players (tied with Brad Jackson of Woodstock).
The Top Goaltender award goes to Alex Quessy of the Weeks Crushers. Quessy was a work horse for the Crushers this season, turning 2392 minutes for 42 games. Quessy earned a 3.29 GAA and a .907 saves % while facing 1415 shots, the most amongst all goalies.

The Goaltending Duo with the Best GAA again goes to Truro. Richard Gagnon and Kirk Rafuse turned in a combined 2.21 GAA during the regular season.

The Most Sportsmanlike award goes this season to Phil Breau of the Dieppe Commandos. In 47 games, the young defensman from Dieppe turned in a very low 10 penalty minutes.

The RBC Financial Group Junior A Scholarship was awarded previously to Ben Cameron of the Weeks Crushers.

Here is a complete summary of this season’s winners along with the selections for First Team All-Star.


First Team All Stars

Goal
Alex Quessy
Weeks Crushers

Defense
Chris Owens
Miramichi Timberwolves

Defense
Jeff McNeil
Truro Bearcats

Left Wing
Dylan Bellmore
Miramichi Timberwolves

Center
Jordan Scott
Yarmouth Mariners

Right Wing
Brad Jackson
Woodstock Slammers

Rookie of the Year
Wendell Vye
Dieppe Gagnon Commandos

Most Sportsmanlike Player
Phil Breau
Dieppe Gagnon Commandos

Best Defenseman
Chris Owens
Miramichi Timberwolves

Most Valuable Player
Jordan Scott
Yarmouth Mariners

Top Goaltender
Alex Quessy
Weeks Crushers

Goaltending duo with best GAA
Richard Gagnon
Kirk Rafuse
Truro Bearcats

Scoring Champion
Jordan Scott
Yarmouth Mariners

RBC Financial Group Junior A Scholarship
Ben Cameron
Weeks Crushers

(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Venue Change

Press Release

The United States Hockey League has announced that the games scheduled for this weekend between the Fargo Force and the Tri-City Storm, originally slated to be played at Fargo's Urban Plains Center, have been moved to new venues due to floods in the Fargo area. The Red River, which runs along the border between North Dakota and Minnesota, has reached near record flood levels, forcing the teams to move to substitute arenas in North Dakota where the river has not yet crested.

Friday's game will be played at the Centennial Center in Grafton, N.D. and will get underway at 7:05 p.m. Saturday's game will be held at Purpur Arena in Grand Forks, N.D., with the opening face-off scheduled for 7:45 p.m. Please go to www.fargoforce.com for more information and directions to both venues from Interstate 29.

"With all that is going on out there, these are just games and out there is real, it would be very distasteful for us to move forward playing these games in town. This was not a hard decision to make, it is the right thing to do," said Fargo Force Director of Media Andy Leapaldt.

Admission for both games this weekend will be $10 for adults, $5 for children (18 and under). The Force will be donating $1 from every ticket sold to the local Red Cross to aid in the fight against the flood. In addition, all concession revenues will be donated to the local venues.

With the change in venue, neither game will be available on B2 Networks nor will the statistics be available live on Pointstreak, but rather will be entered manually after the games are completed.

Any individual or group who have purchased single game tickets for either Friday or Saturday night will gain admittance with their existing tickets. Ticket holders opting not to make the trip to either Grafton or Grand Forks they can either redeem their tickets next weekend at the Urban Plains Center when the Force finish out the season against Omaha and Lincoln or can use this weekend's tickets any home playoff game by visiting the Fargo Force box office.

"Our hearts go out to those in the Red River Valley affected by this flooding," said USHL Commissioner Skip Prince. "Together with the ownership, management, staff and players of the Fargo Force, we at the USHL want to thank the cities of Grafton and Grand Forks for opening their doors and being partners during this turbulent time. Without the support and flexibility they have shown, this could not be possible."

The USHL is celebrating its 30th season of junior hockey in 2008-09. With over 160 players already committed to NCAA Division I schools and 16 NHL Draft picks playing in the league, the USHL is the nation's foremost producer of junior hockey talent. For more information, visit us on the web at www.ushl.com.

(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Thursday, March 26, 2009

WHL Awards Finalists

Press Release

The Western Hockey League will hand out the hardware to honor the 2008-09 season’s most outstanding performances at the annual WHL Awards Luncheon on Wednesday, April 29th.

This year, the WHL Awards Luncheon, as well as the WHL Bantam Draft, will be held in Edmonton, AB.

Conference finalists were announced for the following 2008-09 WHL awards: Rookie of the Year, Most Sportsmanlike Player of the Year, Defenseman of the Year, Goaltender of the Year, Scholastic Player of the Year, Coach of the Year, and Executive of the Year.Conference finalists for the WHL Player of the Year, Humanitarian of the Year, and Scholastic Player of the Year will be announced at a later date.

Here's a look at the Conference finalists for the WHL awards announced last week:

WHL Rookie of the Year - Jim Piggott Memorial Trophy

Eastern Conference: Jordan Weal – Regina Pats

Weal was a bright light on the 2008-09 edition of the Pats. The 16-year-old from North Vancouver, B.C., notched 16 goals and 54 assists for 70 points in 65 games during the 2008-09 season to finish second on the team in scoring. Weal led all 16-year-old rookies in scoring and assists while finishing second among all WHL first-year players in points. His 54 assists tied him for the lead among all WHL rookies in that category. A terrific passer with excellent skating ability and great vision, Weal was the Pats’ fourth-round pick, 79th overall, at the 2007 WHL Bantam Draft.

Western Conference: Brett Connolly – Prince George Cougars

Connolly enjoyed a terrific campaign in his first season in the WHL with the Prince George Cougars in 2008-09. The 16-year-old Prince George, B.C., product led his hometown Cougars with 30 goals and 60 points in 65 games this season, helping the Cougars earn a playoff berth. Connolly was one of just two rookies to lead his team in scoring this season while also becoming the first 16-year-old rookie to score 30 goals in a season since current NHL star Patrick Marleau did it with the Seattle Thunderbirds in 1995-96. A sniper with tremendous accuracy and a quick release, Connolly was drafted by the Cougars in the first round, 10th overall, at the 2007 WHL Bantam Draft.

WHL Goaltender of the Year - Del Wilson Trophy

Eastern Conference: Braden Holtby – Saskatoon Blades

Holtby enjoyed his finest campaign in the WHL with the Blades in 2008-09, helping the team not only end a two-year playoff drought but doing so by winning their first East Division title since 1993-94. The 19-year-old from Marshall, SK, appeared in a WHL-high 61 games for the Blades, posting a 40-16-2-2 record with six shutouts to go with a 2.62 goals-against average and a .910 save percentage. Holtby was one of only two WHL goalies to top the 40-win mark, and also enjoyed streaks of 10 and nine consecutive wins throughout the season. Holtby is a Washington Capitals prospect.

Western Conference: Chet Pickard, Tri-City Americans

Pickard was again one of the WHL’s top netminders in 2008-09, and finds himself the Western Conference’s nominee for WHL Goaltender of the Year for a second straight season after winning the award last year. The 19-year-old from Winnipeg, MB, made 50 appearances for the Americans this season, posting a 35-12-0-3 record with six shutouts while sporting a 2.28 goals-against average and a .921 save percentage, helping the Ams earn their second straight U.S. Division title. He was also named the ADT CHL Goaltender of the Week on December 9th. Pickard is a Nashville Predators prospect.

WHL Defenseman of the Year - Bill Hunter Memorial Trophy

Eastern Conference: Paul Postma – Calgary Hitmen

Postma enjoyed an outstanding 2008-09 regular season for the Hitmen, helping the team to one of the best regular-season campaigns in WHL history. The 19-year-old from Red Deer, AB, scored a franchise-record 23 goals while tying a franchise record with 84 points in 70 games this season to lead all WHL defensemen in scoring by a 17-point margin. In addition, Postma posted a WHL-best +67 rating for the highest +/- rating since the 1998-99 season. Postma, an Atlanta Thrashers prospect, is the second Hitmen defenseman in the last two seasons to earn the Eastern Conference nomination for the Bill Hunter Memorial Trophy. Karl Alzner won the award last season.

Western Conference: Jonathon Blum – Vancouver Giants

Blum has put up another excellent regular-season campaign for the Giants, helping the team to their fourth consecutive B.C. Division crown and to the second-best defensive record in the WHL. The 20-year-old from Rancho Santa Margarita, CA, notched 16 goals and a career-high 50 assists for 66 points to go with a +53 rating in only 51 games for the Giants this season. Blum was named the Husky WHL Player of the Month for September/October after starting the season with 14 points and a remarkable +20 rating in his first 10 games of the season. Blum is a Nashville Predators prospect.

WHL Most Sportsmanlike Player of the Year - Brad Hornung Trophy

Eastern Conference: Tyler Ennis, Medicine Hat Tigers

The reigning Brad Hornung Trophy recipient, Ennis finds himself as the Eastern Conference’s finalist for the award for a second straight season after another solid campaign for the Tigers. The 19-year-old Edmonton, AB, native was an offensive force for the Tigers, netting 43 goals and 85 points in 61 games to place 10th in the WHL scoring race. The Buffalo Sabres’ prospect also drew only 21 minutes in penalties this season, despite playing top-line minutes. A well-respected player throughout the WHL, Ennis has accumulated 115 career goals to go with just 103 penalty minutes in 244 career regular-season game.

Western Conference: Colin Long, Kelowna Rockets

Like Ennis, Long finds himself as a finalist for the Brad Hornung Trophy for a second consecutive season after enjoying another productive season for the Kelowna Rockets. The 19-year-old from Santa Ana, CA, scored a career-high 33 goals while adding 58 assists for 91 points in 68 contests, helping the Rockets to their best regular-season campaign since 2004-05. Long also sat for only 28 minutes in the penalty box despite playing big minutes in all situations for the Rockets. One of the highest-scoring players in the WHL over the last two season, Long has racked up 64 goals and 191 points over his last 140 games while drawing just 69 penalty minutes. Long is a Phoenix Coyotes prospect.

WHL Scholastic Player of the Year – Daryl K. (Doc) Seaman Trophy

Eastern Conference: Stefan Elliott – Saskatoon Blades

Elliott has been a star on the ice and in the classroom during the 2008-09 WHL season. The 18-year-old from North Vancouver, B.C., earned a 93.3% average during his first semester of studies in 2008-09 while taking a heavy course load of Grade 12 classes at Marion Graham Collegiate in Saskatoon, SK. Having earned a 90% average in Chemistry 30, a 96% average in Francais immersion, and a 94% average in English B 30 in the first semester of the school year, Elliott is now tackling English A 30 and Phys Ed 30 to complete his high school curriculum. On the Ice, Elliott notched 16 goals and 55 points in 70 games to help the Blades win the East Division title. Eligible for the 2009 NHL Entry Draft, Elliott has the potential to be a first-round selection.

Western Conference: Tyler Maxwell – Everett Silvertips

Maxwell enjoyed a terrific rookie season on the ice for the Everett Silvertips in 2008-09, and excelled in the classroom as well. The 17-year-old from Manhattan Beach, CA, earned a 3.85 GPA in his first full year at Everett High School, posting A’s in Creative Writing and English, and A-‘s in Drama and American Government. Impressively, Maxwell was able to accomplish this in his first year away from home, in a new city and a new school, and while continuing to play high-caliber hockey with the Silvertips. On the ice, Maxwell scored 22 goals and 46 points in 57 games for the ‘Tips, helping them clinch a playoff berth for the sixth consecutive season. Maxwell’s 22 goals placed him fourth among all WHL rookies. Maxwell is eligible for the 2009 NHL Entry Draft.

WHL Coach of the Year - Dunc McCallum Memorial Trophy

Eastern Conference: Lorne Molleken – Saskatoon Blades

Under head coach Lorne Molleken, the Saskatoon Blades were not only able to end a two-year playoff drought, but do so as East Division champions for the first time since 1993-94. Molleken, also the Blades’ general manager, led the team to an outstanding 49-18-3-2 record for 103 points during the 2008-09 season, marking a 20-win, 36-point improvement from the previous season. Under Molleken’s guidance, the Blades also posted a remarkable 28-6-1-1 record on the road this season, tying a WHL record for most road victories in a single season. Molleken also became the 11th coach in WHL history to reach the 400-win mark for his career.

Western Conference: Don Hay – Vancouver Giants

Under Hay’s watch, the Giants posted their best regular-season campaign in franchise history while winning the B.C. Division title for a fourth consecutive year. Hay’s Giants skated to a 57-10-2-3 record for 119 points during the regular season while owning the League’s second-best offense and defense. Under Hay, the Giants posted franchise records for home wins (30), road wins (27), goals for (319), and goal differential (+168). The Hay-led Giants also topped the 100-point plateau for the fourth straight year, tying a WHL record. Over the last four seasons, Hay has led the Giants to a 198-61-7-22 record. Hay currently ranks seventh on the WHL’s list for all-time regular-season coaching victories with 445.

WHL Executive of the Year - Lloyd Saunders Memorial Trophy

Eastern Conference: Kelly Kisio – Calgary Hitmen

Kelly Kisio finds himself as the Eastern Conference nominee for the Lloyd Saunders Memorial Trophy for a second straight season after the Hitmen posted the second-best regular-season record in WHL history in 2008-09. In his first season with the sole title of general manager – he was the team’s head coach last season – Kisio’s Hitmen posted a 59-9-3-1 record for 122 points for the second highest win and point total in WHL history. Despite losing many key players from last season, Kisio managed to keep the Hitmen more than competitive with several astute moves and through the development of prospects selected through the WHL Bantam Draft. 12 players on the Hitmen’s Scotty Munro Trophy-winning roster were Calgary Bantam Draft picks, while another five were listed by the team.

Western Conference: Scott Bonner – Vancouver Giants

Under Scott Bonner’s management, the Giants enjoyed yet another outstanding regular season, posting a 57-10-2-3 record for 119 points and earning a fourth consecutive B.C. Division title. Bonner’s savvy as a general manager and knack for acquiring talent allowed him to accumulate one of the deepest rosters – defensively and offensively – of any WHL team. The Giants boast 13 players, including All-Stars Evander Kane and Jon Blum, on their squad who were selected by the team through the WHL Bantam Draft. In addition, Bonner has managed to acquire high-end players such as defensemen Nick Ross to improve his team this season. Bonner’s ability to assemble elite teams year after year has helped the Giants continually be among the WHL’s leaders in attendance.

WHL Regular Season Champion - Scotty Munro Trophy

WINNER: Calgary Hitmen

The Calgary Hitmen put together one of the best regular-season campaigns in WHL history. The 2008-09 season saw the Hitmen post a 59-9-3-1 record for 122 points to earn their second consecutive Central Division and Eastern Conference regular-season titles. Their 59 wins puts the Hitmen second in the WHL’s record books, as does their 122 points. In addition, the Hitmen posted a 32-3-1-0 record on home ice and a 27-6-2-1 record on the road. It’s the third time in their 14-year history that the Hitmen have won the Scotty Munro Trophy for owning the WHL’s best regular-season record.

WHL Top Scorer - Bob Clarke Trophy

WINNER: Casey Pierro-Zabotel – Vancouver Giants

Pierro-Zabotel notched 36 goals and 79 assists for 115 points in 72 games for the Vancouver Giants during the 2008-09 WHL regular season to earn the Bob Clarke Trophy as the WHL’s top scorer. The 20-year-old from Kamloops, B.C., becomes the first Vancouver Giant to win the WHL’s Top Scorer award, and fourth straight B.C.-born player to top the WHL’s scoring ladder. Pierro-Zabotel’s 79 assists were 11 more than his nearest competitor this year, and the most put up by a WHL player since the 1996-97 season. Having joined the Giants from the BCHL in November 2007, Pierro-Zabotel has amassed 55 goals and 163 points in 121 games, helping the Giants to back-to-back B.C. Division titles in that time. Pierro-Zabotel is a Pittsburgh Penguins prospect.

(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Playoff Players of the Week

Press Release

Toronto, ON – The Canadian Hockey League today announced that forward Dany Massé of the Drummondville Voltigeurs is the Boston Pizza CHL Player of the Week for the week ending March 22. In two games Massé produced an incredible 11 points including six goals and five assists with a plus-minus rating of plus-4.

On Friday night Massé and the Voltigeurs opened their first round playoff series with the Lewiston MAINEiacs with a big 12-3 win at home. Massé was outstanding offensively with a five-point game that included a hat-trick and two assists as second star of the game. The next night, Saturday, the Voltigeurs continued their relentless offensive attack with a 10-1 win powered by a six-point game by Massé. He was named first star of the game with another hat-trick including scoring the game-winner, and adding three assists.

Massé, a 20-year-old from La Pocatière, Quebec, is in his fifth QMJHL season and first with the Voltigeurs having played two seasons with both the Val d’Or Foreurs and the Acadie-Bathurst Titan. Massé had the best offensive season of his career with 110 points including 44 goals and 66 assists in 68 games, finishing second in league scoring behind teammate Yannick Riendeau.

Taylor Hall of the OHL’s Windsor Spitfires was also considered for the award for scoring five goals and four assists in three playoff wins. His best game was Sunday when he was named first star with two goals and one assist in a 6-1 win over the Owen Sound Attack. Matt Lowry of the Brandon Wheat Kings was also considered for scoring one goal and four assists for five points in two games. He was named first star of the game on Saturday when he tallied one goal and one assist in the 4-1 win over the Kootenay Ice.

2008-09 Boston Pizza CHL Player of the Week
Mar. 24 – Dany Massé, Drummondville Voltigeurs
Mar. 17 – Drayson Bowman, Spokane Chiefs
Mar. 10 – John Tavares, London Knights
Mar. 3 – Benjamin Casavant, P.E.I. Rocket
Feb. 24 – Matt Caria, Plymouth Whalers
Feb. 17 – Jeff Skinner, Kitchener Rangers
Feb. 10 – Yannick Riendeau, Drummondville Voltigeurs
Feb. 3 – Drayson Bowman, Spokane Chiefs
Jan. 27 – Paul Byron, Gatineau Olympiques
Jan. 20 – Brayden Schenn, Brandon Wheat Kings
Jan. 13 – Steven Anthony, Saint John Sea Dogs
Jan. 6 – Joel Broda, Moose Jaw Warriors
Dec. 16 – Robert Slaney, Cape Breton Screaming Eagles
Dec. 9 – John Tavares, Oshawa Generals
Dec. 2 – Andrej Nestrasil, Victoriaville Tigres
Nov. 25 – Scott Glennie, Brandon Wheat Kings
Nov. 18 – Mathew Sisca, Niagara IceDogs
Nov. 11 – Yannick Riendeau, Drummondville Voltigeurs
Nov. 4 – Dana Tyrell, Prince George Cougars
Oct. 28 – Jamie Benn, Kelowna Rockets
Oct. 21 – Matthew Pistilli, Shawinigan Cataractes
Oct. 14 – Justin DiBenedetto, Sarnia Sting
Oct. 7 – Stefan Della Rovere, Barrie Colts
Sept. 30 – Joel Broda, Moose Jaw Warriors
Sept. 23 – Michael Stinziani, Cape Breton Screaming Eagles

Press Release

Toronto, ON – The Canadian Hockey League today announced that Martin Jones of the Calgary Hitmen is the ADT CHL Goaltender of the Week for the week ending March 22. Jones, now a three-time winner of this award, posted a 2-0-0-0 record including a shutout win with a goals-against-average of .500 with a save percentage of .978 in two games.

Jones and the Hitmen opened their Husky WHL Eastern Conference Quarter Final playoff series against the Edmonton Oil Kings on Thursday night at home. Jones was perfect kicking aside all 21 shots fired his way to earn the shutout and second star of the game honours in the 5-0 game one win. On Sunday night in game two, Jones made 24 saves in the 2-1 win for the Hitmen.

Jones, a 19-year-old from North Vancouver, British Columbia, is in his third WHL season with the Hitmen. He led the WHL in regular season wins with 45 and tied for first with seven shutouts. His 2.08 goals-against-average was third best in the league and his .915 save percentage was tied for third best overall.

Nominated again from the QMJHL is last week’s winner Nicola Riopel of the Moncton Wildcats. In two opening round playoff games he posted two wins including a 5-0 shutout victory over the P.E.I Rocket on Saturday as second star of the game with 35 saves. Dan Spence of the OHL’s Sarnia Sting was also considered with a 1.44 goals-against-average and a .970 save percentage in two games highlighted by his 2-0 shutout win over the Plymouth Whalers Saturday night as first star with 52 saves.

Celebrating its 134th anniversary, ADT Security Services, Inc., a unit of Tyco Fire & Security, is the largest provider of electronic security services to more than six million commercial, federal and residential customers throughout North America. ADT's total security solutions include intrusion, fire protection, closed circuit television, access control, critical condition monitoring, electronic article surveillance, radio frequency identification (RFID) and integrated systems. ADT's web site addresses are www.adt.com or www.adt.ca.

2008-09 ADT CHL Goaltender of the Week
Mar. 24 – Martin Jones, Calgary Hitmen
Mar. 17 – Nicola Riopel, Moncton Wildcats
Mar. 10 – Jaroslav Janus, Erie Otters
Mar. 3 – Thomas McCollum, Brampton Battalion
Feb. 24 – Adam Brown, Kelowna Rockets
Feb. 17 – Maxim Gougeon, Rimouski Oceanic
Feb. 10 – Nicola Riopel, Moncton Wildcats
Feb. 3 – Raffaele D’Orso, Val d’Or Foreurs
Jan. 27 – Thomas McCollum, Brampton Battalion
Jan. 20 – Matt Hackett, Plymouth Whalers
Jan. 13 – Olivier Roy, Cape Breton Screaming Eagles
Jan. 6 – Martin Jones, Calgary Hitmen
Dec. 16 – Michael Hutchinson, Barrie Colts
Dec. 9 – Chet Pickard, Tri-City Americans
Dec. 2 – Torrie Jung, Edmonton Oil Kings
Nov. 25 – Antoine Lafleur, Rouyn-Noranda Huskies
Nov. 18 – Martin Jones, Calgary Hitmen
Nov. 11 – Tyson Sexsmith, Vancouver Giants
Nov. 4 – Mike Murphy, Belleville Bulls
Oct. 28 – Nicola Riopel, Moncton Wildcats
Oct. 21 – Brandon Foote, Brampton Battalion
Oct. 14 – Calvin Pickard, Seattle Thunderbirds
Oct. 7 – Olivier Roy, Cape Breton Screaming Eagles
Sept. 30 – Andrew Engelage, Windsor Spitfires
Sept. 23 – Jamie Tucker, Vancouver Giants

(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Wednesday, March 25, 2009

OJHL Nominee

Press Release

The Ontario Junior Hockey League is proud to announce that Jeremy Franklin of the Wellington Dukes is the OJHL nominee for the RBC CJHL Player of the Year.

The final decision for the RBC CJHL Player of the Year now rests with Hockey Canada with Jeremy competing with other players from all CJHL leagues across the country for this prestigious award.

Jeremy's confidence, maturity, work ethic and leadership have lead to his many accomplishments with Wellington. He has been a tremendous ambassador for the OJHL on a National stage representing Team East at the 2008 and 2009 World Junior ‘A' Challenge, winning both a bronze and silver medal respectively.

Not only is Jeremy a first class hockey player, off the ice he is a determined student which has resulted in him securing a scholarship to Mercyhurst College for the fall of 2009. Along with his many off ice activities, Jeremy volunteers his time at local schools and teaches at local hockey schools to give back to the community.

The OJHL wishes to congratulate Jeremy on his nomination and wishes him the best of luck in the National selection process.

(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

USHL Players of the Week

Press Release

Craig Smith Waterloo Black Hawks
Madison, Wisconsin
College: Wisconsin
NHL: Undrafted

Smith led the way as the surging Black Hawks extended their winning streak to seven games with three victories. On Tuesday, he scored a goal and had an assist in a 6-1 win at Sioux Falls. On Friday, he had another assist in a 6-0 win at Sioux City. Then on Saturday, he scored a hat trick in the second period and added an assist in a 7-4 win over Chicago. He had 11 shots on goal and was +6.

Honorable Mention - Danny Kristo (OMA), Andy Taranto (FAR), Kirt Hill (LIN)

Dan Sova Waterloo Black Hawks
Cottage Grove, Minnesota
College: Michigan Tech
NHL: Undrafted

Sova was instrumental in three Black Hawks victories last week, helping them keep their winning streak alive and clinching a berth in the Clark Cup Playoffs. He had a pair of assists in a 6-1 win at Sioux Falls on Tuesday. He picked up three more assists in a 6-0 win at Sioux City on Friday. He was held off the score sheet in Saturday's 7-4 win over Chicago. Sova finished the week +6.

Honorable Mention - Eamonn McDermott (FAR), Torey Krug (IND)

Parker Milner Waterloo Black Hawks
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
College: Uncommitted
NHL: Undrafted

Milner wins the league's goaltender award for the second straight week after backstopping all three of Waterloo's wins last week. On Tuesday he made 29 saves in a 6-1 win at Sioux Falls. Friday he picked up his third shutout of the season in a 6-0 win at Sioux City. Saturday night he made 32 saves in a 7-4 win over Chicago. For the week, Milner was 3-0-0 with a 1.67 goals against average and a .952 save percentage.

Honorable Mention - Kevin Murdock (LIN), Mike Lee (FAR), Mike Johnson (CR)

(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

OHL Coaches Poll

Press Release

The Ontario Hockey League today announced the results of the 2008-09 Coaches Poll.

The OHL Coaches Poll provides team coaches with the opportunity to recognize players in several skill categories within their own conference. The top three players in each category from the Eastern and Western Conferences are recognized. Coaches vote for each category within their conference and are not permitted to vote for players on their own team. Players receive five points for a first place vote, three points for a second place vote and one point for a third place vote.

Brampton Battalion captain Cody Hodgson leads the way as winner of four Eastern Conference categories including smartest player, for the second straight year, hardest worker, best on face-offs, and best penalty killer. P.K Subban of the Belleville Bulls and Brett Parnham of the Oshawa Generals each won two categories, with Subban claiming the hardest shot and best offensive defenceman, while Parnham takes the best shot and ties the Battalion’s Evgeny Grachev as the most dangerous in the goal area. Cory Tanaka of the Bulls is a two-time winner in the best defensive forward category.

In the Western Conference, Ryan Ellis of the Windsor Spitfires tops the list in three categories including smartest player, hardest shot, and best offensive defenceman. John Carlson of the London Knights tied Ellis for hardest shot and also takes home the best shot category. Matt Kennedy of the Guelph Storm is also the winner of two categories including most underrated and hardest worker. John Tavares of the Knights was unanimously recognized as the most dangerous in the goal area, a category he also won last season.

All 16 categories are listed below by conference with the point totals in brackets.

Eastern Conference:

Most Underrated Player

John Kurtz, Sudbury (21)
Mike Pelech, Mississauga (18)
Luke Pither, Belleville (12)

Most Improved Player
Corey Cowick, Ottawa (33)
Scott Tanski, Brampton (21)
Brandon Mashinter (12)

Smartest Player
Cody Hodgson, Brampton (43)
Eric Tangradi, Belleville (11)
Calvin de Haan, Oshawa tied Logan Couture, Ottawa (10)

Hardest Worker
Cody Hodgson, Brampton (41)
Eric Tangradi, Belleville (17)
Kory Nagy, Oshawa tied Logan Couture, Ottawa (7)

Best Playmaker
Matt Duchene, Brampton (28)
P.K Subban, Belleville (24)
Calvin de Haan, Oshawa (12)

Most Dangerous in the Goal Area
Evgeny Grachev, Brampton tied Brett Parnham, Oshawa (30)
Tony Romano, Peterborough (11)
Eric Tangradi, Belleville (7)

Best Skater
Shawn Lalonde, Belleville (27)
Evgeny Grachev, Brampton (18)
Alex Hutchings, Barrie (12)

Best Shot
Brett Parnham, Oshawa (31)
Evgeny Grachev, Brampton (26)
Nic Palmieri, Belleville (18)

Hardest Shot
P.K Subban, Belleville (33)
Cody Hodgson, Brampton (20)
Brett Parnham, Oshawa (12)

Best Stickhandler
Matt Duchene, Brampton (33)
Tony Romano, Peterborough (23)
William Wallen, Mississauga (9)

Best on Face-offs
Cody Hodgson, Brampton (33)
Thomas Kiriakou, Ottawa (27)
Mike Pelech, Mississauga (18)

Best Body Checker
Stefan Della Rovere, Barrie (41)
Zack Kassian, Peterborough (23)
Brandon Mashinter, Belleville tied Julien Demers, Ottawa (6)

Best Defensive Forward
Cory Tanaka, Belleville (36)
John Kurtz, Sudbury (19)
Logan Couture, Ottawa (11)

Best Penalty Killer
Cody Hodgson, Brampton (30)
Cory Tanaka, Belleville (26)
Thomas Kiriakou, Ottawa (16)

Best Offensive Defenceman
P.K Subban, Belleville (39)
Cameron Gaunce, Mississauga (22)
Calvin de Haan, Oshawa (17)

Best Defensive Defenceman
Cameron Gaunce, Mississauga (31)
P.K Subban, Belleville (19)
Julien Demers, Ottawa (17)


Western Conference:

Most Underrated Player
Matt Kennedy, Guelph (31)
Justin Taylor, London (27)
Chris Chappell, Saginaw (10)

Most Improved Player
Matt Hackett, Plymouth (39)
Chris Chappell, Saginaw (23)
Matt Clarke, London (12)

Smartest Player
Ryan Ellis, Windsor (30)
John Tavares, London (28)
Justin DiBenedetto, Sarnia (10)

Hardest Worker
Matt Kennedy, Guelph (27)
Tyler Murovich, Saginaw tied Matt Martin, Sarnia (17)
Lane MacDermid, Windsor (12)

Best Playmaker
Joey Hishon, Owen Sound (31)
Andrei Loktionov, Windsor (22)
Ryan O’Reilly, Erie tied John Tavares, London (13)

Most Dangerous in Goal Area
John Tavares, London (45)
Justin DiBenedetto, Sarnia (15)
Chris Terry, Plymouth (14)

Best Skater
Taylor Hall, Windsor (39)
Mark Katic, Sarnia (29)
David Kolomatis, Owen Sound tied T.J Brodie, Saginaw (5)

Best Shot
John Carlson, London (27)
Ryan Ellis, Windsor (24)
Justin DiBenedetto, Sarnia (16)

Hardest Shot
John Carlson, London tied Ryan Ellis, Windsor (24)
Jamie Arniel, Sarnia (15)
Adam Comrie, Saginaw (12)

Best Stickhandler
Joey Hishon, Owen Sound (29)
Nazem Kadri, London (26)
Andrei Loktionov, Windsor (17)

Best on Face-Offs
Adam Henrique, Windsor (19)
Ryan O’Reilly, Erie (18)
Marcus Carroll, Owen Sound (14)

Best Body Checker
Zac Rinaldo, London tied Matt Martin, Sarnia (26)
Luke Gazdic, Erie (12)
Kaine Geldart, Plymouth (11)

Best Defensive Forward
Scott Timmins, Windsor (39)
Matt Kennedy, Guelph (15)
Tyler Murovich, Saginaw (13)

Best Penalty Killer
Ryan O’Reilly, Erie (18)
Matthew Lyall, Sault Ste. Marie (17)
Dan Kelly, Kitchener (13)

Best Offensive Defenceman
Ryan Ellis, Windsor (43)
Mark Katic, Sarnia (24)
David Kolomatis, Owen Sound tied T.J Brodie, Saginaw (10)

Best Defensive Defenceman
Brett Bellemore, Plymouth (20)
Dan Kelly, Kitchener (17)
Steve Ferry, Sarnia (15)

(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Tuesday, March 24, 2009

ISS Players of the Week

Sports Management Worldwide (SMWW) / International Scouting Services (ISS) 2009 Draft Prospect Performers of the Week presented by the Pipeline Show & Hockey Now ending Sunday, March 22, 2009.

Each week, International Scouting Services (ISS), Sports Management Worldwide (SMWW), Hockey Now, and The Pipeline Show recognize the Top Draft Eligible player from each of the WHL, OHL, QMJHL, & USHL leagues for the upcoming 2009 NHL Entry Draft based on their play over the course of the week. Players are nominated and the selected by graduates of the SMWW Hockey GM & Scouting with each of the winners receiving a gift acknowledging their selection.


ONTARIO HOCKEY LEAGUE – OHL

Ontario Hockey League – Nazem Kadri, London Knights

Nazem Kadri is the first playoff performer nominated from the Ontario Hockey League after posting 4 goals and 3 assists along with a plus-5 rating in 2 games, both wins for the Knights. Kadri, a London native asserted himself well through the regular season and has continued in the playoffs with strong play at both ends of the ice.

Nazem Kadri
Center
Born Oct 6 1990 -- London, ONT
Height 6.00 -- Weight 177 -- Shoots L


--- Regular Season --- ---- Playoffs ----
Season Team Lge GP G A Pts PIM GP G A Pts PIM

2006-07 Kitchener Rangers OHL 62 7 15 22 30 9 0 2 2 4
2007-08 Kitchener Rangers OHL 68 25 40 65 57 20 9 17 26 26
2008-09 London Knights OHL 56 25 53 78 31


WESTERN HOCKEY LEAGUE – WHL

Western Hockey League – Tyler Maxwell, Everett Silvertips
Tyler Maxwell earns his first award after scoring 4 goals in 2 games for Everett, who currently sit tied in their series with Tri City at a game apiece. Maxwell, a native of Manhattan Beach, CA, the leading goal scorer in the playoffs to this point, has had a solid rookie season in the WHL and has been a consistent contributor throughout the year.

Tyler Maxwell
Center
Born Apr 13 1991 -- Manhattan Beach, CA
Height 5.08 -- Weight 197 -- Shoots L


--- Regular Season --- ---- Playoffs ----
Season Team Lge GP G A Pts PIM GP G A Pts PIM

2007-08 Des Moines Buccaneers USHL 4 0 0 0 2 -- -- -- -- --
2008-09 Everett Silvertips WHL 57 22 24 46 31


QUEBEC MAJOR JUNIOR HOCKEY LEAGUE – QMJHL

Quebec Major Junior Hockey League – Olivier Roy, Cape Breton Screaming Eagles

Olivier Roy is the QMJHL nominee after winning the first two playoff games against the Saint John Sea Dogs, including Game 1 in overtime. Roy is in his second season with Cape Breton and is known for his quickness, agility and resilience after a bad goal or prior game.

Olivier Roy
Goalie
Born Jul 12 1991 -- Amqui, PQ
Height 5.11 -- Weight 163 -- Shoots L


Season Team Lge GP Min GA EN SO GAA W L T Svs Pct

2007-08 Cape Breton QMJHL 47 2428 116 2 4 2.87 27 11 3 1003 0.896
2008-09 Cape Breton QMJHL 54 2935 139 2 3 2.84 35 12 3 1326 0.905



UNITED STATES HOCKEY LEAGUE – USHL

United States Hockey League – Alex Chiasson, Des Moines Buccaneers

Alex Chiasson takes the USHL nomination after scoring 2 goals and adding 2 assists in 3 games for Des Moines this week. Chiasson, a native of Lorraine, PQ is amongst the highest rated USHL Forwards for the upcoming June draft. Chiasson is able to utilize his size and strength to be an extremely valuable player.

Alex Chiasson
Right Wing
Born Oct 1 1990 -- Lorraine, PQ
Height 6.03 -- Weight 175 -- Shoots R
--- Regular Season --- ---- Playoffs ----
Season Team Lge GP G A Pts PIM GP G A Pts PIM

2008-09 Des Moines Buccaneers USHL 51 16 31 47 80


(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Bob Brown wins an award

Press Release

CALGARY, AB – The Western Hockey League announced today that former General Manager of the Kamloops Blazers, Bob Brown, is the recipient of the 2008-09 WHL Governors Award.

The WHL Governors Award is presented annually to individuals who, though their outstanding service as a builder of the League and achievements in the game, have contributed to the growth and development of the WHL.

In 10 years as General Manager from 1986 to 1995, Bob Brown developed the Kamloops Blazers into one of the most successful franchises in Western Hockey League history. In just 10 WHL seasons, Brown led the Blazers to seven WHL Division titles; four WHL Championships and three Memorial Cup Championships (1992, 1994 and 1995). During his tenure with Kamloops Brown was responsible for appointing some of the most successful Head Coaches in WHL history in Tom Renney and Don Hay. Brown also assembled a strong scouting staff that saw the Kamloops Blazers acquire players such as Jarome Iginla, Darryl Sydor, Darcy Tucker and Scott Niedermayer just to name a few.

A two time recipient of the WHL Executive of the Year Award in 1990-91 and 1993-94, Bob Brown built the Kamloops Blazers into a major junior hockey powerhouse in the 1990’s and he is regarded by his peers as one of the most successful General Managers in Canadian Hockey League history. Bob Brown is currently in his seventh season as a scout with the Edmonton Oilers.

“Bob Brown will always be regarded as one of the most successful General Managers in WHL history,” commented WHL Commissioner Ron Robison. “Bob was responsible for building a dynasty in the 1990’s with the Kamloops Blazers and his record of three Memorial Cup Championships in four seasons may never be matched again in the WHL.”

The WHL Governors Award, first awarded by the WHL in 2004-05, is the highest honour bestowed on an individual by the WHL Board of Governors. Previous recipients were: Bill Hunter, Scotty Munro and Jim Piggott (2007-08); Bob Cornell (2006-07); Jack McLeod (2005-06); Pat Ginnell, Ernie McLean, Bill Hicke and Del Wilson (2004-05).


(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Players of the Week

Press Release

Toronto, ON – The Ontario Hockey League today announced that forward Taylor Hall of the Windsor Spitfires is the Boston Pizza OHL Player of the Week for the week ending March 22. Hall scored five goals with four assists for nine points in three games with a plus-minus rating of plus-4.

Hall and the Spitfires opened up their first round playoff series with the Owen Sound Attack Wednesday night in Windsor with a 7-4 win. Hall assisted on two goals by Rob Kwiet including the game-winner and later added an empty net goal to complete his three-point game. On Friday night on the road in game two, Hall scored two goals including one on the power play late in the second period and the game-winner in the first minute of the third period. He also tallied an assist on the insurance marker and was named second star of the game in the 7-5 win over the Attack. The series shifted back to Windsor for game three on Sunday and Hall led the way offensively with two goals and one assist as first star of the 6-1 win over the Attack. The Spitfires lead the first round series 3-0.

Hall, a 17-year-old from Kingston, ON is in his second OHL season with the Spitfires. The sophomore led the Spitfires in scoring and finished ranked sixth in the league with 90 points including 38 goals and 52 assists in 63 games. This is the second time this season Hall is the recipient of this award last winning for the week ending October 26, 2008. Hall is eligible for the 2010 NHL Entry Draft.

Also considered for the award this week is Cody Hodgson of the Brampton Battalion. He tallied eight points including three goals and five assists in two games highlighted by a hat-trick performance with an assist as first star of a 5-4 overtime win on Sunday over the Peterborough Petes. Nazem Kadri scored four goals and three assists for seven points in two games including a five-point and first star game Saturday with a hat-trick and two assists in an 8-1 win over the Erie Otters. In goal, Dan Spence of the Sarnia Sting made 52 saves Saturday to shutout the Plymouth Whalers 2-0 as first star of the game.

2008-09 Boston Pizza OHL Players of the Week

Mar. 23 – Taylor Hall, Windsor Spitfires
Mar. 16 – Logan Couture, Ottawa 67’s
Mar. 9 – John Tavares, London Knights
Mar. 2 – Mark Katic, Sarnia Sting
Feb. 23 – Matt Caria, Plymouth Whalers
Feb. 16 – Jeff Skinner, Kitchener Rangers
Feb. 9 – Tyler Seguin, Plymouth Whalers
Feb. 2 – Cody Hodgson, Brampton Battalion
Jan. 26 – Thomas McCollum, Brampton Battalion
Jan. 19 – Brett Parnham, Oshawa Generals
Jan. 12 – Marcus Carroll, Owen Sound Attack
Jan. 5 – Eric O’Dell, Sudbury Wolves
Dec. 15 – Cameron Gaunce, Mississauga St. Michael’s Majors
Dec. 8 – John Tavares, Oshawa Generals
Dec. 1 – John Tavares, Oshawa Generals
Nov. 24 – Eric Tangradi, Belleville Bulls
Nov. 17 – Mathew Sisca, Niagara IceDogs
Nov. 10 – Cody Hodgson, Brampton Battalion
Nov. 3 – Ryan Ellis, Windsor Spitfires
Oct. 27 – Taylor Hall, Windsor Spitfires
Oct. 20 – Brandon Foote, Brampton Battalion
Oct. 13 – Justin DiBenedetto, Sarnia Sting
Oct. 6 – Stefan Della Rovere, Barrie Colts
Sept. 29 – Luke Pither, Guelph Storm
Sept. 22 – Matt Lyall, Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds

Press Release

CALGARY, AB. - The BOSTON PIZZA WHL Player of the Week is forward Matt Lowry of the Brandon Wheat Kings.
Lowry picked up five points, scoring one goal and four assists to go with a +1 rating in two games over the last week, helping the Brandon Wheat Kings jump out to a 2-0 series lead over the Kootenay Ice in the 2009 Husky WHL Eastern Conference Quarter-Finals best-of-seven series.

On Friday, March 20th, the Wheat Kings (3) hosted the Kootenay Ice (6) at Westman Place in Brandon for game one of 2009 WHL Playoffs opening round series. Lowry picked up three assists as the Wheat Kings downed the Ice 7-2 and was also named the games 2nd Star.

Game two of the opening round series went the following evening, Saturday, March 21st, in Brandon. Lowry scored one goal and added an assist as the Wheat Kings defeated the Ice 4-1 in game two. He was also named the games 1st Star.

The Brandon Wheat Kings currently have a 2-0 series lead over the Kootenay Ice, with games three and four set in Cranbrook, British Columbia at the Recreation Complex on Tuesday, March 24th and Wednesday, March 25th at 7:00 pm (MST).

Lowry, from Neepawa, Manitoba, is currently playing his 20-year-old season with the Brandon Wheat Kings. After three full years in the Western Hockey League, starting with the Medicine Hat Tigers, Lowry has appeared in 209 regular season games, accumulating 160 points (47 goals, 113 assists).

The WHL has also nominated Martin Jones of the Calgary Hitmen for the ADT CHL Goaltender of the Week Award. Jones posted a 2-0-0-0 record this past week with one shut-out, allowing just one goal on 46 shots for a 0.500 goals-against average and .978 save percentage.

Jones, a 19-year-old (playing his 18-year-old season) from North Vancouver, British Columbia, is in his third season with the Calgary Hitmen. Jones was first among all WHL goaltenders at the conclusion of the regular season with 45 wins and third in the WHL with a 2.08 GAA.

(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Monday, March 23, 2009

The Program

The call that went unnoticed


(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Eberle signs with the Oilers

Press Release

Edmonton, AB -- General Manager Steve Tambellini announced today the Edmonton Oilers have signed Jordan Eberle to a three-year NHL entry level contract.

Eberle, the Oilers first choice, 22nd overall, in the 2008 NHL Entry Draft, recently completed his third season of junior hockey with the Regina Pats of the Western Hockey League. The 5’10”, 181 pound centre from Regina, Saskatchewan led the Pats in scoring with 35-39-74 in 61 games.

The 18-year-old forward, who will turn 19 on May 15th, led Regina in goal scoring with 35 and was second in assists while registering 20 penalty minutes. Thirty-six of his 74 points came on the powerplay as he scored 12-24-36 with the Pats enjoying the man advantage. His 12 powerplay goals ranked 15th in the WHL, while he was 11th in powerplay assists.

A member of the WHL East Division First All-Star Team in 2007-08, Eberle scored 105-99-204 with 72 penalty minutes in 197 career regular season games with Regina in three seasons from 2006-07 to 2008-09. He scored a single-season high 42-33-75 in 70 games in 2007-08 to finish 15th in the WHL scoring race.

Eberle became a Canadian hockey hero at the 2009 IIHF World Junior Championship in Ottawa, Ontario, when he scored the tying goal in Canada’s 6-5 OT win over Russia in the tournament semi-final. Eberle, who finished third on the Team Canada scoring list with 6-7-13 in six games, tied the game with five seconds remaining in regulation and after a scoreless overtime, he was one of two Canadians to score in the shootout as Canada earned the semi-final victory and advanced to the gold medal final where they defeated Sweden.

Eberle was second on Team Canada in both goals and assists, while scoring two powerplay goals and was +9 with two penalty minutes.

The Edmonton Oilers 30th Anniversary Season is presented in part by the Rexall Family of Pharmacies, Bell, Molson Canadian, ATB Financial and Ford.

(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

AJHL/BCHL update

Press Release

The top Junior A clubs from British Columbia and Alberta are currently battling for their respective league championships and a spot in the Doyle Cup. With that goal -- and a trip to the RBC Royal Bank Cup -- in sight, the league semi-finals series are about to begin.

***

With only four teams remaining and both division final series beginning Friday, the race to the Alberta Junior Hockey League's Enerflex Cup is starting to get down to the wire.

The South Division match-up is set following a seven-game battle that saw the Brooks Bandits and Camrose Kodiaks go the distance before the Bandits triumphed with a 4-0 win in the series-deciding game.

The Olds Grizzlys, led by Jordan Kwan's league-leading 17 points in 11 playoff games, will be taking on the Bandits in the battle to represent the Soutd Division in the Enerflex Cup Finals.

In the North Division, the Spruce Grove Saints will take on the Grande Prairie Storm for a place in the finals. A series marks an encounter between the division's top two regular season seeds. The Storm finished the season trailing Spruce Grove by 12 points.

AJHL Playoff Point Leaders:

1. Jordan Kwas, Olds Grizzlys, 7/10/17 in 11
2. Brance Orban, Olds Grizzlys, 10/6/16 in 11
3. Zahn Raubenheimer, Grande Prairie Storm, 8/8/16 in 10

Point Leaders from remaining teams:

1. Olds Grizzlys -- Jordan Kwas, 7/10/17 in 11
2. Grande Prairie -- Zahn Raubenheimer, 10/6/16 in 10
3. Sherwood Park Crusaders -- Reese Rolheirser, 5/11/16 in 10
4. Brooks Bandits -- Jarret Granberg, 5/6/11 in 7

***

Meanwhile, the British Columbia Hockey League's Coastal and Interior Conference Finals begin Friday, and the regular season standings have been true to form in determining the league's final four.

On the coast, the RBC Cup host Victoria Grizzlies are set to face off against the Mainland Division champion Powell River Kings. The Grizzlies, who are coming off a hard-fought seven game series win over Cowichan Valley, were the BCHL's regular season points leader while the Kings led the league in goals with 251.

In the interior, the Vernon Vipers and Salmon Arm SilverBacks will renew a regular season rivalry that saw the two teams go down to the wire for the conference crown. The Vipers and SilverBacks are both well-rested after five-game series wins in their conference semi-finals matchups.

BCHL Playoff Point Leaders:

1. Darcy Oakes, Powell River Kings, 5/9/14 in 5
2. Kyle Bodie, Powell River Kings, 7/5/12 in 5
3. Chris Zaires, Cowichan Valley Capitals, 4/8/12 in 10

Point Leaders from remaining teams:

1. Powell River Kings -- Darcy Oakes, 5/9/14 in 5
2. Salmon Arm SilverBacks -- Conor Morrison, 5/6/11 in 5
3. Vernon Vipers -- Sahir Gill, 4/5/9 in 5
4. Victoria Grizzlies -- Jonathan Milhouse, 4/4/8 in 7

***

The winners of the AJHL's Enerflex Cup and the BCHL's Fred Page Cup will move on to face one another in the Doyle Cup and battle for a spot in the RBC Royal Bank Cup, which kicks off in Victoria, B.C. on May 2nd.

(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Marlboros win the OHL Cup

Press Release

Toronto Marlboros captain and player of the game Michael Curtis scored the game-winning goal early in the second period to lead the Marlies to a 5-1 win over the Elgin Middlesex Chiefs in the championship game at the 2009 OHL Cup Showcase Tournament on Sunday evening at the Hershey Centre in Mississauga.

The top-ranked Marlies complete the tournament with an overall record of 6-0-1 and cap off an incredible season that includes a GTHL championship. Marlies forward Lucas Lessio took home the Tim Adams Award as Most Valuable Player of the Tournament with a team-leading 11 points including five goals and six assists in seven games. This is the first OHL Cup title for the Marlies organization since 2005 when they were led by current London Knights star John Tavares and Sam Gagner of the Edmonton Oilers.

After a scoreless first period the Marlies opened the second frame with a flurry of four unanswered goals, the first off the stick of Evan Rodrigues who took a cross-ice feed from Luke Juha and lifted a wrist shot top corner over the glove of Chiefs goalie Taylor Speed 1:56 into the period. At 3:19 of the period, Michael Curtis picked up a rebound from a shot blocked by the Chiefs defence and caught Speed off guard when he buried the rebound for his fourth goal of the tournament. 13 seconds later Zach Mitchell picked up a loose puck in a goal-crease scramble and scored to make it 3-0 for the Marlies. Michael Curtis was credited with the assist for his second point of the game. Brett Ritchie broke up a two-on-one Chiefs opportunity and unleashed a stretch pass up the middle to a wide open Justin Rasmussen who went blocker side with his breakaway shot to extend the lead to 4-0 at 7:51. Jordan Drury put the Chiefs on the board heading into the intermission when he scored off a Corbin Bean two-on-one pass at 12:59 of the period.

Nursing a 4-1 lead in the third, the Marlies focused on defence and stayed out of the penalty box preventing the Chiefs from developing any scoring opportunities. Brett Ritchie iced the game when he made it 5-1 at 9:27 with his fifth goal of the tournament and second point of the game with a nice individual effort where he split the Chiefs defence and scored top corner. Malcolm Subban was the winning goaltender for the Marlies, while Chiefs forward Mitch Berzins was named player of the game in the loss.

Michael Curtis received the OHL Cup Championship Trophy from OHL Commissioner David Branch before being greeted by his teammates in celebration. “The way this team played all year we all deserved to hoist the trophy but it felt great to be up there to get it” said Curtis. “That was definitely my biggest goal ever, this was such a crazy season, and we have been waiting for this moment a long time.”

“These kids have come to play all season long and brought their best this tournament” commented Marlies Head Coach Ken Strong. “We may not have the most talented kids individually but we have a solid all-around team that plays together, we get great goaltending and we were rarely challenged five-on-five” added Strong, who has been behind the bench with a core group of Marlies players for seven seasons beginning in Minor Atom. In addition to this OHL Cup win, they have collected seven city championships and three OHF championship titles including a Bantam AAA All-Ontario win last season where they beat the same Elgin Middlesex Chiefs in the finals.

The Marlies road to the finals included a 5-2 quarter-final victory over the Toronto Jr. Canadiens and a semi-final win Sunday beating the York Simcoe Express 9-1.

The Elgin-Middlesex Chiefs entered the tournament as ALLIANCE Hockey Champions and the third-ranked team in the tournament. They beat the Mississauga Senators 3-2 in double overtime in their quarter-final game on Saturday before beating the Quinte Red Devils 2-1 in semi-final action on Sunday. Boone Jenner led the Chiefs in tournament scoring with 11 points including six goals and five assists in seven games. He was second behind tournament leader Nick Cousins of the Quinte Red Devils who led the way with 13 points including five goals and eight assists in six games.

Click here for the final game summary.

Click here to recap a live blog from the Hershey Centre with CBC Sports Our Game.

(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Sunday, March 22, 2009

OHL Cup Final is set

Press Release

The semi-finals are complete at the 2009 OHL Cup Showcase Tournament and the final two teams are set to compete for the OHL Cup Sunday afternoon at the Hershey Centre in Mississauga.

Championship Final: 5:00 pm

Toronto Marlboros (5-0-1) vs. Elgin-Middlesex Chiefs (6-0-0)

Semi-Final 2: 11:00 am

York Simcoe Express 1 vs. Toronto Marlboros 9

The second semi-final game pitted two teams perched atop the OHL Cup top-10 rankings for most of the season, the top-ranked Toronto Marlies and the number two ranked York Simcoe Express.

The Marlies demonstrated their strength offensively right off the start and carried it throughout the contest counting eight straight for an insurmountable lead. Lucas Lessio set the pace 3:41 into the first period with his fourth goal of the tournament showing tremendous patience in close. “I got a great pass from Santino (Andrew) and their d (defenceman) slid early. I was looking to make a pass but was able to walk right in” said Lessio describing his first of two goals. “We were so pumped up for this game, especially after losing to them (York Simcoe) at the Silver Stick tournament, it was fuel to the fire and we wanted to win every aspect of this game and I think we did” added Lessio.

Marlies goal scorers also included Michael Curtis and Zach Mitchell each with two, Ryan Strome, Andrew Santino, and Eric Chevrier each added one. Andrew Shutt scored the single for the Express.

Despite the lopsided score, the Marlies relied heavily on goaltender Malcolm Subban who provided stability in the crease during a string of five-on-three power plays for the Express down the stretch. “We took lots of penalties but even with the score as it was I approach every penalty kill the same way and tried my best to stay focused” commented Subban.

Toronto Marlboros Player of the Game – Lucas Lessio (2 Goals and 2 Assists)
York Simcoe Express Player of the Game – Andrew Shutt (1 Goal)

Click here for the final game summary.

Semi-Final 1: 9:00 am

Quinte Red Devils 1 vs. Elgin-Middlesex Chiefs 2

The first semi-final game of the 2009 Ontario Hockey League Showcase Tournament for the OHL Cup featured the Quinte Red Devils and Elgin Middlesex Chiefs battling head-to-head for an advance to the finals this afternoon.

Following a scoreless first period, Steven Broek supplied the go-ahead strike, with an assist from Billy Ulrick and Scott Boultbee at 4:07, to put Quinte in the lead. Broek is among the leaders of the tournament with seven points, in just six games. Shortly after his game opening goal, Broek fired a slap shot from the blue line but was stopped by an alert Michael Roefs with a glove save, late in the second.

Chiefs’ Luke Heitkamp beat Tyson Teichmann with his second goal of the tournament, in the beginning of the third to tie up the game at 1-1. Brock Pinnell and Corbin Bean assisted Jordan Drury on the game winner, with his first goal of the tournament at 10:02 when he buried a rebound off a shot from the point. "Quinte is a hard working team, just like us, all we wanted to do was work harder" commented Drury following the game. "The game was so close but I think we outplayed them in the third. Our goal was always to make it here (the finals) after losing last year in the Bantam finals this could be our redemption" added Drury. The Elgin Middlesex Chiefs will advance to the 2009 OHL Showcase Tournament finals today at 5:00pm.

Quinte Red Devils Player of the Game – Tyson Teichmann (Goaltender)
Elgin Middlesex Chiefs Player of the Game – Michael Roefs (Goaltender)

Click here for the final game summary.

(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

My Bracket

First of all I did a story on Matt McNeely on getting an invite to the NTDP camp.

Alright to my bracket.

Northeast Regional

1. Boston University vs. 4. Ohio St.

Winner: BU

This is a tough first round match up for the number one team. I will still take the Terriers.

2. North Dakota vs. 3. New Hampshire

Winner: UND

I will take North Dakota even though its a home game for the Wildcats

1. Boston University vs. 2. North Dakota

Winner: Boston University

East Regional

1. Michigan vs. 4. Air Force

Winner: Michigan

Another tough first round match up for a one seed.

2. Vermont vs. 3. Yale

Winner: Yale

I don't like how Vermont is playing and Yale has the home ice advantage.

1. Michigan vs. 3. Yale

Winner: Michigan

West Regional

1. Denver vs. 4. Miami (OH)

Winner: Denver

Denver Will have their hands full with Miami

2. Minnesota-Duluth vs. 3. Princeton

Winner: Minnesota Duluth

Duluth has been getting the goaltending lately.

1. Denver vs. 2. Minnesota Duluth

Winner: Denver

I think Denver finds away and redeems the WCHA final loss.

Mist West Regional

1. Notre Dame vs. 4. Bemidji State

Winner: Notre Dame

2. Northeastern vs. 3. Cornell

Winner: Cornell

I think Cornell finds away to pull it out. Northeastern wonderful season comes to an end.

1. Notre Dame vs. 3. Cornell

Winner: Cornell

Cornell I think will be this year's Cinderella.

Frozen Four

1. Boston University vs. 1. Michigan

Winner: Boston University

BU has the best line and great goaltending.

1. Denver vs. 3. Cornell

Winner: Denver

Cornell's run comes to an end.

National Championship

1. Boston University vs. 1. Denver

Winner: Boston University by a score of 3-2

BU has been the best team for most of the year and I can't see them losing now. Anything can happen though and that's why they play the game.


That's My Take

(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Semi-Finals are set at the OHL Cup

Press Release

The final eight teams are set at the 2009 OHL Cup Showcase Tournament with the Quarter Finals set for Saturday afternoon and evening at the Hershey Centre in Mississauga.

Quarter Final 1 - 5:00 pm
Quinte Red Devils 4 vs. Toronto Young Nats 2

The first quarter final of the 2009 Ontario Hockey League Showcase Tournament for the OHL Cup saw the Quinte Red Devils jump out to an early 2-0 lead in the first period, over the Toronto Young Nationals. Dylan Burdick opened the scoring for the Red Devils at 4:52 of the opening period and Tyson Fawcett found the back of the net just over a minute later to put Quinte up by two.
Tournament leading scorer, Nick Cousins would add to the Red Devils lead finding the back of the net four minutes and 32 seconds into the second period, putting Quinte up by a score of 3-0. Kory Kennedy started a comeback for the Young Nats, scoring just past the half way point of the frame. Michael Neville would pull the Young Nats to within one, lighting the lamp at 12:22 of the second period. The comeback came up short, however, as Zach Hall would add an insurance marker with five minutes to go in the game to put Quinte up by two goals and put the game out of reach. Quinte will now advance to the first semi final of the tournament Sunday at 9:00 a.m.
Tyson Teichmann earned the win in goal for the Red Devils with a solid performance.
Quinte Red Devils Player of the Game - Nick Cousins (1 goal, 2 assists)
Toronto Young Nationals Player of the Game - Chad Tibideau (1 assist)

Click here for the live score.

Quarter Final 2 - 5:30 pm

Quinte Red Devils 4 vs. Toronto Young Nats 2

The first quarter final of the 2009 Ontario Hockey League Showcase Tournament for the OHL Cup saw the Quinte Red Devils jump out to an early 2-0 lead in the first period, over the Toronto Young Nationals. Dylan Burdick opened the scoring for the Red Devils at 4:52 of the opening period and Tyson Fawcett found the back of the net just over a minute later to put Quinte up by two.
Tournament leading scorer, Nick Cousins would add to the Red Devils lead finding the back of the net four minutes and 32 seconds into the second period, putting Quinte up by a score of 3-0. Kory Kennedy started a comeback for the Young Nats, scoring just past the half way point of the frame. Michael Neville would pull the Young Nats to within one, lighting the lamp at 12:22 of the second period. The comeback came up short, however, as Zach Hall would add an insurance marker with five minutes to go in the game to put Quinte up by two goals and put the game out of reach. Quinte will now advance to the first semi final of the tournament Sunday at 9:00 a.m.
Tyson Teichmann earned the win in goal for the Red Devils with a solid performance.
Quinte Red Devils Player of the Game - Nick Cousins (1 goal, 2 assists)
Toronto Young Nationals Player of the Game - Chad Tibideau (1 assist)

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Quarter Final 3 - 7:00 pm
York Simcoe Express 4 vs. Rochester 2

The third quarter final of the Ontario Hockey League Showcase Tournament saw Rochester take on York Simcoe. It did not take York Simcoe long to get on the scoreboard in this contest as David Iacono scored 54 seconds into the game, to give the Express an early 1-0 lead. The American squad battled back though from the early deficit and tied the game on a power play goal by Matthew Matzaeck at 6:33 of the opening period. Just over a minute later, however, the Express would regain the lead on a shorthanded marker by Adam MacEachern.
Rochester was able to once again tie the game when Tyler Tubinis lit the lamp on the power play at 9:29 into the third period. Once again though the tied score was short lived as York Simcoe took the lead just over a minute after the American squad had tied the game. This time it was Ryan Murphy who gave the express the lead with his fourth goal and ninth point of the tournament, to lead all defenceman. Calvin Higley would at an insurance marker with under two minutes remaining to give the Express the 4-2 victory. Hayden Neuman was strong between the pipes to earn the victory.
York Simcoe Express Player of the Game – Adam MacEachern (1 Goal, 1 Assist)
Rochester 93’s Player of the Game – Domenic Trento

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Quarter Final 4 - 7:30 pm
Toronto Marlboros 5 vs. Toronto Jr. Canadiens 2

The final quarter final game of the 2009 Ontario Hockey League Showcase Tournament was an all Greater Toronto Hockey League affair, pitting the Toronto Marlboros against the Toronto Jr. Canadiens. The Marlies opened up scoring on a goal by Ryan Strome. They would add to the lead on a goal by Stuart Percy, putting them up 2-0 heading into the second frame. The score remained 2-0 into the third period despite quality scoring chances for both sides.

The lead was extended to 3-0, 6:28 into the final frame when Justin Rasmussen deflected the puck into the Jr. Canadiens net off of a beautiful feed from Brett Ritchie. Cameron Brace and Tyler Biggs scored 14 seconds apart late in the game to cut the Marlboros lead to 3-2. That was as close as the Canadiens would get though as Michael Curtis scored an unassisted insurance marker with just over three minutes to play to push the lead to 4-2. Michael Walker would score an empty net goal to seal the victory for the Marlies. Malcom Subban earned the victory between the pipes.
The Marlies advance to the second semi final of the day, tomorrow at 11:00 a.m. when they will take on the York Simcoe Express.
Toronto Marlboros Player of the Game – Zach Mitchell (1 Goal, 1 Assist)
Toronto Jr. Canadiens Player of the Game – Justin Thomas

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(Nathan also is a writer for Maineiacs Post to Post and the Maine Hockey Journal. He can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)