Tuesday, November 30, 2010

Spruce Kings Complete Trade for Jeff Datoff

Press Release

PRINCE GEORGE, BC - The Prince George Spruce Kings of the British Columbia
Hockey League (BCHL) have completed a player transaction with the Nipawin
Hawks Junior Hockey Club of the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League (SJHL)
trading Jeff Datoff in exchange for future considerations.

The Prince George Spruce Kings would like to thank Jeff Datoff for his
contributions to the team over the past two seasons and wish him continued
success with his new team and future hockey career.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Maxim Kazakov suspended

Press Release

BOUCHERVILLE, Tuesday, November 30, 2010 – The Quebec Major Junior Hockey League Disciplinary Prefect, Raymond Bolduc, today announced that Rouyn-Noranda Huskies forward Maxim Kazakov has been suspended for a total of four games for a hit to the head. The incident occurred during last Friday’s game versus the Baie-Comeau Drakkar.

The decision was rendered after reviewing the videotape of the incident, gathering the testimonies of the players and members of both organizations, reading the officials’ reports and consulting the disciplinary committee.

The Disciplinary Prefect will not be available for further comment.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

MAINEiacs Assign Coonishish-Coon To St-Jerome Panthers

Press Release

Maine Hockey Journal

The Lewiston MAINEiacs have announced a roster move, effective immediately, assigning forward Jonah Coonishish-Coon to the St-Jerome Panthers of the Quebec AAA Junior Hockey League.

Coonishish-Coon, 17, was originally signed by the MAINEiacs as a free agent this past summer. The signing was made official at the 2010 QMJHL Entry Draft in Drummondville. Thus far this season, the Chibougamau, QC native has been scoreless in nine games with Lewiston, while picking up 14 penalty minutes. Ten of Coonishish-Coon's penalty minutes have come from fighting majors, as the rookie dropped the gloves with Quebec's Guillaume Rousseau and Val-d'Or's Alexandre Carrier.

"It's important for our players to get a lot of ice time," said MAINEiacs General Manager Roger Shannon. "Because of how much talent we have on our team, it's tough to get that ice time here, so we feel that this move will help further Jonah's development as a player," he said.

Through the years, St-Jerome and Lewiston have created a pipeline, as the Panthers once had the likes of David Perron and Jess Tanguy, before both players made their way to the MAINEiacs. Currently, St-Jerome has one other former MAINEiac on the roster, as Mathieu Gingras is currently perfecting his skills with the Panthers.

Today, the MAINEiacs have made a stop in Amherst, NS, for practice, and will be making a community appearance at Spring Street Academy later today. After that, the team will travel to Sydney, NS for a Tuesday night game against the Cape Breton Screaming Eagles at 6:00.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Gronvaldt to Represent Denmark for a 3rd time

Press Release

Niagara IceDogs defenceman Simon Gronvaldt has been named to Team Denmark for the IIHF World Juniors Division I - Group B tournament taking place in Slovenia next month. Gronvaldt and the Danes will be grouped in with Austria, Croatia, Kazakhstan, Lithuania, and Slovenia with the tournament running from December 12th-18th. The winner of the group will advance to the Top Division for the 2012 World Junior Hockey Championships.

"It's a great feeling; not a lot of guys get the opportunity to play for their country, and to get a third chance is something I'm very happy about," says Gronvaldt.

This will be Gronvaldt's third stint playing with the Danish team during the World Juniors, having played as a 16-year-old as well as last year while he was with the Barrie Colts. In both his previous trips to the World Juniors, the Danes have finished second in their group with a 4-1 record, narrowly missing the opportunity for promotion to the Top Division.

"I'm want to be a leader on the team for sure, it's not my first experience at the World Juniors, so the coach asked me to be a leader on and off the ice and that's what I hope to be," he says.

Although nothing was made official until the last couple of days, Gronvaldt had an idea what to expect when he got the call.

"I kind of knew before because I was talking with the coach and I was at a camp at the beginning of the season," he explains. "But the coach told me two days ago it was official, and I was excited to hear the news.

"It's a great honour to play for your country, and it's a good opportunity for me to play with the boys from back home."

IceDogs assistant coach and defensive coach Mike Van Ryn believes it will be a great opportunity for Gronvaldt to learn and gain experience.

"Any time a player has a chance to play in an international tournament with the world's top tier players, it's a great learning experience," says Van Ryn. "Obviously just the competition and playing against some talented guys will reflect on his play and hopefully he will bring that experience back to Niagara."

Gronvaldt will leave Niagara to join the Danish team on December 5th to begin practicing and preparing for the tournament.

"Obviously we will miss him here, he's been playing great for us as of late," says Van Ryn. "But it will give him a chance to be with his countrymen and play against some elite players, so we're happy for him and wish him the best."

Van Ryn notes that Gronvaldt is a player that has the ability to play in all types of situations, whether it's in the second defensive pairing on the power play, or on the penalty kill, he is able to play the minutes and adjust to any type of game.

"I want to make some offensive plays while at the same time playing a solid defensive game," says Gronvaldt. "My coach wants me to move the puck quickly to the offense and Marty and Mike want the same here, so I'm just going to play the same game as I do here in Niagara."

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Monday, November 29, 2010

NAHL announces Players of the Week

Press Release

The North American Hockey League (NAHL) has announced its Players of the Week, sponsored by SBK Hockey, for the week ending Nov. 28.

SBK HOCKEY/NORTH PLAYER OF THE WEEK
Chris Ciotti - St. Louis Bandits

St. Louis forward Chris Ciotti put home five goals and three assists as the Bandits skated to a three-game sweep over Janesville. On Friday, the Romeo, Mich., native tallied two goals and two assists, including one on Patrick Sheehan’s game-winning marker, in a 5-1 triumph. The next night, the 20-year-old struck for two more goals as the Bandits edged the Jets, 4-3. Ciotti scored another goal and assisted on Kevin Walters’ game-winner in a 2-0 victory on Sunday. The NAHL Top Prospects Tournament selection was also a plus-4 on the weekend.

“Chris was exceptional last weekend and has been a consistent leader this season,” said Bandits assistant coach Trevor Stewart. “He produces offensively and is responsible defensively. He’ll make a very good Division I hockey player."

HONORABLE MENTION: Chicago forward Gabe Gervais; Janesville forward Ross Mauermann; Motor City forward Andrew Graves; Port Huron forward Jeremy Humenny; St. Louis defensemen Patrick Sheehan and Kevin Zehnder; Traverse City defenseman Connor Schmidt

SBK HOCKEY/SOUTH PLAYER OF THE WEEK
Charles Baldwin - New Mexico Mustangs

New Mexico forward Charles Baldwin connected for five goals and two assists as the Mustangs celebrated a two-game sweep over Wichita Falls. On Saturday, the Santee, Calif., native notched the game-winning goal in a 4-3 triumph. The next night, the 18-year-old unleashed for four goals and a pair of assists as the Mustangs outlasted the Wildcats, 8-6. He was also a plus-4 on the weekend.

“It was awesome to see Charles use his speed and capitalize on his chances,” said Mustangs head coach Bill Muckalt. “Without question, he was the catalyst for our team last weekend.”

HONORABLE MENTION: Texas forward Rock Einersen; Topeka forward Ryan White

SBK HOCKEY/CENTRAL PLAYER OF THE WEEK
David Ripple - Coulee Region Chill

Coulee Region forward David Ripple struck for two goals and three assists as the Chill skated to a 2-1 record last week. After picking up an assist in a 6-1 loss to the Janesville Jets on Wednesday, the Winter Springs, Fla., native registered two more assists, including one on Lucas Dillon’s game-winning goal, in the Chill’s 5-1 triumph over the Austin Bruins on Thanksgiving. The 19-year-old tallied two goals on Saturday - a 4-3 victory over the Alexandria Blizzard. He was also a plus-4 for the week.

“David is a big, strong forward who likes to play in front of the net,” said Chill head coach Garrett Strot. “He continues to get better every game.”

SBK HOCKEY/WEST PLAYER OF THE WEEK
Jake Williams - Alaska Avalanche

Alaska defenseman Jake Williams rang up two goals and three assists as the Avalanche skated to a three-game sweep over Fresno. On Wednesday, the Duluth, Minn., native registered a goal and an assist in a 7-5 victory. Two nights later, the 20-year-old picked up an assist as the Avalanche downed the Monsters, 4-1. Williams scored the game-winning goal and added another assist in a 3-2 triumph on Saturday. The NAHL Top Prospects Tournament selection was also a plus-4 for the week.

“Jake is beginning to display his abilities at a high level,” said Avalanche head coach Brian Huebel. “He’s taking care of both ends of the ice and, as a defenseman, has been a big impact player for us.”

HONORABLE MENTION: Alaska forward Matt Friese

SBK HOCKEY/GOALTENDER OF THE WEEK
Tom Comunale - St. Louis Bandits

St. Louis goaltender Tom Comunale backstopped the Bandits to a pair of wins in his two starts against Janesville, turning aside 34 of 35 shots. On Friday, the Pittsburgh native made 15 saves in a 5-1 victory. Two nights later, the 19-year-old stopped all 19 shots he faced as the Bandits blanked the Jets, 2-0.

"Tom has steadily improved this season,” said Bandits assistant coach Trevor Stewart. “He competes hard and his confidence is continuing to grow.”

HONORABLE MENTION: Chicago’s Peter Mason; Texas’ Jimmy Kruger

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Kings' Johnson named Player of Week

Press Release

Dauphin King forward Kyle Johnson scored four powerplay goals last week, earning him MJHL Player of the Week honours.

Johnson, 20, had a week all hockey players dream of: seven goals and nine points in three games for the Kings who sit fourth in the tight Sher-Wood Division with 16 wins and 34 points.

Johnson, who hails from Buena Vista, Sk., is a typical power forward, using his 6-foot-3, 190-pound frame to his advantage as he helped the Kings post a 3-0 record last week.

Runners-up for the MJHL Player of the Week Award were Riley Feser of Waywayseecappo Wolverines and Shane Luke of Dauphin.

Feser, 18, was all but unbeatable in the Wolverines’ net, as he turned asked 37 of 38 shots on goal in posting a 2-0 record. His near-flawless play was reflected in a sizzling 0.50 GAA and .974 save percentage.

Luke, 20, is last year’s MJHL scoring champion. Last week he didn’t score a single goal: but he racked up nine assists! Four of those assists came while the Kings held the man advantage. Luke sits atop the Kings’ scoring race with 40 points (14-26).

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Knowles' nose for net earns him POW award

Press Release

Salmon Arm SilverBacks forward Brett Knowles has been named the British Columbia Hockey League's Player of the Week for the week ending November 28, the league announced Monday.

The Vanderhoof native is now averaging more than a point a game after a week that saw him collect four goals and four assists as Salmon Arm swept their three-game northern road trip.

Knowles recorded a goal and an assist in the SilverBacks' 5-4 win in Quesnel to start the trip but the best was yet to come as he erupted for five points and a hat trick the next night in a 7-4 triumph, also against Quesnel.

The 5-foot-11, 180-pound forward found the scoresheet again versus Prince George as Salmon Arm finished up with a 6-3 win.

Honourable mentions this week go to Nanaimo Clippers foward Sam Labrecque (four goals, two first star nods), Westside Warriors forward Grayson Downing (two goals, five assists and two first star nods) and Salmon Arm forward David Killip (two goals, six assists).

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

THIRTY-NINE PLAYERS INVITED TO CANADA'S NATIONAL JUNIOR TEAM SELECTION CAMP

Press Release

» Selection Camp Roster

TORONTO, Ont. - Hockey Canada and the Canadian Hockey League (CHL) announced on Monday that 39 of Canada's top junior-aged hockey players (born in 1991 or later) have been invited to take part in Canada's National Junior Team selection camp, December 12-15, 2010 at the MasterCard Centre in Toronto, Ont.

Of the 39 players invited, three are returning players - Jared Cowen (Allan, Sask./Spokane, WHL), Calvin de Haan (Carp, Ont./Oshawa, OHL) and Ryan Ellis (Freelton, Ont./Windsor, OHL) helped Canada earn the silver medal at the 2010 IIHF World Junior Championship in Regina and Saskatoon, Sask. Ellis also won a gold medal with Canada at the 2009 IIHF World Junior Championship in Ottawa, Ont. In addition, thirty-four of the players named to the selection camp roster were drafted in either the 2009 or 2010 NHL Entry Drafts, including eighteen first-round selections and four second-round picks.

Hockey Canada can still add additional players prior to the opening of the selection camp on December 12, in the event that NHL teams loan Canada's National Junior Team junior-aged eligible players currently playing in the NHL.

"On behalf of Hockey Canada, we want to congratulate the players named to the camp roster today, along with their club teams, parents and minor hockey coaches that have helped them reach this level," said Scott Salmond, Hockey Canada's senior director of hockey operations/national teams. "As well, we would like to thank the Canadian Hockey League for its partnership and support of the Program of Excellence."

"Thanks to Hockey Canada's Program of Excellence, many of these players have already received the experience necessary to deal with high-paced international competition such as the World Juniors," said Kevin Prendergast, Hockey Canada's head scout of the men's Program of Excellence. "The quality and skill of the 39 players invited to the camp next week is a testament of the hard work, commitment and development of all those involved in the Canadian minor hockey and junior hockey systems."

Prendergast, who was named head scout in September, travelled coast to coast during the early months of the 2010-11 season, assessing players in preparation for the selection camp.

"On behalf of the Canadian Hockey League, I would like to congratulate all players who have been named to the selection camp roster," said David Branch, president of the CHL. "This is a tremendous honour, and all have worked extremely hard to get to where they are today."

SELECTION CAMP INFORMATION

There will be two Red-White intrasquad games (December 12, 13) and one game against the Canadian University National Team (December 14). The team, made up of CIS players, will be representing Canada at the 2011 FISU Games in January 2011. Due to limited seating at the MasterCard Centre, accreditation (team, media, scouts) will be required for all practices and games. A select number of passes will be offered in a contest for Hockey Canada followers on its social media platforms. A draw for passes will occur on December 8. For information on the draw, go to www.Facebook.com/HockeyCanada and www.twitter.com/HockeyCanada.

Once the final roster is named at the conclusion of the selection camp in Toronto on December 15, Canada's National Junior Team will play in three pre-competition games in southern Ontario prior to the 2011 IIHF World Junior Championship, December 26 to January 5 in Buffalo, N.Y.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Prelim junior roster to be named Dec. 7

Press Release

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. - The preliminary roster for the 2011 U.S. National Junior Team will be unveiled Dec. 7 at a press conference at HSBC Arena in Buffalo, N.Y., USA Hockey announced today. The event is scheduled to begin at 11 a.m. EST and will be streamed live at USAHockey.com.

The roster will include approximately 28 players who will gather Dec. 16 in Albany, N.Y., for a training camp in preparation for the 2011 International Ice Hockey Federation World Junior Championship, Dec. 26-Jan. 5, in Buffalo, N.Y.

Jim Johannson, U.S. National Junior Team general manager and USA Hockey assistant executive director of hockey operations, will be on hand in Buffalo for the press conference, while Team USA Head Coach Keith Allain will be available via teleconference.

The final 22-player U.S. roster for the IIHF World Junior Championship will be announced exclusively on USAHockey.com prior to Team USA's pre-tournament game against Norway on Dec. 23.


(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Zack Phillips, Jonathan Hazen and Ondrej Palat are named TELUS three stars of the week

Press Release

BOUCHERVILLE, Monday, November 29th, 2010 – Forwards Zack Phillips, Jonathan Hazen and Ondrej Palat were named, today, the TELUS three stars of the week from November 22nd to November 28th, 2010.

Zack Phillips is the TELUS first star of the week. The Saint.John Sea Dogs forward registered four goals and two helpers for a total of six points, while keeping a +3 rating in two games. He played a big part in both Sea Dogs wins this week, earning first star honours in each contest.

The second star goes to the Val-d’Or Foreurs right winger, Jonathan Hazen. The veteran totalized three goals and 2 helpers for 5 points over the last weekend, while keeping a +1 rating in two wins over the Baie-Comeau Drakkar. Furthermore, last Monday, over a lost to the PEI Rocket, he did 2 helpers and was named third star of the game. He totalized seven points in three games last week.

Finally, the Drummondville Voltigeurs left winger Ondrej Palat, is this week the third star. The Czech forward scored four goals and two helpers in two games last weekend. He kept a +0 rating. He was named first and third star on Friday and Sunday respectively. On Friday night, the Drummondville Voltigeurs were playing their 1000th home game. They won over the Victoriaville Tigres.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

USHL Honors - Week Nine

Press Release

The United States Hockey League today announced the weekly award winners for the ninth week of the 2010-11 USHL regular season.

Congratulations to forward Dajon Mingo of the Des Moines Buccaneers, named CCM Offensive Player of the Week; defenseman Austin Coldwell of Des Moines Buccaneers, selected as CCM Defensive Player of the Week; and Scott Diebold of the Tri-City Storm who earned honors as the Reebok USHL Goaltender of the Week.

Mingo recorded six points (5g, 1a) in leading the Buccaneers to two victories during the weekend. He tallied three points (2g, 1a) in the second period alone, plus converted in the shootout of Friday's 6-5 win over Chicago. The 20-year-old then recorded a hat trick, which included the game-winning goal, in Saturday's 5-3 victory vs. Muskegon. Mingo is a native of Detroit, Michigan and is competing in his first USHL season. He leads the Bucs with eight goals and has recorded 11 points (8g, 3a) through 10 games. The forward is also tied for the team lead with a plus-six rating.

Coldwell dished out five assists and posted a plus-two rating over the Buccaneers two wins. The 20-year-old had two assists in Friday's 6-5 shootout win over Chicago. He then tallied three helpers in Saturday's 5-3 victory against Muskegon, including an assist on the game-winning goal. Coldwell currently leads the Bucs in scoring with 13 points (4g, 9a) in 14 games this season and ranks second among all USHL defensemen in scoring. The Vancouver, Washington native is in his second USHL season after playing 58 games in 2009-10 for Des Moines.

Diebold led the Storm to a pair of victories over the weekend, helping them snap a four-game winless stretch. He turned aside all 28 shots he faced in the 2-0 victory over Team USA on Friday. It was the second shutout of the season for Diebold. The 18-year-old then made 30 saves and stopped 4-of-5 attempts in the shootout during Saturday's 3-2 win against Sioux Falls. It was the first shootout win in four attempts this season for the Storm. Diebold is a native of Cheektowaga, New York and has won four games for the Storm during his first USHL season.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

CJHL Announces Weekly Top 20 Rankings

Press Release

The Canadian Junior Hockey League (CJHL) announced today its Weekly Top 20 rankings in conjunction with NHL Central Scouting. Last week’s rankings and the leagues in which the teams belong to are in parenthesis.

The CJHL Weekly Top 20 as of Monday, November 29, 2010

1. (1) Spruce Grove Saints (AJHL)
2. (3) Newmarket Hurricanes (OJHL)
3. (2) Powell River Kings (BCHL)
4. (4) Pembroke Lumber Kings (CJHL)
5. (5) Woodstock Slammers (MHL)
6. (8) Cornwall Colts (CJHL)
7. (14) Wellington Dukes (OJHL)
8. (7) Bonnyville Pontiacs (AJHL)
9. (9) Burlington Cougars (OJHL)
10. (10) Brockville Braves (CJHL)
11. (6) Markham Waxers (OJHL)
12. (11) Soo Thunderbirds (NOJHL)
13. (13) Yorkton Terriers (SJHL)
14. (12) Georgetown Raiders (OJHL)
15. (HM) Fort McMurray Oil Barons (AJHL)
16. (NR) Wisconsin Wilderness (SIJHL)
17. (NR) Swan Valley Stampeders (MJHL)
18. (HM) Salmon Arm Silverbacks (BCHL)
19. (NR) Winkler Flyers (MJHL)
20. (20) Les Cougars de Sherbrooke (LHJAAAQ)

Honorable mention goes to the Westside Warriors (BCHL), Okotoks Oilers (AJHL), St. Albert Steel (AJHL), Flin Flon Bombers (SJHL), and the Kingston Voyageurs (OJHL).

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Source for Sports AJHL Player of the Week: Nov 22nd - 28th, 2010

Press Release

Rookie Bart Moran of the Olds Grizzlys is the Source for Sports AJHL Player of the Week for November 22nd - 28th. Moran scored 4 goals and 3 assists in 3 consecutive wins for the Grizzlys last week. Moran was named player of the game on November 22nd and extended his 5 game point streak with a 3 point game on November 27th. Moran is 4th overall in scoring amongst rookies with 23 points. The Olds Grizzlys are 3rd overall in the AJHL South Division.

Bart Moran is a 17 year old forward from Calgary, Alberta.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

LINDEN VEY WHL PLAYER OF THE WEEK

Press Release

CALGARY, AB. – The WHL Player of the Week is forward Linden Vey of the Medicine Hat Tigers.

Vey picked up nine points, scoring four goals and five assists to go with a +6 rating, in three games over the past week, helping the Tigers to a 3-0-0-0 record.

On Tuesday, November 23rd, the Tigers hosted the Brandon Wheat Kings before embarking on their U.S. Division road trip. Vey scored two goals, including the game winner, added three assists and was named the games 1st Star as the Tigers downed the Wheat Kings 7-1. On Saturday, November 27th the Tigers were in Everett to face the Silvertips. Vey scored one goal and picked up two assists as the Tigers defeated the Silvertips 5-3. On Sunday, November 28th, the Tigers were in Portland to face the League leading Winterhawks. Vey scored his 10th goal in seven games to help lift the Tigers to a 3-2 shoot-out win over the Winterhawks.

Vey leads all WHL scorers with 47 points (18 goals, 29 assist) in 24 games played and has maintained a +19 rating. The Medicine Hat Tigers have won seven straight games and currently find themselves third in the WHL Central Division with 16-7-1-0 record for 33 points.

Vey, a 19 year old from Wakaw, SK, is playing his fourth season with the Medicine Hat Tigers. The Tigers made him their 2nd round (42th overall) selection at the 2006 WHL Bantam Draft and was selected in the 4th round (96th overall) in the 2009 NHL Draft by the Los Angeles Kings. Vey played all 72 games for the Tigers last season, leading the team in points with 75 and assists with 51.

The WHL has also nominated Adam Brown of the Kelowna Rockets for the CHL Goaltender of the Week Award. Brown posted a 2-0-0-0 record this past week, stopping 53 of 56 shots faced for a 1.620 goals-against average and 0.946 save percentage. Brown, a native of Yorba Linda, CA, helped lead the Rockets to a 6-1 win over the Regina Pats and a 3-2 road win over the Spokane Chiefs.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Otters’ Greg McKegg Named OHL Player of the Week

Press Release

Toronto, ON – The Ontario Hockey League today announced that for the second time this season Greg McKegg of the Erie Otters is the OHL Player of the Week. McKegg led the OHL with nine points in three games scoring six goals and three assists with a plus-minus rating of plus-5 for the week ending November 28.

McKegg began the week with a career-best four goals as first star of a 6-0 win over the Belleville Bulls on Thursday night. His first goal not only held as the game-winner, but sent 4,618 stuffed bears on the ice as part of the Otters’ third annual Teddy Bear toss for the Salvation Army. He also became just the sixth Otter in team history and the first since 2004 to score four goals in a single game. Later in the week McKegg scored two goals and one assist as second star of a 7-3 win over the Kitchener Rangers on Saturday, before tallying two assists in a 5-4 overtime win over the Guelph Storm on Sunday. His second assist set-up the game-winning goal by David Shields with just four seconds to play in the extra frame.

McKegg, an 18-year-old from St. Thomas, ON, is playing in his third OHL season with the Otters. The Otters’ captain is tied for fifth in league scoring with 20 goals and 20 assists for 40 points in 28 games so far this season. McKegg was selected by the Toronto Maple Leafs in the third round, 62nd overall, in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft. He also competed for Team OHL in the 2010 SUBWAY Super Series.

Barrie Colts’ forwards Mark Scheifele and Colin Behenna were each considered for the award. Scheifele produced eight points in three games including two goals and six assists, while Behenna scored three goals with four assists for seven points in three games. In goal, Scott Wedgewood of the Plymouth Whalers had another strong week with two wins including a shutout victory and a goals-against-average of 0.820 and save percentage of .974.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Tuesday's Game Against Titan Postponed

Press Release

The Rocket announced that due to the Val-d'Or game changes, the game scheduled for Tuesday night against Acadie-Bathurst is also being rescheduled. This game was originally postponed from October 30 and will now be rescheduled for later in the year. Details will be announced shortly!

The Rocket apologize for any inconvenience.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

DESTRY STRAIGHT COMMITS TO BC

Press Release

The Coquitlam Express are pleased to announce that 17 year old Destry Straight has committed to Boston College.

Straight has had many eyes on him since the NHL Central Scouting released their list in October and put him at the top in category A as a player to go first round in next years draft. With all the attention and a good start to the season, 10G & 18A in 27 games, Destry had a few options but is very happy with settling on Boston College.

The NCAA Division 1 hockey program is lead by head coach Jerry York and has appeared in 6 Frozen Four Finals since 2001, winning 3 championships, including last year.

Coquitlam head coach Jon Calvano thinks it's "great that Destry is going to a top 3 ranked school for both athletics and education". It is unknown at this time which year Destry will join the Boston College roster.

Ice chips: Destry Straight is the third Express player this year to commit, Garrick Perry (Alaska Fairbanks), Brad Reid (Rochester Institute of Technology)

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Sunday, November 28, 2010

Pontiacs to Honour Matt Cook

Press Release

The Bonnyville Pontiacs are pleased to announce plans to celebrate 'Matt Cook Night' December 15th, when the Drayton Valley Thunder visits the Bonnyville & District Centennial Centre's RJ Lalonde Arena.

Matt joined the Pontiacs for the 2005-2006 season, coming in as a robust 18-year-old rookie. In January 2006, Matt was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a rare type of cancer found most often in young people. After receiving a lower leg amputation, Cook turned his attention to sledge hockey where he became the youngest player named to the national sledge hockey team. While with Team Canada during the 2008-2009 season, Cook won gold at the World Championships, gold at the Four Nations Cup, and gold at the Hockey Canada Cup.

After a courageous fight, Matthew Cook passed away April 4th, 2010 in Edmonton.

Details continue to be added as family, friends, teammates, and dignitaries confirm attendance to be part of the celebration.

Matt's #23 jersey hasn't been worn by a Pontiacs player since he left and will now formally be retired, as he becomes the second alumni in franchise history to be awarded this distinction.

All donations and proceeds raised by way of silent auction will be forwarded to the Matt Cook Charitable Foundation which aims to raise awareness and funding to support the fight against rare cancers.


(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Thibodeau Honoured for 1,000th Game

Press Release

The AJHL and the Fort McMurray Oil Barons recognized Coach and General Manager Gord Thibodeau on coaching 1,000 regular season games behind an AJHL bench prior to the Northern Classic on Friday.

Gord Thibodeau is the only Coach in the history of the AJHL to have an AJHL Championship as both a player and Coach. He is only the second Coach in League history to reach the 1,000 game mark.

When asked, Gord states his main motivation for coaching is to develop young players on and off the ice and to prepare them for the next level. Over his career he has secured opportunities to succeed for hundreds of his players:

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

CJHL Announces Team East Roster For 2010 Prospects Game

Press Release

The Canadian Junior Hockey League (CJHL) announced today the roster for Team East at the sixth annual CJHL Prospects Game. The 2010 CJHL Prospects Game will be played on December 7-8 at Credit Union Place in Dauphin, Manitoba.

The Team East roster is selected from the CJHL's five eastern leagues, which include the Northern Ontario Junior Hockey League, Ontario Junior Hockey League, Central Hockey League, Ligue de hockey junior AAA du Québec and Maritime Hockey League. Player selection is a joint initiative of the CJHL and NHL Central Scouting.

The 2010 Team East roster is composed of ten players from the OJHL, five from the CHL, two from the MHL and LHJAAAQ and one from the NOJHL. Team East and Team West each consist of two goaltenders, six defensemen and twelve forwards.

The CJHL Prospects Game was created to showcase the top 40 NHL draft eligible players in the CJHL. The event includes a two-game, total goal series between Team East and Team West, which is well attended by local hockey fans, NHL scouts, and representatives from Canadian and American colleges and universities.

Goaltenders

League

Team
Charles Grant

MHL

Yarmouth
Jason Pucciarelli*

OJHL

Orangeville





Defence

League

Team
Philippe Archambault

LHJAAAQ

Laval
Ben Hutton

CHL

Kemptville
Luke Juha*

OJHL

Burlington
Mark Luzar*

OJHL

Burlington
Brennan Serville*

OJHL

Stouffville
Kevin Tansey*

CHL

Cumberland

Forwards

League

Team
Jesse Beamish*

OJHL

St. Michael's
Brian Bunnett*

OJHL

Wellington
Mitchell Deruelles

MHL

Weeks
Darcy Greenway

OJHL

Wellington
Jason Lacroix

NOJHL

Sudbury
Charles Power

LHJAAAQ

Granby
Brent Norris

CHL

Nepean
Matthew Peca*

CHL

Pembroke
Kyle Rankin

CHL

Kanata
Evan Rodrigues*

OJHL

Georgetown
Braedan Russell

OJHL

Oakville
Scott Wilson

OJHL

Georgetown

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Saturday, November 27, 2010

OHL Announces Minor Midget Top-10 Rankings for Annual Showcase Tournament

Press Release

Toronto, ON – The Ontario Hockey League today announced the fourth edition of the weekly minor midget rankings for the 2011 OHL Showcase for the OHL Cup, hosted by the Greater Toronto Hockey League.


The weekly rankings are determined by a panel of OHL Central Scouting Staff and represent the top teams that are competing to play in the annual year-end championship tournament March 23-27, 2011, at the Hershey Centre in Mississauga, ON.


Minor Midget Rankings for the 2011 OHL Cup Showcase Tournament – Week 4


RANK TEAM LEAGUE LAST WEEK RANK WEEKS IN RANKINGS
1 Toronto Marlies GTHL 1 4
2 Don Mills Flyers GTHL 2 4
3 Elgin-Middlesex Chiefs ALLIANCE 3 4
4 Welland Tigers OMHA 4 4
5 Mississauga Senators GTHL 5 4
6 Toronto Jr Canadiens GTHL 6 4
7 Halton Hurricanes OMHA 7 4
8 Ottawa Senators ODMHA 8 4
9 Barrie Colts OMHA - 1
10 Waterloo Wolves ALLIANCE - 1

Honourable Mention
St. Catharines Jr. Falcons OMHA - 1
York-Simcoe Express OMHA 10 2
Markham Majors GTHL -

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

8 BCHLers tabbed for CJHL Prospects Game

Press Release

The Canadian Junior Hockey League (CJHL) announced today the roster for Team West at the 2010 CJHL Prospects Game. The sixth annual CJHL Prospects Game will be played on December 7-8 at Credit Union Place in Dauphin, Manitoba.

Team West is composed of players from the CJHL's five western leagues, which include the British Columbia Hockey League, Alberta Junior Hockey League, Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League, Manitoba Junior Hockey League and Superior International Junior Hockey League. Player selection is a joint initiative of the CJHL and NHL Central Scouting.

Team West includes eight players from the BCHL, four from the SJHL, four from the MJHL, three from the AJHL and one from the SIJHL. Team East and Team West will each consist of two goaltenders, six defensemen and twelve forwards. The roster for Team East will be announced on Friday, November 26.

The CJHL Prospects Game was created to showcase the top 40 NHL draft eligible players in the CJHL. The event includes a two-game, total goal series between Team East and Team West, which is well attended by local hockey fans, NHL scouts, and representatives from Canadian and American colleges and universities.

Goaltenders

Jan Obernesser* AJHL/Brooks
Jason Kasdorf* MJHL/Portage

Defence

Sam Jardine* AJHL/Camrose
Luke Madill AJHL/Drayton Valley
Josh Roach SJHL/Humboldt
Brody Luhning SJHL/Battlefords
Eric Walker* BCHL/Trail
Michael King* BCHL/Westside

Forwards

Mitch VanTeeling MJHL/Dauphin
TJ Constant MJHL/OCN
Aaron Hadley BCHL/Vernon
Destry Straight* BCHL/Coquitlam
Shane Gingera MJHL/Winnipeg Saints
Sam Mellor* BCHL/Trail
Mitchell Deacon* BCHL/Coquitlam
Madison Dias BCHL/Victoria
Lucas Froese SJHL/Melville
Kyle Hall SJHL/Battlefords
Joey Baker* BCHL/Trail
Austin Adduono SIJHL/Wisconsin

* NHL Central Scouting Watch List

Earlier this month, 19 players from the Canadian Junior Hockey League were identified on the NHL Central Scouting "Players to Watch" list for the 2011 NHL Entry Draft. Nine players on the Team West roster were amongst those recognized.

Five alumni of the CJHL Prospects Game have been selected in the first round of the NHL Entry Draft, including Kyle Turris (BCHL), Riley Nash (BCHL), Beau Bennett (BCHL), Joe Colborne (AJHL) and Dylan Olsen (AJHL). Eleven Canadian Junior Hockey League players were selected in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft.

The 2010 CJHL Prospects Event will be hosted by the Dauphin Kings Junior A Hockey Team and Destination! Dauphin. Game 1 of the series will played at Credit Union Place on Tuesday, December 7 with Game 2 to follow on Wednesday, December 8. Faceoff for both games is 5:00 PM Pacific time.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Lino Martschini Named to Suiss National Junior Team Selection Camp

Press Release

Petes rookie forward Lino Martschini has been named to the Suiss National Junior Team Selection Camp beginning December 19th in Oshawa, Ontario. Martschini will join his Suiss teammates in Toronto on December 18th. the 2011 World Junior Championship begins in Buffalo, New York on December 26th where Switzerland will play Germany at 12:30.

The complete Suiss National Junior Team Selection Camp Roster is:

Pre-Camp in Oshawa, St. Catharines/CAN
December 18 - 24, 2010

Name Firstname Date of Birth Pos. Stick Height Weight Team

1 Conz Benjamin 13.09. 91 G R 179 94 SCL Tigers
20 Giovannini Remo 14.05. 91 G L 188 91 HC Davos
30 Meili Lukas 19.01. 92 G R 174 72 GCK Lions
7 Camperchioli Luca 22.01. 91 D L 183 96 ZSC Lions
3 Erni Samuel 09.04. 91 D L 176 75 EV Zug
28 Guerra Samuel 11.05. 93 D L 183 83 HC Davos
14 Kukan Dean 08.07. 93 D L 185 82 ZSC Lions
5 Loeffel Romain 10.03. 91 D R 176 81 HC Fribourg-Gottéron
8 Schlumpf Dominik 03.03. 91 D R 182 79 Shawinigan Cataractes/QHJML
6 Steiner Nicholas 28.06. 91 D L 182 90 Kloten Flyers
25 Sutter Dave 21.02. 92 D R 194 92 Seattle Thunderbirds/WHL
17 Trutmann Dario 17.09. 92 D R 181 84 Plymouth Whalers/OHL
32 Untersander Ramon 21.01. 91 D R 183 89 HC Davos
15 Bärtschi Sven 05.10. 92 F L 180 83 Portland Winterhawks/WHL
10 Bertaggia Alessio 30.07. 93 F L 170 64 HC Lugano
21 Engler Renato 22.08. 91 F L 172 78 HC Davos
11 Haas Gaëtan 31.01. 92 F R 181 76 EHC Biel
27 Herren Yannick 07.02. 91 F L 181 87 Kloten Flyers
13 Hofmann Gregory 13.11. 92 F L 181 77 HC Ambri-Piotta
18 Holenstein Manuel 12.02. 91 F L 168 65 HC Davos
16 Martschini Lino 21.01. 93 F R 164 53 Petersborough Petes/OHL
19 Mc Gregor Ryan 13.03. 91 F L 176 71 GCK Lions
22 Niederreiter Nino 08.09. 92 F L 184 94 Portland Winterhawks/WHL
16 Pestoni Inti 08.08. 91 F L 173 79 HC Ambri-Piotta
24 Reymondin Joel 10.07. 91 F L 184 77 HC Davos
9 Schäppi Reto 27.01. 91 F L 193 94 GCK Lions
10 Scherwey Tristan 07.05. 91 F L 176 80 SC Bern
26 Vermin Joël 05.02. 92 F L 178 81 SC Bern Future

Team Officials

Headcoach Jost Richard
Assistant Coach Soguel Serge
Assistant Coach Reinhard Alex
Team Manager Suri Bruno
Doctor Narozny Martin
Therapist / Masseur Ritter Thomas
Therapist / Masseur Rampa Fabio
Equipment Manager Rutishauser Jörg

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Friday, November 26, 2010

Webcast games cancelled in Gatineau this weekend

Press Release

BOUCHERVILLE, Friday, November 26, 2010 - Due to equipment failure in Gatineau, the Rocket vs. Olympiques game tonight as well as tomorrow's battle between the Cataractes and the Olympiques will not be available.

Technical crews will be sent to Gatineau shortly to resolve the issues with the goal to broadcast the Olympiques' next home game which is scheduled for Friday, December 10.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

MTS Centre to host Saints/Steelers on Saturday

Press Release

The beautiful MTS Centre in Winnipeg will be the site of the 2nd annual Red River Showdown. Steelers won last year's showdown 5-2.

Winnipeg Saints play host to rivals Selkirk Steelers, who sit atop the Addision Division. Game time is 7:30 p.m.

Saints GM/Head Coach David Anning says it's always an exciting time for the players when they have the opportunity to showcase their talents in the province's largest hockey venue.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

CORPUS CHRISTI ANNOUNCES FOUR ROSTER MOVES

Press Release

CORPUS CHRISTI, TX – Corpus Christi IceRays General Manager Pat Dunn announced today that the team has finalized four separate transactions.

First, the team has acquired forwards Jordan Miller (Trenton, MI) and Ryan Gauthier (Glenwood Springs, CO). Both were added to the team’s 23-man roster.

Secondly, the team announced that defensemen Luc Neitenbach (Brighton, CO) and Nikita Kardashev (Minsk, Belarus) were released.

Miller, 19, spent the last two seasons with the Alpena IceDiggers (NAHL). Last season, the 6’1, 177 lb. forward tallied five goals and six assists for 11 points in 24 games played before an injury caused him to miss the remainder of the season. Miller will wear #11 and has joined the team.

Gauthier, 18, was acquired from the Boulder Jr. Bison (WSHL), a Tier-III USA Junior Hockey team. Through 15 games played this season, Gauthier led his team in scoring as he collected nine goals and 16 assists for 25 points. Gauthier is expected to join the team this weekend.

Neitenbach, 20, was released after playing 14 games in Corpus Christi. He had one assist.

Kardashev, 18, was acquired from the Tri-City Americans (WHL) on October 30, 2010 and in eight games played, tallied one assist.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Rookie Commits to Michigan Tech

Press Release

PRINCE GEORGE, BC – The Prince George Spruce Kings Junior ‘A’ hockey club of the British Columbia Hockey League (BCHL) are extremely excited to announce that Jujhar Khaira (pron: jah_jar care-ah) has committed to a four year scholarship at Michigan Tech University and their NCAA Division I hockey program.

A sixteen year old rookie in the BCHL, Jujhar Khaira was identified by the Prince George Spruce Kings through their scouting network. Khaira is fifth on team scoring with 7 goals and 15 assists which places him among the top five rookies in the league. Eligible for the NHL Draft in 2012, Jujhar Khaira is focused on the game and his education. A grade 11 student, Khaira earned a spot on the Principal’s List with a 94% grade average.

Michigan Tech is a NCAA Division I school that prides itself in its engineering programs and is a nationally ranked school for engineering bachelor degrees awarded. Founded in 1951, the Michigan Tech Huskies have a history steeped in tradition and success including 36 NCAA championships. The Huskies play in the Western Collegiate Hockey Association (WCHA) against some of the top ranked hockey schools.

"Jujhar's success this year is a testament to his work ethic and passion for the game of hockey and to his commitment to his educational goals," said Spruce Kings President, Darcy Buryn. "It is further proof that players can thrive and will get noticed in the Spruce Kings program."

The Khaira family and the Prince George Spruce Kings would like to acknowledge the significant efforts of Ed Dempsey for his role in assisting Jujhar to attain this scholarship.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Dupas in as Head Coach for Spruce Kings

Press Release

PRINCE GEORGE, BC – The Prince George Spruce Kings of the British Columbia Hockey League (BCHL) today announced that Ed Dempsey has been relieved of his duties of General Manager and Head Coach of the hockey club. Taking over as the head coach of the Prince George Spruce Kings is Dave Dupas (pron: do‐paw).

Dupas has more than ten years of coaching experience at the Major Midget, Junior ‘B’ andJunior ‘A’ levels. Dupas also has four years of experience as a player in the British ColumbiaJunior Hockey League, another three years of NCAA Div I experience and four years playingsemi‐pro.

Dave Dupas will join the Prince George Spruce Kings for their next game – Thursday November25th in Westside versus the Warriors. The following night the Spruce Kings play in Merrittbefore returning home for Saturday night’s game in the Coliseum against the Salmon Arm Silverbacks.

The Prince George Spruce Kings would like to thank Ed Dempsey for his long tenure, dedicationand tireless work at promoting the team, its players and the city of Prince George and wish himall the best.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

WILD NAMES ROD COLLINS INTERIM HEAD COACH

Press Release

WENATCHEE, Wash. – The Wenatchee Wild announced today that it has named Rod Collins as its interim head coach. Chris Clark will continue in his role with the team as assistant coach.

In addition to his new duties as interim head coach, Collins will continue in his position as General Manger of the Wild as well as head coach of the Wenatachee Wild U18 team. Prior to joining the Wild, Collins was the head coach of boys hockey at Shattuck St. Mary’s, which is known as one of the top private school hockey programs in the nation. A native of Manitoba, Canada, Collins also owns Collins Elite Hockey, a hockey development program that he operates with assistance from his children.

Collins replaces Paul Baxter, who served as the team’s head coach for two-plus seasons. Baxter led the Wild to two West Division titles and the Presidents’ Cup as the team with the most regular-season points in the NAHL in 2009-10. Baxter was also an integral part of the early success of the team, which advanced to the Robertson Cup championship game during its inaugural season in the league in 2008-09.

“Paul is a friend and a great coach,” said Bill Stewart, president and managing partner of the Wenatchee Wild. “He has helped move many players on to the college ranks, and we will support Coach Baxter in his future endeavors.”

Baxter has been offered a position in the organization as an advisor to the General Manager. The Wild will begin a search for a new full-time head coach.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Thursday, November 25, 2010

Bruins Acquire Hrynyk from Raiders

Press Release

The Chilliwack Bruins announced today that they have acquired 18 year old defenceman Emerson Hrynyk from the Prince Albert Raiders in exchange for goaltender Cole Holowenko.

In 50 games with the Raiders over the last two seasons, Hrynyk scored twice, added four assists and was plus seven.

Name: Emerson Hrynyk
Position: Defence
Shoots/Catches: Right
Height 6'2"
Weight 194
Birthdate: 1992-09-09
Hometown: Okanagan Falls, BC

The Bruins are back on the ice Friday night when they host the Portland Winterhawks

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Storm hires Mike Kelly as VP & GM

Press Release

The Guelph Storm is pleased today to announce that Mike Kelly has joined the organization as Vice President & General Manager of the club. Jason Brooks will remain as the team’s Head Coach.

In his new role, Mike will oversee all hockey operations with the team. A former OHL Executive of the Year, Mike has had significant involvement in the OHL over the past several years including being one of the key drivers to the team’s development and successes in the first decade of its existence.

Rick Hoyle, President of the Guelph Storm, commented, “We are very pleased to have someone of Mike’s caliber and background join the organization. We know he will continue to both represent and develop the values and successes of the Guelph Storm in the future.”

Mike Kelly commented, “I am extremely pleased to return to the Ontario Hockey League and am particularly happy to return to the Guelph Storm. The Storm were a major part of my life for many years. The team has continued with its winning ways for the past several years and I am excited about helping the team move forward with its goals to achieve an OHL championship.

The Storm returns to action Friday night as they host the Belleville Bulls at the Sleeman Centre for a 7:30 pm start.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

OHL Announces New Playing Rule Effective Friday, November 26, 2010

Press Release

Toronto, ON – The Ontario Hockey League today announced a new playing rule that will come into effect with the commencement of games on Friday, November 26, 2010.

The rule, which is an extension of the league’s ongoing efforts to remove needless elements from the game was approved by the league Governors at a meeting this past Monday.

The new rule is….“If two or more players should enter into a fight, prior to, or at the drop of the puck at the commencement of any period of a game, then such player(s) shall be assessed an automatic game misconduct in addition to any penalties assessed, the OHL Member Team shall be fined $500.00 and the player(s) suspended for one (1) game. For any subsequent offence by the same team, the fine shall increase in $500.00 increments, and for any subsequent offence by the same player the minimum suspension would double from the previous occurrence.”

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Rescheduling information: Saint John vs. Bathurst

Press Release

BOUCHERVILLE, Wednesday, November 24, 2010 - The Quebec Major Junior Hockey League today announced the new date and time of the Sea Dogs vs. Titan game which was postponed last Saturday.

Game #234 between the two rivals will be played on Wednesday, December 1 at the K.C. Irving Regional Centre in Bathurst. Puck drop will be at 7:30 pm.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Rams move Bragg, Barron & Waye to Timberwolves

Press Release

The deal, which sees the Tmberwolves pick up veterans Bragg and Barron from the Rams, has defensemen Jacob Harcoff and Ryan Curzon heading over to Amherst. Barron has 19 point in 22 outings with the Ramblers so far this season while Bragg has 7 points in 13 games. Jonathan Waye, who is in his third season with the club, heads to the Timberwolves with 13 games under his belt with 4 wins and 6 losses.

Harcoff, a defenseman hailing from Surrey B.C., has turned in 4 points in 5 games with the Timberwolves while Curzon, a big defenseman from Estevan, Saskatchewan has turned in 3 points in 9 outings.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Lancers to Play in New Home Beginning in 2012

Press Release

As the Omaha Lancers celebrate their 25th Anniversary season as one of the United States Hockey League's (USHL) premier Member Clubs, the organization is pleased to announce another milestone today. Thanks to the vision and support of Ralston's Mayor Don Groesser and the Ralston City Council, the Omaha Lancers will return home to the 72nd Street corridor and the metropolitan's midtown region beginning with the 2012-2013 season.

"Ralston is proud to become the new home for the Omaha Lancers," said Don Groesser, Mayor of the City of Ralston. "This partnership will allow Ralston to provide a great facility not only for the Lancers but also for the citizens of Ralston and the metro area. Besides Omaha Lancers hockey games, there will be multiple events such as concerts and other sporting events."

"We were pleased when Mayor Groesser proactively approached the Lancers regarding this opportunity at 72nd and Q Street," said Ben Robert, President and Managing Partner for the Omaha Lancers Hockey Club. "The Civic Auditorium has been a great venue for Lancers hockey for the past two seasons and we are extremely appreciative of everyone that helped move the Lancers back to Omaha. Still, it has always been a phased approached plan to ultimately find a permanent home for the Omaha Lancers. It was also important to the organization to fulfill our commitment to MECA and the Civic Auditorium, which will be fulfilled at the end of the 2011 - 2012 season, so the timing was perfect."

Robert added, "72nd Street and the midtown region are where Omaha Lancers hockey began 25 years ago and where Omaha Lancers hockey belongs now. This new complex will provide our fans with affordable entertainment that includes reasonable ticket prices, free parking, concessions, and high level and exciting hockey."

After an extensive analysis of other USHL and hockey venues, it was determined an approximately 3,500 seat state-of-the-art arena is the optimal size to create the enthusiasm and energy of other venues. The complex will also be used to draw youth hockey tournaments and thousands of visitors to the Omaha metropolitan area.

Located at the former Lakeview Golf Course, the Ralston Convention and Sports Complex is part of the city's Economic Redevelopment Plan. The estimated $25 million facility will house a 3,500 seat multi-use arena and a single sheet community ice rink.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Wednesday, November 24, 2010

CHILLIWACK BRUINS' MANNING SIGNS WITH PHILADELPHIA

Press Release

The Chilliwack Bruins announced today that defenceman Brandon Manning has signed a three year entry level contract with the NHL’s Philadelphia Flyers. After going undrafted in last summer’s NHL Entry Draft, Manning, who currently leads all WHL defencemen in scoring with 26 points, was free to sign with the NHL team of his choice.

In 167 career games with the Bruins, the native of Prince George BC has scored 34 goals and 75 assists. He has served as the Bruins Captain since January 10th, 2010.

“I’d like to thank the Bruins organization for providing me the opportunity to play and learn what it takes to make it to the next level,” said Manning who joined the Bruins late in the 2007-08 season. “It’s an exciting day for me and my family and it’s nice to get the contract situation out of the way.”

Next action for Manning and the Bruins is Wednesday night when they host the Prince George Cougars.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

CHL Announces BMO CHL MasterCard Top 10 Rankings

Press Release

Toronto, ON – The Canadian Hockey League today announced the BMO CHL MasterCard Top 10 Rankings for week ten of the 2010-11 season. The weekly rankings of the Canadian Hockey League’s Top 10 teams are selected by a panel of National Hockey League scouts.

BMO CHL MasterCard Top 10 Rankings – Week 10
Rank Team (Record) Last Week Rank Number of Weeks Ranked
1 Mississauga St. Michael's Majors (20-2-0-1) 1 10
2 Portland Winterhawks (20-4-0-1) 2 6
3 Saint John Sea Dogs (19-3-0-2) 3 7
4 Quebec Remparts (19-5-0-2) 4 9
5 Saginaw Spirit (17-4-2-1) 5 8
6 Saskatoon Blades (17-5-0-1) 6 10
7 Montreal Juniors (18-4-2-1) 9 4
8 Owen Sound Attack (16-5-0-1) 7 8
9 Kootenay Ice (16-6-0-2) 8 4
10 Kitchener Rangers (16-5-0-1) 10 5

Honourable Mention:
Lewiston MAINEiacs (18-8-0-2) - 0
Red Deer Rebels (16-7-1-1) - 5
Ottawa 67's (16-9-0-0)

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Generals’ Thomas Named CHL Player of the Week

Press Release

Toronto, ON – The Canadian Hockey League today announced that Christian Thomas of the Oshawa Generals is the CHL Player of the Week after scoring 10 points in two games for the week ending November 21. Thomas had five goals and five assists with a plus-minus rating of plus-5.

Thomas led the Generals to two wins beginning with his first career six-point game on Friday night as part of a 10-3 win over the Erie Otters. He scored three goals and three assists and was named first star of the game. On Saturday night he recorded a four-point game scoring twice and adding two assists as first star of a 7-4 win over the Barrie Colts.

Thomas, an 18-year-old from Toronto, ON, is a New York Rangers prospect selected in the second round, 40th overall in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft. Playing in his third OHL season, Thomas had 33 points in 20 games so far this season to lead the Generals.

Alex Belzile of the Rimouski Oceanic was also considered after an impressive showing in two games this week with seven points including two goals and five assists with a plus-minus rating of plus-6. In the WHL, Kellan Tochkin led the Everett Silvertips to three wins and also produced seven points including four goals and three assists with a plus-minus rating of plus-7.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

MAINEiacs’ Nicholas Champion Named Vaughn CHL Goaltender of the Week

Press Release

Toronto, ON – The Canadian Hockey League today announced that Nicholas Champion of the Lewiston MAINEiacs is the Vaughn CHL Goaltender of the Week for the week ending November 21. Champion won two games posting a goals-against-average of 1.94 and save percentage of .940.

Champion backstopped the MAINEiacs to a key East Division win over the top ranked Quebec Remparts on Friday night with 34 saves including 14 in the third period to preserve the 4-3 victory. On Saturday night he continued his strong play with 29 saves including four in the extra frame to earn second star honours defeating the Shawinigan Cataractes 2-1 in overtime. The MAINEiacs have now won nine out of their last 10 games and are in second place with 38 points in the East Division standings.

Champion, a 20-year-old from Labrador City, Newfoundland, is playing in his fourth QMJHL season and first with the MAINEiacs. He leads the QMJHL with 16 wins and is among the league leaders in goals-against-average with a mark of 2.29 and save percentage at .908.

Scott Wedgewood of the Plymouth Whalers was also considered for the award after winning two games and posting a goals-against-average of 1.50 and save percentage of .952. In the WHL, Laurent Brossoit of the Edmonton Oil Kings earned first star honours with a 3-0 shutout win over the Red Deer Rebels on Saturday night with 32 saves.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

BRUINS AND DAUPHIN SWING TRADE

Press Release

The Estevan Bruins and the Dauphin Kings of the MJHL have swung a one for one trade. The Bruins send 20 year old forward Kyle Johnson (Buena Vista, SK) to Dauphin for 19 year old forward Chris Daniels (Winnipeg, MB). Daniels, who played for Weyburn last season, was having a strong season in Dauphin as he had 13 goals and 13 assists in 28 games. Johnson had 6 goals and 12 assists for the Bruins this season. Its expected Daniels will make his Bruins debut on Saturday in Weyburn.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

NAHL announces Top Prospects jersey auction

Press Release

The North American Hockey League (NAHL) has announced that it will auction off all game-worn player jerseys from the upcoming NAHL Top Prospects Tournament through eBay.

The auction, which will include all player jerseys from Team Legwand (Gold), Team Miller (Blue), Team Rafalski (Red) and Team Weight (White), will open on Wednesday, Dec. 1 and close on Saturday, Dec. 11, with the bid for each jersey starting at $150.

Bids can be placed at NAHL.com/Auction.

The jerseys, designed by the NAHL and manufactured by OT Sports, are stitched and sewn with each player’s last name and number. A patch of the players’ NAHL team logo is also included on the front of the jersey.

The NAHL Top Prospects Tournament will be held from Dec. 5-7 at the Iorio Ice Arena in Walpole, Mass. For more information on the event, visit NAHLTopProspects.com.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Tuesday, November 23, 2010

Clarke traded to Cataractes

Press Release

BOUCHERVILLE, Tuesday, November 23, 2010 – The Halifax Mooseheads and the Shawinigan Cataractes traded assets today.

The Mooseheads sent defenseman Garrett Clarke (92-11-03) to the Cataractes for a fourth round pick in 2011.

Clarke registered 22 points in 45 games with Halifax last season.

Of note, since Garrett Clarke does not play in the QMJHL, he will not be able to integrate the Shawinigan Cataractes’ line-up before the beginning of the 3rd trading period (rule 2.14.2).

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

QMJHL suspends two players

Press Release

BOUCHERVILLE, Tuesday, November 23, 2010 - The Quebec Major Junior Hockey League Disciplinary Prefect, Raymond Bolduc, today suspended two players for incidents which occurred last Sunday.

Rouyn-Noranda Huskies winger Christophe Déry is suspended for a total of three games for high-sticking while Saint John Sea Dogs forward Michael Kirkpatrick is suspended three games for a check from behind.

The decisions were rendered after reviewing the videotapes of the incidents, gathering testimonies from the players and the organizations involved, reading the officials’ reports and consulting the independent committee in the matter of disciplinary sanctions.

The Disciplinary Prefect will not be available for further comment.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

8 QMJHL players named on Team Atlantic

Press Release

SAINT JOHN, NB, Tuesday, November 23rd, 2010 - The names of the players who will make up the 2011 edition of the Under 17 Male Team Atlantic were announced in Saint John Tuesday. Team Atlantic is comprised of players from each of the four Atlantic Provinces.

The team will represent Atlantic Canada at the 2011 World Under 17 Hockey Challenge, December 29th- January 4th, in Winnipeg/Portage la Prairie, Manitoba.

“Our coaching staff had to make some very difficult decisions, but we are confident that the twenty-two players that have been named to the team today will be great ambassadors on and off the ice for Atlantic Canada and I am sure that they will represent the Atlantic region with great pride”, stated Nic Jansen, General Manager for Team Atlantic.

Team Atlantic Under 17 Male team will be comprised of eleven players from Nova Scotia, five players from New Brunswick, three players from Prince Edward Island, and three players from Newfoundland and Labrador.

"Our group that will represent our region of the country will have their first opportunity to put on the sweater bearing the Maple Leaf crest, a dream of most young Canadians." commented Greg Leland, Head Coach for Team Atlantic Under 17.

Team Atlantic will depart for Winnipeg on December 26th. They will play an exhibition game on December 28th against Czech Republic prior to playing their first tournament game against Quebec on December 29th. Team Atlantic will also face off against Finland, the United States and Germany in the round robin portion of the event.

"These twenty-two fortunate young athletes will be able to participate against the top players of their age category from the rest of the world, a truly unique experience. With this privilege, comes responsibility" added Leland. “We will continue the tradition of Team Atlantic in terms of competing with the highest possible energy, passion, discipline and integrity. We are well aware of the challenge that lies ahead, and will approach our competition from a united front which ensures success, regardless of the outcome", Leland further commented.

A complete listing of players and staff for Team Atlantic follows below:

Team Atlantic Under 17 - 2011



GOALIES

Jacob Brennan – Hammonds Plains, NS

Brandon Whitney – Centreville, NS



DEFENCE

Michael Abbott – St. John’s, NL

Brett Beauvais – Summerside, PEI

Justin Hachè – Petit-Rocher, NB

Aaron Hoyles – Halifax, NS

Matt Murphy – Fredericton, NB

Mitchell Shewfelt – Dartmouth, NS

Brayden Wood - Oromocto, NB



FORWARDS

Stephen Anderson – Morell, PEI

Taylor Burke - Halifax, NS

Matt Bursey – Saint John, NB

Kyle Farrell – Howie Center, NS

Nathan MacKinnon – Cole Harbour, NS

Craig MacLauchlan – Charlottetown, PEI

Brett Malone – Miramichi, NB

Liam O’Brien – Halifax, NS

Devon Oliver-Dares – Cole Harbour, NS

Ryan Penny – Fall River, NS

Brandon Pye – St. John’s, NL

Andrew Ryan - Paradise, NL

Brent Turnbull – Stellarton, NS



Team Atlantic Staff

Greg Leland, Head Coach, Quispamsis, NB

Stephane LeBlanc, Assistant Coach, Moncton, NB

Doug Jackman, Assistant Coach, St. John’s, NL

Ryan Leland, Goaltending Coach, Quispamsis, NB

Kevin Mitchell, Director of Hockey Operations, Halifax, NS

Nic Jansen, General Manager, Saint John, NB

Chris Beaudoin, Trainer, Fredericton, NB

Nathan Belliveau, Equipment Manager, Saint John, NB

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Capitals' Maller commits to New Hampshire

Press Release

The DC Capitals, members of the North American Prospects Hockey League (NAPHL), have announced that 18U defenseman Dylan Maller has committed to the University of New Hampshire (Hockey East) for the 2013-14 season.

“Dylan is a fantastic skater, both forward and backward, and when you couple that with his size (6-foot-1, 163 pounds) - and what his size is going to be - then you’ve got a player with not only college, but pro potential, too,” Capitals 18U coach Jason Kersner told USHR.com.

Maller was scoreless through five NAPHL games this season.

Maller is the third Capital and NAPHL player to commit to New Hampshire, joining forwards Casey Thrush and Maxim Gaudreault, both of whom played in the league last season.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Jr. K-Wings tab Falker head coach, general manager

Press Release

The Kalamazoo Jr. K-Wings, who will begin play in the North American Hockey League next season, have announced that Marc Fakler has been named the team’s head coach and general manager.

Fakler is currently the associate director of hockey operations, director of player advancement and Bantam Major head coach for the West Michigan Hounds AAA Hockey Club.

“We received hundreds of resumes and Marc’s philosophy and understanding of what it takes to get players to the collegiate level made him the perfect choice,” said Paul L. Pickard, the Jr. K-Wings’ president.

From 2006-10, Fakler served as an assistant coach at Western Michigan University (CCHA). He also served two seasons (2004-06) as an assistant coach for Robert Morris University (Atlantic Hockey).

With Robert Morris, Fakler was the team’s academic and recruiting coordinator and helped his players earn a collective GPA of 3.1 or higher. Fakler was also responsible for recruiting the top scorer in Robert Morris’ history.

“We wanted to bring in a general manager and head coach who could handle more than the X’s and O’s, and we got him in Marc,” Pickard added.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Monday, November 22, 2010

Troops trade Jones for pair of picks

Press Release

BRAMPTON, Ont. – The Brampton Battalion has traded left winger Sean Jones to the Kingston Frontenacs, the Ontario Hockey League club announced Monday.

In exchange for Jones, who was one of three Battalion overagers, the club receives a third-round pick in the 2011 OHL Priority Selection and a fifth-round choice in 2013.

The Battalion, which has lost its last five games and 10 of the last 11, still has left winger Stephon Thorne and right winger Scott Tanski as overagers.

“It was a tough decision,” said Stan Butler, director of hockey operations and head coach. “But given the uncertainty of our goaltending right now, I thought it was important to open up an overage spot in case I need to use it for a goalie as the season moves along.”

The Battalion acquired Jones from the Erie Otters on Aug. 24, 2009, for a sixth-round pick in the 2011 OHL Priority Selection and the rights to defenceman Evan Accettura. Jones, who has 11 goals and five assists for 16 points in 22 games this season, led the Troops with 32 goals and 49 points in 68 games last season, adding eight goals and four assists for 12 points in 11 playoff games.

“Sean was a very talented offensive player for our team, and he scored some big goals,” said Butler.

Butler said the trade helps the club for the future.

“The trade gives us another third-round pick next year. We don’t have a second-round pick next year, but at least we have three picks over the first three rounds, and I think that’s important.”

Kingston, which hosts the Battalion on Friday night, is tied with the Oshawa Generals for second place in the East Division. The Frontenacs have made two other significant trades recently, acquiring 18-year-old centre Ryan Spooner from the Peterborough Petes and overage defenceman Mitch Gaulton from Erie.

“This is a great opportunity for Sean,” said Butler. “He’s going to a really good program with a really good coach in Doug Gilmour. There are a lot of talented players there, and adding Sean along with Spooner and Gaulton will help them be right there as one of the top contenders in the Eastern Conference.”

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Piston's Harms named Player of Week

Press Release

Steinbach Piston Tyler Harms recorded two hattricks in three games, earning him MJHL Player of the Week honours.

Harms, who hails from Steinbach, was a one-man scoring machine while on the powerplay, scoring four goals with the man advantage. In total the 20-year-old forward recorded nine points (3-6) in helping the Pistons put together a four-game winning streak.

Harms has been a consistent contributor to the Pistons’ offensive attack, reflected in his 26 points (14-12) in 25 games this season.

Runners-up for the MJHL Player of the Week honours were 19 year old forward Paul Van de Velde of the Waywayseecappo Wolverines and goaltender Joey Rewucki, 19, of the Selkirk Steelers.

Van de Velde, who hails from Mariapolis (west of Morden), recorded nine points (4-5) in three games for the Wolverines.

Rewucki was nearly unbeatable in the Steelers’ net, allowing only five goals on 140 shots. Over a three-game span, the East St. Paul native went undefeated, while recording a sizzling 1.62 GAA and .964 save percentage for the Steelers who sit atop the Addison Division with 18 wins and 40 points.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

NAHL announces Players of the Week

Press Release

The North American Hockey League (NAHL) has announced its Players of the Week, sponsored by SBK Hockey, for the week ending Nov. 21.

SBK HOCKEY/NORTH PLAYER OF THE WEEK
Travis White - Traverse City North Stars

Traverse City defenseman Travis White connected for two goals and three assists as the North Stars skated to a 2-1 record against St. Louis. After being held scoreless on Friday - a 4-1 loss - the Sterling Heights, Mich., native put home a goal and two assists the next night in a 5-3 victory. On Sunday, the 20-year-old tallied the game-winning goal and an assist as the North Stars bested the Bandits, 4-1. The NAHL Top Prospects Tournament selection was also a plus-3 on the weekend.

“Travis is our leader and he proved that last weekend,” said North Stars head coach Anthony Palumbo. “He played a pivotal role in our success against a very good St. Louis team.”

HONORABLE MENTION: Chicago forward Gabe Gervais; Michigan forward Scott Henegar

SBK HOCKEY/SOUTH PLAYER OF THE WEEK
Michael Hill - Topeka RoadRunners

Topeka forward Michael Hill rang up three goals and three assists as the RoadRunners celebrated a two-game sweep over Texas. On Friday, the Fort Worth, Texas, native recorded a goal and two assists in a 5-3 victory. The next night, the 20-year-old NAHL Top Prospects Tournament selection connected for two more goals, including the game-winner, and an assist as the RoadRunners downed the Tornado, 5-1. The University of Alaska-Fairbanks recruit was also a plus-5 on the weekend.

“Michael had an outstanding weekend,” said RoadRunners assistant coach R.J. Enga. “He led by example with his play in all areas of the game and scored some big goals for us that really helped lift our team in a very important series at home.”

HONORABLE MENTION: Amarillo forward Cody Freeman; Texas forward Rock Einersen; Topeka forward Justin Hussar; Wichita Falls forward Jason McAloon

SBK HOCKEY/CENTRAL PLAYER OF THE WEEK
Nardo Nagtzaam - Alexandria Blizzard

Alexandria forward Nardo Nagtzaam struck for four goals and three assists as the Blizzard skated to a two-game sweep over Aberdeen. On Friday, the Netherlands native tallied a pair of goals and two assists, including one on Brent Bain’s game-winning marker, in a 4-2 victory. The next night, the 20-year-old notched two more goals, including the game-winner, and an assist as the Blizzard downed the Wings, 4-1. The Mercyhurst College recruit was also a plus-2 on the weekend.

“Nardo really picked up his game last weekend and showed why he’s one of the best players in the league,” said Blizzard assistant coach Jeff Crouse. “He played well in all ends of the rink and we look forward to him continuing to being a leader for our hockey team.”

HONORABLE MENTION: Bismarck forward Matt Gates

SBK HOCKEY/WEST PLAYER OF THE WEEK
Erick Ware - Kenai River Brown Bears

Kenai River defenseman Erick Ware came through with a goal and five assists as the Brown Bears skated to a two-game sweep over Wenatchee. On Friday, the Huntsville, Ala., native picked up four assists, including one on Doug Beck’s overtime game-winner, in a 5-4 triumph. The next night, the 20-year-old added a goal and an assist in regulation along with a shootout marker as the Brown Bears again edged the Wild, 5-4. He was also a plus-1 on the weekend.

“Erick was exceptional last weekend,” said Brown Bears head coach Oliver David. “He’s a powerful skating defenseman who has great offensive ability. Not to mention he's got a knack for the power play, that's for sure.”

HONORABLE MENTION: Alaska forwards Jacob Barber and Brandon Brossoit

SBK HOCKEY/GOALTENDER OF THE WEEK
Ryan Faragher - Bismarck Bobcats

Bismarck goaltender Ryan Faragher backstopped the Bobcats to a two-game sweep over Owatonna, turning aside 55 of 57 shots. On Friday, the NAHL Top Prospects Tournament selection from Fort Frances, Ontario, native made 18 saves in a 3-1 victory. The next night, the 20-year-old Dartmouth College recruit stopped 37 shots in regulation and overtime and all five in the shootout as the Bobcats downed the Express, 2-1.

“Ryan has been outstanding for us this year,” said Bobcats head coach Layne Sedevie. “He’s been the backbone of this team and every time we need him to make a big save, he’s there.”

HONORABLE MENTION: Alexandria’s Jake Williams; Topeka’s Rasmus Tirronen

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

USHL Honors - Week Eight

Press Release

The United States Hockey League today announced the weekly award winners for the eighth week of the 2010-11 USHL regular season.

Congratulations to forward Jimmy Mullin of the Fargo Force, named CCM Offensive Player of the Week; defenseman Jake McCabe of Team USA, selected as CCM Defensive Player of the Week; and Kevin Murdock of the Lincoln Stars who earned honors as the Reebok USHL Goaltender of the Week.

Mullin recorded five points (2g, 3a) and posted a plus-six rating in two victories for the Force. The 18-year-old dished out two assists, including one on the game-winning goal, in the 3-2 win over Sioux Falls on Friday, which helped the Force snap a seven-game winless stretch (0-6-1). Mullin then collected three points (2g, 1a) in the 8-3 victory over Waterloo on Saturday. It was his first USHL games in nearly three weeks as he was helping the U.S. Junior Select Team capture gold at the World Junior A Challenge. Mullin is in his first USHL season and leads the Force with seven goals.

McCabe tallied two points (1g, 1a) and a plus-three rating in two victories for Team USA's Under-18 squad. The defenseman scored the team's first goal and assisted on another in the 5-2 win over Indiana on Friday. It was his first career USHL goal which came on his first shot on goal this season. McCabe also posted a game high plus-three rating in the contest. The 17-year-old from Eau Claire, Wisconsin has played three USHL games this season after competing in 35 games in 2009-10 for Team USA's Under-17 squad.

Murdock earned two victories during the week for the Stars, posting a 1.00 goals-against-average and a .966 save percentage. He turned away all 28 shots he faced in the 8-0 win over Tri-City on Tuesday for his second shutout in a span of three starts. The 20-year-old then made 27 saves in the 3-2 win vs. Sioux City on Friday which extended the Stars winning streak to six games. The native of Bradenton, Florida has been in net for all six of those victories, compiling a 1.32 GAA and .955 SV% during that span. Murdock has won seven games this season, which is his third overall with the Stars.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Generals’ Christian Thomas Named OHL Player of the Week

Press Release

Toronto, ON – The Ontario Hockey League today announced that Oshawa Generals’ forward Christian Thomas is the OHL Player of the Week for the week ending November 21. Thomas led the OHL with 10 points in two games scoring five goals and five assists with a plus-minus rating of plus-5.

Thomas played his two best games of the season this past week beginning with his first career six-point game on Friday night. He recorded his second hat-trick of the season and added three assists as first star of a 10-3 win over the Erie Otters. He followed that up with a four-point game on Sunday and was again named first star of the game scoring two goals and two assists in a 7-4 win over the Barrie Colts.

Thomas, an 18-year-old from Toronto, ON, is playing in his third OHL season. Selected by the New York Rangers in the second round of the 2010 NHL Entry Draft, 40th overall, he currently sits 12th in league scoring with 17 goals and 16 assists for 33 points in 20 games. Thomas also competed with Team OHL in the 2010 SUBWAY Super Series and scored a goal in the 4-0 win over Team Russia in London, ON.

Also considered for the award this week was Jason Akeson of the Kitchener Rangers and Andrew Agozzino of the Niagara IceDogs. Akeson scored three goals and added six assists for nine points in three games, while Agozzino had five points in two games including a four-goal game as first star of a 5-3 win over the Ottawa 67`s on Saturday night. In goal, Scott Wedgewood of the Plymouth Whalers won two games posting a goals-against-average of 1.50 and save percentage of .952.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Alex Belzile, Nicholas Champion and Cory MacIntosh named TELUS three stars of the week

Press Release

BOUCHERVILLE, Monday, November 22nd, 2010 – Fowards Alex Belzile and Cory MacIntosh, and goaltender Nicholas Champion were named, today, the TELUS three stars of the week from November 15th to November 21st 2010.

Alex Belzile is TELUS first star of the week. The Rimouski Oceanic forward registered two goals and five helpers for a total of seven points, while keeping a +6 rating in two games. He helped a lot to get his team back on the victory road.

The Lewinston MAINEiacs backstop is this week’s second star after he helped his teammates collect two wins in three games with stellar performances against the Quebec Remparts and the Shawinigan Cataractes. He finished the week with a 1,94 goals-against-average and .940 save percentage by stopping 63 of the 67 shots he faced. He was named second and third star on Friday and Saturday respectively. It’s good to mention that Lewiston was on the road last weekend for three games.

The Cape Breton Screaming Eagles winger Cory MacIntosh is the third star following a an impressive two games in two days collecting three goals and four assists, for a total of seven points. Moreover, he finished the week with a +0 rating considering the Eagles lost its game against the PEI Rocket last Friday. He was named second and third star respectively on the Thursday and Friday.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)
Press Release

The Camrose Kodiaks are pleased to announce that 17-year-old defenseman Jonathan Lashyn (Saskatoon, SK) has committed to attend Merrimack College (Hockey East). Jonathan is currently in his first season with the Kodiaks.
Jonathan has played in 27 games this season and has one goal and 12 assists as well as leading the team in plus/minus. Jonathan will be joining current teammate Clayton Jardine on the Warriors.

"Jonathan was one of the top Midget players in Saskatchewan last year" says Coach/G.M. Boris Rybalka. "He has not missed a beat in making the jump to Junior A hockey. His poise and maturity on the ice has allowed us to play him in all situations"

The Kodiaks would like to congratulate Jonathan and his family. We recognize that Jonathan's hard work and dedication have certainly paid off for him, and we wish him continued success in his future academic and athletic pursuits. We know Jonathan will become a great asset to Coach Dennehy and the Warriors.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Garteig grabs BCHL Player of the Week nod

Press Release

Powell River Kings netminder Michael Garteig has been named the British Columbia Hockey League's Player of the Week for the Week ending November 21, the league announced Monday.

Garteig backstopped his team to an undefeated week, posting a 2-0-2 record and a .958 save percentage on 118 shots he faced in the four games. The 19-year-old Prince George product allowed just five goals in that span for a sparkling goals-against average of 1.18.

Garteig is now on a personal nine-game unbeaten streak and leads BCHL goalies in wins (17), goals-against average (1.52), save percentage (.938), shutouts (4) and minutes played (1500).

Honourable mentions this week go Brendan O'Donnell and Mark MacMillan of the Penticton Vees and Tom Kroshus of the Westside Warriors.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

World Juniors pre-tournament schedule set

Press Release

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. - The U.S. National Junior Team, along with five other nations, will compete in pre-tournament games in Rochester and Jamestown, N.Y., this December prior to the 2011 International Ice Hockey Federation World Junior Championship in Buffalo, N.Y. A total of five games will be played from Dec. 21-23 involving the U.S., Czech Republic, Germany, Norway, Russia and Slovakia.

On Dec. 21, Team USA will face off against the Czech Republic at The Sports Centre at MCC in Rochester, N.Y. The following day, The Sports Centre at MCC will play host to a pre-tournament match-up between the Czech Republic and Germany. Both games will start at 7 p.m. (EST). Single-game tickets ($10) and two-game passes ($15) will be available at the door or by calling (585) 424-4625 beginning Dec. 1.

The U.S. will also face off in a pre-tournament game against Norway on Dec. 23 at 7:30 p.m. at Savings Bank Arena in Jamestown, N.Y. Additional pre-tournament games in Jamestown include Norway taking on Slovakia on Dec. 21 at 7:30 p.m. and Slovakia facing Russia on Dec. 23 at 4 p.m. For ticket package information, click here or call (716) 484-2624.

In addition, Team USA will travel to Troy, N.Y., on Dec. 19 to face the Rensselaer men's ice hockey team. Opening faceoff at Houston Field House is slated for 4 p.m. Ticket information can be found at RPIAthletics.com or by calling (518) 276-6262.

The IIHF World Junior Championship will take place Dec. 26-Jan. 5 in Buffalo, N.Y. A full tournament schedule and ticket information can be found at BuffaloWorldJuniors.com.

NOTES: Approximately 28 players will be invited to Team USA's pre-tournament training camp, to begin Dec. 16 in Albany, N.Y. The final 22-player U.S. roster for the IIHF World Junior Championship will be unveiled prior to Team USA's pre-tournament game against Norway on Dec. 23 ... Credential applications for all of the pretournament games in Jamestown and Rochester, N.Y., can be found here... Keith Allain, head men's ice hockey coach at Yale University, will serve as head coach of the 2011 U.S. National Junior Team. Allain will be assisted by Mark Osiecki, head men's ice hockey coach at The Ohio State University; Phil Housley, head boys' ice hockey coach at Stillwater (Minn.) High School; and Joe Exter, goaltending coach at USA Hockey's National Team Development Program ... Jim Johannson, assistant executive director for hockey operations at USA Hockey, is serving as the general manager of Team USA for the second consecutive year. Meanwhile, Tim Taylor, former U.S. Olympic Men's Ice Hockey Team head coach and longtime Yale University men's ice hockey team head coach, is also serving his second straight year as Team USA's director of player personnel ... From July 30 - Aug. 7, a total of 44 of the top U.S. under-20 players took part in USA Hockey's National Junior Evaluation Camp in Lake Placid, N.Y. For the full roster and camp coverage, click here.

IIHF World Junior Championship Pre-Tournament Game Schedule
Dec. 19-23 - Jamestown, Rochester & Troy, N.Y.
Date Match-up Time** City Arena (Tickets Link)
Dec. 19 USA vs. RPI 4:00 p.m. Troy, N.Y. Houston Field House
Dec. 21 USA vs. CZE 7:00 p.m. Rochester, N.Y. The Sports Centre at MCC
SVK vs. NOR 7:30 p.m. Jamestown, N.Y. Savings Bank Arena
Dec. 22 CZE vs. GER 7:00 p.m. Rochester, N.Y.

The Sports Centre at MCC
Dec. 23 SVK vs. RUS 4:00 p.m. Jamestown, N.Y. Savings Bank Arena
USA vs. NOR 7:30 p.m. Jamestown, N.Y. Savings Bank Arena

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

CJHL Announces Weekly Top 20 Rankings

Press Release

The Canadian Junior Hockey League (CJHL) announced today its Weekly Top 20 rankings in conjunction with NHL Central Scouting. Last week's rankings and the leagues in which the teams belong to are in parenthesis.

The CJHL Weekly Top 20 as of Monday, November 22, 2010:

1. (1) Spruce Grove Saints (AJHL)
2. (4) Powell River Kings (BCHL)
3. (3) Newmarket Hurricanes (OJHL)
4. (2) Pembroke Lumber Kings (CJHL)
5. (5) Woodstock Slammers (MHL)
6. (3) Markham Waxers (OJHL)
7. (11) Bonnyville Pontiacs (AJHL)
8. (15) Cornwall Colts (CJHL)
9. (12) Burlington Cougars (OJHL)
10. (9) Brockville Braves (CJHL)
11. (8) Soo Thunderbirds (NOJHL)
12. (14) Georgetown Raiders (OJHL)
13. (HM) Yorkton Terriers (SJHL)
14. (10) Wellington Dukes (OJHL)
15. (7) Humboldt Broncos (SJHL)
16. (13) Okotoks Oilers (AJHL)
17. (19) Selkirk Steelers (MJHL)
18. (16) Fort Frances Lakers (SIJHL)
19. (17) Trail Smoke Eaters (BCHL)
20. (NR) Les Cougars de Sherbrooke (LHJAAAQ)

Honorable mention goes to the Salmon Arm Silverbacks (BCHL), Fort McMurray Oil Barons (AJHL), Flin Flon Bombers (SJHL), Portage Terriers (MJHL), and the Kingston Voyageurs (OJHL).

The rankings are based upon a variety of factors which includes the league in which the teams belong to, their winning percentage, their win-loss record, total points accumulated, their goals-for versus goals-against ratio, amongst other factors.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Source for Sports AJHL Player of the Week: Nov 15th - 21st, 2010

Press Release

Canmore Eagles forward Cody Cartier is the Source for Sports AJHL Player of the Week for the week ending November 21st, 2010. Cartier scored 3 goals and 6 assists for the Eagles last week, including two 4 point games. Cartier scored the game winning goal on Sunday versus Sherwood Park and was selected as the Player of the Game for the Eagles. Cartier is second in team scoring behind Brian Doust, who recorded 8 points last week, and third overall in the League scoring Race. Cartier has recorded a point in nine of his last ten games played and is averaging 1.7 points per game.

Cartier (Sylvan Lake, AB) is in his third AJHL season with the Eagles and has committed to Robert Morris University.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

KELLAN TOCHKIN WHL PLAYER OF THE WEEK

Press Release

CALGARY, AB. – The WHL Player of the Week is forward Kellan Tochkin of the Everett Silvertips.

Tochkin picked up seven points, scoring four goals and three assists to go with a +7 rating, in three games over the past week, helping the Silvertips to a 3-0-0-0 record.

On Friday, November 19th, the Silvertips’ welcomed the Kamloops Blazers to the Comcast Arena in Everett. Tochkin scored his first career hat-trick, netting three goals, including the game winner, and was named the games 1st Star as the ‘Tips doubled up the Blazers 4-2. The next night the Silvertips were at the ShoWare Center in Kent to face the Seattle Thunderbirds. Tochkin collected two assist to help lead the ‘Tips to a 3-2 win over the ‘Tbirds. On Sunday, November 21st, the Silvertips travelled to Kennewick to face the Tri-City Americans. Tochkin scored the game winning goal and added an assist in the ‘Tips 4-2 win over the Americans.

Tochkin is currently second in Silvertips team scoring with 22 points (11 goals, 11 assist) in 23 games played and has maintained a +11 rating. The Everett Silvertips have three straight games and currently find themselves in a three-way tie for second spot in the WHL U.S. Division with 11-8-1-3 record for 26 points.

Tochkin, a 19 year old from Abbotsford, B.C., is playing his third season with the Everett Silvertips. The Silvertips made him their 1st round (13th overall) selection at the 2006 WHL Bantam Draft and signed as a free agent with the Vancouver Canucks during the summer of 2009.

The WHL has also nominated Laurent Brossoit of the Edmonton Oil Kings for the CHL Goaltender of the Week Award. Brossoit posted a 1-0-0-0 record this past week with one shut-out, stopping all 32 shots faced in a 3-0 win over the Red Deer Rebels Saturday night and was named the games 1st Star. Brossoit, a native of Surrey, B.C., is playing his first full season with Oil Kings after being select in the 2nd round – 26th overall in the 2008 WHL Bantam Draft.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Foreurs vs. Rocket remake set for Monday

Press Release

BOUCHERVILLE, Sunday, November 21, 2010 – The Quebec Major Junior Hockey League announced the following schedule changes following this weekend’s postponed games.

The game between the Foreurs and the Rocket scheduled for today at the Civic Centre in Charlottetown will be played on Monday, November 22 at 7 pm.

The remake (from October 30th) of the game between the Rocket and the Titan which was to be held in Bathurst on Tuesday will be rescheduled at a later date.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Fronts Acquire Gaulton From Erie

Press Release

The Kingston Frontenacs are pleased to announce that they have acquired overage defenceman Mitch Gaulton from the Erie Otters in exchange for a 6th round selection in the 2013 OHL Priority Selection.

Gaulton, playing in his 5th OHL season, has appeared in 14 games scoring twice and adding four assists for six points. He has also accumulated 15 minutes in penalties.

“With the addition of Gaulton, we’ve added experience and another left handed shot,” said Larry Mavety, Director of Hockey Operations and General Manager. “This will help solidify our blueline,” he added.

Gaulton, originally selected by the Otters with the 4th overall pick in the 2006 OHL Priority Selection has appeared in 160 games in his career, scoring 15 goals and tallying 66 points. He has also added 136 minutes in penalties. He was also the New York Rangers 6th round selection, 171st overall in 2008.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)