by Alistair McInnis of the Prince George Free Press
“Off the draw we get the puck to [John] Williams, who’s our leading scorer and we tell him when we write it up to shoot it and he doesn’t shoot it,” he said. “That’s an execution thing. We’ve been doing that all year... We execute for 60 [minutes] and then we seem to get a little full of ourselves and we were guilty of that tonight for sure.”
“I”m not really sure what’s bothering him right now,” Malgunas said of Forsythe. “I know he’s not in as good of shape as he should be, and he wasn’t on top of his game tonight, so I made the executive decision to go with some younger guys who have some jump.”
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Friday, November 30, 2007
Back on home ice
by Harpreet Sidhu of the Penticton Western News
“Everyone was really relieved after that Merritt game,” said Vees captain Brett Hextall. “We’ve all got to relax. We were pretty tense there. We were all on edge. To get back on track there, it felt good.”
“Over the last 10 games there has been a lot of mixing around with injuries and line-up changes. Hopefully once we get the guys back. We can go back to work,” said Vees head coach Fred Harbinson.
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“Everyone was really relieved after that Merritt game,” said Vees captain Brett Hextall. “We’ve all got to relax. We were pretty tense there. We were all on edge. To get back on track there, it felt good.”
“Over the last 10 games there has been a lot of mixing around with injuries and line-up changes. Hopefully once we get the guys back. We can go back to work,” said Vees head coach Fred Harbinson.
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Vees will don V’s jerseys
by Staff of the Penticton Western News
With the addition of Lieuwen goaltending has to be considered the strength of the Warriors, in five of the teams last six games the club has allowed just a single goal against.
The last previous home game was Nov. 17, while the next home game is the Dec. 14, so you best get your butt to the game.
On the injury front, Denver Manderson won’t be back in the line-up any time soon. Luc Challier appears to be closer, but don’t expect to see him this weekend. Devon Krogh on the other hand has been cleared to play.
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With the addition of Lieuwen goaltending has to be considered the strength of the Warriors, in five of the teams last six games the club has allowed just a single goal against.
The last previous home game was Nov. 17, while the next home game is the Dec. 14, so you best get your butt to the game.
On the injury front, Denver Manderson won’t be back in the line-up any time soon. Luc Challier appears to be closer, but don’t expect to see him this weekend. Devon Krogh on the other hand has been cleared to play.
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Chief gets nod for prospects game
by Gary Ahuja of the Langley Times
Stefishen, who leads the Chiefs in points (37) and is tied for the team lead in assists (23) and goals (14), is off to Ohio State University in the fall, after accepting an athletic scholarship to the Buckeyes program.
“It is definitely weird,” he said about attention from NHL scouts. “But I like it.”
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Stefishen, who leads the Chiefs in points (37) and is tied for the team lead in assists (23) and goals (14), is off to Ohio State University in the fall, after accepting an athletic scholarship to the Buckeyes program.
“It is definitely weird,” he said about attention from NHL scouts. “But I like it.”
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Chiefs endure grisly night at GPRC
by Troy Landreville of the Langley Advance
"We were not prepared," fumed Chiefs head coach Harvey Smyl. "We need the leadership to make sure the guys are ready to play."
Chiefs rookie Colton Beck - nephew of former NHLer Barry - scored his first BCHL goal, and point, with 1:48 remaining to round out the game's scoring.
"I didn't think we played well at all after the first period," Smyl said. "I think Victoria didn't come as hard. I'm disappointed with the way we played. I know we haven't played much [lately] and our timing could be off, but that's no excuse for lack of effort. That's not acceptable."
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"We were not prepared," fumed Chiefs head coach Harvey Smyl. "We need the leadership to make sure the guys are ready to play."
Chiefs rookie Colton Beck - nephew of former NHLer Barry - scored his first BCHL goal, and point, with 1:48 remaining to round out the game's scoring.
"I didn't think we played well at all after the first period," Smyl said. "I think Victoria didn't come as hard. I'm disappointed with the way we played. I know we haven't played much [lately] and our timing could be off, but that's no excuse for lack of effort. That's not acceptable."
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Former backstop beats ’Backs
by Richard MacKenzie of the Salmon Arm Observer
That they have been able to stay on top in the conference is a tribute to the depth and resilience of the team as they continue to find success with a line-up decimated by injuries.
“When you’re missing four out of your top six on the back-end (defence), it makes it pretty tough,” he said. “And here we are in the meat of our schedule, so it’s a good test for the guys available. We hope to have (Mike) Glaicar back this weekend and (Ryan) Forgaard is back and healthy now. (Matt) Grassi’s return is still unknown, but we’re getting there.”
He also noted the work of affiliated defencemen Mike Puddifant, from Salmon Arm who plays for the Chase Chiefs, and Sicamous’ Colton Hayes for their work, as well as forward Ronnie Smith who racked up some time on the back-end versus the Kings.
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That they have been able to stay on top in the conference is a tribute to the depth and resilience of the team as they continue to find success with a line-up decimated by injuries.
“When you’re missing four out of your top six on the back-end (defence), it makes it pretty tough,” he said. “And here we are in the meat of our schedule, so it’s a good test for the guys available. We hope to have (Mike) Glaicar back this weekend and (Ryan) Forgaard is back and healthy now. (Matt) Grassi’s return is still unknown, but we’re getting there.”
He also noted the work of affiliated defencemen Mike Puddifant, from Salmon Arm who plays for the Chase Chiefs, and Sicamous’ Colton Hayes for their work, as well as forward Ronnie Smith who racked up some time on the back-end versus the Kings.
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Warriors need all hands
by David Trifunov of the Kelowna Daily Courier
The Warriors have fought the injury bug lately, especially on defence. Blue-liners Justin Schultz, Cory Pritz and Brad Plumton have all missed time, but should play this weekend. Forward Pierre Girard (shoulder) is getting closer to returning.
But while Howell said flu and injury played a role in Tuesday‘s roster freeze, there was also team suspensions. He was tight-lipped about it all, saying only that there are “various” reasons, including a lack of commitment on the ice and in the gym.
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The Warriors have fought the injury bug lately, especially on defence. Blue-liners Justin Schultz, Cory Pritz and Brad Plumton have all missed time, but should play this weekend. Forward Pierre Girard (shoulder) is getting closer to returning.
But while Howell said flu and injury played a role in Tuesday‘s roster freeze, there was also team suspensions. He was tight-lipped about it all, saying only that there are “various” reasons, including a lack of commitment on the ice and in the gym.
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Grizzlies look for cure on the road
by Sharie Epp of the Victoria Times Colonist
"The most disappointing thing [about the two losses to Burnaby] is we would have been in a good solid position going on the road," Grizzlies coach Jackson Penney said.
"The guys are thinking too much about offence, before defence. One thing I've really noticed is we haven't been blocking shots," Penney said. "If you go for points and go where it hurts in the offensive zone, you better be able to block shots in the defensive zone."
Rookie Cody Bremner is hurt, and won't be making the road trip.
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"The most disappointing thing [about the two losses to Burnaby] is we would have been in a good solid position going on the road," Grizzlies coach Jackson Penney said.
"The guys are thinking too much about offence, before defence. One thing I've really noticed is we haven't been blocking shots," Penney said. "If you go for points and go where it hurts in the offensive zone, you better be able to block shots in the defensive zone."
Rookie Cody Bremner is hurt, and won't be making the road trip.
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Vipers makesome moves
by Kevin Mitchell of the Vernon Morning Star
“We’re going to take a peak at him today, and if we like what we see, we’ll make the deal with Merritt,” said Ferner, of the 6-foot-3, 215-pounder.
Ferner, who was disappointed with Cumming’s decision to join the Cats after the Kamloops product told him he wanted to play a few years here and earn an NCAA scholarship, released Cumming without getting any compensation.
“I talked to Patrick’s dad and he said Patrick wanted more of the quality ice time to develop quicker. We have identified him as a young player who needs to work on a few things like strength and speed. He’s going to get 25 minutes a game and he’ll be back with us in the future.”
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“We’re going to take a peak at him today, and if we like what we see, we’ll make the deal with Merritt,” said Ferner, of the 6-foot-3, 215-pounder.
Ferner, who was disappointed with Cumming’s decision to join the Cats after the Kamloops product told him he wanted to play a few years here and earn an NCAA scholarship, released Cumming without getting any compensation.
“I talked to Patrick’s dad and he said Patrick wanted more of the quality ice time to develop quicker. We have identified him as a young player who needs to work on a few things like strength and speed. He’s going to get 25 minutes a game and he’ll be back with us in the future.”
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Vipers search for true identity
by Kevin Mitchell of the Vernon Morning Star
The Vipers, with 14 freshmen on their roster, have surprised fans with a pretty decent opening 30 games.
Head coach/GM Mark Ferner held a lengthy closed-door meeting after the Warriors simply outworked the Vipers before 1,900 fans. He wants his team to find a clear identity through consistent performance.
Ferner no longer considers his club rookie-laden.
“We like our hockey team and we shouldn’t be using the rookie thing. The nerves should be gone and they should be comfortable as teammates and where they stand as players. People have to understand that most of these kids are coming out of minor hockey and they aren’t used to the expectations or pressures at this level.
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The Vipers, with 14 freshmen on their roster, have surprised fans with a pretty decent opening 30 games.
Head coach/GM Mark Ferner held a lengthy closed-door meeting after the Warriors simply outworked the Vipers before 1,900 fans. He wants his team to find a clear identity through consistent performance.
Ferner no longer considers his club rookie-laden.
“We like our hockey team and we shouldn’t be using the rookie thing. The nerves should be gone and they should be comfortable as teammates and where they stand as players. People have to understand that most of these kids are coming out of minor hockey and they aren’t used to the expectations or pressures at this level.
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Shorthanded Warriors too much for Trail
by Guy Bertrand of the Trail Daily Times
A combination Of suspensions, injuries and internal discipline saw Westside only dress 12 skaters against Trail's 18 but the Warriors only really needed two players on this night.
"That's as gutsy a win as I've seen in a long time," said Howell. "I was telling the guys in the room, 'You're always going to have a game, at some point in your career, that you'll talk about. You guys are going to remember this game forever,'
"We got beat by 12 guys," said Ingram. ''It doesn't matter if we had a team of 40. We didn't have enough guys willing to pay the price. That's really disappointing after the wins we've had."
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A combination Of suspensions, injuries and internal discipline saw Westside only dress 12 skaters against Trail's 18 but the Warriors only really needed two players on this night.
"That's as gutsy a win as I've seen in a long time," said Howell. "I was telling the guys in the room, 'You're always going to have a game, at some point in your career, that you'll talk about. You guys are going to remember this game forever,'
"We got beat by 12 guys," said Ingram. ''It doesn't matter if we had a team of 40. We didn't have enough guys willing to pay the price. That's really disappointing after the wins we've had."
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Eagles clip first-place Nanaimo
by Nick Greenizan of the Peace Arch News
The team currently has five players averaging at least one point-per-game. Another, winger Adam Hartley, has 22 points in 29 games.
Defensively, the Eagles have been buoyed the last two weekends by new goaltender Justin Mulholland, who is 2-1 in four appearances, and has allowed just five goals.
“If they both keep playing that strong, we can kind of go with who’s going, and give the other guy a rest. It’ll be good down the road because we don’t want to tire our guys out. We want two goalies we can count on.”
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The team currently has five players averaging at least one point-per-game. Another, winger Adam Hartley, has 22 points in 29 games.
Defensively, the Eagles have been buoyed the last two weekends by new goaltender Justin Mulholland, who is 2-1 in four appearances, and has allowed just five goals.
“If they both keep playing that strong, we can kind of go with who’s going, and give the other guy a rest. It’ll be good down the road because we don’t want to tire our guys out. We want two goalies we can count on.”
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McCann's hope -- lesson learned
by Jim Swanson of the Prince George Citizen
One, it keeps McCann from being able to tell his side of the story in front of a judge. And two, the prosecutor can’t raise the question of whether Hill’s actions were his idea alone.
“You can’t tell on the video that (one of the coaches sent Hill), but he came from the bench and he took his time. I’m almost positive he didn’t go on his own. If he’d have reacted on his own, it would’ve been more of a thing where he jumped over the boards right away.”
“Simon, McSorley, they happened in the middle of the play and it was heat of the moment. You can get angry on the ice. But this, they had more than two minutes to think about what they were going to do. That’s the thing that frustrates me the most, that it wasn’t just heat-of-the-moment and they knew what they wanted to do to me.”
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One, it keeps McCann from being able to tell his side of the story in front of a judge. And two, the prosecutor can’t raise the question of whether Hill’s actions were his idea alone.
“You can’t tell on the video that (one of the coaches sent Hill), but he came from the bench and he took his time. I’m almost positive he didn’t go on his own. If he’d have reacted on his own, it would’ve been more of a thing where he jumped over the boards right away.”
“Simon, McSorley, they happened in the middle of the play and it was heat of the moment. You can get angry on the ice. But this, they had more than two minutes to think about what they were going to do. That’s the thing that frustrates me the most, that it wasn’t just heat-of-the-moment and they knew what they wanted to do to me.”
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Finally, Spruce Kings find a way to beat Millionaires
by Jason Peters of the Prince George Citizen
A second player, defenceman Brandon Busse, made his home debut for the Kings on Tuesday. Busse, a mass of humanity at six-foot-two and 205 pounds, assisted on Potter’s winning goal.
The Kings played the third period without the services of offensive-minded defenceman Jeff Forsythe. The all-star blueliner wasn’t injured, he was benched.
“I’m not happy with his intensity,” Malgunas added. “I think he’s got a lot more to give and he would tell you the exact same thing.”
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A second player, defenceman Brandon Busse, made his home debut for the Kings on Tuesday. Busse, a mass of humanity at six-foot-two and 205 pounds, assisted on Potter’s winning goal.
The Kings played the third period without the services of offensive-minded defenceman Jeff Forsythe. The all-star blueliner wasn’t injured, he was benched.
“I’m not happy with his intensity,” Malgunas added. “I think he’s got a lot more to give and he would tell you the exact same thing.”
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Halfway there
by Harpreet Sidhu of the Penticton Western News
But of the Vees’ eight losses this season four have come in the last 10 games including dropping a game to Prince George and Quesnel.
“Everyone has hovered around 500. Our penalty kill is No. 1 I the league and our power play has suffered a bit since we lost Denver Manderson to an injury. We’re going to make some changes on the power play that will get it going again.”
Defensively the team has shined with the lowest goals against average allowing just 2.40 goals per game but offensively Harbinson would like to see the number move higher than the 3.90 goals they seem to get most nights.
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But of the Vees’ eight losses this season four have come in the last 10 games including dropping a game to Prince George and Quesnel.
“Everyone has hovered around 500. Our penalty kill is No. 1 I the league and our power play has suffered a bit since we lost Denver Manderson to an injury. We’re going to make some changes on the power play that will get it going again.”
Defensively the team has shined with the lowest goals against average allowing just 2.40 goals per game but offensively Harbinson would like to see the number move higher than the 3.90 goals they seem to get most nights.
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Freshman leads Clips over Kings
by Michael Rhode of the Nanaimo Daily News
With sniper Brad McConnell shelved with the flu, McGhee filled in nicely, scoring once and adding an assist as the Clippers defeated the Powell River Kings 4-1 in BCHL action at the Powell River Recreation Complex.
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With sniper Brad McConnell shelved with the flu, McGhee filled in nicely, scoring once and adding an assist as the Clippers defeated the Powell River Kings 4-1 in BCHL action at the Powell River Recreation Complex.
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Elias buries breakaway as Chiefs down Eagles
by Gary Ahuja of the Langley Times
Alex Angers-Goulet then iced the victory with an empty-netter as the Chiefs won 3-1, the fourth time in a row Langley has defeated Surrey this season.
In the season’s first 15 games, the team allowed a whopping 79 goals against, more than five goals per game. In the dozen games since then, the team has cut that number down to 35, which is less than three per game.
Defenceman Dillon Scholten, a product of the Aldergrove Minor Hockey system, suited up for Langley against the Eagles.
Scholten joins the team after spending 11 games with the Western Hockey League’s Vancouver Giants.
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Alex Angers-Goulet then iced the victory with an empty-netter as the Chiefs won 3-1, the fourth time in a row Langley has defeated Surrey this season.
In the season’s first 15 games, the team allowed a whopping 79 goals against, more than five goals per game. In the dozen games since then, the team has cut that number down to 35, which is less than three per game.
Defenceman Dillon Scholten, a product of the Aldergrove Minor Hockey system, suited up for Langley against the Eagles.
Scholten joins the team after spending 11 games with the Western Hockey League’s Vancouver Giants.
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Chiefs winger happy with married life
by Troy Landreville and Jhim Burwell of the Langley Advance
While they've known each other since they were both 10, the two actually started dating about three years ago. After seeing each other for a year and eight months, they were engaged at 19 and married by 20.
"He was so into video games and hockey he didn't even talk to me," she laughed.
"I love it," Dana said, of Coleton's ability to trade punches. "When we first started dating it was a little scary. But he's so tough and I think that's part of what attracted me to him in the first place. Telling him not to fight would be very bad. I love his fights."
"We [the team] go out and have fun," Coleton said. "She comes out with the team - it's like any guy and [his] girlfriend that way. I get beaked at all the time about being married, but it's all fun. I'm in the position I want to be in. It's not like I'm the old man of the team - I still like to have my fun with the guys."
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While they've known each other since they were both 10, the two actually started dating about three years ago. After seeing each other for a year and eight months, they were engaged at 19 and married by 20.
"He was so into video games and hockey he didn't even talk to me," she laughed.
"I love it," Dana said, of Coleton's ability to trade punches. "When we first started dating it was a little scary. But he's so tough and I think that's part of what attracted me to him in the first place. Telling him not to fight would be very bad. I love his fights."
"We [the team] go out and have fun," Coleton said. "She comes out with the team - it's like any guy and [his] girlfriend that way. I get beaked at all the time about being married, but it's all fun. I'm in the position I want to be in. It's not like I'm the old man of the team - I still like to have my fun with the guys."
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Undermanned Chiefs earn weekend split
by Troy Landreville of the Langley Advance
Top four defenceman Jessie Tresierra and veteran forward Coleton Thielmann were each slapped with five game suspensions. Productive veteran Neeco Belanger, another team leader, was hit with a one-game penalty and also had to miss Thursday's game.
To make matters worse, team captain and all-star defenceman Nolan Julseth-White continues to deal with a troublesome back injury and was unable to play against the Kings.
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Top four defenceman Jessie Tresierra and veteran forward Coleton Thielmann were each slapped with five game suspensions. Productive veteran Neeco Belanger, another team leader, was hit with a one-game penalty and also had to miss Thursday's game.
To make matters worse, team captain and all-star defenceman Nolan Julseth-White continues to deal with a troublesome back injury and was unable to play against the Kings.
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Express take two from Grizz
by Tom Berridge of Burnaby Now
"On defence, that is one thing that seems to have come together. We've simplified what we do our zone," said Express head coach Dave McLellan. "Now we have confidence in our system. It's proven to our players at some level that it works."
On Saturday, Burnaby opened a 3-0 lead in the opening period on goals by first star Carlo Finucci, Milorad Kos and newly signed rookie import Justin Faryna from Calgary.
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"On defence, that is one thing that seems to have come together. We've simplified what we do our zone," said Express head coach Dave McLellan. "Now we have confidence in our system. It's proven to our players at some level that it works."
On Saturday, Burnaby opened a 3-0 lead in the opening period on goals by first star Carlo Finucci, Milorad Kos and newly signed rookie import Justin Faryna from Calgary.
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From the coach
by Scott Robinson of the Cowichan Valley Capitals
Having won our last four road games we must say that we are happy to be heading north to PG, Quesnel and Salmon Arm this week which will no doubt be a tough test.
We are also happy to welcome Willie Coetzee into the fold. Willie was with the Red Deer Rebels until now and will add to the energy and speed to our line-up.
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Having won our last four road games we must say that we are happy to be heading north to PG, Quesnel and Salmon Arm this week which will no doubt be a tough test.
We are also happy to welcome Willie Coetzee into the fold. Willie was with the Red Deer Rebels until now and will add to the energy and speed to our line-up.
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Smiley blanks the Bulldogs for second straight shutout
by Don Bodger of the Cowichan News Leader and Pictorial
“It’s the first time I’ve ever done it,’’ said Smiley.
“The whole first period of the last game I started thinking it’s going to suck getting scored on,’’ he said.
“The mascots were trying to get on my nerves,’’ laughed Smiley.
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“It’s the first time I’ve ever done it,’’ said Smiley.
“The whole first period of the last game I started thinking it’s going to suck getting scored on,’’ he said.
“The mascots were trying to get on my nerves,’’ laughed Smiley.
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Smiley stands tall to blank Bulldogs
by Kevin Rothbauer of The Cowichan Valley Citizen
"I've now been part of this league for seven or eight years," said Caps coach Scott Robinson, "and I can't recall a goalie getting back-to-back shutouts.
Anderson was making his season debut after sitting out the first 26 games with an injury.
Even though he hasn't allowed a goal in the last 147:21 that he has played, that won't change the Caps' goaltending situation, as the rookie will continue to serve as backup to veteran Marco Raimondo.
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"I've now been part of this league for seven or eight years," said Caps coach Scott Robinson, "and I can't recall a goalie getting back-to-back shutouts.
Anderson was making his season debut after sitting out the first 26 games with an injury.
Even though he hasn't allowed a goal in the last 147:21 that he has played, that won't change the Caps' goaltending situation, as the rookie will continue to serve as backup to veteran Marco Raimondo.
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Another BCHL pluck
by Steve Ewen of The Province
"We've wanted Garry for the last few seasons," general manager Scott Bonner said of the Victoria native, who was passed over in the bantam draft but added to Vancouver's protected list. "We feel he's a real quick, extremely fast player who's excelled at the Junior A level. He will be one of the quickest guys we've had since Adam Courchaine and Darren Lynch."
Edmonton player-agent Gerry Johannson had been acting as advisor to Nunn. He has lengthy ties to the Giants. His clients include past and current Vancouver players like Mark Fistric, Paul Albers, Milan Lucic, Spencer Machacek and Michal Repik.
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"We've wanted Garry for the last few seasons," general manager Scott Bonner said of the Victoria native, who was passed over in the bantam draft but added to Vancouver's protected list. "We feel he's a real quick, extremely fast player who's excelled at the Junior A level. He will be one of the quickest guys we've had since Adam Courchaine and Darren Lynch."
Edmonton player-agent Gerry Johannson had been acting as advisor to Nunn. He has lengthy ties to the Giants. His clients include past and current Vancouver players like Mark Fistric, Paul Albers, Milan Lucic, Spencer Machacek and Michal Repik.
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Coach taps his previous life connections
by Steve Ewen of The Province
"I don't have to worry about that just yet,"chuckled the Surrey Eagles coach, who has eight skaters who played for him with the Delta Ice Hawks.
Surrey was 16-39-2-3 two years ago. They finished 17-39-1-3 last season.
Kuss is neatly rebuilding on the fly, sitting at 16-12-0-2 so far, and says that part of the reason is that he has so many players who know the systems and schemes he's trying to employ.
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"I don't have to worry about that just yet,"chuckled the Surrey Eagles coach, who has eight skaters who played for him with the Delta Ice Hawks.
Surrey was 16-39-2-3 two years ago. They finished 17-39-1-3 last season.
Kuss is neatly rebuilding on the fly, sitting at 16-12-0-2 so far, and says that part of the reason is that he has so many players who know the systems and schemes he's trying to employ.
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Monday, November 26, 2007
Westside Warriors pick up two new players, release two
by Kevin Parnell of the Kelowna Capital News
In Juola, the Warriors get a player they had recruited in the summer. Juala opted to begin the season in the USHL but left the defense-oriented league to come to Westside and the BCHL, feeling it was a better fit offensively.
Lieuwen stands 6-foot-5 and is a member of the Under-17 Team Pacific hockey team. He was injured early in the season and the WHL’s Ice kept two other goalies.
“By all accounts he is the best 16-year-old goalie in Western Canada,” said Howell.
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In Juola, the Warriors get a player they had recruited in the summer. Juala opted to begin the season in the USHL but left the defense-oriented league to come to Westside and the BCHL, feeling it was a better fit offensively.
Lieuwen stands 6-foot-5 and is a member of the Under-17 Team Pacific hockey team. He was injured early in the season and the WHL’s Ice kept two other goalies.
“By all accounts he is the best 16-year-old goalie in Western Canada,” said Howell.
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Schultz pegged to be early pick in NHL Entry Draft
by Kevin Parnell of the Kelowna Capital News
“I came into the dressing room and everyone was talking about it,” he said. “It’s kind of surprising. I’ve dreamed about this but I’ve never really thought about it becoming a reality. It’s a little overwhelming. I try to put it in the back of my mind and worry about what’s happening on the ice.”
Last season Schultz led his Westside Midget AAA team in scoring. This year he has 16 points in the Warriors first 26 games and the Warriors coaches continue to talk about the improvement nearly every game out.
He has decided to continue to play junior A with the Warriors despite being courted by the Kootenay Ice, who have him on its WHL protected list.
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“I came into the dressing room and everyone was talking about it,” he said. “It’s kind of surprising. I’ve dreamed about this but I’ve never really thought about it becoming a reality. It’s a little overwhelming. I try to put it in the back of my mind and worry about what’s happening on the ice.”
Last season Schultz led his Westside Midget AAA team in scoring. This year he has 16 points in the Warriors first 26 games and the Warriors coaches continue to talk about the improvement nearly every game out.
He has decided to continue to play junior A with the Warriors despite being courted by the Kootenay Ice, who have him on its WHL protected list.
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Burnaby Express rolls over Grizz
by Sharie Epp of the Victoria Times Colonist
They just seem to come out all fired up against us," Victoria defenceman Devon Lang said about losses of 5-4 and 8-2 in previous games. Last night they jumped out to a 3-0 lead.
"They've got a very talented player in [playmaker Finucci]. He finds open ice, and he's really hard to cover," Lang said.
Overall, Victoria outshot Burnaby 42-27, and went 1-for-9 on the power play.
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They just seem to come out all fired up against us," Victoria defenceman Devon Lang said about losses of 5-4 and 8-2 in previous games. Last night they jumped out to a 3-0 lead.
"They've got a very talented player in [playmaker Finucci]. He finds open ice, and he's really hard to cover," Lang said.
Overall, Victoria outshot Burnaby 42-27, and went 1-for-9 on the power play.
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Morrison, Millionaires own the Spruce Kings this season
by Ted Clarke of the Prince George Citizen
The win was the third in three meetings for the Mills in head-to-head encounters with the Kings and left the teams tied for sixth place in the Interior Conference standings.
“We had some unbelievable chances on the power play and then they came down on a 2-on-1 and passed it across and (Lavoie) swiped it out of the air into the net and we couldn’t rebound from that,” said Kings associate coach Stew Malgunas.
“We’re a different hockey team against Quesnel -- we obviously battled Salmon Arm and battled Penticton, but then we think we can sleep against some of the weaker teams. Quesnel is always up and ready to play us, and they definitely have our number.”
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The win was the third in three meetings for the Mills in head-to-head encounters with the Kings and left the teams tied for sixth place in the Interior Conference standings.
“We had some unbelievable chances on the power play and then they came down on a 2-on-1 and passed it across and (Lavoie) swiped it out of the air into the net and we couldn’t rebound from that,” said Kings associate coach Stew Malgunas.
“We’re a different hockey team against Quesnel -- we obviously battled Salmon Arm and battled Penticton, but then we think we can sleep against some of the weaker teams. Quesnel is always up and ready to play us, and they definitely have our number.”
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Second chances
by Harpreet Sidhu of the Penticton Western News
“I couldn’t have asked for better coaching. I was the last cut last year and went down hoping to develop and I was in the same position. It worked out great: a change of scenery and different coaching. I was playing in very situation this year and I developed a lot this year. I think Blake Wesley kind of shortened up the time of development from a year to a couple of months and it worked out nicely,” said Lebreche.
“It was different because it didn’t feel like it was my seventh game with the team, it felt like it was my third because it’s different when you play as an affiliate player and you don’t have as much confidence and you are trying not to screw up more then anything,” said Lebreche. “It was perfect because it was a parents weekend my mom was at the game and when I scored and looked up in the stands and she was smiling at me. It was perfect.”
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“I couldn’t have asked for better coaching. I was the last cut last year and went down hoping to develop and I was in the same position. It worked out great: a change of scenery and different coaching. I was playing in very situation this year and I developed a lot this year. I think Blake Wesley kind of shortened up the time of development from a year to a couple of months and it worked out nicely,” said Lebreche.
“It was different because it didn’t feel like it was my seventh game with the team, it felt like it was my third because it’s different when you play as an affiliate player and you don’t have as much confidence and you are trying not to screw up more then anything,” said Lebreche. “It was perfect because it was a parents weekend my mom was at the game and when I scored and looked up in the stands and she was smiling at me. It was perfect.”
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Coach Bestwick finds positives in Clippers' 6-2 loss in Surrey
by Michael Rhode of The Nanaimo Daily News
"To be quite honest, we played a great game," said Bestwick, whose team is now 2-1 against the Eagles this season. "We outshot them 39-19, we had a power play early in the game that we didn't capitalize on. That may have set the tone if we could have scored.
"We liked our puck movement, we liked out defence," said Bestwick. "If they had seven scoring chances, they scored on six of them. We played a really good game. I'm not disappointed at all."
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"To be quite honest, we played a great game," said Bestwick, whose team is now 2-1 against the Eagles this season. "We outshot them 39-19, we had a power play early in the game that we didn't capitalize on. That may have set the tone if we could have scored.
"We liked our puck movement, we liked out defence," said Bestwick. "If they had seven scoring chances, they scored on six of them. We played a really good game. I'm not disappointed at all."
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Saturday, November 24, 2007
Centennials break jinx vs. Warriors
by Staff of the Kelowna Daily Courier
Caple was pulled midway through the game in favour of Lieuwen, who was sent to the Warriors by the Western Hockey League‘s Kootenay Ice on Thursday.
It was somewhat of a makeshift lineup for the Warriors. Regular defencemen Cory Pritz, Justin Schultz and Brad Plumton are all injured, so forward Brady Mason dropped to the blue-line. They also called up Tyler Parfeniuk from the Okanagan Rockets. David Briere was traded to the Quesnel Millionaires for future considerations when Lieuwen became available.
Michael Juola was picked up from the Sioux Falls Stampede after he saw limited action with the U.S. Hockey League team. Forward Kevin Knopp was released to make room on the roster.
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Caple was pulled midway through the game in favour of Lieuwen, who was sent to the Warriors by the Western Hockey League‘s Kootenay Ice on Thursday.
It was somewhat of a makeshift lineup for the Warriors. Regular defencemen Cory Pritz, Justin Schultz and Brad Plumton are all injured, so forward Brady Mason dropped to the blue-line. They also called up Tyler Parfeniuk from the Okanagan Rockets. David Briere was traded to the Quesnel Millionaires for future considerations when Lieuwen became available.
Michael Juola was picked up from the Sioux Falls Stampede after he saw limited action with the U.S. Hockey League team. Forward Kevin Knopp was released to make room on the roster.
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Vipers pick up ground
by Nicole Berg of the Vernon Morning Star
“While our home record hasn't been so great this season at 6-7, our road record has been outstanding at 11-3-2. Assistant coach Jason Williamson also told us that while there is more pressure to play better at home, compared to as on the road, we need to concentrate on not worrying about anything else but just playing simple hockey.”
“I just kept playing a simple game tonight. Try not to do anything too fancy but stay reliable on the back end and keep the puck out of our zone,” said the 20 year old Kakoske. “We got into some penalty trouble by the second after outshooting them 13-2 after the first and let them creep back into the game with more shots while we were on the penalty kill. Our plan every night is to try and limit their chances on the powerplay and to score more powerplay goals than them."
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“While our home record hasn't been so great this season at 6-7, our road record has been outstanding at 11-3-2. Assistant coach Jason Williamson also told us that while there is more pressure to play better at home, compared to as on the road, we need to concentrate on not worrying about anything else but just playing simple hockey.”
“I just kept playing a simple game tonight. Try not to do anything too fancy but stay reliable on the back end and keep the puck out of our zone,” said the 20 year old Kakoske. “We got into some penalty trouble by the second after outshooting them 13-2 after the first and let them creep back into the game with more shots while we were on the penalty kill. Our plan every night is to try and limit their chances on the powerplay and to score more powerplay goals than them."
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Clippers hammer struggling Alberni
by Scott Brown of the Nanaimo Daily News
Along with his three goals, Gale also had two assists while linemate Russell Goodman scored a goal and four assists and rookie Eric Filiou, the third member of the Clippers' top line, added a goal and three helpers.
Nanaimo, which improved its BCHL-best record to 21-3-0-3, were without several regulars, including Carson Schell, Randy McNaught, Joe Perry and Braden Birch.
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Along with his three goals, Gale also had two assists while linemate Russell Goodman scored a goal and four assists and rookie Eric Filiou, the third member of the Clippers' top line, added a goal and three helpers.
Nanaimo, which improved its BCHL-best record to 21-3-0-3, were without several regulars, including Carson Schell, Randy McNaught, Joe Perry and Braden Birch.
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Dinosaur tactics never worked
by Scott Brown of The Nanaimo Daily News
Kerr's coach was a man named Jack Sangster and the Breakers were nicknamed 'Sangster's gangsters' due to their rough-and-tumble (aka violent) play.
Sangster was gone the next season after the club missed the playoffs with a 24-47-1 record. After Seattle, he had two woeful seasons (17-54-1 and 24-46-2) with the Brandon Wheat Kings and never coached in the WHL again.
Parents don't put their teenaged boys in another man's charge so they can be embarrassed publicly.
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Kerr's coach was a man named Jack Sangster and the Breakers were nicknamed 'Sangster's gangsters' due to their rough-and-tumble (aka violent) play.
Sangster was gone the next season after the club missed the playoffs with a 24-47-1 record. After Seattle, he had two woeful seasons (17-54-1 and 24-46-2) with the Brandon Wheat Kings and never coached in the WHL again.
Parents don't put their teenaged boys in another man's charge so they can be embarrassed publicly.
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Caps can’t keep up, Clips win again
by Greg Sakaki of the Nanaimo News Bulletin
Favreau said the Clippers were able to win by playing patient hockey, even when it was getting down to crunch time.
“We’ve been a really good team at coming back from behind all year…” he said. “So we all just stayed pretty calm and we all knew we had the firepower to come back.”
Clippers forwards Randy McNaught and Bryden McGhee were both injured in the third period, and both will miss action
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Favreau said the Clippers were able to win by playing patient hockey, even when it was getting down to crunch time.
“We’ve been a really good team at coming back from behind all year…” he said. “So we all just stayed pretty calm and we all knew we had the firepower to come back.”
Clippers forwards Randy McNaught and Bryden McGhee were both injured in the third period, and both will miss action
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Clippers rule the road
by Don Bodger of the Cowichan News Leader and Pictorial
The Caps have now gone seven straight B.C. Hockey League home games dating back to last season’s playoffs without a point against the Clippers after dropping a 5-3 decision Wednesday night.
“Normally in this league, if you hold anybody to 23 shots on goal, you’re going to win,’’ said Caps’ head coach Scott Robinson.
The Caps are actually better on the road with a 7-6 record compared to 6-7 at home so far.
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The Caps have now gone seven straight B.C. Hockey League home games dating back to last season’s playoffs without a point against the Clippers after dropping a 5-3 decision Wednesday night.
“Normally in this league, if you hold anybody to 23 shots on goal, you’re going to win,’’ said Caps’ head coach Scott Robinson.
The Caps are actually better on the road with a 7-6 record compared to 6-7 at home so far.
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Bulldogs hoping to gain with Payne
by Staff of the Alberni Valley Times
The Bulldogs continue to struggle and have lost their last seven games.
"The coaching staff has been addressed by the ownership group and the coaching staff has addressed the players after the situation and we are moving forward in a positive manner. Our ownership group is committed to the fans of Alberni Valley and to the franchise being one of the top franchises in the BCHL in coming years. As we grow and move forward we want to ensure that the players, staff and fans are all treated with respect and integrity.
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The Bulldogs continue to struggle and have lost their last seven games.
"The coaching staff has been addressed by the ownership group and the coaching staff has addressed the players after the situation and we are moving forward in a positive manner. Our ownership group is committed to the fans of Alberni Valley and to the franchise being one of the top franchises in the BCHL in coming years. As we grow and move forward we want to ensure that the players, staff and fans are all treated with respect and integrity.
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Friday, November 23, 2007
Grizzlies' rookie brothers hitting their strides
by Sharie Epp of the Victoria Times Colonist
"We were after them hard, but then we kind of thought we were losing the battle," Victoria coach Jackson Penney said, adding the Reids were leaning toward the Burnaby Express. When then Express coach Rick Lanz came to Victoria to coach the Grizzlies, he brought the Reid brothers with him. Lanz moved on to take a scouting position with the Colorado Avalanche, but Brad and Cam are happy to call Bear Mountain Arena home.
"I've tried to get them their own identity, instead of always relying on each other," Penney said. "They both possess tremendous skill level, basically in just seeing the game."
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"We were after them hard, but then we kind of thought we were losing the battle," Victoria coach Jackson Penney said, adding the Reids were leaning toward the Burnaby Express. When then Express coach Rick Lanz came to Victoria to coach the Grizzlies, he brought the Reid brothers with him. Lanz moved on to take a scouting position with the Colorado Avalanche, but Brad and Cam are happy to call Bear Mountain Arena home.
"I've tried to get them their own identity, instead of always relying on each other," Penney said. "They both possess tremendous skill level, basically in just seeing the game."
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On the road
by Harpreet Sidhu of the Penticton Western News
For Harbinson the loss was hard to take because of the effort the team displayed.
“The parity in this league is really high. There are a lot of teams in this league. Salmon Arm loses to Trail and PG beat us and Quesnel beat Trail and we held them to 10 shots,” he said.
“Going into Trail is never easy. And we’ll get back late and then we travel to Merritt,” said Vees captain Brett Hextall. “That’s a lot of travel in a small amount of time and we just have to be prepared.”
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For Harbinson the loss was hard to take because of the effort the team displayed.
“The parity in this league is really high. There are a lot of teams in this league. Salmon Arm loses to Trail and PG beat us and Quesnel beat Trail and we held them to 10 shots,” he said.
“Going into Trail is never easy. And we’ll get back late and then we travel to Merritt,” said Vees captain Brett Hextall. “That’s a lot of travel in a small amount of time and we just have to be prepared.”
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Vees regrouping after weekend
by Staff of the Penticton Western News
After a day off Sunday, the coaching staff made no bones about their feelings on Saturday’s 4-1 loss, as Monday’s hour-and-a-half practice didn’t require pucks –– just starts and stops.
Denver Manderson’s upper body injury will see some extra examination this week, his return date is a mystery.
Luke Challier appears to be closer to returning and may be back in the line-up before the advent calendars start bearing chocolate.
Devon Krogh could be back in the line-up this weekend after a missing most of last weekend and some practice time this week with a lingering injury.
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After a day off Sunday, the coaching staff made no bones about their feelings on Saturday’s 4-1 loss, as Monday’s hour-and-a-half practice didn’t require pucks –– just starts and stops.
Denver Manderson’s upper body injury will see some extra examination this week, his return date is a mystery.
Luke Challier appears to be closer to returning and may be back in the line-up before the advent calendars start bearing chocolate.
Devon Krogh could be back in the line-up this weekend after a missing most of last weekend and some practice time this week with a lingering injury.
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Nanaimo Clippers blueliner gets downright offensive
by Scott Brown of the Nanaimo Daily News
All this offence from a guy who scored just four goals and nine assists in 54 games last season begs an answer to the aforementioned question.
"I'm rushing the puck more lately and getting back to my old game," said Favreau, referring to his midget hockey days with the Tisdale Trojans. "This season I'm getting a lot more opportunity and we are so strong on the back end that it allows us to try more things (offensively)."
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All this offence from a guy who scored just four goals and nine assists in 54 games last season begs an answer to the aforementioned question.
"I'm rushing the puck more lately and getting back to my old game," said Favreau, referring to his midget hockey days with the Tisdale Trojans. "This season I'm getting a lot more opportunity and we are so strong on the back end that it allows us to try more things (offensively)."
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Kerr explains why he kept Bulldogs on the bench
by Staff of the Alberni Valley Times
The Bulldogs have reacted to adversity in a positive manner this season in short spurts. The two game winning streak against Salmon Arm and Nanaimo was right after the captain and assistant changes.
In the Salmon Arm game, two players were told to undress due to taking undisciplined penalties after the second period. We had talked about doing this for weeks and had support from the team in doing so.
We were down two goals going into the third and came back to win. Penalties at the time were costing us the ability to win games and has been better for the most part since.
The other reason for making the decision to have the players on the bench was to deflect some of the pressure off of the players. We have a young group that at times play tight and not relaxed due to feeling pressure especially at home as the expectations are higher. As a coach I am more than willing to carry as much as possible in an attempt to improve our play.
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The Bulldogs have reacted to adversity in a positive manner this season in short spurts. The two game winning streak against Salmon Arm and Nanaimo was right after the captain and assistant changes.
In the Salmon Arm game, two players were told to undress due to taking undisciplined penalties after the second period. We had talked about doing this for weeks and had support from the team in doing so.
We were down two goals going into the third and came back to win. Penalties at the time were costing us the ability to win games and has been better for the most part since.
The other reason for making the decision to have the players on the bench was to deflect some of the pressure off of the players. We have a young group that at times play tight and not relaxed due to feeling pressure especially at home as the expectations are higher. As a coach I am more than willing to carry as much as possible in an attempt to improve our play.
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Merritt loses star, Interior still strong
by Kevin Parnell of Hockey Now
BCHL commissioner John Grisdale said he wasn’t concerned about either Pierro-Zabotel or Pighin deciding to leave the league.
“We’re a player-centred league so the decision of the player and the family of where they decide to go is up to them,” he said. “The scholarship or academic route is not for everyone.”
“The league would love to have the Davidson’s back involved in some capacity,” said Grisdale.
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BCHL commissioner John Grisdale said he wasn’t concerned about either Pierro-Zabotel or Pighin deciding to leave the league.
“We’re a player-centred league so the decision of the player and the family of where they decide to go is up to them,” he said. “The scholarship or academic route is not for everyone.”
“The league would love to have the Davidson’s back involved in some capacity,” said Grisdale.
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Coastal dog fight in middle of pack
by Mark Janzen of Hockey Now
Cowichan Valley, Victoria, Powell River and Burnaby have struggled to sustain momentum all season and now find themselves losing ground on the suddenly surging Surrey Eagles and Langley Cheifs.
The only thing consistent among these teams is Victoria Grizzlies forward Gary Nunn. He had put together a 17-game point-scoring streak.
The 20-year-old Jory has posted a 6-1 record with a 3.00 GAA and a .902 save percentage. In comparison, the two previous goalies this year had a combined record of 8-10-0, a 4.98 GAA and a .864 save percentage.
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Cowichan Valley, Victoria, Powell River and Burnaby have struggled to sustain momentum all season and now find themselves losing ground on the suddenly surging Surrey Eagles and Langley Cheifs.
The only thing consistent among these teams is Victoria Grizzlies forward Gary Nunn. He had put together a 17-game point-scoring streak.
The 20-year-old Jory has posted a 6-1 record with a 3.00 GAA and a .902 save percentage. In comparison, the two previous goalies this year had a combined record of 8-10-0, a 4.98 GAA and a .864 save percentage.
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Thursday, November 22, 2007
Kings back on track after clipping
by Glen Gibbs of The Powell River Peak
True, Kings have the best penalty killing team in the league, but if it's because they are also one of the most penalized, then that issue needed to be addressed.
Clay Harvey will return to the lineup for the road trip. Chad Niddery is on a day-to-day basis. Joe Tolles has returned to Moncton to play with the Wildcats and Jason Cohen went to his home in Alaska. Nanaimo native Clayton Smith (six-feet, one-inch, 210-pound defenceman) was picked up by the Kings from Trail to fill in. Affiliate players from the Interior will possibly join the lineup on this trip.
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True, Kings have the best penalty killing team in the league, but if it's because they are also one of the most penalized, then that issue needed to be addressed.
Clay Harvey will return to the lineup for the road trip. Chad Niddery is on a day-to-day basis. Joe Tolles has returned to Moncton to play with the Wildcats and Jason Cohen went to his home in Alaska. Nanaimo native Clayton Smith (six-feet, one-inch, 210-pound defenceman) was picked up by the Kings from Trail to fill in. Affiliate players from the Interior will possibly join the lineup on this trip.
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Express split conference clashes
by Grant Granger of the Burnaby NewsLeader
Powell River’s Trevor Wilson scored 2:43 into the third period and the Express were never able to recover. Receiving a seven-minute power play blew McLellan’s mind.
“I’ve never seen a call like that ever made,” said McLellan on Tuesday. “That was the determining factor (in the game’s outcome).”
McLellan was irked the linesman and not the referee made the call and in doing so missed the Powell River player taking a swing at Bay first.
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Powell River’s Trevor Wilson scored 2:43 into the third period and the Express were never able to recover. Receiving a seven-minute power play blew McLellan’s mind.
“I’ve never seen a call like that ever made,” said McLellan on Tuesday. “That was the determining factor (in the game’s outcome).”
McLellan was irked the linesman and not the referee made the call and in doing so missed the Powell River player taking a swing at Bay first.
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Caple shows what he’s capable of between pipes for Warriors
by Kevin Parnell of the Kelowna Capital News
Caple surrendered just a single goal in the third straight game on Sunday as the Warriors beat Prince George 3-1 to improve its record to 16-10-0-2.
“If you want to be a good defensive team your best defender has to be your goalie and I think Stephen Caple has started to play how we knew he could play,” said Warriors coach Mark Howell. “He started the year slow but now he’s our number one defender. We’re still making mistakes defensively that are not helping us but now we have a second line of defense and Stephen is playing real well.”
Brady Mason sat out the Sunday game with an upper body injury while fellow 20-year-olds Pierre Girard and Daman Milsom remain out as does 19-year-old Pierre Girard.
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Caple surrendered just a single goal in the third straight game on Sunday as the Warriors beat Prince George 3-1 to improve its record to 16-10-0-2.
“If you want to be a good defensive team your best defender has to be your goalie and I think Stephen Caple has started to play how we knew he could play,” said Warriors coach Mark Howell. “He started the year slow but now he’s our number one defender. We’re still making mistakes defensively that are not helping us but now we have a second line of defense and Stephen is playing real well.”
Brady Mason sat out the Sunday game with an upper body injury while fellow 20-year-olds Pierre Girard and Daman Milsom remain out as does 19-year-old Pierre Girard.
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Nunn ignites Grizzlies' offence in 5-1 win
by Sharie Epp of the Victoria Times Colonist
That's meant living through this B.C. Hockey League season with nearly a dozen rookies, nine of them still in high school.
Kerr said the learning curve this year is one he doesn't plan on repeating.
"You hope you only have to go through this once, because it hasn't been easy."
"We have a team that's struggled on a nightly basis to compete at this level," Kerr said, adding the strength of the league has surprised him. Some top midget, Junior B, and former WHL players he expected to see making an immediate impact on the BCHL have taken time to acclimatize.
As a result, Kerr and assistance coach Bryant Perrier have been putting in the extra hours, and paying their dues to build a successful program. Sixteen of their 21 players will be back next year.
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That's meant living through this B.C. Hockey League season with nearly a dozen rookies, nine of them still in high school.
Kerr said the learning curve this year is one he doesn't plan on repeating.
"You hope you only have to go through this once, because it hasn't been easy."
"We have a team that's struggled on a nightly basis to compete at this level," Kerr said, adding the strength of the league has surprised him. Some top midget, Junior B, and former WHL players he expected to see making an immediate impact on the BCHL have taken time to acclimatize.
As a result, Kerr and assistance coach Bryant Perrier have been putting in the extra hours, and paying their dues to build a successful program. Sixteen of their 21 players will be back next year.
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Island horror show hits Vipers
by Staff of the Vernon Morning Star
The night before, their hotel in Victoria flooded. No report if California rookie Kyle Bigos had pushed the wrong button on the ice machine, causing the flood.
Vernon’s leading scorer Hunter Bishop, who was ejected late in the second period from Friday night’s game for a questionable charging major in a 4-3 overtime loss to the Nanaimo Clippers, was playing on less sleep than his teammates after a suspicious character tried breaking into his hotel room at 2 a.m. Saturday.
Ferner was explaining some penalty-killing tactics to Bishop and Connor Jones on Sunday when referee Cris Hahn skated by the Viper bench.
“I looked up and he said, ‘You gotta go.’ I said, ‘What did I do?’ I knew there was a rule, but I thought you had to sit out the next game. I wasn’t going to argue my way out of that one.”
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The night before, their hotel in Victoria flooded. No report if California rookie Kyle Bigos had pushed the wrong button on the ice machine, causing the flood.
Vernon’s leading scorer Hunter Bishop, who was ejected late in the second period from Friday night’s game for a questionable charging major in a 4-3 overtime loss to the Nanaimo Clippers, was playing on less sleep than his teammates after a suspicious character tried breaking into his hotel room at 2 a.m. Saturday.
Ferner was explaining some penalty-killing tactics to Bishop and Connor Jones on Sunday when referee Cris Hahn skated by the Viper bench.
“I looked up and he said, ‘You gotta go.’ I said, ‘What did I do?’ I knew there was a rule, but I thought you had to sit out the next game. I wasn’t going to argue my way out of that one.”
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Smoke Eaters split homestand
by Craig Baird of the Trail-Rossland News
“The goalie went down and I went up top. I did not know I scored the second one, it went off a shin-pad and went in,” Aiken said.
The Penticton Vees (19-7-2-0), who continue to lead the BCHL, have struggled recently, winning only five of their last ten.
So far this season, Oursov has eight goals and five assists in 21 games with the Smoke Eaters.
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“The goalie went down and I went up top. I did not know I scored the second one, it went off a shin-pad and went in,” Aiken said.
The Penticton Vees (19-7-2-0), who continue to lead the BCHL, have struggled recently, winning only five of their last ten.
So far this season, Oursov has eight goals and five assists in 21 games with the Smoke Eaters.
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Smokie selected for World U-17 Hockey Challenge
by Guy Bertrand of the Trail Daily Times
Oursov made his way through the 120 players involved in the CCM B.C. Cup in Salmon Arm in April, the 51 players invited to the provincial development camp in Nanaimo in July, and the 18 players shortlisted for the final selections.
"Every single player (at the development camp) was good enough to be there. But I guess it's the guy that works harder every minute that will make it eventually."
"On Boxing Day we fly to Alberta, shake hands with the guys from Alberta and we're a team. I don't think we even get time to practice."
The tournament runs from Dec. 27 to Jan. 4. That means Oursov will miss a minimum of three games over that stretch.
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Oursov made his way through the 120 players involved in the CCM B.C. Cup in Salmon Arm in April, the 51 players invited to the provincial development camp in Nanaimo in July, and the 18 players shortlisted for the final selections.
"Every single player (at the development camp) was good enough to be there. But I guess it's the guy that works harder every minute that will make it eventually."
"On Boxing Day we fly to Alberta, shake hands with the guys from Alberta and we're a team. I don't think we even get time to practice."
The tournament runs from Dec. 27 to Jan. 4. That means Oursov will miss a minimum of three games over that stretch.
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Clippers end Eagles' win streak
by Michael Booth of Surrey Now
The road trip was supposed to be a four-games-in-four-nights marathon but the Eagles were spared one leg of the journey when a storm-related power outage ruined the ice surface in Powell River, forcing Surrey's Thursday date with the Kings to be postponed.
"Thank God for the wind," Kuss joked. "I have to give Mother Nature credit for that one. I'm not complaining at all."
"It was a typical game in Nanaimo where they got all the bounces," Kuss said. "They got two cheesy goals off of bad bounces and we just couldn't capitalize on our chances. I think we had three open nets throughout the game and we missed on all three. We played well enough to beat them but it was a game of bounces and we just didn't get them."
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The road trip was supposed to be a four-games-in-four-nights marathon but the Eagles were spared one leg of the journey when a storm-related power outage ruined the ice surface in Powell River, forcing Surrey's Thursday date with the Kings to be postponed.
"Thank God for the wind," Kuss joked. "I have to give Mother Nature credit for that one. I'm not complaining at all."
"It was a typical game in Nanaimo where they got all the bounces," Kuss said. "They got two cheesy goals off of bad bounces and we just couldn't capitalize on our chances. I think we had three open nets throughout the game and we missed on all three. We played well enough to beat them but it was a game of bounces and we just didn't get them."
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Eagles nab two wins on trip
by Nick Greenizan of the Peace Arch News
The Eagles’ new netminder, Justin Mulholland – who replaces former backup goalie Jason Greenwell on the roster – stopped 31 of 32 shots in the victory.
Though he didn’t make it onto the scoresheet during the road trip, Kuss was also impressed with the play of defenceman Nolan Toigo, who’s been with the South Surrey-based club for the past two weeks, after leaving the Western Hockey League’s Vancouver Giants.
Toigo’s a versatile player who spent time at forward and defence for the Giants, he’s been a welcome addition to the Eagles’ blue-line brigade, and has three points in six games.
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The Eagles’ new netminder, Justin Mulholland – who replaces former backup goalie Jason Greenwell on the roster – stopped 31 of 32 shots in the victory.
Though he didn’t make it onto the scoresheet during the road trip, Kuss was also impressed with the play of defenceman Nolan Toigo, who’s been with the South Surrey-based club for the past two weeks, after leaving the Western Hockey League’s Vancouver Giants.
Toigo’s a versatile player who spent time at forward and defence for the Giants, he’s been a welcome addition to the Eagles’ blue-line brigade, and has three points in six games.
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Kings’ inconsistent play frustrating coach
by Alistair McInnis of the Prince George Free Press
“I was really happy with getting the win in Penticton, but very frustrated with the loss in Westside the following afternoon,” Dempsey said. “[The] bottom line [is] that’s been one of our Achilles heels throughout the year. We play a great game one night and then we can’t seem to carry over the momentum to the following night and that’s disappointing. We’ve got to find a way to be able to do that if we’re going to be a good hockey club.”
“[Our games are] all big,” Dempsey said. “That’s the frustrating part. We’re so close to breaking through. I’ve got to get everyone to buy in, especially our older guys and we’re right there.”
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“I was really happy with getting the win in Penticton, but very frustrated with the loss in Westside the following afternoon,” Dempsey said. “[The] bottom line [is] that’s been one of our Achilles heels throughout the year. We play a great game one night and then we can’t seem to carry over the momentum to the following night and that’s disappointing. We’ve got to find a way to be able to do that if we’re going to be a good hockey club.”
“[Our games are] all big,” Dempsey said. “That’s the frustrating part. We’re so close to breaking through. I’ve got to get everyone to buy in, especially our older guys and we’re right there.”
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Spruce Kings trade goalie
by Jason Peters of the Prince George Citizen
The Spruce Kings replaced Mainprize with 17-year-old Kevin Genoe, who began the season with the Alberni Valley Bulldogs.
Heading into Tuesday games, only two teams in the BCHL (Quesnel and Alberni Valley) had scored fewer goals than the Kings. And, on the flip side, only four clubs (Merritt, Surrey, Langley and Alberni Valley) had allowed more goals against. So, a future pickup from Merritt could address either offensive or defensive issues.
BCHL teams get 25 player cards. On or before Dec. 1, they must declare how many warm bodies and how many cards they are going to take into the Jan. 10 trade deadline.
For example: “You could go with 20 (players) and five (cards), or 21 and four, depending on how many moves you think you’re going to make at the trading deadline,” Dempsey said. “You can go 23 and two if you want, but that doesn’t leave you much leeway (for trade deadline additions).”
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The Spruce Kings replaced Mainprize with 17-year-old Kevin Genoe, who began the season with the Alberni Valley Bulldogs.
Heading into Tuesday games, only two teams in the BCHL (Quesnel and Alberni Valley) had scored fewer goals than the Kings. And, on the flip side, only four clubs (Merritt, Surrey, Langley and Alberni Valley) had allowed more goals against. So, a future pickup from Merritt could address either offensive or defensive issues.
BCHL teams get 25 player cards. On or before Dec. 1, they must declare how many warm bodies and how many cards they are going to take into the Jan. 10 trade deadline.
For example: “You could go with 20 (players) and five (cards), or 21 and four, depending on how many moves you think you’re going to make at the trading deadline,” Dempsey said. “You can go 23 and two if you want, but that doesn’t leave you much leeway (for trade deadline additions).”
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Vees looking for hard workers
by Harpreet Sidhu of the Penticton Western News
“I just don’t know if it was an emotional letdown from last (Friday) night. This league is a good league. If you are not ready to play it doesn’t matter who has the skill. Prince George deserved the two points. We gave up 19 shots in the second period and we usually give up 20 in a whole game,” said Harbinson.
"That Salmon Arm game was awesome game and it was one we deserved to win,” said Hextall. “And we followed it up with our worst performance of the year. Saturday was a bad night for all of us and it was pretty apparent.
“I think everyone worked hard,” said Harbinson. “I’m not a big fan of the bag skate but it was a situation where we have certain objectives we try and meet every game. If we had just lost the hockey game it would have been different. We were totally uncharacteristic of our hockey club it was a disappointing performance and it needed to be addressed. I think our guys worked hard today and will be ready for our regular practice tomorrow.”
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“I just don’t know if it was an emotional letdown from last (Friday) night. This league is a good league. If you are not ready to play it doesn’t matter who has the skill. Prince George deserved the two points. We gave up 19 shots in the second period and we usually give up 20 in a whole game,” said Harbinson.
"That Salmon Arm game was awesome game and it was one we deserved to win,” said Hextall. “And we followed it up with our worst performance of the year. Saturday was a bad night for all of us and it was pretty apparent.
“I think everyone worked hard,” said Harbinson. “I’m not a big fan of the bag skate but it was a situation where we have certain objectives we try and meet every game. If we had just lost the hockey game it would have been different. We were totally uncharacteristic of our hockey club it was a disappointing performance and it needed to be addressed. I think our guys worked hard today and will be ready for our regular practice tomorrow.”
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BCHL rivalry has been fight-filled and fun
by Scott Brown of The Nanaimo Daily News
Five games, 30 fighting majors and multiple suspensions, this year's chapter of the Nanaimo-Cowichan rivalry in the B.C. Hockey League has been one for the ages.
Regina views the tallented, but very raw, Kennedy as a project player.
"He's up for a look," Pats GM Brent Parker told the Regina Leader-Post. "We'll see where he's at with his development. He's one of those late-developing kids that we got a tip on. If he has advanced like we think he has then there's a good chance he'll stay with us."
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Five games, 30 fighting majors and multiple suspensions, this year's chapter of the Nanaimo-Cowichan rivalry in the B.C. Hockey League has been one for the ages.
Regina views the tallented, but very raw, Kennedy as a project player.
"He's up for a look," Pats GM Brent Parker told the Regina Leader-Post. "We'll see where he's at with his development. He's one of those late-developing kids that we got a tip on. If he has advanced like we think he has then there's a good chance he'll stay with us."
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Cents turn to trades for support
by Heather Thomson of the Merritt Herald
Just prior to Thursday’s game against Quesnel the coaching staff shook out two key players in the Cents’ roster, defencemen Trevor Verwolf and Justin Thomas.
Cents netminder Anthony Manfredi was sold to the Junior B Kamloops Storm last week before the team added a new goalie. Shane Mainprize made the switch from the Prince George Spruce Kings to Merritt.
Also joining the roster for Tuesday night’s game was newly acquired 19-year-old forward Justin Taylor.
The most shocking moment in the game came at 14:29 when an unprovoked attack came from Harrison’s ex-teammate Rigby Burgart. After brutally bashing Harrison’s head into the boards behind the goal, Burgart was thrown out for unsportsmanlike conduct and collected nine minutes in penalties.
At first a penalty was called against Harrison, but it was quickly recalled after objection from both the Cents’ bench and the crowd.
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Just prior to Thursday’s game against Quesnel the coaching staff shook out two key players in the Cents’ roster, defencemen Trevor Verwolf and Justin Thomas.
Cents netminder Anthony Manfredi was sold to the Junior B Kamloops Storm last week before the team added a new goalie. Shane Mainprize made the switch from the Prince George Spruce Kings to Merritt.
Also joining the roster for Tuesday night’s game was newly acquired 19-year-old forward Justin Taylor.
The most shocking moment in the game came at 14:29 when an unprovoked attack came from Harrison’s ex-teammate Rigby Burgart. After brutally bashing Harrison’s head into the boards behind the goal, Burgart was thrown out for unsportsmanlike conduct and collected nine minutes in penalties.
At first a penalty was called against Harrison, but it was quickly recalled after objection from both the Cents’ bench and the crowd.
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Centennials lose Casey Pierro-Zabotel to WHL
by Colin Oswin of the Merritt Herald
“It was one of the hardest choices I’ve ever had to make,” he says. “My whole future is on the line here.”
Zabotel says the staff at Michigan Tech worked hard to get him in, but it just didn’t work out. He has no hard feelings toward the school.
Between 2004 and 2007, Zabotel played 212 games with the Centennials. He racked up 110 goals and 126 assists, earning 1.1 points per game during his BCHL career.
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“It was one of the hardest choices I’ve ever had to make,” he says. “My whole future is on the line here.”
Zabotel says the staff at Michigan Tech worked hard to get him in, but it just didn’t work out. He has no hard feelings toward the school.
Between 2004 and 2007, Zabotel played 212 games with the Centennials. He racked up 110 goals and 126 assists, earning 1.1 points per game during his BCHL career.
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Wednesday, November 21, 2007
Smiley shuts out Vipers, Bodger scores both goals
by Don Bodger of the Cowichan News Leader and Pictorial
Smiley gave full credit to his defencemen for making his job easier, particularly during the second period when he faced only three shots — although all three were dangerous scoring opportunities.
Ryne Bodger, who just turned 18 on Nov. 2, potted a pair of goals less than four minutes apart in the second period. He also scored in Vernon Oct. 6 and now has all three career BCHL goals against the Vipers.
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Smiley gave full credit to his defencemen for making his job easier, particularly during the second period when he faced only three shots — although all three were dangerous scoring opportunities.
Ryne Bodger, who just turned 18 on Nov. 2, potted a pair of goals less than four minutes apart in the second period. He also scored in Vernon Oct. 6 and now has all three career BCHL goals against the Vipers.
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Express are still waiting for takeoff
by Tom Berridge of Burnaby Now
Despite the loss, the Express are 6-3 in their last three games and one of the better teams on special teams, including the second-best penalty kill at home and sixth overall power play.
"Special teams are a big focus of ours this year. Our power play is getting better and better," McLellan said.
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Despite the loss, the Express are 6-3 in their last three games and one of the better teams on special teams, including the second-best penalty kill at home and sixth overall power play.
"Special teams are a big focus of ours this year. Our power play is getting better and better," McLellan said.
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Bulldogs start well but fade against Grizz
by Michael Briones of the Alberni Valley Times
"We outshot the Grizzlies 11-5 and we had some good quality chances to score early on," said assistant coach Bryant Perrier.
"Al made that decision in a situation where he made it clear to the guys after the first that if we're not going to respond to this -- and it wasn'tabout the mistakes -- it was about responding to the mistakes, they were going to sit there," said Perrier. "It was a tactic that he tried."
The Bulldogs will be adding a new forward this coming Friday. At present, they are still waiting for the BCHL's approval and will be making an announcement soon.
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"We outshot the Grizzlies 11-5 and we had some good quality chances to score early on," said assistant coach Bryant Perrier.
"Al made that decision in a situation where he made it clear to the guys after the first that if we're not going to respond to this -- and it wasn'tabout the mistakes -- it was about responding to the mistakes, they were going to sit there," said Perrier. "It was a tactic that he tried."
The Bulldogs will be adding a new forward this coming Friday. At present, they are still waiting for the BCHL's approval and will be making an announcement soon.
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Tuesday, November 20, 2007
Warriors full merit for win
by Dave Trifunov of the Kelowna Daily Courier
Kyle McConnell started for the Centennials, but was pulled midway through the second. He allowed two goals on 25 shots, and didn‘t look happy skating to the bench. Brennon Jones stopped 14 of 15 shots he faced in relief.
“We just weren‘t getting the bounces,” said Gehon, who has 15 points in seven games since being traded to Merritt from Cowichan Valley.
The Warriors scratched F Chris Shudo, F Pierre Girard (shoulder, 2-3 weeks) and D Daman Milsom.
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Kyle McConnell started for the Centennials, but was pulled midway through the second. He allowed two goals on 25 shots, and didn‘t look happy skating to the bench. Brennon Jones stopped 14 of 15 shots he faced in relief.
“We just weren‘t getting the bounces,” said Gehon, who has 15 points in seven games since being traded to Merritt from Cowichan Valley.
The Warriors scratched F Chris Shudo, F Pierre Girard (shoulder, 2-3 weeks) and D Daman Milsom.
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Grizzlies' Bremner shines at lacrosse, too
by Sharie Epp of the Victoria Times Colonist
"Lacrosse is pretty physical. You get beat up a lot, so it helps you in hockey," said Bremner, who was reminded of that recently at Bear Mountain. "I sat down one day with the coach, and he told me to go the net more. He said, 'I've seen you play lacrosse, and you go to the net and take a hell of a lot more beating than you do in hockey.'"
Among his lacrosse laurels, the senior Bremner is a former Victoria Shamrock and coach of the Junior Shamrocks, as well as a former assistant coach and GM of the Calgary Roughnecks of the National Lacrosse League.
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"Lacrosse is pretty physical. You get beat up a lot, so it helps you in hockey," said Bremner, who was reminded of that recently at Bear Mountain. "I sat down one day with the coach, and he told me to go the net more. He said, 'I've seen you play lacrosse, and you go to the net and take a hell of a lot more beating than you do in hockey.'"
Among his lacrosse laurels, the senior Bremner is a former Victoria Shamrock and coach of the Junior Shamrocks, as well as a former assistant coach and GM of the Calgary Roughnecks of the National Lacrosse League.
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Grizzlies fend off Vipers in OT
by Cleve Dheensaw of the Victoria Times Colonist
"I got a face full of plastic [Plexiglas] and was a little groggy on Friday but that's part of hockey and the risk you take playing the game," noted the six-foot-one Robertson, son of former CHEK sportscaster Alex Robertson.
"Those are the guys who need to play against the other team's top line and shut it down and they did," said Grizzlies head coach and GM Jackson Penney.
"That's the kind of hockey we must get from them and we got it. We rebounded from our previous game and worked hard against one of the top teams in the league and probably the top player in the league. Hunter Bishop could be playing in the NCAA right now. He's that good."
"There's a reason we've got the second-best goals-against total in the league and why we have to keep the score down -- because we're not going to score a lot. So we take great pride in our defensive play," said Penney.
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"I got a face full of plastic [Plexiglas] and was a little groggy on Friday but that's part of hockey and the risk you take playing the game," noted the six-foot-one Robertson, son of former CHEK sportscaster Alex Robertson.
"Those are the guys who need to play against the other team's top line and shut it down and they did," said Grizzlies head coach and GM Jackson Penney.
"That's the kind of hockey we must get from them and we got it. We rebounded from our previous game and worked hard against one of the top teams in the league and probably the top player in the league. Hunter Bishop could be playing in the NCAA right now. He's that good."
"There's a reason we've got the second-best goals-against total in the league and why we have to keep the score down -- because we're not going to score a lot. So we take great pride in our defensive play," said Penney.
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Grizz coach aims for rebound after walloping from Express
by Sharie Epp of the Victoria Times Colonist
The second period added to the disaster. Brodie Reid scored his 21st of the season to made it 3-0 at 4:19, and things went downhill from there. Spencer Bennett and Cody Campbell added a couple more, and the Grizzlies pulled starting goaltender Matthew Wong in favour of Paul Kolida. Looking as stunned as their fans by this time, the Grizz gave up power-play goals to Matt Thomson and Carlo Finucci before the period ended, with Burnaby up 7-0.
Nunn extended his points streak to 18 games last night.
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The second period added to the disaster. Brodie Reid scored his 21st of the season to made it 3-0 at 4:19, and things went downhill from there. Spencer Bennett and Cody Campbell added a couple more, and the Grizzlies pulled starting goaltender Matthew Wong in favour of Paul Kolida. Looking as stunned as their fans by this time, the Grizz gave up power-play goals to Matt Thomson and Carlo Finucci before the period ended, with Burnaby up 7-0.
Nunn extended his points streak to 18 games last night.
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Young Express roll into Grizzlies' den
by Sharie Epp of the Victoria Times Colonist
One of them, Cam Reid, is expected to be named shortly as one of just a couple of B.C. Hockey League players chosen to participate in the World Under-17 Challenge, which starts on Dec. 19 in London, Ont.
Team Pacific is one of five Canadian teams who'll be joined at the tournament by international competitors from Finland, Slovakia, Germany, Russia, and the United States.
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One of them, Cam Reid, is expected to be named shortly as one of just a couple of B.C. Hockey League players chosen to participate in the World Under-17 Challenge, which starts on Dec. 19 in London, Ont.
Team Pacific is one of five Canadian teams who'll be joined at the tournament by international competitors from Finland, Slovakia, Germany, Russia, and the United States.
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Vipers steamed with OT defeat
by Staff of the Vernon Morning Star
We didn’t get a call and there were a lot of non-calls on them,” said Ferner. “The call on Bish was absolutely embarrassing. He (enforcer Todd Kennedy) got hit like he was run over by a vehicle. None of the linesmen or the ref saw it, I can guarantee it. He was laying there motionless for 20 seconds. If the ref had thought he was hurt, you would think he would have had his hand up.
“They (Clippers) were diving and flopping all over the place. It was like a yard sale. I was surprised that a team with that kind of tradition would play like that. That’s not how you play hockey.”
“We played well enough to win. They (Nanaimo) had nothing going...We need to find a way to win games like that. I told the guys to remember how this feels and not to have this feeling again.”
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We didn’t get a call and there were a lot of non-calls on them,” said Ferner. “The call on Bish was absolutely embarrassing. He (enforcer Todd Kennedy) got hit like he was run over by a vehicle. None of the linesmen or the ref saw it, I can guarantee it. He was laying there motionless for 20 seconds. If the ref had thought he was hurt, you would think he would have had his hand up.
“They (Clippers) were diving and flopping all over the place. It was like a yard sale. I was surprised that a team with that kind of tradition would play like that. That’s not how you play hockey.”
“We played well enough to win. They (Nanaimo) had nothing going...We need to find a way to win games like that. I told the guys to remember how this feels and not to have this feeling again.”
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Vipers watch twins dangle
by Staff of the Vernon Morning Star
“The puck was following me around,” said Bishop, who took over the BCHL points derby lead with 41. “Connor (Jones) kept setting me up and I was fortunate enugh to get those goals. I thought the Joneses (Kellen is the other twin) played awesome. They are so dominate on the cycle. I let them go down and do their thing, and I pop up in the slot at the right time.”
“Aime played great,” said Bishop. “From what we saw in practice, I think he surprised a lot of guys. He made some big saves and pretty much kept that team in the game.”
The last-place Merritt Centennials released rookie goalie Anthony Manfredi, rookie defenceman Justin Thomas and veteran blueliner Trevor Verwolf.
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“The puck was following me around,” said Bishop, who took over the BCHL points derby lead with 41. “Connor (Jones) kept setting me up and I was fortunate enugh to get those goals. I thought the Joneses (Kellen is the other twin) played awesome. They are so dominate on the cycle. I let them go down and do their thing, and I pop up in the slot at the right time.”
“Aime played great,” said Bishop. “From what we saw in practice, I think he surprised a lot of guys. He made some big saves and pretty much kept that team in the game.”
The last-place Merritt Centennials released rookie goalie Anthony Manfredi, rookie defenceman Justin Thomas and veteran blueliner Trevor Verwolf.
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Another Jekyll and Hyde weekend for Smokies
by Guy Bertrand of the Trail Daily Times
Quesnel could hardly be considered a bad team in the Smokies' eyes. The Millionaires have won four of five against Trail including all three at the Cominco Arena.
"We put every puck on the net," said Oursov. "We finished every check and that sort of rattled them."
It was bad enough for Ferster to call a timeout just 41 seconds into the game.
"I wasn't happy with the first couple of shifts. I didn't think our heads were in it and I wanted our guys to know, 'Hey, we're in a game.'"
Smoke Eater forward Steve Oursov was one of 11 B.C. players named to Team Pacific that will compete in the World U-I7 Challenge in London, Ont., at Christmas.
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Quesnel could hardly be considered a bad team in the Smokies' eyes. The Millionaires have won four of five against Trail including all three at the Cominco Arena.
"We put every puck on the net," said Oursov. "We finished every check and that sort of rattled them."
It was bad enough for Ferster to call a timeout just 41 seconds into the game.
"I wasn't happy with the first couple of shifts. I didn't think our heads were in it and I wanted our guys to know, 'Hey, we're in a game.'"
Smoke Eater forward Steve Oursov was one of 11 B.C. players named to Team Pacific that will compete in the World U-I7 Challenge in London, Ont., at Christmas.
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Okanagan split for Spruce Kings
by Ted Clarke of the Prince George Citizen
"We haven't been getting the saves when we needed them but definitely this weekend we did -- Damien was solid and he gave us a chance in (Sunday's) game as well, but when you only score one goal you're not going to win too many games," said Kings associate coach Stew Malgunas.
"Everybody played to their potential in Penticton and we played with tons of energy. There's some talent here when everybody brings their A-game but if we don't we're in trouble. It was a see-saw game (Sunday) and could have gone either way, but they had more jump in the third period and we looked tired."
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"We haven't been getting the saves when we needed them but definitely this weekend we did -- Damien was solid and he gave us a chance in (Sunday's) game as well, but when you only score one goal you're not going to win too many games," said Kings associate coach Stew Malgunas.
"Everybody played to their potential in Penticton and we played with tons of energy. There's some talent here when everybody brings their A-game but if we don't we're in trouble. It was a see-saw game (Sunday) and could have gone either way, but they had more jump in the third period and we looked tired."
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Forsythe, Kings target Vees tonight in Penticton
by Ted Clarke of the Prince George Citizen
“My knee still hurts, but it’s going to hurt for awhile,” said Forsythe, who played five games in 10 days for Canada West. “The tournament definitely helped. I feel I’m in a lot better shape than when I left. My stamina is better now.”
The Kings have acquired 17-year-old goaltender Kevin Genoe as a free agent following his release from the Alberni Valley Bulldogs. To make room for Genoe, the Kings released 18-year-old goalie Shane Mainprize.
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“My knee still hurts, but it’s going to hurt for awhile,” said Forsythe, who played five games in 10 days for Canada West. “The tournament definitely helped. I feel I’m in a lot better shape than when I left. My stamina is better now.”
The Kings have acquired 17-year-old goaltender Kevin Genoe as a free agent following his release from the Alberni Valley Bulldogs. To make room for Genoe, the Kings released 18-year-old goalie Shane Mainprize.
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Treasure in hand
by Ted Clarke of the Prince George Citizen
“We came out flying in the semifinal and once we got there, we knew that (gold) medal was ours,” said Forsythe. “We had such a good team and we pretty much clicked right away. We hit and hit the Americans every which way and in between the second and third periods we could hear through the air ducts their coach losing his mind. They didn’t have a chance.”
“The guys took their lumps, but it paid off in the long run,” said Forsythe. “Our coach (Rybalka) was saying discipline was Canada’s weakness forever and now it’s our strength. It was hard to stay on the bench when our guys were getting pummeled, but to go out and win a gold medal after that, it was huge.”
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“We came out flying in the semifinal and once we got there, we knew that (gold) medal was ours,” said Forsythe. “We had such a good team and we pretty much clicked right away. We hit and hit the Americans every which way and in between the second and third periods we could hear through the air ducts their coach losing his mind. They didn’t have a chance.”
“The guys took their lumps, but it paid off in the long run,” said Forsythe. “Our coach (Rybalka) was saying discipline was Canada’s weakness forever and now it’s our strength. It was hard to stay on the bench when our guys were getting pummeled, but to go out and win a gold medal after that, it was huge.”
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Injury bug bites as Vees return
by Staff of the Penticton Western News
After starting back-to-back games in each of the last two weekends, Alex Evin seems to have cemented his status as the Vees No. 1 goaltender after playing five of the teams six games over the past two weeks.
Seventeen-year-old speedster Mitch Lebreche has earned a full-time gig with the Vees. The Summerland Sting product impressed the Vees coaches enough over his three games as an AP to warrant the second to last roster position on the club last week.
Super-pest Luke Challier appears to be getting closer to his return to the line up. Challier, who has five fights in seven games, took the pre-game warm-up Friday against Vernon last weekend but likely won’t be ready for this weekends pair.
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After starting back-to-back games in each of the last two weekends, Alex Evin seems to have cemented his status as the Vees No. 1 goaltender after playing five of the teams six games over the past two weeks.
Seventeen-year-old speedster Mitch Lebreche has earned a full-time gig with the Vees. The Summerland Sting product impressed the Vees coaches enough over his three games as an AP to warrant the second to last roster position on the club last week.
Super-pest Luke Challier appears to be getting closer to his return to the line up. Challier, who has five fights in seven games, took the pre-game warm-up Friday against Vernon last weekend but likely won’t be ready for this weekends pair.
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Sweet shutout
by Harpreet Sidhu of the Penticton Western News
“It’s a big game and parents weekend there is a lot going on. The Salmon Arm game will be big with the coaching change and Evan Pighin leaving and Travis Briard hurt his ankle. Hopefully we can get them when they are down,” said Hextall.
On Wednesday night Manderson and Dalpe were added to an already growing list of injured players. The Vees had Devon Krogh, Luke Challier and Curtis McKenzie all sidelined for Wednesday’s game.
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“It’s a big game and parents weekend there is a lot going on. The Salmon Arm game will be big with the coaching change and Evan Pighin leaving and Travis Briard hurt his ankle. Hopefully we can get them when they are down,” said Hextall.
On Wednesday night Manderson and Dalpe were added to an already growing list of injured players. The Vees had Devon Krogh, Luke Challier and Curtis McKenzie all sidelined for Wednesday’s game.
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Rolling Chiefs forced to play waiting game
by Troy Landreville of the Langley Advance
The Langley Chiefs, winners of seven straight, are on Day 9 of an 11-day break.
The Chiefs have been unstoppable in November, outscoring their collective opposition by a 37-13 count.
"The last few games, my coaches wouldn't let me fight," Tresierra said with a chuckle. "I play an all-around game, but when I scrap, it's usually a good one."
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The Langley Chiefs, winners of seven straight, are on Day 9 of an 11-day break.
The Chiefs have been unstoppable in November, outscoring their collective opposition by a 37-13 count.
"The last few games, my coaches wouldn't let me fight," Tresierra said with a chuckle. "I play an all-around game, but when I scrap, it's usually a good one."
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Robinson savours medal, but desired a larger role
by Don Bodger of the Cowichan News Leader and Pictorial
“The game we played against Trail, I played probably one of my better games of the year,’’ he said. “The next game, I didn’t see the ice.’’
“It was absolute mayhem,’’ said Robinson, “the worst brawl I’d ever seen.’’
“They had me at right wing and some left wing,’’ Robinson pointed out. “I didn’t get to take one face-off. He (coach Boris Rybalka from the Camrose Kodiaks) didn’t put me in a position where I was able to help the team.’’
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“The game we played against Trail, I played probably one of my better games of the year,’’ he said. “The next game, I didn’t see the ice.’’
“It was absolute mayhem,’’ said Robinson, “the worst brawl I’d ever seen.’’
“They had me at right wing and some left wing,’’ Robinson pointed out. “I didn’t get to take one face-off. He (coach Boris Rybalka from the Camrose Kodiaks) didn’t put me in a position where I was able to help the team.’’
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Tiny Coastal league comes up big
by Steve Ewen of The Province
Arduin had one practice and two games a week going through the ranks of the tiny Sunshine Coast Minor Hockey (registration 220 players) in Sechelt.
He's the first player from the Sunshine Coast organization to land a scholarship.
"When I was playing in Vernon two years ago, we had guys from Shattuck [the famed Minnesota prep school whose graduates include Sidney Crosby]. When you tell them about it, they can't believe it.
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Arduin had one practice and two games a week going through the ranks of the tiny Sunshine Coast Minor Hockey (registration 220 players) in Sechelt.
He's the first player from the Sunshine Coast organization to land a scholarship.
"When I was playing in Vernon two years ago, we had guys from Shattuck [the famed Minnesota prep school whose graduates include Sidney Crosby]. When you tell them about it, they can't believe it.
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Thursday, November 15, 2007
Vees cash in on Millionaires
by Bob Munday of the Penticton Herald
After dominating the first period as evidenced by the shots-on-goal margin of 16-0 in favour of the Vees, Penticton also manhandled the visitors with an 11-to-five shots advantage.
Denver Manderson and Zak Dalpe were both injured in the second period. Manderson was taken to the hospital while Dalpe watched the third period from the press box. . .
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After dominating the first period as evidenced by the shots-on-goal margin of 16-0 in favour of the Vees, Penticton also manhandled the visitors with an 11-to-five shots advantage.
Denver Manderson and Zak Dalpe were both injured in the second period. Manderson was taken to the hospital while Dalpe watched the third period from the press box. . .
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Vees defeat Quesnel––lose Dalpe and Manderson
by Harpreet Sidhu of the Penticton Western News
The Vees defence was suffocating in the first period with the Mills not registering a single shot on net.
Dalpe suffered a right wrist injury, which was taped up during the second intermission. Manderson was taken to the hospital with a undisclosed upper body injury.
Vees head coach Fred Harbinson wasn’t sure following the game of the injury situation. He did say he was expecting Dalpe back in the line up for Friday night when the Vees host the Salmon Arm SilverBacks who sit two points behind the Vees for first place in the Interior Conference.
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The Vees defence was suffocating in the first period with the Mills not registering a single shot on net.
Dalpe suffered a right wrist injury, which was taped up during the second intermission. Manderson was taken to the hospital with a undisclosed upper body injury.
Vees head coach Fred Harbinson wasn’t sure following the game of the injury situation. He did say he was expecting Dalpe back in the line up for Friday night when the Vees host the Salmon Arm SilverBacks who sit two points behind the Vees for first place in the Interior Conference.
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Forgettable victory for Clippers
by Michael Rhode of the Nanaimo Daily News
"Talk about Picasso and paint, this game was brought to you by Home Depot because we just watched a lot of it dry," said Clippers' coach Bill Bestwick. "Thank goodness Mike Garman played as good as he did in the second period. That effort won't win very many hockey games."
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"Talk about Picasso and paint, this game was brought to you by Home Depot because we just watched a lot of it dry," said Clippers' coach Bill Bestwick. "Thank goodness Mike Garman played as good as he did in the second period. That effort won't win very many hockey games."
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Caps earn split with Clips
by Kevin Rothbauer of The Cowichan Valley Citizen
Robinson points to Clippers coach Bill Bestwick as the source of the escalating bad blood between the teams.
"I don't know if I've seen a coach do as much yapping at players as the Nanaimo coach," he said. "I'm embarrassed for him, really."
An incensed Cowichan defenceman Greg Brown fired the puck at the Nanaimo bench as time ticked down, and will be suspended a minimum of three games. While Robinson didn't defend Brown's actions, he understood the sentiment behind them.
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Robinson points to Clippers coach Bill Bestwick as the source of the escalating bad blood between the teams.
"I don't know if I've seen a coach do as much yapping at players as the Nanaimo coach," he said. "I'm embarrassed for him, really."
An incensed Cowichan defenceman Greg Brown fired the puck at the Nanaimo bench as time ticked down, and will be suspended a minimum of three games. While Robinson didn't defend Brown's actions, he understood the sentiment behind them.
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Express take two of three on road trip
by Grant Granger of the Burnaby NewsLeader
“We’re connecting better as a group, our passing and our receiving. We’re trying to be a speed-oriented team and we showed we can play with speed, for sure, on that trip.”
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“We’re connecting better as a group, our passing and our receiving. We’re trying to be a speed-oriented team and we showed we can play with speed, for sure, on that trip.”
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Kipp and Lee strike gold at World Jr. Challenge
by Staff of the Salmon Arm Observer
Like last year, Kipp was joined by a SilverBacks’ teammate on the winning team. Second year forward Derek Lee was also part of this year’s championship and he fellows in the shoes of former SilverBacks’ forwards Ben Winnett and Riley Nash, who were part of the 2006 title.
“Every game you have to go out and leave everything out there,” he said. “For this tournament, I wasn’t in the same role I have with the SilverBacks but it’s just about doing whatever the coach needs you to do. And when you’re playing for Canada, with that maple leaf on your chest, it’s an awesome experience.”
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Like last year, Kipp was joined by a SilverBacks’ teammate on the winning team. Second year forward Derek Lee was also part of this year’s championship and he fellows in the shoes of former SilverBacks’ forwards Ben Winnett and Riley Nash, who were part of the 2006 title.
“Every game you have to go out and leave everything out there,” he said. “For this tournament, I wasn’t in the same role I have with the SilverBacks but it’s just about doing whatever the coach needs you to do. And when you’re playing for Canada, with that maple leaf on your chest, it’s an awesome experience.”
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Points for Pighin in Bruins debut
by Eric Welsh of the Chilliwack Progress
“I did a lot of thinking over the summer and I really liked Salmon Arm,” Pighin said, explaining his decision to turn down the Bruins three months ago. “I was pretty tempted to come to Chilliwack, but I’d given Gary and Ty Davidson my word that I’d play for Salmon Arm if I was available.”
The loyalty to Salmon Arm’s coach (Ty) and general manager (Gary) is why Pighin went back, but when the Silverbacks turfed both Davidsons in an organizational shakeup last week, all bets were off.
“When they left, it became a pretty easy decision to come here,” Pighin said. “I made a commitment to them, and once they left, there wasn’t anything else to keep me in Salmon Arm."
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“I did a lot of thinking over the summer and I really liked Salmon Arm,” Pighin said, explaining his decision to turn down the Bruins three months ago. “I was pretty tempted to come to Chilliwack, but I’d given Gary and Ty Davidson my word that I’d play for Salmon Arm if I was available.”
The loyalty to Salmon Arm’s coach (Ty) and general manager (Gary) is why Pighin went back, but when the Silverbacks turfed both Davidsons in an organizational shakeup last week, all bets were off.
“When they left, it became a pretty easy decision to come here,” Pighin said. “I made a commitment to them, and once they left, there wasn’t anything else to keep me in Salmon Arm."
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Hanagan the hero for ’Backs
by Richard MacKenzie of the Salmon Arm Observer
“All the guys stepped up,” said the modest Hanagan when asked his winning goals and overall strong play (had four goals in the two games) in the absence of some of the team’s top players. “Jeff Smith (who had a two goal effort versus Trail), Kelly Zajac, everybody really... and it was especially important with Penticton dropping a few games like they did. We wanted to take advantage of that.”
“The players have been great,” he said. “They’re getting to know me while I get to know them. For me, I don’t really look at the record but rather what areas can we improve on as a team. No matter how good you are, you can always get better. That’s the focus Matt (Hughes, assistant coach) and I have taken.”
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“All the guys stepped up,” said the modest Hanagan when asked his winning goals and overall strong play (had four goals in the two games) in the absence of some of the team’s top players. “Jeff Smith (who had a two goal effort versus Trail), Kelly Zajac, everybody really... and it was especially important with Penticton dropping a few games like they did. We wanted to take advantage of that.”
“The players have been great,” he said. “They’re getting to know me while I get to know them. For me, I don’t really look at the record but rather what areas can we improve on as a team. No matter how good you are, you can always get better. That’s the focus Matt (Hughes, assistant coach) and I have taken.”
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Vipers stall in home battle
by Kevin Mitchell of the Vernon Morning Star
The Vipers, who are a miserable 5-7 at home, were taking the play to the Vees in the opening 10 minutes of the first period before 2,468 fans.
“It was a good hit,” said Viper rookie Brock Palasty, named second star for a strong two-way performance. “It was the turning point of the game. Our effort was there. They played the trap after they took the lead, and shut us down.”
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The Vipers, who are a miserable 5-7 at home, were taking the play to the Vees in the opening 10 minutes of the first period before 2,468 fans.
“It was a good hit,” said Viper rookie Brock Palasty, named second star for a strong two-way performance. “It was the turning point of the game. Our effort was there. They played the trap after they took the lead, and shut us down.”
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Millionaires honour war veterans
by Rachel Stern of the Quesnel Cariboo Observer
Saturday, Millionaires played a fun-filled game of shimmy with Quesnel’s bantam teams.
The players switched jerseys and played on both sides with the youth.
“When we started the third period we were all over them – we were in their end and we managed to tie the game,” Bohmer explained.
“Then they got a couple of soft goals by our goaltender and that ended up being the difference.”
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Saturday, Millionaires played a fun-filled game of shimmy with Quesnel’s bantam teams.
The players switched jerseys and played on both sides with the youth.
“When we started the third period we were all over them – we were in their end and we managed to tie the game,” Bohmer explained.
“Then they got a couple of soft goals by our goaltender and that ended up being the difference.”
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Express cool Kings’ passion
by Alistair McInnis of the Prince George Free Press
“We got a lot of chances [against Burnaby on Saturday],” Dempsey said. “I’ll give credit to their goaltender, [Kevin] Jebson. Anytime you make [30] plus saves you’ve done your job as a goalie, but I’ve got to give our team a little kick in the ass also at the same time because we had way too many really good chances that we just didn’t bear down and finish. That’s been one of our Achilles heels all year and that’s basically what was disappointing in the game, not so much that we didn’t work because we worked and we tried hard, but we just didn’t play with enough passion.”
“You’re always concerned about your goaltending, and that’s an area that we’re going to have to address one way or another in the next week or two,” Dempsey said.
“Damien has played very well for us, had a big win against Vernon and [was] a big part of that point against Penticton.”
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“We got a lot of chances [against Burnaby on Saturday],” Dempsey said. “I’ll give credit to their goaltender, [Kevin] Jebson. Anytime you make [30] plus saves you’ve done your job as a goalie, but I’ve got to give our team a little kick in the ass also at the same time because we had way too many really good chances that we just didn’t bear down and finish. That’s been one of our Achilles heels all year and that’s basically what was disappointing in the game, not so much that we didn’t work because we worked and we tried hard, but we just didn’t play with enough passion.”
“You’re always concerned about your goaltending, and that’s an area that we’re going to have to address one way or another in the next week or two,” Dempsey said.
“Damien has played very well for us, had a big win against Vernon and [was] a big part of that point against Penticton.”
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Kings need full roster playing
by Glen Gibbs of The Powell River Peak
"We don't have that blow-it-out, firepower, wide-open brand of hockey where we're going to shoot the lights out," he said, adding the Kings' keys to winning were to "chip away, work hard and play smart, and as in this game, we broke a team down."
"Our focus was garbage tonight and we had too many key guys take stupid, needless penalties," said irritated assistant coach Shane Lukinchuk, adding that the infractions were slashing, tripping, hooking, all stick infractions, which are the toughest to kill.
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"We don't have that blow-it-out, firepower, wide-open brand of hockey where we're going to shoot the lights out," he said, adding the Kings' keys to winning were to "chip away, work hard and play smart, and as in this game, we broke a team down."
"Our focus was garbage tonight and we had too many key guys take stupid, needless penalties," said irritated assistant coach Shane Lukinchuk, adding that the infractions were slashing, tripping, hooking, all stick infractions, which are the toughest to kill.
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Golden boys
by Harpreet Sidhu of the Penticton Western News
“That 6-1 loss to Russia people were doubting us and the choices our general manager and coaching staff made and to lose to Russia again was a big loss. It could have been disheartening but the team battled back and had a good game against Belarus.”
“It felt pretty good. I actually got cut from that league the USHL and their coach was the coach who cut me,” said Hextall.
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“That 6-1 loss to Russia people were doubting us and the choices our general manager and coaching staff made and to lose to Russia again was a big loss. It could have been disheartening but the team battled back and had a good game against Belarus.”
“It felt pretty good. I actually got cut from that league the USHL and their coach was the coach who cut me,” said Hextall.
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Vees split with Vipers
by Harpreet Sidhu of the Penticton Western News
“Part of my job is to motivate the guys to elevate their game. We weren’t going to win the game in Vernon with our AP players and I think that Alex Evin had a great game –– in the first 10 minutes he made some key saves for us and Kyle McMurphy who hadn’t scored in a while scored,” said Harbinson.
“They celebrated pretty hard when they knocked us off in their building,” said Harbinson. I think the desire from our hockey club is to get after them and have a better result after they beat us in their building. We’re just going to get back to business here and play our game.”
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“Part of my job is to motivate the guys to elevate their game. We weren’t going to win the game in Vernon with our AP players and I think that Alex Evin had a great game –– in the first 10 minutes he made some key saves for us and Kyle McMurphy who hadn’t scored in a while scored,” said Harbinson.
“They celebrated pretty hard when they knocked us off in their building,” said Harbinson. I think the desire from our hockey club is to get after them and have a better result after they beat us in their building. We’re just going to get back to business here and play our game.”
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Golden boy is back in the Orange and Black
by Michael Rhode of the Nanaimo Daily News
"He was a huge addition," said Rybalka, who coaches the Camrose Kodiaks of the AJHL. "He did a phenomenal job. When you come to a world championship, there's goal scorers and checkers and you might be asked to do something that you are not used to. We asked that line to be our shutdown line. They were physical, yet we knew all three of them could score because they've done it on their club teams.
"Teams weren't allowed to talk to you during the tournament, so hopefully I'll be getting a few calls here to line up a scholarship," said Goodman.
"There's been a few bites but no scholarship offers right now. I'm just being patient."
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"He was a huge addition," said Rybalka, who coaches the Camrose Kodiaks of the AJHL. "He did a phenomenal job. When you come to a world championship, there's goal scorers and checkers and you might be asked to do something that you are not used to. We asked that line to be our shutdown line. They were physical, yet we knew all three of them could score because they've done it on their club teams.
"Teams weren't allowed to talk to you during the tournament, so hopefully I'll be getting a few calls here to line up a scholarship," said Goodman.
"There's been a few bites but no scholarship offers right now. I'm just being patient."
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Cents embarassed in weekend losses
by Colin Oswin of the Merritt Herald
Merritt’s goaltending was exposed against both teams, and assistant coach Bill Birks says the Cents need their puck stoppers to step up and start winning some games.
“I don’t think our guys have confidence in our goaltending,” he says. “When we’re up 3-0, it’s like we’re still 0-0.”
The team is on an eight-game losing streak, including two overtime losses. The Cents have not won a game since they beat Prince George 5-3 on Oct. 25.
Ruud says the team had lost all confidence by the end of the first, and the game was a wash from there.
“We got down a couple goals, and we just gave up,” he says. “That’s pretty much what happened. I’m not going to sugar coat it.”
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Merritt’s goaltending was exposed against both teams, and assistant coach Bill Birks says the Cents need their puck stoppers to step up and start winning some games.
“I don’t think our guys have confidence in our goaltending,” he says. “When we’re up 3-0, it’s like we’re still 0-0.”
The team is on an eight-game losing streak, including two overtime losses. The Cents have not won a game since they beat Prince George 5-3 on Oct. 25.
Ruud says the team had lost all confidence by the end of the first, and the game was a wash from there.
“We got down a couple goals, and we just gave up,” he says. “That’s pretty much what happened. I’m not going to sugar coat it.”
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Zabotel leads Team Canada West to junior gold
by Colin Oswin of the Merritt Herald
Keegan Goodrich, director of player personnel with the Cents, says Zabotel demonstrated the opportunities available in Merritt to young players watching the game.
Zabotel racked up seven points over five games in the tournament, with three goals and four assists. The Merritt captain tied five other players for third in the points standings. Mike Connolly of Canada West led the tournament with 11 points, earning himself the Tournament MVP award, and Barry Almeida of Team USA came in second with nine.
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Keegan Goodrich, director of player personnel with the Cents, says Zabotel demonstrated the opportunities available in Merritt to young players watching the game.
Zabotel racked up seven points over five games in the tournament, with three goals and four assists. The Merritt captain tied five other players for third in the points standings. Mike Connolly of Canada West led the tournament with 11 points, earning himself the Tournament MVP award, and Barry Almeida of Team USA came in second with nine.
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Former player lands dream job
by Jamie Schaab of the Merritt Herald
He adds that as a player, your nerves settle down once the game gets underway. But that isn’t the case when coaching, he says.
Birks boasted a Merritt Centennials jersey for three years in the late 80s, when he played for the team as a forward.
The Centennials receive up to 25 applications each year for the assistant coaching position.
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He adds that as a player, your nerves settle down once the game gets underway. But that isn’t the case when coaching, he says.
Birks boasted a Merritt Centennials jersey for three years in the late 80s, when he played for the team as a forward.
The Centennials receive up to 25 applications each year for the assistant coaching position.
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Red hot Chiefs keep rolling
by Gary Ahuja of the Langley Times
And the Chiefs home-ice dominance continues, as the team is an impressive 11-1-0-1 at the Preston Centre.
The defenceman, who was second in the league in blue-line scoring before leaving for the world junior A challenge at the start of the month, ended up missing the elite tournament with a back injury.
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And the Chiefs home-ice dominance continues, as the team is an impressive 11-1-0-1 at the Preston Centre.
The defenceman, who was second in the league in blue-line scoring before leaving for the world junior A challenge at the start of the month, ended up missing the elite tournament with a back injury.
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Caps split with rival Clippers
by Don Bodger of the Cowichan News Leader and Pictorial
But the Clippers came right back the next night for their sixth straight win over the Caps at Cowichan Arena — three in last season’s playoffs and three already during the 2007-08 regular season.
Some fireworks spilled over from previous meetings at the end of the game. Caps’ forwards Karl Weberg and Josh Clare were both tabbed for instigating fights and defenceman Greg Brown received a gross misconduct for shooting the puck at the Nanaimo bench and will be receiving a suspension.
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But the Clippers came right back the next night for their sixth straight win over the Caps at Cowichan Arena — three in last season’s playoffs and three already during the 2007-08 regular season.
Some fireworks spilled over from previous meetings at the end of the game. Caps’ forwards Karl Weberg and Josh Clare were both tabbed for instigating fights and defenceman Greg Brown received a gross misconduct for shooting the puck at the Nanaimo bench and will be receiving a suspension.
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Express 2-1 on Interior road trip
by Tom Berridge of Burnaby Now
Kevin Jebson was in goal for both Express wins, stopping 27 and 34 shots respectively. Jebson also had 32 saves in Sunday's loss in Westside
Burnaby has won five of its last seven games.
Most notable was Burnaby's penalty killing, which allowed just two goals on 22 opportunities on the road swing.
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Kevin Jebson was in goal for both Express wins, stopping 27 and 34 shots respectively. Jebson also had 32 saves in Sunday's loss in Westside
Burnaby has won five of its last seven games.
Most notable was Burnaby's penalty killing, which allowed just two goals on 22 opportunities on the road swing.
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Tuesday, November 13, 2007
Reid's hat trick and Burnaby's physical play stop Spruce Kings
by Ted Clarke of the Prince George Citizen
Traded in the off-season from the Surrey Eagles to the Burnaby Express for defensive defenceman Ilan Cumberbirch, Reid made that deal look like the steal of the century Saturday night at the Coliseum.
Reid’s hat-trick left him with 20 goals in 21 games, second only to Hunter Bishop of the Vernon Vipers in league goal scoring.
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Traded in the off-season from the Surrey Eagles to the Burnaby Express for defensive defenceman Ilan Cumberbirch, Reid made that deal look like the steal of the century Saturday night at the Coliseum.
Reid’s hat-trick left him with 20 goals in 21 games, second only to Hunter Bishop of the Vernon Vipers in league goal scoring.
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Clippers setting the pace
by Michael Rhode of the Nanaimo Daily News
Not bad for a team that has less than half of the roster that won the league championship last season.
"We've definitely exceeded expectations with our start, with as many new faces in our uniform and the number of quality players in age, experience and talent that we turned over," said Bestwick.
"I don't know when the last time we had 16 wins after 22 games. It's a great achievement by a very young team."
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Not bad for a team that has less than half of the roster that won the league championship last season.
"We've definitely exceeded expectations with our start, with as many new faces in our uniform and the number of quality players in age, experience and talent that we turned over," said Bestwick.
"I don't know when the last time we had 16 wins after 22 games. It's a great achievement by a very young team."
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Sizzling hot Chiefs show lethal scoring touch
by Troy Landreville of the Langley Advance
The weekend wins extends the Chiefs' current unbeaten streak to seven games and just as importantly, elevates them into second place in the eight team BCHL Coastal Conference.
Langley's 122 goals are 27 better than the Coastal Conference's second best offensive club, the Surrey Eagles.
Lately, they've been pretty solid on the back end, hovering at 2.50 goals against per game through November.
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The weekend wins extends the Chiefs' current unbeaten streak to seven games and just as importantly, elevates them into second place in the eight team BCHL Coastal Conference.
Langley's 122 goals are 27 better than the Coastal Conference's second best offensive club, the Surrey Eagles.
Lately, they've been pretty solid on the back end, hovering at 2.50 goals against per game through November.
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Giants in a three-way tug of war for Penguins draft pick
by Steve Ewen of The Province
Word is that he's yet to qualify, although there is talk that Michigan Tech believes there are still avenues to do that. Pierro-Zabotel admitted that there's "another test" he could write, although he didn't get into specifics.
Pierro-Zabotel said that he'll decide "in the next few days" what he's going to do.
Kevin Epp, Pierro-Zabotel's family advisor, was at the Giants game Sunday versus the Kamloops Blazers and had a lengthy meeting with Vancouver general manager Scott Bonner.
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Word is that he's yet to qualify, although there is talk that Michigan Tech believes there are still avenues to do that. Pierro-Zabotel admitted that there's "another test" he could write, although he didn't get into specifics.
Pierro-Zabotel said that he'll decide "in the next few days" what he's going to do.
Kevin Epp, Pierro-Zabotel's family advisor, was at the Giants game Sunday versus the Kamloops Blazers and had a lengthy meeting with Vancouver general manager Scott Bonner.
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Great shot's back in his hometown
by Steve Ewen of The Province
"He's a game-breaker," said Clippers coach Bill Bestwick of the Nanaimo native. "His shot is as good as anybody's you'll see at this level.
"A.J. didn't want to come back looking like the hero. And he certainly wasn't about to take the number from another kid from Nanaimo."
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"He's a game-breaker," said Clippers coach Bill Bestwick of the Nanaimo native. "His shot is as good as anybody's you'll see at this level.
"A.J. didn't want to come back looking like the hero. And he certainly wasn't about to take the number from another kid from Nanaimo."
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Monday, November 12, 2007
Caple solid as Warriors derail Express
by David Trifunov of the Kelowna Daily Courier
Burnaby arrived on the Westside at 7 a.m. on Sunday, slept a couple of hours and reported for duty a couple of hours before game time. But the late night bus trip after a 5-3 win in Prince George didn‘t slow the Express. Campbell opened the scoring nine minutes into the first period on a power play.
The Warriors lost forward Pierre Girard (shoulder, 2-4 weeks) during Thursday‘s loss to Salmon Arm. He has six goals and 18 points in 22 games.
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Burnaby arrived on the Westside at 7 a.m. on Sunday, slept a couple of hours and reported for duty a couple of hours before game time. But the late night bus trip after a 5-3 win in Prince George didn‘t slow the Express. Campbell opened the scoring nine minutes into the first period on a power play.
The Warriors lost forward Pierre Girard (shoulder, 2-4 weeks) during Thursday‘s loss to Salmon Arm. He has six goals and 18 points in 22 games.
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Smoked out; Westside loses to Trail
by David Trifunov of the Kelowna Daily Courier
It was the Warriors‘ first regulation loss to a team below them in the conference standings. Westside coach Mark Howell said his club didn‘t respect the Smokies after a dominating first period.
“We got so full of ourselves after the first period,” he said. “When you‘ve got swelled heads, and think your great, the game will kick you on your butt so fast. That‘s what it did. . . . We didn‘t deserve to win tonight.”
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It was the Warriors‘ first regulation loss to a team below them in the conference standings. Westside coach Mark Howell said his club didn‘t respect the Smokies after a dominating first period.
“We got so full of ourselves after the first period,” he said. “When you‘ve got swelled heads, and think your great, the game will kick you on your butt so fast. That‘s what it did. . . . We didn‘t deserve to win tonight.”
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Eagles fly past Grizzlies
by Sharie Epp of the Victoria Times Colonist
Nunn fought off the defender, and somehow banged the puck behind Eagles goaltender Andrew Hammond, before crashing headlong into the boards.
"He's our best player, bar none," Penney said. "He comes to play every single night."
The final 10 minutes provided a wild finish and Victoria outshot Surrey 43-32 overall, but the Eagles hung on to their composure as well as the win.
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Nunn fought off the defender, and somehow banged the puck behind Eagles goaltender Andrew Hammond, before crashing headlong into the boards.
"He's our best player, bar none," Penney said. "He comes to play every single night."
The final 10 minutes provided a wild finish and Victoria outshot Surrey 43-32 overall, but the Eagles hung on to their composure as well as the win.
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Grizzlies' birthday boy helps out with hat trick
by Cleve Dheensaw of the Victoria Times Colonist
"Assists are more my game, and I'm far more a playmaker and set-up guy. But tonight I saw the shots opening up for me and I took them," added Nunn, who will play in the NCAA at Minnesota State-Mankato next season.
"We have not played well at home, and it's been a focus of ours to be a better home team -- we're only about .500 when we play here -- and with it being Parents Night, we all worked hard to make that happen," said Nunn.
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"Assists are more my game, and I'm far more a playmaker and set-up guy. But tonight I saw the shots opening up for me and I took them," added Nunn, who will play in the NCAA at Minnesota State-Mankato next season.
"We have not played well at home, and it's been a focus of ours to be a better home team -- we're only about .500 when we play here -- and with it being Parents Night, we all worked hard to make that happen," said Nunn.
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Grizzlies captain leads by example
by Sharie Epp of the Victoria Times Colonist
"He tried to do everything himself early on," Grizzlies coach Jackson Penney said about Benn's first few games of the season. "He changed his game a little bit ... he started moving the puck a lot more."
Victoria is near the top of the league in defence, with a 3.10 goals-against average, and Benn is a big part of that success.
Penney considers Benn, an all-star last season, to be one of the top defencemen in the league again this year.
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"He tried to do everything himself early on," Grizzlies coach Jackson Penney said about Benn's first few games of the season. "He changed his game a little bit ... he started moving the puck a lot more."
Victoria is near the top of the league in defence, with a 3.10 goals-against average, and Benn is a big part of that success.
Penney considers Benn, an all-star last season, to be one of the top defencemen in the league again this year.
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Huskies high on Witt
by Kevin Mitchell of the Vernon Morning Star
Witt, a soft-spoken Spokane product, has secured a scholarship with the Michigan Tech Huskies in Houghton for the 2009-10 NCAA season.
The slick middleman, who has 3-5-8 heading into game 22 tonight in Penticton, went on flydowns to Michigan Tech and Alaska-Anchorage.
“I liked the facilities there (Michigan) more, especially the campus (in a town of 7,000 rated one of the 100 Best Small Towns in America) I also liked the coaching staff.”
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Witt, a soft-spoken Spokane product, has secured a scholarship with the Michigan Tech Huskies in Houghton for the 2009-10 NCAA season.
The slick middleman, who has 3-5-8 heading into game 22 tonight in Penticton, went on flydowns to Michigan Tech and Alaska-Anchorage.
“I liked the facilities there (Michigan) more, especially the campus (in a town of 7,000 rated one of the 100 Best Small Towns in America) I also liked the coaching staff.”
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Vipers shut off Vees
by Staff of the Vernon Morning Star
“Our guys stuck to the game-plan,” said Viper assistant coach Colin O’Hara. “They played straight north-south hockey, not east-west, which you have to do in a small rink like Penticton’s. They got pucks deep and played the corners well. They kept it simple.”
“You know what you’re getting with Brock every night, and that’s hard work,” said O’Hara. “Work ethic like that is hard to find.”
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“Our guys stuck to the game-plan,” said Viper assistant coach Colin O’Hara. “They played straight north-south hockey, not east-west, which you have to do in a small rink like Penticton’s. They got pucks deep and played the corners well. They kept it simple.”
“You know what you’re getting with Brock every night, and that’s hard work,” said O’Hara. “Work ethic like that is hard to find.”
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Smokies look to build on success
by Guy Bertrand of the Trail Times
The club is coming off back-to-back road wins last weekend and there's actually some joy emanating from first-year head coach Jim Ingram.
"I'm trying to remain optimistic," said Ingram on Wednesday. "You want to see some consistency and in the last four games we picked up seven of eight points.
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The club is coming off back-to-back road wins last weekend and there's actually some joy emanating from first-year head coach Jim Ingram.
"I'm trying to remain optimistic," said Ingram on Wednesday. "You want to see some consistency and in the last four games we picked up seven of eight points.
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Millionaires tally record-breaking ninth win
by Rachel Stern of the Quesnel Cariboo Observer
Millionaires head coach Tom Bohmer said Mills ninth win of the season was a culmination of the process they started last year and 20 games ago.
“Tonight was probably the best 60 minute effort we’ve played in the last two years."
“It’s important for fans and people to understand we are trying the best we can to put a competitive team and program on the ice and our organization really needs our community’s support,” Bohmer said.
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Millionaires head coach Tom Bohmer said Mills ninth win of the season was a culmination of the process they started last year and 20 games ago.
“Tonight was probably the best 60 minute effort we’ve played in the last two years."
“It’s important for fans and people to understand we are trying the best we can to put a competitive team and program on the ice and our organization really needs our community’s support,” Bohmer said.
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Kings take Vees to OT
by Alistair McInnis of the Prince George Free Press
De Vries, who finished with a goal and two assists, described his tying goal this way: “I was so tired and the puck got rimmed around. [The Vees] passed it out to Fraser, they kind of gave it away to him, and I ended up floating behind the net where I shouldn’t be. But then I went back to the front of the net, and [Fraser’s] pass cross ice came right out in front, I just kind of backhand tipped it through the five-hole [of Penticton goalie Bryan Mountain].”
Surrendering a pair of tying goals late in the game didn’t sit well with Penticton head coach Fred Harbinson.
“We gave away a point to them,” he said. “We were fortunate to get two [points] but you know what, we gave up two late goals. With our hockey club we’re trying to pride ourselves on solid defence and four goals a game against is not what we’re looking for here.”
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De Vries, who finished with a goal and two assists, described his tying goal this way: “I was so tired and the puck got rimmed around. [The Vees] passed it out to Fraser, they kind of gave it away to him, and I ended up floating behind the net where I shouldn’t be. But then I went back to the front of the net, and [Fraser’s] pass cross ice came right out in front, I just kind of backhand tipped it through the five-hole [of Penticton goalie Bryan Mountain].”
Surrendering a pair of tying goals late in the game didn’t sit well with Penticton head coach Fred Harbinson.
“We gave away a point to them,” he said. “We were fortunate to get two [points] but you know what, we gave up two late goals. With our hockey club we’re trying to pride ourselves on solid defence and four goals a game against is not what we’re looking for here.”
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DeVries discovering his offensive touch
by Ted Clarke of the Prince George Citizen
The 20-year-old Kings captain picked up a goal and five assists in the Kings’ last three games, his best offensive outburst this season.
“Our energy has always been there -- we’re probably one of the most in-shape teams in the league,” deVries said.
“It’s good for Jeff to play at that calibre and that should help him for when he gets back here,” said deVries. “The speed of the game is a little bit slower (in the BCHL). I noticed more the step up in play rather than the step down when I came back.”
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The 20-year-old Kings captain picked up a goal and five assists in the Kings’ last three games, his best offensive outburst this season.
“Our energy has always been there -- we’re probably one of the most in-shape teams in the league,” deVries said.
“It’s good for Jeff to play at that calibre and that should help him for when he gets back here,” said deVries. “The speed of the game is a little bit slower (in the BCHL). I noticed more the step up in play rather than the step down when I came back.”
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Kings find life on road tough
by Glen Gibbs of The Powell River Peak
Evan Karambelas came in to relieve Chris Rawlings and he looked sharp even as the Kings attempted to overcome the deficit.
Friday night, Kings met the Surrey Eagles, and because of his play from the previous game, Karambelas remained in the net.
Losing two out of three was very disappointing, but Kings did a lot of good things on the trip. "In all three games we outshot each team, and I think out of the nine periods we played this trip, we maybe only took one off--the first one in Langley," assistant coach Shane Lukinchuk said.
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Evan Karambelas came in to relieve Chris Rawlings and he looked sharp even as the Kings attempted to overcome the deficit.
Friday night, Kings met the Surrey Eagles, and because of his play from the previous game, Karambelas remained in the net.
Losing two out of three was very disappointing, but Kings did a lot of good things on the trip. "In all three games we outshot each team, and I think out of the nine periods we played this trip, we maybe only took one off--the first one in Langley," assistant coach Shane Lukinchuk said.
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Vees vowing to keep eyes open versus Vernon Vipers
by David Crompton of the Penticton Herald
After arriving home Thursday at 5 a.m. from their final far-north road trip of the season, all hands were on deck eight hours later as the Penticton Valley First Vees held an optional practice.
“We‘re back home where we love to play, we get a good night‘s sleep and come out and work our tails off for 60 minutes,” said Smith, who now leads the team in goal with 14 and is second in points with 28. “A lot of people thought we‘d only win two games without (Hextall, Dalpe and Nill) but we‘ve won three of four already and we‘ve got a chance to make it five out of six. We‘ll be ready.”
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After arriving home Thursday at 5 a.m. from their final far-north road trip of the season, all hands were on deck eight hours later as the Penticton Valley First Vees held an optional practice.
“We‘re back home where we love to play, we get a good night‘s sleep and come out and work our tails off for 60 minutes,” said Smith, who now leads the team in goal with 14 and is second in points with 28. “A lot of people thought we‘d only win two games without (Hextall, Dalpe and Nill) but we‘ve won three of four already and we‘ve got a chance to make it five out of six. We‘ll be ready.”
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Adventures with Team West
by Harpreet Sidhu of the Penticton Western News
“I don’t know if I was expecting it. I knew I would be looked at as a leader because I’m one of the older guys on the team. When I was given the ‘A’ it was real special. It just shows the coaches and general manager’s trust in me,” said Hextall.
“They are doing really well. Dalpe is such a skilled kid. Nill’s the kind of kid who has a positive attitude and he’s kid who works really hard,” said Hextall.
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“I don’t know if I was expecting it. I knew I would be looked at as a leader because I’m one of the older guys on the team. When I was given the ‘A’ it was real special. It just shows the coaches and general manager’s trust in me,” said Hextall.
“They are doing really well. Dalpe is such a skilled kid. Nill’s the kind of kid who has a positive attitude and he’s kid who works really hard,” said Hextall.
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For love of the game
by Greg Sakaki of the Nanaimo News Bulletin
“This is the best mid-season addition that we’ve ever been able to be a part of,” said Bestwick. “And by no management of ours.”
Tired of being a healthy scratch, Gale decided to call his old junior A coach for advice.
Bestwick advised the Nanaimoite to get all the necessary information and think things through.
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“This is the best mid-season addition that we’ve ever been able to be a part of,” said Bestwick. “And by no management of ours.”
Tired of being a healthy scratch, Gale decided to call his old junior A coach for advice.
Bestwick advised the Nanaimoite to get all the necessary information and think things through.
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Chiefs continue to roll
by Gary Ahuja of the Langley Times
Taylor Stefishen, who now has 10 points in his past four games, and Smith with his hat trick goal (on the power play) completed the scoring.
Kurt Jory made 27 saves in Wednesday’s victory and has posted solid numbers since coming to the BCHL — 4-1, 3.20 goals against average and a .892 save percentage.
“We have to learn to overcome that because I think we are going to be a championship team,” Smith said.
He also said that now that the team is winning (6-2-0-2 in their past 10) the Chiefs are showing what kind of team they can be.
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Taylor Stefishen, who now has 10 points in his past four games, and Smith with his hat trick goal (on the power play) completed the scoring.
Kurt Jory made 27 saves in Wednesday’s victory and has posted solid numbers since coming to the BCHL — 4-1, 3.20 goals against average and a .892 save percentage.
“We have to learn to overcome that because I think we are going to be a championship team,” Smith said.
He also said that now that the team is winning (6-2-0-2 in their past 10) the Chiefs are showing what kind of team they can be.
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Victory puts Chiefs up with Eagles
by Jhim Burwell of the Langley Advance
Wolff credits improved teamwork with the recent success the Chiefs have enjoyed; they've won six of the last eight games. One of those losses was in overtime, and one of the wins was a 5-2 decision against first-place Nanaimo.
"We knew we had a solid offence, but now we're playing as a team moreso than playing for ourselves."
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Wolff credits improved teamwork with the recent success the Chiefs have enjoyed; they've won six of the last eight games. One of those losses was in overtime, and one of the wins was a 5-2 decision against first-place Nanaimo.
"We knew we had a solid offence, but now we're playing as a team moreso than playing for ourselves."
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Express staying put for now
by Tom Berridge of Burnaby Now
"They are absolutely not true," said Delesalle Wednesday. "We have had two or three enquiries lately, one serious. But this morning we pulled everything off the table at this time."
"It's getting pretty obvious to us Burnaby does not want a team," Delesalle said, adding the ownership group has been approached by outside municipalities regarding the status of the team. He did not name the cities.
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"They are absolutely not true," said Delesalle Wednesday. "We have had two or three enquiries lately, one serious. But this morning we pulled everything off the table at this time."
"It's getting pretty obvious to us Burnaby does not want a team," Delesalle said, adding the ownership group has been approached by outside municipalities regarding the status of the team. He did not name the cities.
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Rumour of Express sale denied by club co-owner
by Grant Granger of the Burnaby NewsLeader
“There was a group that was talking to us and it came to nothing,” said Lambie, declining to say who they were. “The talks were very preliminary, in spite of what the rumour mill wanted to tell you.”
The Express is in the third year of a five-year lease with the City of Burnaby for Bill Copeland Arena.
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“There was a group that was talking to us and it came to nothing,” said Lambie, declining to say who they were. “The talks were very preliminary, in spite of what the rumour mill wanted to tell you.”
The Express is in the third year of a five-year lease with the City of Burnaby for Bill Copeland Arena.
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Friday, November 9, 2007
Silverbacks Recap
It was simply a gutsy effort put forth by the entire Silverbacks hockey club in their 4-3 overtime victory over the Warriors. Playing with only 11 forwards, which included an AP, the 'Backs stuck to the game plan and continued to grind their way to the win. Like he did last year Randy Hanagan stepped up with players away at the World Junior "A" Challenge and scored his second goal of the game in overtime for the winner. On the back end Michael Glaciar and Matt Grassi, the twin towers, were phenomenal and logged at least 25 minutes a piece. Graeme Gordon had another solid performance in goal with some huge saves early in the first period and then stopping a penalty shot with the game tied and just over a minute left to play in regulation. Salmon Arm was also awarded two penalty shots on which they didn't score either. The three penalty shots in one game marked a first experience for many fans in attendance including myself.
KIPP FOLLOWS THE LEAD AND LEADS TO BE FOLLOWED
by Jeff Wallace
“You basically have to want to win more than the other team, trust your teammates, and trust that the coaches know what they’re talking about,” said the rearguard for Team West.
When the Team West players visited local Trail elementary schools, Kipp was picked out by some students.
“They knew my name when I told them and that is pretty special,” said Kipp.
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“You basically have to want to win more than the other team, trust your teammates, and trust that the coaches know what they’re talking about,” said the rearguard for Team West.
When the Team West players visited local Trail elementary schools, Kipp was picked out by some students.
“They knew my name when I told them and that is pretty special,” said Kipp.
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