Press Release
The future is beyond bright for the Midwest Junior Hockey League.
We have nine teams firmly in place for the 2013-14 season, all with solid ownership groups, coaching staffs, player talent pools and hungry fan bases.
Recently, we have added teams in the hockey-rich Michigan towns of Marquette, Alpena and Traverse City, joining teams already in place in Farmington Hills, Berkley, Holland, Sault Ste. Marie, Allen Park and Bloomington, Ill.
Marquette (Lakeview Arena), Alpena (Northern Lights Arena), Soo (Big Bear Arena) and Traverse City (Centre ICE Arena) play in what I consider to be four of the best rinks in all of Michigan, maybe in all of the Midwest. All four arenas have previously housed franchises from the North American Hockey League and for our league to be able to secure these venues just goes to show you the direction the league is heading.
I am very proud to be leading the MWJHL and based on what I saw at the AAU/UHU national tournament this past April in Las Vegas, we can compete and handle ourselves with some of the best players in the country from the other AAU-level leagues.
We continue to move players to NCAA and ACHA college programs and many players have been heavily scouted and recruited by higher-level junior teams for this coming season.
This is an exciting time to be part of the MWJHL and in looking at the successful season we all experienced in 2012-13, we will raise the bar once more this fall and will build on last season. We have a dedicated and loyal league staff in place and the stability of our nine teams has never been better.
We are moving onward, upward and forward. The MWJHL has proved itself to be a viable place to develop players and will continue that trend.
Let’s drop the puck!
Yours in hockey,
Scott Gardiner
Commissioner, MWJHL
(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)
Saturday, May 25, 2013
Eagles Trade Three, Acquire One
Press Release
Surrey, BC - On Thursday, the Surrey Eagles announced that three players have been traded as future considerations, completing deals that were made during the BCHL’s regular season. Forward Demico Hannoun and defenceman Jordan Klimek are on their way to the Vernon Vipers as part of the move that brought Adam Tambellini to Surrey while Vernon forward Michael Roberts will join the Eagles. Meanwhile, forward Kevan Kilistoff is off to the Langley Rivermen, completing the multi-team trade that saw the Eagles pick up Troy Paterson from Cowichan Valley.
"It is a tough day as a coach and GM when you have to part with three quality young men that all have bright futures in the game of hockey," said Eagles Head Coach and General Manager Matt Erhart. "In order for the Eagles to push through and capture the Fred Page and Western Canada Cups, we felt that the moves were necessary at the time the trades were made."
Roberts joins the Eagles after posting four goals and six assists in 53 games in his rookie season with the Vipers last year. The 18-year-old Vernon native spent the 2011-2012 season with the Revelstoke Grizzlies of the KIJHL where he scored over a point per game.
Hannoun heads to the Vipers after two seasons with the Eagles. In his time in Surrey, the 17-year-old tallied 59 points in 91 regular season games. The North Delta product was a big part of Surrey’s run to the semi-final at the RBC Cup, netting nine goals and 14 assists in 26 post-season games. Hannoun has committed to the Michigan Tech Huskies for the 2014-2015 season.
Klimek is also off to Vernon after completing his rookie season in Surrey. The Langley native had six goals and 17 assists in 52 regular season games -- including four game winning goals. The 17-year-old had only one goal in the post-season, but it was a big one as he found the back of the net in the final of the Western Canada Cup against the Brooks Bandits. Klimek has committed to the Northern Michigan Wildcats for the 2014-2015 season.
Kilistoff will have a chance to play for his hometown team as he’ll make the short trip to Langley. An 18-year-old BCHL rookie, Kilistoff had 17 points in 52 games in the regular season. His biggest goal of the playoffs came when he scored the overtime winner in Game 5 of the Fred Page Cup Final against the Penticton Vees to give Surrey a 3-2 lead in the series.
The Eagles would like to thank Hannoun, Klimek and Kilistoff for their time spent with the organization and wish them all the best in the future.
(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)
Surrey, BC - On Thursday, the Surrey Eagles announced that three players have been traded as future considerations, completing deals that were made during the BCHL’s regular season. Forward Demico Hannoun and defenceman Jordan Klimek are on their way to the Vernon Vipers as part of the move that brought Adam Tambellini to Surrey while Vernon forward Michael Roberts will join the Eagles. Meanwhile, forward Kevan Kilistoff is off to the Langley Rivermen, completing the multi-team trade that saw the Eagles pick up Troy Paterson from Cowichan Valley.
"It is a tough day as a coach and GM when you have to part with three quality young men that all have bright futures in the game of hockey," said Eagles Head Coach and General Manager Matt Erhart. "In order for the Eagles to push through and capture the Fred Page and Western Canada Cups, we felt that the moves were necessary at the time the trades were made."
Roberts joins the Eagles after posting four goals and six assists in 53 games in his rookie season with the Vipers last year. The 18-year-old Vernon native spent the 2011-2012 season with the Revelstoke Grizzlies of the KIJHL where he scored over a point per game.
Hannoun heads to the Vipers after two seasons with the Eagles. In his time in Surrey, the 17-year-old tallied 59 points in 91 regular season games. The North Delta product was a big part of Surrey’s run to the semi-final at the RBC Cup, netting nine goals and 14 assists in 26 post-season games. Hannoun has committed to the Michigan Tech Huskies for the 2014-2015 season.
Klimek is also off to Vernon after completing his rookie season in Surrey. The Langley native had six goals and 17 assists in 52 regular season games -- including four game winning goals. The 17-year-old had only one goal in the post-season, but it was a big one as he found the back of the net in the final of the Western Canada Cup against the Brooks Bandits. Klimek has committed to the Northern Michigan Wildcats for the 2014-2015 season.
Kilistoff will have a chance to play for his hometown team as he’ll make the short trip to Langley. An 18-year-old BCHL rookie, Kilistoff had 17 points in 52 games in the regular season. His biggest goal of the playoffs came when he scored the overtime winner in Game 5 of the Fred Page Cup Final against the Penticton Vees to give Surrey a 3-2 lead in the series.
The Eagles would like to thank Hannoun, Klimek and Kilistoff for their time spent with the organization and wish them all the best in the future.
(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)
Hounds 18U defenseman Roach signs NAHL tender
Press Release
The West Michigan Hounds of the North American Prospects Hockey League (NAPHL) are pleased to announce that 18U defenseman Ted Roach has signed an NAHL tender with the Kenai River Brown Bears.
Roach, 17, was one of the solid, defensive defensemen on the Hounds 18U team which qualified for the Gold Division playoffs as one of the top eight teams in the NAPHL’s 18U Division. The native of Huntertown, Indiana, played in all 22 regular season games for the Hounds and all four playoff games this past season.
Roach (5’10/160) recorded four points during the regular season and an additional point in the NAPHL Championship series. In total he played in 66 games throughout the year and had 14 points (3 goals, 11 assists).
Roach is the third West Michigan Hounds 18U player this season to sign an NAHL tender joining Colin Finkhouse (Johnstown) and Brandon Wolfe (Michigan).
(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)
The West Michigan Hounds of the North American Prospects Hockey League (NAPHL) are pleased to announce that 18U defenseman Ted Roach has signed an NAHL tender with the Kenai River Brown Bears.
Roach, 17, was one of the solid, defensive defensemen on the Hounds 18U team which qualified for the Gold Division playoffs as one of the top eight teams in the NAPHL’s 18U Division. The native of Huntertown, Indiana, played in all 22 regular season games for the Hounds and all four playoff games this past season.
Roach (5’10/160) recorded four points during the regular season and an additional point in the NAPHL Championship series. In total he played in 66 games throughout the year and had 14 points (3 goals, 11 assists).
Roach is the third West Michigan Hounds 18U player this season to sign an NAHL tender joining Colin Finkhouse (Johnstown) and Brandon Wolfe (Michigan).
(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)
WINTERHAWKS ADVANCE TO MEMORIAL CUP FINAL
Press Release
SASKATOON, SK – The Portland Winterhawks will play for the MasterCard Memorial Cup on Sunday, having edged the London Knights 2-1 in the semi-final game of the tournament on Friday night at Credit Union Centre in Saskatoon, SK.
A third-period goal from Ty Rattie and the brilliant play of goaltender Mac Carruth carried the Hawks past the OHL Champion Knights in what was a hard-fought, intense and competitive contest, and into Sunday’s final where they will face the QMJHL Champion Halifax Mooseheads.
“That was a tough game tonight,” said Winterhawks’ head coach Travis Green. “That’s a very impressive team that we beat tonight.”
Carruth, a 20-year-old from Shorewood, MN, turned in a masterful performance, stopping 34 of 35 shots he faced, including making several outstanding saves over the final few minutes of the third period as London poured on the pressure.
“As a team, we’ve had big games in the past, and that’s what we draw from,” said Carruth, deflecting praise to his team mates. “We got off to a slow start but the boys played well late in the game, and as the game wore on, we were the better team.”
Green, though, delivered the highly-deserved praise on his goaltender’s performance in their most important game of the season.
“I thought it was his best game of the tournament, obviously,” said Green. “Just a great performance by the guy who we’ve leaned on for a long time now, which doesn’t surprise us, but he sure came up big for us tonight.”
Rattie, meanwhile, provided the clutch goal the Winterhawks needed to break a 1-1 stalemate 8:32 into the third period. The 19-year-old St. Louis Blues prospect circled out to the slot from the wall and wired a perfect wrist shot that went into the top left corner over Patterson’s shoulder for his tournament-leading fifth goal.
“He’s unbelievable, and in the playoffs he is lights out…just look at his record,” said Carruth of Rattie’s penchant for clutch performances. “He competes for not a very big guy, and he played the game the right way.”
The Knights did nearly everything they needed to do to shut down the Winterhawks and give themselves a chance to win. In the end, it was a great shot by a star sniper and the outstanding saves of the Hawks’ netminder that ended the Knights’ season.
“I can’t say enough about the players on this team, and they gave it right to the end,” said London head coach Dale Hunter, whose team opened the scoring with Max Domi’s power play marker 12:43 into the second period. “Rattie made a great shot, and their goaltender made some big saves at the end of the game.”
“I thought our guys did a great job of battling all through the tournament, and we had another great game tonight,” said Knights’ captain Scott Harrington of the team’s effort. “To lose 2-1 is heartbreaking, but that’s the way it goes.”
Tyler Wotherspoon had the other goal for the Winterhawks, tying the game up at 1-1 just 2:08 after Domi’s opening goal.
Knights’ netminder Jake Patterson enjoyed a strong outing, stopping 32 of 34 shots in the loss.
The Winterhawks now set their sights on Sunday’s rematch versus the Halifax Mooseheads. The Hawks’ lone loss in the tournament came with a 7-4 defeat to the Mooseheads last Saturday.
“We have one more 60-minute game left for all the marbles,” said Rattie. “This is what we’ve wanted right from the start of the season, and now the top two teams in the CHL are going to go head-to-head in the final.”
(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)
SASKATOON, SK – The Portland Winterhawks will play for the MasterCard Memorial Cup on Sunday, having edged the London Knights 2-1 in the semi-final game of the tournament on Friday night at Credit Union Centre in Saskatoon, SK.
A third-period goal from Ty Rattie and the brilliant play of goaltender Mac Carruth carried the Hawks past the OHL Champion Knights in what was a hard-fought, intense and competitive contest, and into Sunday’s final where they will face the QMJHL Champion Halifax Mooseheads.
“That was a tough game tonight,” said Winterhawks’ head coach Travis Green. “That’s a very impressive team that we beat tonight.”
Carruth, a 20-year-old from Shorewood, MN, turned in a masterful performance, stopping 34 of 35 shots he faced, including making several outstanding saves over the final few minutes of the third period as London poured on the pressure.
“As a team, we’ve had big games in the past, and that’s what we draw from,” said Carruth, deflecting praise to his team mates. “We got off to a slow start but the boys played well late in the game, and as the game wore on, we were the better team.”
Green, though, delivered the highly-deserved praise on his goaltender’s performance in their most important game of the season.
“I thought it was his best game of the tournament, obviously,” said Green. “Just a great performance by the guy who we’ve leaned on for a long time now, which doesn’t surprise us, but he sure came up big for us tonight.”
Rattie, meanwhile, provided the clutch goal the Winterhawks needed to break a 1-1 stalemate 8:32 into the third period. The 19-year-old St. Louis Blues prospect circled out to the slot from the wall and wired a perfect wrist shot that went into the top left corner over Patterson’s shoulder for his tournament-leading fifth goal.
“He’s unbelievable, and in the playoffs he is lights out…just look at his record,” said Carruth of Rattie’s penchant for clutch performances. “He competes for not a very big guy, and he played the game the right way.”
The Knights did nearly everything they needed to do to shut down the Winterhawks and give themselves a chance to win. In the end, it was a great shot by a star sniper and the outstanding saves of the Hawks’ netminder that ended the Knights’ season.
“I can’t say enough about the players on this team, and they gave it right to the end,” said London head coach Dale Hunter, whose team opened the scoring with Max Domi’s power play marker 12:43 into the second period. “Rattie made a great shot, and their goaltender made some big saves at the end of the game.”
“I thought our guys did a great job of battling all through the tournament, and we had another great game tonight,” said Knights’ captain Scott Harrington of the team’s effort. “To lose 2-1 is heartbreaking, but that’s the way it goes.”
Tyler Wotherspoon had the other goal for the Winterhawks, tying the game up at 1-1 just 2:08 after Domi’s opening goal.
Knights’ netminder Jake Patterson enjoyed a strong outing, stopping 32 of 34 shots in the loss.
The Winterhawks now set their sights on Sunday’s rematch versus the Halifax Mooseheads. The Hawks’ lone loss in the tournament came with a 7-4 defeat to the Mooseheads last Saturday.
“We have one more 60-minute game left for all the marbles,” said Rattie. “This is what we’ve wanted right from the start of the season, and now the top two teams in the CHL are going to go head-to-head in the final.”
(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)
Another coaching change in Lethbridge
Press Release
Lethbridge, AB – The Lethbridge Hurricanes announced today Associate Coach Matt Kabayama will not return next season.
The announcement of Kabayama is the most recent in a number of off-season changes that have taken place. In March, the team announced General Manager/Head Coach Rich Preston was relieved of his duties as the team decided to move in a different direction.
Kabayama was an Assistant Coach with the Hurricanes for three seasons before being promoted to the position of Associate Coach in the summer of 2009. The product of Foremost, AB played his junior hockey with the Medicine Hat Tigers and spent nearly 11 years in the Japanese Pro League as a player/coach before signing with the Hurricanes as an Assistant Coach in 2006. In 2008-09, he won his first WHL games as a Head Coach notching a 2-2-1-0 record while stepping in due to a coach’s suspension.
Lethbridge Hurricanes General Manager Brad Robson thanks Kabayama for his tireless work and commitment to the Hurricanes both on and off the ice and wishes him the best in his future endeavors.
There is no immediate word on the future of Assistant/Goalie Coach Chris Chisamore.
(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)
Lethbridge, AB – The Lethbridge Hurricanes announced today Associate Coach Matt Kabayama will not return next season.
The announcement of Kabayama is the most recent in a number of off-season changes that have taken place. In March, the team announced General Manager/Head Coach Rich Preston was relieved of his duties as the team decided to move in a different direction.
Kabayama was an Assistant Coach with the Hurricanes for three seasons before being promoted to the position of Associate Coach in the summer of 2009. The product of Foremost, AB played his junior hockey with the Medicine Hat Tigers and spent nearly 11 years in the Japanese Pro League as a player/coach before signing with the Hurricanes as an Assistant Coach in 2006. In 2008-09, he won his first WHL games as a Head Coach notching a 2-2-1-0 record while stepping in due to a coach’s suspension.
Lethbridge Hurricanes General Manager Brad Robson thanks Kabayama for his tireless work and commitment to the Hurricanes both on and off the ice and wishes him the best in his future endeavors.
There is no immediate word on the future of Assistant/Goalie Coach Chris Chisamore.
(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)
Quad City Jr. Flames to be renamed the Wisconsin Whalers
Press Release
The North American 3 Hockey League (NA3HL) has announced that the Quad City Jr. Flames have renamed their team to the Wisconsin Whalers. The new name announcement comes after the team was granted approval earlier this month by the NA3HL Board of Governors and the USA Hockey Junior Council to relocate to Madison, Wisconsin for the 2013-14 season.
The Whalers will be based out of Hartmeyer Ice Arena in Madison, Wisconsin. For the past nine seasons, the team has played their games at the River’s Edge in Davenport, Iowa. Six of those years were played as the Quad City Jr. Flames and three years previous to that as the Quad City Express.
“We thought a lot about a team name that would have a nice ring and flow to it and also be able to establish a nice hockey tradition and we thought the Wisconsin Whalers did both,” said Whalers Governor and Head Coach Tom McDermott. “We are excited to be at our new home and there is a renewed sense of purpose and desire to make it a long-term success on and off the ice We want to represent the NA3HL well as its only member from the state of Wisconsin.”
The Whalers logo is highlighted by a navy blue, Vegas gold and white color scheme. The name ‘Wisconsin Whalers’ runs across the bottom while a single ‘W’ and whale tail sit above the name. Tryouts for the Whalers begin the weekend of August 3rd.
The Whalers new website www.wisconsinwhalers.com is expected to be up and running in the near future.
(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)
The North American 3 Hockey League (NA3HL) has announced that the Quad City Jr. Flames have renamed their team to the Wisconsin Whalers. The new name announcement comes after the team was granted approval earlier this month by the NA3HL Board of Governors and the USA Hockey Junior Council to relocate to Madison, Wisconsin for the 2013-14 season.
The Whalers will be based out of Hartmeyer Ice Arena in Madison, Wisconsin. For the past nine seasons, the team has played their games at the River’s Edge in Davenport, Iowa. Six of those years were played as the Quad City Jr. Flames and three years previous to that as the Quad City Express.
“We thought a lot about a team name that would have a nice ring and flow to it and also be able to establish a nice hockey tradition and we thought the Wisconsin Whalers did both,” said Whalers Governor and Head Coach Tom McDermott. “We are excited to be at our new home and there is a renewed sense of purpose and desire to make it a long-term success on and off the ice We want to represent the NA3HL well as its only member from the state of Wisconsin.”
The Whalers logo is highlighted by a navy blue, Vegas gold and white color scheme. The name ‘Wisconsin Whalers’ runs across the bottom while a single ‘W’ and whale tail sit above the name. Tryouts for the Whalers begin the weekend of August 3rd.
The Whalers new website www.wisconsinwhalers.com is expected to be up and running in the near future.
(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)
Friday, May 24, 2013
Musketeers Affiliate Meirs Moore Commits to RPI for 2014
Press Release
Sioux City, IA. - The Sioux City Musketeers announced today that affiliate player Meirs Moore has committed to play collegiality at the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute beginning in the 2014-15 season.
The Duluth, Minnesota native made his debut as a Musketeer on November 10th, 2012 in the Tyson Events Center during the teams annual Military Appreciation Night game against Waterloo.
He returned to the Musketeers blue line in late March after completing his senior season at Duluth East High School, where he put up 49 points in 31 games for the Greyhounds. He was a +5 in 9 games played during the 2012-2013 USHL season.
Musketeer coaching staff were pleased with the announcement, and . “As an organization we are obviously very proud and excited for Meirs. He will be in a great place at RPI.” stated Assistant Coach Keith Paulsen. “Seth Appert has done a great job with the RPI organization, and Meirs will be a great fit for Coach Appert and his team.”
Assistant coach Mark Abalan weighed in on Moore's abilities as a player "Meirs is a smart puck moving defenseman who has great offensive instincts and looks to dictate the game from the back end. He always has a positive impact on the game for his team.“
Executive Vice President Rich Zaber was thrilled as well. “We're always excited when our players move on to the next level. It's just one more part of what makes coming to a Musketeers game fun. Fans love to follow players while they are here, as well as when they move on to the next level. We definitely have a unique opportunity for Sioux City residents to experience tomorrows college and professional hockey athletes, right here today. In Sioux City.”
(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)
Sioux City, IA. - The Sioux City Musketeers announced today that affiliate player Meirs Moore has committed to play collegiality at the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute beginning in the 2014-15 season.
The Duluth, Minnesota native made his debut as a Musketeer on November 10th, 2012 in the Tyson Events Center during the teams annual Military Appreciation Night game against Waterloo.
He returned to the Musketeers blue line in late March after completing his senior season at Duluth East High School, where he put up 49 points in 31 games for the Greyhounds. He was a +5 in 9 games played during the 2012-2013 USHL season.
Musketeer coaching staff were pleased with the announcement, and . “As an organization we are obviously very proud and excited for Meirs. He will be in a great place at RPI.” stated Assistant Coach Keith Paulsen. “Seth Appert has done a great job with the RPI organization, and Meirs will be a great fit for Coach Appert and his team.”
Assistant coach Mark Abalan weighed in on Moore's abilities as a player "Meirs is a smart puck moving defenseman who has great offensive instincts and looks to dictate the game from the back end. He always has a positive impact on the game for his team.“
Executive Vice President Rich Zaber was thrilled as well. “We're always excited when our players move on to the next level. It's just one more part of what makes coming to a Musketeers game fun. Fans love to follow players while they are here, as well as when they move on to the next level. We definitely have a unique opportunity for Sioux City residents to experience tomorrows college and professional hockey athletes, right here today. In Sioux City.”
(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)
Mike Lee Commits to University of Vermont
Press Release
Congratulations to Mike Lee on his Division One commitment to the University of Vermont. Mike was a key member of the U16 Wolf Pack Elite team that placed second in the USA National Championship. Lee has been with the Wolf Pack/Bobcat program since his Bantam Minor year. Lee said " It wouldn't be possible with the development through the Wolf Pack organization."
Lee is currently a sophmore at the Gunnery School in Connecticut and is a member of the Wolf Pack U18 National team this fall.
Congrats to Mike Lee and his family!
University of Vermont is a Division I school that competes in Hockey East. Vermont has appeared in the NCAA Men's Hockey Championship five times since making the move to Division I in 1974-75 including trips to the Frozen Four in 1996 and 2009.
(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)
Congratulations to Mike Lee on his Division One commitment to the University of Vermont. Mike was a key member of the U16 Wolf Pack Elite team that placed second in the USA National Championship. Lee has been with the Wolf Pack/Bobcat program since his Bantam Minor year. Lee said " It wouldn't be possible with the development through the Wolf Pack organization."
Lee is currently a sophmore at the Gunnery School in Connecticut and is a member of the Wolf Pack U18 National team this fall.
Congrats to Mike Lee and his family!
University of Vermont is a Division I school that competes in Hockey East. Vermont has appeared in the NCAA Men's Hockey Championship five times since making the move to Division I in 1974-75 including trips to the Frozen Four in 1996 and 2009.
(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)
Warriors Solidify Coaching Staff
Press Release
Moose Jaw Warriors General Manager Alan Millar announced the re-signing of Assistant Coaches Mike Vandenberghe and Mark O’Leary.
“We are very pleased to keep this coaching staff intact under Mike Stothers leadership,” said Millar. “Both Mike and Mark bring strong hockey credentials to our team and bring individual qualities that are an asset to the Warriors hockey club.”
Vandenberghe is entering his third season on the Warriors bench, he joined the team midway through the 2010-2011 season. He made his WHL playing debut with the Warriors in 1987-1988, he went on to play four more years with Brandon and Medicine Hat. After graduating from the WHL, Vandenberghe went on to a lengthy professional career in the ECHL, WPHL, and UHL. He was the Head Coach and General Manager of the SJHL’s Notre Dame Hounds, and was an Assistant Coach with the Brandon Wheat Kings and University of Regina Cougars.
O’Leary is entering his second season with Moose Jaw. He played three years in the Ontario Hockey League with Mississauga and Guelph from 2003 to 2006. O’Leary then went on to play five years of professional hockey in the AHL, ECHL, and CHL.
Vandenberghe and O’Leary will both be on the ice this weekend in Caronport for the Warriors 2013 Prospect Camp. 26 players from across western Canada and the United States, including the 2013 Bantam Draft Class, will be taking part in a number of on-ice sessions, which are free for fans to attend. For more information on Prospect Camp, go to mjwarriors.com
(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)
Moose Jaw Warriors General Manager Alan Millar announced the re-signing of Assistant Coaches Mike Vandenberghe and Mark O’Leary.
“We are very pleased to keep this coaching staff intact under Mike Stothers leadership,” said Millar. “Both Mike and Mark bring strong hockey credentials to our team and bring individual qualities that are an asset to the Warriors hockey club.”
Vandenberghe is entering his third season on the Warriors bench, he joined the team midway through the 2010-2011 season. He made his WHL playing debut with the Warriors in 1987-1988, he went on to play four more years with Brandon and Medicine Hat. After graduating from the WHL, Vandenberghe went on to a lengthy professional career in the ECHL, WPHL, and UHL. He was the Head Coach and General Manager of the SJHL’s Notre Dame Hounds, and was an Assistant Coach with the Brandon Wheat Kings and University of Regina Cougars.
O’Leary is entering his second season with Moose Jaw. He played three years in the Ontario Hockey League with Mississauga and Guelph from 2003 to 2006. O’Leary then went on to play five years of professional hockey in the AHL, ECHL, and CHL.
Vandenberghe and O’Leary will both be on the ice this weekend in Caronport for the Warriors 2013 Prospect Camp. 26 players from across western Canada and the United States, including the 2013 Bantam Draft Class, will be taking part in a number of on-ice sessions, which are free for fans to attend. For more information on Prospect Camp, go to mjwarriors.com
(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)
Texas Stars Sign Brendan Ranford to PTO for 2013-14 Season
Press Release
CEDAR PARK, TX – The Texas Stars announced today that left wing Brendan Ranford has signed a professional tryout contract for the upcoming 2013-14 season.
Ranford, 21, completed his fifth and final season of major junior hockey with the Kamloops Blazers of the Western Hockey League, where he recorded 87 points (22 goals, 65 assists) and 28 penalty minutes in 70 games played. The Edmonton, Alberta native finished the regular season tied for the team lead in assists, ranked second in games played, fourth in points and tied for fourth in goals. Ranford also appeared in 15 post-season games, scoring 20 points (5 goals, 15 assists) as he helped Kamloops reach the Western Conference Finals of the 2013 WHL Playoffs before losing to the eventual WHL Champion Portland Winterhawks in five games.
The 5-foot-10, 181-pound left wing appeared in 348 career WHL games for Kamloops, tallying 357 points (137 goals, 220 assists) and 298 penalty minutes. The Blazers are owned by Tom Gaglardi, owner of the Dallas Stars. Ranford was drafted by the Philadelphia Flyers in the seventh round (209th overall) of the 2010 NHL Entry Draft, but did not sign with the club by the June 1, 2012 deadline and has since become a free agent. He won a silver medal at the 2009 World Hockey Challenge U-17 tournament playing for Canada Pacific, scoring seven points (3 goals, 4 assists) in six games. Ranford’s uncle Bill Ranford was a former NHL star goaltender, two-time Stanley Cup winner and is the current goalie coach for the Los Angeles Kings.
(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)
CEDAR PARK, TX – The Texas Stars announced today that left wing Brendan Ranford has signed a professional tryout contract for the upcoming 2013-14 season.
Ranford, 21, completed his fifth and final season of major junior hockey with the Kamloops Blazers of the Western Hockey League, where he recorded 87 points (22 goals, 65 assists) and 28 penalty minutes in 70 games played. The Edmonton, Alberta native finished the regular season tied for the team lead in assists, ranked second in games played, fourth in points and tied for fourth in goals. Ranford also appeared in 15 post-season games, scoring 20 points (5 goals, 15 assists) as he helped Kamloops reach the Western Conference Finals of the 2013 WHL Playoffs before losing to the eventual WHL Champion Portland Winterhawks in five games.
The 5-foot-10, 181-pound left wing appeared in 348 career WHL games for Kamloops, tallying 357 points (137 goals, 220 assists) and 298 penalty minutes. The Blazers are owned by Tom Gaglardi, owner of the Dallas Stars. Ranford was drafted by the Philadelphia Flyers in the seventh round (209th overall) of the 2010 NHL Entry Draft, but did not sign with the club by the June 1, 2012 deadline and has since become a free agent. He won a silver medal at the 2009 World Hockey Challenge U-17 tournament playing for Canada Pacific, scoring seven points (3 goals, 4 assists) in six games. Ranford’s uncle Bill Ranford was a former NHL star goaltender, two-time Stanley Cup winner and is the current goalie coach for the Los Angeles Kings.
(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)
Lumberjacks Relieve Jim McKenzie of Head Coaching Duties
Press Release
MUSKEGON, Michigan (May 24th) – The Muskegon Lumberjacks have announced that they have dismissed Head Coach Jim McKenzie of his duties within the organization.
“We strive to be the best in the United States Hockey League, and simply put, we did not achieve our goals this past season,” said Lumberjacks President Tim Taylor. “The second half of the season was not acceptable by the organization’s standards. Our fan base, players, staff, and the community as a whole deserve better than average, so we will continue to work hard at being the best.”
The Lumberjacks are currently in the process of finding a new head coach for the upcoming 2013-14 season and expect to have an announcement made in the near future.
(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)
MUSKEGON, Michigan (May 24th) – The Muskegon Lumberjacks have announced that they have dismissed Head Coach Jim McKenzie of his duties within the organization.
“We strive to be the best in the United States Hockey League, and simply put, we did not achieve our goals this past season,” said Lumberjacks President Tim Taylor. “The second half of the season was not acceptable by the organization’s standards. Our fan base, players, staff, and the community as a whole deserve better than average, so we will continue to work hard at being the best.”
The Lumberjacks are currently in the process of finding a new head coach for the upcoming 2013-14 season and expect to have an announcement made in the near future.
(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)
Jay Varady Named New Head Coach and General Manager of Musketeers
Press Release
Sioux City, IA. - The Sioux City Musketeers pleased to announce that Jay Varady will be the new Head Coach and General Manager of the Musketeers Hockey Team. Varady will begin his new position with the team immediately.
Varady comes to Sioux City by way of Angers, France, where he was the Head Coach for the Les Ducs d'Angers for the last two seasons. Over the last two seasons, Angers achieved an overall regular season and cup record of 55-14-6, while winning 4 playoff rounds with Varady at the helm. Angers was the regular season champions in 2012-2013, and made it all the way to the finals in league playoffs.
Jay began his hockey career in the USHL back in 1995-96 season, when he played for the Dubuque Fighting Saints. After two seasons with the Saints, he moved on to a college playing career with Union College, where he competed for three seasons. He jumped from playing hockey to coaching hockey with Union College immediately after a playing career ended after the 1999-2000 season. He spent his senior seasons as a volunteer assistant with Union before moving on to an Assistant Coach position with Pittsburgh of the NAHL. From Pittsburgh, Jay moved on to Everett in the WHL, where he served as an Assistant Coach for the first four seasons of his stay with the Silvertips. He was promoted to Associate Head Coach of the Silvertips in his 5th season with the team, where he remained until he was hired as the Head coach of the Ducs in France at the end of the 2010-11 season. Varady also has experience with the USA Hockey program, having served as the Video Coach for the World Junior team that won Gold in 2010 under the guidance of former USHL coach and current University of Nebraska Omaha Head Coach Dean Blais.
"We're excited to welcome Jay to our team” stated Musketeers Owner and President, Lloyd Ney. “He brings with him a strong work ethic, and a commitment to winning that our players and fans will recognize from day one. As a former USHL captain, Jay knows our league, and he knows how to meet the goals of the team and the players. He's a great choice to continue the progress of our hockey club"
When asked about his return to the USHL, Varady was elated. “I am excited about the opportunity to return to the USHL, it is a great league with a long history of developing players. We are looking to continue the tradition of great hockey in Sioux City. Our staff will work every day to build a team that the fan base can be proud of while providing our players with the opportunity to reach their goals.”
A press conference introducing Jay as the new Head Coach and General Manager has been scheduled for 2:00pm on Thursday, June 20th at the IBP Ice Center.
(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)
Sioux City, IA. - The Sioux City Musketeers pleased to announce that Jay Varady will be the new Head Coach and General Manager of the Musketeers Hockey Team. Varady will begin his new position with the team immediately.
Varady comes to Sioux City by way of Angers, France, where he was the Head Coach for the Les Ducs d'Angers for the last two seasons. Over the last two seasons, Angers achieved an overall regular season and cup record of 55-14-6, while winning 4 playoff rounds with Varady at the helm. Angers was the regular season champions in 2012-2013, and made it all the way to the finals in league playoffs.
Jay began his hockey career in the USHL back in 1995-96 season, when he played for the Dubuque Fighting Saints. After two seasons with the Saints, he moved on to a college playing career with Union College, where he competed for three seasons. He jumped from playing hockey to coaching hockey with Union College immediately after a playing career ended after the 1999-2000 season. He spent his senior seasons as a volunteer assistant with Union before moving on to an Assistant Coach position with Pittsburgh of the NAHL. From Pittsburgh, Jay moved on to Everett in the WHL, where he served as an Assistant Coach for the first four seasons of his stay with the Silvertips. He was promoted to Associate Head Coach of the Silvertips in his 5th season with the team, where he remained until he was hired as the Head coach of the Ducs in France at the end of the 2010-11 season. Varady also has experience with the USA Hockey program, having served as the Video Coach for the World Junior team that won Gold in 2010 under the guidance of former USHL coach and current University of Nebraska Omaha Head Coach Dean Blais.
"We're excited to welcome Jay to our team” stated Musketeers Owner and President, Lloyd Ney. “He brings with him a strong work ethic, and a commitment to winning that our players and fans will recognize from day one. As a former USHL captain, Jay knows our league, and he knows how to meet the goals of the team and the players. He's a great choice to continue the progress of our hockey club"
When asked about his return to the USHL, Varady was elated. “I am excited about the opportunity to return to the USHL, it is a great league with a long history of developing players. We are looking to continue the tradition of great hockey in Sioux City. Our staff will work every day to build a team that the fan base can be proud of while providing our players with the opportunity to reach their goals.”
A press conference introducing Jay as the new Head Coach and General Manager has been scheduled for 2:00pm on Thursday, June 20th at the IBP Ice Center.
(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)
HAWKS' LEIPSIC SIGNS WITH PREDATORS
Press Release
The Nashville Predators have announced that they have signed Winterhawks forward Brendan Leipsic to a three-year entry level contract. Leipsic was drafted by the Predators in the third round, 89th overall, in the 2012 NHL Entry Draft.
Leipsic shared the league lead in scoring this season with linemate Nic Petan with 120 points each, as they won the Bob Clarke Trophy as the WHL’s leading scorers. Leipsic’s 49 goals also led the league, and he went on to add 24 points in 21 playoff games, helping lead the Winterhawks to the WHL Championship. He has one goal and one assist for two points through three games at the MasterCard Memorial Cup. Leipsic was also named to the WHL's Second All-Star Team.
In 201 regular season games over three seasons, Leipsic has career totals of 93 goals and 118 assists for 211 points.
“Brendan has steadily improved every season and become one of our cornerstone players,” said Winterhawks Acting Head Coach Travis Green. “Signing an entry level contract is a big first step towards a professional career, and we’re excited for Brendan and his family.”
(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)
The Nashville Predators have announced that they have signed Winterhawks forward Brendan Leipsic to a three-year entry level contract. Leipsic was drafted by the Predators in the third round, 89th overall, in the 2012 NHL Entry Draft.
Leipsic shared the league lead in scoring this season with linemate Nic Petan with 120 points each, as they won the Bob Clarke Trophy as the WHL’s leading scorers. Leipsic’s 49 goals also led the league, and he went on to add 24 points in 21 playoff games, helping lead the Winterhawks to the WHL Championship. He has one goal and one assist for two points through three games at the MasterCard Memorial Cup. Leipsic was also named to the WHL's Second All-Star Team.
In 201 regular season games over three seasons, Leipsic has career totals of 93 goals and 118 assists for 211 points.
“Brendan has steadily improved every season and become one of our cornerstone players,” said Winterhawks Acting Head Coach Travis Green. “Signing an entry level contract is a big first step towards a professional career, and we’re excited for Brendan and his family.”
(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)
The QMJHL congratulates Patrick Roy
Press Release
The Quebec Major Junior Hockey League congratulates Patrick Roy on his nomination as head-coach and Vice President of Hockey Operations of the Colorado Avalanche.
Roy spent the last eight seasons as head coach and general manager of the Quebec Remparts of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League. He guided the Remparts to a 348-196 record (.640) in 544 regular season games behind the bench, which included leading Quebec to the 2006 Memorial Cup title as the Canadian Hockey League champions.
"We are all very happy for Patrick Roy's nomination. He was and remains an exemplary ambassador of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League. The Avalanche has made an excellent choice and we wish him nothing but success."
Roy played three season (1982-83, 1983-84, 1984-85) in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League with the Granby Bisons (159 games in regular season) and entered the professional ranks with the Montreal Canadiens in 1985-86.
He had a dazzling beginning and impressed all with his spectacular saves especially during the playoffs. Roy won his first Stanley Cup in 1986.
He had an impressive and brilliant 18 season career in the National Hockey League and holds a significant number of regular season and playoff records.
Roy was inducted into the QMJHL Hall of Fame presented by RDS in 2004.
(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)
The Quebec Major Junior Hockey League congratulates Patrick Roy on his nomination as head-coach and Vice President of Hockey Operations of the Colorado Avalanche.
Roy spent the last eight seasons as head coach and general manager of the Quebec Remparts of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League. He guided the Remparts to a 348-196 record (.640) in 544 regular season games behind the bench, which included leading Quebec to the 2006 Memorial Cup title as the Canadian Hockey League champions.
"We are all very happy for Patrick Roy's nomination. He was and remains an exemplary ambassador of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League. The Avalanche has made an excellent choice and we wish him nothing but success."
Roy played three season (1982-83, 1983-84, 1984-85) in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League with the Granby Bisons (159 games in regular season) and entered the professional ranks with the Montreal Canadiens in 1985-86.
He had a dazzling beginning and impressed all with his spectacular saves especially during the playoffs. Roy won his first Stanley Cup in 1986.
He had an impressive and brilliant 18 season career in the National Hockey League and holds a significant number of regular season and playoff records.
Roy was inducted into the QMJHL Hall of Fame presented by RDS in 2004.
(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)
Knights eliminate tournament hosts from contention
Press Release
The London Knights recorded six goals while limiting the Blades’ scoring chance to a minimum with some tight defensive play on their way to a 6-1 victory over the 2013 MasterCard Memorial Cup hosts.
The Knights got the game’s opening goal on a penalty shot at 3:24. Bo Horvat, who had previously been taken down on a breakaway attempt, slowly came down the middle and slid the puck between Andrey Makarov’s pads to put the Knights up 1-0.
Early in the second period, Paxton Leroux received a four-minute boarding penalty, giving the Blades a golden opportunity to tie up the score at one. Unfortunately, they were unable to generate any kind of quality scoring chance.
The Knights took a 2-0 lead on a fantastic individual effort from Seth Griffith. The Knights forward picked up the puck in the neutral zone, accelerated into the offensive zone before going through four Blades defenders and burying his third goal of the tournament.
Less than one minute later, London broke the host team’s backs as Chris Tierney, parked in the slot, one-timed a beautiful Max Domi pass into the net.
The Knights retreated to their dressing room with a three-goal lead after forty minutes of play.
The Blades found no solace in the third period with London registering three goals in the first four minutes of play courtesy of Ryan Rupert, Kyle Platzer and Nikita Zadorov.
Saskatoon did manage to break up the shutout thanks to a Nathan Burns goal at 11:40.
Jake Patterson made 32 saves in the victory. Bo Horvat was named the game’s first star.
The semi-final game of the 2013 MasterCard Memorial Cup will see the London Knights battle the Portland Winterhawks on Friday. The game can be seen live on Sportsnet and TVA Sports starting at 8 pm ET / 9 pm AT.
(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)
The London Knights recorded six goals while limiting the Blades’ scoring chance to a minimum with some tight defensive play on their way to a 6-1 victory over the 2013 MasterCard Memorial Cup hosts.
The Knights got the game’s opening goal on a penalty shot at 3:24. Bo Horvat, who had previously been taken down on a breakaway attempt, slowly came down the middle and slid the puck between Andrey Makarov’s pads to put the Knights up 1-0.
Early in the second period, Paxton Leroux received a four-minute boarding penalty, giving the Blades a golden opportunity to tie up the score at one. Unfortunately, they were unable to generate any kind of quality scoring chance.
The Knights took a 2-0 lead on a fantastic individual effort from Seth Griffith. The Knights forward picked up the puck in the neutral zone, accelerated into the offensive zone before going through four Blades defenders and burying his third goal of the tournament.
Less than one minute later, London broke the host team’s backs as Chris Tierney, parked in the slot, one-timed a beautiful Max Domi pass into the net.
The Knights retreated to their dressing room with a three-goal lead after forty minutes of play.
The Blades found no solace in the third period with London registering three goals in the first four minutes of play courtesy of Ryan Rupert, Kyle Platzer and Nikita Zadorov.
Saskatoon did manage to break up the shutout thanks to a Nathan Burns goal at 11:40.
Jake Patterson made 32 saves in the victory. Bo Horvat was named the game’s first star.
The semi-final game of the 2013 MasterCard Memorial Cup will see the London Knights battle the Portland Winterhawks on Friday. The game can be seen live on Sportsnet and TVA Sports starting at 8 pm ET / 9 pm AT.
(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)
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