Sunday, June 30, 2013

Former Vipers Defenceman Hetnik Joins UMass Hockey Program:

Former Vernon Vipers defenceman Marc Hetnik will enter his freshman season with the Minutemen in 2013-14.  The UMass website introduces the newest member of the Minutemen.  Hetnik played the last two seasons in Vernon (2011-2013) playing in 112 regular season games with the Vipers.  Hetnik collected (6-22-28) in his two seasons in Vernon. 

Marc Hetnik's Player Profile:

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/rosters_profile.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&teamID=339739&playerID=821176

This is posted on the UMass website:

Marc Hetnik Joins UMass Hockey Program

The 6-3, 180-pound defensemen from Brookline, Mass., is the newest member of the Minutemen's Class of 2017.

May 20, 2013

AMHERST, Mass. - Marc Hetnik, a 6-3, 180-pound defenseman from Brookline,

"Marc is a big, rangy and mobile defenseman who has the ability to play both ends of the ice," said Micheletto. "He's also shown significant leadership skills in his time in Vernon and we expect all of those things to translate for Marc immediately at the collegiate level. He is a great two-way defenseman who will bring an element of toughness and mobility to our back end."

Hetnik appeared in 112 career contests with the Vipers and totaled 28 points on six goals and 22 assists over his two years in Vernon under head coach Jason Williamson. In 2012, he attended the New England Pro-Am Hockey annual Pre-Draft Showcase and was named the All-Tournament Best Defenseman after helping East Coast Militia to a 5-0 record before falling in the championship game with a goal and three assists over six games at the showcase. During his senior season at Catholic Memorial, Hetnik was selected to the Boston Herald Dream Team in 2011.

Hetnik's father, Marc Hetnik, Sr., played four years of college hockey at Boston University and won a national championship with the Terriers in 1977-78.
Mass., has joined the UMass hockey program as a member of the Class of 2017, head coach John Micheletto announced on Monday. Hetnik spent the last two seasons for the Vernon Vipers of the British Columbia Hockey League (BCHL) after finishing his career at Catholic Memorial in West Roxbury in 2011.

UMass head coach John Micheletto comments on Marc Hetnik,

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jAby45Xjz3U&feature=player_embedded


Saturday, June 29, 2013

Three Former Vipers Hoping To Hear Their Names Called On Sunday In New Jersey:

The final NHL Central Scouting rankings came out in late April and three former
Vernon Vipers (Jedd Soleway, Adam Tambellini & Kevin Guiltianan) were amongst the eight BCHL players were listed.

Kevin Guiltinan was recruited and signed by the Vipers last summer, starting the 2012-13 season with the Vipers before being traded along with future considerations to Prince George on November 22nd for forward Liam Board. In 48  games last season with Vernon & Prince George Guiltinan collected (0-3-3).

Kevin Guiltinan's Player Profile:

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/rosters_profile.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&teamID=339741&playerID=932611

Adam Tambellini was recruited by the Vipers playing his first season in Vernon 2011-12 before being traded to Surrey on the BCHL trade deadline in January for Mason Blacklock and future considerations.   In 52 games with the Vipers & Eagles last season Tambellini collected (36-30-65).  Tambellini is off to the University of North Dakota this coming season.

Adam Tambellini's Player Profile:

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/rosters_profile.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&teamID=339737&playerID=821203

Jedd Soleway played his first year in Vernon (2011-12) before being traded to Penticton on December 5th 2012 for forward Dexter Dancs. In 26 games with the Vipers last year Soleway collected (5-12-17) while In 22 games with the Vees last season Soleway collected (14-15-29). Soleway was recently drafted 227th overall in the 16th Round by the United States Hockey League (USHL) Tri-City Storm back in May.  Soleway also attended the Chicago Blackhawks Pre-Draft combine back on  June 8th and 9th.  
  
Jedd Soleway's Player Profile:


http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/rosters_profile.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&teamID=339730&playerID=821199

This is posted on the BCHL website:

BCHL talents hoping to hear their names called on Sunday in New Jersey

Friday, June 28, 2013 - Submitted by BCHL Media

This year's NHL Entry Draft at Prudential Center in New Jersey is later than normal owing to the labour turmoil so a few BCHL players will be having to wait a few extra days to see if they're claimed by an NHL club.

The final NHL Central Scouting rankings came out in late April and eight BCHL players were listed, including the top four Junior A prospects.

Here's a quick rundown of the players who could be in for an exciting weekend:

Adam Tambellini, F, Surrey Eagles (36G, 26A, 26PIM last season)
Tambellini has the NHL bloodlines that scouts love with an NHL dad and older brother. He has a projectable 6-foot-3, 170-pound frame and skates and shoots at a pro level. Committed to North Dakota for next season.

David Pope, F, West Kelowna Warriors (17G, 22A, 20PIM last season)
Pope gave a glimpse of what he could do last season approaching a point-per-game pace with the Warriors. Attended the NHL Draft combine . Commited to the University of Nebraska-Omaha for 2014.

Luke Ripley, D, Powell River Kings (2G, 11A, 85PIM last season)
Ripley became the latest in a long line of blueline prospect from Powell River and displayed a rugged game with 85 penalty minutes. Also showed well at the World Junior A Challenge. Committed to Notre Dame for 2014.

Nolan De Jong, D, Victoria Grizzlies (5G, 19A, 16PIM last season)
De Jong mentored under Toronto Maple Leafs defenceman Ryan O'Byrne who was a Grizzlies assistant last season during the NHL work stoppage. Played at the WJAC and is committed to Michigan for the fall.

Dane Birks, D, Merritt Centennials (5G, 15A, 28PIM last season)
Birks is the son of a hockey coach (Trail Smoke Eaters bench boss Bill Birks) and got off to a great start last season with a ton of scouts watching the BCHL Showcase. Committed to Michigan Tech for 2015.

Jedd Soleway, F, Penticton Vees (19G, 27A, 62PIM last season)
Soleway's late surge got him into the Central Scouting rankings after being unlisted earlier in the season. At 6-foot-3, 215 pounds, he has a pro-ready body but will play first at the University of Wisconsin starting this fall.

Kevin Guiltinan, D, Prince George Spruce Kings (0G, 3A, 100PIM last season)
Guiltinan is a throwback-type player that won't likely earn any scoring titles but really enjoys the physical side of the game. Advanced physically at 6-foot-3 and 210 pounds, he's also smart and will go to Harvard in 2014.

Chad Katunar, G, Penticton Vees (25W, 2.36GAA, .920sv%, 4SO last season)
Katunar takes up a lot of the net at 6-foot-6, 218 pounds. Has gone on deep playoff runs each of the last two seasons with the Vees. As a 1993-born player, he's of the older draft-eligible players. Committed to Notre dame for the fall.

BCHL related:

Nic Petan, younger brother of former Coquitalm Express captain Alex, is a projected late first round selection.

Hunter Shinkaruk, cousin of former Powell River Kings and Merritt Centennials forward Carter, is a projected first rounder.

Friday, June 28, 2013

Former Vernon Viper Tambellini Is Expected To Be First BCHL Player Picked On Sunday:

Here is an article in Wednesday's Vancouver Province Newspaper on former Vernon Vipers forward Adam Tambellini.  Tambellini was listed at #42 heading into the NHL scouting combine back in June. Tambellini had the lowest body fat (5.0 percent) and the lowest sum of skinfolds (14 mm). Tambellini finished one spot ahead of Jonathan Drouin in both categories. Tambellini played his first year with the Vipers last season before being traded to Surrey on the BCHL trade deadline in January for Mason Blacklock and future considerations. Tambellini is off to the University of North Dakota next season.

Adam Tambellini's Player Profile:

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/rosters_profile.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&teamID=378208&playerID=821203


This was in the Vancouver Province Newspaper:

NHL Draft: Adam Tambellini of the Surrey Eagles is expected to be first BCHL player picked on Sunday

By Jim Jamieson, The ProvinceJune 26, 2013

You might think that Adam Tambellini’s hockey bloodlines are enough to get him to a professional hockey career, but he’s done enough on his own to show he’s got a bright future, even if his name were Smith or Jones.

Son of Steve Tambellini — the one-time NHL player, former Canucks executive and ex-Edmonton Oilers GM — and brother of Jeff, who has 242 NHL games under his belt, including a season in Vancouver, Adam is also the grandson of Addie Tambellini — a member of the 1961 world champion Trail Smoke Eaters.

Adam is ranked 42nd among North American skaters by NHL Central Scouting and he’s expected to the first B.C. Hockey League player taken in Sunday’s NHL Draft, possibly as early as the bottom of the second round.

If there has been a burden of expectation because of his last name, Tambellini isn’t showing it.

“I think it’s great to have that,” said Adam, 18, who was born in Port Moody, but moved to Edmonton in 2008 when his father was hired as the Oilers GM.

“I get to look up to those guys and see what they did in their careers to make them successful. All three of those guys are extremely hard working and if I can take a little bit from their game and how they treat people and the way they do their business, I’ll do that for sure.”

A left-shot centre who’s close to 6-foot-3 and a lanky 172 pounds, Adam is taking a similar route to Jeff, 29, though with different stops. He’s just finished his second and final season in the BCHL, beginning with the Vernon Vipers and finishing up with the Surrey Eagles via a mid-season trade this season — whereas Jeff played in Chilliwack during his BCHL days. After the trade Adam scored nearly two points a game and a point a game in the playoffs as Surrey won the BCHL championship. The performance also boosted his Central Scouting rank from 62 at mid-season.

“He’s definitely his own person, taking his own route and wanted to be his own player,” said Jason Williamson, head coach of Vernon Vipers. “That’s really impressive about Adam, wanting to make his own name for himself.”

He has already with Williamson.

“He’s very smart for his age and anytime he gets the puck on the offensive side of the red line he’s very dangerous,” said Williamson. “His shot, his release are at an NHL level already so once he packs on a few more pounds it’s going to be quite scary.”

Getting thicker and stronger is the focus and that’s why Adam has chosen to play U.S. college hockey at University of North Dakota – not Michigan, where his brother played.

“I’d had North Dakota in the back of my mind for a while,” said Adam. “And when they brought me down there and showed me around and what they were offering me, I really couldn’t say no.”

A late-bloomer who was never drafted by the WHL, the college route will give him time to add some bulk onto his frame.

“U.S. college is a lighter schedule and there’s just more time in the gym during the week,” he said. “I can fill out a little more and hopefully be ready for the pro game.”

At the recent NHL Combine, Adam had the lowest body for any of the attendees (an amazing five per cent). He had interviews with 21 NHL teams at the combine, including the Canucks.

“It’s been kind of fun, watching him grow up from a shy little kid to this guy who’s 6-foot-4,” said brother Jeff, who’s signed to play for Modo in the Swedish Hockey League next season. “He’s always been a talented player.”

Williamson summed it up:

“I think he’s a lot more like his dad than his brother. The bloodlines don’t hurt, but if you give him a different last name, we’d still be talking about the same player.”

Thursday, June 27, 2013

Stingrays Add Former Vipers Bishop & Brodie To Teams Protected List:

On Monday, June 3rd the East Coast Hockey League (ECHL)

announced the Protected Lists as submitted by each of its member teams. The ECHL South Carolina Stingrays have thirty one players listed on their protected list, two of the thirty one are former Vernon Vipers forward Hunter
Bishop & former Vernon Vipers defenceman Cameron Brodie.

Bishop is currently playing with the American Hockey League's (AHL) Manchester Monarchs. Bishop started the season with East Coast Hockey League's (ECHL) South Carolina Stingrays before signing a (PTO) Professional Tryout Contract with the Monarchs on February 22nd 2013 where he finished the season. In 24 regular season games with the Monarchs Bishop collected (3-2-5).

Bishop signed with South Carolina on October, 1st 2012. In 48 games this season with South Carolina Bishop collected (24-25-49). This is Bishops third trip to the AHL this season after the Stingrays loaned Bishop to the AHL Lake Erie Monsters on January, 8th 2013 before returning to South Carolina on January, 18th 2013. Bishop went pointless in three games with the Monsters. On January, 25th 2013 the AHL Rochester Americans signed Bishop to a (PTO) Professional Tryout Contract.  Bishop was released a day later after playing in just one game with the Americans.

Bishop played parts of the last three years with the ECHL Wheeling Nailers & the AHL Hamilton Bulldogs before missing the entire 2011-12 season with an undisclosed injury. Bishop played parts of three seasons in Vernon (2005-2008). Bishop left Vernon after two seasons and played in just four games at the University of North Dakota during the 2006-07 season before returning to Vernon during the Christmas break playing the remainder of the 2006-07 season playing his final season with the Vipers (2007-2008) before playing the next two years at Ohio State University. In 140 regular season games with the Vipers Bishop collected (93-84-177). On March. 18th 2010 the Montreal Canadiens signed Bishop as a free agent to a two year contract. Bishop attended the Habs training camp the last three seasons before being sent down to the American Hockey League's Hamilton Bulldogs.

Hunter Bishop's Player Profile:

http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=80970

Brodie started the season with the East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) Stockton Thunder before being traded on January 25th 2013 to South Carolina. Brodie was in his third season with the Thunder before the trade. In 30 games this season with Stockton Brodie collected (1-6-7). Brodie played in 52 games with the Thunder last year as well as three games with the AHL Texas Stars before returning to Stockton. In 52 regular season games with the Thunder Brodie collected 0-7-7 & collected just one assist in eight playoff games. In 4 games with the Stingrays this season Brodie picked up (0-2-2). Brodie played parts of one season in Vernon (2008-2009) after being aquired from the Coquitlam Express at the 2009 BCHL trade deadline.

Cameron Brodie's Player Profile:

http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=81370


This is posted on the Stingrays website:

Stingrays Announce Protected List

By: Joseph Zakrzewski

North Charleston, S.C. – The South Carolina Stingrays, proud ECHL affiliate of the Boston Bruins of the National Hockey League, announced today the team’s Protected List.

The team’s protected list of players include: goaltenders Ryan Zapolski and Jeff Jakaitis, defensemen Ryan Grimshaw, Scooter Vaughan, Luka Vidmar, Jake Areshenko, Damon Kipp, Cameron Brodie, Derek Foam, Ryan Lowery, Ryan Turek, Edwin Shea, Kevin Quick, Ryan McGinnis and Johann Kroll and forwards Brett Olson, Alex MacLeod, Andrew Cherniwchan, Eric Alexander, Andrew Sackrison, Robby Dee, Patrick Gaul, Jay Silvia, Peter Boyd, Chris Langkow, Mike Hamilton, Tyler McNeely, Hunter Bishop, Billy Ryan, Sean Dolan and Michael Dorr.

Teams are allowed to protect as many players as they wish provided the players protected meet the guidelines as defined in the Collective Bargaining Agreement between the ECHL and the Professional Hockey Players’ Association which state that teams shall retain the rights to each player that:

1. Signed an SPC in 2012-13 with the Member, and has not been traded or released, OR

2. Signed an SPC in 2012-13, and was recalled to the NHL/AHL or IIHF team, and has not been traded or released, OR

3. Had received a Qualifying Offer last summer for the current Season, DID NOT sign an SPC, and has not been traded or released, OR

4. Has been suspended by the Member or League, and has not been traded or released, OR

5. Signed an SPC on or after the first day of the 2012-13 Regular Season, then subsequently signed an NHL/AHL contract, and has not been traded or released, OR

6. Has executed the ECHL Retirement Form, and has not been traded or released.

Protected lists may exceed 20 players.

The ECHL also announced that teams must complete all Future Consideration trades by 3 p.m. ET on June 13 and that teams must submit their Season-Ending Roster by 3 p.m. ET on June 15.

Season-ending rosters may include up to 20 players and cannot include any players who did not sign an ECHL contract in 2012-13.

Wednesday, June 26, 2013

Vernon Vipers 2013-14 Schedule:

The BCHL released it's 2013-14 regular season schedule Monday.  Here is a look at this year's Vernon Vipers schedule.

2013-14 Vernon Vipers Exhibition Schedule:

August:

Friday August 23rd  Vernon @ Salmon Arm
Saturday August 24th  Salmon Arm @ Vernon
Wednesday August 28th  Vernon vs Prince George (In 100 Mile House)
Friday August 30th  West Kelowna @ Vernon
Saturday August 31st  Vernon @ West Kelowna

2013-14 Vernon Vipers Regular Season Schedule:

September:

BCHL Showcase:  Saturday September 7th  Vernon @ Surrey  (In Chilliwack)
BCHL Showcase:  Sunday September 8th  Chilliwack @ Vernon  (In Chilliwack)

Friday September 13th Vernon @ Salmon Arm
Saturday September 14th  Salmon Arm @ Vernon  (Vipers Home Opener)
Tuesday September 17th  Vernon @ West Kelowna
Saturday September 21st  Merritt @ Vernon
Wednesday September 25th  Penticton @ Vernon
Friday September 27th  Vernon @ Surrey
Saturday September 28th  Surrey @ Vernon

October:

Friday October 4th  Vernon @ Prince George
Saturday October 5th  Vernon @ Salmon Arm
Friday October 11th  Chilliwack @ Vernon
Saturday October 12th  Vernon @ Chilliwack
Tuesday October 15th  Trail @ Vernon
Friday October 18th  Vernon @ Powell River
Saturday October 19th  Vernon @ Nanaimo
Sunday October 20th  Vernon @ Alberni Valley
Friday October 25th  Vernon @ Penticton
Saturday October 26th  Merritt @ Vernon

November:

Friday November 1st  Salmon Arm @ Vernon
Sunday November 3rd  Victoria @ Vernon
Friday November 8th  West Kelowna @ Vernon
Saturday November 9th  Prince George @ Vernon
Friday November 15th  Vernon @ Merritt
Sunday November 17th  Cowichan Valley @ Vernon
Wednesday November 20th  Vernon @ Penticton
Friday November 22nd  Vernon @ Trail
Saturday November 23rd  West Kelowna @ Vernon
Friday November 29th  Merritt @ Vernon

December:

Sunday December 1st  Trail @ Vernon
Friday December 6th  Vernon @ Victoria
Saturday December 7th  Vernon @ Cowichan Valley
Sunday December 8th  Vernon @ Coquitlam
Friday December 13th  Trail @ Vernon
Saturday December 14th  Vernon @ Salmon Arm
Wednesday December 18th  West Kelowna @ Vernon
Saturday December 21st  Powell River @ Vernon

January:

Friday January 3rd  Vernon @ Trail
Saturday January 4th  Nanaimo @ Vernon
Friday January 10th  Penticton @ Vernon
Saturday January 11th  Coquitlam @ Vernon
Tuesday January 14th  Vernon @ Merritt
Friday January 17th  Vernon @ West Kelowna
Saturday January 18th  Alberni Valley @ Vernon
Sunday January 19th  Vernon @ Salmon Arm
Friday January 24th  Penticton @ Vernon
Saturday January 25th  Vernon @ Merritt
Friday January 31st  Trail @ Vernon

February:

Saturday February 1st  Vernon @ West Kelowna
Saturday February 7th  Vernon @ Langley
Saturday February 8th  Langley @ Vernon
Wednesday February 12th  Vernon @ Trail
Friday February 14th  Vernon @ Penticton
Saturday February 15th  West Kelowna @ Vernon
Friday February 21st  Salmon Arm @ Vernon
Saturday February 22nd  Penticton @ Vernon
Wednesday February 26th  Vernon @ Trail

March:

Saturday March 1st  Vernon @ Merritt

Tuesday, June 25, 2013

Silverbacks Name Former Vipers Captain Kraus New Assistant Coach:

The Salmon Arm Silverbacks have named former Vernon Vipers captain-defenceman Kevin Kraus new Assistant Coach as well as strength & conditioning coach.   Kraus finished his second season with the KIJHL Revelstoke Grizzlies. Kraus joined the Grizzlies for the 2011-12 season as an Assistant Coach before being named the clubs Head Coach-GM for the 2012-13 season. Kraus played parts of three seasons in Vernon (2007-2010) signing with the Vipers during the 2007-08 season after playing in the WHL. In 129 regular season games with the Vipers Kraus collected (6-44-50). Kraus was an Assistant Captain during the 2008-09 season before being the captain of the 2009-10 Viper team that won the 2010 Royal Bank Cup.

Kevin Kraus's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=38023


This is posted on the Silverbacks website:

SilverBacks Hire Kraus As New Assistant Coach

Monday, June 24, 2013 - Submitted by Salmon Arm SilverBacks

The Salmon Arm SilverBacks are pleased to announce the hiring of Kevin Kraus as the team’s new assistant coach.

Kraus joins the SilverBacks after spending the past two seasons as head coach and general manager of the KIJHL’s Revelstoke Grizzlies, with whom he compiled an overall record of 64-32-3-7 and won a Doug Birks division championship in 2012.

As a player, the Huntington Beach, California product skated in the Western Hockey League with Kamloops and Tri-City before winning back-to-back BCHL championships, Doyle and RBC Cups as a defenseman with the Vernon Vipers, captaining the club during his final BCHL season. Kraus enjoyed a brief stint in professional hockey in the CHL and SPHL before transitioning into the coaching ranks.

“I’m very excited to be joining the SilverBacks,” Kraus stated. “I look forward to working with a very motivated and passionate staff in Salmon Arm this coming season.”

“We’re thrilled to add a proven winner like Kevin to our coaching staff,” said SilverBacks head coach/general manager Troy Mick. “Our players will benefit greatly from his experience as a player because he knows what it takes to win and the sacrifices involved in becoming a champion.”

“Kevin has done a great job in developing players for our league during his time in Revelstoke. I’ve known him for quite a few years now and he is without question ready for the next step in his coaching career and we welcome him to Salmon Arm,” Mick added.

Kraus will also take on the role of strength & conditioning coach with the SilverBacks this season.

For more information please contact the SilverBacks Hockey Operations office at 250-832-3856 Ext 106.

Monday, June 24, 2013

Komets Add Former Viper Marino To Teams Protected List:

On Monday, June 3rd the East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) announced the Protected Lists as submitted by each of its member teams. The ECHL Fort Wayne Komets have twenty players listed on their protected list one of is former Vernon Vipers forward Brandon Marino.

Fort Wayne Komets Protected List:

Charlie Effinger, Daniel Maggio, Scott Kishel, Nick Wheeler, Mathieu Gagnon, Jeremy Gates, Tyler Butler, Jamie Milam, Eric Giosa, Matt Firman, Jean-Michel Rizk, John Dunbar, Chris Auger, Mike Hoban, Brandon Marino, Matt Syroczynski, Thomas Beauregard, Kaleigh Schrock, Brett Smith and Colin Chaulk 

Marino finished his first season in the ECHL after signing with the Komets on July, 17th 2012. In 71 games this season with the Komets Marino collected (20-54-74).  The Komets named Marino the teams MVP at the end of the season.  Marino was invited to the AHL Norfolk Admirals training camp on September, 26th 2012 but was released on October, 4th 2012. Marino was then called up to the Admirals but only played in one game before being released.

Marino spent the last three seasons with the Central Hockey League (CHL) Quad City Mallards before signing with the Komets. Marino was named the 2011-12 Central Hockey League Most Valuable Player, as well as took home MVP at last year's CHL all-star game. Marino had a breakout season during which he led the league with 41 goals and finished second with 90 points. The 5’ 9”, 185-pound Riverside, California native also led the league in power play goals (13), ranked fourth in assists (49) and finished tied for fourth in shorthanded goals (3) and game winning goals (7) while also posting a plus/minus rating of +9. Marino played just two games with the 2002-2003 Vernon Vipers.

Brandon Marino's Player Profile:

http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=93732


This is posted on the ECHL website:

ECHL announces Protected Lists

June 3, 2013

The ECHL on Monday announced the Protected Lists as submitted by each of its Member teams.

Teams are allowed to protect as many players as they wish provided the players protected meet the guidelines as defined in the Collective Bargaining Agreement between the ECHL and the Professional Hockey Players’ Association which state that teams shall retain the rights to each player that:

1. Signed an SPC in 2012-13 with the Member, and has not been traded or released, OR

2. Signed an SPC in 2012-13, and was recalled to the NHL/AHL or IIHF team, and has not been traded or released, OR

3. Had received a Qualifying Offer last summer for the current Season, DID NOT sign an SPC, and has not been traded or released, OR

4. Has been suspended by the Member or League, and has not been traded or released, OR

5. Signed an SPC on or after the first day of the 2012-13 Regular Season, then subsequently signed an NHL/AHL contract, and has not been traded or released, OR

6. Has executed the ECHL Retirement Form, and has not been traded or released.

Protected lists may exceed 20 players.

The ECHL also announced that teams must complete all Future Consideration trades by 3 p.m. ET on June 13 and that teams must submit their Season-Ending Roster by 3 p.m. ET on June 15.

Season-ending rosters may include up to 20 players and cannot include any players who did not sign an ECHL contract in 2012-13.

Sunday, June 23, 2013

Vipers With A Busy Off Season Continue To Build For RBC Cup:

Over the last seven to eight years the Vipers have been one of the quietest teams in the league when it came to making player announcements etc over the summer.  The Vipers would always announce a new recruit or two just after a season ended and then maybe announcing another one over the summer before one or two before the start of training camp, but that was it.  So far this off season the Vipers have been one of the busiest teams in the league with player announcements-trades etc.  All kinds of new recruits, trades etc coming from the Vipers with still two months until training camp and the Vipers still having to trade two 20 yr olds before the start of the season.  This is what I like to see!  In previous years its frustrating being a diehard fan not knowing any of the new players coming in.  I wish the Vipers would keep the diehard fans more intuned with player announcements etc through out the summer months.

Over the last two weeks the Vipers have three players committed to play in Vernon for the 2013-14 BCHL season.  Comming into town will be 18 year old defenceman Kenny Citron, 18 year old forward Matt Saharchuk and 17 yr old forward Liam Coughlin.  The Vipers also made a huge announcement on Friday that former North Okanagan Knights Head Coach-GM Kris Mallette will be joining the Vipers as Associate Coach.

What do you we know about all four new Vernon Vipers.  Well I did a little searching and this is what I found.

Citron is from Hartsdale New York, listed at 6'1 195 lbs  Was captain of Team Comcast last season that competed in the USA Nationals.  Citron was selected 236th overall by the Lincoln Stars in the 2013 USHL Draft.  Citron has committed to Colgate University for the 2015-16 season.  Citron was heavily recruited by Yale, Princeton, Dartmouth, Harvard, Cornell, & Union.

Here is an article on Citron committing to Colagte University,

http://www.pointstreaksites.com/view/teamcomcastaaahockey/news/news_57060

Kenny Citron's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=130806

Matt Saharchuk is from Fort St. James BC, listed at 6'2 200 lbs  In 50 games with the North Okanagan Knights this season collected 32 goals & 28 assists.  Saharchuk played two games as an "AP" with the Salmon Arm Silverbacks this past season. 

Matt Saharchuk's Player Profile:

http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=163107

Liam Coughlin is from South Boston, listed at 6'4 195 lbs  In 21 games with Catholic Memorial high school this past season collected 27 goals & 24 assists.  Coughlin was named Massachusetts Division 1 player of the Year and was taken 30th overall by Dubuque of the USHL. Coughlin attended the Montreal Canadiens Pro Draft Camp at the beginning of June and is garnering a lot of attention for the upcoming NHL draft.

Here is a article on Coughlin being taken in the USHL Draft,

http://bostonherald.com/sports/high_school/in_the_slot/2013/05/coughlin_pinho_selected_in_ushl_draft

Here is a article on Liam Coughlin,

http://espn.go.com/blog/boston/high-school/post/_/id/21617/player-perspective-cms-liam-coughlin

Liam Coughlin talks after a Catholic Memorial victory,

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ieDylV6FlPM

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=grYN525mhhQ

Liam Coughlin's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=248303

Kris Mallette is from Kelowna BC, played one game with the Nanaimo Clippers back in 1995-96 before playing five seasons as one of the WHL's tough guys with Kelowna and Moose Jaw before finishing his final ten years in the Minor Pros with Louisiana, Baton Rouge, Asheville, Elmira, Colorado, Youngstown, Laredo and Flint.  Mallette was selected 62nd overall in Round 3 at the 1997 NHL Entry Draft by the Philadelphia Flyers.  Maellette began his coaching career as an Assistant Coach with the North Okanagan Knights in the 2010-11 season before taking over as head Coach-GM during the 2011-12 season.   

Kris Mallette's Players-Coaches Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=19340

I like the sounds of all three new recruits coming in for next season.  The biggest thing that I like is their size, all three are pretty big kids.  I was a little surprised the Vipers would bring in three 18 yr olds with the RBC Cup next season.  Looking at the Vipers roster, I thought they would bring in a few more 19 yr olds.  From reading comments on all three kids it sounds like all three young men are very skilled and well liked by there former coaches-teams.  The Vipers now with 25 players still need to trade two 20 yr olds before the start of next season.  Will the Vipers bring in anymore new recruits or bring in new players via the trade route?  Time will tell I guess but the Vipers coaching staff has some tough decissions to be made.  The Vipers returning players from this season better be ready and mentally prepared to battle and compete for there jobs at Training camp in August as nobody has been given a job on next seasons roster just yet. 

I was thrilled to hear the Vipers have brought in Kris Mallette behind the bench.  This is huge news!  For the third season in a row the Vipers are bringing in a new Assistant Coach.  I said back at the Christmas break that Mallette has proven he is a winner and can be a Head Coach or Assistant Coach in this leage, he is now ready to move up in the hockey world. I knew he would be looking to jump up to Jr A as a head Coach or Assistant Coach this coming season. I think the Vipers are very lucky to get him, as several other teams Im sure were calling him.   Not only will Mallette help with the Vipers struggling defence that has shown the last two seasons but will also add some experience behind the Viper bench.  Jason Williamson heading into just his third season as the Vipers Head Coach-GM still has to prove to Vernon fans hes the man for the job and can get the job done.  Williamson and the Vipers have missed the playoffs the last two years under Williamson and fans are wanting Williamson's head on a platter.  Willy has to get off to a good start next season and show some improvement this coming year.  Willy and his Viper teams have struggled the last two years and never really improved or got better as the seasons went along.  Uncosistant play and making the same mistakes at the start of the season and still late in the season, shows me the players arnt buying into the systems.  Mallette who did a heck of a job with the Knights can hopefully bring in some winning experience behind the bench and into the Viper dressing room.  The Vipers have a young coaching staff with all under five years or less of coaching.  Mallette a former d-man and one of the toughest guys in the WHL I hope can bring some toughness into the Vipers lineup, stressing to be more physical and play with a rugged style.  

Here is a look at the Vipers current and possible roster to date.

Defence:

Jason Bird (93)
Mark Hamilton (94)
Josh Bryan (93)
Kenny Citron (95)
Bryce Eviston (94)
Ryan Renz (93)
Michael Statchuk (94)
Jordan Klimek (95)

Forwards:

Mason Blacklock (94)
Tyler Povelofskie (96)
Liam Board (93)
Demico Hannoun (95)
Dexter Dancs (95)
TJ Dumonceaux (94)
Craig Martin (95)
Mitch McAllister (94)
Liam Coughlin  (95)
Logan Mick (96)
Brendan Persley (93)
Matt Saharchuk  (95)
Braeden Russell (93)
Colton Sparrow (93)
Michael McNicholas (94)

Goaltenders:

Austin Smith (93)
Danny Todosychuk (94)

Saturday, June 22, 2013

Millionaires Trade Former Vipers Goaltender Walkaluk To La Ronge:

The Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League (SJHL) Melville Millionaires have traded former Vernon Vipers goaltender Alex Wakaluk to the SJHL La Ronge Ice Wolves.  Wakaluk finished his second season with the Mills going 28-15-3 with five shutouts and a 2.32 GAA.  Wakaluk led all goalies in wins and was second in both minutes played and shutouts. Wakaluk faced more rubber than any other goalie in the SJHL, seeing an average of well over 32 shots a night.  Walkaluk was a late addition to the Vipers 2011 pre-season roster but was released prior to the start of the 2011-12 BCHL regular season.  Walkaluk signed with Melville on September, 27th 2011. 

Alex Wakaluk's Player Profile:

http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=145226

This is posted on the Ice Wolves website:

Ice Wolves pick up SJHL MVP Wakaluk in Boyer/Ritchie Trade

05/19/2013

By La Ronge Ice Wolves

Wakaluk now an Ice Wolf
The La Ronge Ice Wolves 2013/14 Season has gotten off to a great start as the Wolves have picked up the 2013 SJHL MVP Alex Wakaluk from the Melville Millionaires as part of the deal that sent Brennan Ritchie and Nathan Boyer to the Mils last year.

Wakaluk who has played for the Mils for the last 2 seasons posted a 28-15-3 record with 5 shutouts last season.  His GAA was a sparkling 2.32 and his save percentage was .930.

The Ice Wolves still have two remaining players to name to complete the trade with Melville.

The Ice Wolves organization and their fans welcome Alex to La Ronge.

Friday, June 21, 2013

Mallette Brings Playoff Touch To Vernon Viper Bench:

This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:

Mallette brings playoff touch to Vernon Viper bench

By Graeme Corbett - Vernon Morning Star

Published: June 21, 2013

Vernon Vipers’ head coach/GM Jason Williamson had a coaching vacancy that needed filling. He didn’t have to look far to find the right candidate.

Williamson plucked Kris Mallette from the North Okanagan Junior B Knights as his associate coach for the coming B.C. Hockey League season.

Mallette, a former enforcer with the WHL Kelowna Rockets, has shown himself worthy of the promotion through his work with the Knights. Over two seasons as head coach, he guided North Okanagan to a 69-30-2-3 record, culminating in an appearance in the league final against the Castlegar Rebels in late March. He was named KIJHL Coach of the Year.

Williamson had the chance to watch a couple Knights’ games last season, and he was impressed with Mallette’s style – firm, but fair.

“That’s how you have to be nowadays,” said Williamson. “You need to make sure these kids are held accountable and that they just can’t have their way out there.”

Between Williamson, Mallette and returning assistant coach Dave Robinson, the Vipers have one of the toughest coaching staffs in junior hockey. Williamson hopes to have a little of that rub off on his players.

“We played against each other in the Central League the one year I played pro down there in Shreveport (Mudbugs),” said Williamson. “He was in Laredo (Bucks). I’m surprised we didn’t tangle.

“We want to be owly, and we want to be a real tough team to play against. We want to bring some of our characteristics out in our team.”

Mallette, a Philadelphia Flyers’ draft who carved out a 10-year career as a minor pro defenceman, will oversee the Vipers’ blueline. He fills the hole left by assistant coach Jason (JR) Read, who was unable to work with the Vipers full-time due to other commitments.

With Vernon hosting the RBC Cup national championships, the 32-year-old Williamson felt it necessary to enlist another experienced coach who could focus solely on the team. As an associate, he will also have a hand in trades, cuts and other hockey operations.

Mallette, 34, has watched the Vipers struggle the past two seasons, missing the playoffs both years. He said to do so this season would be catastrophic.

“You don’t want to be the Saskatoon Blades (2013 MasterCard Memorial Cup hosts),” said Mallette. “You don’t want to be sitting around for 50-odd days waiting for the RBC to start.

“You want to put a team together that’s playing in the playoffs and doing it the right way.”

Mallette noted that when Williamson traded star forwards Adam Tambellini and Aaron Hadley at the BCHL carding deadline, there was a shakeup in the team’s attitude.

“The team had success because the accountability was there,” said Mallette. “If you weren’t playing the way Jason wanted you to play, you were going to sit on the bench.

“With the talent we’ve got coming in, on any given night, your so-called fourth line could be playing first-line minutes and we’d still be doing very, very well.”

Williamson said part of the Vipers’ year-end transformation was due in part to his ability to put down his stamp as head coach.

“I came from being an assistant, and some of those guys still looked at me like that,” said Williamson. “We saw the team change a lot towards the end and that’s just a lot of me holding them accountable.”

Combining returnees and other players coming to the Viper den via trades and signings, Vernon has 25 bodies, plus main camp tryouts, auditioning for roster spots.

Mallette said it will be crucial to find the right mix of talent and character.

“The whole culture in the room can sway a team either way,” he said. “Not necessarily are we going to take the best players because that doesn’t necessarily make the best team.”

Along with Knights’ forward Matty Saharchuk, who signed with Vernon last week, Mallette has previously worked with returning forwards Logan Mick and TJ Dumonceaux.

The Viper’ main camp begins Monday, Aug. 19.

Thursday, June 20, 2013

Junior Hockey Teams Now Making Players Pay To Play:

This has nothing to do with the Vernon Vipers or the BCHL but I thought this was a very interesting and good article.  I found a link to this article on Gregg Drinnan's Blog.  The OJHL will now be charging players to play.  It is suggested it would likely be between $3,000 and $4,000 for next season.  Will we see this in the BCHL or through out the rest of the Junior A Teams across Canada in the future? 

This was on theSpec.com website:

OJHL teams to make players pay-to-play

May 17, 2013  

League says rising costs forcing their hand, but players getting value

Fans won't be the only ones paying to get into Ontario Junior Hockey League games next season.

Players will be, too, after the junior A loop — which also includes the Burlington Cougars and Hamilton Red Wings — recently removed a bylaw that prevented teams from making players pay to suit up for an OJHL franchise.

A formal announcement of the change in policy has yet to be made by the OJHL, but league officials have confirmed to the Oakville Beaver that teams will have the right to choose what fee their players will pay, with no maximum imposed on the amount. Oakville Blades general manager Duncan Harvey said his squad has yet to determine how much it will charge, but suggested it would likely be between $3,000 and $4,000 for the upcoming year — in addition to the $300 players already pay to the Ontario Hockey Association and $750 to the OJHL.

"The problem we have is that we have three very different distinctive business models in this league. You have your small towns like Wellington, you have more rural communities, and then you have the (Greater Toronto Area). Having one model for everybody, you can't really do it," said OJHL commissioner Marty Savoy. "We need to let the onus be on the teams themselves to decide how to operate their businesses."

And business in recent years has not been good for OJHL owners. Savoy believes no franchise in the league turned a profit this past season. Losses for some teams are believed to be as high as six figures.

"The problem is this model," Harvey said. "The model is based on $60 an hour for ice and $10 wood sticks. We're paying $150 a stick and every kid needs six sticks (a league minimum for teams to provide players). Throughout the course of a season, if you carry 26 guys, that's a big chunk of money. Plus, paying $250 an hour for ice, you practise for one-and-a-half hours and your game ice is $750, it adds up pretty quickly.

"Plus, we have to pay our coaching staff and equipment guy. Our budget is nothing crazy, about $300,000. But there's nothing coming in."

Paid attendance remains a major issue for the OJHL, particularly in the GTA. Even though the Blades drew the most fans in the league, averaging nearly 600 per contest, many of those tickets were free.

"We're only pulling in roughly $1,200 on a game night. That's just enough to pay for our game night," said Harvey, who dropped ticket prices this past season in his first year as Oakville's GM. "That doesn't cover any of our practices, staff, equipment or anything else."

Another challenge the OJHL faces is the lack of subsidy from higher leagues. According to Harvey, OJHL teams receive $1,500 from Ontario Hockey League squads when they develop a player who moves on to the OHL. But OJHL teams, according to Harvey and Savoy, do not receive any reimbursement from colleges or even from the National Hockey League when players graduate to those levels.

"We're operating at around $8,000 a player. That's our cost. He plays with us, we train him up. … If he gets a scholarship — a full-ride, $50,000-value-a-year scholarship — we get back nothing, " Harvey said. "Apparently that's OK."

Might players leave for other leagues?

The OJHL's case for charging players seems clear. But how will players respond to having to pay for something they and their predecessors have always enjoyed for free?

"It's kind of a turnoff to return to that league, because it used to be free, and every year I've noticed the costs going up and up and up," said Len Fabbri, a three-year OJHL veteran, who played last season for the Blades.

"It's definitely discouraging, especially for the older guys," he added. "The younger guys are used to paying to play. But us older guys feel like we paid our dues and we can use all the help we can get."

It's not as though players don't have options. The Greater Ontario Junior Hockey League, a junior B circuit in southwestern Ontario, does not charge its players. Perhaps implementing a pay-to-play structure in the OJHL will result in a mass exodus to the GOJHL, which Savoy admits is "the strongest junior B loop in the country by far."

Savoy, meanwhile, is confident that players will continue to choose the OJHL because of the exposure they receive.

"I don't think kids want to risk not being evaluated and seen by scouts. We've gone from 37 teams to 23 teams (due to contraction that began in 2009), and our number of Division 1 rides has stayed the same," Savoy said.

"If you're a kid looking to move on to the next level, you'll still play in this league. If you're not, maybe you'll go to junior B."

The numbers back up Savoy's claim. According to league statistics from the 2011-12 season, 85 OJHL alumni played for NHL clubs during the 2010-11 campaign. Another 140 OJHL grads played for NCAA Division 1 squads and 165 suited up at the Canadian Hockey League major junior level.

Savoy also justifies the pay-to-play model by pointing to quality assurances that will be imposed on teams next season. The league recently performed a 110-point audit on all its member franchises, ensuring minimum standards for all clubs to follow. Those requirements come with a significant price tag.

"The standards have now been set. The teams already know what they are. And there are costs associated with that," said Savoy, who was pleased the audit found the league's teams to be approximately 85 per cent compliant.

"Teams might have to practise two more times a week at $300 an hour. When you try to elevate standards to make a better product for the athlete, there's a cost. And to our owners' credit, they bought into these increases before these changes (to charge players)."

Oakville Beaver

Wednesday, June 19, 2013

Former Vipers Defenceman Bigos Becomes Unrestricted Free Agent:

According to the College Hockey News writer, Mike McMahon is reporting that former Vernon Vipers defenceman Kyle Bigos did not sign with the Edmonton Oilers and will become an unrestricted free agent this summer.  Bigos finished his fourth and final year at Merrimack College.  In 30 regular season games this season Bigos collected (4-7-11).  Bigos played two seasons in Vernon (2007-2009) collecting (10-40-50) in 166 regular season games with the Vipers.  Bigos an assistant captain in his second and final season with the Vipers drafted 99th overall by the NHL Edmonton Oilers in the 4th round of the 2009 NHL Draft.  Bigos attended the Oilers Developement Camp two out of the last three years.

Kyle Bigos's Player Profile:

http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=101195

This is posted on Mike McMahon's hockey blog "The Mack Report"

Mack’s Mailbag for May 20, 2013

Posted on May 20, 2013 | in Mailbag | by Mike McMahon

What’s going on with Bigos? Did he sign or waiting out the end of the school year?

He did not sign with Edmonton and will become an unrestricted free agent this summer. According to someone within the Oilers’ organization, the team will likely extend him an invitation to NHL training camp if he does not sign with another NHL franchise before the start of camp.

Tuesday, June 18, 2013

Coughlin Commits To Vipers:

This is posted on the Vipers website:

Centreman Coughlin Commited to Vipers

Tuesday, June 18, 2013 - Submitted by Vipers Staff

JUNE 18th, 2013

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The Vernon Vipers Hockey Club is pleased to announce that Liam Coughlin, a 95 born forward from South Boston has committed to come to Vernon. Coughlin has played last season at Catholic Memorial High School. Catholic Memorial has produced several Viper players as of late which include Marc Hetnik, Mike Collins and Garrett Noonan.

Coughlin, a 6’4 and 195lb centre, had 27 goals and 24 assists in 21 games played for Catholic Memorial last season. Coach Hanson was very high on Liam and said that he might be the best player he has had play for him at CM.

Liam was also named Massachusetts Division 1 player of the Year and was taken 30th overall by Dubuque of the USHL. Coughlin attended the Montreal Canadiens Pro Draft Camp at the beginning of June and is garnering a lot of attention for the upcoming NHL draft.

Head Coach Jason Williamson is very excited about landing Liam and says “Liam is a player we have been after for quite some time. He is a big body that can score but also plays with an edge that most players from South Boston have. He will add a lot of versatility to our lineup.”

For further information please contact the Vernon Vipers office at 250 542 6022.

Michael Roberts Interview:

Surrey Eagles play by play guy Brendan Batchelor interview's
former Vernon Vipers forward Michael Roberts.  Roberts one of the newest members of the Surrey Eagles was recently traded to Surrey as part of the Adam Tambellini trade.  On January, 10th 2013 the Vipers sent Adam Tambellini & future considerations (Michael Roberts) to the the Eagles for Mason Blacklock & future considerations (Demico Hannoun & Jordan Klimek).  In 53 games with thie Vipers this season Roberts collected (4-6-10).

Michael Roberts Player Profile:

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/rosters_profile.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&teamID=378208&playerID=823421

Michael Roberts Interview:

http://surreyeaglesinsider.blogspot.ca/2013/06/michael-roberts-interview.html

Monday, June 17, 2013

Everblades Add Former Vipers Goaltender Deckert To Teams Protected List:

On Monday, June 3rd the East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) announced the Protected Lists as submitted by each of its member teams. The ECHL Florida Everblades have twenty five players listed on their protected list one of is former Vernon Vipers goaltender Jesse Deckert.
Deckert signed with the Everblades on March, 20th 2013 after signing a amateur tryout agreement on March 6th 2013. In eleven games with Florida this year Deckert went 9-1-1 with a 2.40 GAA

Deckert spent the past four years at the University of Manitoba actually never played with the Vipers. Deckert left the WHL Tri-City Americans in November of 2004 joining the MJHL Swan Valley Stampeders. Deckert never actually played with the Stampeders before coming to Vernon where he practised with the Vipers before signing with the Salmon Arm Silverbacks where he would finish the 2004-2005 season.

Jesse Deckert's Player Profile:

http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=69065

This is posted on the Everblades website:

Everblades Announce Protected List

June 3, 2013

ESTERO, FL – The Florida Everblades announced their protected list of players of on Monday. The Everblades have protected 25 players on its list, which is comprised of 14 forwards, nine defensemen, and two goaltenders. 

The announcement of the protected lists is the first step for ECHL teams in building their rosters for the 2013-14 season.  Teams are allowed to protect as many players as they wish provided the players protected meet the guidelines as defined in the Collective Bargaining Agreement between the ECHL and the Professional Hockey Players’ Association which state that teams shall retain the rights to each player that:

1. Signed an SPC in 2012-13 with the Member, and has not been traded or released, OR

2. Signed an SPC in 2012-13, and was recalled to the NHL/AHL or IIHF team, and has not been traded or released, OR

3. Had received a Qualifying Offer last summer for the current Season, DID NOT sign an SPC, and has not been traded or released, OR

4. Has been suspended by the Member or League, and has not been traded or released, OR

5. Signed an SPC on or after the first day of the 2012-13 Regular Season, then subsequently signed an NHL/AHL contract, and has not been traded or released, OR

6. Has executed the ECHL Retirement Form, and has not been traded or released.

Protected lists may exceed 20 players.

The ECHL also announced that teams must complete all Future Consideration trades by 3 p.m. ET on June 13 and that teams must submit their Season-Ending Roster by 3 p.m. ET on June 15.

Season-ending rosters may include up to 20 players and cannot include any players who did not sign an ECHL contract in 2012-13.

The following is a complete list of players protected by the Everblades. 

Forwards (14)

Mike Merrifield
Corey Trivino
Shawn O’Donnell
Daniel Koger
Adam Brace
Brandon MacLean
Trevor Bruess
Leigh Salters
Brayden Irwin
Patrick Knowlton
Mathieu Roy
Matthew Pistilli
Matt Marquardt
Luc Tardif

Defensemen (9)

Bobby Raymond
Mike Cornell
Tyson Gimblett
Mike Ratchuk
Maury Edwards
Olivier Dame-Malka
Brent Henley
Mike Brennan
David Fischer

Goaltenders (2)

Jesse Deckert
Cody Reichard

Sunday, June 16, 2013

Kal Tire Great Sponsor For Arena:

As of June 1st 2013 Kal Tire took over major sponsorship of the arena, formerly known as Wesbild Centre.  The arena first know as the Vernon Multi-Plex first opened its doors back in October of 2001 when the Vernon Vipers returned home froma ten game road trip to start the 2001-2002 BCHL regular season.  The Vipers hosted the Salmon Arm Silverbacks (first year in the league) Mark Nelson's overtime winning goal sent the sell-out crowd home happy as the Vipers picked up just there third win of the season with a 3-2 OT win.

It was on March, 7th 2008 when Wesbild Holdings Limited aquired the naming rights to the arena and took over the new name of the Vernon Multi-Plex.  It was this past hockey season when there was talks that Wesbild was thinking of not re-newing there contract, when Kal Tire come to the plate and signed a new four year contract in April to become the new name-sponsor of the arena.

This is a great choice, and the first choice I had in mind before the arena was even finished being built.  They were looking for a sponsor-name before the arena was built.  I had thought a big major local company like Kal Tire who started here in Vernon would be the perfect fit.

If you take a drive by the rink these days you will notice there are no name or signage on the front of the arena.  The new name-signs will be installed sometime in July. 

With the new name-new sponsor I hope Kal Tire and the arena management can get together and work on sprucing the rink up-doing some major ugrading, especially with the Vipers hosting the 2014 Royal Bank Cup next May.

A few weeks ago they have placed new cabinets to the arena for the Okanagan sports Hall of fame, wich look great!  It would be great to see more added over the next several months and through out the year.  The previous ones that were added the second year the arena was open are way over due for a new look-new photos and articles etc.  Something I would like to see is more photos and articles on Junior hockey here in Vernon.  Junior hockey is a big part of the City of Vernon, having some of the best Junior teams across Canada over the years, winning six National Championships and they dont really have much in these display cases on any of this.  I think they have two boxes but not alot on the Lakers-Vipers history wich is the main tennant for the building.  It would also be nice to see a plaque or some kind of display put up on when the arena opened, when the first ever Vipers game was played there, the score, who won, maybe a ticket or puck or program from that game.  Something for people who are new to town or just visiting the rink for the first time.

With Kal Tire being the major sponsor it would also be nice to see those very small now outdated tvs replaced around the rink and in the beer gardens.  Those are a joke!  My computer monitor is bigger then those little tvs.  Have you gone for a beer in the beer gardens and tried watching the hockey game shown on one of them tvs.  Only one of the three along the wall work and it barley works as it has big black lines coming across the screen.  If you walk around the rink during a Vipers game, some of the tvs around the concourse arnt even turned on.  This is very sad, and with the RBC Cup next season the City and arena will be the laughing stock of the tournament.  I was hoping somebody like Andres or Future shop etc would come along and make some kind of an offer to the arena and work out a deal to get some new flat screens put in.

Not including hockey, It would also be great to see some more concerts, shows and events etc come to the arena, something that has lacked since the day the building opened.  Can you tell me the last concert that was held there?  Its pretty sad!

Saturday, June 15, 2013

League AGM Produces Several Noteworthy Items:

This is posted on the BCHL website:

League AGM produces several noteworthy items

Thursday, June 13, 2013 - Submitted by BCHL Media

 The British Columbia Hockey League completed its 2013 annual general meeting last week in Richmond with a number of changes made to the administration of the league moving forward.

First, the league will conduct a 58-game season in 2013-14. Each club will play two games that count in the standings at the Bauer BCHL Showcase Sept. 6 to 8 in Chilliwack and then play 28 home and 28 away dates to complete the regular season.

There is currently no playoff structure that has been agreed upon for the upcoming campaign. Teams are being asked to submit their ideas and a format will be announced prior to the Showcase.

Second, the BCHL has changed its media policy surrounding the Jan. 10 roster deadline. For any given transaction, teams will be allowed to release information to media as soon as they have made the league office aware that all players involved in that transaction have been notified.

Third, with the BCHL signing an equipment agreement with Bauer, all players must use the Bauer Supreme Team Stick. Failure to comply will result in severe financial penalties to the club. These will escalate with repeat offences. For protective gear, teams are allowed to use up remaining new equipment from previous seasons with the understanding that future orders will be made through Bauer.

Finally, NHL linesman Brad Lazarowich has officially joined the league’s officiating program as the associate director of officiating to head director Derek Adams. Lazarowich was able to monitor and provide mentorship to young officials last season during the NHL lockout and will continue to be a resource to the BCHL in developing the officiating program.

The BCHL regular season schedule was formed tentatively among the coaches and governors at the AGM; as there are several dates that need to be rearranged between teams, the league hopes to have the final schedule out before the end of June.

Friday, June 14, 2013

Royal Bank Cup Trophy Makes Stop In Vernon:

This is on the Morning Star website:

Royal Bank Cup trophy makes a stop in Vernon

By Staff Writer - Vernon Morning Star

Published: June 14, 2013

Junior hockey's holy grail is coming to town.

The Royal Bank Cup trophy, which is awarded to the top junior hockey team in Canada, will be at the RBC Cup booth at the Sunshine Festival in downtown Vernon Saturday.

"At the booth in front of the Royal Bank, a puck shoot contest will pit shooters against Viper goalie Danny Todosychuk," said Mike Lane, committee chairperson.

"Prizes for the puck shoot and for a Viper/Laker trivia contest will include Viper gear and souvenirs."

Viper players will also sign autographs and will take turns in a dunk tank.

 The RBC Cup trophy will also be seen at scenic viewpoints in the North Okanagan so it can be photographed for publicity releases.

 The national junior hockey championships are set for May 10 to 18, 2014 at Vernon's Kal Tire Place.

Vipers Add Two More Pieces For RBC Cup Run:

This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:

Vipers add two more pieces for RBC Cup run

By Graeme Corbett - Vernon Morning Star

Published: June 14, 2013

Matty Saharchuk has had an eye on the Vernon Vipers ever since he moved down from Fort St. James to play hockey with the Pursuit of Excellence Academy in Kelowna in 2010.

It turns out the Vipers were also keeping tabs on Saharchuk over the past season, watching him enjoy a breakout year with the North Okanagan Junior B Knights.

Vernon head coach/GM Jason Williamson signed the 18-year-old forward this week for the coming BCHL season.

Williamson also plucked defenceman Kenny Citron, also a 1995-born player, from the Team Comcast Under 18 program that competes in the Atlantic Youth Hockey League.

Saharchuk was a beast for North Okanagan last season. Strong on the puck and always willing to drive to the net, the 6-foot-2, 185-pound forward recorded 32 goals and 28 assists in 50 games.

He added 6-9-15 in 13 playoff games in helping the Knights reach their first-ever KIJHL final. He also played two BCHL games as a call-up with the Salmon Arm SilverBacks.

Regarding his stellar season, Saharchuk said: “My coaches (Kris Mallette and Shawn Webb) really supported me and gave me the ice time I needed to get my confidence to that next level.

“I was just finishing my plays and doing all the little things right that helped me in my season.”

Williamson said Saharchuk’s skill set, combined with his eagerness to join the club, made it a straightforward decision to sign him.

“He reached out and wanted to be a Viper even before we got on to him. In that kind of situation, that’s when you get the best out of a player.

“By the end of the year he was probably North OK’s most dangerous player.”

Saharchuk said the Knights’ journey to the KIJHL final will help him prepare for next season as Vernon hosts the RBC Cup national championships in 2014.

“I had never been in playoffs before with a junior team,” said Saharchuk, who was listed by the WHL Everett Silvertips. “It really shows you what it takes to last that long and how you need to prepare yourself every day.”

Citron comes to the Viper den from Lawrenceville School, a prep academy near Princeton, N.J., where he played hockey and field lacrosse. Originally from Hartsdale N.Y. (near Manhattan), Citron was captain of Team Comcast that competed in the 2013 U.S. nationals. He collected 10 assists in 14 games (16-game season).

The 6-foot-1, 195-pounder is committed to the NCAA Colgate Raiders following his junior career.

“I just want to show up everyday ready to work hard and contribute that way,” said Citron. “I’m a pretty physical, puck-moving defenceman. I find a forward, make the play.”

Asked who he is taking in the Stanley Cup final, Citron replied: “I hate to say it, but I think I’m going to be rooting for Boston. I’m a Rangers fan, but they’re playing so well and they’re fun to watch. That’s what you need to win championships.”

Williamson travelled to Buffalo to scout the U18 U.S. nationals and was immediately impressed by Citron.

“From the first time I saw Kenny play I really liked his game. He’s got some bite to his game, and he’s a tremendous leader.”

With the recent influx of players coming in – Vernon has acquired six in the last month through commitments and trades – some of the returning players will be hard-pressed to keep their roster spots. The Vipers are already two over the six allowed 20-year-old players.

“I don’t want to put them all in a panic, but we still have too many bodies,” said Williamson. “We need some competition and we need  guys battling for jobs. I think it’s a healthy environment.”

“These guys are competitors and they’re going to come ready to play.”

Viper main camp begins Monday, Aug. 19.

Thursday, June 13, 2013

Former Vernon Viper Tambellini Knows The Drill At Scouting Combine:

Former Vernon Vipers forward Adam Tambellini was in Toronto two weekends ago and was put through the paces of the NHL scouting combine.  Here is a article I found on Tambellini on NHL.com  Tambellini was listed at #42 heading into the scouting combine. Tambellini had the lowest body fat (5.0 percent) and the lowest sum of skinfolds (14 mm). Tambellini finished one spot ahead of Jonathan Drouin in both categories. Tambellini played his first year with the Vipers last season before being traded to Surrey on the BCHL trade deadline in January for Mason Blacklock and future considerations. Tambellini is off to the University of North Dakota next season.

Adam Tambellini's Player Profile:

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/rosters_profile.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&teamID=378208&playerID=821203

This is posted on NHL.com

Tambellini knows the drill at Scouting Combine

Thursday, 05.30.2013

By Mike G. Morreale - NHL.com Staff Writer / Combing the 2013 NHL Combine

TORONTO -- It's pretty safe to assume that center Adam Tambellini of the Surrey Eagles in the British Columbia Hockey League had a good idea what questions would be asked during team interviews at the 2013 NHL Scouting Combine.

As the son of former Edmonton Oilers general manager Steve Tambellini, the 6-foot-2.25, 169-pound left-handed shot had quite the advantage.

"We had a little demo going at home, and it was cool to hear what he had to say about it and what they're looking for because he used to be the one asking the questions," Tambellini told NHL.com, referencing his father. "It was nice to lean on him for some help, and I think it worked out."

Tambellini, No. 42 in NHL Central Scouting's final ranking of North American skaters for the 2013 NHL Draft, scored the game-winning goal in double overtime for the Eagles in a series-clinching 3-2 victory against the defending league champion Penticton Vees on April 21. He called it the most memorable moment of his career.

"Winning the BCHL championship was a massive thing for our team, especially going up against a good team in Penticton," Tambellini said. "They were skilled and had a lot of firepower, but I think we felt we were the deeper team and it was nice to get that goal in double OT."

The Fred Page Cup title was the fourth in franchise history and first for Surrey since 2005.

Tambellini was listed as a "B" prospect at the start of the season when he was with the Vernon Vipers; he was traded to Surrey on Jan. 10. The University of North Dakota recruit had 36 goals and 65 points in 52 games for Vernon and Surrey. In 16 games with Surrey, he had 14 goals and 26 points. He added 10 goals and 18 points in 17 playoff games for the Eagles.

"He's a lot like his bloodlines," Central Scouting's B.J. MacDonald said of Tambellini. "He's very good with the puck and has really nice size. People were waiting for the trade, and at Christmas his game took off. He's got an NHL shot and can score … he has a nice wrist shot as well. He can beat goalies clean from the dots on that wrister. He's got a quick release, is efficient and intelligent."

He's the top player from the BCHL in NHL Central Scouting's final ranking and is honored to be a part of the Combine. He won't be testing on any of the lower-body events at the fitness portion of the week -- he sustained a minor injury in the second round of the playoffs -- but he will test in the upper-body activities.

"I look at myself as an offensive center," he said. "I like to play both ends of the rink and like to shoot the puck as much as possible. Hopefully I get an opportunity to dish to my linemates too."

He said he's excited to be headed to college in the fall.

"I'll leave for North Dakota around mid-August, and I'm really excited to get going there and being a part of the great tradition," he said. "I think they produce so many good players out of that program. Look at their top guys, like [Jonathan] Toews and [Zach] Parise. It's cool to see what they're doing now in the NHL … they're obviously great people off the ice as well."

Wednesday, June 12, 2013

Citron & Saharchuk Commit To Vipers:

This is posted on the Vipers website:

Vipers Announce More Commitments

Tuesday, June 11, 2013 - Submitted by Vipers Staff

JUNE 11TH, 2013

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The Vernon Vipers Hockey club is pleased to announce two commitments for the upcoming season. Kenny Citron, an 18 year old defenseman, and Matt Saharchuk, an 18 year old forward, have both committed to play for the Vipers in the upcoming season.

Citron, who hails from Hartsdale New York, was captain of Team Comcast last season that competed in the USA Nationals. He is also committed to Colgate University following his junior career. The 6’1” 195lb defenseman plays a very physical game and is an intense competitor. “From the first time I saw Kenny play I really liked his game. He is very physical and hard to play against. He will be a great player in our league” says Head Coach Jason Williamson.

Saharchuk, a native of Fort St. James, played last season for the North Okanagan Knights of the KIJHL. The 6’2 200lb forward scored 32 goals and 28 assists in 50 games played last season. “Matty is one of the players who just got better and better as the season went along. Each time I watched him play he was more and more dominant. He will add size and offense to our team” says Jason Williamson.

The Vipers would like to welcome both players to the team. For further information please contact the Vipers office at 250 542 6022.

K-Wings Add Former Vipers Forward Strong To Teams Protected List:

On Monday, June 3rd the East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) announced the Protected Lists as submitted by each of its member teams. The ECHL Kalamazoo Wings have twenty one players listed on their protected list one of is former Vernon Vipers forward Dean Strong.

Kalamazoo Wings Protected List:

Ryan Daniels, Joel Martin, Kyle Page, Brandon Martell, Mitch Versteeg, Michael Matczak, Joe Charlebois, Elgin Reid, Sam Ftorek, Eric Kattelus, Mike Leone, Tyler Shelast, Dustin Cloutier, Wesley Myron, Kory Karlander, Nicholas Sirota, Aaron Clarke, John Armstrong, Brett Lysak, Brian Bicek & Dean Strong

Strong finished his second season with the American Hockey League's (AHL) Lake Erie Monsters. Strong started this season with the Monsters before being assigned to the CHL Denver Cutthroats on December, 6th playing in three games picking up one goal before being sent back to Lake Erie on December, 13th. In thirty six games with Lake Erie this season Strong collected (5-8-13).

Strong played last season with the East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) Kalamazoo
Wings, AHL Chicago Wolves and the AHL Lake Erie Monsters. Strong started the 2011-12 season with the ECHL Kalamazoo Wings. In November 2011 Strong was loaned to the AHL Chicago Wolves. In five games with the Wolves Strong collected (0-3-3) before returning to Kalamazoo. On December 15th 2011 Strong was loaned to the AHL Lake Erie Monsters where he would finish the season. In 49 games with the Monsters Strong collected (4-10-14). Strong returned to Kalamazoo after the Monsters missed the playoffs where he finished the remainder of the season. In 21 games with the Wings Strong collected (11-12-23). Strong played one year in Vernon (2004-05) collecting (35-56-91) with the Vipers.

Dean Strong's Player Profile:

http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=83858

This is posted on the Wings website:

June 3, 2013 - Mike Modugno

Director of Public Relations and Broadcaster

Kalamazoo, MI- The Kalamazoo Wings, proud member of the ECHL and National Hockey League affiliate to the Vancouver Canucks, and American Hockey League’s Chicago Wolves announce the club’s ECHL protected list.

Teams are allowed to protect as many players as they wish provided the players protected meet the guidelines as defined in the Collective Bargaining Agreement between the ECHL and the Professional Hockey Players’ Association which state that teams shall retain the rights to each player that:

Teams are allowed to protect as many players as they wish provided the players protected meet the guidelines as defined in the Collective Bargaining Agreement between the ECHL and the Professional Hockey Players’ Association which state that teams shall retain the rights to each player that:

1. Signed an SPC in 2012-13 with the Member, and has not been traded or released, OR

2. Signed an SPC in 2012-13, and was recalled to the NHL/AHL or IIHF team, and has not been traded or released, OR

3. Had received a Qualifying Offer last summer for the current Season, DID NOT sign an SPC, and has not been traded or released, OR

4. Has been suspended by the Member or League, and has not been traded or released, OR

5. Signed an SPC on or after the first day of the 2012-13 Regular Season, then subsequently signed an NHL/AHL contract, and has not been traded or released, OR

6. Has executed the ECHL Retirement Form, and has not been traded or released.

Protected lists may exceed 20 players.

The ECHL also announced that teams must complete all Future Consideration trades by 3 p.m. ET on June 13 and that teams must submit their Season-Ending Roster by 3 p.m. ET on June 15.

Season-ending rosters may include up to 20 players and cannot include any players who did not sign an ECHL contract in 2012-13.

Tuesday, June 11, 2013

BCHL Releases Showcase Schedule:

This is posted on the BCHL website:

BCHL releases the schedule for September's Bauer BCHL Showcase

Monday, June 10, 2013 - Submitted by BCHL Media

The BCHL has finalized the schedule for September's Bauer BCHL Showcase, being hosted for the second consecutive year at Chilliwack's Prospera Centre.
The Showcase schedule was an item on the recent BCHL annual general meeting last week in Richmond.

Each club will play two games that count towards the regular season standings. Last year at the inaugural event, there were close to 200 scouts from the college and professional ranks taking in the action.

The 2013 event runs from Friday, Sept. 6 to Sunday, Sept. 8. Games will be split between Prospera Centre's main and secondary sheets of ice.
Bauer Showcase Schedule (home team listed second in each matchup):

Friday, Sept. 6:

3:30 p.m. - Secondary Rink - Penticton Vees vs. Victoria Grizzlies
4:00  p.m. - Main Rink -  Merritt Centennials vs. Coquitlam Express
7:00 p.m. - Secondary Rink - Trail Smoke Eaters vs. Langley Rivermen
7:30 p.m. - Main Rink - Surrey Eagles vs. West Kelowna Warriors

Saturday, Sept. 7:

11:30 a.m. - Secondary Rink - Vernon Vipers vs. Surrey Eagles
12:00 p.m. - Main Rink - Victoria Grizzlies vs. Salmon Arm SilverBacks
3:00 p.m. - Secondary Rink - West Kelowna Warriors vs. Nanaimo Clippers
3:30 p.m. - Main Rink - Alberni Valley Bulldogs vs. Penticton Vees
6:30 p.m. - Secondary Rink - Prince George Spruce Kings vs. Cowichan Valley Capitals
7:00 p.m. - Main Rink - Powell River Kings vs. Chilliwack Chiefs

Sunday, Sept. 8:

10:30 a.m. - Secondary Rink - Salmon Arm SilverBacks vs. Powell River Kings
11:00 a.m. - Main Rink - Coquitlam Express vs. Alberni Valley Bulldogs
2:00 p.m. - Secondary Rink - Nanaimo Clippers vs. Prince George Spruce Kings
2:30 p.m. - Main Rink - Cowichan Valley Capitals vs. Trail Smoke Eaters
5:30 p.m. - Secondary Rink - Langley Rivermen vs. Merritt Centennials
6:00 p.m. - Main Rink - Chilliwack Chiefs. vs. Vernon Vipers

Monday, June 10, 2013

Bobcats Name Former Vipers Twins Assistant Captains:

The Quinnipiac Bobcats have named former Vernon Viper
forwards Kellen & Connor Jones assistant captains for next season.   The Jones twins finished their third season with the Quinnipiac Bobcats. Connor and Kellen both played four years in Vernon (2006-2010). In 163 regular season games with the Vipers Connor collected (80-118-198) Connor also is the Vipers all-time franchise points leader (regular season & playoffs) with 228 & all-time franchise goals leader (regular season & playoffs) with 95. while in 154 regular season games with the Vipers Kellen collected (39-134-173). Kellen is also the all-time franchise assists leader (regular season & playoffs) with 150.

Connor Jones Player Profile:

http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=113610

Kellen Jones Player Profile:

http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=113607

This is posted on the Bobcats website:

Hibbeler Named Quinnipiac Captain for 2013-14 Season

April 30, 2013

Quinnipiac forward Cory Hibbeler has been announced as the Bobcats' captain for the upcoming 2013-14 season by head coach Rand Pecknold. Pecknold also announced that twin brothers Connor and Kellen Jones will serve as assistant captains for their senior year.

"It is an honor to be voted captain for next season," Hibbeler said. "There are a bunch of leaders in our locker room and a group of guys with great character. I am excited to be selected and also for next season."

Hibbeler will be the 39th captain in Quinnipiac men's ice hockey history, after wearing the "A" for his junior year in 2012-13. Hibbeler matched his career high of six goals in 2012-13 while also assisting on five goals for a career-best 11 points in 36 games played. The Bobcats enjoyed a 6-0-0 record when Hibbeler scored a goal and a 10-0-0 record when he registered a point. Hibbeler scored in a 4-0 win against Robert Morris on Oct. 13 and also in a 4-1 win against Cornell on Nov. 10. He assisted on two goals in a 6-2 win at Clarkson on Nov. 17. After missing a month to injury, he returned with a goal against Dartmouth in a 3-2 overtime win on Jan. 4 and an assist against Harvard in a 6-2 win on Jan. 5. He also scored in both regular-season victories against Yale and also against Cornell in a 10-0 blow-out in the ECAC Hockey Quarterfinals.

Connor and Kellen Jones both served as assistant captains for their junior year in 2012-

Kellen finished the year with 13 goals and 15 assists for 28 points.  A seventh-round draft pick of the Edmonton Oilers in 2010, Jones has scored 35 goals while assisting on 50 more for 85 career points. Kellen had a three-game point streak in the NCAA Tournament in which he totaled two goals and three assists. He had one assist in the Bobcats' come-from-behind win against Canisius in Quinnipiac's first NCAA Tournament win in program history before following with a one-goal, two-assist performance in the NCAA Tournament East Regional final against Union to advance to the Frozen Four. He also helped Quinnipiac to its first NCAA National Championship Game with a goal in a 4-1 win against St. Cloud State.
13, after being named Co-Most Valuable Players in 2011-12. Connor finished the year with 12 goals and 14 assists for 16 points, while leading the team with five game-winning goals, and also ranked among the national leaders in face-offs won. Connor also had five multiple-point games including a goal and an assist in the Bobcats 4-3 win against Canisius in the NCAA Tournament East Regional and a two-assist night in a 5-1 win against Union in the East Regional final. For his career, he has 34 goals and 57 assists for 91 points.