Friday, May 31, 2013

Kal Tire Place Official:

This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:

Kal Tire Place official

By Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star

Published: May 31, 2013

The name change is almost reality.

It was announced in April that Kal Tire was taking over sponsorship rights of Greater Vernon’s multi-use facility, and the 43rd Avenue facility will officially be known as Kal Tire Place starting Saturday.

“It’s very exciting,”  said Tannis Nelson, the Regional District of North Okanagan’s community development co-ordinator.

“We’ve been hearing very positive feedback from the community.”

All indications of the former name — Wesbild Centre — have been removed but new Kal Tire Place signs won’t likely be installed until July.

However, the new name is being promoted in other forms.

“The website will be redirected to www.kaltireplace.ca as of Saturday,” said Nelson.

“Letterhead and promotional material is also all being updated.”

Kal Tire will pay $40,000 annually, over four years, to RDNO for the naming rights, but it has been given a $15,000 reduction in the first-year payment to help with the costs of signs for the building.

The agreement includes an option for Kal Tire to renew after four years.

With a new name in place, RDNO staff are also reviewing marketing and special event opportunities for the facility.

“We are looking at what’s working and where we can make improvements,” said Nelson.

Black Inks With Salmon Arm SilverBacks:

This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:

Black inks with Salmon Arm SilverBacks

Published: May 31, 2013

Aaron Volpatti, Chris Crowell, twins Connor and Kellen Jones, Hunter Bishop, Kyle Bigos, Adam Tambellini – these are all players who wore a Vernon Vipers’ jersey thanks in part to Larry Black.

As head scout for the Vipers for the last six years (he was a regional scout for five years before that), Black helped source the talent that won the Snakes back-to-back Royal Bank Cup Championships in 2009 and ‘10, plus a runner-up showing in ‘11.

Unable to come to a new contract agreement with the Vipers, Black, who turns 65 in July, will now be plying his trade with the rival Salmon Arm SilverBacks as their new assistant GM and director of player personnel.

“It was totally a financial decision,” said Vernon head coach/GM Jason Williamson.

“We wanted to keep Larry Black as part of the Vernon Vipers. We just couldn’t meet the financial needs, and Salmon Arm offered that and more.”

Black (affectionately known as Blackie to friends and colleagues) was also disappointed a deal couldn’t be reached, especially with Vernon hosting the RBC Cup in May 2014. But he understands the business side of junior hockey, and he is now looking forward to rekindling a partnership with Salmon Arm head coach/GM Troy Mick.

The two previously worked together when Mick coached Vernon from 1997-2000.

“It’s been a bit of a shock. It’s tough getting my head around going to work for another team,” said Black.

“But I’m excited to get back working with Troy. We’ve worked together well in the past and I respect his abilities as a general manager. It’s a good opportunity for me.”

Black’s appointment will help free up Mick to focus more on his duties as head coach. Last season, Mick stepped away from the bench early on to focus more on front office operations and scouting.

Said Mick: “Larry brings a wealth of knowledge to the SilverBacks, on and off the ice. He is a proven winner and has an eye for recruits like no other.”

Black, a Revelstoke native, ran the Grizzlies Junior B program there for six years in the 90s. At the time, the team was affiliated with Mike Vandekamp’s Merritt Centennials, and when Vandekamp joined the Vipers as head coach in 2001-02, he brought Black on as a regional scout.

Black lives in Vernon with wife Gay (he has three grown children and five grandchildren all living in the area), and has worked with five Vernon head coaches in 11 years – Vandekamp, Mick, Bernie Pimm, Mark Holick, Mark Ferner and Williamson.

In place of a head scout, Williamson plans to use a system of regional talent seekers throughout North America to assess players. He added this is typical of how other BCHL teams operate.

Meanwhile, the SilverBacks announced the finalized sale of the team by Randy Williams to a new ownership group led by majority owner Dale Unruh of Fort MacMurray.

Unruh is the CEO of the Quality Group of Companies and is on the executive committee of Edge School society board, an Alberta sports academy located near Calgary.

“Our group is extremely proud and grateful to be involved with the Salmon Arm SilverBacks and the Salmon Arm community at large,” said Unruh, who will also serve as the SilverBacks’ governor.

Thursday, May 30, 2013

Eddie Johnstone Returns:

Here is a article that I received In my RBC Cup Newsletter on former Vernon Lakers Head Coach Eddie Johnstone.  Johnstone was an Assistant Coach with the Vernon Lakers during the 1987-1988 season before taking over as Head Coach during the 1988-1989 season after the firing of former Head Coach Ernie Gare.  Johnstone went on to coach the Lakers from 1987 to 1992 before moving onto the East Coast Hockey League's Johnstown Chiefs.  Johnstone was drafted #104 in the 6th Round by the NHL New York Rangers in the 1974 NHL Amateur Draft.

Eddie Johnstone's Player & Coaching Profile:

http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=2578

This was posted in the RBC Cup Newsletter:

Eddie Johnstone Returns

RBC Cup 2014 The Excitement Returns!

In the spring of 1990, Eddie Johnstone was the toast of the town.

He coached the Vernon Lakers to an upset win in the final of the 1990 Centennial Cup held in Vernon. His team did it in dramatic fashion against the heavily favoured New Westminster Bruins, erasing a three-goal deficit in the third period and winning the game 6-5 in overtime on Cam Sylven's breakaway goal.

"No question, it was one of the highlights of my hockey career," says Eddie. "We won again the next year, which was exciting, too. But it didn't have quite the same feeling as slaying the dragon in our barn."

"That 1990 win was especially sweet for me," he says, "because New West had fired me previously. But you should have seen the way this town celebrated. It was crazy!"

His coaching career followed a successful playing career that started in Vernon when he had 45 goals and 49 assists as a 16-year-old for the Vernon Essos in 1970- 71. After three years with the Medicine hat Tigers and a quick rise through the minor pro ranks, he played his first NHL game in 1976, for the New York Rangers.

In 426 NHL games for the rangers and Red Wings, he scored 122 goals and 136 assists. He retired after the 1986-87 season.

Eddie has joined the 2014 RBC Cup volunteer force, to help publicize the event and involve Laker players from his era.

"I'm sure the long-time Vernon fans would love to see the guys from our era," he says. "I hear that there even could be some alumni games. Heck, I might put on the blades myself."

Wednesday, May 29, 2013

CJHL Holds 2013 Annual General Meeting:

This is posted on the CJHL website:

CJHL Holds 2013 Annual General Meeting

Monday, May 27, 2013

The Canadian Junior Hockey League held its Annual General Meeting on May 23rd in Charlottetown, PEI. The CJHL Board approved several new policies aimed to strengthen the national organization for its member leagues, teams and athletes.

The CJHL will enter the 2013-2014 season with several new regulations and initiatives, including the following:

Stronger dispute resolution and appeal procedures for application of CJHL rules and inter-league disputes

Sanctions for payment of players in any manner that jeopardizes or potentially jeopardizes their (or their teammate's) eligibility to participate in college or university hockey at any level

Sanctions for violating rules on the amount and type of consideration payable as part of a CJHL Player Transfer Agreement

Creation of a "not-in-good-standing" list for players refusing to report to a team after a CJHL Player Transfer Agreement

Introduction of a "return-to-team" rule for players returning from other levels of hockey, including NCAA, Canadian university and college and CHL

Adoption of a CJHL inter-league player transfer freeze from 9:00 EST on December 10 to 12:00 p.m. EST on January 1

Formation of a committee to review the USA Hockey - Hockey Canada Transfer & Release Agreement

Formation of a committee to review the proliferation of junior leagues which are not sanctioned by Hockey Canada

The CJHL will continue to be led by CJHL President and Chairman Kirk Lamb and the following representatives:

CJHL Management Committee: Ryan Bartoshyk (AJHL), Ron Whitehead (SIJHL), Kevin Abrams (CCHL), Marty Savoy (OJHL)

CJHL VP, Communications: Charla Flett

CJHL Treasurer: Robert Mazzuca (NOJHL)

The CJHL, in partnership with Hockey Canada, will host its premier events on opposite ends of the country in 2013-2014. The 2013 World Junior A Challenge will be hosted by Yarmouth, NS while Vernon, BC will be the host community for the 2014 RBC Cup National Junior A Championship.

Tuesday, May 28, 2013

Silverbacks Name Former Vipers Head Scout Black Asst GM & Dir Of Player Personnel:

This is posted on the Silverbacks website:

Larry Black joins Backs as Asst GM & Dir of Player Personnel

Tuesday, May 28, 2013 - Submitted by Salmon Arm SIlverBacks

Media Release – May 28, 2013 – 3:00PM

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SILVERBACKS ANNOUNCE LARRY BLACK
ASST GENERAL MANAGER / DIRECTOR OF PLAYER PERSONNEL

The Salmon Arm SilverBacks are pleased to announce that Larry Black has joined the Backs as the New Asst General Manager & Director of Player Personnel effective immediately.

Larry for the last 6 years has been with the Vernon Vipers as Head Scout & Director of Scouting. He also worked with Vernon for 5 years prior to that as a regional scout. During his tenure with Vernon he helped them to 2 Royal Bank Cup Championships in 2009 & 2010 and also a runner up in 2011. This also included winning the Fred Page Cup 3 times, the Doyle Cup 3 times and 3 BCHL Championships.

"Larry brings a wealth of knowledge to the Silverbacks on and off the ice. He is a proven winner and has an eye for recruits like no other. He is a great recruiter and is very passionate about the players he brings in. If there is a game going on in the Okanagan he will be there” says Mick

“Blackie as he is known to his friends is also going to help me in the ASST GM role as this gives me the opportunity to go back behind the bench knowing that Larry will be helping me build Salmon Arm into a National Champion” quotes Mick

Larry lives in Vernon with his wife Gay and has 3 grown children and 5 grandchildren all living in the Vernon area.

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

Former Vipers Defenceman Ikkala Ties The Knot:

Former Vernon Vipers defenceman Cody Ikkala has tied the knot with his future wife Tiffany.  The Ikkala's will have their big day today.  Congrats you too!  Ikkala finished his fourth and final season at West Point University.  In 10 games this season Ikkala went pointless.  Ikkala played two season's in Vernon (2007-2009). In 96 regular season games with the Vipers Ikkala collected (1-14-15).

Cody Ikkala's Player Profile:

http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=113612

Here is the Ikkala's wedding website,

http://ikkalaandheld.ourwedding.com/

Monday, May 27, 2013

Former Viper Ikkala Collects Awards At Dutchmen Year End Banquet:

Former Vernon Vipers forward Cole Ikkala picked up two awards at the Union Dutchmen's year end awards banquet in late April.  Ikkala collected the Charlie Morrison award for community involvement and the Scott Richardson Unsung Hero award.  Ikkala finished his third season with the Dutchmen, played two years in Vernon (2008-2010) In 92 regular season games with the Vipers Ikkala collected (30-32-62).

Cole Ikkala's Player Profile:

http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=119312

This is posted on the Dutchmen website:

Awards given out at annual banquet

Sunday, April 21, 2013

by Ryan Fay

Senior forward Wayne Simpson, who led the Dutchmen with 36 points and seven game winning goals, was named the team MVP at the annual Union hockey awards
banquet Sunday night.
Other award winners include:

Sophomore Daniel Ciampini walked away with the most improved player award. The forward scored 21 points this past season, 15 more than he did in his freshman campaign. His goal total jumped from three to 11 and his assist tally increased from three to 10.

Freshman Matt Wilkins, who led all Union freshmen with 16 points, was named the rookie of the year. The forward was especially good after the first of the year, as 12 of his 16 points came after the calendar flipped to 2013.
The coaches award went to the three captains, seniors Kyle Bodie and Greg Coburn, and junior Mat Bodie.

Sophomore defenseman Shayne Gostisbehere picked up the 7th player award, chosen annually by the fans. It is awarded to the player who fans feel, with extra effort and skill, consistently creates excitement and aggressive play, resulting in a team advantage. Gostisbehere finished second among Union defensemen with 26 points, trailing only the 28 posted by Greg Coburn.

Junior forward Cole Ikkala picked up two awards, the Charlie Morrison award for community involvement and the Scott Richardson Unsung Hero award.
Theo DiPauli, a freshman forward, was awarded the VanArden Dukehart award for team's highest GPA.

Sunday, May 26, 2013

Countdown Begins To Host 2014 RBC Cup:

This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:

Countdown begins to host 2014 RBC Cup

By Roger Knox - Vernon Morning Star

 Published: May 26, 2013

Summerside will be a tough act for Greater Vernon to follow.

The Prince Edward Island community hosted the 2013 Royal Bank Cup national Junior A hockey championship, which culminated May 19 with the Brooks Bandits of Alberta beating the host Summerside Capitals 3-1 in the championship.

The 2014 tournament will run May 10 to 18 at Kal Tire Place (currently the Wesbild Centre).

“Summerside did a phenomenal job as hosts, the community was 100 per cent behind it,” said Mike Lane, co-chair of the Greater Vernon RBC organizing committee, who attended the second half of the week-long event with fellow chairperson Chris Collard.

Committee members Don and Betty Klepp attended the first part of the week in P.E.I.

“It’s going to be a benchmark for us to try and top,” added Lane. “Their facility was No. 1. It had the rink, an auditorium, whatever you wanted it was there.”

The new Summerside facility opened within the past five years, and also includes a swimming pool and horse racing track.

Plans for the 2014 RBC tournament are moving forward.

“We’ll be front and centre in the next week or two, engaging volunteers and having more ticket sale pushes,” said Lane.

The Vernon Vipers, who will be in the tournament as the host team, have made a couple of major player announcements, finalizing the trade with the Surrey Eagles Thursday that sent Vipers sniper Adam Tambellini to the Eagles (see page A19).

Surrey won the first-ever Crescent Point Energy Western Canada Cup in Nanaimo, beating Brooks in the final to send both teams to the RBC Cup in Summerside.

The host Capitals beat Surrey in overtime in a semifinal.

“It helps our cause when the team makes announcements about new players,” said Lane. “It gets people excited for the upcoming season.”

Lane said the organizing committee is looking for about 200 volunteers in total, and currently sits at around 140.

Anybody willing to volunteer can sign up at the Vipers office in the Wesbild Centre or contact Betty Klepp at eechan@shaw.ca.

The Greater Vernon RBC Cup is expected to have its own dedicated website, organized through Hockey Canada, up and running in a few weeks.

Ticket sales are also going well. Tickets can be purchased online through the Vipers’ website, vipers.bc.ca.

The 2014 tournament will mark the second time that Vernon followed Summerside in hosting the national Junior A championship tournament.

The first was in 1990, when the event was known as the Centennial Cup, and the host Vernon Lakers beat the BCHL champion New Westminster Royals 6-5 in overtime in the championship game at the Civic Arena.

It was the also the first time the tournament was a five-team event.

The host Summerside Capitals lost the 1989 final to the Thunder Bay Flyers in the final of the last four-team event.

The Lakers were the Western Canadian champs, but went 0-3 in Summerside.

Vipers Pluck Top Surrey Eagle Talent:

This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:

Vipers pluck top Surrey Eagle talent

By Graeme Corbett - Vernon Morning Star

Published: May 24, 2013

A week after helping the Surrey Eagles to a third-place finish at the RBC Cup, Demico Hannoun and Jordan Klimek learned they will get a second crack at the national junior A hockey championship in 2014.

Hannoun, a forward, and Klimek, a defenceman, both 1995-born players, will be joining the Vernon Vipers for the coming BCHL season. As the 2014 national tournament hosts, the Vipers are guaranteed a berth.

However, still buzzing from his RBC joyride in Summerside, PEI, Klimek has no intention of settling for host-team status.

“It was incredible, the feeling of accomplishment you get from all the hard work you put into it,” said the Langley product. “Obviously, we didn’t win there, but making it to a national championship is pretty impressive in my mind.”

The Eagle duo comes to the Viper den as future considerations in a five-player deal that sent centre Adam Tambellini to the Fred Page Cup champion Eagles at the January carding deadline. Vernon picked up ‘94-born forward Mason Blacklock at the time of the trade. They sent second-year forward Michael Roberts, a Vernon native, to Surrey this week to complete the transaction.

Roberts, who had four goals and 10 points in 53 games as a rookie, was unavailable for comment.

Surrey head coach Matt Erhart told Black Press: “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.

“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.”

Klimek, who turns 18 in August, plans to let his work ethic do the talking in setting an example for his new teammates. He pocketed six goals (four of them were game-winners) and 17 assists in 52 regular-season games, and followed that with six assists in 17 BCHL playoff tilts.

“I just know what it takes, and having been there before I’ll be a little bit less nervous,” said the offensive-minded d-man. “And hopefully I can provide some leadership to the guys who haven’t been there before.”

Klimek is committed to the Northern Michigan Wildcats for the 2014-15 season.

Said Vernon head coach Jason Williamson, of Klimek: “He’s already a smooth-skating, puck-moving defenceman, and his best years are yet to come in our league. It bodes well for our already strong d corps.”

Hannoun, a Delta product who is committed to the Michigan Tech Huskies, stepped up his game in the post-season, improving on a 33-point regular season by racking up 14 points (5-9) in 16 playoff tilts.

“He was a top-line guy in Surrey,” said Williamson. “Right winger, right shot – you can play him in all situations, but he’s an offensive threat every time you put him on the ice.”

Williamson knew he was getting three quality players in the Tambellini trade. With Surrey reaching the RBC, it made the deal all the sweeter.

“In a tournament like that you need a little experience,” he said. “We have Ryan Renz and Colton Sparrow who have been to an RBC before, and now we have two more. They were two pretty integral parts of Surrey’s run.”

With the recent influx of talent (Vernon recently reaped 20-year-old d-man Josh Bryan and 19-year-old forward Michael McNicholas from the Nanaimo Clippers to complete the Aaron Hadley deal) they have a roster surplus. That includes nine returning 20-year-olds (BCHL teams are allowed six) – d-men Jason Bird, Geoff Crisfield, Renz and Bryan, forwards Brendan Persley, Sparrow, Liam Board and Braedan Russell, and goalie Austin Smith.

“My guys knew that,” said Williamson. “They realize there’s probably some good players coming in a  trade like that. That’s one of the things that has to happen when you’re trying to build a championship-calibre team.”

SNAKE BITES: Tambellini will join David Pope of the West Kelowna Warriors as the lone BCHLers to participate in the NHL scouting combine, May 27-June 1 in Toronto. Tambellini is listed at No. 42 for North American skaters heading into the NHL Entry Draft, June 30, in New Jersey. Pope is rated at No. 67... Eagles rookie forward Kevan Kilistoff, 18, was sent to the Langley Rivermen to complete a three-team deal that, earlier this season, saw the Eagles pick up 20-year-old defeneceman Troy Paterson from the Cowichan Valley Capitals.

Saturday, May 25, 2013

Former Vipers Forward Fowlie Commits To University Of Regina:

Former Vernon Vipers forward Cody Fowlie has committed to the University of Regina for next season.  Fowlie started the season with the WHL Everett Silvertips before being released. Fowlie signed with the Vipers on October 16th 2012 playing in three games before leaving Vernon and signing with the Kelowna Rockets on October 22nd 2012. In three games with the Vipers Fowlie recorded (1-1-2).  In 59 regular season games with the Rockets Fowlie collected (17-23-40). In 11 playoff games with the Rockets Fowlie collected (3-1-4). 

Cody Fowlie's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=51709

This is posted on the Rockets website:

Fowlie Commits to University of Regina

Hard working Rocket takes advantage of WHL scholarship to play in CIS next season

May 16, 2013 - Kelowna, BC

Twenty-year-old graduating forward Cody Fowlie has found a place to play next season and will utilize the WHL scholarship to attend Canadian university and play at the highest level of collegiate hockey in Canada next season.

University of Regina men’s hockey head coach Todd Johnson announced Thursday that Fowlie has committed to the Cougars for the 2013-14 season.

Originally from Airdrie, Alta., Fowlie played for three full seasons in the Western Hockey League and finished off his junior career with the Kelowna Rockets as a 20-year-old this year.

He put up 40 points in 59 games with the Rockets and added three postseason goals as Kelowna advanced to the Western Conference semifinal series. Fowlie, who also had 40 points during the 2011-12 season, collected a total of 95 points in a total of 201 career regular season games played with Kelowna and Everett.

“Cody is an extremely capable offensive player and he is consistently rewarded on the ice for his strong work ethic,” Johnson said. “His great character is a major reason I went after him so hard and I’m extremely pleased to add him to the roster.”

Fowlie was released by Everett at the start of the WHL season and was picked up by the Rockets off the WHL waiver wire.

He quickly became one of the hardest working Rockets and was a key cog in the team's 52 win season this season.

Overall Fowlie played 208 regular season WHL games in a four year career split between Kelowna and Everett.

Friday, May 24, 2013

BCHL Adding Two Games To Regular-Season Schedule:

This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:

BCHL adding two games to regular-season schedule

Published: May 24, 2013

The B.C. Hockey League is considering a few tweaks to its scheduling as it heads into the 2013-14 season.

Most notable is an increase from 56 to 58 regular-season games for the coming campaign. The finalized BCHL schedule will be announced in mid-June.

Another issue under consideration is the league playoff format. Last season, Interior teams played two seven-game series to reach the Fred Page Cup final, while Coastal teams played two best-of-five sets, followed by a best-of-seven conference final to reach the Fred Page.

Vernon Vipers’ head coach/GM Jason Williamson, who co-chairs the league coaches committee with Nanaimo Clippers’ bench boss Mike Vandekamp, said several revised playoff formats are being put forward for consideration by league governors at the AGM, June 6-8 in Richmond.

Meanwhile, the Vipers expect to announce this weekend the future considerations headed to Vernon to complete the deal that sent centre Adam Tambellini to the Surrey Eagles at the carding deadline.

Williamson said two Eagles will be joining the Viper den, while one current Vernon roster player is also bound for Surrey as part of the deal.

The Vipers earlier announced the players they received in the Aaron Hadley deadline trade with the Nanaimo Clippers – forward Michael McNicholas, 19, and defenceman Josh Bryan, 20.

Vernon, hosts of the 2014 RBC Cup national Junior A championship, will jumpstart its main training camp on Monday, Aug. 19.

The Vipers’ exhibition schedule begins with a home-and-home against the Salmon Arm SilverBacks. The Gorillas host the Snakes on Friday, Aug. 23 at the Shaw Centre before visiting Wesbild Centre (which will be renamed Kal Tire Place on June 1) for a Saturday, Aug. 24 tilt.

Vernon then heads to 100 Mile House for a Wednesday, Aug. 28 date with the Prince George Spruce Kings.

They end the exhibition schedule with another home-and-home with the West Kelowna Warriors, beginning Friday, Aug. 30 at home. The Vipers visit the Warriors Saturday, Aug. 31 at Royal LePage Place.

The regular season opens with the second annual Showcase tournament, Sept. 6-8 in Chilliwack.

Thursday, May 23, 2013

Vernon-Surrey Trade:

This is posted on the Vipers website:

Vipers Complete Trade With Surrey

Thursday, May 23, 2013 - Submitted by Viper Staff

The Vernon Vipers and Surrey Eagles have now completed the deal that sent Adam Tambellini to the Eagles at the BCHL Trade Deadline.

The BCHL Champion Eagles are sending forward Demico Hannoun(95) and defenceman Jordan Klimek (95) to the Vipers for next season.

In order to finalize the deal the Vipers have sent forward Michael Roberts(95) to the Surrey Eagles.

In the end the trade featured 5 players in total with the Vipers acquiring Mason Blacklock, Hannoun and Klimek in exchange for Tambellini and Roberts.

Both Hannoun and Klimek have secured scholarships for the 14-15 season with Hannoun attending Michigan Tech while Klimek will suit up for Northern Michigan.

Head Coach and General Manager Jason Williamson is excited to add two more experienced bodies to his roster.  “Any time that you have the opportunity to acquire players of this calibre you have to entertain it.  Moving Adam and Michael were not easy decisions for our club however we believed it gave us an opportunity to add some depth and some very good talent to our line-up during a very important season for us.  The experience gained by both Jordan and Demico during Surrey’s recent and successful playoff run will be very valuable to our group moving forward.”

The Vipers would like to welcome Demico and Jordan to the hockey club and wish Michael the best of luck next season and in the future.

For more information please call the Viper office at 250-542-6022

This is posted on the Eagles website:

Eagles Trade Three, Acquire One

Thursday, May 23, 2013 - Submitted by Brendan Batchelor

For immediate release: May 23, 2013

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.

Former Viper Noonan Returns To BU For Teammates, Tradition And A Desire To Win:

Here is a story on former Vernon Vipers defenceman Garrett Noonan who is returning to Boston University next season.  Noonan finished his third season at Boston University. In 34 games this season Noonan collected (6-13-19). Noonan was drafted by the Nashville Predators in round 4 #112 overall in the 2011 NHL Entry Draft. Noonan played one season in Vernon (2009-2010) collecting (2-16-18) in 58 regular season games with the Vipers.

Garrett Noonan's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=48219


This is posted on the WTBU Sports website:

M Hockey: Garrett Noonan Returns to BU for Teammates, Tradition and a Desire to Win

Posted on May 10, 2013 by jashvina

by Jashvina Shah/Staff Beat Reporter

Boston University men’s hockey defenseman Garrett Noonan was new to the Vernon Vipers when classmate Sahir Gill first met him. They were stall mates, sitting next to each other before Gill moved to an open spot at the center of the room.

“That’s the first time I met him. I sat next to him in his stall and then I ditched him,” Gill says.

“He always gives me a hard time. … I think he took it personally to be honest. … He calls me a bad friend. I’ll tell him to shut up.”

Gill is one of the reasons Noonan elected to stay with the Terriers for his senior season. The 22-year-old wants to be with his teammates, even though some of them — including classmate Matt Nieto — already left to pursue a professional path.

“It was obviously a decision but this is the place that I want to be,” Noonan says, standing near the strength and conditioning room at Agganis Arena.

He’s surrounded by pictures of former Terriers, spaced evenly along the corridors of Agganis Arena’s lower level.


The Norfolk, Mass. native loves being a part of this program, but his biggest goal is to win a championship.

“He probably also felt that he had a little unfinished businesses just because we hadn’t really had much success in the big games since we’ve been here,” Gill says. “I know he’s a local guy, he watched BU win so much and I think he wants to be a part of bringing back the winning ways.”

Over his three years at BU, Noonan has registered 26 goals, 61 points and 247 penalty minutes in 110 games.

The 6-foot-1 defenseman, drafted in the fourth round by the Nashville Predators in 2011, smiles as he stands by the stairwell him and his teammates often use to get in and out of Agganis.

He’s now one of the veterans on the team, not only as an upperclassman but also as an assistant captain. Jack Parker awarded Noonan the “A” on Dec. 14, just after the first half of the season finished.

“It was a pretty big honor, anytime you can wear a letter,” Noonan says.

While the newer assistant captain learned from his counterparts, captain Wade Megan and assistant captain Ryan Ruikka, he also learned from his classmates and some of his other teammates.

“I think I’ve learned a lot from them, just how to take care of my body and trying to lead off the ice and do the right things,” Noonan says.

Gill says his teammate — and one of his closest friends — isn’t the most vocal of leaders.

“He’s not a clown but he’s a funny guy as far as in the [locker] room,” Gill says.

“He’s not really a guy who’s going to come in here and yell at someone or he’s not going to come in and give an all-time Ray Lewis speech, but he leads by example. He plays hard [and] he works hard when he’s out on the ice and that rubs off on guys.”

Noonan suffered a separated shoulder just before the regular season ended, but stepped on the ice just in time for BU’s Hockey East Semifinal match against Boston College.

After a rough first period for the Terriers, Noonan corralled a pass from his defensive partner Matt Grzelcyk and wristed it from the bottom right faceoff circle to give the Terriers a 3-2 lead over the Eagles.

The assistant captain skated away from the net, his stick raised. A few seconds later, he dropped his hands to his side before throwing them up again in celebration.

His goal didn’t stand as the game-winning tally, but it cemented a momentum change in favor of the Terriers. The 22-year-old has scored eight points (5 g, 3a) in 11 contests against the Eagles, including the first goal in BU’s Nov. 30 home victory over the BC this past season.

“He’s always looking to make plays, he’s always looking to score goals,” Gill says. “You always know when he’s on the ice to be aware if he’s going to be looking to get open in the offensive zone or he’s going to look to jump in the rush. It’s just fun hockey when he’s on the ice.”

Back at Agganis in November, Evan Rodrigues threw the puck on net, where Matt Nieto grabbed the rebound and tried himself. Noonan, driving to the crease, found the puck and whacked it into an open net from the air.

Agganis erupted.

“He’s a confident kid. He always wants to be the center of attention when it comes to being on the ice. He wants the puck, he wants to make plays,” Gill says. “I say gamer because he’ll do what it takes to win and you see that sometimes. Maybe it’s a penalty but that’s just because he’s playing hard or makes a big play.”

His first collegiate point was an assist on a goal in BU’s win over Notre Dame that handed the Terriers the Ice Breaker Tournament. And he scored his first goal against Boston College, a play Noonan still remembers.

On that night, Noonan was crossing in front of the net just in time to connect with an Alex Chiasson feed.

The 22-year-old joined the Terriers in 2010-11 after spending some time in Canada’s BCHL with the Vernon Vipers. He amassed 27 points en route to the team’s RBC Cup.

He pauses, trying to think of a story that sums up his three years of hockey after donning red and white.

“One moment? I think there’s been probably a few moments that’s [showed] my role,” he says with a laugh.

But ultimately the Norfolk, Mass. native settled on his conversations with recently retired Parker.

“I know maybe we get in a little argument or something like that and we kind of go at it a little bit,” Noonan says, still laughing.

“But it’s just, coach is unbelievable to me and means the world to me. I think it’s just something that we’re both really competitive people and sometimes stuff happens. It’s, I can’t thank him enough for everything he’s done for me, it’s been unbelievable.”

One of Noonan’s conversations with Parker came after the defenseman speared UMass-Lowell netminder Doug Carr on Jan. 19. Noonan was suspended for two games because of the play.

The defenseman calls it one of the toughest moments of his time at BU.

“Obviously I didn’t want to sit out,” Noonan says, losing his smile. “It was kind of stupid on my part because it hurt the team and I didn’t want people to think I hurt the team, but I did. I know I did. It was good to get back and play.“

The statistics tell one story for Noonan, one of the 2009 Boston Globe All-Scholastic athletes, but it’s the drive to win that characterizes him.

“I think Garrett Noonan is a great kid. I think Garrett Noonan wants to win as much as anybody in that dressing room,” Parker said in January after Noonan’s suspension.

“I think he’s had a terrific first semester. I think he was much better first semester than he’s ever been here because he was super driven. … He’s been terrific defensively though. I must have told him three or four times during the course of the first semester, you’re really going this way, defensively you’re getting better and better.”

Noonan takes a moment to think about what he wants to improve most for next season. It’s quiet in Agganis Arena, currently devoid of the usual regular-season sounds of players walking through the halls, voices carrying from one end to another.

“God, there’s been a bunch of things,” Noonan says.

“[I’m] trying to get better defensively because I know at the next level you really need to be cautious of who you’re playing against. I feel like getting better defensively will just help me in the long run.”

He likes to be involved in the plays, and sometimes you can find him hovering near the bottom of the right faceoff circle, like he was against BC.

He finished his sophomore year tied for first in goals amongst defenseman in the nation with 16. He netted 34 points as a senior at Catholic Memorial High School, when the team won the Massachusetts Super 8 Championship.

“I’ve tried to keep my offense there a little bit, but I know you can’t be taking too many risks if you want to be a good defenseman and play at the next level, so it’s something I’m working on every day,” Noonan says.

“Also I think I’ve learned how to carry myself better off the ice probably. That’s something that really needs to be done and I’ve kind of learned from guys like Megan and Ruikka, seeing how they carry themselves off the ice, putting the extra work and hopefully it works on the ice.”

He thinks David Quinn, BU’s first new head coach in 40 years, can help him with that goal.

“I’ve heard so many great things about him,” Noonan says. “It makes you [realize] that you want to be here, you want to play for him and you want to learn from him.

“He’s been in the NHL and the AHL so he knows what it takes to play there. I feel like another year with him can only help me, but I’m just excited to play under him.”

While the Massachusetts native thinks there’s room for improvement, he’s been recognized for his talent over the past few years. He was named a Hockey East Top Performer 10 times over his three years with BU.

The former Catholic Memorial High School co-captain laughs as he thinks of why he loves pulling on the red and white “Boston” jersey for every game.

“I think it’s probably all the guys,” Noonan says as his teammates tramp past him intermittently up the stairs, waving as they leave Agganis. “The guys who’ve played at BU before me and the guys who are here now.

“It’s just a mixture of guys you see in the NHL now and you see them always come back, want to be around BU and how much they love it. There’s so much tradition and it’s a hard place to leave.”

Facing the defenseman as he looks at the ground are those past players. They’re documented in framed pictures of previous Terrier teams, some black and white and others faded, subdued red.

“It’s such a great program and to have my name be said with the same names as all those guys, it’s such a big deal,” Noonan says. “I know all our team thinks that way. It’s just a tradition and we really want to win and that’s something we have to do next year.”

Wednesday, May 22, 2013

Former Vipers Forward Tambellini Heading To NHL Scouting Combine:

Former Vernon Vipers forward Adam Tambellini will soon head to Toronto to be put through the paces of the NHL scouting combine.  Tambellini is listed at #42.
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.   

Adam Tambellini's Player Profile:

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


This is posted on the BCHL website:

Tambellini and Pope will take part in 2013 scouting combine

Tuesday, May 21, 2013 - Submitted by BCHL Media

Forwards Adam Tambellini of the Surrey Eagles and David Pope of the West Kelowna Warriors will soon be headed to Toronto to be put through the paces of the NHL scouting combine.

The event will take place May 27 to June 1 and the top 79 North American skaters, top seven goalies, top 14 European skaters and one European goalie will be there for a total of 101 athletes.

Tambellini is listed at No. 42 for his group while Pope is listed at No. 67.

Top-rated skaters Seth Jones, Nathan MacKinnon, Aleksandr Barkov, Jonathan Drouin and Valeri Nichushkin are expected to attend the combine as well.

For the link to the complete list of 101 players and the story on NHL.com

http://www.nhl.com/ice/blogpost.htm?id=17761

The 2013 NHL Entry Draft will be held on Sunday, June 30 at New Jersey's Prudential Centre.

Tuesday, May 21, 2013

Crisfield Not Going To UND:

Vernon Vipers defenceman Geoff Crisfield wont be going to the University of North Dakota after Crisfields recruitment was re-opened.  Crisfield will be returning to Vernon next season for his third year with the Vipers after committing to UND during the 2011-12 season.  In 59 regular season games with the Vipers this season Crisfield collected (1-2-3).

Geoff Crisfield's Player Profile:

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/rosters_profile.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&teamID=339739&playerID=821178

This is posted on the UND Hockey Blog:

Crisfield not coming to UND

Posted on May 13, 2013 by Brad Elliott Schlossman

Defenseman Geoff Crisfield, who had a relatively quiet year in the BCHL, will no longer be coming to UND.

Vernon Vipers coach Jason Williamson confirmed that Crisfield’s recruitment was re-opened about two weeks ago. Williamson didn’t have any details of what happened and UND coaches are not allowed to comment on players who have not signed letters of intent.

Even so, this appears to be a case of a player whose development may have stalled and there wasn’t going to be much ice time for him at UND, especially with the addition of East Grand Forks blue liner Gage Ausmus, who de-committed from Denver last month after the firing of George Gwozdecky. Ausmus committed to UND last week.

Crisfield, a 20-year-old, stay-at-home physical defenseman, had one goal and two assists this season for the Vipers, while leading the team with 73 penalty minutes.

UND is expected to bring in four defensemen next season — USHL defenseman of the year Paul LaDue, BCHL defenseman of the year Troy Stecher and NTDP blue liners Ausmus and Keaton Thompson.

Monday, May 20, 2013

Former Viper MacMurchy Extends Contract With EHC Biel:

Former Vernon Vipers forward, Ryan MacMurchy has extended his contract with EHC Biel (German). EHC Biel is a professional hockey club based in the bilingual city of Biel/Bienne, Switzerland and plays in the National League A. MacMurchy started the season with HC Red Ice after committing to the Red Ice back on April, 21st 2012 before signing with EHC Biel. In 24 games this season with Red Ice MacMurchy collected (18-12-30).  In 7 games this season with EHC Biel MacMurchy has (7-3-10).    

MacMurchy played last season in Norway with the Stavanger Oilers. In 44 regular season games MacMurchy collected (37-39-76). MacMurchy played one season in Vernon (2000-2001) collecting (4-16-20) in 55 regular season games with the Vipers. MacMurchy was selected by the St. Louis Blues in round 9 #284 overall in the 2002 NHL Entry Draft.

Ryan MacMurchy's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=15346

This is posted on the EHC Biel website:

Ryan MacMurchy remains with the EHCB 

The EHC Biel has redeemed the option on a contract lengthening with Canadian forward Ryan MacMurchy (27.04.1983). Therefore the forward remains in the coming season 13/14 with the EHCB. In the tramped season MacMurchy has achieved 12 Skorerpunkte (8 gates / 4 Assists) after his change of Martigny to Biel in 10 plays.

With Ahren Spylo and Ryan MacMurchy the EHC Biel has taken for the season 13/14 two of four foreign positions.

EHC Biel Sport AG

Sunday, May 19, 2013

Former Viper Bayda Big Help For Blades:

This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:

Bayda big help for Blades

By Kevin Mitchell - Vernon Morning Star

Published: May 19, 2013

Ryan Bayda, who boosted the Vernon Vipers to the 1999 Royal Bank Cup title, helped the Saskatoon Blades prepare for the Memorial Cup at a practice last Monday in Warman.

Bayda, a former Carolina Hurricane back in Toon Town after a third year in Germany, and nine other pros or university players, scrimmaged against the Blades, whose last WHL game was March 27.

The group simulated some of the powerplay schemes used by teams in the running for the Major Junior tournament.

“It gives the Blades some competition instead of just playing against each other,” Bayda told The Saskatoon Star-Phoenix. “When you do that, you start to learn everyone’s tendencies and start cheating a little bit.”

Bayda, as a 17-year-old, racked up 82 points on the Vipers’ powerful KBG line with Tyler Knight and Lanny Gare before going to the University of North Dakota.

RBC Cup Funds Approved Amidst Debate:

This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:

RBC Cup funds approved amidst debate

By Richard Rolke - Vernon Morning Star

Published: May 19, 2013

A major sports event is garnering support although some officials are less than enthusiastic.

Vernon council has agreed to  a tourism advisory committee recommendation to provide $14,450 in hotel room tax revenue to offset marketing expenses for the 2014 Royal Bank Cup.

However, the committee believes the Canadian junior hockey championships are more of a community focus than a tourism event.

“As the Vernon Vipers have a large, loyal fan base, accommodators expect that most spectators will be local and regional rather than overnight visitors,” said Michelle Jefferson, tourism manager, in a report to council.

“Council should be aware that although teams, their support staff and Hockey Canada staff will stay in accommodation in Vernon, these rooms are paid for by the local organizing committee rather than these guests.”

The tourism committee’s comments upset Coun. Patrick Nicol, who insists the RBC Cup is a tourism draw.

“A significant number of people are coming (to Vernon) and that statement is out of line,” he said.

Organizers have stated the event could attract 3,500 to 4,000 visitors and have a local economic benefit of $1.5 million.

The 2014 Royal Bank Cup tournament, which will bring together two teams from Western Canada, one from Central Canada and one from Eastern Canada, along with the host Vernon Vipers, runs from May 10 to 18, 2014 at Wesbild Centre.

Mark Ferner Game Worn Ducks Jersey For Sale On Ebay:

Here is a Mark Ferner Anaheim Mighty Ducks game worn jersey for sale on ebay, from the Mighty Ducks 1993-94 inaugural season.  Ferner spent seven years in the NHL with Buffalo, Washington, Anaheim & Detroit.  Ferner spent four seasons with the Vipers (2007-2011) before joining the Everett Silvertips. In four seasons with the Vipers Ferner went 165-68-7 guiding the Vipers to back to back Royal Bank Cup Championships in 2009 & 2010 before falling in the Royal Bank Cup Finals in 2011.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Mark-Ferner-93-94-Anaheim-Mighty-Ducks-First-Year-Jersey-w-Disney-Patch-/221048296303?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item337781536f

Saturday, May 18, 2013

Former Viper Tambellini Ends Junior Career With Overtime Loss In RBC Cup Semi-Finals:

Former Vernon Vipers forward Adam Tambellini and the Surrey Eagles fell one game short of the Royal Bank Cup final after a tough 3-2 Overtime loss this afternoon to the Summerside Western Capitals. Tambellini and the Eagles finished the RBC Cup with a 3-2 record.  Tambellini's Junior hockey career comes to an end, Tambellini will play next season at the University of North Dakota.

Adam Tambellini's Player Profile:

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

This is posted on the Hockey Canada website:


Summerside Western Capitals (HST) 3 - Surrey Eagles (WST1) 2 (OT)


CAISSY SCORES OT WINNER, WESTERN CAPITALS INTO CHAMPIONSHIP GAME AT RBC CUP

SUMMERSIDE, P.E.I. – Chris Caissy scored 16:57 into overtime to give the

Caissy picked up a loose puck in the neutral zone and eluded a check before snapping a shot just inside the far post past Surrey goaltender Michael Santaguida, igniting the record-setting hometown crowd of 3,386 at CUP.

It’s the third time the Western Capitals have advanced to the title game, and the third time they’ve needed extra time to win their semifinal; they needed triple overtime to beat the Moncton Hawks 3-2 in 1989, and topped the Weyburn Red Wings 4-3 in 1997. Ironically, the 1989 and 1997 tournaments were both hosted in Summerside.
Summerside Western Capitals a 3-2 semifinal win over the Surrey Eagles on Saturday night and send the host team to the championship game at the 2013 RBC Cup.

The Western Capitals are just the fifth team since the introduction of the tournament format in 1985 to reach at least three national finals – Vernon (seven), Camrose (four), Humboldt (four) and Penticton (three) are the others.

JP Harvey and Danny Chiasson had the goals in regulation time for Summerside, which avenged an overtime loss to the Eagles during the preliminary round. Caissy was in on every Western Capitals goal, adding two assists.

Kevin Bailie stole the show in the Summerside goal, finishing with 50 saves, including three point-blank stops in the opening two-and-a-half minutes of overtime.

Drew Best and Brett Mulcahy scored for Surrey, which twice erased one-goal deficits to force overtime. It’s the second time the Eagles have had their season ended at the national championship by Summerside; the Western Capitals beat Surrey in the 1997 final in Summerside.

Santaguida matched Bailie almost save for save, turning aside 42 of 45 shots in a losing cause.

The goaltenders were simply dominant in the first two periods; the teams went almost 40 minutes without a goal before Harvey slid a loose puck through Santaguida on a Summerside power play with just 24.8 seconds left in the middle frame.

Best drew Surrey even at 4:47 of the third period, sneaking behind the Summerside defence and roofing a shot over the glove of Bailie, but Chiasson restored the Western Capitals lead 3:01 later, sneaking a backhand past a stretching Santaguida for the 2-1 advantage.

Mulcahy, the Eagles captain, tied the game again at 12:42, deftly redirecting a Dan O’Keefe point shot past Bailie to force extra time.

The 3,386 fans beat the old mark of 3,176 set at the 2007 championship game in Prince George, B.C., between the Aurora Tigers and host Spruce Kings.

Former Viper Tambellini Named Top Forward At RBC Cup:

Former Vernon Vipers forward Adam Tambellini was named Top Forward at the Royal Bank Cup awards banquet.  Tambellini and the Surrey Eagles are off to the semifinals today vs Summerside.

Adam Tambellini's Player Profile:

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

This is posted on the Hockey Canada website:

2013 RBC Cup award winners announced; semifinals set for Saturday

SUMMERSIDE, P.E.I. – The 2013 RBC Cup, Canada's 43rd National Junior A Championship, held its awards banquet on Friday night at the Harbourfront Theatre. The recipients of all six individual awards were announced at the banquet.

The awards were based on the tournament's preliminary round, which ran from Saturday to Thursday.

The 2013 RBC Cup award winners are:

Most Valuable Player (Roland Mercier Trophy) – Cam Maclise (Brooks Bandits)
Top Goaltender – Kevin Bailie (Summerside Western Capitals)
Top Forward – Adam Tambellini (Surrey Eagles)
Top Defenceman – Devon Toews (Surrey Eagles)
Most Sportsmanlike Player (Tubby Schmalz Trophy) – Mike Dietrich (Minnesota Wilderness)
Top Scorer – Anthony Paskaruk (Brooks Bandits)

In addition, Brooks Bandits (Alberta Junior Hockey League) forward Cam Maclise was presented with the 2013 RBC Canadian Junior Hockey League Player of the Year award. A third-year Bandit and Brooks’ captain this season, Cam Maclise finished in the top three in Alberta Junior Hockey League scoring for the second consecutive year, scoring 27 goals and adding a league-leading 56 assists, sparking an offence that scored almost 100 goals more than any other AJHL team. Maclise was rewarded for his offensive exploits with the AJHL MVP award, and was named Brooks’ most valuable player and top forward for the second year in a row.
Thomas Martin of the Vaudreuil-Dorion Mustangs (Ligue de hockey junior AAA du Qu̩bec) was on hand in Summerside to receive the RBC National Junior A Scholarship. Martin was chosen from 10 finalists Рone from each of the Canadian Junior Hockey League's member leagues Рto receive the $5,000 scholarship.

The RBC Cup Legacy Scholarships were also handed out at the awards banquet. Established following the 2004 RBC Royal Bank Cup in Grande Prairie, Alta., and contributed to following successful National Junior A Championships in Weyburn, Sask., Prince George, B.C., and Cornwall, Ont., these $500 scholarships are awarded to one graduating 20-year-old player from each of the five participating teams.

The RBC Cup Legacy Scholarship winners are:

Brooks Bandits – Chris Muscoby
Minnesota Wilderness – Mike Dietrich
Summerside Western Capitals – Matthew Kelly
Surrey Eagles – Trevor Cameron
Truro Bearcats – Shayne Campbell

After six days of preliminary round action, the semifinals are set for Saturday. In the early game at 2 p.m. AT, the Brooks Bandits (3-1) will take on the Minnesota Wilderness (1-3), while the Surrey Eagles (3-1) will face the host Summerside Western Capitals (2-2) in the late semifinal at 6 p.m. AT.

The semifinal winners will meet in Sunday’s championship game, which can be seen on tape delay at 7:30 p.m. ET/4:30 p.m. PT on TSN2/RDS, Hockey Canada’s official broadcasters (check your local listings). Both semifinals can be seen live via webcast through FASTHockey at hockeycanada.fasthockey.com.

Friday, May 17, 2013

Family Values With Former Vernon Viper Tambellini:

The youngest member of one of Canadian hockey's most recognizable families, Adam Tambellini is no stranger to pressure. After all, his grandfather is an IIHF World Championship gold medallist, his father played for Canada at the Olympics and won Olympic gold as part of the Team Canada management team, and his brother was national Junior A player of the year and a first-round NHL draft pick. But the youngest of the Tambellini clan is making his own path in the game, and it has led him to Summerside, P.E.I., and the 2013 RBC Cup. 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 and the Surrey Eagles are currently 3-1 at the RBC Cup.

Tambellini Family Values (Video)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XdsvsPA63lg 

Thursday, May 16, 2013

Vipers With Some Tough Decisions Regarding Roster:

Since the January 10th BCHL Trade Deadline Viper fans have been waiting to hear who the players are coming back the other way, in the Vipers deals on deadline day.  Well last week the Vipers announced who was coming to Vernon in the Aaron Hadley-Nanaimo trade from January.

Coming to Vernon is 19 yr old forward Michael McNicholas and 20 yr old defenceman Josh Bryan from the Nanaimo Clippers.  McNicholas finished his first and only season with the Clippers playing in just 35 regular season games collecting (10-22-32) while only playing in just over half the regular season, McNicholas put up pretty good numbers.  If McNicholas was on the Vipers this past season he would have been second in scoring behind forward Mason Blacklock.  With the addition of McNicholas this has the Vipers with a possible twelve forwards for next season. 

Michael McNicholas's Player Profile:

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/rosters_profile.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&teamID=339740&playerID=932602

Josh Bryan comes to Vernon as the now the 9th twenty yr old on the Vipers roster.  (Jason Bird, Liam Board, Geoff Crisfield, Brendan Persley, Ryan Renz, Braeden Russell, Colton Sparrow & Austin Smith).  The league limit is six twenty yr olds, so atleast three have to go.  The Vipers coaching staff-management has some tough choices to make before the start of the 2013-14 regular season.  Josh Bryan comes to Vernon as the seventh defenceman.  Bryan a four year veteran d-man has played the last four seasons with Victoria and Nanaimo.  Bryan has some good size, experience and put up 30 pts this season with the Clippers. 

Josh Bryan's Player Profile:

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/rosters_profile.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&teamID=339740&playerID=573103

On the same day the Vipers announced who was coming to Vernon from the Nanaimo trade this past season the Vipers also signed two prospects for next season. 

Coming to Vernon is Mark Hamilton, a defenceman rated 191st among North American skaters by Central Scouting at this years NHL Entry Draft.  Hamilton has good size, a former captain will bring leadership, a physical presence and some offence to Vernon's lineup.  Hamilton sounds very promising but will only be with the Vipers for one season, after heading off to the University of Massachusetts for the following season.

USHR has Hamilton ranked as the 7th best Junior this past season,

http://www.ushr.com/news/20111201

In the other signing the Vipers have landed 16 yr old forward Tyler Povelofskie.  Povelofskie collected 32 pts with Major Midget Prince George Cougars.  At 5'11 Povelofskie played one game with the Prince George Spruce Kings last season & was an "AP" with the Alberni Valley Bulldogs this season.  At just 16 yrs old you never really know what kind of a player your getting, so its hard to tell until you can get a better look at him during Training Camp and into some BCHL games.

Here is a story on Povelofskie,

http://www.bclocalnews.com/sports/134430698.html?mobile=true

Tyler Povelofskie's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=153007

The Vipers roster is now sitting at twenty two players.  With players still coming to Vernon in the Adam Tambellini trade from January the Vipers roster will grow once again.  Once the Eagles season comes to an end Im sure we will hear who will be coming to Vernon from Surrey.  You can also bet the Vipers coaching staff will be making some tough decisions-trades over the summer regarding the Vipers roster.

I wonder wich three twenty year olds will be shipped out? And will the Vipers keep any of the remaining six?  Will the Vipers keep both goaltenders?  You can bet both Danny Todosychuk and Austin Smith both would like to play and play on a regular night.  Both goaltenders proved this season either of the two are capable of being a #1.  The question is do the Vipers keep both? Austin Smith will be playing his final season of Junior hockey while Danny Todosychuk still has two seasons remaining.  The Vipers could go with both goaltenders as long as both are happy, this setting up Vernon with Todosychuk as the #1 twenty yr old the following season.  Up front will also be another tough decision.  There are a few forwards who in my mind didnt play very well-or live up to expectations this past season.  Who will be shipped out over the off season to make room for some of the new kids coming to town?  You can bet the Vipers arnt finished with roster moves, as will hear more on the clubs roster over the summer-heading into Training Camp.

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

Defence:

Jason Bird  (93)
Mark Hamilton  (94)
Josh Bryan  (93)
Geoff Crisfield  (93)
Bryce Eviston  (94)
Ryan Renz  (93)
Michael Statchuk  (94)

Forwards:

Mason Blacklock  (94)
Tyler Povelofskie  (96)
Liam Board  (93)
Dexter Dancs  (95)
TJ Dumonceaux  (94)
Craig Martin  (95)
Mitch McAllister  (94)
Logan Mick  (96)
Brendan Persley  (93)
Michael Roberts  (95)
Braeden Russell  (93)
Colton Sparrpw  (93)
Michael McNicholas  (94)

Goaltenders:

Austin Smith  (93)
Danny Todosychuk  (94)

Wednesday, May 15, 2013

Vernon Vipers Alumni Win Gamblers Cup:

Some members of the 1998-1999 Royal Bank Cup Champion Vernon Vipers (Petr Chytka, Troy Mick, Derek Gustafson, Tyler Knight, Lennie Rampone & Scott Krahn) & a single member from the 1994-1995 Vernon Lakers (Ryan Phillips) visited Las Vegas, Nevada April, 18th-21st for a Viper reunion-hockey tournament.  The Vipers played four games before winning the 2013 Gamblers Cup in the Championship Game.

Here is the Vipers roster-lineup

Petr Chytka
Troy Mick
Derek Gustafson
Ryan Phillips
Tyler Knight
Lennie Rampone
Scott Krahn
Martin Stuchlik
Zee Kehn
Carlos Hernandez

Here is a rundown from the Tournament game sheets

Game 1

The Vipers defeated Team Lucky 8-2 Thursday afternoon April, 18th 2013

Scoring Summary

1st Period

7:19  Vipers  (Goal)  Petr Chytka  (Assists)  Ryan Phillips
4:45  Vipers  (Goal)  Derek Gustafson  (Assists)  Petr Chytka, Carlos Hernandez
:38  Vipers  (Goal)  Petr Chytka (2)  (Assists)  Lennie Rampone

2nd Period:

9:15  Team Lucky  (Goal)  Kyle Herba  (Assists)  Bruc Churchill
5:53  Vipers  (Goal)  Martin Stuchlik  (Assists)  Carlos Hernandez, Derek Gustafson
1:01  Team Lucky  (Goal)  Pat Mckernan  (Assists)  Alex Herba

3rd Period:

9:29 Vipers  (Goal)  Tyler Knight  (Assists)  Lennie Rampone, Derek Gustafson
6:12  Vipers  (Goal)  Derek Gustafson (2)  (Assists)  Petr Chytka, Lennie Rampone
3:49  Vipers  (Goal)  Troy Mick  (Assists)  Zee Kehn, Petr Chytka
3:13  Vipers  (Goal)  Troy Mick (2)  (Assists)  Tyler Knight

MVP:

Vipers:  Derek Gustafson
Team Lucky:  Alex Herba



Game 2

The Vipers defeated Crown Royal 5-3 Friday morning April, 19th 2013
(With the win the Vipers moved onto the semi-finals)

Scoring Summary

1st Period:

7:51  Crown Royal  (Goal)  Jamie Dillon  (Assists)  Joe Lodanczyk, Bill Marks
6:54  Vipers  (Goal)  Troy Mick  (Assists)  Ryan Phillips, Derek Gustafson
1:04  Crown Royal  (Goal)  Jeremy Mann  (Assists) 

2nd Period:

11:39  Vipers  (Goal)  Martin Stuchlik  (Assists)  Derek Gustafson, Ryan Phillips
10:23  Vipers  (Goal)  Scott Krahn  (Assists)  Petr Chytka, Troy Mick
4:57  Vipers  (Goal)  Ryan Phillips  (Assists)  Troy Mick, Martin Stuchlik
4:30  Vipers  (Goal)  Ryan Phillips (2)  (Assists)  Derek Gustafson, Martin Stuchlik

3rd Period:

2:34  Crown Royal  (Goal)  Jay Graunstadt  (Assists) 

MVP:

Vipers:  Ryan Phillips
Crown Royal:  Julien Delvecchio

Game 3

The Vipers defeated Fubar 10-5 Friday afternoon April, 19th 2013
(With the win the Vipers moved onto the Gambler Cup Finals)

Scoring Summary

1st Period:

9:13  Fubar  (Goal)  Mario Laflamme  (Assists)  Mike Lloyd, Brad Hutchinson
5:36  Vipers  (Goal)  Carlos Hernandez  (Assists)  Martin Stuchlik
3:23  Fubar  (Goal)  Curtis Warwaruk  (Assists)  Sammy Donaghay, Mario Laflamme
1:56  Vipers  (Goal)  Scott Krahn  (Assists)  Martin Stuchlik, Ryan Phillips
:18  Vipers  (Goal)  Scott Krahn (2)  (Assists)  Petr Chytka, Martin Stuchlik

2nd Period:

8:56  Fubar  (Goal)  Brad Hutchinson  (Assists)  Mario Laflamme, Mike Lloyd
7:38  Vipers  (Goal)  Ryan Phillips  (Assists)  Martin Stuchlik, Derek Gustafson
:32  Fubar  (Goal)  Mario Laflamme (2)  (Assists)  Jeff Fraser, Brad Hutchinson

3rd Period:

10:35  Vipers  (Goal)  Martin Stuchlik  (Assists)  Ryan Phillips
10:12  Vipers  (Goal)  Troy Mick  (Assists)  Scott Krahn
9:34  Vipers  (Goal)  Derek Gustafson  (Assists)  Tyler Knight, Ryan Phillips
8:28  Vipers  (Goal)  Ryan Phillips (2)  (Assists)  Martin Stuchlik, Tyler Knight
8:04  Vipers  (Goal)  Scott Krahn (3)  (Assists)  Petr Chytka, Troy Mick
7:35  Vipers  (Goal)  Scott Krahn (4)  (Assists)  Petr Chytka, Martin Stuchlik
3:50  Fubar  (Goal)  Brad Hutchinson (2)  (Assists)  Mike lloyd

MVP:

Vipers:  Scott Krahn
Fubar:  Brad Hutchinson
 
Game 4 (Gamblers Cup Final)

The Vipers defeated Crown Royal 13-4 Saturday afternoon April, 20th 2013 to capture the 2013 Gambers Cup.

Scoring Summary

1st Period:

5:51  Vipers  (Goal)  Martin Stuchlik  (Assists)
3:17  Vipers  (Goal)  Derek Gustafson  (Assists)  Petr Chytka, Carlos Hernandez

2nd Period:

10:17  Vipers  (Goal)  Derek Gustafson (2)  (Assists)  Ryan Phillips, Martin Stuchlik
7:38  Vipers  (Goal)  Scott Krahn  (Assists)  Carlos Hernandez
6:44  Vipers  (Goal)  Ryan Phillips  (Assists)  Martin Stuchlik
4:50  Vipers  (Goal)  Derek Gustafson (3)  (Assists)  Ryan Phillips, Troy Mick
2:33  Crown Royal  (Goal)  Jamie Dillion  (Assists)
1:36  Vipers  (Goal)  Petr Chytka  (Assists)  Ryan Phillips, Martin Stuchlik
:27  Vipers  (Goal)  Scott Krahn (2)  (Assists)  Lennie Rampone

3rd Period:

10:46  Crown Royal  (Goal)  Jay Graunstadt  (Assists)  Patrick Bisson
9:08  Vipers  (Goal)  Petr Chytka (2)  (Assists)  Derek Gustafson, Ryan Phillips
7:17  Vipers  (Goal)  Scott Krahn (3)  (Assists)  Ryan Phillips, Martin Stuchlik
4:12  Vipers  (Goal)  Martin Stuchlik (2)  (Assists)  Petr Chytka, Derek Gustafson
2:19  Vipers  (Goal)  Carlos Hernandez  (Assists)  Ryan Phillips, Lennie Rampone
1:15  Vipers  (Goal)  Ryan Phillips (2)  (Assists)  Scott Krahn, Lennie Rampone

MVP:

Vipers:  Chet Obindinsky
Crown Royal:  Jamie Dillon

Vipers Tournament Team Scoring Leaders:

Ryan Phillips 6-12-18
Martin Stuchlik 5-12-17
Derek Gustafson 6-8-14
Petr Chytka  4-9-13
Scott Krahn 8-2-10
Troy Mick 4-4-8
Lennie Rampone 0-6-6
Carlos Hernandez 2-4-6
Tyler Knight  1-3-4
Zee Kehn  0-1-1

Tuesday, May 14, 2013

Former Viper Tambellini Named RBC Cup Star Of The Day:

Former Vernon Vipers forward Adam Tambellini was named The star of the day at the Royal Bank Cup Monday.  Tambellini and the Surrey Eagles are 2-0 at the RBC Cup.  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. 

Adam Tambellini's Player Profile:

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

This is posted on the Hockey Canada website:

Star of the Day

DAY 3 – MONDAY, MAY 13

Adam Tambellini (F) – Surrey Eagles


Eagles captain Brett Mulcahy may have been the hero, scoring the overtime winner to beat Summerside, but Surrey would not have even reached the extra period were it not for the efforts of Adam Tambellini, who was in on all four of his team’s goals in regulation time, scoring twice and adding two assists. The younger brother of 2001-02 national Junior A player of the year and former NHLer Jeff Tambellini, who played in an RBC Cup himself with Chilliwack in 2002, Adam saved his best for the third period, setting up Devon Toews for the 4-3 marker on an Eagles power play before sending the game to overtime with his second goal, batting the puck out of mid-air with 4:25 remaining.

Former Viper Twins Connor & Kellen Jones Sit Down With Road To The Pros:

Here is an article & interview I found on former Vernon Vipers Connor & Kellen Jones. 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.quinnipiacbobcats.com/sports/mice/2011-12/bios/jones%20connor%20gczj

Kellen Jones Player Profile:

http://www.quinnipiacbobcats.com/sports/mice/2011-12/bios/jones%20kellen%20rmzy

This is posted on "Road2thepros.com" website:

Road to the Pros

Making the Show

Connor and Kellen Jones Sit Down With Road To The Pros

April 22, 2013 by road2pros

Jordan Samuels-Thomas @jsamuelsthomas

Regardless of their recent run to the pinnacle of college hockey that resulted in a loss for Quinnipiac in the Frozen Four title game to its arch-rival Yale, the Jones twins are proven winners. The twins are winners of two BCHL titles, two RBC titles and took silver in the World Junior ‘A’ Challenge. These two players have been a big part of every team they’ve been a part of. Connor, boasts a heavy shot and face-off winning percentage which has him among the leaders in both categories every year, while Kellen (Edmonton Oilers daft pick) plays a more graceful role that has led him to become a leader on the Quinnipiac’s top power-play line. Kellen is among the team’s leaders in assists often dishing to his brother or ESPN Top-10 sensation Matthew Peca. The twins were kind enough to sit down and talk about the success they have witnessed over the past several seasons. While their talent on the ice is often noted, who they are off the ice is a something that fans unfortunately never get to see.

Jordan Samuels-Thomas talks with the Jones Twins on there Junior Hockey career in Vernon & their time with the Vipers.  Click on the link below for the interview.

http://road2thepros.com/2013/04/22/connor-and-kellen-jones-sit-down-with-road-to-the-pros/