Sunday, August 31, 2014

Vipers Training Camp: Team White 5 Team Blue 2

I was at the Vipers Training Camp this evening and watched Team White defeat Team Blue 5-2 in the lone scrimmage game of the day.

Starting Goaltenders:

Team White: Gunner Neilson
Team Blue: Daniel Toews

1st Period: Off the opening puck drop Team White was all over Team Blue.  It looked alot like the 1st period from last night's Vipers-Vees Exhibition game as Team White carried the play and dominated Team Blue.  Team White with lots of good opportunities were moving the puck well, creating lots of chances.  Team Blue couldnt get any offence going and were held in their own end most of the period.  Daniel Toews made a stop off a penalty shot.  The player for Team White who took the shot had no number on his jersey.  TJ Dumonceaux, Thomas Aldworth & Linden Hora scored for Team White who was up 3-0 after the 1st period.

2nd Period: Luke Voltin got Team Blue on the board before Kurt Sonne gave Team White a 4-1 lead.  Team Blue slowly started to come on as the period went on and looked a little better.  With running time the game was stopped halfway through the period where the ice was cleaned.  Both teams switched goaltenders at this point.  Danny Todosychuk replaced Daneil Toews who gave up four goals while Jarrod Schamerhorn replaced Gunner Neilson who gave up just a single goal.  Team Blue looked and played much better especially in the second half of the period.  Team Blue finally was able to generate some chances and get some looks at the net.  Schamerhorn looked pretty good in goal making a few good stops.  Team White was up 4-1 after the 2nd.

3rd Period:  Team Blue with there best period of the game carried the better of the play, was getting lots of good chances.  Team White managed a few opportunities but didnt dominate the play like the opening period.  Chris Harper's point shot looked to be redirected in past Schamerhorn cutting Team White's lead to two goals before Blaine Caton with a wicked shot gave Team White a 5-2 lead.  Schamerhorn made a poke check save off Jeff Bouchon played well in the final period of the scrimmage.  Team White come away with the 5-2 victory.

Players I thought stood out

Team White:

Ayden McDonald really impressed me.  The line of McDonald, TJ Dumonceaux (1 goal) and Thomas Aldworth looked very good.  McDonald & Aldworth both look to have some good size and go hard to the net.  Both players were always in and around the net.

The line of Jagger Willamson, Blaine Caton (1 goal) & Linden Hora (1 goal) also looked pretty good.  Hora looked pretty good but it was Caton who caught my attention.  This kid looks like he has put on some weight since last season.  I thought Caton really stood out tonight, looked good with and without the puck.  Good skater, good hands and has a wicked shot.

Ryley Booth I thought looked good and played very good on the blueline. 

Jarrod Schamerhorn has some size and looked good between the pipes.  The former Merritt Centennials goaltender was steady making several key saves.  Looks confident, dosnt give out any rebounds.

Team Blue:

Brendan Wagner I thought was Team Blues top player or atleast the one kid I thought that really stood out for me.  Wagner had a few chances tonight looked good with the puck.

Branden Saretsky who recorded three points in last night's win over the Penticton Vees caught my eye tonight.  I thought he played well.

Here is a look at the lineups-rosters from tonight's scrimmage

Team White:

Goaltenders:

Gunner Neilson
Jarrod Schamerhorn

Defence:

Luke Shiplo
Johnny Coughlin
Trever Pereverzoff
Riley Guenther
Ryley Booth
Cameron Trott

Forwards:

Ayden McDonald
TJ Dumonceaux
Thomas Aldworth
Jagger Willamson
Blaine Caton
Linden Hora
Ben Williams
Kaden Black
Mackenzie Bauer
Jackson Nauss
Max Newton
Kurt Sonne

Team Blue:

Goaltenders:

Danny Todosychuk
Daniel Toews

Defence:

Jake Emilio
Liam Feeney
Alex McGoveren
Kenny Citron
Chris Harper
Jordan Boulton
Spencer Stark

Forwards:

Luke Voltin
Kyle Tanev
Jeff Bouchon
Nick Gnazdowsky
Trever Fiddler
Brendan Wagner
Branden Saretsky
Levi Johnson
Anthony Latina
Riley Brandt
Matt Jallbert
Carter Shannon

New-Look Vipers Take The Ice:

This is in today's Morning Star Newspaper:

New-look Vipers take the ice

by  Tyler Lowey - Vernon Morning Star

posted Aug 31, 2014 at

You are going to need a roster sheet handy to keep track of the 60 new Vernon Vipers who began scraping up the freshly-painted Kal Tire Place ice Friday morning as training camp got underway.

The theme at this year’s camp is turnover. Not the apple pie or giveaway variety, but this year’s Vipers will have a completely different look, player-wise.

Kenny Citron, Michael McNicholas, Riley Guenther, Liam Coughlin, T.J. Dumonceaux and Danny Todosychuk are the only returnees from last year’s RBC Cup semi-final run.

Citron, 20, is embracing his new role as a veteran in the locker room.

“I’m going to bring the compete level everyday to practice and push the tempo so when we get into games, its not going to be a big deal for us,” said Citron.

Of those impressionable 60 recruits were a pair of local kids who grew up idolizing the Vipers.

Jagger Williamson (no relation to head coach/GM Jason Williamson) has caught the eye of the coaching staff already and is looking to utilize his speed in camp.

“I see myself as a third or fourth line guy right now. I’m going to bring positive energy, be creative on the ice and move the puck,” said Williamson.

The curly-haired right-winger attends Fulton Secondary and collected Vipers hockey cards when he was in atom.

“I’ve always wanted to be part of the Vipers. Hunter Bishop and the Jones twins were my favourites. Hopefully this will be my year,” said Williamson, whose off-season workout partner, Blaine Caton, will enter Grade 12 when classes resume at Vernon Secondary.

The two have been placed on the same team for training camp as he settles into practice.

“I was good when I woke up this morning, but as it got closer to ice time I started to get a little nervous,” said Caton. “But I thought the skate went well, it was a tough one, but my legs got through it.”

Caton is a left-handed centre who loves to play in his own end just as much as he does in the offensive zone. He felt a little more comfortable on the ice having known a few of the other skaters.

Last year’s recipient of the Fan Favourite award, Dumonceaux, is back and ready for his final stint with the Snakes.

“It felt great to get back and see all the guys again. We’ve got a brand new team this year and I’m looking forward to fulfilling my role as a hard working player for these young guys to see,” said Dumonceaux, who bagged seven goals and 20 points in 55 games last winter.
Practices continued Saturday morning, leading up to a exhibition match with the Penticton Vees at Kal Tire Place. Camp continues today with more practices and more scrimmages against other Viper prospects. The highlight of the camp will be the Blue versus White All-Star game  at 11 a.m. Monday.

The Vipers next exhibition game goes Friday when they travel to Salmon Arm for a tilt with the SilverBacks.

SNAKE BITES: It was announced late Friday that former Vipers assistant coach David Robinson is returning to the ice as a player, committing to Vancouver’s UBC Thunderbirds...The Canadian Junior Hockey League released its preseason top-20 rankings Friday morning, and the Albert League’s Fort McMurray Oil Barons topped the polls. The Penticton Vees will enter the season as the No. 2 seed. The Carleton Place Canadians, who lost the RBC Cup final, are in the seventh spot and the defending national champion Yorkton Terriers are ranked eighth.

Saturday, August 30, 2014

Former Viper Captain-Assistant Coach Robinson Joins Thunderbirds:

Former Vernon Vipers captain & Assistant Coach David Robinson has joined the UBC Thunderbirds.  Robinson recently stepped down as Assistant Coach this off season after spending the past two seasons with the Vipers as an Assistant Coach.  Robinson played four games as an "AP" with the Vipers during the 2006-07 season before joining the WHL Chilliwack Bruins.  Robinson spent three seasons with the Bruins before returning to Vernon in January joining the Vipers during the 2009-10 season.  Robinson would finish his final year of Junior hockey as captain of his hometown Vipers during the 2010-11 season before joining the University of Calgary Dinasours for one season.

David Robinson's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=33549

This is posted on the Thunderbirds website:

Georgeson, Robinson and Rossignol join UBC men's hockey

8/29/2014

VANCOUVER – Three more players have committed to playing for the UBC Thunderbirds men's hockey program, completing the recruiting class for first-year head coach Tyler Kuntz.

Forwards Justin Georgeson, David Robinson and Adam Rossignol will bring a wide range of experience to the Thunderbirds lineup as the team gets ready for the 2014-15 Canada West season.

JUSTIN GEORGESON (5'9 centre/right winger | Maple Ridge, BC)
Georgeson, a native of Maple Ridge, is a 5-foot-9 forward who played three years with the Coquitlam Express and one with the Alberni Valley Bulldogs, both BC Hockey League teams.

"I am extremely excited to be a part of such a prestigious institution," said Georgeson. "I feel very fortunate to be granted the opportunity to play so close to my hometown and to be part of a great team with high-level players.

"It's always been my goal to receive a first-class education while prolonging my hockey career, and I can't think of a more suitable environment for that. I have to thank my family for affording me every opportunity to reach my ultimate goal of playing university hockey."

Georgeson improved his offensive numbers in each BCHL season, culminating in a 53-point (19 goals and 34 assists) campaign in his only year with Alberni Valley in 2013-14. In 164 regular season games with Coquitlam, he scored 37 goals and 50 assists for 87 points. He added two goals and four assists in 17 postseason career appearances in the BCHL.

"We are extremely thrilled to add another local player from the BCHL to our program," said Kuntz. "Justin is a player that I am very familiar with from his days in the BCHL with the Coquitlam Express and Alberni Valley Bulldogs.

"He is a determined, intelligent, and skilled centreman that can play up down your line-up and in all situations. He will compete hard and develop into a very good CIS hockey player. Justin will add value to our program both on and off the ice."

DAVID ROBINSON (5'10 left winger/centre | Vernon, BC)

Robinson will return to ice after spending the last two seasons as an assistant coach with his hometown Vernon Vipers of the BCHL.

"I am very excited to be joining such a great program at UBC," said Robinson. "I have known Tyler for a few years now and I believe the program will continue to grow under him. Although it could take some time for me to get back to the speed of things on the ice, I am ready to contribute in any way possible for this team to have success."

Before becoming a coach, Robinson played for the Vipers as well as the Calgary Dinos (CIS) and the Western Hockey League's Chilliwack Bruins.

Between 2007 and 2010, Robinson recorded 43 points, 23 goals and 20 assists, for Chilliwack in 169 games at the major junior level. He went scoreless in four postseason outings.

He played four games with Vernon during the 2006-07 season and then returned to the Vipers during the latter half of the 2009-10 campaign, helping to team to a Royal Bank Cup national championship victory. Robinson captained Vernon back to a second-place finish at the Royal Bank Cup the next year.

He tallied 47 goals and 28 assists for 75 points in 80 regular season appearances for Vernon. He added another 21 points (eight goals and 13 assists) in 35 Vipers playoff games.

After junior hockey, Robinson suited up for the Calgary Dinos, recording six assists in 28 league games. He also played in six playoff games.

Robinson now returns to the Canada West.

"When I learned of David's decision to play hockey again, I didn't think twice about pursuing him," said Kuntz. "I think very highly of David as a person and a player and feel once he makes the transition to the level and speed of play, he will be a solid contributor on the ice.

"David has won a national championship and that experience will be a great addition to the group. He is a very hard-working and versatile player that can play up and down our line-up. We are happy to add him to the Thunderbirds family."

ADAM ROSSIGNOL (6'0 centre/left winger | Surrey, BC)

Rossignol will bring the experience of five WHL campaigns and two long playoff runs to the UBC program. The 6-0 forward was part of Kootenay's championship victory in 2011 and helped Portland to the 2014 final series this past spring.

"I am very excited, blessed, and humbled to have an opportunity to play at the University of British Columbia," said Rossignol. "It has always been a dream of mine to attend a school with such a high regard for academics as well as athletics.

"Playing the last four seasons in the Western Hockey League has been a great experience and prepared me well for my future going forward as a person and a player. To be able to continue to play hockey at an elite level, and attend a world-class school is a dream scenario and I can't wait to get started."

In between the WHL titles, Rossignol, a Surrey native, also played for Regina and Swift Current as well as Coquitlam of the BCHL.

In 223 WHL games, he scored 24 goals and recorded 33 assists for 57 points. In 29 postseason games, he had a goal and an assist. In a short stint with Coquitlam, Rossignol tallied four goals and 18 assists for 22 points in 17 games.

"Adam comes to our program with championship pedigree," said Kuntz. "He is a WHL champion and has been a part of some great programs with a tradition of winning. Adam has a reputation of being a strong worker and a very good teammate. I have been very impressed thus far in my dealings with Adam and feel he will be a very proud and passionate Thunderbird."

The UBC hockey season gets underway on Tuesday, Sept. 9 with a non-conference game against the Simon Fraser club team at the Doug Mitchell Thunderbird Sports Centre at 7:15 p.m. After a tournament Sept. 12-14 in Regina, the Thunderbirds will open Canada West regular season play with a home series Sept. 26-27 against the Alberta Golden Bears at Father David Bauer Arena.

Exhibition: Vernon 5 Penticton 3

For anyone who could not attend or watch tonight’s Vipers game here are my thoughts and views from tonight’s game. You may agree or disagree but we all have our own view and opinion on any game we watch. This is my opinion and my thoughts on how I saw tonight’s game. I try to be unbiased and give a fare recap on both sides. Thanks for stopping by & visiting my blog.

I was at tonight's pre-season game between the Vipers & Vees as Vernon defeated Penticton 5-3 at Kal Tire Place.

Starting Goaltenders:

Vernon: Gunner Neilson
Penticton: Shane Farkas

1st Period: The Vipers got off to a quick start and had the early jump between the two teams scoring early to open the scoring.  Logan Geefs from behind the net setup Mathew Jallabert at the side of the net who beat Vees starting goaltender Shane Farkas in front giving Vernon an earl 1-0 lead at 2:50 Geefs & Branden Saretsky collected the assists.  The Vipers were really buzzing early and often carrying the better of the play for most of the period.  Vernon with some good passing made cycled the puck well down low didnt get alot of great opportunities but created several chances in and around the net.  Vernon would get the games first powerplay, the Vipers with a strong man advantage would get five shots on the PP couldnt capitalize as Penticton would kill off the minor.  Shane Farkas had to be sharp as the Vipers peppered the rookie goaltender with several shots in the opening period.  Jeff Bouchon had an opportunity to go in alone for a breakaway, didnt have the wheels to catch up to the loose puck before being stopped after a strong defensive play by d-man Austin Cho.  The Vees who dressed all prospects for tonight's game couldnt get much going offensively needed fifteen minutes to record their first shot of the game.  The Vees would have a few hard working shifts in the final minutes showed their best effort of the period late in the 1st.  The Vipers would get their second powerplay of the night late, Mackenzie Bauer with a good opportunity down low couldnt get the puck up and over the Vees goaltender as well as several bodies in front of the Penticton goal.  The Vipers would run out of time as the period ended wich the remainder of the PP would carry into the 2nd period.  The Vipers were up 1-0 after 20 minutes of play.  Vernon outplayed Penticton most of the period carried the better of the play.  The Vipers speed and skill really showed in the period as the younger Vees squad had troubles offensively and defensively.  Farkas was very good between the pipes kept Penticton in the game.  The Vees couldnt generate any offence, had all kinds of troubles with their breakout.  Penticton had troubles getting pucks and bodies to the net all period.  Vernon outshot Penticton 22-3.

2nd Period:  The Vipers started the period with the man advantage that was carried over from the opening period.  The Vees for a second straight penalty kill were able to kill off the Viper attack.  Five minutes into the middle frame Max Newton would go in alone on the breakaway but would be stopped by a huge pad save from Shane Farkas keeping this a one goal game.  Vernon didnt seem to have the jump or speed they showed in the 1st period as the Vees slowly come on in the period showing a little more intensity.  Penticton who didnt use the body much in the 1st come out checking often in this period.  Penticton needed just over six minutes to get their first shot of the period before their hard work would eventually pay off as the Vees would tie the game on a nice three way passing play.  Chase Stevenson setup Tak Anholt who fed Jesse Lansdell who found the open net in front tied the game 1-1 at 7:36 Stevenson & Lansdell picked up the helpers.  On the next play Vernon would get their third man advantage of the game but again couldnt convert.  During a stopage in play the Vipers would switch goaltenders just seconds before the halfway mark of the period.  Daniel Toews would replace Vipers starting goaltender Gunner Neilson who gave up one goal on five Penticton shots.  With the Vipers still on the powerplay Vernon would move the puck around well had some good looks couldnt capitalize.  Just as the powerplay expired Cameron Trott's screened point shot found the back of the net giving Vernon a 2-1 lead at 10:03 Branden Saretsky with the lone assist.  Farkas had no chance on the goal would get pulled from the game after giving up Vernon's second goal.  Backup Joseph McCleod would finish the game for the Penticton Vees.  Farkas gave up two goals on thirty one Viper shots.  Just over two minutes later Kaden Black with a wrap around couldnt beat McLeod down low who played the shot well kept this a one goal game.  Just a few minutes later Kurt Sonne on an odd man rush come down the right wing through the puck towards the net almost catching Joseph McCleod off guard but the Vees goaltender made a very difficult looking save.  McLeod with two big back to back saves kept Penticton in the game.  Penticton would get their first man advantage of the evening had some good pressure but couldnt capitalize.  The Vees looked to bounce back late in the second half created some chances and played a much better period.  Daniel Toews looked very shaky early missing on several Vees shots as the Vipers were lucky those shots missed the net.  Penticton would get several shots on Toews from in close but couldnt hit the net.  Penticton would tie the game late after Adam Sinclair beat Toews from the slot at 17:16 Nicholas Wilson and Blake Holowaty picked up the assists.  It was tied 2-2 after 40 minutes of play.  The Vees responded with wich I thought was a much better played period compared to the 1st.  I didnt think the Vees looked that great but played much better.  The Vipers didnt seem to have the same jump or intensity as they played with in the opening frame.  Vernon did have the better of the scoring chances but were also outplayed in their own zone at times through out the second period.  Penticton stepped up the physical play laying out several checks.  The Vipers outshot the Vees 14-6.

3rd Period: Like the opening period Vernon responded early finding the back of the net.  Max Newton setup Branden Saretsky at 1:16 for his third point of the game, gave the Vipers a 3-2 lead.  Newton with the lone helper.  Chase Moog was slow to get up after taking a hit-coliding with a Vernon player in the Vees end.  Moog went back to the Penticton bench and was looked after by the team trainer.  Shortly after the Vipers with their fourth powerplay would get their first goal on the man advantage after Jackson Nauss on a nice three way passing play found the back of the net at 2:58 giving Vernon a two goal lead.  Logan Geefs and Spencer Stark with the assists.  Just over four minutes later Adam Sinclair with his second of the night got the Vees back to within one at 7:20 Blake Holowaty and Nicholas Wilson with the assists.  But just over two minutes later the Vipers would regain their two goal lead.  Kurt Sonne setup Mackenzie Bauer who from the far corner slid the puck along the ice that looked to just trickle under the pads-body of Joseph McCleod giving Vernon a 5-3 lead at 9:30 Sonne & Alex McGoverin picked up the assists.  Both teams defensive play wasnt that strong as both hockey teams looked a little loose in their own end at times.  Adam Sinclair who had lots of jump, really showed his speed tonight had two good chances in the final frame for Penticton but couldnt beat Daniel Toews who seemed to calm down and play much better in the third.  Toews made atleast two quick glove hand saves in the final frame when the Vees had a little pressure.  Not much happened in the final six-seven minutes as it looked like a pond hockey game with not alot of flow.  Penticton would get a late powerplay and pull McLeod for the extra attacker.  With some pressure late the Vipers were able to hold on for the 5-3 victory.  A 2-2 tie heading into the period saw both teams score four goals all within the first ten minutes.  The Vipers with two big back to back goals to start the period only allowed one to come away with the win.  This was a pretty evenly matched period with both teams getting a few opportunities.  Both teams had troubles defensively.  Shots were even 10-10.

Top Players: (Vernon)

Chris Harper I thought looked good and played very well on the Vipers backend.  Looked more relaxed and confident through out the game.  Played well with and without the puck.

Trever Pereverzoff also looked good and played well through out tonight's game.  Another d-man that stood out in his own end and on the powerplay. 

Jeff Bouchon played with alot of jump and intensity most of the night.  Showed his speed and determination through out the contest was really hustling. 

Branden Saretsky (1 goal & 2 assists) Also looked good up front for the Vernon Vipers.  Showed alot of skill in and around the Vees net.

Mackenzie Bauer (1 goal) Was another Vipers forward that stood out for me this evening.  Played with alot of hustle and showed hard work through out the game.  Was always buzzing in and around the net.

Max Newton (1 assist) Was stopped on a 2nd period breakaway also looked good up front for the Vipers.

Game Thought's: (Vernon)

The Vipers with sixy five players at Training Camp this weekend went with all prospects tonight as no new recruits or players returning from last year's team were in the lineup.  Vernon looked to dress several Junior B type calibre players as the Vipers looked to show alot more skill on the ice tonight.  I thought the Vipers looked at their best in the opening period, only scored once but took it too the Vees getting 22 shots on rookie goaltender Shane Farkas.  The Vipers showed alot of skill, speed and puck handling-passing plays in the 1st.  I liked Vernon's passing tonight and thought the powerplay looked good.  Vernon didnt seem to have the jump or intensity they played with in the first twenty minutes but played well for a group who are all playing together in a competitive game for the first time.  I thought the Vipers looked and played pretty good for the teams first pre-season game of the year.  But remember the Vipers look to have their team already picked with 21 new recruits-players returning from last season.  These kids you saw play tonight I dont think will be here next weekend.

Top Players: (Penticton)

Shane Farkas (29 saves) Gave up two goals on thirty one shots played very well between the pipes for the Penticton Vees tonight.  Farkas was very good in a period and a half before giving up his duties to backup Joseph McCleod. 

Austin Cho I thought was Penticton's best defenceman.  Made a strong defensive play in the 1st period to breakup a breakaway on Vipers forward Jeff Bouchon.  Cho played very well through out the game.

Adam Sinclair (2 goals) Showed off his speed, this kid was really flying tonight.  Had a few good opportunities in the third played well.

Raphael Bassot looked good and played well in the first and parts of the 2nd period but I didnt notice the rookie forward much at all in the third period. 

Game Thought's: (Penticton)

The Penticton Vees went with all young prospects for tonight's matchup as no new recruits or veteran players from last years team were in the lineup and it showed.  The Vees were outplayed pretty good in the 1st period outshot 22-3 but on the good side only gave up a single goal.  Penticton who played most of the first period in their own end had all kinds of troubles getting through the neutral zone and getting any kind of offence in the Vipers zone.  The Vees needed fifteen minutes to record their first shot of the game and in all three periods went several minutes off the start of the period to get a shot on goal.  As the game went on I thought the Vees improved a little but you could see the Vipers had more skill, speed and older players in the lineup.  I liked Penticton's goaltending.  I dont know how many kids the Vees have in Camp but you can bet the Vees roster is getting close to the final 22 players and you wont see any of these kids from tonight's game next weekend.

Three Stars:

1st Star: Branden Saretsky (1 goal & 2 assists)
2nd Star: Adam Sinclair (2 goals)
3rd Star: Logan Geefs (2 assists)

Here is a look at both teams rosters-lineups from tonight

Vernon:

Gunnar Neilson
Daniel Toews

Chris Harper
Alex McGoverin
Nick Higgs
Trever Pereverzoff
Spencer Stark
Cameron Trott
Levi Johnson
Kaden Black
Jeff Bouchon
Branden Saretsky
Mathew Jallabert
Logan Geefs
Jackson Nauss
Carter Shannon
Mackenzie Bauer
Kurt Sonne
Max Newton
Jordan Passmore

Penticton:

Shane Farkas
Joseph McCleod

Austin Cho
Colten Gerlib
Griffin James
Greg Brydon
Cal Walker
Simon Snyman
Nathan Lannone
Blake Holowaty
Nicholas Wilson
Chase Stevenson
Adam Sinclair
Tak Anholt
Jesse Lansdell
Sam Binfet
Taylor Ward
Raphael Bassot
Desi Burgart
Chase Moog

For more on tonight's game visit Fraser Rodgers Penticton Vees blog,

http://pentictonvees.wordpress.com/

(Game Preview) Exhibition: Penticton @ Vernon:

Penticton (0-0-0-0) @ Vernon (0-0-0-0) 5pm start

Tonight is the first pre-season game for both the Vernon Vipers & Penticton Vees.  This is the first exhibition game between these two teams since the 2005-06 season where Vernon won both games.  The Vipers went 3-3-0-1 vs Penticton last season.

Next Game:

Friday, September 5th Vernon @ Salmon Arm
Friday, September 5th West Kelowna @ Penticton

Since the 2002-03 regular season Vernon is 38-30-2-6 vs. Penticton

Since the 2002-03 regular season Vernon has outscored Penticton 231-222

Since the 2003-04 regular season Vernon is 20-11-1-1 at home vs. Penticton

Since the 2003-04 regular season Vernon is 15-15-1-2 in Penticton

Vernon is 2-6-0-2 in their last ten visits to Penticton

Penticton is 6-4-0-0 in their last ten visits to Vernon

The Vipers are 4-5-0-1 in their last ten games vs. Penticton

Vernon's last win at home vs Penticton was a 4-3 victory on Saturday, February 22nd 2014

Penticton's last win at the Kal Tire Place was a 6-1 victory back on Friday, January 24th 2014

Vernon's last win at the South Okanagan Events Centre was a 2-1 victory back on Friday, February 14th 2014

Penticton's last win at home vs Vernon was a 5-2 victory back on Wednesday, November 20th 2013

The Vipers went 3-3-0-1 vs Penticton last season

Lets take a look at the Vernon Vipers:

The Interior Division Champion Vernon Vipers finished last season with a 30-18-4-6 record finishing 3rd place in the Interior Division falling out in the League Finals in six games to the Fred Page Cup Champion Coquitlam Express.  The Vipers season didnt end there, Vernon was the host city for the 2014 Royal Bank Cup National Championship where the Vipers fell short of a seventh National Championship losing to the eventual RBC Cup Champion Yorkton Terriers in the semi-finals.  The Vipers have just five returning players from last season's RBC Cup team as well as two new Assistant Coaches and a new trainer.  Tonight is the first of six pre-season games for Vernon who will play four exhibition games on home ice before opening the regular season in Chilliwack vs Cowichan. 

Brett Mulcahy (30-15-45) lead the Vipers last season in goals with thirty

Michael McNicholas (23-46-69) lead the Vipers last season in points with sixty nine

Graham Turnbull's Vernon Vipers Venom Blog

http://vipersvenom1.blogspot.ca/

Vernon Vipers 2013-14 Regular Season Stats:

Games Played: 58
Wins:  30
Losses: 18
Ties: 4
Overtime Losses:  6
Home Record: 17-6-3-3
Road Record: 13-12-1-3
Goals For: 187
Goals Against: 175
Place: 3rd Place
Streak: Finished the season with a two game losing streak

Vernon Vipers 2014-15 Pre-Season Stats:

Games Played: 0
Wins: 0
Losses: 0
Ties: 0
Home Record: 0-0-0-0
Road Record: 0-0-0-0
Goals For: 0
Goals Against: 0
Streak:

Vernon Vipers Returning Players:

TJ Dumonceaux (94)
Danny Todosychuk (94)
Riley Guenther (94)
Kenny Citron (95)
Liam Coughlin (94)

Vernon Vipers Departing & traded players from last years team:

Dexter Dancs (95)
Michael McNicholas (94)
Brett Mulcahy (93)
Demico Hannoun (95)
Jared Wilson (94)
Colton Sparrow (93)
Mason Blacklock (94)
Josh Bryan (93)
Brendan Persley (93)
Logan Mick (96)
Ryan Renz (93)
Michael Statchuk (94)
Tyler Povelofskie (96)
Matty Saharchuk (95)
Austin Smith (93)
Dylan Chanter (95)

Vernon’s Home record vs Penticton last season:

2-2-0-0

Vernon’s Road record vs Penticton last season:

1-1-0-1

Vernon’s scoring leaders vs Penticton last season:

Demico Hannoun (0-5-5)
Dexter Dancs (3-2-5)
Logan Mick (1-4-5)
Josh Bryan (1-3-4)
Brendan Persley (2-2-4)
Michael McNicholas (1-2-3)
Riley Guenther (1-1-2)
Matty Saharchuk (0-2-2)
Mason Blacklock (1-1-2)
Liam Coughlin (0-2-2)
Jared Wilson (1-1-2)
TJ Dumonceaux (2-0-2)
Ryan Renz (1-1-2)
Mark Hamilton (1-0-1)
Kenny Citron (1-0-1)
Michael Statchuk (0-1-1)
Colton Sparrow (0-1-1)

Danny Todosychuk (1-2 Record)
Austin Smith (2-2 Record)

-Vernon finished last season with the leagues 16th best powerplay

-Vernon finished last season with the leagues 9th best penalty kill



Lets take a look at the Penticton Vees:

The Interior Division Pennant Winning Penticton Vees finished the 2013-14 season tied with West Kelowna for 1st place but the Vees would clinch the regular season Division Pennant with more wins after recording a 36-16-2-4 record before losing in seven games in the Interior Division Finals to the Vernon Vipers.  Penticton has eight players coming back this season from last years squad have also brought on a new Assistant Coach behind the bench.  The Vees make their first of four visits to Kal Tire Place this season.  The Vees will be dressing prospects only for tonight's contest.  No veteran players or new recruits will be in the lineup.  Tonight is the first of four pre-season games for the Vees before they open the regular season vs Surrey at the BCHL Showcase in Chilliwack.

Brad McClure (41-39-80) lead the Vees last year in goals with fourty one and in points with eighty

Fraser Rodgers Three Vees blog,

http://pentictonvees.wordpress.com/

Penticton Vees 2013-14 Regular Season Stats:

Games Played: 58
Wins:  36
Losses: 16
Ties: 2
Overtime Losses: 4
Home Record: 19-7-0-3
Road Record: 17-9-2-1
Goals For: 199
Goals Against: 137
Place: 1st Place
Streak: Finished the season with a two game winning streak

Penticton Vees 2014-15 Pre-Season Stats:

Games Played: 0
Wins: 0
Losses: 0
Ties: 0
Home Record: 0-0-0-0
Road Record: 0-0-0-0
Goals For: 0
Goals Against: 0
Streak:

Penticton Vees Returning Players:

Riley Alferd (95)
Steen Cooper (95)
Cody DePourcq (95)
Jarod Hilderman (97)
Jack Ramsey (95)
Matthew Serratore (94)
Patrick Sexton (94)
Hunter Miska (95)

Penticton Vees Departing & traded players from last years team:

Brad McClure (93)
Brett Beauvais (94)
Nicolas Pierog (93)
Ben Dalpe (94)
Max Coatta (94)
Travis Blanleil (94)
Erik Benoit (93)
Paul Stoykewych (95)
Cam Amantea (94)
Alexandre Coulombe (95)
Shane McColgan (93)
Christopher Rygus (93)
Josh Blanchard (96)
Olivier Mantha (93)

Penticton’s Home record vs. Vernon last season:

2-0-0-1

Penticton’s Road record vs. Vernon last season:

2-2-0-0

Penticton’s scoring leaders vs. Vernon last season:

Cody DePourcq (6-3-9)
Brett Beauvais (1-5-6)
Brad McClure (3-3-6)
Max Coatta (4-1-5)
Anthony Conti (1-4-5)
Travis Blanleil (1-3-4)
Ben Dalpe (0-4-4)
Shane McColgan (2-2-4)
Erik Benoit (2-2-4)
Nicolas Pierog (1-3-4)
Josh Blanchard (1-2-3)
Steen Cooper (0-3-3)
Paul Stoykewych (0-2-2)
Riley Alfred (0-1-1)
Jared Hilderman (1-0-1)
Jack Ramsey (0-1-1)
Christopher Rygus (0-1-1)
Patrick Sexton (1-0-1)

Olivier Mantha (2-2 Record)
Hunter Miska (2-1 Record)

-Demico Hannoun played 47 games in Vernon last season collecting (15-29-44) in his only season with the Vipers before being traded to Surrey in the off season

-Penticton finished last season with the leagues best powerplay

-The Vees finished last year with the league's best penalty kill

Here's a look at both teams rosters:

Vernon Vipers:

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/stats_1team.cfm?leagueID=2393&clientID=1413&teamid=224096

Penticton Vees:

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/stats_1team.cfm?leagueID=2393&clientID=1413&teamid=224101

Friday, August 29, 2014

Vipers Training Camp Lineup-Rosters:

I wont be able to attend the first day of Vipers Training Camp today but managed to get a copy of the lineup-rosters from camp this morning.

Team Grey:

Jarrod Schemerhorn (95)  (Acquired in trade on July 22nd from Merritt)
Trevor Okino (95)
Mitchell Oliver (97)
Trever Pereverzoff (96)
Alex McGovern (97)
Nick Higgs (98)
Johnny Coughlin (95) (Committed for this season)
Jeff Bouchon (97)
Sam Kozlowski (98)
Levi Johnson (97)
Luke Voltin (95)
Riley Brandt (96)
Jack Surdin (96)
Kaden Black (98)
Nyshan Basra (95)

Team Red:

Danny Todosychuk (94) (Returning for forth season)
Scott Munro (96)
Ryley Booth (96) (Committed for this season)
Jacob Maclaughlin (96)
Shane Kime (97)
Mitchell Torrens (97)
Kenny Citron (95)  (Returning for second season)
Jagger Williamson (98) (Committed for this season)
Nick Gnazdowsky (97)
Max Newton (97)
Blaine Caton (97) (Committed for this season)
Logan Geefs (96)
Mackenzie Bauer (96)
Linden Hora (96) (Committed for this season)
TJ Dumonceaux (94) (Returning for third season)

Team Yellow:

Gunnar Neilson (97)
Daniel Toews (98)
Calvin Hadley (96)
Jordan Boulton (97)
Kenny Batke (95)
Wesley Matsuda (96)
Liam Feeney (95) (Committed for this season)
Jake Emilio (94) (Acquired in trade Thursday from Cobourg Cougars)
Anthony Latina (94) (Acquired in trade August 9th from Carleton Place Canadians)
Jackson Nauss (98)
Pascale Jallabert (97)
Rhett Kingston (97)
Kurt Sonne (96)
Ayden Macdonald (96) (Committed for this season)
Kyle Tanev (94) (Committed for this season)
Carter Shannon (98)

Team Black:

Nick Bruyure (96)
Tristan Quirring (97)
Griffin Fried (96)
Riley Guenther (94) (Returning for second season)
Luke Shiplo (95) (Committed for this season)
Cameron Trott (97)
Brad Bigsby (97)
Spencer Stark (97)
Mitchell Williams (98)
Dallas Otto (97)
Dylan Hogue (96)
Branden Saretsky (96)
Jordan Passmore (96)
Brendan Wagner (96) (Committed for this season)
Trever Fiddler (95) (Committed for this season)
Thomas Aldworth (95) (Committed for this season)

Spots Up For Grabs As Vipers Open Camp:

This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:

Spots up for grabs as Vipers open camp
              
by  Tyler Lowey - Vernon Morning Star

posted Aug 29, 2014

The excitement returns as the Vernon Vipers open the doors on training camp.

Sixty-five hopefuls hit Kal Tire Place this morning with aspirations of donning the snake crest this winter.

“Training camp is one of the most exciting times of the year. Players show up eager, wanting to please us,” said Vipers GM/head coach Jason Williamson. “There is lots of turnover this year, so this one should be exciting.”

There will be plenty of roster spots available this season, as the Vipers saw 15 of last year’s skaters leave for college or graduate from the program.

Players from all over North America will descend on Kal Tire Place. Invitations went out to players from Boston, Texas, Ontario, Alberta and all over B.C., including local products Jagger Williamson, Tristian Quiring, Nick Higgs and Kenny Batke.

“Hopefully we come to a set roster by mid-September,” said Williamson.

Camp begins with practice at 9 a.m. In the afternoon, the group will be randomly split up into four teams with  games at 3 and 5 p.m.

“We are putting the teams together and we are gonna let them figure the game out,” explained Williamson.

The Vipers welcome new assistant coach and Stanley Cup champion Eric Godard behind the bench for camp.

“He has played at the highest level possible, the kids are going to relate to that and listen to what he has to say,” said Williamson.

The Vipers will skate Saturday morning, then host the Penticton Vees  in an exhibition match at 5 p.m. at Kal Tire Place.

Sunday, the snakes will be split up into teams for individual skate sessions.

The Blue all-stars will scrimmage the White all-stars Monday at 11 a.m.

The practices and scrimmages are free to the public.

Thursday, August 28, 2014

Vernon-Cobourg Trade:

This is posted on the BCHL website:

28-Aug-14 The Vernon Vipers have acquired the CJHL playing rights to Jake Emelio (94) (D) from the Cobourg Cougars of the OJHL in exchange for future considerations.

Jake Emelio's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=97166

Jake Emilio Recruiting Video

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_lyAMwE5pLs



Vipers Head Coach-GM Excited About New Season:

This is posted on the HockeyTube website:

Vipers Head Coach-GM Excited About New Season

Posted by HockeyTube on Aug 25th, 2014

Hockeytube.net caught up with Vernon Viper’s GM and head Coach Jason Williamson to talk about the upcoming hockey season. Williamson talks about the number of changes and new faces on the coaching staff.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZitUEnC8H_k#t=34

Vernon Vipers 2014-15 Exhibition Schedule:

Vernon Vipers 2014-15 Exhibition Schedule:

August:

Saturday, August 30th Penticton @ Vernon

September:

Friday, September 5th Vernon @ Salmon Arm
Saturday, September 6th Salmon Arm @ Vernon
Friday, September 12th Prince George @ Vernon
Saturday, September 13th Vernon @ Prince George

Wednesday, August 27, 2014

Former Vernon Lakers Defenceman Kelman Leaves Giants-Named Devils New General Manager:

Former Vernon Lakers defenceman Todd
Kelman has quit & left the Elite Ice Hockey League (EIHL) Belfast Giants to become the new general manager of the British Elite Ice Hockey League (BEIHL) Cardiff Devils. 

The Giants are an ice hockey team from Belfast, Northern Ireland that compete in the Elite Ice Hockey League, while the Devils are a Welsh ice hockey team who play in the British Elite Ice Hockey League.  Kelman played eight seasons with the Giants (2000-2008) before retiring becoming the Giants General Manager. Kelman spent seven season as Giants GM, played one season in Vernon (1992-93) playing in 48 games with the Vernon Lakers collecting (16-goals-30-assists-46-points). Kelman was drafted in Round 6 141st overall by the St. Louis Blues at the 1993 NHL Draft.

Todd Kelman's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=64909

This is posted on the BBC website:

General manager Todd Kelman quits Belfast Giants

13 June 2014

The Belfast Giants general manager Todd Kelman is leaving the club to become part of a Canadian consortium that is buying their Elite League rivals Cardiff Devils.

A Giants statement acknowledged that Kelman's decision would "come as a shock" to the club's fans and players.

Kelman has been at the Giants since 2000 when he was part of the club's first ever squad.

The Canadian was appointed general manager after his retirement in 2007.

Given Kelman's departure, recently-appointed coach Steve Thornton is now expected to assume the duties undertaken by the general manager.

"The appointment of Steve Thornton was part of the development planning for the Giants," said Robert Fitzpatrick, the Chief Executive of Giants owners the Odyssey Trust.

TODD KELMAN FACTFILE

•Born in Calgary, 5 January, 1975
•Drafted by NHL club St Louis Blues, 1993 but never played for them
•Played for Bracknell Bees from 1997-20
•Signed for Belfast Giants 2000 and helped club win League titles in 2003 and 2006
•Appointed Giants general manager after retirement from playing 2007
•Giants have won two League titles since then

"Todd has kept me informed that he was exploring other options in relation to his future plans and whilst this has come a surprise, I am absolutely delighted that he is fulfilling his dream to be a part of owning a franchise.

"We are proud of what Todd has done as general manager and as a player and he will always be remembered fondly on and off the ice, we wish him well."

Thornton said that he excited about his increased responsibilities at the club.

"Although I was looking forward to renewing my working relationship with Todd, it was clearly explained to me that I was in charge of all hockey affairs and I have a vision for the delivery of that challenge," said Thornton.

"I am delighted to be inheriting a group of people including players, staff and volunteers with a great work ethic and a passion for this team who will be key to delivering on the plans we have."

Kelman helped the Giants clinch two League titles during his playing career at the Odyssey Arena.

His spell in charge of the club saw the Giants clinching two league titles including this year's triumph.

Kelman's move is more upheaval for the club after coach Paul Adey's surprise departure from the club in April a couple of weeks after guiding the team to the League title.

Thornton will not be able to call on the talents of winger Chris Higgins next season after the American opted to sign for Nottingham Panthers earlier this week.

This is posted on the Wales online Newspaper:

Todd Kelman is unveiled as Cardiff Devils general manager as Canadian consortium take over

Jun 13, 2014

By Terry Phillips

Kelman, 39, resigned from his position at Belfast Giants yesterday - and has been revealed as new Devils boss today.

Canadian Todd Kelman is the new general manager of Cardiff Devils.

The former Bracknell and Belfast defenceman is coming to Wales after the Elite League Devils were bought by Canadian businessman Steve King.

Kelman, 39, resigned from his position at Belfast Giants yesterday - and has been revealed as new Devils boss today.
New: Cardiff Devils' new owners

He is part of the Canadian consortium, headed up by King, who have are buying the club from Paul Ragan for an undisclosed fee.

Kelman helped Giants clinch two League titles during his playing career at the Odyssey Arena and was appointed general manager after his retirement in 2007.

His time in charge saw Giants clinching two league titles including this year’s triumph plus play-off triumphs.

King and his partners are in the final process of taking over the team.

He is co-founder and CEO of Alaris Royalty in Calgary, Alberta Canada and has known Kelman for 15 years. 

A quick decision is likely on the future of Devils head coach Dave Whistle, who was trying to work with a restricted budget. That budget is certain to rise, but it is not clear yet whether Whistle will be the man in charge.

Whistle came in at the end of last season when Devils were already in trouble near the foot of the table and they eventually finished ninth, missing out on the play-offs.

Devils have signed British goaltender Ben Bowns, who is tied into playing for the club and will be starting goalie next season.

Tomas Kurka, though, made it clear several weeks ago he was not returning to play for the Devils even though he had agreed a two-year contract at almost £1,000 a week.

Kurka is signing for a club in mainland Europe.

Kelman, a former St Louis Blues NHL draft pick, is aiming to start signing players quickly with Mark Richardson and Matthew Myers among the priorities. The two British players look certain to be key players for Devils next season.

Devils’ new management are also in talks with a number of potential import signings and are expected to move quickly.

Kelman plans to host a fan event sometime in the next two weeks to meet with Devils Supporters and lay out his plans for the Devils.  It is anticipated that King will also be in Cardiff for that event.

The time, date and location of this event are still to be confirmed although likely dates are either Thursday, June 26 or Friday, June 27.

Devils new management have agreed to honour all season tickets already bought for the 2014-15 season.

Tuesday, August 26, 2014

Williamson & Former Viper Pierce Named To Canada West Coaching Staff:

Vernon Vipers Head Coach-GM Jason Williamson & former Vernon Vipers forward Luke Pierce (2003-04) have been named to the WJAC Canada West Coaching Staff.

This is posted on the BCHL website:

Coaches named for 2014 WJAC, Pierce and Williamson on Canada West Staff

Monday, August 25, 2014 - Submitted by CJHL Media

CALGARY, Alta. – The Canadian Junior Hockey League, in partnership with Hockey Canada, announced today that Trent Cassan, head coach and general manager of the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League's Yorkton Terriers, will be the head coach of Canada West at the 2014 World Junior A Challenge, scheduled for Dec. 14-20 in Kindersley, Sask.

Cassan will be joined by assistant coaches Tim Fragle (head coach and general manager, Sherwood Park Crusaders, Alberta Junior Hockey League), Luke Pierce (head coach and general manager, Merritt Centennials, British Columbia Hockey League) and Jason Williamson (head coach and general manager, Vernon Vipers, British Columbia Hockey League).

“I am honoured and excited to be able to work with many of the top CJHL players from all over Western Canada,” said Cassan. “The World Junior A Challenge is a first-class event with premier players from all over the world. My experience at the 2013 event in Yarmouth, N.S., was a positive one, and I look forward to working with the staff and representing Canada West in Kindersley in December.”

Trent Cassan, 31, will make his second appearance with Canada West at the World Junior A Challenge, having won a bronze medal as an assistant coach in 2013. Cassan has been head coach and general manager in Yorkton for the past five seasons, leading the team to the SJHL championship and RBC Cup national championship last season. A Terriers alumnus (2002-04), Cassan was named SJHL Coach of the Year in 2012-13.

Tim Fragle, 34, will be an assistant coach with Canada West for the first time at the 2014 World Junior A Challenge.  Entering his fifth year as head coach and general manager in Sherwood Park, Fragle has 16 years of coaching and instructional experience.  He finished his CJHL playing career with the Crusaders, serving as captain in 2000-01.

Luke Pierce, 31, will make his first appearance with Canada West at the 2014 World Junior A Challenge. The head coach of Team West at the 2013 CJHL Prospects Games, Pierce has been the head coach and general manager of the Centennials for the past five seasons, guiding Merritt to the playoffs every year, and winning BCHL Interior Division Coach of the Year honours in 2012-13.

Jason Williamson, 33, will be an assistant coach with Canada West at the World Junior A Challenge for the first time. He has been the head coach and general manager in Vernon for the past four years, and was an assistant coach for three years prior to that. Williamson has made four trips to the RBC Cup, Canada’s National Junior A Championship, winning the national title with the Vipers in 2009 and 2010, and finishing as runner-up in 2011. He played three seasons in Vernon (1999-2002), making two trips to the BCHL final.

Canada West has appeared in six of the eight gold medal games at the World Junior A Challenge, winning gold in 2006 (Yorkton/Humboldt, Sask.), 2007 (Trail/Nelson, B.C.), and 2012 (Langley, B.C.). It also won silver in 2008 (Camrose, Alta.), 2009 (Summerside, P.E.I.), and 2012 (Yarmouth, N.S.), and won bronze in 2013 (Yarmouth, N.S.).  It finished fourth in 2010 (Penticton, B.C.).
that Marty Abrams, head coach and general manager of the Ontario Junior Hockey League's Wellington Dukes, will be the head coach of Canada East for the 2014 World Junior A Challenge, scheduled for Dec. 14-20 in Kindersley, Sask.

Abrams will be joined by assistant coaches Mark Grady (head coach, Smith Falls Bears, Central Canada Hockey League), Marc Lafleur (head coach, Kirkland Lake Gold Miners, Northern Ontario Junior Hockey League) and Troy Ryan (head coach and general manager, Campbellton Tigers, Maritime Hockey League).

“I am honoured to be named head coach of Canada East for this year’s World Junior A Challenge,” said Abrams. “I look forward to working with Mark, Marc and Troy in achieving our goal of winning Canada East’s first gold medal. I would also like to thank the CJHL for the opportunity to be a part of this world-class event.”

On the Canada East side, Marty Abrams, 49, will make his fourth appearance with Canada East at the World Junior A Challenge, having served as an assistant coach in 2006, and general manager in 2007, 2008 and 2009. Abrams won silver in 2006 and 2007, and bronze in 2008. He has been the head coach and general manager in Wellington for the past 13 seasons, guiding the Dukes to the OJHL championship and appearances at the RBC Cup, Canada’s National Junior A Championship, in 2003 and 2011. Abrams has more than 500 wins as a head coach and was named OJHL East Division Coach of the Year in 1999-2000 and 2001-02, and OJHL Central Division Coach of the Year in 2008-09.

Mark Grady, 51, will serve on the Canada East staff for a third time, having served as an assistant coach in 2007 and head coach in 2008, winning silver and bronze medals. Grady is entering his fourth season with Smith Falls, having guided the team to the CCHL final in 2014. Prior to coaching the Bears, Grady coached in the OHL with the Ottawa 67’s and in the CJHL with the Cumberland Grads and Nepean Raiders.

Marc Lafleur, 39, will make his second consecutive appearance with Canada East at the World Junior A Challenge, having served as an assistant coach in 2013. Named NOJHL Coach of the Year in his first season in Kirkland Lake in 2012-13, he led the Gold Miners to the NOJHL championship and a berth in the Dudley Hewitt Cup last year. Lafleur has worked as an assistant coach with the QMJHL's Rouyn-Noranda Huskies and in the NCAA with Bemidji State University. As a player, Lafleur spent two seasons with the USHL's Thunder Bay Flyers, reaching the 1995 Centennial Cup.

Troy Ryan, 42, will be an assistant coach with Canada East for the fifth time, serving in the role from 2006-09, and as general manager in 2010. Ryan is entering his second season as head coach in Campbellton, having spent the prior two seasons as head coach of St. Thomas University. He has more than a decade of coaching experience in the MHL and university hockey, winning MHL Coach of the Year and Hockey Nova Scotia Coach of the Year in 2007-08, and leading the Pictou County Crushers to an appearance at the RBC Cup in 2008.

Monday, August 25, 2014

Vipers Name Goodard New Assistant Coach:

This is posted on the Kiss FM website:

Vipers Add Former NHL'er To Staff

Written by Peter McIntyre Monday, 25 August 2014

Vernon Vipers start their BCHL Training camp Friday morning at Kal Tire Place, with coach and GM Jason Williamson saying it will be a new look team.

"It's a totally fresh team, players that I have 100% recruited them all. It's a fresh staff. I'm excited about working with Kevin Kraus (assistant coach), and officially we've actually brought Eric Godard on too (as an assistant coach), so I'm excited about that," says Williamson.

The 34 year old Godard is a Vernon native who played 335 games in the NHL with the New York Islanders, Calgary Flames and the Pittsburgh Penguins.

He was known as an enforcer with 833 career penalty minutes.

"He'll be a guy that works mainly with the forwards, but just an assistant to help with whatever we need, really," says Williamson.

Both Kraus and Godard were with the Salmon Arm Silverbacks last season.

The Vipers will host the Penticton Vees in their pre-season opener Saturday at 5 pm a Kal Tire Place.

Chomutov Sign Former Vipers Forward McGregor:

The Pirati Chomutov have signed former Vernon
Vipers forward Bryan McGregor.  Piráti Chomutov is a Czech ice hockey team from Chomutov, Czech Republic.  The team was established in 1945 play in the Czech Extraliga, the top-level league in the Czech Republic. 

McGregor played with three teams last season (Beibarys Atyrau, Rungsted & Székesfehérvár).  Beibarys Atyrau also known as Beibarys Atyrau, is a professional ice hockey team based in Atyrau, Kazakhstan.  Rungsted is a Danish professional ice hockey team that used to play in the top Danish ice hockey league AL-Bank Ligaen.  Székesfehérvár is a Hungarian ice hockey team that plays in the Austrian Erste Bank Hockey League.   McGregor played part of one season in Vernon (2002-2003) after coming over in a trade with the Cowichan Valley Capitals for forward Josh Ciocco. In 32 games with the Vipers McGregor collected (21-goals-26-assists-47-points).

Bryan McGregor's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=13415

This is posted on the pirati chomutov website:

23.6.2014, press release

(c h o m u t of in-chomutovská roster grows by another name overseas. While in the case defender Maria scalza and attacker Greg Moore It is a relatively unknown players in Bohemia, offensive lineman Bryan mcgregora fans can remember from an engagement with the Třinec. Extravagant-spent in small Club two seasons and in the spring 2011 helped ocelářům magnificent title to a profit. Now, Bryan McGregor agreed to annual co-operation with pirates and after two years it will be getting on the bus again under the leadership Česká nettles.

Soon thirty-year native of Niagara Falls in Ontario Canadian province in 2000 was drafted kitchenerem, however priority got American university NCAA competition, in which Bryan McGregor defended a whole University minnesota-duluth colors.

After four years in the echl headed into the right wing, where people in the by and Idaho where it bounced to several fights at the farm Ottawa in Binghamton. In summer 2009, the Bryan McGregor decided to continue his or her European career and headed to Finland.

In the north Europe played second highest vaasan sport competition for the team, which is based in the west country on the shore Gulf of Bothnia. Two mcgregorovi is unprecedented in the season 2009/2010 I have been doing, in the account he wrote more than point to the game. In 43 and shot 25 goals and added 32 assistance activity. Moreover, he was with four precise interventions best shooter competition in weakening.

These statistics adopt Třinecké steel, who Canadian forvarda engaged for two years and in the first one year after his arrival at the screen to arrive was big league success. The Silesian team led by břetislavem nettles, and Paul mark strolled to the but the title.

Bryan McGregor has contributed to the historical triumph in the domestic competition highest nine trefami asistencemi and six in 50 games essential parts, 15 battles during playoffs while didn't score, but its focus was taking soupeřovým key players forces.

In the following year he jumped up to 34 native Canadian meeting, in which he scored five times and added One assistance. In the summer 2012 Bryan McGregor Třinec left and then headed for the Austrian international competition Ebel, where defended colors Innsbruck. Any one of our southern neighbors to return in the previous year, during which he tried Kazakhstan and the Danish top competition. The second engagement in the Ebel graduated from new acquisitions in the Hungarian fehérváru pirates.

Sunday, August 24, 2014

Former Vipers Goalie Hammond Attracting Attention With Mask Design:

This is posted on the BCHL website:

Former Vipers goalie Hammond attracting attention with mask design

Thursday, August 21, 2014 - Submitted by BCHL Media

Andrew Hammond caught the eye of the Ottawa Senators for his work in net at Bowling Green State University and they signed him to a pro contract in 2013.

Nowadays, he has the attention of the hockey world for some creative work he had done on his goalie mask for the coming season.

Hammond contracted artist and goalie mask painter Jason Bartziokas to sketch up a unique design that incorporates lightfingered and hungry former McDonald's character Hamburglar and MAD Magazine icon Alfred E. Neuman. The cartoon is on the right side of the mask and features the character in goalie gear about to snare a flying puck.

The other side depicts the Ottawa Senators logo and the word 'Hammy' is painted on the chin piece. It is drawing a lot of feedback via Bartziokas' Instagram account

Hockey blogger Greg Wyshynski, of Puck Daddy fame, picked up on the mask design and featured it in a recent post: Click on the link below,

https://ca.sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nhl-puck-daddy/strangest-goalie-mask-pop-culture-mash-up-of-2014--mcdonald-s-meets-mad-145812769.html

Goalie masks have become something of a fashion statement in hockey and something goalies are free to express themselves with, unlike the forwards and defencemen. Wyshynski obviously likes Hammond and Bartziokas' collaboration.

Hammond played for West Kelowna, Surrey and Vernon in the BCHL but made his mark with the latter. He went 27-12-1 his final season, backstopping the Vipers to their first of back-to-back RBC Cup national championships.

The White Rock, B.C. native made his NHL debut last season, playing 35 flawless minutes of relief making 11 saves on Feb. 27 against the Detroit Red Wings.

Saturday, August 23, 2014

Vernon Vipers 2014 Training Camp Schedule:

This is posted on the Vipers website:

Vernon Vipers 2014 Training Camp Schedule

Friday, August 22, 2014 - Submitted by Vipers Staff

Vernon Vipers 2014 Training Camp Schedule

FRIDAY AUGUST 29TH.  

8AM CHECK IN/ORIENTATION
9-12 PRACTICE
3-5PM GAME 1
5-7PM GAME 2

SATURDAY AUGUST 30TH 

900-930 AM EXHIBITION PLAYERS SKATE
945-12 ALL OTHERS ON ICE

5 PM EXHIBITION GAME VS PENTICTON

SUNDAY AUGUST 31ST    9-945 AM TEAM 1 SKATE

10-1045 AM TEAM 2 SKATE
11-1145 AM TEAM 3 SKATE
12-1245 AM TEAM 4 SKATE
5PM GAME 1
7 PM GAME 2

PLAYER RELEASES TO FOLLOW

MONDAY SEPTEMBER 1ST  11-2 PM BLUE VS WHITE ALL STAR GAME
PLAYER MEETINGS TO FOLLOW GAME

TEAM BUILDER

Komets Add Former Viper Marino To Teams Season-Ending Roster:

On June 16th 2014 the East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) announced the Season-Ending Rosters as submitted by each of its member teams. The ECHL Fort Wayne Komets have nineteen players listed on their season-ending roster list, one is former Vernon Vipers forward Brandon Marino.

Marino has played the past two seasons with the Komets after signing with Fort Wayne on July, 17th 2012. In 72 games last season Marino collected (30-goals-58-assists-88-points). Marino finished as the ECHL's regular season leading scorer with 88 points & was named to the East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) 2013-14 All-ECHL First Team. At the Komets year end banquet Marino was named the teams Mr. Hustle award & team MVP.

Before joining the Komets Marino spent the previous three seasons with the Central Hockey League (CHL) Quad City Mallards. Marino was named the 2011-12 Central Hockey League Most Valuable Player, as well as took home MVP at the 2012 CHL all-star game. Marino had a breakout season 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.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=39227

This is posted on the Komets website:

Komets announce Season Ending Roster

06/16/2014

Fort Wayne, IN ---  The Komets announced Monday their 2013-14 Season Ending Roster as submitted to the ECHL.

2013-14 Fort Wayne Season Ending Roster:

JOHN MUSE
BEN MEISNER
SIMON DANIS-PEPIN
MATHEW MAIONE
JOE HARTMAN
JACE COYLE
WILLIAM LACASSE
MATT CARTER
SCOTT FLEMING
BRANDON MARINO
MIKE EMBACH
SY NUTKEVITCH
AARON CLARKE
CHRISTIAN OUELLET
CHRIS AUGER
DREW DANIELS
KALEIGH SCHROCK
DAVID RUTHERFORD
DEAN OUELLET

Season-Ending Rosters may include up to 20 players. Season-Ending Rosters cannot include any players who did not sign an ECHL contract in 2013-14.  Each team is entitled to reserve rights to a maximum of eight players from the list of 20 by extending a qualifying offer no later than July 1. Of the eight qualified players, no more than four can be veterans (260 regular season professional hockey games played as of the start of the 2013-14 season). Players on open qualifying offers cannot be traded. Teams are not required to extend a qualifying offer to players who sign a contract prior to July 1.

The qualifying offer must remain open for acceptance until Aug. 1 at which time the qualifying offer becomes null and void and the team may sign the qualified player to any salary or may elect to take no further action. Teams that extend a valid qualifying offer to a non-veteran player shall retain the rights to that qualified player for one playing season.

A team that extends a valid qualifying offer to a veteran player, or to a goaltender who has played more than 180 regular-season games, will retain the rights to that player until Aug. 1. After Aug. 1, if the veteran player or goaltender is not signed to a contract by the team, the veteran or goaltender shall be deemed a restricted free agent and shall be entitled to seek and secure offers of employment from other ECHL teams. Restricted free agents may not be traded. When a restricted free agent receives a contract offer from a team other than the team with the player’s rights and the restricted free agent wishes to accept the contract offer, the restricted free agent and the offering member must, within 24 hours, notify the ECHL, the team with the player’s rights and the Professional Hockey Players’ Association. The member with the player’s rights shall have seven days after the date it is notified to exercise its right to match the contract offer.

If a restricted free agent is not signed to either an offer sheet or a contract by an ECHL team by Aug. 31, the player shall be deemed an unrestricted free agent.

Friday, August 22, 2014

Silverbacks Trade Former Viper Roberts To West Kelowna:

The Salmon Arm Silverbacks traded former Vernon Vipers
forward Michael Roberts to the Salmon Arm Silverbacks.

Roberts played parts of two seasons in Vernon (2011-2013) before being traded to Surrey.  In 63 games with the Vipers Roberts collected (4-goals-7-assists-11-points).  Roberts was traded to the Eagles as part of the Adam Tambellini trade that took place on January, 10th 2013.  The Vipers sent Tambellini & future considerations (Michael Roberts) to the the Surrey Eagles for Mason Blacklock & future considerations (Demico Hannoun & Jordan Klimek). The Eagles sent Roberts to Trail on November, 15th 2013 before the Smoke Eaters traded Roberts to Salmon Arm on November, 29th 2013.

Michael Roberts Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=125331

This is posted on the Silverbacks website:

‘BACKS ACQUIRE LOCAL PRODUCT SHANE DANYLUK

Thursday, August 21, 2014 - Submitted by Melanie Hart, Director of Communications

‘BACKS ACQUIRE LOCAL PRODUCT SHANE DANYLUK

Salmon Arm, BC - The Salmon Arm Silverbacks Junior ‘A’ Hockey Club has made a significant acquisition today by acquiring the Hockey Canada playing rights for Salmon Arm local Shane Danyluk ’94. Danyluk is being acquired from the West Kelowna Warriors for Michael Roberts and future considerations.

“Shane has just completed 4 years at the WHL with the Prince Albert Raiders and amassed 25 goals and 52 assists for a total of 77 pts in 248 games. Shane will be a dynamic forward for the ‘Backs this season,” states GM Troy Mick. "Shane wanted to play his last year of Junior eligibility in his hometown in front of family and friends.  We are absolutely thrilled that he will be wearing a ‘Backs jersey this year.  When you acquire a player of Shane’s caliber, you have to give up a good player. We wish Michael Roberts the best of luck this coming season."

The community of Salmon Arm will get a chance to welcome Shane tonight at our 3rd Annual Silverbacks’ Season Kickoff at City Hall from 5-7 p.m. As a reminder, this event begins at 5 with a BBQ by donation, supplied by Askew’s Foods, and will include appearances from Kong, players, and dunk tank guests Mayor Nancy Cooper, President/GM Troy Mick, and Head Coach Brandon West. The proceeds from the ‘donate and dunk’ will go to the Silverbacks’ Scholarship Fund, a program we are super proud of.

For more information, contact Troy Mick, President/GM at the Silverbacks Hockey Operations office at 250-832-3856 x. 308.

This is posted on the Warriors website:

Warriors Add Roberts

Thursday, August 21, 2014 - Submitted by Kyle Anderson

The West Kelowna Warriors have acquired Michael Roberts (95) from the Salmon Arm Silverbacks in exchange for the CJHL playing rights of Shane Danyluk (94) and future considerations.

Roberts, a native of Vernon, BC has played in 2 BCHL seasons, donning the uniform of the Vernon Vipers, Surrey Eagles, Trail Smoke Eaters, and lastly the Silverbacks.

In 117 BCHL Games, he’s scored 12 goals and added 21 assists for 33 points. Roberts also put up 49 points in 44 games, including 27 goals for the Revelstoke Grizzlies of the KIJHL in 2011/2012.

“In acquiring Michael we get a veteran player than can play in all situations,” said Head Coach Rylan Ferster, “I have known Michael for a number of years and know exactly the type of person we are bringing in.”

For further comment, contact Rylan Ferster at 250-859-3386.

The Warriors open up Main Camp on Friday August 29th at Royal Lepage Place. The 1st Exhibition game is scheduled for Sunday August 31st @ 7 PM, when West Kelowna hosts Merritt at RLP.

Thursday, August 21, 2014

Former Vernon Viper Nikiforuk Re-Joins Lions:

Former Vernon Vipers forward Alex
Nikiforuk will be re-joining the National League B GC Küsnacht Lions.  The Lions are a Swiss professional ice hockey team.

Nikiforuk played one season in Denmark (2012-13) with Esbjerg Energy before signing with the Lions for the 2013-14 season.  Nikiforuk finished the season with the Lions before signing with the National League B SC Langenthal in February for the remainder of the season.   SC Langenthal is a Swiss ice hockey team that plays in the National League B in the Switzerland Professional ice hockey League. 

Nikiforuk played one season as an "AP" with the Vipers (1999-2000) before being traded the following season to the Burnaby Bulldogs. In just 6 games with the Vipers Nikiforuk collected (0-goals-2-assists-2-points).

Alex Nikiforuk's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=11415

This is posted on the Lions website:

Soon start to the summer training

15/04/2014

The cadre of the GCK Lions

Both foreigners Alexandre Tremblay and Alex Nikiforuk are present in the new season furthermore. Some new promising players moved up, others play the next year in the NLA or had to leave the team because they have not packed her chances.

Torhüter:

Boltshauser Luca (1993), Guntern Daniel (1995), Schlegel Niklas (1994).

Verteidiger:

Blatter Patrick (1993), Büsser Xeno (1995), Karrer Roger (1997), Molina Atanasio (1995), Peter Bryan (1995), Schmuckli Florian (1993), Zangger Marc (1991).

Forward:

Brandi Nicola (1994), Biem Dominik (1997), Diem Ramón (1994), Faic Roman (1994), Hoffmann Luka (1993), painting gin Denis (1997), Nägeli Pascal (1994), Neher Lars (1992), Neuenschwander Jan (1993), Nikiforuk Alex (1983, Ka), Raffainer Raeto (1982), Alexandre Tremblay (1979, Ka).

Staff:

Alatalo Matti (Headcoach), Novak Richi (assistant), Peter Markus (goalkeeper's coach), Bolliger Thomas (goalkeeper's coach Assistent), innkeeper Simon (sports boss), Dr. Waespe Bruno (team doctor), Takken Coen (Physio/masseur), May wood Hajo (statistics), Jenni Werner (video), Rathgeb Hans Peter (media responsible person).

Preparatory plays

Saturday, 16.8.16.30 h: Arosa – GCK Lions
Fr, 22.8.19.30 h: Langenthal – GCK Lions
Tu, 26.8., 20h: Bregenzerwald – GCK Lions
Fr, 29.8., 20.15h: Thurgau – GCK Lions
Tu, 2.9., 20h: Basel Sharks – GCK Lions
Fr, 5.9., 20h: GCK Lions – Red Ice (KEK)

Team cup NLA (KEK)

Th, 28.8., 20h: Bern – Davos
Fr, 29.8., 20h: ZSC Lions – Kloten Flyers
Saturday, 30.8., 17h / 20.15h: Finals

Wednesday, August 20, 2014

Winterhawks Add Former Viper D-Man Chanter To Teams Prospects List:

Alan Caldwell over at small thoughts at large (WHL Blog) posted every WHL team's 2014-15 prospects list. This only includes players who were not WHL regulars last year. If a kid played more than 20-30 games or so in the WHL last year, he's not on these lists.

The WHL Portland Winterhawks have former Vernon Vipers defenceman Dylan Chanter as one of fifty seven players listed on their 2014-15 prospects list.

Chanter played just 19 games with the Vipers last year going pointless after coming over in a trade with the Merritt Centennials.  The Vipers sent Jason Bird and future considerations to Merritt on Januray 3rd 2014 for the playing rights to Chanter.  Chanter has committed to the University of New Hampshire for this coming season.

Dylan Chatner's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=123669

Tuesday, August 19, 2014

Former Viper Calvin Commits To Trail Smoke Eaters:

Former Vernon Vipers forward Dallas Calvin has committed to
the Trail Smoke Eaters for this season.  No official press release by the Smokies but it was tweeted on Calvin's twitter account as well as Calvin's name & profile is on the Smoke Eaters roster on the BCHL website.

Calvin was an "AP" with the Vipers during the 2012-13 season playing in one game before committing to the Vipers last season.  Calvin left the Vipers on October 5th 2013 for personal reasons later re-joined the Vipers after Christmas and played with the Vipers as an "AP" for the remainder of the season and playoffs.  In 11 games with Vernon last season Calvin collected (2-goals-6-assists-8-points).

Dallas Calvin's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=94972

Former Viper Forward Beech Wont Be Back With Tigers:

The Deutsche Eishockey Liga (DEL) Straubing Tigers will not offer former Vernon Vipers forward Kris Beech a contract for this coming season.

Beech started the 2013-14 season with the Tigers before joining the Erste Bank Hockey League (EBHL) Vienna Capitals in February. The Capitals are from Vienna, Austria. In 36 games last season with the Tigers Beech recorded (8-goals-16-assists-24-points) has played with seven teams in the last six years.

Beech played last season with AIK Stalkholm & HC Pardubice. Beech was in his first season with HC Pardubice a professional hockey team in Czech Extraliga before leaving the team in November (2012) before signing with AIK Stalkholm. In 21 games with HC Pardubice Beech recorded (2-goals-6-assists-8-points). Beech played just 23 games with AIK Stalkholm a team based in Stockholm, Sweden. The team decided not to re-sign Beech who recorded (3-goals-2-assists-5-points) in 23 games.

Beech played parts of just one season in Vernon during the 1996-1997 season with the Vipers before leaving the team during the season for the WHL Calgary Hitmen. Beech was drafted by the Washington Capitals In Round 1 #7 overall at the 1999 NHL Entry Draft. Beech played with five different NHL clubs (Washington, Pittsburgh, Nashville, Columbus & Vancouver).

Kristopher Beech's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=8429

This is posted on the Tigers website:

Monday, 07th April, 2014

Everything fixed: Bernie Englbrecht also remains in the coming season Co coach of the tiger

Now Straubing of tiger have fixed with the coach's positions everything: also in the coming season the former national goalkeeper Bernie Englbrecht will act as a Co. coach and goalkeeper's coach. The 56-year-old goes with it to his fifth playing time with the tiger. Manager Jason Dunham for the personnel decision:

„ We are glad that we can further build on Bernie than Co coach and Goalie coach. He does an excellent work and will be able to help with his experience as a long-standing national goalkeeper just the young people like now Dustin Strahlmeier. In addition he provides for good mood in the cabin. The contract with him was extended for a year. “ Bernie Englbrecht himself meant about it: „ I will just do my job like the years before. I am not only a goalkeeper's coach, but look after everything and also get on as a connection between team and coach. Besides, I will look shortly U18-WM in Finland. Young players become more and more important for us, in addition, play still with properly emotions, it is great fun to watch those. “

No contracts more for Jordan Hendry, Kris Beech and Sean Sullivan

After goalkeeper Sebastian Staudt there are other departures to register. Thus the defenders will receive for the coming season Jordan Hendry and Sean Sullivan as well as forward Kris Beech no more contracts. Straubing of tiger thank the players for her work at the club and wish you for her other sporty future all the best.

Blaine Down is the player of the year

The tiger's fans have decided with big majority: The player of 2013/14 is Top-Scorer Blaine Down. 50 percent of the voices were cancelled to the Canadian who becomes with it a successor to Jason Bacashihua who comes this time in second place with 22.86 percent. Third became René Röthke with 7.86 percent.
Milena Häusler from Pfelling has won the 1-st price, one fan tricot hand-signed by Blaine Down of the season 2014/15 with the No. 79, the 2-nd price, a standing place complimentary ticket for a tiger's home match of the season 2014/15, goes to Theresa Hilmer from wind mountain and the 3-rd price, one tiger hand-signed by Blaine Down Cap receives Sepp keeper of the tax granary from curve. It is planned to hand the prices (or vouchers) by the team image in the Gäubodenvolksfest to the winners.