Vernon Vipers 2012-13 Schedule:

Vernon Vipers 2012-13 Exibition Schedule:

August

Saturday, August.25th vs Wenatchee
Monday, August.27th vs West Kelowna
Tuesday, August.28th @ West Kelowna
Friday, August.31st @ Salmon Arm

September

Saturday, September.1st vs Salmon Arm

Vernon Vipers 2012-13 Regular Season Schedule:

September

Saturday, September 8th Penticton @ Vernon (In Chilliwack)
Sunday, September 9th Powell River @ Vernon (In Chilliwack)
Friday, September 14th Vernon @ Salmon Arm
Saturday, September 15th Salmon Arm @ Vernon
Saturday, September 22nd Trail @ Vernon
Friday, September 28th Prince George @ Vernon
Saturday, September 29th Vernon @ Trail

October

Friday, October 5th Vernon @ Penticton
Saturday, October 6th West Kelowna @ Vernon
Friday, October 12th Vernon @ Salmon Arm
Saturday, October 13th Vernon @ Chilliwack
Wednesday, October 17th Merritt @ Vernon
Friday, October 19th Vernon @ Surrey
Saturday, October 20th Vernon @ Langley
Friday, October 26th Salmon Arm @ Vernon
Saturday, October 27th Chilliwack @ Vernon

November

Friday, November 2nd Nanaimo @ Vernon
Saturday, November 3rd Vernon @ Trail
Friday, November 9th Trail @ Vernon
Saturday, November 10th Surrey @ Vernon
Friday, November 16th Vernon @ Powell River
Saturday, November 17th Vernon @ Alberni Valley
Sunday, November 18th Vernon @ Coquitlam
Friday, November 23rd Vernon @ Penticton
Saturday, November 24th Penticton @ Vernon
Friday, November 30th Vernon @ West Kelowna

December

Saturday, December 1st West Kelowna @ Vernon
Thursday, December 6th Trail @ Vernon
Friday, December 7th Vernon @ West Kelowna
Saturday, December 8th Alberni Valley @ Vernon
Friday, December 14th Penticton @ Vernon
Saturday, December 15th Vernon @ Trail
Friday, December 21st Merritt @ Vernon
Saturday, December 22nd Vernon @ Merritt

January

Friday, January 4th Vernon @ Salmon Arm
Saturday, January 5th West Kelowna @ Vernon
Wednesday, January 9th Trail @ Vernon
Saturday, January 12th Powell River @ Vernon
Friday, January 18th Vernon @ Nanaimo
Saturday, January 19th Vernon @ Cowichan Valley
Sunday, January 20th Vernon @ Victoria
Friday, January 25th Vernon @ Penticton

February

Friday, February 1st Coquitlam @ Vernon
Saturday, February 2nd Salmon Arm @ Vernon
Tuesday, February 5th Vernon @ Merritt
Saturday, Feburary 9th West Kelowna @ Vernon
Sunday, February 10th Victoria @ Vernon
Friday, February 15th Vernon @ Merritt
Saturday, February 16th Cowichan Valley @ Vernon
Friday, February 22nd Vernon @ Salmon Arm
Saturday, February 23rd Langley @ Vernon
Tuesday, February 26th Vernon @ West Kelowna

March

Friday, March 1st Vernon @ Prince George
Wednesday, March 6th Vernon @ Merritt
Friday, March 8th Penticton @ Vernon
Saturday, March 9th Merritt @ Vernon

Viper Duo Firms Up College Teams:

This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:

Viper duo firms up college teams

Published: July 18, 2012

A pair of Vipers have committed to attend post-secondary institutions for the 2012-2013 hockey season.

Net detective Kirby Halcrow and forward Ben Gamache, both 21, aged out with the Vipers.

Gamache, who pocketed eight goals and 23 points in 27 games with Vernon after being obtained in a trade with the AJHL Okotoks Oilers, will play for Hobart College, a highly touted NCAA Division III program located in upstate New York.

Gamache, who hails from Longlac, Ont., will become Statesman teammates with BCHL grad Lino Chimienti (goalie, Merritt Centennials).

Halcrow, who was 24-26-1 with a 3.01 GAA last year in Vernon, will play for Portage College Voyageurs in Lac La Biche, Alta. The Voyageurs are in the ACAC.

Halcrow, a Grand Prairie product, will look to be the Portage starting goaltender in the upcoming season.

Meanwhile, the Vipers’ inaugural charity golf tournament for KidSport goes  Sunday, Aug. 26 at The Golf Club at The Rise, who are running the tourney alongside the Vipers.

Entry fee is $150 which includes golf, power cart, dinner tee gift and prizes. There will be a 1 p.m. shotgun start for the 18-hole scramble.

Call Lee Ranger at 250-545-7425, or e-mail lee.ranger@therise.ca, or Vipers’ marketing manager Paula Coulter at 250-542-6022 ext. 200, or marketing@vipers.bc.ca.

Vipers Open Regular Season Against Defending National Champs:

The BCHL released its 2012-13 regular season schedule last week.

The Vernon Vipers who missed the BCHL playoffs last season will open up the 51st BCHL regular season against the defending National Champion Penticton Vees Saturday, September.8th in Chilliwack at the leagues first BCHL Showcase.  The Vipers will open the regular season with there first two games at the Showcase (Vs Penticton & Powell River) before returning home for a home and home series with the Salmon Arm Silverbacks September 14th & 15th as former Vernon Laker and Viper Troy Mick will make his Silverbacks debut behind the bench facing off against his former club as the new head Coach-GM-Part Owner of the Backs.

-The Vipers will start the regular season with there first three games on the road before returning home for a three game home stand.

-The Vipers longest home stand of the season is a three game home stand vs (Salmon Arm, Trail & Prince George) In September & then another three game home stand in January vs (West Kelowna, Trail & Powell River).

-The Vipers longest road trip of the season is a four game road trip in November vs (Powell River, Alberni Valley, Coquitlam & Penticton) and then play another four game road trip in January vs (Nanaimo, Cowichan Valley, Victoria & Penticton).

-The Vipers play 2 Tuesday night games  (2 Away)

-The Vipers play 3 Wednesday night games  (2 Home-1 Away)

-The Vipers play 1 Thursday night game (1 Home)

-The Vipers play 22 Friday night games  (8 Home-14 Away)

-The Vipers play 24 Saturday night games  (14 Home-9 Away)

-The Vipers play 4 Sunday afternoon games  (1 Home-3 Away)

-The Surrey Eagles will make their first visit to the Wesbild Centre in two years on Saturday, November.10th

-The Powell River Kings will make their first visit to the Wesbild Centre in two years on Saturday, January.12th

-The Cowichan Valley Capitals will make their first visit to the Wesbild Centre in two years on Saturday, February.16th

-The Langley Rivermen will make their first visit in two years to the Wesbild Centre on Saturday, February.23rd

Halcrow & Gamache Commit To Post Secondary Schools:

This is posted on the Vipers website:

July,16th 2012

Press Release

For Immediate release:

July 16th, 2012

The Vernon Vipers hockey club is pleased to announce that Kirby Halcrow and Ben Gamache have committed to attend post secondary institutions for the 2012-2013 season.

Ben Gamache has committed to play at Hobart College and will continue his hockey career there. Hobart College is a highly touted NCAA Division III program located in upstate New York. Gamache will become teammates with BCHL grad Lino Chimienti.

Kirby Halcrow has committed to attended Portage College and will also continue his playing career there. Portage College is located in Alberta and plays in the ACAC. Halcrow will look to be their starting goaltender in the upcoming season.

The Vipers would like to congratulate both players on this achievement and wish them continued success.

Former Vipers Goaltender Andrew Hammond Attends Blackhawks Development Camp:

Former Vernon Vipers goaltender Andrew Hammond attended the Chicago Blackhawks development camp last week.  Hammond who finished his third season with Bowling Green University played parts of two years in Vernon (2007-2009) after coming over in a trade with the Surrey Eagles during the 2007-08 season. In 52 regular season games with the Vipers Hammond posted a (33-15-1) record recording 6 shutouts.

Andrew Hammond's Player Profile:

http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=113948

This is in the BCHL Newsletter:

Former Snakes stopper earns Hawks invite after stellar junior campaign

After three years at Bowling Green State University, Falcons netminder and Vernon Vipers alum Andrew Hammond finds himself on a team finally headed in the right direction.

But the struggle it took to get the Falcons program back on track has been a good showcase for the Surrey native and this week, he's at the Chicago Blackhawks development camp.

Hammond missed a chance to go to a Washington Capitals camp last summer after he sustained a shoulder injury. This year, he's one of three BCHL alums at Hawks camp along with former Powell River Kings Mat Bodie and Dan Carr.

"I talked to my advisor after the season and we agreed Chicago was a good place to come to," says the 24-year-old. "It's been great and I've had a great time here."

After fitness testing at the United Centre, the on-ice action has taken place at the Hawks practice facility at Johnny's IceHouse. Hammond has tried to make the most of the opportunity.

"I think I've done well; we've had two scrimmages so far and I've felt like I've played really well," says the 6-foot-1, 196-pound goaltender, adding Blackhawks standouts Dave Bolland and Patrick Kane have been spotted at the rink. "Today (Thursday) I played a period and we wound up winning."

On the hockey side of things, Hammond has taken everything in stride. The off-ice health checks have been extensive though.

"They're really making sure the players are healthy," says Hammond. "There's blood tests, EKG readings - it's more than I expected but it's been good."

Hammond got the invite to Chicago's camp after claiming each of the Falcons 14 wins last season. He also made the most saves in the Central Collegiate Hockey Association with 1,233 which was 61 more than his next closest competitor, Shawn Hunwick of Michigan.

"We've got a new coach (Chris Bergeron) who came on in my second year and there's a lot more money directed to the program now which is helping," says the sports management/business major. "It's become a real special place to me; we haven't lost a lot of players and we've got some good freshmen coming in. In the (Bowling Green) glory years of the 1980s they won a national championship and we're starting to build back towards that."

Friars Name Former Vernon Viper Kyle Murphy Captain:

The Providence Friars mens college hockey team has named former Vernon Vipers forward Kyle Murphy team captain for this coming season (2012-13).  Murphy played one season in Vernon (2010-11) In 58 games with the Vipers Murphy collected (18-24-42) was also named the Vipers Unsung Hero Award winner and Academic Excellence Award winner.

Kyle Murphy's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=43913

This is posted on the Friars website:

Men's Hockey Announces Team Captains

Kyle Murphy, Tim Schaller and Myles Harvey will serve as captains for the 2012-13 season.

June 14, 2012

PROVIDENCE, R.I. -

Providence College men’s hockey Head Coach Nate Leaman announced today that seniors Kyle Murphy (Fairhaven, N.J.), Tim Schaller (Merrimack, N.H.) and Myles Harvey (Orlando, Fla.) will serve as team captains for the 2012-13 season.

Murphy sat out the 2011-12 season after transferring from Notre Dame. During his freshman year at Notre Dame (2009-10), Murphy played in 17 games and then spent the 2010-11 season with the Vernon Vipers of the British Columbia Hockey League. While with the Vipers, he recorded 18 goals and 24 assists for 42 points in 58 regular season games as he earned Vernon’s Team Unsung Hero Award and Academic Excellence Award.

Schaller, who totaled seven goals in his first two seasons (67 games) at Providence, finished with a team-high 14 goals in 26 games as he battled through injuries during the 2011-12 season. He ranked third on the team with a career-high 21 points. In addition, he was named one of 21 semifinalists for the 60th Walter Brown Award, presented annually to the best American-born college hockey player in New England.

Harvey played in all 38 games last season and totaled career highs in goals (7), assists (10) and points (17). He finished second on the team with five power-play goals and led all PC defensemen in scoring. Harvey also was named Hockey East Player of the Week on October 17 after totaling three goals and leading the Friars to consecutive Hockey East wins to start the season.

The Friars, who are coming off the 2011-12 season in which they made the Hockey East semifinals for the first time since 2001, will begin the 2012-13 campaign on October 12 at home versus Sacred Heart.

Silverbacks Name Former Vipers Scout Rob Morphy Director Of Scouting:

This is posted on the Silverbacks website:

Morphy Named Director of Scouting
 
Tuesday, June 5, 2012 - Submitted by Scott Campbell

The Salmon Arm Silverbacks are pleased to introduce Rob Morphy as the Director of Scouting & Head Scout for the upcoming season.

Morphy currently resides in Kamloops and is certainly no outsider to the BCHL having spent several years as the former Head Scout for the Vernon Vipers where he and Mick won the 1999 Royal Bank Cup in Yorkton, SK. He also worked in the WHL with several organizations including the Chilliwack Bruins & Tri City Americans of the WHL.

“I’m very excited that Rob has agreed to join me in Salmon Arm as my Director of Scouting & Head Scout,” said Mick. “We have had a lot of successes together over the years and we look forward to doing it again with the Silverbacks.”

Morf as they call him has an incredible eye for talent and is very well connected in the hockey circles at all levels of play. His experience will be very valuable as we strive to win the RBC in Salmon Arm.

With today's announcement; Mick has now added two members to his hockey operations staff in one week with the recent hiring of new Assistant Coach Brandon West.

The SilverBacks would like to welcome Rob & Tammy and their 3 children to the organization and are looking forward to many successful years’ with a championship caliber team.

Former Vipers Defenceman Stachan To Nab Panthers Roster Spot:

Former Vernon Vipers defenceman Tyson Strachan is expected to claim one of the Florida Panthers final three roster spots for next season.  Strachan split this past season with the Florida Panthers and the AHL San Antonio Rampage.  In 50 games with the Rampage this past season Strachan collected (3-14-17) and in 15 NHL games with the Panthers Strachan collected (1-2-3).  Strachan played one season in Vernon (2002-03) collecting (6-22-28) in 56 regular season games with the Vipers.  Strachan was drafted by Carolina in the fifth round (137th overall) in the 2003 NHL Entry Draft. Strachan signed as a free agent with the Florida Panthers back in July 2011 after playing the last four seasons with the AHL Peoria Rivermen & the NHL St. Louis Blues. 

Tyson Strachan's Player Profile:

http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=72630

This is posted on the NBC Sports website:

Tyson Stachan to nab Cats' roster spot

June 30, 2012

Source: Fort Lauderdale Sun-Sentinel

The Panthers have approximately three roster spots up for grabs next season and defenseman Tyson Strachan is expected to claim one of them.

He did a good job filling in when the Panthers lost Jason Garrison to injury last season and looks poised to be a staple on the Cats' blueline. That said, he does not have significant offensive upside nor does he contribute much in the penalty minute category. As a result, Strachan can be ignored during most drafts.

Andrew Hammond Vernon Vipers Jersey For Sale On Ebay:

Ebay currently has a game worn (2007-08) Vernon Vipers Andrew Hammond third jersey for sale. With three days left, the jersey is starting at $189.99  Hammond played two years in Vernon (2007-2009) after coming over in a trade with the Surrey Eagles. Hammond finished his third season with Bowling Green University this past hockey season.

Andrew Hammond's Player Profile:

http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=113948

To bid on the jersey,


http://www.ebay.com/itm/2007-08-Vernon-Vipers-Game-Worn-Goalie-3rd-jersey-BCHL-/221067349378?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_2&hash=item3378a40d82

Wings Add Former Viper Forward Dean Strong To Teams Season Ending Roster:

On Friday, June 15th the ECHL announced the Season-Ending Rosters as submitted by each of its member teams. The Kalamazoo Wings have nineteen players listed on their season ending roster list one of is former Vernon Vipers forward Dean Strong.

Kalamazoo Wings Season Ending Roster:

Patrick Asselin, Darryl Bootland, Joe Charlebois, Dustin Cloutier, Trent Daavettila,Sam Ftorek, Riley Gill, Jon Harty, Dwight Helminen, Eric Kattelus, Kory Karlander,Michael Matczak, Wes O'Neill, Elgin Reid, Nick Sirota, Dean Strong, Brandon Svendsen, Justin Taylor & Joe Tolles

Strong finished his third season with the Wings was also loaned twice to the American Hockey League this past season. In November Strong was loaned to the AHL Chicago Wolves before returning to Kalamazoo and then was loaned to the AHL Lake Erie Monsters on December 15th 2011, collecting (4-10-11) with the Monsters before once again returning to Kalamazoo after the Monsters missed the playoffs. In 21 games with the K-Wings this past year Strong collected (11-12-23) before going to the AHL. Strong played one year in Vernon (2004-05) collecting (35-56-91) with the Vipers during the regular season.

Dean Strong's Player Profile:

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

This is posted on the Wings website:


K-WINGS ANNOUNCE SEASON-ENDING ROSTER

Kalamazoo Places 19 Players on Season-Ending Roster

June 15, 2012 - Mike Modugno

Director of Public Relations and Broadcaster

Kalamazoo, MI- The Kalamazoo Wings, proud member of the ECHL, three-time defending North Division Champions and National Hockey League affiliate to the Vancouver Canucks and New Jersey Devils and the American Hockey League’s Albany Devils, announce the club’s ECHL Season-Ending Roster.

Season-Ending Rosters may include up to 20 players. Season-Ending Rosters cannot include any players who did not sign an ECHL contract in 2011-12.

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 2012-13 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 will retain the rights to that veteran until August 1st. After August 1st, if the veteran player is not signed to a contract by the team, the veteran 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 August 31st, the player shall be deemed an unrestricted free agent.

This is posted on the ECHL website:

ECHL announces Season-Ending Rosters

June 15, 2012

PRINCETON, N.J. - The ECHL on Friday announced the Season-Ending Rosters as submitted by each of its member teams.

Season-Ending Rosters may include up to 20 players. Season-Ending Rosters cannot include any players who did not sign an ECHL contract in 2011-12.

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 2012-13 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 will retain the rights to that veteran until Aug. 1. After Aug. 1, if the veteran player is not signed to a contract by the team, the veteran 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.

BCHL Releases 2012-13 Regular Season Schedule:

BCHL releases 2012-13 regular season schedule
 
Wednesday, July 11, 2012 - Submitted by BCHL Media

The British Columbia Hockey League has released its schedule for the 2012-13 season.

After the BCHL Showcase at Prospera Centre in Chilliwack Sept. 7 to 9, the remainder of the regular season commences Sept. 14 with each team playing 27 home dates and 27 away.

This season’s schedule is a full interlock meaning each team will play in every other team’s rink at least once. As the league has gone back to three divisions which make up two conferences, the divisional schedules break down as follows:

MAINLAND DIVISION (5 teams)

Teams play each other eight times    32 games
Teams play Island clubs twice         10 games
Teams play Interior clubs twice       12 games
Total                                                 54 games

ISLAND DIVISION (5 teams)

Teams play each other eight times    32 games
Teams play Mainland clubs twice     10 games
Teams play Interior clubs twice        12 games
Total                                                  54 games

INTERIOR DIVISION (6 teams)

Teams play each other seven times,
* play one club six times                      34 games
Teams play Mainland clubs twice        10 games
Teams play Island clubs twice             10 games
Total                                                     54 games

With two games being played per team at the Showcase, there is a total of 56 regular season games for each team.

Hadley Listed On Giants Prospects List:

One of the WHL blogs (small thoughts at large) has posted every WHL team's 2012-13 prospects list. This only include 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 Vancouver Giants have Vernon Vipers forward, Aaron Hadley as one of fourty four players listed on their 2012-13 prospects list. Hadley who is a 2008 10th round bantam pick of the Giants, played his second season with the Vipers this past year. In 55 regular season games Hadley collected (17-23-40).  Hadley has committed to NCAA Western Michigan.

Aaron Hadley's Player Profile:

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/rosters_profile.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&teamID=339739&playerID=582741

Vipers Looking For Billets:

This is posted on the Vipers website:

Billets Needed
 
Tuesday, July 10, 2012 - Submitted by Vipers Staff

The Vernon  Vipers are in need of billet families for the upcoming season.  Please contact General Manager Jason Williamson at (250) 542-6022 or e-mail jason@vipers.bc.ca

 

Thunder Add Former Viper Defenceman Cam Brodie To Teams Season Ending Roster:

On Friday, June 15th the ECHL announced the Season-Ending Rosters as submitted by each of its member teams. The Stockton Thunder have seventeen players listed on their season ending roster list one of is former Vernon Vipers defenceman Cameron Brodie.

Stockton Thunder Season Ending Roster:

Kevin Baker, Matt Foy, Jesse Fratkin, Jordan Fulton, Garet Hunt, Gabriel Levesque, Jason Morgan, Matt Reber, Cameron Brodie, Nathan Deck, Tony DeHart, Rob Kwiet, Mike Little, Adam Maccarone, Brock Matheson, Sebastian Owuya & Dan Ringwald

Cameron Brodie finished his second season with the Thunder, also played three games with the AHL Texas Stars this past season before returning to Stockton. In 52 regular season games with the Thunder Brodie collected (0-7-7) & collected just one assist in eight playoff games. Brodie played parts of one season in Vernon (2008-2009) after being aquired from the Coquitlam Express at the BCHL trade deadline.

Cameron Brodie's Player Profile:

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

This is posted on the Thunder website:

11-12 Season Ending Roster

Friday, 06.15.12

By Stockton Thunder Staff

17 ECHL contracted players listed as eligible for qualifying offers by July 1

STOCKTON, Calif. – The Stockton Thunder, ECHL affiliate of the Edmonton Oilers and San Jose Sharks of the National Hockey League, announced its 2011-12 Season Ending Roster, which includes 17 players signed to an ECHL contract with the Thunder from this past season.

Season Ending Rosters may include up to 20 players. Season Ending Rosters cannot include any players who did not sign an ECHL contract in 2011-12.

This is posted on the ECHL website:

ECHL announces Season-Ending Rosters

June 15, 2012

PRINCETON, N.J. - The ECHL on Friday announced the Season-Ending Rosters as submitted by each of its member teams.

Season-Ending Rosters may include up to 20 players. Season-Ending Rosters cannot include any players who did not sign an ECHL contract in 2011-12.

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 2012-13 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 will retain the rights to that veteran until Aug. 1. After Aug. 1, if the veteran player is not signed to a contract by the team, the veteran 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.

Phantoms Re-Sign Former Vernon Lakers Forward Jeff Glowa:

The EPIHL Peterborough Phantoms have re-signed former Vernon Lakers forward Jeff Glowa.  Glowa has spent the past two seaons with the Phantoms after playing six years with the Hull Stingrays where he racked up over 300 points.  Glowa played parts of the two seasons in Vernon (1993-1995) before being traded during the 1994-95 season.

Jeff Glowa's Player Profile:

http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=66754

This is posted on the Phantoms website:

Phantoms Sign Glowa and Ziedins

May 28, 2012

The Dalrod sponsored Peterborough Phantoms Ice Hockey Club have tonight announced that Jeff Glowa and Maris Ziedins have both re-signed with the team for the forthcoming season.

Calgary born Jeff made his senior hockey debut in the 1996/1997 season with the Cowichan Valley Capitals of the British Columbia Hockey League before playing NCHA, WHA and CHL hockey – the latter with the wonderfully named Bossier-Shreveport Mudbugs !

The 2004/2005 season saw Jeff debuting in UK hockey with Hull Stingrays where he went on to spend six seasons, racking up over 300 points before joining the Phantoms for a 2010/2011 campaign that added a further 90 points to his career stats.

Latvian born Maris, played junior hockey with Latvian club THK Talsi before moving to play senior hockey for the US Hockey League’s Green Bay Gamblers in the 1998/1999 season as a 20 year old.

Maris played four seasons with the NCAA’s St. Norbert College side, two seasons with the UHL’s Rockford Icehogs before touring the East Coast Hockey League with Toledo, Greenville and Stockton. During his ECHL campaigns, Maris took time out to star with the Latvian national side in the 2005 World Championships and played and scored in the 2006 Olympic Games.

After spending the 2006/2007 season with the United Hockey League’s Chicago Hounds, where he was selected for his conference’s All-Star team, Maris decided to hang up his skates but was tempted back out of retirement by Phantoms coach Phil David who gave him his UK debut in December 2007. Since then, the Latvian has helped Phantoms to four major trophies and has proved very popular with the Bretton faithful, racking up nearly 350 points in his time here.

Head Coach Jon Kynaston commented on the signings ‘Maris is a model pro. He remains a sought after player and he has the ability to score past the best minders in the EPL – it’s a boost to have him back.

‘Jeff is having an operation imminently and a fully fit Glowa for 2012-13 will be great for our team.

‘By the high standards these two have set themselves 2011-12 was an average one. I am confident with the environment we will have and the focus we put on we will see Jeff and Maris back amongst the top delivering forwards in the EPL.

‘With that adding to what we already have I am pleased with the teams make up so far. Our budget may not stretch as far as a lot of our opponents but we will be planning and spending as wisely as we can to prepare for what will once again be a very strong and competitive EPL.

‘I am looking forward very much to working with both players and I know they are keen to play their part in our season.’

Vipers Tee Up Charity Golf Tourney:

This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:

Vipers tee up charity golf tourney

Published: July 08, 2012

Kevin Mitchell/Morning Star

Carey Price of the Montreal Canadiens is confirmed. So is Jerred Smithson of the Florida Panthers.

The two NHLers, who have strong ties to the Vernon Vipers, will help jumpstart the B.C. Hockey League team’s inaugural Charity Golf Tournament for KidSport.

The 18-hole scramble goes Sunday, Aug. 26 at The Golf Club at The Rise, who are running the tourney alongside the Vipers.

Entry fee is $150 which includes golf, power cart, dinner tee gift and prizes. There will be a 1 p.m. shotgun start.

“We’d love to get 120 players and fill it,” said Lee Ranger, head pro at The Rise. “It’s wide open to adults and juniors and we’ll have special hole sponsors and hole-in-one prizes.”

The Vipers will open the weekend with an exhibition game on the Saturday night against the North American Hockey League Wenatchee Wild (Wesbild Centre).

Proceeds from the game will also be directed to KidSport. There will be silent auction items available at both venues.

“KidSport is the charitable arm of Sport B.C. and has been distributing money to underprivileged children that could not afford to participate in sports, since 1993,” said Ann Holmes of Vernon.

“KidSport communities have been created around the province to allow the funds to be administered locally, with all monies raised staying right in the community. In 2001, the Greater Vernon KidSport Fund was established, and started raising funds and distributing money for children in need in the Greater Vernon area.”

Entries and sponsorship at several levels are required. Interested parties may call Ranger at 250-545-7425, or e-mail lee.ranger@therise.ca, or Vipers’ marketing manager Paula Coulter at 250-542-6022 ext. 200, or marketing@vipers.bc.ca.

KISS-FM and The Morning Star are confirmed as major tourney sponsors.

Eagles Add Former Vernon Vipers Cey & Smeltzer To Teams Season Ending Roster:

On Friday, June 15th the ECHL announced the Season-Ending Rosters as submitted by each of its member teams. The Colorado Eagles have nineteen players listed on their season ending roster list two of wich are former Vernon Vipers defenceman Isaac Smeltzer & forward Patrick Cey.

Colorado Eagles Season Ending Roster:


Jordan Baker, Patrick Cey, Jack Combs, Chad Costello, Steve Haddon, Teegan Moore, Riley Nelson, Alex Penner, Joey Sides, Kevin Ulanski, Jason Beatty, Jon Landry, Kyle Peto, Aaron Schneekloth, Isaac Smeltzer, Luka Vidmar, Brennan Yadlowski, Kyle Jones & Damien Ketlo


Patrick Cey finished his first season with the Eagles. In 53 regular season games Cey picked up 7 goals-12 assists & 20 points but went pointless in two ECHL Playoff games. Cey played two years in Vernon (2005-2007). In 73 regular season games with the Vipers Cey collected (31-35-66).

Patrick Cey's Player Profile:

http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=92087

Isaac Smeltzer finished his first season with the Eagles after recently signing with Colorado back on March, 14th 2012. Smeltzer picked up one assist in eleven regular season games with the Eagles but went pointless in the ECHL Playoffs. Smeltzer completed his fourth season at Brock University before signing with the Eagles. Smeltzer played his first three and a half seasons in the BCHL with the Alberni Valley Bulldogs before being traded to Vernon in his final season of Junior hockey (2007-2008). Alberni Valley traded Smeltzer to Vernon on November, 29th 2007 for forward, Evan Witt and defenceman, Eliot Raibl. Smeltzer collected (6-17-23) in 29 regular season games with the Vipers.

Isaac Smeltzer's Player Profile:

http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=80371

This is posted on the Eagles website:

Colorado Eagles Submit Season Ending Roster

06/15/2012

WINDSOR, Colo. - The Colorado Eagles, along with every other ECHL club that played last season, submitted today their Season Ending Roster, a list of up to 20 players from their previously announced Protected List whom they retain negotiating rights with until July 1; players not listed on a team's Season Ending Roster become unrestricted free agents. All 19 players on the Eagles' Protected List, which was submitted on June 1, were also included on their Season Ending Roster; the 10 forwards, seven defensemen & two goaltenders are listed below.

Players listed below who do not sign contracts by July 1 will become unrestricted free agents unless they are given a Qualifying Offer from the team, of which each club may issue up to eight. No more than four of a team's Qualifying Offers may be given to veteran players (non-goalies who have played in at least 260 pro regular season games). If the Qualifying Offers are not signed by Aug. 1, they become void and the players can be signed for a different amount or choose not to sign at all, however, their ECHL rights will be retained by the offering team for the entirety of the following season, unless they are a veteran player.

If the player is a veteran, they become a restricted free agent throughout the month of August, during which they may attempt to negotiate a deal with another team. If they agree to a deal with a different team, the team that offered the Qualifying Offer has one week to match the other team's contract offer. Veterans who have not signed a contract of any kind by Aug. 31 become unrestricted free agents, free to sign with any club with no other qualifications.

This is posted on the ECHL website:

ECHL announces Season-Ending Rosters

June 15, 2012

PRINCETON, N.J. - The ECHL on Friday announced the Season-Ending Rosters as submitted by each of its member teams.

Season-Ending Rosters may include up to 20 players. Season-Ending Rosters cannot include any players who did not sign an ECHL contract in 2011-12.

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 2012-13 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 will retain the rights to that veteran until Aug. 1. After Aug. 1, if the veteran player is not signed to a contract by the team, the veteran 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.

Former Vipers Defenceman Morgan Reflects On Game 5 Hit VS. D-Backs:

The Arizona Diamondbacks returned to Miller Park last weekend (Friday) for the first time since former Vernon Vipers defenceman Nyjer Morgan ended the D-backs' 2011 season after he bounced a single up the middle in the 10th inning of Game 5 of the National League Division Series, a hit that sent the Brewers on to the NL Championship Series.  Morgan played as an "AP" as a 16 year old with the Vipers during the (1996-1997) season.  On September 1, 2007, Morgan made his major league debut for the Pittsburgh Pirates against the Milwaukee Brewers as a late-season call-up.  Morgan in his second season with the Brewers is with his third major league team Pittsburgh, Washington & Milwaukee.

Nyjer Morgan's Player Profile:

http://brewers.mlb.com/team/player.jsp?player_id=460579#gameType='S'§ionType=career&statType=1&season=2012

This is posted on the Brewers website:

Morgan reflects on Game 5 hit vs. D-backs

By Adam McCalvy and Jeremy Warnemuende / MLB.com | 06/29/12

MILWAUKEE -- The D-backs returned to Miller Park on Friday for the first time since the best day of Nyjer Morgan's baseball life.

The Brewers' outfielder ended the D-backs' 2011 season when he bounced a single up the middle in the 10th inning of Game 5 of the National League Division Series, a hit that sent the Brewers on to the NL Championship Series and cemented a permanent place for Morgan in franchise lore.

"Honestly, I don't think it's even going to hit me until I'm done playing this game," Morgan said. "I know what it means to the city and the organization, but it hasn't hit me yet. It was just playing another game."

Morgan's bouncer is on a short list of the most memorable hits in Brewers history, alongside Robin Yount's two home runs off the Orioles' Jim Palmer in an American League East-clinching win in 1982, Cecil Cooper's winning single in Game 5 of that year's AL Championship Series, the back-to-back home runs by Rob Deer and Dale Sveum on Easter Sunday in 1987 and Ryan Braun's go-ahead homer in the 2008 regular-season finale that helped clinch Milwaukee's return to postseason play.

Morgan has seen the replay of his winning hit once or twice in the months since, but he's reminded about it every time a fan stops him on the street or at a mall in Milwaukee.

"That's the best part about it," he said. "When I'm around the city and understand what that meant to the community and the city of Milwaukee, words can't explain the expression on fans' faces when we're talking. It means so much to me, seeing the excitement in their eyes."

Islanders Sign Former Viper Matt Watkins:

The New York Islanders have signed free agent and former Vernon Vipers forward Matt Watkins to a one-year, two way contract on Monday.  In 70 regular season games with the AHL Portland Pirates last season Watkins collected (11-25-36) and in one game with the NHL Pheonix Coyotes Watkins went pointless.  The Coyotes called up Watkins during this years Stanley cup playoffs but the former Viper never played a game while with the Coyotes before being sent back down to the American Hockey League.  Watkins was drafted by the Dallas Stars in the 5th round #160th overall in 2005 but never played with the Stars, before signing an entry-level contract with the Coyotes in 2009 as a free agent.  Watkins played one season in Vernon (2004-05) collecting (36-38-74) in 60 regular season games with the Vipers.

Matt Watkins Player Profile:

http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=74941

This was posted in the Connecticutplus.com website:

Watkins agrees on two-way deal, Landry to one-year deal

By Sound Tigers

Published: Jul 3, 2012

BRIDGEPORT, CT - The New York Islanders announced Monday that Matt Watkins has agreed to terms on a one-year, two-way contract.

Watkins, 25, scored 36 points (11 goals, 25 assists) in 70 games last season with the Portland Pirates of the American Hockey League. The Regina, SK, native also made his NHL debut last year, appearing in one game with the Phoenix Coyotes.

The Dallas Stars selected Watkins in the fifth round, 160th overall, of the 2005 NHL Draft. After completing a four-year collegiate career at the University of North Dakota, Watkins spent his first two professional seasons with the AHL’s San Antonio Rampage. In 185 career AHL games with San Antonio and Portland, the 5’10, 190-pound forward scored 38 goals and 55 assists.

The New York Islanders also announced Monday that defenseman Jon Landry has agreed to terms on a one-year, two-way contract for the upcoming 2012-13 season.

Landry, 29, earns the first NHL contract of his career after splitting time between the Colorado Eagles of the East Coast Hockey League and the New York Islanders’ American Hockey League affiliate, the Bridgeport Sound Tigers, last season.

The Montreal, PQ native recorded 30 points (12 goals, 18 assists) in 35 games with Colorado (ECHL) before joining the Sound Tigers midway through the 2011-12 campaign. Landry posted 20 points (two goals, 18 assists) and finished third in scoring among Sound Tigers defenseman despite appearing in just 34 games with the club.

Prior to last season, Landry played for Braehead Clan of the Elite Ice Hockey League in the United Kingdom where he totaled 58 points (18 goals, 40 assists) in 54 contests during the 2010-11 season. Landry also spent four seasons with the Arizona Sundogs of the Central Hockey League, notching 129 points (36 goals, 93 assists) in 203 games.

The 6’3”, 220-pound defenseman played collegiately at Bowdoin College from 2002-06 and scored 51 goals and 70 assists for 121 points in 98 games.

Former Vipers Forward Mike Santorelli Clears Waivers:

Former Vernon Vipers forward Mike Santorelli cleared waivers Friday after the Florida Panthers placed Santorelli on waivers Thursday. Santorelli was drafted by the Nashville Predators in round 6 178th overall at the 2004 NHL Entry Draft before being traded to the Panthers back on August, 5th 2010. Santorelli played in 60 regular season games this past season collecting (9-2-11). Santorelli played one season in Vernon (2003-2004) In 60 regular season games with the Vipers Santorelli collected (43-53-96).

Mike Santorelli's Player Profile:

http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=76527

This was posted on the SunSentinel.com website:

Santorelli and Bradley clear waivers; Garrison probably will test free agency

by: Harvey Fialkov June 29th, 2012

As expected both forwards Mike Santorelli and Matt Bradley cleared waivers today. Bradley was on unconditional waivers so unless he is traded the Panthers will have to buy him out by 5 p.m. Saturday. Santorelli is back on the roster and will not doubt be peddled. Panthers asst. GM Mike Santos, who brought Santorelli with him from Nashville, believes he just might need a change of scenery and more ice time to regain his confidence. Santos doesn’t expect the Panthers to make near the splash into free agency that they did last summer but instead will be trolling the free-agent waters for role players to complement their young core of blossoming forwards such as Kris Versteeg, Tomas Fleischmann, Sean Bergenheim and Stephen Weiss. There is nothing imminent on Canucks disenchanted goalie Roberto Luongo. Santos, who last month made it clear he would prefer young goalie Jacob Markstrom to return to the Rampage for a complete AHL season, said he’d be confident with Jose Theodore and Markstrom as his goalies this season.

He’s not allowed to talk about other team’s players or free agents but he did admit that the Panthers UFAs, including defenseman Jason Garrison, will most definitely test free agency at this point of the game. That of course doesn’t close the door on any of them returning, such as Garry, goalie Scott Clemmensen or forward Mikael Samuelsson if they don’t get what they want on the free market. Garrison will get plenty of lucrative offers thrown his way so he may be tought to re-sign, especially after the deal Wideman got yesterday. Santos said that prospect Rocco Grimaldi won’t be at Monday’s development camp more because of issues at college and not with his surgically repaired knee.

 Expect last year’s No. 3 pick Jonathan Huberdeau to be on the Panthers this season because he is just 19 and has nothing else to prove in juniors. The new cap may be $70 million but the Panthers spend to their allotted budget which means they probably have about $20 million available but will only spend about half that. Remember they only have about 3-4 roster spots available this year with Tyson Strachan slated to be up with the big guys. Huberdeau takes up another spot.
More coming for Sunday’s advance on free agency.

Troy Cherwinski Vernon Vipers Jersey For Sale On Ebay:

Ebay currently has a game worn Vernon Vipers Troy Cherwinski away jersey for sale. With three days left the jersey is starting at $149.99 Cherwinski played two seasons in Vernon (2004-2006) after being aquired in a trade from the Victoria Salsa.

Troy Cherwinski's Player Profile:

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/rosters_profile.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&teamID=41837&playerID=68774

To bid on the jersey,

http://www.ebay.com/itm/GAME-WORN-VERNON-VIPERS-FIGHTER-BCHL-HOCKEY-JERSEY-TROY-CHERWINSKI-/120942551175?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_2&hash=item1c28bce087

Wild Re-Sign Former Vipers Defenceman Chay Genoway:

The Minnesota Wild have re-signed restricted free agent former Vernon Vipers defenceman Chay Genoway to a two year deal.

Genoway finished his first season with the AHL Houston Aeros playing in 72 regular season games this past season collecting (7-29-36) Genoway made his NHL debut this past season with the Minnesota Wild on April, 7th 2012 collecting 1 assist and being named 2nd star vs the Pheonix Coyotes. Genoway played one season in Vernon (2005-2006). In 56 regular season games with the Vipers Genoway collected (17-32-49). The Minnesota Wild signed Genoway to an entry-level contract back on April, 12th 2011.

Chay Genoway's Player Profile:

http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=92084

This is posted on the Wild website:

Wild Agrees To Terms With Genoway

Friday, 06.29.2012

By Mike Doyle  - Digital Media Coordinator

The Wild has retained the services of another defenseman, as Minnesota has agreed to terms with Chay Genoway with a two-year deal.

The University of North Dakota product spent nearly all of last season with the Houston Aeros, the Wild’s American Hockey League affiliate, before being recalled to the big club. Genoway made his NHL debut in the Wild’s last game of the season against the Phoenix Coyotes on April 7, 2012, recording one assist in 18:16 of ice time.

An offensive-minded defenseman, the Swan River, Manitoba native racked up 36 points (7-29=36) in his first season of pro hockey with the Aeroes.

Genoway’s contributions to Houston didn’t end on the ice. He was named the Aeros' winner of the IOA/American Specialty AHL Man of the Year award for his outstanding contributions to the Houston community during the 2011-12 season.

Before signing with the Wild as a free agent last summer, the 25 year old spent five years at North Dakota. He suffered a year-ending injury during the 2009-10 season and was granted a medical redshirt to return for a fifth season. Genoway returned with a vengeance in 2010-11. In 36 games, Genoway posted 8 goals and 31 assists. He captained UND to the Broadmoor Trophy, awarded to the WCHA playoff championship, and a Frozen Four appearance.

Genoway scored 127 career points in college, good for fourth among defensemen all-time at UND. He was an All-WCHA First Team selection in his final year.
Genoway joins forwards Matt Kassian, Chad Rau and Stephane Veilleux to re-sign with the Wild this week

Avalanche Name Former Vipers Assistant Coach Chris Shaw New Head Coach-GM:

The WSHL Ontario Avalanche have named former Vernon Vipers Assistant Coach Chris Shaw new Head Coach Coach-GM.  Shaw who finished his first and only season as an Assistant Coach with the Vipers (2011-12) was released by the Vipers in the off season.  The Vipers finished the season with a 30-27-1-2 record finishing 5th in the Interior Conference missing the BCHL playoffs.

This is posted on the Avalanche website:

Head Coach & GM Announcement
 
Tuesday, May 1, 2012 - Submitted by Admin

Chris Shaw of British Columbia has accepted the Head Coach / GM position with the WSHL’s Ontario Avalanche. Shaw’s coaching career started as an Assistant Coach with the Alberni Valley Bulldogs of the BCHL, followed by an Associate position with the Penticton Lakers in the KIJHL. In 2010-11, Chris was appointed Head Coach/GM of the Nelson Leafs in the KIJHL. This past season, Chris served as an Associate Coach/Assistant GM with the 6-time BCHL & 6-time National Champion, Vernon Vipers.

Prior to coaching, Chris spent 4 years in the BCHL with the Victoria Salsa and Burnaby Bulldogs, receiving a NCAA Division 1 scholarship to the University of Niagara Purple Eagles. With his collegiate career completed, Chris went on to play 6 seasons of professional hockey in the ECHL, CHL and UHL. Coach Shaw’s plans are now centered on being a long time coach in Southern California focusing on player development.

Tom Meyer, president and owner of the Ontario Avalanche stated, “I believe Chris is the perfect balance of experience and youth. He has a lot to prove here and will be outstanding at his job. His passion and knowledge for the game is second to none and I look forward to a long relationship with him.”

BCHL Trades From The Months Of May & June:

Here's a look at trades that happened in May & June, these have been posted on the BCHL League web site.

01-May-12 The Victoria Grizzlies Hockey Club transfers the playing rights of Jeff Archibald and Taylor Wells back to the Dauphin Kings Hockey Club of the MJHL in exchange for future considerations.

24-May-12 The Powell River Kings Hockey Club acquires the playing rights of Robbie Murden (92) from the Toronto Lakeshore Patriots of the OJHL in exchange for future considerations.

28-May-12 The Trail Smoke Eaters Hockey Club transfers the playing rights of Brandon Long (93) to the Battlesford North Stars Hockey Club of the SJHL in exchange for future considerations.

29-May-12 The Vernon Vipers Hockey Club transfers the playing rights of Max Mowat (93)(D) to the Trail Smoke Eaters Hockey Club in exchange for future considerations.

30-May-12 The Trail Smoke Eaters Hockey Club transfers the playing rights of Kyle Hrsman to the WhiteCourt Wolverines of the AJHL in exchange for future considerations.

31-May-12 The Trail Smoke Eaters Hockey Club transfers the playing rights of Adam Fares (92)(F) to the Prince George Spruce Kings Hockey Club in exchange for future considerations.

31-May-12 The Westside Warriors Hockey Club transfers the playing rights of Travis Blanleil (94)(F) to the Penticton Vees Hockey Club in exchange for future considerations.

01-Jun-12 The Westside Warriors Hockey Club transfers the playing rights of Curtis Toneff (93) to the Winkler Flyers Hockey Club of the MJHL in exchange for future considerations.

02-Jun-12 The Langley Rivermen Hockey Club transfers the playing rights of Raymond Bell to the Lloyminster Bobcats of the AJHL in exchange for future considerations.

04-Jun-12 The Langley Rivermen Hockey Club transfers the playing rights of Jackson Playfair (94)(F) to the Nanaimo Clippers Hockey Club in exchange for future considerations.

04-Jun-12 The Prince George Spruce Kings Hockey Club transfers the playing rights of Adam Fares (93) and future considerations to the Oakville Blades Hockey Club of the OJHL in exchange for the playing rights of Brad Ryan (92).

12-Jun-12 The Prince George Spruce Kings Hockey Club transfers the playing rights of Patrick Chore (93) and future considerations to the Oakville Blades Hockey Club of the OJHL in exchange for the playing rights of Liam Board (93).

14-Jun-12 The Merritt Centennials Hockey Club transfers the playing rights of Austin Plevy (94)(F) and the CJHL playing rights to Keith Hamilton (92)(G) to the Chilliwack Chiefs Hockey Club for the playing rights of Derek Huisman (92)(F).

14-Jun-12 The Powell River Kings Hockey Club acquire the playing rights of Robbie Murden (92) from the Toronto Lakeshore Patriots Hockey Club of the OJHL in exchange for future considerations.

18-Jun-12 The Nanaimo Clippers Hockey Club transfers the playing rights of Mike Sones (92), Paul Bourbeau (92) and Brett Harskamp (92) and future considerations to the Swan Valley Stampeders Hockey Club of the MJHL in exchange for the playing rights of Jayson Argue (93)(G).

24-Jun-12 The Merritt Centennials Hockey Club transfers the playing rights of Jakob Reichert (93)(F) to the Langley Rivermen Hockey Club in exchange for the playing rights of Austin Plevy (94)(F) and Sebastien Pare (93)(F).

25-Jun-12 The Surrey Eagles Hockey Club transfers the playing rights of Conor Barrie (93)(G) to the Langley Rivermen Hockey Club in exchange for future considerations.

29-Jun-12 The Alberni Valley Bulldogs Hockey Club transfers the playing rights of R. J. Reed (92)(F) and future considerations to the Calgary Mustangs Hockey Club of the AJHL in exchange for the playing rights of Jay Deo (92)(G).

29-Jun-12 The Alberni Valley Bulldogs Hockey Club transfers the playing rights of Tyler Berkholtz (92)(F) to the Trail Smoke Eaters Hockey Club in exchange for future considerations.

Former Vernon Viper Nyjer Morgan Says Incident With Fan Nothing Major:

Former Vernon Vipers defenceman Nyjer Morgan chased down a foul fly ball Wednesday ended up tangled up with a Reds fan before pushing him away while exchanging words.  Morgan played as an "AP" as a 16 year old with the Vipers during the (1996-1997) season. Morgan was drafted by the Pittsburgh Pirates in the 33rd round of the 2002 Major League Baseball Draft, On September 1, 2007, Morgan in his second season with the Brewers is with his third major league team Pittsburgh, Washington & Milwaukee.

Nyjer Morgan's Player Profile:

http://brewers.mlb.com/team/player.jsp?player_id=460579#gameType='S'§ionType=career&statType=1&season=2012

Here is the video,

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aHp3jzst5Q4

This is posted on the Brewers website:

Morgan says incident with fan 'nothing major'

Brewers outfielder gets tangled with Reds backer, has words

By Adam McCalvy / MLB.com | 06/27/12

CINCINNATI -- Brewers outfielder Nyjer Morgan downplayed his brief encounter with a fan during the ninth inning of Wednesday's 8-4 win over the Reds at Great American Ball Park.

Morgan chased a foul fly ball down the right-field line and tangled arms with a fan in the front row. Morgan pushed away, then had some words with the fan before umpire Marty Foster urged him to return to his position.

"It's just one of those things where we were tangled up; I could have made a play on the ball," Morgan said. "I just gave him a little, 'Get off me,' because he was all on my arm and everything. Nothing major, but everybody might blow it up a little differently."

Morgan said the fan had some choice words for him after the non-play, and Morgan responded. That brought other Reds fans in the same section of seats into the discussion.

Both Morgan and Brewers manager Ron Roenicke said the fan did his job, disrupting an opponent from making a catch.

"That's what the home fans are supposed to do, try to take the ball from the opposing team when the ball is in the stands," Morgan said. "It's fair game once the ball is in the stands."

He added: "It was nothing major. ... I'm a fan, too. I would have done the same thing."

Morgan has more than 88,000 followers on Twitter (@TheRealTPlush) and is a fan favorite in Milwaukee, but he has a knack for riling fans on the road. In the span of 10 days in 2010, he was suspended a total of 15 days for throwing a ball into the stands at Philadelphia and for his role in a brawl in Miami. Last year, San Francisco fans let Morgan have it after what he calls a misinterpreted hand signal to the center-field bleachers, and St. Louis fans reacted to Morgan's part in a series of disputes with the Cardinals.

Wednesday's interaction capped an interesting day for Morgan, whose misplay of a fly ball in the third inning contributed to one of the two earned runs against Brewers starter Zack Greinke. In the seventh, Morgan couldn't get to a low-and-away pitch on a suicide-squeeze play, leaving Cody Ransom out between third base and home.

"I just couldn't get to the ball because the ball was scraping the dirt," Morgan said.

"He should have tried to bunt at it," Roenicke said. "He did some interesting things today."

Roenicke had a discussion with Morgan on a couple of topics but said he had not seen video of the play in the ninth inning. He did not view it as an issue.

"He's trying to do everything he can to help us win," Roenicke said. "He's trying to create some things, and sometimes you just have to let them happen. His effort and his mindset are in the right place."

Panthers Place Former Vipers Forward Mike Santorelli On Waivers:

The Florida Panthers placed former Vernon Vipers forward Mike Santorelli on waivers Thursday.  Santorelli was drafted by the Nashville Predators in round 6 178th overall at the 2004 NHL Entry Draft before being traded to the Panthers back on August, 5th 2010. Santorelli played in 60 regular season games this past season collecting (9-2-11). Santorelli played one season in Vernon (2003-2004) In 60 regular season games with the Vipers Santorelli collected (43-53-96).

Mike Santorelli's Player Profile:

http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=76527

This was in the Miami Herald Newspaper:

Florida Panthers place two players on waivers as free agency approaches

The Miami Herald

Posted on Friday, 06.29.12

The Florida Panthers made a number of roster moves in preparation for the start of free agency on Sunday. On Thursday, the Panthers placed forwards Matt Bradley and Mike Santorelli on waivers.

Bradley was placed on unconditional waivers – which means he will not return. Florida will buy out the remainder of Bradley’s contract and pay him two-thirds of the $1 million owed to him over the next two seasons.

Bradley played in just 45 games with the Panthers last year because of a couple of injuries – including a concussion suffered in February against the Ducks. That injury basically ended his season even though he practiced with the team during the playoffs.

Santorelli was placed on regular waivers, and although Florida could still bring him back, it is not likely. Santorelli is owed $1.6 million for next season so Florida would owe him almost $1.1 million over the next two years – if he isn’t claimed by another team off re-entry waivers.

Santorelli signed a two-year deal with the Panthers after he had a breakout year in 2010-11 by scoring 20 goals and playing in all 82 games. But Santorelli missed the start of the year with a shoulder injury and never got on track offensively ending with nine goals in 60 games. Santorelli played in just one of Florida’s final 12 regular-season games and sat the entire postseason.

Florida also made qualifying offers to nine restricted free agents – including roster players Kris Versteeg, Dmitry Kulikov and Keaton Ellerby – on Monday. Wotjek Wolski, who made $4 million last season from the Rangers and Panthers, was not tendered an offer and is a free agent. He will be eligible to sign with any team – including the Panthers – starting Sunday.