Former Viper Goodrunning Traded:

Former Vernon Vipers forward, Dallas Goodrunning has been traded to Beausejour. This was posted on the AJHL website.


September 30 – The Olds Grizzlys trade the CHA rights of Dallas Goodrunning and Kyle Harty to the Beausejour Blades (MJHL) for the CHA rights of Ryan Cornforth.

Salmon Arm 7 Vernon 2

Salmon Arm 7 Vernon 2

Was at tonights game as Salmon Arm defeated Vernon 7-2 in front 1,312 fans at the Sunwave Center.

1st Period: This is the start of a five game road trip for Vernon & they didnt get off to a good start. Off the opening draw, Captain Chris Crowell was hit hard almost going over into the Backs bench, Crowell lost his stick and couldnt recover fast enough to get back into the play, the play went up ice as Conor Morrison cut hard towards the net, getting a shot off, Andrew Hammond made the big pad save but couldnt handle the rebound as Keenan Desmet gobbled up the loose puck putting past Hammond as the Silverbacks jumped out to the early lead just 15 seconds into the game. Vernon responded well, off the next faceoff the Vipers got the puck deep in the Backs zone, as Kyle Bigos fed Connor Jones who beat Bryan Gillis tying the game up 1-1 just 20 seconds later. Not much flow in the early goings with some scrambly play at either ends of the rink. Alot of whistles-stopages in play resulted in a slow pace 1st period. Salmon Arms best scoring chance came when Kyle Bigos went for the puck and not the body, Bigos couldnt handle the puck as Mark Zengerle skated by Bigos, come down the right wing and wired a shot from the circle but rang it off the far post. The Vipers best scoring chance came when Bryce Kakoske made a nice pass from the side boards, hitting a wide open Braden Pimm, but Pimm would hit the post on the play. Overall not many great scoring chances as most of the shots were from the slot with very little bodies in front, both goaltenders seemed to see most of the shots. The Silverbacks were playing physical, laying out some good checks, and always finishing there checks, as Vernon on the other hand was shying away from the physical play, not getting involved. The final minute of the period took wich seemed to be a very long time with almost a whistle every few seconds, with just 2.1 seconds remaining in the 1st Mark Zengerle won the draw deep in the Vipers zone, getting the puck over to a wide open Conor Morrison who would find the empty net as the puck went in at the buzzer giving the Backs a 2-1 lead with no time left on the clock. Vernon should have never allowed the Backs to win the draw, let alone score with 2.1 seconds left. Both Vernon D-men left Morrison wide open and untouched. The Silverbacks were up 2-1 after 20 mins of play. Salmon Arm outshot Vernon 10-8.

2nd Period: Vipers come out very flat, as Salmon Arm was flying winning all the battles, races to the puck and overall outplaying the Vipers early to start the 2nd. Salmon Arm had loads of jump having the better of the play as Vernon looked very slow and sluggish having all kinds of trouble in there own end. The Backs took advantage of the Vipers slow start and with some very nice three way passing, Salmon Arm would jump ahead 3-1 after Kennan Desmet, Conor Morrison & Mark Zengerle with some tic tac toe passing, Zengerle beat Hammond as the Vipers were caught just standing around. Kevin Kraus coughed up the puck in the neutral zone as Mark Zengerle beat Kraus, stole the puck and then went in on the parcial breakaway but was stopped by Hammond, the play come back the other way, as Sahir Gill would break down the wing on a parcial breakaway but was stopped by Gillis. The Silverbacks kept up the presure pouring it on getting all kinds of room to move and create scoring chances, as the Backs were buzzing around the Vernon zone. Salmon Arm would go up 4-1 after Sam Micthell stepped over the blueline and took wich seemed to be a weak shot towards the net, somehow eluded Hammond wich looked to have missplaced it as the puck dropped and went under Hammonds glove. This was the first soft goal Hammond has given up all season, as Hammond was pulled from the game, giving up 4 goals on just 15 shots, rookie backup Mark Segal came into the game in just his 2nd BCHL game. It seem to matter who was in goal for Vernon as the Silverbacks were getting a powerplay, Gillis went to the bench for the extra man, as the Vipers couldnt touch the puck to stop the play, the Backs moved the puck well down low, wich seemed to be passed around for a good minute before Mark Zengerle would score his 2nd goal of the night sliding the puck past Mark Segal as the Silverbacks were up 5-1 and in full control. Mark Ferner finally decided to call a timeout with the Vipers down 5-1. Ferners timeout seemed to give his troops some life as Vernon responded finally getting the puck deep into the Backs zone, cyclying the puck well down low, and now creating some chances. The Vipers moved the puck well, and did get some chances but Bryan Gillis was there to come up with the save. Gillis made his biggest save of the night, coming up with a big glove save. Around 5 m mins left in the period Vernon would get one past Gillis as Kory Roy & Rob Short did all the hard work in the corner and then fed Mike Collins who would score his 3rd of the year cutting the lead to 5-2. Vernon now had the edge in play after dominating the last 4-5 mins with some good hard work, but just 3 mins later Salmon Arm would once again find the back of the net after Mark Zengerle made a nice pass over to Keenan Desmet who beat Segal as the Backs would score 4 goals in the 2nd and were up 6-2 after 40 mins of play. Shots were even 15 each.

3rd Period: With the Silverbacks on the powerplay, the Vipers gave the Backs way too much time and room to setup, and it cost them as just 52 seconds into the 3rd veteran D-man, Matt Grassi had all day to wire his shot from the point putting Salmon Arm up 7-2. This seemed to put the game away as both teams didnt seem to have much drive after the 7th Silverbacks goal. Both teams seemed to just want to let the clock wind down and go home. Some back & forth play at both ends but very little scoring chances. With Kevin Kraus heading to the penalty box, Kraus mouthed off to the ref so was rewarded with a 10 min misconduct, with under 10 mins to go in the game, Kraus headed to the Vipers dressing room for the early shower. Not much excitement in the final period as the Backs would defeat Vernon for the 2nd straight game blowing out Vernon 7-2.

Top Players: (Vernon)

Mike Collins (1 Goal) Played well, this kid has the potential but just needs sometime to get his confidence going, needs some work on his skating as well as adding that edge to his game. I do see a future with Collins.

Top Players: (Salmon Arm)

The line of Conor Morrison, (1 Goal & 3 Assists) Mark Zengerle (2 Goals & 2 Assists) & Keenan Desmet (2 Goals & 2 Assists) was by far the best players for Salmon Arm. This line was basically untouchable, the Vipers gave these kids way too much time & space all night, they were able to walk in the slot get a shot off, and collect the rebound without being touched. Zengerle has some wheels and was flying all game, put on a clinic on the Vipers defence. Had a few great scoring chances. Desmet scored one real nice goal, this kid isnt all that big but is fun to watch. What can you say about Conor Morrison, this kid has Vernons number. It seems anytime these two teams hook up Morrison always seems to find the back of the net, atleast once. Vernon needs to keep there eye on him as well as this line.

Matt Grassi (1 Goal) saw alot of icetime, played well defensivly.

Game Thoughts: (Vernon)

This isnt the start the Vipers wanted to begin a five game road trip, lets hope they can rebound and turn things around Wednesday in Powell River. Vipers didnt get off to a great start, giving up the first goal just 15 seconds into the game. Yes they responded well by scoring just 20 seconds later to tie the game 1-1 but should have never allowed Salmon Arm or any team score a goal with just 2.1 seconds left in a period. This goal seemed to deflate the Vipers as they couldnt recover, starting the 2nd flat and then giving up 4 goals during the 2nd period and not having much of a chance to recover. Just a brutal 2nd period, no jump or life for most of the 2nd & 3rd periods. The Vipers were being outplayed, outskated, and just couldnt compete against a very strong looking Silverbacks hockey club. Vernon lost most of the puck battles and races during the 2nd period. Vipers looked lifeless and didnt seem to want to be in tonights game. Connor Jones looked lost and is not the same player without his brother Kellen. Once again the Vipers were outhit and outmuscled for most of the night, way too soft. You can have all the talent in the world but you need to play physical, finish your checks and work hard. Vipers didnt hit anyone tonight, shyed away from the corners-hits for most of the night. Just a poor effort after playing good in last nights 3-1 win over Westside. Once again another loss after a win. This is already starting to look like the start of last year, win one, lose win etc etc. So far very inconsistant play from the Vipers early in the year. One night they look very strong and unbeatable, the next night, they play well at times and then dont look very good at all tonight. I know its early but I think its gut check time for alot of these kids. Kevin Kraus & Kyle Bigos both didnt have great games, both D-men had troubles all night.

Game Thoughts: (Salmon Arm)

Not sure if it was just how bad Vernon played but the Silverbacks looked very quick, deadly up front and played physical all game. This was not the same Salmon Arm team I saw in the Vipers home opener, a much improved hockey team since the opening night in the BCHL. The Silverbacks have a quick skating team, that moves the puck well. The line of Morrison, Desmet & Zengerle is very deadly. This game was over after the Backs 5th goal. This had to be the smallest and quietest crowd for a Vernon-Salmon Arm game at the Sunwace Center. Alot of empty blue seats.

Scratches:

Vernon:

Kellen Jones (Injured)
Trent Dorais
Nick Amies

Salmon Arm:

Zac Rasmussen (Suspended)
Levi Hantula

3 Stars:

1st Star: Mark Zengerle (2 Goals & 2 Assists)
2nd Star: Keenan Desmet (2 Goals & 2 Assists)
3rd Star: Conor Morrison (1 Goal & 3 Assists)

Vernon 3 Westside 1

Vernon 3 Westside 1

Was at tonights game as Vernon defeated Westside 3-1 in front of 2, 114 fans at the Wesbild Center.

1st Period: Kory Roy & Bryce Kakoske made there Viper debuts tonight. Vipers got the early jump on Westside laying the body on any chance they had, getting the puck in deep, cyclying well down low. Just 2 and a half mins into the game Cory Kane stepped over the blueline and wired a wrist shot high over the glove of former Express Goaltender, Kevin Jebson. Vernon kept the pressure on and 3 mins later Chris Crowell did all the work down low, keeping the puck along the boards, getting out front getting a shot on net, as the Vipers were being rewarded a powerplay, Crowell fed the puck into the coner for Viper newcomer Ryan DePape who would fire a shot from the corner and sneak through Jebsons pads as Vernon jumpaed ahead 2-0. This would be DePapes 1st BCHL Goal. Jebson looked very soft allowing two Goals on just 5 shots. Westside couldnt generate any offence as the Vipers looked very good carrying the better of the play within the first half of the 1st. Vernon was skating well and moving the puck well down low, getting some chances. The Warriors didnt record there first shot on goal till 7 and a half mins remaining in the period. Shortly after Ryan DePape & Brad Plumton would drop the gloves in a solid tilt. Plumton & DePape were having words all period before dropping the mits. This fight seemed to give the Warriors some life as they turned the game around getting the puck in deep but having all kinds of trouble hitting the net. Westside had some very close scoring chances down low but couldnt hit the net, missing on some great scoring chances. Westsides best scoring chance came with a quick wrap around from behind the Vernon goal but Hammond was quick getting over to the side of the post to just keep the puck out with the toe of his skate. The Vipers defence got caught a few times having troubles clearing the puck from there zone, wich resulted in a panic attack. Vernon was lucky the Warriors couldnt hit the net as this could have been a different score after the first period. Vernon was up 2-0 after 20 mins of play. Vipers outshot the Warriors 11-5.

2nd Period: A scrambly 2nd period with alot of powerplays and very little good scoring chances for either teams. Both teams seemed to have troubles making some clear passes breaking out from there own end. Vipers once again had troubles defensivly. With Vernon on the powerplay the Vipers moved the puck well down low, Jebson made the first save but couldnt handle the big rebound as Mike Collins jumped on the loose puck, and roofing it high over Jebson as the Vipers were now up 3-0 and in full control. Westside played not a very physical game, but was always in the faces of the Vipers either during or after the play. Vernon didnt lay back, giving it right back as some pushing & shoving took places after many whistles. Connor Jones was taking a beating all game, getting pounded any chance the Warriors got. Jones was hit hard and often on almost every shift. Vernons best chance to put away the Warriors came with a two man advantage but struggled getting shots towards the net as well as keeping the play in the offensive zone. Give the Warriors credit they really pressured the Vipers not giving them much room to move or shoot, as Westside did a solid job on the penalty kill, killing off both minors. It was actually the Warriors who had the better scoring chances, but Andrew Hammond robbed newcomer Tyler Krause with a big pad save in the crease, after Krause & D-man Justin Schultz went in on a two on one shorthanded. It didnt take long before the Warriors were rewarded with a two man advantage of there own, Westside really moves the puck well, getting off the one timer in a hurry. Andrew Hammond was the Vipers best penalty killer making 3-4 big saves down low in the crease keeping the puck out. Hammond made two back to back pad saves. Matt Betker was all alone at the side of the goal, the puck come through the crease, Betker had all day at a wide open net but waited way too long and then fired wide missing on a great scoring chance. Vernons penalty killers were very strong killing off both minors. Late in the 2nd the Vipers had another defensive letdown as Garrett Watson went in two on one, Watson decided to keep the puck and shoot, beating Hammond but ringing the puck off the crossbar with just 33 seconds remaining. Vernon excaped the period up 3-0 after 40 mins of play. Westside outshot Vernon 10-9.

3rd Period: Some good open flow to start the 3rd made for some back & forth hockey. Very few scoring chances as once again Vernon had yet another chance to put away the Warriors getting back to back powerplays but once again really struggled, getting very little shots. Midway through the 3rd Vernon sat back a little playing more of a defensive shutdown, as the Warriors carried the edge in play at times. Not many shots or great scoring chances at both ends with Westside still trying to get under the skin of the Vipers. One thing Westside didnt quit on was finishing there checks and always getting a glove in the face or a little tap at the back of the legs or a shot here or there, as the Vipers seemed to allow this, not giving back any kind of retaliation. Westside had back to back powerplays late in the period coming close on a few times but still couldnt seem to muster anything in close. Andrew Hammonds shutout bid was finally broken with just under 5 mins remaining as Ron Kelly made a nice pass over to Garrett Watson who beat Hammond on the powerplay, cutting the lead to 3-1. The Warriors would press late really rushing the puck up ice but failing to generate an offensive attack as the Vipers defence managed to clear the puck from there zone. With about a min and a half to go Kevin Jebson headed to the Warriors bench for the extra man, the Vipers would get the puck in deep and Braden Pimm had a great scoring chance but fired high and way over the empty net, as the clock ticked down Westside would run out of time as Vernon gets its first ever home win over the Warriors in three years. This was just the 3rd win ever against Westside, since the Warriors moved to the Okanagan Valley. Vernons only other two wins against Westside came last year in Westside and then last weekend in Westside. Warriors outshot the Vipers 8-6.

Top Players: (Vernon)

Former Westside Warrior & Surrey Eagle Goaltender Andrew Hammond played very well, especially in the 2nd period on the penalty kill. Hammond has been the biggest surprise so far this season for myself, I didnt think Hammond could or would be playing this well, but he has proved me wrong. Hammond has looked very solid in each Viper game he has played so far this early hockey season.

Cory Kane (1 Goal) Played well up front for Vernon. This kid has one of the best wrist shots I have ever seen.

Chris Crowell (1 Assist) Played a very hard nosed game, worked hard in the corners and made some real smart plays in the offensive zone.

Top Players: (Westside) Garrett Watson (1 Goal) A bigger kid who plays with an edge. Always getting his elbows up, getting under the skin of players, but works hard and plays hard. This kid has played very well in the two games against the Vipers so far. Watson has two Goals against Vernon. This kid has a cannon for a shot. Great scoring chance late in the 2nd ringing a shot off the post.

Kyle Singleton played well for the Warriors, always buzzing around the Viper net.

Tyler Miller may have seen alot of mins in the penalty box but was steady on the backend, getting in the face of many players.

Game Thoughts: (Vernon)

Vernon is now 2-0 against the Warriors. Played very well for the first half of the 1st, getting the early 2-0 lead really helped. Vipers could have put this game away during the 2nd but failed on many times struggling on the powerplay, not getting many shots. The Vipers move the puck around way too much, killing off most of there own PP. Vernon needs to work on the one timers as well as getting more shots towards the net while on the PP. Vipers struggled defensively for most of the night but did seem to get things together a little in the 3rd. Nice to see Vernon get back in the face of the Warriors, play with that bit of an edge, but still need to be a little more physical-rough. Connor Jones was being pushed-knocked around way too much, you cant let your top players get knocked-pushed around. Vipers need a little more toughness, cant be so soft. This is a big weekend with two games vs top rivals.

Game Thoughts: (Westside)

Going down 2-0 early seemed to deflate the hockey club, you need better goaltending from a veteran goaltender like Kevin Jebson. Jebson looked soft in the 1st and midway through the 2nd but did managae to get his game back and play well to finish the game. Warriors lost alot of scoring over the off season and it has showed, they just dont have that relentless forecheck us Viper fans are use to seeing over the last two seasons. Dont get me wrong Westside did play well but just lacked in the scoring department. Westside played hard, always is one of the hardest working hockey teams, no quit in Mark Howells team, like I said before they make you pay when you go into the corners or along the boards. They always have someone yapping in your ear, getting under your skin, a little wack here or a jab here, and always finishing there checks. This could have been a different game if Vernon didnt jump out to the quick two goal lead. Both teams struggled on the PP.

Scratches:

Vernon:

Kellen Jones (Injured)
Sahir Gill
Trent Dorais
Nick Amies

Westside:

Brendan Ellis
Brett Lyon
Devon Murtagh

3 Stars:

1st Star: Ryan DePape (1 Goal & 1 Assist)
2nd Star: Cory Kane (1 Goal)
3rd Star: Andrew Hammond

Vipers Land Hometown Talent:

This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:

Vipers land hometown talent

By Graeme Corbett - Vernon Morning StarPublished: September 18, 2008 6:00 PM

It took a mammoth long distance phone bill and an elaborate set of trades to ship Bryce Kakoske just one hour up Highway 97. The end result is the 18-year-old winger will finally play in his hometown with the Vernon Vipers.Kakoske is the younger brother of Viper grad, Ryan, but you wouldn’t guess that by watching them abuse one another in B.C. Hockey League action last season, when Bryce played with the Westside Warriors.Viper fans can probably recall some heated battles along the boards, and in front of the net between the two at Wesbild Centre.Vipers’ GM/head coach Mark Ferner certainly can.“He’s always been good against us. There was certainly no love lost there (between Bryce and Ryan). They put the family thing aside, and that just shows the character of both these kids.”Ferner had been discussing Kakoske with Warriors’ head coach/director of player personnel Mark Howell over the past few months, but couldn’t reach an agreement.Ferner thought he’d lost out on Kakoske altogether when the Warriors dealt the Vernon product to the Surrey Eagles, in exchange for defenceman Michael Quinn.But Ferner got on the horn and ended up orchestrating a four-team deal to bring Kakoske to the Vipers’ den.To get him, Ferner first had to deal rookie forward Brett Switzer and future considerations to the Spruce Grove Saints of the Alberta Junior Hockey League in exchange for forward Danny McSween.The Snakes then dealt McSween to the Eagles in exchange for Kakoske and futures.Additionally, Surrey sent McSween to the Quesnel Millionaires to land forward Christopher Santiago.Kakoske played two seasons with the Warriors, and in 52 games last season, the speedy winger recorded 18 goals and 22 assists for 40 points.“Bryce has got great puck skills and he sees the ice very well,” said Ferner. “We know what he can do, and we just hope he can do those things for us. It’s always a positive when you can bring back a local, talented kid.”Added Kakoske: “It (the trade) just kind of happened out of nowhere. I knew that something had to happen and that there were going to be changes, but I didn’t know it was going to be me.“I always got up against Vernon, it being my home town. I’m just going to work hard and hopefully put a few pucks in the net. I always work hard, and that’s what I’ll bring to this team.”Kakoske’s first game with the Vipers just happens to be against the Warriors, tonight at Wesbild (7:00). Considering he never eased up on his own brother, it’s a safe bet he won’t spare his former teammates.The Snakes then travel to Salmon Arm Saturday night to face the SilverBacks.“He just wants to win,” said Vipers’ captain Chris Crowell, of Kakoske. “That’s the best thing about him – he competes hard every night. Everybody knows what his brother was all about for three years here, and he’s the same thing.”Kakoske practised with the Vipers for the first time Tuesday, and then on Wednesday, when the players were expecting a dryland training session, Ferner surprised them with an outing to Bushwackers Paintball for some team bonding.Ferner said with all the trades – Switzer, Brian Elser and Dallas Goodrunning were all recently shipped to other teams – over the past two weeks, he thought it was important to let his squad unwind with a bit of fun.After the early going, Crowell and Braden Pimm seemed to have come up with some unique strategies – legal and otherwise – on the course.“Me and Pimmer were untouchable out there,” deadpanned Crowell. “I don’t want to sugarcoat it – we were the best.”More seriously, Crowell added: “It’s good to get everybody out here and get away from the rink for a day. It’s an easier atmosphere to get more comfortable with each other.”

Thoughts On Vipers-Eagles Trade:

This is a huge pickup by the Vipers. Bryce will add scoring & his hard work ethic to the Vipers roster. I had heard rumors over the summer that Bryce had asked Westside for a trade to Vernon. You knew the Warriors would never make a trade with the Vipers, so Bryce was traded last week to Surrey. Bryce never reported to the Eagles, so you had to guess he had asked for a trade to Vernon once again.... well the deals done. Im very thrilled to see Bryce back in Vernon playing for his hometown Vipers. Bryce once played with the Vipers 3 seasons ago as an "AP" I will admit I wasnt overlly thrilled with Bryce as a young 16 yr old but he did improve in his first season with Westside and then was the Warriors 6th leading scorer putting up 40 pts in just his 2nd BCHL season. Kakoske always played the Vipers tough. It was great watching both Kakoske brothers battle hard against one another. Great to see another local boy on the team, welcome back home Bryce! Bryce now gets to play his first game as a Viper vs his former team, this Friday as the Warriors come to town. This will add some fuel to an already heated rivarly between these two teams. I wish Brett Switzer all the best in Spruce Grove. Brett was recruited by the Vipers this season and was brought in listed as a goal scorer. Brett played well in Training camp but didnt really hit the score sheet in this early hockey season.

Vernon-Surrey Trade:

This is on the Vipers website:

September 16 2008

VIPERS ACQUIRE LOCAL TALENT

The Vernon Vipers are pleased to announce that they have acquired the rights to Bryce Kakoske in exchange for Brett Switzer. Bryce Kakoske is the younger brother of former Viper Ryan and is extremely excited to be returning home to play in front of his hometown fans. Bryce has played the last two seasons for the Westside Warriors. In 52 games last season Bryce had 18 goals and 22 assists for 40 points. He will be looked to add scoring as well experience. The Vipers would also like to wish Brett the best of luck and thank him for his time spent with the organization.


This is on the BCHL website:

16-Sep-08 The Vernon Vipers Hockey Club transfer the playing rights of Brett Switzer (90)(G) and future considerations to the Spruce Grove Saints Hockey Club of the AJHL in exchange for the playing rights of Danny McSween (89)

16-Sep-08 The Surrey Eagles Hockey Club transfers the playing rights of Bryce Kakoske (90)(F) to the Vernon Vipers Hockey Club in exchange for the recently acquired playing rights of Danny McSween (89)(F) and future considerations.

Spruce Kings Find Vipers Flat:

This is in the Morning Star Newspaper:

Kings find Vipers flat

By Kevin Mitchell - Vernon Morning StarPublished: September 16, 2008 7:00 PM

Outside the Vernon Viper dressing room, one young fan approached Chris Crowell and asked if he was Andrew Hammond. Once informed of who was who, the fan innocently asked, "Did you play tonight?"Crowell smiled, as he put on his dress shoes, and walked away, a frustrated captain of a team which had just giftwrapped a 3-1 victory to the Prince George Spruce Kings in B.C. Hockey League play before 1,954 stunned eyewitnesses. The young fan's question could have been put to most of the Vipers Saturday night at Wesbild Centre."It was a pretty frustrating game," said Crowell. "We have the makings to be a very good team this year. I think everybody believes that, but you just don't lace on your skates, and go out there and they give you the two points. You have to go out and earn it, and tonight the preparation wasn't there, and it cost us two points."The Spruce Kings, who lost 6-3 to the previously winless Merritt Centennials Sunday afternoon, mustered just 14 shots on the Vipers, who showed all the jump of a showdog stricken with the flu. For most of the night, it was hard to tell which team had taken a nine-hour bus ride, and the Viper intensity level came in at about a meagre two out of 10.Vernon took just eight penalty minutes, including a double minor for spearing to Braden Pimm with Prince George up 2-1. Rookie Michael Nardi made it 3-1 on the powerplay with seven seconds left in the second period, and it was pretty much gave over.The Vipers outshot the Spruce Kings 5-3 in the third period as fans kept waiting for some emotion, a big hit, a crash to the net, anything to ignite the offence."It's early which is good, but at the same time, those could be the two points that catch up to you at the end of the year when you're in the hunt for whatever place you're looking for," said Crowell. "I don't know what it was tonight. It was a bad effort, definitely one of the worst I've been a part of. It was embarrassing. We got outplayed by an average team. If we want to start calling ourselves a contender, we better start acting like it."The Spruce Kings celebrated the surprise win with the usual post-game rugby song. The Vipers, meanwhile, listened to their coaches for about 15 minutes."I'm pretty happy," said Prince George captain Zach Davies. "That's a good start for us, and I think that's really key with a young team like ours. We've got a lot of solid kids in there. I think we're going to have a good year. We're pretty optimistic about it, and pretty excited."Davies, who drew the assist on Nardi's goal, expected a fierce battle from the Vipers after a pair of easy opening-weekend wins over the Cents."I thought it was going to be a good test for our team. Our first two games against Merritt were so-so. We didn't play very well but we came out with big wins so I didn't know how the younger guys would react against a team that came hard like Vernon."Getting the lead was a key because we were reeling in the first period. We broke out, we got the goal and then from there on, we held our own and played well I thought. I think the first one knocked the wind out of them a bit, and from there, they were trying to play catch-up."Towering Minnesota product Sean Ambrosie swiped an errant pass at the Prince George blueline, and skated in alone on goalie Mark Segal, making a sweet deke at 2:17 of the second period.Veteran Sam Muchulla netted his fourth of the season three minutes later, roofing a wrister from in tight, with Mike Collins off for hooking.John Digness got the Viper goal with eight minutes left in the second period, assists going to Rob Short and Kyle Bigos.Right winger Ryan DePape made his Viper debut after a four-year stint in the Western Hockey League, playing on a line with Collins and Connor Jones. The trio were creative, but couldn't get a bounce. DePape wasn't about to call the Crisis Line after the loss."You lose some sleep at night losing games like those, but at least it's early in the season and we can learn from our mistakes now. We can't let those ones get away anymore."On his play, after playing in just one WHL exhibition game weeks ago: "I felt not bad. I started getting into the groove of things. I'm close...We had opportunities and it was frustrating. We found each other a few times, we just didn't have the finish that we needed tonight."DePape, a Winnipeg product whose grandparents just happened to be visiting the Okanagan, and took in the game, will bring the Vipers loads of upside in leadership, experience and offence. He doesn't know a soul on the team, but hardly feels like a rookie."Guys are guys wherever you go. There's a good group of guys here. You just get to know the names is all. I thought it was pretty good (pace) out there. Not too far off the Dub."The 2-1-0-1 Vipers, who rested Kellen Jones (slight injury), host the Westside Warriors Friday night, and then visit the Salmon Arm SilverBacks Saturday night. The Quesnel Millionaires clipped the SilverBacks 3-2 Saturday for a weekend sweep.

Vernon-Drayton Valley Trade:

This was in todays Morning Star Newspaper:

September 14 2008

Vipers Trade New York Product:

The Vipers traded New York product Brian Elser to the Drayton Valley Thunder of the Alberta Junior League for future considerations (cash) and a player to be named next year.“We felt he (Elser) was going to be a good player, but we had a chance to get a very good 20-year-old,” said Ferner. “It was a tough thing to do because you never want to trade your recruits, but I have a responsibility to put the best team on the ice I can.”Ferner scouted Elser, 18, at the U.S. Midget championships in Buffalo last spring. He helped Shattuck St. Mary’s win two national titles.

Prince George 3 Vernon 1

Prince George 3 Vernon 1

Was at tonights game as Prince George defeated Vernon 3-1 in front of 1,954 fans at the Wesbild Center.

1st Period: The Vipers got off to a quick start, getting the puck in deep and really having the better of the play the first 5 mins or so. Vernon moved the puck well, making some quick passes setting up some real nice scoring chances. Kevin Genoe looked solid all period making some big saves keeping the Vipers off the board. John Digness had the biggest hit of the night, laying out Wes McLeod with a thundering hit in the PG zone. Digness was also robbed by Genoe on one of many Vernon scoring chances. The Vipers looked very good down low all period. The Spruce Kings finally got the puck deep into the Vernon zone but managed very little pressure. Captain Chris Crowell made a nice move at the circle and then wired a shot off the crossbar as the play really opened up, a very quick pace 1st with loads of action coming in the PG zone. A very entertaining quick period with very little stopages in play. The Spruce Kings had a bit of a late charge but couldnt find the back of the net. Both teams were playing physical. It was scoreless after 20 mins of play. Vernon outshot Prince George 9-5.

2nd Period: Just 2 mins into the period Kyle Bigos went for the body, missing the puck, Tyson Hall made a nice pass up to, Sean Ambrosie who was being chased down by Steven Weinstein, Ambrosie put a nice move on Mark Segal, then sliding the puck behind him to give the Spruce Kings the 1-0 lead. Segal was making his BCHL debut in net for the Vipers. Just 4 mins later with PG on the powerplay, Sam Muchalla beat Segal gloveside putting Prince George up 2-0. A much more scrambly period with not much flow at either ends of the rink. Vipers battled back trying to get on the scoreboard, throwing lots of pucks towards the goal, but once again Genoe come up with some big saves. Chris Crwowell would finally get Vernon on the board, after a nice pass from Rob Short. Crowell skated down the left wing and then wired a shot from the circle top shelf over Genoes glove, cutting the lead to 2-1. This was Crowells first goal of the season. Both teams had chances as the puck seemed to be bouncing alot in the 2nd. Vernon had the better scoring chances it was Prince George just scored on there opportunities. Late in the period Braden Pimm was given 4 mins for spearing, & it cost Vernon. With just 6 seconds remaining both Vernon D-men went to the back of the goal to chase down Zach Davies, Davies made a nice pass out front to a wide open Michael Nardi who beat Segal, putting PG up 3-1. The Vipers outshot the Spruce Kings 10-6.

3rd Period: Vernon killed off the remainder of Pimms 4 min minor but now down two goals, couldnt seem to generate any offence. A real sloppy 3rd with very little flow. Prince George sat back, got the puck in deep and then stood the Vipers up at the line. The Vipers just couldnt get anything going, some poor passes, pucks were getting caught up in players skates, guys were overskating the puck, it was just one of those periods. Vernon also looked tired come the 3rd. Give the Spruce Kings full credit they played a very defensive period not giving the Vipers any room or space to move or create any chances. In the 2nd half of the 3rd Vernon would get three straight powerplays but failed, not scoring on there chanes. The Vipers were having trouble getting shots off, moving the puck around alot, but very little shots towards the net. PG looked very good on the PK not giving the Vipers any room to create any chances. Vernons best scoring chance, came late when Connor Jones tipped a shot off the crossbar with just under 5 mins to go. It just wasnt Vernons night as on there last powerplay chance with 2 mins remaining the team left Mark Segal on the ice, instead of getting him to the bench for the extra attacker. It wasnt until 1:25 left when Segal went to the bench for the extra man, but even then Vernon struggled down low, not getting off a shot. Prince George will defeat Vernon 3-1 moving to 3-0. The Vipers outshot the Spruce Kings 5-3.

Top Players: (Vernon)

Cody Ikkala saw alot of icetime, playing a very well defensive game tonight.

John Digness looked very strong up front. Had two real good scoring chances, played physical all night. Digness has really stepped up his play this year.

Ryan DePape looked good in his Vipers debut. A very big kid who likes to pass and is very good at it. This kid has eyes in the back of his head, making three no look behind the back passes tonight.

Top Players: (Prince George)

Kevin Genoe looked very solid all night. Kept the Spruce Kings in the game during the 1st & 2nd periods. Had a pretty easy time in the 3rd. Has a real nice glovehand, as well as quick on his feet.

Sam Muchalla (1 Goal) played excellent up front. Worked hard all game.

Sean Ambrosie (1 Goal) looked very strong up front. This kid drives to the net, good hands.

Game Thoughts: (Vernon)

Vipers looked very good in the 1st getting lots of shots & scoring chances on Genoe but couldnt find the back of the net. Played good in the 2nd but gave up three goals, two on the PP. They battled back cutting the lead to one but giving up the 4 min minor cost them, allowing PG to score with just 6 seconds to go. For a team that was down by three goals, they sure didnt look like it come the 3rd, looking very tired and unorganised. Very sloppy period and only getting 5 shots on net didnt help. Vernon had three straight powerplays in the 2nd half of the 3rd and couldnt manage many shots. Wasnt a very pretty 3rd to watch.

Game Thoughts: (Prince George)

The Spruce Kings come out of the 1st lucky as Vernon could have easily scored two or three goals, but they didnt. Genoe kept them in the game, giving them a chance to win. They battled hard in the 2nd getting two early goals and then scored late in the 2nd to basically seal the deal. Not a very skilled team, they didnt get many great scoring chances as they were outplayed for most of the first two periods, give them credit, they scored on there chances and relied on Genoe to bail them out. A very greasy road win, played a very solid defensive 3rd period, shutting down the Vipers offensive attack.

Scratches:

Vernon:

Kevin Kraus
Cole Ikkala
Kellen Jones

Prince George:

Joe Becker
Colten Derickson
Dan Correale

3 Stars:

1st Star: Kevin Genoe
2nd Star: John Digness
3rd Star: Sam Muchalla (1 Goal)

Vernon 4 Westside 2

Vernon 4 Westside 2

Was at tonights game as Vernon defeated Westside 4-2 in front of 1,378 fans at Royal Le-Page Place.

1st Period: The Vipers come out hitting to start tonights game laying out the first few solid checks of the night. Within the first few seconds Vernon would jump on an early powerplay and it didnt take long before John Digness had a great scoring chance in close but was stopped by Devon Murtagh. Westside would kill off the minor and then shortly after go on a PP of there own. The Vipers managed to kill off the minor with some solid goaltending of Andrew Hammond. Some good flow to start the game with both teams getting some chances, alot of pushing & shoving after each whistle as the Warriors were by far the more fiesty team tonight. Sahir Gill, Trent Dorais & Nick Amies all played there first games of the season tonight in Westside, Gill & Amies both playing in there first BCHL games. On Gills first shift of the game, showed some good hustle, getting the puck over the line and then driving towards the net, getting a quick shot off, Murtagh made the save, while going down on the play, Gill kept banging away at the loose puck before sliding inbehind Murtagh getting his first career BCHL goal as the Vipers were up 1-0 just 5 mins into the 1st. Both teams played well but it was the Vipers who had the better scoring chances in the period. Vernon would go up 2-0 at the midway mark as Nick Amies made a real sharpe play to keep the puck in at the blueline, chipping it in down low as Mike Collins made a nice pass over to Connor Jones who beat Murtagh. Murtagh likes to come out and play the puck alot, really likes handling the puck outside of the crease, but had some troubles letting out big rebounds and looking shaky at times throughout tonights game. On the other end of the rink Andrew Hammond looked very solid-confident between the Vernon nets. Hammond made a real nice pad save keeping the Warriors off the board, when Jordan Gagne was stopped on Westsides best scoring chance of the period. Westside was the more grittier team getting in the face of many Vernon players, after each whistle the Warriors were getting there gloves & elbows up. Vernon on the other hand shyed away from the gritty play, looking a little soft on some shifts. A very entertaining period with the Vipers getting the better scoring chances. Vernon was up 2-0 after 20 mins of play. Shots were even 14 each.

2nd Period: The Warriors come out strong to start the 2nd really skating hard, playing with that edge. Just like last weekend in Salmon Arm the Vipers were having all kinds of trouble in the 2nd clearing the puck. Give Westside full credit, they played with that very aggresive forecheck Viper fans are all use too. The Warriors carried most of the play in the first half as Vernon was hemmed in there own zone. Once again Andrew Hammond had to be sharpe coming up with a few nice saves. Hammond made three big saves one after another after a bad clearing attempt from behind the Vipers net. Westside played physical and in your face hockey really taking it too the Vipers who almost sat back a little getting caught coughing up the puck on many times. Vernon would get lucky getting a break as Cory Kane broke in down the left wing and blasting a shot high over Murtagh putting Vernon up 3-0. This was a bad break for Westside after having the better of the play in the Vipers zone but not being able to beat Hammond. This goal seemed to give the Vipers some life as they managed to get the play out of there own zone and get some of the action in the Warriors end for a few mins. With under 5 mins remaining Vernon would get into penalty trouble taking some undicaplined minors and it cost them as Warrior Captain Ron Kelly battled hard in the slot and with Hammond down and out, Kelly slide the puck along the ice, wich found the back of the net getting Westside on the board, cutting the lead to 3-1. With the Warriors on yet another powerplay just 30 some seconds after getting there first goal of the night, Kelly yet again would set a nice pass over Garrett Watson who stepped over the line and then wired a shot pass Hammond as Westside was right back in the game, 3-2 Vernon with still 3 mins to go. The Vipers looked very sloppy for most of the 2nd. The Vipers would yet again go back to the penalty kill but managed to excape the 2nd and head to the dressing room up 3-2. Westside outshot Vernon 9-8.

3rd Period: Westside started the 3rd with 45 seconds left in the powerplay but the Vipers would kill off the minor. The Vipers would get the puck in deep and take control down low over the next few mins with some great forecheck along the end boards. Ryan Santana & Cory Kane put on a clinic down low, Kane made a nice move around the Westside D-man, dropping the puck off for Santana who wired a wrist high past Murtagh, as Vernon regained there two goal lead now up 4-2 just 3 mins into the 3rd. A much better-stronger performance by the Vipers in the 3rd as they stepped up there play, playing with a bit more physical presence as well as tighting up defensivly. Westside couldnt seem to manage that great forecheck they had going for them in the 2nd as the Vipers seemed to not allow much traffic through the neutral zone. Vernon had a great scoring chance with a two on one but Devon Murtagh come up with a huge pad save keeping the puck out. Murtagh was called apon to make another huge pad save robbing John Digness on a two on one. The Warriors did manage to get a few good scoring chances but former Warriors goaltender Andrew Hammond looked very solid all night. Both teams had a few powerplay chances but couldnt find the back of the net. John Digness then was fed a pass in the slot, putting some unreal moves on Murtagh, Murtagh was down & out and on his back as Digness had a wide open net but rang the puck off the post missing a wide open net. Kellen Jones left the game late in the 3rd heading to the dressing room, but would return to the Vipers bench late in the game but didnt see a shift. Late in the game with about a minute & a half remaining Westside tried to get Murtagh on the bench for the extra man, but couldnt get the puck in deep. With just 37 seconds left Mutagh finally would get to the bench as the Warriors would get the extra man out, but couldnt get any kind of an offensive attack going as the Vipers would defeat the Warriors 4-2. Vernon outshot Westside 11-7.

Top Players: (Vernon)

Former Westside Goaltender Andrew Hammond faced his former team for the first time, looking very solid-confident between the pipes. So far in just 3 games this season Hammond has looked very solid for the Vipers. Hammond played very well in the 1st.

Cory Kane (1 Goal & 1 Assist) Played a big game up front. Kane put on some unreal moves all night.

His linemate Ryan Santana (1 Goal) also looked very strong down low. Santana is very hard to fight off the puck along the boards. Showed alot of hustle all night.

John Digness was by far Vernons best player. Digness has really stepped up his play this season and has looked very strong in all 3 Viper games. Digness was robbed twice in close. Saw alot of icetime on the penalty kill, worked very hard, played with alot of hustle.

Sahir Gill (1 Goal) Played in his first career BCHL Game as well as scoring his first career BCHL Goal. Played on a regular basis looking very good in close. Has some very nice hands down low.

Trent Dorais was another kid who played with alot of hustle, worked hard all game.

Nick Amies who also played in his first BCHL game tonight, played really well for only being 16 yrs old.

Top Players: (Westside)

Captain Ron Kelly (1 Goal & 1 Assist) Looked very strong up front. Played with alot of emotion, was all over the ice all night.

Garrett Watson (1 Goal) played with an edge and physical presence. Was in the face of many Viper players. A big kid who dosnt back away from the corners or rough going. Was always yapping away or getting his gloves up in the face of some Vipers.

Tyler Krause saw alot of icetime, very quick with some nice moves. Reads the ice well. This kid is going to be a solid player in the this league.

Game Thoughts: (Vernon)

Vipers played 40 mins tonight taking the 2nd period off. Looked good in the 1st & 3rd periods. Was good to see the boys regroup after a very sloppy 2nd and come out strong to start the 3rd scoring early, regaining there two goal lead. Vipers looked quick up front but had troubles on the backend, clearing the puck out from there own end. Vipers turned over the puck way too many times tonight in there own end, really need to tighten up in there own end. Had many good scoring chances. Vernon was pushed around most of the night, the Vipers need to play more physical and finish all checks. This team looks good up front but was way too soft tonight, got pushed around on many ocasions. Vernon looked intiminated when it came to the physical play-rough stuff. Overall a pretty good game to watch.

Game Thoughts: (Westside)

The Warriors played good in the 1st but couldnt beat Hammond. Really stepped up there play in the 2nd coming out strong, really taking it to the Vipers for most of the period. Looked very strong on the powerplay. This team plays and is much better when they play with that aggresive forecheck-in your face hockey. Westside really likes to play with an edge, get in your face after the whistles. Alot of pushing & shoving going on after each whistle. The Warriors are a very gritty team who isnt afraid to back down in the corners. Westside couldnt score on there opportunities when needed too. They announced the attendance at 1,378 but the place was half empty, a very quiet crowd who makes very little noise. Penticton Vees Head Coach Fred Harbinson was at tonights game. Saw many scouts also at tonights game.

Scratches:

Vernon:

Kevin Kraus
Kory Roy
Ryan DePape

Westside:

Brendan Ellis

3 Stars:

1st Star: Cory Kane (1 Goal & 1 Assist)
2nd Star: Ron Kelly (1 Goal & 1 Assist)
3rd Star: Andrew Hammond

Thoughts On Elser Being Traded:

The Vipers have now lost two great kids along with two solid hockey players due to the import rule. Last weekend the Vipers lost backup Goaltender, Ryan Faragher to the import rule, Faragher then joined the Westside Warriors. Now today the Vipers lost Brian Elser due to the import rule, due to aquiring former WHLer Ryan DePape. I was very impressed with the play of Elser at the Vipers training camp. Elser worked very hard, always shwoing alot of hustle in trying to make this yrs team. Elser looked very good on a line with Braden Pimm & Chris Crowell. Always played with an edge along with having some good size. Its too bad this kid had to be traded.... A kid coming from New York all the way to Vernon is now on his way to Drayton Valley. All the best with the Thunder Brian! You will be missed. Best of luck up in Alberta.

Thoughts On Aquiring DePape:

Im looking forward to watching DePape play tonight in Westside. At 6'2 and 216 lbs I really like his size and Jr experience. With being a former captain, he will add alot of leadership on & off the ice. Mark Ferner basically picked up Greg Beller last year for nothing as he added alot to the Vipers lineup, will DePape do the same this year? I think with his size and toughness-hard work heres a kid Vernon was missing last year, these kind of kids are warriors come Playoff time. So far I think this will be a good addition to the Vipers roster. It will be interesting now to see who the odd man out is? The Vipers have 25 kids, so two have to go. It will be interesting to see if Ferner makes any other moves soon.

Vipers Sign Ex-WHLer:

This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:

Vipers sign ex-WHLer

By Kevin Mitchell - Vernon Morning StarPublished: September 11, 2008 6:00 PM

It’s only September, but Mark Ferner is already thinking about the playoff trenches.The second-year Vernon Vipers head coach/GM has signed four-year Western Hockey League right winger Ryan DePape. The 20-year-old will play tonight as the Snakes visit the Westside Warriors in a B.C. Hockey League game at Royal LePage Place.DePape, a 6-foot-2, 216-pound Winnipeg product, became a WHL refugee when the Pats released him and former Kelowna Rocket Kirt Hill, also 20. Each WHL club can carry three overagers.“He competes hard and he’s another big body who you want to go to war with,” said Ferner. “Plus, he’s a pretty skilled guy, too.”DePape was captain of the Prince Albert Raiders as an 18-year-old, compiling 25 goals and 56 points in 62 games. He pocketed 7-12-19 with the Raiders last year before being traded to Regina, where he added 3-3-6 in the final 27 games.“He has had decent numbers (12 points in 28 games) in the playoffs all four years,” said Ferner.Defenceman Victor Bartley, centre Scott Doucet and left-winger Michael MacAngus won Regina’s three overage spots. Doucet and DePape were teammates for three seasons with Prince Albert before they were reunited last season in Regina.“It’s mostly a down feeling,” Doucet told the Regina Leader-Post. “I played with Papy for most of my career. Seeing him that upset was definitely a shock to the system but it’s part of the game. I’m definitely happy at the same time that I get to stick around. There were six real good players in the mix. I knew I had to come in and work my tail off to get a spot. I was fully aware (of the situation). It was tight but I’m definitely happy to come out on top.”DePape plays with an edge, racking up 328 penalty minutes in regular-season WHL action.

My Thoughts On Releasing Faragher:

Solid pickup for Westside. I was very impressed with Ryan Faragher during the Vipers training camp & pre season games. Im guessing Faragher was only cut due to the import rule, its too bad cause this kid looks very good. Very quick on his feet, looks confident and plays his position well. I was hoping he was going to be Vernons #1 Goaltender this year, as Andrew Hammond still has to prove me wrong. I also dont know anything on backup Goaltender Mark Segal, other then getting cut by the Vancouver Giants. 17 yrs old with no Jr Experience.... May look like Hammond could get most of the work load this year. I didnt think it was going to take someone long to pick up this kid, with him going to the Warriors, games between Vernon-Westside could be interesting. Sure hope this dosnt come back to bite the Vipers. Best of luck in Westside Ryan!

Warriors Aquire Faragher:

This was in todays Morning Star Newspaper:

Warriors Aquire Faragher:

September 7 2008

Ryan Faragher has joined the Westside Warriors. Faragher (13-17-2), who posted a 3.71 GAA. and .896 save percentage with the Fort Frances Junior Sabres of the Superior International Junior Hockey League last season, tried out for the Vernon Vipers but was a late cut after the Vipers brought in Mark Segal, who was cut by the Vancouver Giants.

Salmon Arm 5 Vernon 4 (Overtime)

Salmon Arm 5 Vernon 4 (Overtime)

Was at tonights Silverbacks home opener as Salmon Arm defeated Vernon 5-4 in Overtime in front of 1,464 fans at the Sunwave Center.

1st Period: A very quick fast pace start to the game with lots of flow and action at both ends of the rink. Vernons best scoring chance came when Cory Kane put a nice move around the Salmon Arm D-man, and then wired a wrist shot from the top of the circle just missing the top corner by inches. The Silverbacks come to play tonight, looking much better & stronger over last nights 4-1 loss in Vernon. The Backs really turned up the aggresive play at both ends of the rink, wich seemed to keep the Vipers Defence back on there heels, as the Vernon Defence was having troubles in there own end. The Vipers couldnt seem to get the puck out, making some soft passes up the middle or being careless coughing up the puck many times. Zac Rasmussen had Salmon Arms best scoring chance when he snuck down the right wing and just fired his shot a little high over the top corner. The Vipers would open the scoring at the 12 min mark after Steven Weinstein made a nice long pass up the middle, feeding a wide open Braden Pimm, who went in all alone on the breakaway and firing his shot high over Bryan Gillis's glove. It didnt take long for the Backs to tie the game up, around 4 mins later with Salmon Arm on the PP Conor Morrison beat Andrew Hammond. Vernon had one powerplay chance but really struggled, as the Silverbacks played very aggresive attacking the Vernon point, not giving them much room to shoot. Vernons Defence was caught a few times in the 1st getting caught on the pinch, wich resulted in way too many odd man rushes coming back the other way. Late in the period Ryan Santana did all the work, keeping the puck in at the line and then used his upper body strength to power his way througha crowd, making a nice pass over to John Diggness who beat Gillis high as Vernon jumped ahead 2-1. A very entertaining 1st period. Vipers were up 2-1 after 20 mins of play. Vernon outshot Salmon Arm 9-6.

2nd Period: Another good start to the period with good flow as both teams carried the play at times. Both teams looked very even up to this point but it didnt take long before the Backs turned the game around with some heavy forecheck deep in the Vipers zone. Kevin Kraus couldnt get the puck out, wich resulted in a turnover. Travis Statchuk beat Hammond up high tying the game 2-2. The Vipers didnt seem to show the skill they played with last night, it seemed they were having troubles with the Silverbacks very aggresive play. The Backs 2nd goal seemed to generate the offence as Salmon Arm stepped up there play carrying the play for the next 5-6 mins but couldnt take the lead after Andrew Hammond played well, looking confident. Travis Briard had a great scoring chance but missed a wide open net, after being alone at the side of the net. A pass come through the crease and Briard just fired wide. Just after the midway mark Vernon would get a two man advantage and it didnt take long for them to re-take the lead. After some nice passing, Steve Tresierra wired a shot from the point, beating Gillis as Vernon jumped ahead 3-2. Salmon Arm would kill off the other minor after some solid penalty killing. A very back & forth period with chances at either ends of the rink. With under a min remaining Steve Tresierra's point shot was blocked at the blueline, Three Silverbacks come back the other way, with Tresierra trying to get back into the play, it was a race for the puck and in the end, Mark Zengerle won the race, as Hammond was going down, Zengerle beat Hammond high over the glove to tie the game with just 42 seconds left. This goal didnt seem to faze the Vipers, as on there next rush up ice, Connor Jones made a nice pass up ice to Kellen Jones, who then fed a sweet pass across the crease and found a wide open Mike Collins who beat Gillis with just 5 seconds remaining. Gillis had no chance on the goal. Collins would get his first career BCHL Goal after some nice hustle on the play. Vernon was up 4-3 after 40 mins of play. The Silverbacks outshot the Vipers 13-8.

3rd Period: It didnt take the Silverbacks long to tie the game once again. Just 5 mins into the 3rd after some nice passing from Conor Morrison & Keenan Desmet who fed a wide open Mark Zengerle who beat Hammond scoring on a wide open net. Salmon Arm had the edge in play for a good 5-6 mins after tying the game, But then Vernon now got the edge in play back, and it was the Vipers who turned up the aggresive forecheck, wich seemed to work as the Backs Defence was now the ones having troubles getting the puck out of there own end. Most of the remainder of the 2nd was played in the Silverbacks zone. Vernon did a good job of not giving up many shots playing better on the backend. Vipers did carry the better of the play but really didnt get many great scoring chances. Salmon Arms breakout was very solid all night, using there speed and long pass up the side boards, seemed to work everytime catching the Vernon D-Men off guard. Vernons best scoring chance came late with just 12 seconds remaining, Connor Jones had the puck behind the Backs goal, Connor made a nice pass to the side of the net where Kellen Jones then couldnt raise the puck but did get a shot off, Gillis was there making a big pad save to keep the game tied 4-4. If Kellen could have raised the puck, this game would have been over. The game was tied 4-4 after 60 mins of play. Vernon outshot Salmon Arm 8-4.

Overtime: It didnt take the Backs long to end tonights hockey game. Just 1:41 into the extra period on just there 2nd rush into the Vipers zone, the puck went into the corners, where Colin Lidster made a nice pass out front, where Zac Rasmussen was left alone in the slot, who beat Hammond high over the glove for the OT winner, as the Salmon Arm bench exploded pouring onto the ice.

Top Players: (Vernon)

Cody Ikkala played a solid game on the Vipers backend. Ikkala looked very confident and played solid defensivly.

Steve Tresierra (1 Goal) also looked strong on the Vernon blueline. Ryan Santana (1 Assist) looked very strong up front. Worked very hard, played with alot of grit and hustle all game. Real solid down low with the puck, hard to fight off the puck.

Andrew Hammond didnt have to stand on his head but played well. John Digness (1 Goal) Played his 2nd strong game in a row.

Top Players: (Salmon Arm)

Mark Zengerle (2 Goals & 1 Assist) was by far the Backs best player tonight. Scored two nice goals. Looked very strong up front.

Zac Rasmussen (1 Goal) also looked good up front. Conor Morrison (1 Goal & 2 Assists) also played very solid, a great two way player.

Bryan Gillis didnt have to make many hard saves, but did play well. Matt Grassi logged alot of icetime, played a great defensive game for the Silverbacks.

Game Thoughts: (Vernon)

The Vipers played well but I thought didnt show that skill they played with last night. They didnt get nearly as many good scoring chances as last night too. Had troubles in there own end clearing the puck as well as on the breakout. Salmon Arms very aggresive forecheck did have something to do with that. Vipers had the lead for the whole game until Overtime. They just couldnt seem to hold a lead or get that two goal lead and try to put Salmon Arm away. Struggled on the PP tonight.

Game Thoughts: (Salmon Arm)

After four straight meetings the Backs get there first win over Vernon this year. You knew the Silverbacks would come out with a better performance compared to last nights 4-1 loss. I was impressed with Salmon Arms aggresive forecheck as well as there breakout. A very quick team wich really likes to get the puck to the winger, drive wide towards the net, and then have a trailor drive to the slot, and pick up any pass coming out front or rebounds. The Backs scored two goals on plays like these tonight. The Backs showed more skill in tonights game. Overall a very entertaining hockey game, good flow with lots of back & forth action.

Scratches:

Vernon:

Sahir Gill
Trent Dorais
Kory Roy
Nick Amies

Salmon Arm:

Greg Noyes
Sam Mitchell

3 Stars:

1st Star: Mark Zengerle (2 Goals & 1 Assist)
2nd Star: Ryan Santana (1 Assist)
3rd Star: Zac Rasmussen (1 Goal)

Vernon 4 Salmon Arm 1

Vernon 4 Salmon Arm 1

Was at tonights Vipers Home Opener as Vernon defeated Salmon Arm 4-1 in front of 2,418 fans at the Wesbild Center.

Tonights Viper player introductions has to be the best intro-players entrance the Vipers have ever done in the 20 plus years I have been watching Junior Hockey in Vernon. The Vernon Vipers were carried out onto the ice in the teams opening ceremonies in the back of the Vernon RCMP pickup trucks with the lights flashing as they introduced each player. Then a swat team member come shooting down a rope from the rafters, the officer then ran to a RCMP van on the ice and opened the back doors as the Vipers Captain & Assistant Captains jumped out from the back of the van. Very cool and well thought out idea. Best Home Opener intro I have ever seen! Good job Vipers!

1st Period: Off the opening faceoff, the Silverbacks got the puck in deep, Jason Beattie fed a nice pass from the corner boards, out front to a wide open Conor Morrison who was left alone in front, Morrison then beat Andrew Hammond fivehole putting the Backs up 1-0 just 11 seconds into the game scoring on there first shot on net. Just seconds later the Vipers would jump on a PP, but didnt get many good scoring chances, but did move the puck well. Salmon Arm would kill off the minor, mins later some pushing & shoving took place just to the left of the Silverbacks bench, a few punches were throwen as both teams lines got involved. Vernon would jump right back on the powerplay and this time take advantage. Adam Thompson wired a shot from the point scoring his first career BCHL Goal wich beat Bryan Gillis over the glove tying the game 1-1. Very little flow to the game in the period with both teams exchanging time in the penalty boxes. It seemed like both teams would go back & forth exchanging powerplays. Vipers John Digness had a great scoring chance, going in on a parcial breakaway shorthanded but was stopped by Gillis. Digness looked very good on the PK, playing a solid 1st period. Vernon by far had the better scoring chances and carried more of the play as midway through the 1st period the Vipers were up in shots 10-1. With the Vipers on a two man advantage Mike Collins had a great scoring chance in close, but was robbed as Gillis made a huge pad save down low. Salmon Arm finally got there 2nd shot of the period late in the 1st with about 6 mins remaining after getting two back to back PPs. The Backs would get a few more shots late, Andrew Hammond looked a little shaky on a few shots but did manage to come up with the save. The Silverbacks were down 2-1 after 20 mins of play. Vernon outshot Salmon Arm 13-7.

2nd Period: The Backs come out strong to start the 2nd, getting the puck in deep really cyclying the puck well down low. Andrew Hammond had to be sharpe in the early goings making some nice saves. This was the best pressure Salmon Arm put up all night, the Silverbacks had a great scoring chance in close but Ashford McMaster was robbed by Hammond, after making a big pad save down low. Hammond looked very solid all 2nd period. Salmon Arm had there chances early but couldnt beat Hammond. Vernon seemed to turn things around, & by the 5 min mark got back the edge in play. With Vernon on the PP, Kory Kane put a nice move cutting through the neutral zone, passing it off to Ryan Sanatana, Santana then made a nice pass back over to Kane who roofed his first career BCHL Goal putting his shot over Gilli's glove as the Vipers jumped ahead 2-1 8 mins into the period. Both teams once again had troubles at time staying out of the penalty box. Salmon Arm got a great scoring chance midway through the period, Connor Morrison cut wide down low, then cut towards the net but was stopped by Hammond. Kellen Jones had a great scoring chance, missing on a wide open net at the side of the goal. With under 5 mins remaining and the Vipers on the PP, it was the Silverbacks who got the best scoring chance, as the Viper Defence couldnt handle the puck at the line, this causing a two on zero breakaway, Matt Grassi scooped up the puck, going in on the shorthanded breakaway but once again Hammond was there for the save. On the same powerplay, Steve Tresierra wired a one timer from the point beating Gillis putting the Vipers up 3-1 with just under 4 mins to go in the 2nd. This was Vernons 3rd powerplay goal of the night. Just 28 seconds later Cody Ikkala made a sweet long pass up ice finding a wide open Kellen Jones who went in on the breakaway, putting a nice move on Gillis, then sliding the puck past the Backs veteran goaltender, as Vernon jumped ahead 4-1 and was in full control. Salmon Arm got a late powerplay and had some chances but just missed the net by inches twice. Vernon was up 4-1 after 40 mins of play. Salmon Arm outshot Vernon 15-9.

3rd Period: Wasnt much of an entertaining period as Vernon carried the better of the play for most of the period. The Backs looked lifeless not touching the puck much as the Vipers basically played the dump & chase game for most of the 3rd. Vernon really moved the puck well and did get some chances but let up on the attack. Any chance the Backs did get the puck, they didnt put up much of a fight, getting very few scoring chances or for that matter very few shots on net. Both teams had a few PP chances but couldnt find the back of the goal. Both teams did look good on the PK not giving much room for the other team to move or get any quality shots off. Both goaltenders did make a few nice saves throughout the 3rd. Andrew Hammond had to be sharpe on two Silverback scoring chances looking very quick on his feet all game. Late in the game Captain Matt Walters took two minors as the Vipers come close to going up 5-1 but missed on a few good chances down low. With just 20 seconds remaining and the Vipers on another PP, Colin Lidster was running around trying to level a few Vernon players, Lidster tried crosschecking one of the Jones Twins in front of the net and then raced out towards the point trying to go after one of the Viper D-men. The Vipers basically ran out the clock getting there first win of the season defeating Salmon Arm 4-1. Vernon outshot Salmon Arm 7-6.

Top Players: (Vernon)

Adam Thompson (1 Goal) Looked very good on the backend. Played like a veteran D-man tonight, has an offensive side to him as well as plays very defensively. Laid out a few hits tonight.

Kory Kane (1 Goal) Looked very good up front, has some sweet moves and nice hands. Reminds me alot like former Viper Captain Mike Ullrich, big upper body who can dangle down low. For only being 17 yrs old, this kid is going to be a treat to watch.

Connor & Kellen Jones (1 Goal) both played well all night, worked extremly hard down low and in the corners, were both very hard to fight off the puck. Both cycled the puck well down low, very quick on there feet, really gave the Backs Defence a hard time inbehind the goal and around the net.

Andrew Hammond played his best game as a Viper. Kept the Vipers in the game in the 2nd when the score was only 2-1. Hammond looked a little shaky-gittery to start the game, but played solid the rest of the way. Was very quick on his feet and controlled his rebounds well. John Digness looked great on the PK, played a very well hard fought game all night.

Steve Tresierra (1 Goal) Played very a solid defensive game all night.

Top Players: (Salmon Arm)

Jason Beattie (1 Assist) played well up front for the Silverbacks. Conor Morrison (1 Goal) looked good, had some good scoring chances but was stopped by Hammond in close.

Ashford McMaster also looked very impressive tonight.

Game Thoughts: (Vernon)

I know its very early but Im very impressed with this years edition of the Vernon Vipers. So far they seem to have the right mix of new-young players as well as veterans. A very skilled looking team who can move the puck very well. The Defence was having troubles clearing the puck out of there own end, as well as getting caught on the pinch, causinf way too many two on ones coming the other way. They also need some work on there passing, & breaking out of there own zone but otherwise looked very solid. I was impressed with the puck movement on the PP, wish they would shoot the puck a little more. Had the better of the play for most of the game and was by far the better team tonight. The two late goals in the 2nd killed anychance of a comeback for the Backs. Great to see a big crowd on hand for the teams home opener. Vipers have quite a few American players this year, more then in past years.

Game Thoughts: (Salmon Arm)

Great start to the game for the Backs, scoring just 11 seconds in. Once the game got going the Silverbacks couldnt keep up with Vernons skill. After scoring on there first shot on goal, the Silverbacks didnt record another shot till about 6 mins remaining in the 1st. Had trouble all night getting shots towards the net, looked good on the backend and in goal, as you couldnt blame Gillis on any of the four goals. Onething I liked about Salmon Arm, is there a very quick, fast skating team. This team sure dosnt have the scoring touch like seen in past years. Not sure on the recruiting done for this years Backs team, but this was by far one of the weaker looking Salmon Arm teams I have ever seen since them joining the league. Sure goes to show you what kind of talent Gary Davidson always recruited? I know he brought alot of talent-goal scorers to town and without him, they may be lacking in the recruiting department. Yes I know its early but the Silverbacks didnt look all that impressive tonight. This was the 3rd straight meeting between these two teams, could we see some fireworks tomorrow night? Looking forward to catching tomorrow nights home opener for Salmon Arm.

Scratches:

Vernon:

Sahir Gill
Trent Dorais
Kory Roy
Nick Amies

Salmon Arm:

Greg Noyes
Sam Mitchell

3 Stars:

1st Star: Andrew Hammond
2nd Star: Kellen Jones (1 Goal)
3rd Star: Adam Thompson (1 Goal)

Vipers Name Captains:

This is on the Vipers website:

Vipers name captains

by viper staff Added 2008-09-05

The Vernon Vipers are pleased to announce their 2008-2009 Captains for the season. All veterans to the Vipers, Cody Ikkala, Kyle Bigos and Steve Tresierra will all be Assistant Captains to two time Captain, Chris Crowell. Last season all four players contriubuted to the sucess of the Vipers and look to lead the pack for a bigger and better year. Ikkala, who was out for a lot of the season last year, played 38 games last season with the snakes, posting 1 goal, 4 assists and 85 penalty minutes. Cody is not only excited to be wearing the "A",he also gets to show his little bother, Cole Ikkala, the ropes of the BCHL and the Vernon Vipers. Kyle Bigos came to the Vipers last season from California where he started off a bit rusty but by the end of the year he not only posted the most penalty minutes of the team with 152, had 1 goal and 15 assists in 58 games, but most importantly Bigos was name Most Improved Player. Bigos took his summer very seriously and he has already improved his strength and skills. Steve Tresierra, a rookie last season from Golden, has the heart and soul of a true hockey player. Tressiera, with 7 assists and 27 penatly minutes last year is looking to make a huge impression on the ice this year. Steve focused this summer on his strength and willl look to secure a NCAA scholarship this season. Named Captain for a second season, Chris Crowell is once again very honored and proud to lead the Vipers for 2008-2009. Crowell has been with the Vipers since 2005 and knows what it takes to lead and motivate a team. Crowell had 9 goals and 17 assists in 55 games last season and posted 135 penalty minutes. Coach Mark Ferner says "All four of these guys are very worthy of this honor. They all portray what we would like to see our players act like both on and off the ice. They will serve the team and represent the community very well." The Vipers start their season tonight at 7:00PM and host the Salmon Arm Silverbacks.

My Thoughts On Goodrunning Trade:

The Vipers recruited Goodrunning last year, I was impressed with his rugged-physical play during last summers training camp but after a few regular season games, Goodrunning backed away from his rugged-physical play and really didnt do much for the rest of the year. On most nights Dallas was out of position and basically out for a skate. Late in the season he did improve a little and did get back playing with a bit of an edge but that didnt seem to last very long. I didnt think he would be back with the Vipers this year. I wish him the best of luck in Olds and hope he can play with that edge, working hard in the corners and play physical wich improves his game alot and makes him a much better hockey player. Thanks for your stay in Vernon Dallas. Best of luck!

Vernon-Olds Trade:

This is on the Vipers website:

goodrunning gone

by viper staff Added 2008-09-04

The Vipers Season Opener may be Friday night but the coaching staff is still at work making final changes to their roster. The Vipers have traded forward Dallas Goodrunning, who came to Vernon from Rocky Mountain House Alberta, played 52 game last year for the snakes posting 3 goals, 11 assists and 64 penalty minutes.

Vipers Loaded For Title Chase:

This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:

Vipers loaded for title chase

Published: September 04, 2008 6:00 PM Updated: September 04, 2008 7:08 PM

While some teams rebuild, the Vernon Vipers simply reload.The Vipers, who appear to have a powerhouse with 13 returnees and a select group of carefully hand-picked recruits from the U.S. and Alberta, open the 48th B.C. Hockey League season as Interior Conference favourites.Vernon lost to Penticton in seven games, in last year's Conference semifinal. Two years ago, the Snakes fell to the Nanaimo Clippers in the league final.Mark Ferner's crew battles the Salmon Arm SilverBacks in their season opener tonight (7:00, Wesbild Centre). The same two teams meet Saturday night at the Sunwave Centre.

Here's how the Conference standings should look come late February:

1. VERNON VIPERS

Key Returnees: F Kellen Jones (12-55-67), F Connor Jones (24-30-54), F Braden Pimm (15-24-39), F Rob Short (18-18-36), F Chris Crowell (9-17-26), D Kyle Bigos (2-15-17), G Andrew Hammond (21-17-1, 3.19 GAA).Rookie sensations: Cory Kane, a California product who combines size and speed with decent hands, was perhaps the biggest surprise at Vipers' camp. D-man Adam Thompson of the Alberta midget league Calgary Buffaloes is solid enough to log top-four minutes, while Stevie Weinstein of Los Angeles possesses great offensive instincts, and will likely man the point on the powerplay.Strengths: With 13 returning players and a handful of intriguing prospects, the Vipers are considerably deeper than last year. Bigos and Kevin Kraus will anchor a blueline that has both size and mobility. Up front, the Vipers have a pair of flashy playmakers in the Jones twins. Pimm, Sahir Gill and Mike Collins will add scoring punch, while Crowell, Short and Ryan Santana will provide grit and leadership. After a strong training camp, Hammond put his stamp on the No. 1 net detective spot. That leaves Mark Segal, who came to Vernon from the Vancouver Giants’ camp on Tuesday, in the backup role.Coaches quote (Mark Ferner): “We want to play the same style as last year. We want to be a north-south hockey team, and we want to have the ability to wear teams down, which we should be able to do with our work ethic.“Last year, we were in a situation where we really only had two natural centremen. We feel we’re a bit deeper down the middle, and deeper as a whole, not only up front, but on the back end as well.”Prognosis: While the Vipers will sorely miss Hunter Bishop's 57 goals, they should get more balanced scoring over four lines. The key will be finding someone who can keep up with the Joneses.Santana appears primed to fill the void left by gritty veteran Scott Zurevinski, and Collins, a Boston product, has shown he can put up decent numbers.

2. WESTSIDE WARRIORS

Key returnees: F Trevor Bailey (26-34-60), D Justin Schultz (9-31-40), D Cory Pritz (14-26-40) C Ron Kelly (15-23-48).Rookie sensations: Forwards Brett Howe (Lethbridge) and Alex Grieve (Calgary) were both captains in Alberta’s top midget league last year, while forward Kyle Singleton (Pittsburgh midget) has been impressive in camp.Strengths: With six veteran defenceman back, Westside’s strength is on the blueline. NHL draft pick Justin Schultz and team MVP Cory Pritz will be a dangerous one-two punch offensively, while steady Eric Fraser and tough Brad Plumton are 20-year-olds playing in their third BCHL seasons.Coaches quote (Mark Howell): “We have a lot of new pieces. Our back end will be mobile and very efficient. In net we’re still unsure. Up front I think we will be quick and skilled.”Prognosis: The Warriors lost four of its top five scorers and will lean on Bailey to increase his 60 points. Captain Ron Kelly will provide the leadership and work ethic, while big Garrett Watson is a power forward who should increase his 14 goals. The big question is in goal where no one had won the No. 1 spot heading into the regular season.

3. SALMON ARM SILVERBACKS

Key returnees: G Brian Gillis (3.26, 90.19), D Matt Grassi (3-20-23), D Matt Walters (3-13-16), F Zac Rasmussen (15-11-26).Rookie sensations: Forwards Travis Statchuk (Prince Albert) and Chris Hoe (Vancouver) will be looked upon to replace some of the offence lost by graduations and trades while goaltender Tony Ierfino (Quebec) will provide more than a comparable back-up to Gillis.Strengths: The team should be tough to score against with Gillis between the pipes and a defence that returns Grassi and Walters while adding Jason Beattie (from Nanaimo) and Ashford McMaster (from Victoria).Coaches quote (Rylan Ferster): "We're have to play a real team game... make sure we're all on the same page. Certainly, the five guys on the ice have to be on the same page but we need the whole team to be like that. You don't want a bunch of individuals, you can't win in the long way that way."Prognosis: The SilverBacks will be hard pressed to replace their seven leading scorers from last year, even with the addition of Keenan Desmet from Victoria. The goal will be to stay competitive while all newcomers develop some chemistry, especially offensively.

4. PENTICTON VEES

Key returnees: D Zack Josepher (14-24-38), D Nathan Westover (9-14-23) F Anthony Perdicaro (3-11-14), F Vinny Muchalla (0-4-4).Rookie sensations: Forwards Travis Ouellette (32-42-74) and Ryan Viselli (34-46-80) helped the Tecumseh Chiefs junior B club claim the Sutherland Cup (Ontario) last season, while Garrett Milan starred for the Vancouver Northwest Giants in the B.C. Major Midget League.Strengths: The Vees blueline will benefit from the return of Josepher and Westover who bring valuable experience. They will be joined by Matt Paltridge, teammate of Ouellette and Viselli, who brings solid skating skills and the ability to move the puck. Up front, the Vees leadership with Muchalla and Perdicaro, who was invited to the New York Islanders rookie camp, has been boosted by the addition of David Andreassen from the Camrose Kodiaks. Coaches quote (Fred Harbinson): "I like the look of our team right now. I think we have a good mix of experience, a good mix of skill and toughness and I think everyone who has watched our team play on the first four games can attest that we're definitely a quick hockey team."Prognosis: They will be looking to Milan, Ouellette, Viselli and Brent Vandenberg, who scored 35 goals and 68 points in the Ontario Provincial Junior A Hockey League, among others to be productive. In goal, the Vees are going with 19-year-old import Anthony Borelli and 17-year-old Sean Bonar.

5. QUESNEL MILLIONAIRES

Key returnees: Jeff Malcolm between the pipes. Malcolm led the league in minutes played last season. The Millionaires look to him to anchor their defence. Up front, Trevor Hertz had 31 goals as a rookie, is expected to make a big contribution offensively.Rookie sensations: Both goaltenders, Ty Gullickson and Michael Garteig. Athough still at the camp stage at time of this writing, both have demonstrated great potential.Strengths: Obviously the Millionaires are long on goaltenders, but they're also building depth on defence with the recent three-team trade that brought Jordan Principalli to the side. Also look for an improved possession game buttressed by a faster, bigger forechecking unit, likely lead by power forward Robbie Bailey and returning hometowner Eric Galbraith.Coach's quote (Tom Bohmer): "We're starting to see the fruits of the decisions we made last year to invest in younger talent. With the trades we've made, the changes to the coaching staff and the sponsorship deal with Regency Chrysler, we're sending a powerful message. This is the best team we've had in this market." Prognosis: The Millionaires are hungry for a playoff berth, and have assembled an organization that can make some noise once they're there. After some quiet years, the pieces are falling into place in Quesnel.

6. TRAIL SMOKE EATERS

Key Returnees: F Ryan Bulach (15-18-33) takes over as captain; last season’s back-up goalie Paul Barclay very focused, calm and working well; F Paul Mailey (7-19-26), very impressive in camp; D Patrick Raley (2-9-11) in tremendous shape. F Brian Kang (13-18-32) was obtained from Merritt.Rookie Sensations: F Travis St. Denis, a 16-year-old Trail native is like a sponge, gets better every day, D Dan DeKeyser, a 6-foot-3 import from Detroit, a very good skater, J.F. Boisvert an explosive skater from Quebec, D Steven Koshey looks very good. Strengths: Andrew Pickering (Victoria Grizzlies) averaged more than two points a game, will centre Chad Gehon who averaged over a point a game with Merritt. J.F. Boisvert. Bulach, Mailey and C.J. Legassic will be another powerful line. D Brandon Clark from Cowichan Valley will provide a ton of leadership on the back end.Coach’s quote (Jim Ingram): “Every year you want to make the playoffs. This team is going to be living and learning everyday as far as how to play the B.C. Hockey League. Where we are going to go is completely up to them. We have a lot of smart players here and without question we are looking at a playoff berth, but I am just looking to improve every single day with this bunch, and I think that is the way we have to approach it here because of our youth.”Prognosis: Ingram really likes his team and is having a tough time making final cuts. He’s got a good mix of youth and maturity. The Smokies could be a darkhorse.

7. PRINCE GEORGE

Key returnees: D Zach Davies (11-22-33), F Sammy Muchalla (14-27-41) and G Kevin Genoe (3.21 GAA and 89.33 save percentage in 21 games)Rookie sensations: Blueliner Justin Fillion and forward RJay Berra carry with them a desire to win in their hometown. Nick Desousa, a Fraser Lake product, was also impressive in helping the Spruce Kings defeat the Millionaires three times in the pre-season.Forward Michael Nardi joins the Spruce Kings after a very impressive season playing Major Midget with the Vancouver Thunderbirds, where he compiled 40 goals and 77 points in 53 regular season and playoff games.Strengths: Despite the loss of their leading scorer, Jordy Christian (39-45-84), the Spruce Kings' best asset may be their offence. While they're unlikely to have a player produce points as frequently as Christian, they could have as many as five players hit the 20-goal mark. Among the forwards expected to contribute offensively are returning players Muchalla and Joe Morgan (18-12-30), and newcomers Sean Ambrosie (Winnipeg South Blues of the MJHL) and Alex Allan (Olds Grizzlys of the AJHL). On the back end, a lot of pressure will be put on third-year blue liner Davies to try controlling the pace of the game, while bigger contributions are expected out of Brandon Busse and Wes McLeod.Coach's quote (Ed Dempsey): "We've got lot of depth up front. We might be lacking a prolific goal scorer, but we got a number of forwards that we feel that are very capable of playing in this league and putting up some real good numbers."Prognosis: Genoe sported respectable rookie numbers last season, but struggled in the playoffs against a high-powered Salmon Arm SilverBacks offence. He's still relatively inexperienced, and his play will depend heavily on the defence in front of him, and whether or not they're able to limit opponents' opportunities. The Spruce Kings will once again be on the playoff bubble, and may need between 55 and 60 games just to secure one of the final playoff berths.

8. MERRITT CENTENNIALS:

Key returnees: F Tyler Barr (7-15-187), G Graeme Gordon (3.89 GAA).Rookie sensations: D Curtis Gedig (7-13-70 in 40 games with the Okanagan Major Midgets last season), D Jake Baker (0-8-47 over 37 games with the Port Moody Panthers of the PIJHL), D Todd Fletcher (13-20-86 after 43 games with the PIJHL Ridge Meadow Flames) and D Matt Mazzarolo (1-16-87 in 53 games with the Columbia Valley Rockies of the KIJHL).Strengths: The Centennials have a deeper bench than last year, and they're physically stronger. Coach/GM Al Glendinning has produced a team with balanced scoring ability from top to bottom, and that includes the defencemen.Coach's quote (Al Glendinning): "We'll be more competitive than last year. How far up the chain we go really depends on the commitment we see from these guys. All the guys here want to be here, and they want to get something done. We think we've filled in some real key components here. I couldn't tell you where we're going to end up, but we like what we see."Prognosis: The Centennials should do better than last year, but that won't be hard after Merritt's dismal 13-38-1-8 record. Glendinning plans to build the team around the four rookie D-men.

Vipers Gong Gorillas In Preseason:

This was in todays Morning Star Newspaper:

Vipers gong Gorillas in preseason

Published: September 02, 2008 7:00 PM

While it would be foolhardy to put too much stock in the results of a couple preseason games, the Vernon Vipers did look impressive in stuffing the Salmon Arm SilverBacks in their weekend doubleheader.After opening with a 3-2 win Saturday night at the Sunwave Centre, the Snakes crushed the gorillas 6-0 in B.C. Hockey League exhibition play Sunday at the Revelstoke Forum.Meanwhile, the Vipers announced the following cuts on Tuesday: Richard Jodoin, Jeremy Wiebe, Sawyer Mick (all Vernon products), Anthony Manfredi, Mike Wiest, Layne Stopanski and Doug Orr.“They all came in and made an impression. In any other year, they might have had a better chance,” said Vipers’ head coach Mark Ferner, referring to the depth of talent at training camp.The Vipers still have 26 players on their roster, including 10 imports and netminder Mark Siegal, a 17-year-old who they brought in from the Vancouver Giants’ camp on Tuesday. Ferner said it won’t be easy trimming the final three prospects.Defenceman Steve Tresierra opened the Vipers’ account six minutes into Saturday’s contest on a pass from Braden Pimm. Pimm made another sweet pass to Chris Crowell a few minutes later, after which Crowell stepped up to the blueline and wired one past Salmon Arm starter Bryan Gillis, blocker side. Gillis was replaced by Tony Ierfino halfway through the game, while Ryan Farghar started for Vernon and was replaced by Anthony Manfredi. In the second period, the SilverBacks’ Zac Rasmussen drilled Crowell along the boards. Crowell retaliated and a line brawl ensued. The Vipers’ Kevin Kraus and Salmon Arm’s Brian Elser put on the best show before getting tossed.With the Vipers starting to play a little sluggish, Mark Zengerle and Mike Puddifant answered for Salmon Arm in the second period.Pimm iced the game in the third. “We came pretty good together since the puck drop, working hard, finishing checks, capitalizing on opportunities and having a good forecheck,” said Tresierra. “We let up in the second period a little bit, though, and they got a few bounces their way and the puck went in for them. “The fight definitely got things rolling at the end of the second, giving both teams lots of energy, and gave way for an exciting third period.”On Sunday, the Vipers cruised to victory on goals by Vernon minor hockey products Sawyer Mick and Trent Dorais, and by Sahir Gill, Ryan Santana, Mike Collins and Jesse Halikas.Andrew Hammond, who played a full 60 minutes, earned the shutout in a game that saw the Vipers take control from the outset.Cole Ikkala, the younger brother of Philadelphia product Cody, went toe-to-toe with Puddifant.Ferner sat a handful of veterans for each game to make sure those players on the bubble had ample opportunity to get in the action.While Ferner said it was good to get the wins, he was more concerned with seeing effort on the ice.“Certainly, I’m happy we won, but everyone starts the regular season with a fresh start,” said Ferner. “The one thing we were looking at was effort, and I thought the effort was pretty good. We’ll get better as the guys get to understand the systems a little better.“Some of the guys started a little slow, but looked a little more confident as the game went on.”SilverBacks’ head coach Rylan Ferster took the losses in stride, saying it’s just a part of tuning up for the regular season.“We’re just trying to get a read on our group still, and see where we’re at,” said Ferster. “The goal is to get better every day. We’ve really liked the play of the young guys we’ve brought in.”In addition to the solid play of his newcomers, Ferster is hopeful Gillis will continue to show the poise he demonstrated between the pipes last season.“In building a team, I think you have to start building from the back out, and go from there.”The Vipers entertain the ‘Backs in their season opener Friday night at Wesbild Centre (7 p.m.), followed by a re-match Saturday at Sunwave.

Vipers Loaded And Ready For Regular Season Action:

This is on the BCHL website:

Vipers loaded and ready for regular season action

Monday, September 1, 2008 - Submitted by BCHL Media

The Vernon Vipers narrowly missed beating eventual champs Penticton in last season's Interior Conference semi-finals series. Six months later, they're determined to take their 2008/09 season a few steps further.Smarting from the loss of 56-goal scorer Hunter Bishop, the Vipers have added a number of offensive weapons to an already potent squad. Joining Kellen and Connor Jones up front for Vernon are rookies Corey Kane, Ryan Santana and Mike Collins -- a trio of offensively gifted players that head coach Mark Ferner has high expectations for."Corey is a big kid and a good skater," Ferner says. "I wouldn't say that I've been pleasantly surprised, because I knew what he was capable of entering camp, but he's looked very good.""Ryan's work ethic is second to none, and Mike is a very skilled player from Boston who we think could be a good fit with the Jones twins."But even with a number of returning players and some highly-touted rookies coming to training camp, Ferner was determined to make every potential Viper earn their spot on the team."We planned on having a very competitive atmosphere in camp," he says. "The message was that no position was safe, and the guys responded. There were lots of chances to impress in-house and we got to see just how competitive the players were."So what can Vipers fans expect from their team in the season ahead?"We're going to be hard to play against," Ferner says. "We're going to be built for a seven-game series, but I think we also have more skill. I'm expecting a big season."