With 22 days until the conclusion of the BCHL regular season, Ryan Pinder of the Penticton Vees did a good job at breaking down the race for the Interior Division with a look at the top four teams (Vernon, Penticton, Salmon Arm & Westside) Check out Pinders blog for his coverage,
http://pentictonvees.podbean.com/2010/01/30/interior-homestretch-analysis-vrnpenwssa/
Sunday, January 31, 2010
R.I.P Hap Schaefer:
Former Vernon Junior Hockey Head Coach Hap Schaefer passed away last weekend.
Schaefer, Ronald Francis Sunday, 24 Jan 2010 Vernon Morning Star Vernon, BC
We regret to announce the passing of Ronald “Hap” Schaefer at the Vernon Jubilee Hospital on Sunday, January 24, 2010. Hap was predeceased by his wife of 57 years, Ruth and is survived by his loving daughter Debbie (Jack) of Quesnel, four sons, Don (Cathy) of Winfield, David of Vernon, Terry (Kerri) of Vernon, and Rob (Judy) of Merritt; thirteen grandchildren, three great grandchildren; brothers, Frank, Martin and Dennis and sisters Madeline, Doreen and Bernadette. He was predeceased by his parents, Frank and Beatrice Schaefer and three brothers, Terry, Les and Al and by sister Irene.
Hap was a long time sportsman, coaching the Vernon Blades Jr. Hockey team. He was an avid fisherman, hunter and businessman in Hap’s Midtown service where he was a mechanic.
A Celebration of Hap’s Life will be held on Saturday, January 30 at 2:00 p.m. at the Pleasant Valley Funeral Home. Those friends wishing to make memorial contributions in memory of Hap may do so to the Bosom Buddies, c/o Vernon Jubilee Hospital Foundation, 2101 – 32 Street, Vernon, BC V1T 9Z9 or to the North Okanagan Hospice Society, 3506 – 27 Avenue, Vernon, BC V1T 1S4.
The family wishes to express their appreciation to Dr. Louis Boucher, nursing staff VJH third floor, and a heart-felt thanks to “Nurse Next Door” Brenda, Susan and Sally.
My thoughts & prayers go out to the Schaefer family.
Schaefer, Ronald Francis Sunday, 24 Jan 2010 Vernon Morning Star Vernon, BC
We regret to announce the passing of Ronald “Hap” Schaefer at the Vernon Jubilee Hospital on Sunday, January 24, 2010. Hap was predeceased by his wife of 57 years, Ruth and is survived by his loving daughter Debbie (Jack) of Quesnel, four sons, Don (Cathy) of Winfield, David of Vernon, Terry (Kerri) of Vernon, and Rob (Judy) of Merritt; thirteen grandchildren, three great grandchildren; brothers, Frank, Martin and Dennis and sisters Madeline, Doreen and Bernadette. He was predeceased by his parents, Frank and Beatrice Schaefer and three brothers, Terry, Les and Al and by sister Irene.
Hap was a long time sportsman, coaching the Vernon Blades Jr. Hockey team. He was an avid fisherman, hunter and businessman in Hap’s Midtown service where he was a mechanic.
A Celebration of Hap’s Life will be held on Saturday, January 30 at 2:00 p.m. at the Pleasant Valley Funeral Home. Those friends wishing to make memorial contributions in memory of Hap may do so to the Bosom Buddies, c/o Vernon Jubilee Hospital Foundation, 2101 – 32 Street, Vernon, BC V1T 9Z9 or to the North Okanagan Hospice Society, 3506 – 27 Avenue, Vernon, BC V1T 1S4.
The family wishes to express their appreciation to Dr. Louis Boucher, nursing staff VJH third floor, and a heart-felt thanks to “Nurse Next Door” Brenda, Susan and Sally.
My thoughts & prayers go out to the Schaefer family.
Vipers Smother Chiefs:
This is posted on the Vipers website:
Vipers smother Chiefs
by Don Klepp | Added 2010-01-30
A solid team effort allowed the Vernon Vipers to stifle the visiting Langley Chiefs 5-1 Saturday.
Both teams took the body throughout the contest, as each team registered 31 hits. Langley’s Mitch Pacey and Vernon’s David Robinson led the hit parade for their respective teams.
Also, both goaltenders played well. Although he was torched for five goals, Mark Friesen shone in net for Langley, gloving many shots that were destined for the top corner. Each period, the Vipers had seven quality scoring chances, as they were allowed to freewheel through the neutral zone.
Meanwhile, Blake Voth was solid and occasionally spectacular in the Vernon goal. In the third period, for example, he faced down each of Brad McBride, Brandon Thompson, and Colton Beck. In the process, he reduced his league-leading goals against average to 1.50 and improved his BCHL-best save percentage to 93.80.
Except for a first-period one-timer off the stick of Braden Pimm, the scoring happened in the second period. Special teams led the Vipers. At 4:30, Mike Collins circled and then went straight up “Collins Lane,” an area between the right faceoff dot and the edge of the faceoff circle. As he did in the previous night’s contest, he snapped a high, quick shot past the goalkeeper.
Twenty-one seconds later the Jones boys followed with a high tempo shorthanded goal. Kellen knocked down a pass at his line and burst past the Chief point man with Connor to his right. From 25 feet, Connor swept an ice skimmer just inside the post.
At 10:28, Dan Nycholat came off the point to take a perfect pass from Bryce Kakoske and rip a shot past Friesen. The power play goal was Nycholat’s fifth of the season, but his first in 26 games.
Langley’s only goal came when Brad McBride picked off a weak Viper clearing pass set up Trevor Gerling, who made a nice move to get around Voth and deposit the puck in an open net at 14:41.
Cole Ikkala closed the scoring at 18:20 when he tapped in Braden Pimm’s feed from behind the net. Ikkala was named first star in the game because of his three points and relentless play. He has blossomed in the six games he has skated with Collins and Pimm, scoring 7 goals and 6 assists in that stretch.
The third period featured some wide open play and strong goaltending. It also saw an incident behind the Viper net. Blake Voth came to play the puck, and he was hammered by Jordan Sims. Dan Nycholat sprang to his goaltender’s defence and fought with Sims. Colten Hayes, Josh Myers, joined in, along with Vernon’s Jonathan Milhouse.
The Vipers who have now scored 22 shorthanded goals, which equals the number of power play markers they’ve allowed. They came very close to adding two more in the third period. First, Kellen and Connor Jones created a two-on-one rush, but Kellen’s goalmouth pass was just out of Connor’s reach. Then, Rob Short beat Friesen with a howitzer, but had the puck bounce off the cross bar.
Vipers smother Chiefs
by Don Klepp | Added 2010-01-30
A solid team effort allowed the Vernon Vipers to stifle the visiting Langley Chiefs 5-1 Saturday.
Both teams took the body throughout the contest, as each team registered 31 hits. Langley’s Mitch Pacey and Vernon’s David Robinson led the hit parade for their respective teams.
Also, both goaltenders played well. Although he was torched for five goals, Mark Friesen shone in net for Langley, gloving many shots that were destined for the top corner. Each period, the Vipers had seven quality scoring chances, as they were allowed to freewheel through the neutral zone.
Meanwhile, Blake Voth was solid and occasionally spectacular in the Vernon goal. In the third period, for example, he faced down each of Brad McBride, Brandon Thompson, and Colton Beck. In the process, he reduced his league-leading goals against average to 1.50 and improved his BCHL-best save percentage to 93.80.
Except for a first-period one-timer off the stick of Braden Pimm, the scoring happened in the second period. Special teams led the Vipers. At 4:30, Mike Collins circled and then went straight up “Collins Lane,” an area between the right faceoff dot and the edge of the faceoff circle. As he did in the previous night’s contest, he snapped a high, quick shot past the goalkeeper.
Twenty-one seconds later the Jones boys followed with a high tempo shorthanded goal. Kellen knocked down a pass at his line and burst past the Chief point man with Connor to his right. From 25 feet, Connor swept an ice skimmer just inside the post.
At 10:28, Dan Nycholat came off the point to take a perfect pass from Bryce Kakoske and rip a shot past Friesen. The power play goal was Nycholat’s fifth of the season, but his first in 26 games.
Langley’s only goal came when Brad McBride picked off a weak Viper clearing pass set up Trevor Gerling, who made a nice move to get around Voth and deposit the puck in an open net at 14:41.
Cole Ikkala closed the scoring at 18:20 when he tapped in Braden Pimm’s feed from behind the net. Ikkala was named first star in the game because of his three points and relentless play. He has blossomed in the six games he has skated with Collins and Pimm, scoring 7 goals and 6 assists in that stretch.
The third period featured some wide open play and strong goaltending. It also saw an incident behind the Viper net. Blake Voth came to play the puck, and he was hammered by Jordan Sims. Dan Nycholat sprang to his goaltender’s defence and fought with Sims. Colten Hayes, Josh Myers, joined in, along with Vernon’s Jonathan Milhouse.
The Vipers who have now scored 22 shorthanded goals, which equals the number of power play markers they’ve allowed. They came very close to adding two more in the third period. First, Kellen and Connor Jones created a two-on-one rush, but Kellen’s goalmouth pass was just out of Connor’s reach. Then, Rob Short beat Friesen with a howitzer, but had the puck bounce off the cross bar.
Vipers Outlast Kings’ Siege:
This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:
Vipers outlast Kings’ siege
By Graeme Corbett - Vernon Morning Star
Published: January 31, 2010
The Vernon Vipers got the solid first period they were looking for against the Powell River Kings, but had trouble closing because of a sloppy third frame Friday night at Wesbild Centre.
After racing out to a three-goal lead, the Snakes quelled a late uprising by the Kings to hang on for a 5-2 win before 1,876 fans in their first meeting since the two teams tangled in last year’s B.C. Hockey League Fred Page Cup.
First star Braden Pimm set up the winner 10 minutes into the second period, zipping into the Kings’ zone before dropping off to Cole Ikkala (18th goal), who snuck his shot five-hole on netminder Josh Watson.
“We finally came out with a good first-period effort, but the third period we kind of had a bit of a gaff there,” said Pimm, who was stellar at both ends of the ice.
“They (Kings) didn’t look like they were ready to play in the first couple of periods, but they bounced back in the third and gave us a run for our money.”
After a high-tempo start with good action at both ends, the Vipers (42-6-0-2) settled into their typical puck possession game. Dan Nycholat tested Watson (26 saves) early with a point shot through traffic. The Kings’ keeper stayed strong on the rebound to deny Dylan Walchuk on his doorstep.
Even when the Kings (29-15-1-6) had back-to-back powerplays, they were unable to test rookie netminder Blake Voth, managing just three shots in the first frame. Powell River head coach Kent Lewis was unimpressed with his team’s effort.
“We spotted them a couple early and we just didn’t play well. When we did the things we needed to do, I thought territorially we did a good job.
“Too many turnover and too many guys that I count on up front didn’t do the job. It’s not just about effort, but smarts.”
On the Vipers’ first powerplay, Mike Collins (25th) stepped out from the sidewall and wristed a shot through Watson from the high slot to open the scoring.
Late in the period, Jonathan Milhouse charged in from the wing and was stopped by Watson, but Walchuk (19th) shoveled the rebound home before the netminder could recover.
The Kings responded with a better effort in the second frame, limiting the Snakes to just one shot in the first 10 minutes. However, they were unable to generate much themselves.
Powell River’s special teams let them down again late in the second when they couldn’t capitalize on a 90-second 5-on-3. Voth (22 saves) looked steady in stopping Matt Garbowsky on a quick one-timer from the doorstep. The Herbert, Sask. product then got a shoulder on Reid Campbell’s point shot from the top of the circle.
“I knew that 5-on-3 was going to play a big factor. If we could pull it off we were probably going to win the game,” said Voth.
Added Vipers’ head coach Mark Ferner: “That was a big kill. They have some talented guys over there that can put the puck in the net but we did a good job to kill that off.”
Vernon’s Kellen Jones (9th) looked to put the Kings away for good 4:43 into the third period. On a great solo effort, he wheeled up the left wing, cut in hard behind a Powell River defender and drove to the net to slip a nice backhand by Watson.
However, less than a minute later, with the Vipers treading water in their own end, Chad Niddery (14th) one-timed a quick pass from Brenden Forbes from behind the net to put Powell River on the board.
Ferner was at a loss as to why the Vipers stopped skating in their own end.
“I thought the first two periods were fine, but then we tried to do too much with the puck. We weren’t moving it, we were standing around with it and the momentum changed.”
Niddery (15th) scored again a few minutes later, this time redirecting defenceman Mat Bodie’s slap pass from the point just inside the post past a helpless Voth.
“Bodie is a very smart defenceman. He did have a lane for the shot but no one was in front so he always does this Sedin play slap pass and I just got lucky,” said Niddery, a Penticton product.
Niddery says Powell River doesn’t have the scoring punch or overall depth they did last year, but adds this year’s addition makes up for it with work ethic.
“Last year we had depth all the way through, kind of like Vernon’s offence. This year we’re a lot younger and we basically went for speed and grit.
“If we play a full 60 with everyone playing their role, we win the games.”
The Vipers’ Robbie Short, using his speed and athleticism, intercepted a cross-ice pass at his blueline, then beat Huisman in a foot race to deliver an empty-netter.
The Vipers hosted the Langley Chiefs (30-18-1-3) Saturday night at Wesbild, and don’t play again until they visit the Merritt Centennials Friday night at Nicola Valley Arena.
Vipers outlast Kings’ siege
By Graeme Corbett - Vernon Morning Star
Published: January 31, 2010
The Vernon Vipers got the solid first period they were looking for against the Powell River Kings, but had trouble closing because of a sloppy third frame Friday night at Wesbild Centre.
After racing out to a three-goal lead, the Snakes quelled a late uprising by the Kings to hang on for a 5-2 win before 1,876 fans in their first meeting since the two teams tangled in last year’s B.C. Hockey League Fred Page Cup.
First star Braden Pimm set up the winner 10 minutes into the second period, zipping into the Kings’ zone before dropping off to Cole Ikkala (18th goal), who snuck his shot five-hole on netminder Josh Watson.
“We finally came out with a good first-period effort, but the third period we kind of had a bit of a gaff there,” said Pimm, who was stellar at both ends of the ice.
“They (Kings) didn’t look like they were ready to play in the first couple of periods, but they bounced back in the third and gave us a run for our money.”
After a high-tempo start with good action at both ends, the Vipers (42-6-0-2) settled into their typical puck possession game. Dan Nycholat tested Watson (26 saves) early with a point shot through traffic. The Kings’ keeper stayed strong on the rebound to deny Dylan Walchuk on his doorstep.
Even when the Kings (29-15-1-6) had back-to-back powerplays, they were unable to test rookie netminder Blake Voth, managing just three shots in the first frame. Powell River head coach Kent Lewis was unimpressed with his team’s effort.
“We spotted them a couple early and we just didn’t play well. When we did the things we needed to do, I thought territorially we did a good job.
“Too many turnover and too many guys that I count on up front didn’t do the job. It’s not just about effort, but smarts.”
On the Vipers’ first powerplay, Mike Collins (25th) stepped out from the sidewall and wristed a shot through Watson from the high slot to open the scoring.
Late in the period, Jonathan Milhouse charged in from the wing and was stopped by Watson, but Walchuk (19th) shoveled the rebound home before the netminder could recover.
The Kings responded with a better effort in the second frame, limiting the Snakes to just one shot in the first 10 minutes. However, they were unable to generate much themselves.
Powell River’s special teams let them down again late in the second when they couldn’t capitalize on a 90-second 5-on-3. Voth (22 saves) looked steady in stopping Matt Garbowsky on a quick one-timer from the doorstep. The Herbert, Sask. product then got a shoulder on Reid Campbell’s point shot from the top of the circle.
“I knew that 5-on-3 was going to play a big factor. If we could pull it off we were probably going to win the game,” said Voth.
Added Vipers’ head coach Mark Ferner: “That was a big kill. They have some talented guys over there that can put the puck in the net but we did a good job to kill that off.”
Vernon’s Kellen Jones (9th) looked to put the Kings away for good 4:43 into the third period. On a great solo effort, he wheeled up the left wing, cut in hard behind a Powell River defender and drove to the net to slip a nice backhand by Watson.
However, less than a minute later, with the Vipers treading water in their own end, Chad Niddery (14th) one-timed a quick pass from Brenden Forbes from behind the net to put Powell River on the board.
Ferner was at a loss as to why the Vipers stopped skating in their own end.
“I thought the first two periods were fine, but then we tried to do too much with the puck. We weren’t moving it, we were standing around with it and the momentum changed.”
Niddery (15th) scored again a few minutes later, this time redirecting defenceman Mat Bodie’s slap pass from the point just inside the post past a helpless Voth.
“Bodie is a very smart defenceman. He did have a lane for the shot but no one was in front so he always does this Sedin play slap pass and I just got lucky,” said Niddery, a Penticton product.
Niddery says Powell River doesn’t have the scoring punch or overall depth they did last year, but adds this year’s addition makes up for it with work ethic.
“Last year we had depth all the way through, kind of like Vernon’s offence. This year we’re a lot younger and we basically went for speed and grit.
“If we play a full 60 with everyone playing their role, we win the games.”
The Vipers’ Robbie Short, using his speed and athleticism, intercepted a cross-ice pass at his blueline, then beat Huisman in a foot race to deliver an empty-netter.
The Vipers hosted the Langley Chiefs (30-18-1-3) Saturday night at Wesbild, and don’t play again until they visit the Merritt Centennials Friday night at Nicola Valley Arena.
Saturday, January 30, 2010
Vernon 5 Langley 1
I was at tonights BCHL game as Vernon defeated Langley 5-1 in front of 1,922 fans at the Wesbild Centre.
Starting Goaltenders:
Vernon: Blake Voth
Langley: Mark Friesen
1st Period: Off the opening draw, on Vernons first rush up ice, David Robinson with a quick wrist shot from the circle was stopped by Mark Friesen. On the next rush back come the Chiefs, Brad McBride with a chance in front but just missed the net. The Vipers moving the puck well, created chances on several occasions in the opening period. Cory Kane with a backhand was robbed by the quick glove of Friesen. Vernon would get the games first powerplay of the night. Dan Nycholat's point shot was stopped by the quick glove of Mark Friesen who made a tough glove save with traffic in front. Before the powerplay ended Vernon would take a minor giving the Chiefs a short man advantage, but with no shots on goal, Vernon would kill off the minor. Vernon was the better of the two teams in the 1st getting some good quality chances but they couldnt beat Friesen who was sharp. Langley didnt record their first shot of the night until eight minutes into the hockey game. Mitch Pacey played a very physical game, laid out Bryce Kakoske twice in the period. Cole Ikkala with a great chance from the side of the net was robbed by a diving Friesen. Vernon carried most of the play as the Chiefs had troubles generating any kind of attack. The Vipers would finally solve Mark Friesen late in the period, Cole Ikkala setup Braden Pimm at 18:12 putting Vernon up 1-0. Ikkala & Mike Collins with the helpers. The Vipers would be up 1-0 after 20 minutes of play. Vernon outshot Langley 15-7.
2nd Period: Mike Collins was robbed in front by the glove of Mark Friesen on a great early scoring chance. The Vipers would get an early powerplay and take advantage. Cole Ikkala would setup Mike Collins in the slot who beat Friesen fivewhole at 4:30 giving the Vipers a 2-0 lead. Ikkala & Braden Pimm with the assists. Off the draw the Chiefs would get their second powerplay of the night. Kellen & Connor Jones would go in shorthanded, as Kellen setup Connor who beat Friesen at 4:51 giving the Vipers a 3-0 lead and in full control. Kellen Jones & Garrett Noonan with the assists. This was the turning point of tonights game. Langley would get just one real quality chance with the man advantage. Trevor Gerling with a screened shot from the point somehow got through but was stopped by Blake Voth who had to make his biggest save of the night. Vernon would kill off the minor and then take over control of the play for a solid five or six minutes with some good cycle down low. Connor Jones, Kellen Jones and David Robinson worked the puck down low, buzzing in the Chiefs zone creating some chances. Vernon was unable to score as back come Langley with a few good chances. Brandon Thompson was stopped by Voth. Vernon would go back on the man advantage, Dan Nycholats blast from the circle beat Friesen upstairs at 10:28 as Vernon went ahead 4-0 and were in full control of tonights game. Bryce Kakoske & Rob Short collected the assists. Langley would come real close to scoring, Brandon Thompsons shot was stopped by Voth as the rebound laid out in the crease and somehow Captain Mac Roy couldnt put the loose puck into the empty goal as the Vipers were lucky to excape on that scoring chance. Langley mustered a few chances but again Vernon controlled and carried the better of the play for most of the period. Mark Friesen played well making some good saves keeping the Chiefs in the game. On a turnover in the Vipers zone, Brade McBride setup Trevor Gerling who put a nice move around the Vernon d-man and around Blake Voth to get the Chiefs on the board at 14:41. McBride with the lone assist. Vernon was up 4-1 after 40 minutes of play. The Vipers outshot the Chiefs 152-7.
3rd Period: Mac Roy with a good chance early was stopped by Blake Voth. Ryan Hankin had a good chance but just missed the far corner. Connor Jones & David Robinson went in two on one but the two couldnt hit the net on a great chance. Langley would get an early powerplay but once again Connor & Kellen Jones went in two on one shorthanded, Kellen with a nice pass over to Connor who couldnt connect on the pass. Vernon looked very dangerous on the penalty kill all night getting some good chances. Rob Short with some good hustle on an odd man rush shorthanded hit the crossbar as the Vipers would kill off the minor. Things started to heat up early into the final period as both teams were yapping back and forth at one another, Sahir Gill two handed Tim Daly, Daly went back with a wack at Gill as both players were yapping at one another. The Chiefs didnt back down from the physical play, laying some clean good checks on the Vipers. The play seemed to slow down a little with very little chances at either ends of the rink. Just before the midway mark Jordan Sims knocked over Blake Voth behind the Vipers net, wich caused a mini linebrawl. Dan Nycholat & Jonathan Milhouse both jumped in right away as tempers started to heat up. Vernon would get a powerplay out of the mayley but would struggle as the Chiefs would kill off the minor. Shortly after Braden Pimm with a quick wrist shot from the circle was stopped by the glove of Mark Friesen. Vernon took their foot off the gas as the period went along as the Chiefs would get some decent chances but no real scoring threat as both teams looked to winding down the clock. In the end Vernon would win its second straight with a 5-1 victory over Langley. The Vipers outshot the Chiefs 12-11.
Top Players: (Vernon)
The line of Braden Pimm (1 goal & 2 assists), Mike Collins (1 goal & 1 assist) & Cole Ikkala (1 goal & 2 assists) was Vernons best line. Pimm like always played a heck of a game, showed alot of hustle, worked hard at both ends of the rink. Cole Ikkala has really come along latley and playing very well for the Vipers. Ikkala for the second straight night played very strong up front, showed alot of hustle and determination. Was hard to knock off the puck.
The line of Connor Jones (1 goal), Kellen Jones (1 assist) & David Robinson played well. Connor & Kellen Jones were very strong and dangerous on the penalty kill all night. This line was very solid and dangerous down low with the cycle, especially at one point in the 2nd period.
Garrett Noonan (2 assists) Played a strong game on the Vipers backend. Noonan looked very confident tonight, made some nice heads up plays.
Dan Nycholat (1 goal) Also played a good defensive game, scored a real nice goal on the powerplay in the 2nd period. Nice to see Nycholat jump in after the hit on Blake Voth.
Blake Voth (24 saves) Didnt really have to make any real tough saves but made the big save when needed. Voth saw very little action in the opening period but saw a little more in the final two periods. Played his second straight game, looked confident between the pipes. Will Blake get the start in goal next game vs Powell River?
Top Players: (Langley)
Trevor Gerling was the Chiefs best player tonight. Gerling with a few real nice chances, scored a highlight real goal at the end of the 2nd period. This kid is quick, has some nice hands and drives to the net.
Mitch Pacey This kid is huge, played a very physical game. Laid out Bryce Kakoske twice in the 1st period. Plays gritty, is a physical presence out there, most Vipers were always looking over their shoulder when he was on the ice.
Mac Roy had a few chances, didnt stand out the entire game but played well for the most part.
Brad Bakken played a solid game on the Langley blueline. I was very impressed with this kid, a good solid d-man.
Mark Friesen (35 saves) Played a strong game between the pipes for Langley. This kid kept the Chiefs in tonights game, or the score could have been alot worse. Friesen has a very quick but very good glovehand. Made a good three or four good glove saves. Played his position very well, no big rebounds, lost just his fourth game of the season.
Game Thoughts: (Vernon)
Another big win vs a strong Coastal Conference team. The Vipers needed the win tonight to keep one point ahead of the Penticton Vees who defeated Quesnel tonight 4-1. I was very pleased with the Vipers effort and overall game tonight, looked very strong and dangerous for most of the night. Vernons penalty kill was very solid and deadly scoring once shorthanded but getting several good quality chances. The Vipers were skating, moving the puck well and got lots of good chances, I also thought they played very well defensively shutting down Langleys offencesive attack. Vernon was the better of the two teams, carrying the better of the play for most of the game. Nice to see Jonathan Milhouse & Dan Nycholat stand up for Blake Voth after the hit in the 3rd period. The Vipers have now won two straight and swept the two game season series with Langley.
Game Thoughts: (Langley)
This was the Chiefs third game in three nights and you could see it. Langley a big physical team, couldnt get much offence going for most of the night, just a few good quality chances were basically not rewally in tonights game. Struggled on the powerplay giving up way too many odd man rushes and chances shorthanded. Giving up the 3rd Vernon goal shorthanded was the turning point, if Langley scores and dosnt give up the goal, we have a 2-1 hockey game & maybe gives the Chiefs a little momentum.
Scratches:
Vernon:
Darren Robak
Patrick McGillis
Langley:
Brad Goss
Max Fielder
Kevin Tuohy
Justin Lachance
3 Stars:
1st Star: Cole Ikkala (1 goal & 2 assists)
2nd Star: Braden Pimm (1 goal & 2 assists)
3rd Star: Garrett Noonan (2 assists)
Starting Goaltenders:
Vernon: Blake Voth
Langley: Mark Friesen
1st Period: Off the opening draw, on Vernons first rush up ice, David Robinson with a quick wrist shot from the circle was stopped by Mark Friesen. On the next rush back come the Chiefs, Brad McBride with a chance in front but just missed the net. The Vipers moving the puck well, created chances on several occasions in the opening period. Cory Kane with a backhand was robbed by the quick glove of Friesen. Vernon would get the games first powerplay of the night. Dan Nycholat's point shot was stopped by the quick glove of Mark Friesen who made a tough glove save with traffic in front. Before the powerplay ended Vernon would take a minor giving the Chiefs a short man advantage, but with no shots on goal, Vernon would kill off the minor. Vernon was the better of the two teams in the 1st getting some good quality chances but they couldnt beat Friesen who was sharp. Langley didnt record their first shot of the night until eight minutes into the hockey game. Mitch Pacey played a very physical game, laid out Bryce Kakoske twice in the period. Cole Ikkala with a great chance from the side of the net was robbed by a diving Friesen. Vernon carried most of the play as the Chiefs had troubles generating any kind of attack. The Vipers would finally solve Mark Friesen late in the period, Cole Ikkala setup Braden Pimm at 18:12 putting Vernon up 1-0. Ikkala & Mike Collins with the helpers. The Vipers would be up 1-0 after 20 minutes of play. Vernon outshot Langley 15-7.
2nd Period: Mike Collins was robbed in front by the glove of Mark Friesen on a great early scoring chance. The Vipers would get an early powerplay and take advantage. Cole Ikkala would setup Mike Collins in the slot who beat Friesen fivewhole at 4:30 giving the Vipers a 2-0 lead. Ikkala & Braden Pimm with the assists. Off the draw the Chiefs would get their second powerplay of the night. Kellen & Connor Jones would go in shorthanded, as Kellen setup Connor who beat Friesen at 4:51 giving the Vipers a 3-0 lead and in full control. Kellen Jones & Garrett Noonan with the assists. This was the turning point of tonights game. Langley would get just one real quality chance with the man advantage. Trevor Gerling with a screened shot from the point somehow got through but was stopped by Blake Voth who had to make his biggest save of the night. Vernon would kill off the minor and then take over control of the play for a solid five or six minutes with some good cycle down low. Connor Jones, Kellen Jones and David Robinson worked the puck down low, buzzing in the Chiefs zone creating some chances. Vernon was unable to score as back come Langley with a few good chances. Brandon Thompson was stopped by Voth. Vernon would go back on the man advantage, Dan Nycholats blast from the circle beat Friesen upstairs at 10:28 as Vernon went ahead 4-0 and were in full control of tonights game. Bryce Kakoske & Rob Short collected the assists. Langley would come real close to scoring, Brandon Thompsons shot was stopped by Voth as the rebound laid out in the crease and somehow Captain Mac Roy couldnt put the loose puck into the empty goal as the Vipers were lucky to excape on that scoring chance. Langley mustered a few chances but again Vernon controlled and carried the better of the play for most of the period. Mark Friesen played well making some good saves keeping the Chiefs in the game. On a turnover in the Vipers zone, Brade McBride setup Trevor Gerling who put a nice move around the Vernon d-man and around Blake Voth to get the Chiefs on the board at 14:41. McBride with the lone assist. Vernon was up 4-1 after 40 minutes of play. The Vipers outshot the Chiefs 152-7.
3rd Period: Mac Roy with a good chance early was stopped by Blake Voth. Ryan Hankin had a good chance but just missed the far corner. Connor Jones & David Robinson went in two on one but the two couldnt hit the net on a great chance. Langley would get an early powerplay but once again Connor & Kellen Jones went in two on one shorthanded, Kellen with a nice pass over to Connor who couldnt connect on the pass. Vernon looked very dangerous on the penalty kill all night getting some good chances. Rob Short with some good hustle on an odd man rush shorthanded hit the crossbar as the Vipers would kill off the minor. Things started to heat up early into the final period as both teams were yapping back and forth at one another, Sahir Gill two handed Tim Daly, Daly went back with a wack at Gill as both players were yapping at one another. The Chiefs didnt back down from the physical play, laying some clean good checks on the Vipers. The play seemed to slow down a little with very little chances at either ends of the rink. Just before the midway mark Jordan Sims knocked over Blake Voth behind the Vipers net, wich caused a mini linebrawl. Dan Nycholat & Jonathan Milhouse both jumped in right away as tempers started to heat up. Vernon would get a powerplay out of the mayley but would struggle as the Chiefs would kill off the minor. Shortly after Braden Pimm with a quick wrist shot from the circle was stopped by the glove of Mark Friesen. Vernon took their foot off the gas as the period went along as the Chiefs would get some decent chances but no real scoring threat as both teams looked to winding down the clock. In the end Vernon would win its second straight with a 5-1 victory over Langley. The Vipers outshot the Chiefs 12-11.
Top Players: (Vernon)
The line of Braden Pimm (1 goal & 2 assists), Mike Collins (1 goal & 1 assist) & Cole Ikkala (1 goal & 2 assists) was Vernons best line. Pimm like always played a heck of a game, showed alot of hustle, worked hard at both ends of the rink. Cole Ikkala has really come along latley and playing very well for the Vipers. Ikkala for the second straight night played very strong up front, showed alot of hustle and determination. Was hard to knock off the puck.
The line of Connor Jones (1 goal), Kellen Jones (1 assist) & David Robinson played well. Connor & Kellen Jones were very strong and dangerous on the penalty kill all night. This line was very solid and dangerous down low with the cycle, especially at one point in the 2nd period.
Garrett Noonan (2 assists) Played a strong game on the Vipers backend. Noonan looked very confident tonight, made some nice heads up plays.
Dan Nycholat (1 goal) Also played a good defensive game, scored a real nice goal on the powerplay in the 2nd period. Nice to see Nycholat jump in after the hit on Blake Voth.
Blake Voth (24 saves) Didnt really have to make any real tough saves but made the big save when needed. Voth saw very little action in the opening period but saw a little more in the final two periods. Played his second straight game, looked confident between the pipes. Will Blake get the start in goal next game vs Powell River?
Top Players: (Langley)
Trevor Gerling was the Chiefs best player tonight. Gerling with a few real nice chances, scored a highlight real goal at the end of the 2nd period. This kid is quick, has some nice hands and drives to the net.
Mitch Pacey This kid is huge, played a very physical game. Laid out Bryce Kakoske twice in the 1st period. Plays gritty, is a physical presence out there, most Vipers were always looking over their shoulder when he was on the ice.
Mac Roy had a few chances, didnt stand out the entire game but played well for the most part.
Brad Bakken played a solid game on the Langley blueline. I was very impressed with this kid, a good solid d-man.
Mark Friesen (35 saves) Played a strong game between the pipes for Langley. This kid kept the Chiefs in tonights game, or the score could have been alot worse. Friesen has a very quick but very good glovehand. Made a good three or four good glove saves. Played his position very well, no big rebounds, lost just his fourth game of the season.
Game Thoughts: (Vernon)
Another big win vs a strong Coastal Conference team. The Vipers needed the win tonight to keep one point ahead of the Penticton Vees who defeated Quesnel tonight 4-1. I was very pleased with the Vipers effort and overall game tonight, looked very strong and dangerous for most of the night. Vernons penalty kill was very solid and deadly scoring once shorthanded but getting several good quality chances. The Vipers were skating, moving the puck well and got lots of good chances, I also thought they played very well defensively shutting down Langleys offencesive attack. Vernon was the better of the two teams, carrying the better of the play for most of the game. Nice to see Jonathan Milhouse & Dan Nycholat stand up for Blake Voth after the hit in the 3rd period. The Vipers have now won two straight and swept the two game season series with Langley.
Game Thoughts: (Langley)
This was the Chiefs third game in three nights and you could see it. Langley a big physical team, couldnt get much offence going for most of the night, just a few good quality chances were basically not rewally in tonights game. Struggled on the powerplay giving up way too many odd man rushes and chances shorthanded. Giving up the 3rd Vernon goal shorthanded was the turning point, if Langley scores and dosnt give up the goal, we have a 2-1 hockey game & maybe gives the Chiefs a little momentum.
Scratches:
Vernon:
Darren Robak
Patrick McGillis
Langley:
Brad Goss
Max Fielder
Kevin Tuohy
Justin Lachance
3 Stars:
1st Star: Cole Ikkala (1 goal & 2 assists)
2nd Star: Braden Pimm (1 goal & 2 assists)
3rd Star: Garrett Noonan (2 assists)
(Game Preview) Langley @ Vernon:
Langley (30-18-1-3) @ Vernon (42-6-0-2)Last Game Played:
Friday January 29th Vernon defeated Powell River 5-2
Friday January 29th Salmon Arm defeated Langley 5-4 in Overtime
Tonight is the second meeting of the season between the defending Royal Bank Cup Champion Vernon Vipers & the Langley Chiefs. The Vipers are on a one game winning streak, while the Chiefs are riding a single game losing streak.
Let’s take a look at the Vernon Vipers:
The Vipers currently sit #1 overall in the league as the BCHL’s best team & #2 overall in Canada with a record of 42-6-0-2 just a single point up on the 2nd place Penticton Vees. Vernon has scored 250 goals and given up the least amount of goals with just 96. Vernon is 20-4-0-1 at home & is 22-2-0-1 on the road. The Vipers are 8-2-0-0 in their last 10 games. The Vipers have three players in the leagues top 20 in scoring. Mike Collins (25-42-67), Connor Jones (30-35-65) & Braden Pimm (22-37-59). Blake Voth leads the league as the BCHL’s top goaltender. Voth has a record of 13-1 with 3 shutouts and a GAA of 1.54
Players To Watch:
Mike Collins (25-42-67)
Connor Jones (30-35-65)
Braden Pimm (22-37-59)
Jonathan Milhouse (19-31-50)
Dylan Walchuk (19-27-46)
Kellen Jones (9-34-43)
Cory Kane (20-22-42)
Bryce Kakoske (12-25-37)
Rob Short (16-21-37)
Cole Ikkala (18-18-36)
Dan Nycholat (4-31-35)
Kevin Kraus (4-19-23)
Curtis Gedig (11-8-19)
Sahir Gill (0-2-2)
Graeme Gordon (29-7 Record-1 Shutout 2.03 GAA)
Blake Voth (13-1 Record-3 Shutouts-1.54 GAA)
The Vipers need to jump on a Chiefs team that is playing their third game in three nights.
Vernon needs to use their speed and skill to their advantage.
Goaltending & specialty teams will be key tonight.
The Vipers need to stay away from the after the whistle pushing and shoving. Harvey Smyl is well known to have a very feisty and physical hockey team that likes to get under the skin of their opponents.
Vernon cant afford to take a loss tonight with the Penticton Vees just a single point back who are playing the Quesnel Millionaires tonight.
Let’s take a look at the Langley Chiefs:
The Chiefs currently sit in 3rd place in the Coastal Conference with a record of 30-18-1-3 just a single point back of the Powell River Kings. The Chiefs have scored 203 goals but have had troubles keeping the puck out of the net, giving up 177 goals. Lamgley is 18-10-1-0 on home ice & 12-8-0-3 on the road. The Chiefs are 7-2-0-1 in their last 10 games. Langley has two players in the leagues top 20 in scoring, Colton Beck (36-43-79) & Brandon Thompson (16-39-55)
Harvey Smyl and the Langley Chiefs wont forget the 6-2 loss to the Vipers in langley back in November, so you can bet the boys will be looking for some revenge tonight.
Langley is on a six game road trip, tonight is currently the third game in three nights. The Chiefs come up with a 4-1 win over Trail Thursday night, but fell 5-4 in Overtime up in Salmon Arm last night.
The Chiefs need to play rough and physical against a much smaller Vernon hockey club.
Langley’s last visit to Vernon was two years ago back on September 21st as the Vipers skated away with a 5-4 victory. Last season the Vipers played the Chiefs once with the game played in Langley.
The Chiefs are playing their best hockey of the season as of late. January 17th Alberni Valley stopped Langleys 12 game winning streak. Since that loss the Chiefs are 3-2.
Players To Watch:
Colton Beck (36-43-79)
Brandon Thompson (16-39-55)
Mac Roy (25-25-50)
Trevor Gerling (11-33-44)
Josh Myers (24-16-40)
Tim Daly (10-24-34)
Mark Friesen (13-3 Record 2.92 GAA
Heres a look at the season series between these two teams:
Saturday November 21st @ Langley: Vernon wins 6-2
SCORING SUMMARY
PERIOD 1
Vernon Vipers at 12:28 (PP) - Kellen Jones from Dan Nycholat
Langley Chiefs at 18:45 - Mac Roy from Colton Beck and Brandon Thompson
Vernon Vipers at 19:41 - Cole Ikkala from Kevin Kraus
PERIOD 2
Vernon Vipers at 5:06 - Cory Kane from Kellen Jones and Connor Jones
Vernon Vipers at 15:13 - Connor Jones from Kellen Jones and Cory Kane
Vernon Vipers at 17:30 - Connor Jones from Kellen Jones and Cory Kane
PERIOD 3
Vernon Vipers at 1:31 - Mike Collins from Braden Pimm and Kevin Kraus
Langley Chiefs at 7:19 (PP) - Mac Roy from Tim Daly and Kevin Tuohy
Vernon outshot Langley 40-25. Blake Voth made 23 saves for the win, while Andrew Walsh made 34 saves taking the loss.
http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxScores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=712734
Here's a look at both team's rosters:
Vernon:
Mike Collins
Braden Pimm
Cory Kane
Dylan Walchuk
Jonathan Milhouse
Cole Ikkala
Kevin Kraus
Connor Jones
Dan Nycholat
Curtis Gedig
Adam Thompson
David Robinson
Steven Weinstein
Kellen Jones
Rob Short
Sahir Gill
Bryce Kakoske
Garrett Noonan
Patrick McGillis
Darrin Robak
Blake Voth
Graeme Gordon
Langley:
Colton Beck
Brandon Thompson
Mac Roy
Trevor Gerling
Josh Myers
Tim Daly
Dennis Robertson
Jordan Sims
Brad Goss
Colten Hayes
Kevin Tuohy
Brad McBride
Brad Bakken
Ryan Bakken
Ryan Hankin
Joe Walter
Matt Cronin
Tyler Miller
Mitch Pacey
Kody Dhaliwal
Max Fiedler
Mark Friesen
Wyatt Galley
Vipers Player Profile Wityh Rob Short:
Kiss FM's Rob Abramenko has once again made one of his great Vernon Vipers video's, Abro just finished player profile with Vipers forward, Rob Short. Check it out,http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7ogc3BUAEh0
Vipers Outlast Kings:
This is posted on the Vipers website:
Vipers outlast Kings
by Don Klepp | Added 2010-01-29
Balanced scoring and strong goaltending led the Vernon Vipers to a home ice 5-2 win over the Powell River Kings, although the Kings gave the 1876 Viper fans a scare with two Chad Niddery strikes in the third period.
The Vipers depth showed in this contest as all four lines contributed goals. Mike Collins got the ball rolling in the first period with a power play goal. He circled with the puck, looking for an opening, and then zipped a 25-foot wrister past Josh Watson.
Dylan Walchuk followed with a crease tap in after Jonathan Milhouse’s determined net drive, and the Vipers went into the first intermission with a 2-0 lead. Despite dominating the first three shifts of the game, the Kings were out shot 13-3 in the period.
Again in the second period, the Kings came out of the room with a relentless forecheck and they had the edge in play for much of the first half of the period. However, the Vipers bounced back with a Cole Ikkala goal at the 10-minute mark. On the rush, Collins shot the puck to the corner for Braden Pimm to retrieve, and Pimm immediately located Ikkala coming through the slot for a one-timer.
Referee Mike Basford got into the act, calling two marginal Viper penalties that gave Powell River a five-on-three advantage for 1 minute 27 seconds. The Kings, who had been held without a shot on two first-period power plays, peppered Blake Voth, but the young netminder made two sensational saves among his several stops.
Again, the Kings started the third period gritty de3termination, but were unable to solve Voth. Then, against the run of play, Kellen drove hard to the net and squeezed the opuck through Watson.
At that point, the Vipers started to play as if the game were over, but the Kings kept on coming. They were rewarded with two Chad Niddery goals from in close, and they came close on three other occasions. After their coach, Mark Ferner, called a timeout at about the 12-minute mark, the Vipers settled down and held the Kings to three shots on goal from that point.
Rob Short capped the scoring with an empty netter at 18.24 after alertly intercepting a point pass and leaving two defenders in his wake.
The two teams will resume their rivalry in Powell River this coming Thursday, to make up the November 18 game postponed by bad weather.
In the meantime, Powell River gets ready to finish its road trip with a game in Salmon Arm Saturday, and the Vipers await the Langley Chiefs, who lost 5-4 in the second overtime in Salmon Arm Friday.
Vipers outlast Kings
by Don Klepp | Added 2010-01-29
Balanced scoring and strong goaltending led the Vernon Vipers to a home ice 5-2 win over the Powell River Kings, although the Kings gave the 1876 Viper fans a scare with two Chad Niddery strikes in the third period.
The Vipers depth showed in this contest as all four lines contributed goals. Mike Collins got the ball rolling in the first period with a power play goal. He circled with the puck, looking for an opening, and then zipped a 25-foot wrister past Josh Watson.
Dylan Walchuk followed with a crease tap in after Jonathan Milhouse’s determined net drive, and the Vipers went into the first intermission with a 2-0 lead. Despite dominating the first three shifts of the game, the Kings were out shot 13-3 in the period.
Again in the second period, the Kings came out of the room with a relentless forecheck and they had the edge in play for much of the first half of the period. However, the Vipers bounced back with a Cole Ikkala goal at the 10-minute mark. On the rush, Collins shot the puck to the corner for Braden Pimm to retrieve, and Pimm immediately located Ikkala coming through the slot for a one-timer.
Referee Mike Basford got into the act, calling two marginal Viper penalties that gave Powell River a five-on-three advantage for 1 minute 27 seconds. The Kings, who had been held without a shot on two first-period power plays, peppered Blake Voth, but the young netminder made two sensational saves among his several stops.
Again, the Kings started the third period gritty de3termination, but were unable to solve Voth. Then, against the run of play, Kellen drove hard to the net and squeezed the opuck through Watson.
At that point, the Vipers started to play as if the game were over, but the Kings kept on coming. They were rewarded with two Chad Niddery goals from in close, and they came close on three other occasions. After their coach, Mark Ferner, called a timeout at about the 12-minute mark, the Vipers settled down and held the Kings to three shots on goal from that point.
Rob Short capped the scoring with an empty netter at 18.24 after alertly intercepting a point pass and leaving two defenders in his wake.
The two teams will resume their rivalry in Powell River this coming Thursday, to make up the November 18 game postponed by bad weather.
In the meantime, Powell River gets ready to finish its road trip with a game in Salmon Arm Saturday, and the Vipers await the Langley Chiefs, who lost 5-4 in the second overtime in Salmon Arm Friday.
Friday, January 29, 2010
Vernon 5 Powell River 2
I was at tonights BCHL game as Vernon defeated Powell River 5-2 in front of 1,876 fans at the Wesbild Centre.
Starting Goaltenders:
Vernon: Blake Voth
Powell River: Josh Watson
1st Period: Powell River come out with some good jump, got the play in deep, and really moved the puck well in the Vipers zone. The Kings who are a quick skating team, controlled the edge in play early putting some good pressure deep in the Vernon zone. With the cycle going down low the Kings were unable to create any good quality scoring chances. Powell River was also playing a physical game early taking the body on any chance they had. The Kings carried the play in the opening few minutes but come up with just a single shot before the Vipers turned the play around, coming back with some pressure of their own. Cory Kane had Vernons best scoring chance getting off a quick wrist shot from the circle, as Josh Watson made the routine save. Dan Nycholats point shot was scooped up in front by Dlyan Walchuk, Walchuk with two real good chances in front was stopped by Watson who made two big saves. The Kings would get the first powerplay of the night but wouldnt register a single shot with the man advantage as Vernon would kill off the minor. Shortly after Powell River would head back to the powerplay but once again wouldnt record a shot with the man advantage as the Vipers killed off the minor. Not much action as the period went along, as both teams couldnt seem to generate much offence. Vernon would get its first powerplay of the game and take advantage. Braden Pimm setup Mike Collins in the slot who wired one past Josh Watson at 12:19 putting the Vipers up 1-0. Pimm & Dan Nycholat with the assists. Just three minutes later the Vipers would go back on the man advantage but this time the Kings penalty kill would kill off the minor. Dylan Walchuk put Vernon up 2-0 at 18:03 Jonathan Milhouse & Cory Kane collected the helpers. Powell River couldnt generate much offence as the Vipers were up 2-0 after 20 minutes of play. Vernon outshot Powell River 13-3.
2nd Period: Once again the Kings with some good early pressure got the play in deep and really moved the puck well in the Vernon zone. The Vipers back on their heels had troubles clearing the zone. Daniel Carr with Powell Rivers best scoring chance was stopped by Blake Voth. Reid Campbells point shot somehow got through a maze of players but Voth managed to make the save with traffic in front. The Kings got off to a good start just like the opening period but this period managed to create and generate some offence. Powell River controlled the edge in play for the first few minutes getting some good chances but couldnt beat Voth. Vernon finally got things moving and took over for the remainder of the 2nd period. Rob Short was all alone in front but was stopped by Josh Watson who made a big save in close. Braden Pimm with some great individual effort carried the puck from behind the goal, cut towards the net but was stopped by Watson. Adam Thompsons point shot was tipped in front by Kellen Jones but somehow Watson made the pad save. Jonathan Milhouse setup Dylan Walchuk on an odd man rush as Watson slide across to make the big save. The Vipers hardwork finally paid off, Braden Pimm setup Cole Ikkala in the slot who beat Watson low to the ice at 10:00 putting Vernon up 3-0. Pimm & Mike Collins with the assists. Just over three minutes later the Vipers would get their third powerplay of the night but couldnt capitalise. Late in the middle frame Powell River would get a long five on three powerplay. The Kings would get three good chances but for the most part Vernons penalty kill was solid killing off the two man advantage. Braden Pimm had a great chance one on one shorthanded but ran out of room and couldnt get off a shot. The Vipers played very well in the 2nd period having the edge in play up 3-0 after 40 minutes of play. Vernon outshot Powell River 13-11.
3rd Period: The Kings come out gunning, once again getting the play in deep, moving the puck well Powell River come up with plent of good quality chances early. The Vipers looked very flat, standing around watching the Kings skate circles around them. Powell River with two or three good chances in close couldnt beat Blake Voth. The Kings had the Vipers hemmed in their own end, but couldnt find the back of the net. On the Vipers first breakout Kellen Jones would drive towards the net hard beating Watson at 4:43 putting Vernon up 4-0. Connor Jones & David Robinson added the assists. The Kings control the first four and a half minutes in the Vipers zone and couldnt score, back come the Vipers with one chance and hit the back of the net. Powell River didnt back down, back come the Kings and just less then a minute later Brenden Forbes setup Chad Niddery in front who beat Blake Voth at 5:31 putting the Kings on the scoreboard. Forbes & Teagan Waugh adding the assists. The Kings kept plugging away, coming right back with more pressure deep in the Vipers zone. Vernon was caught standing around for most of the first half of the final period. Daniel Carr with a chance in front was stopped by Voth who saw his most action of the night. Chad Niddery would get his second of the night at 8:49 cutting the Vernon lead to 4-2 Mat Bodie & Ben Schmidt with the helpers. Mark Ferner then decided to call a timeout after his club was being outworked and outplayed all 3rd period. after the timeout off the draw Matt Garbowsky would be alone in the slot and wire his shot off the crossbar after having Blake Voth beat as the Kings didnt quit. Powell River looked very good getting lots of good chances. Chad Niddery then with a great chance couldnt beat Voth who played very well tonight. Andrew Pettitt with a chance was stopped by Voth. The Vipers who quit skating almost let the Kings to just skate around leaving them untouched. The Vipers would finally get the play out of their own end and generate some offence of their own after Powell River basically carried the play deep in the Vernon zone for the first 12 minutes of the 3rd. The play would go back and forth for most of the remainder of the period with both teams getting some decent chances but no real solid scoring plays. With 1:52 left Powell River would pull Watson for the extra attacker, Matt Grabowsky would get a great chance in front, but was stoned by Blake Voth, who then had to slide to the side of the net and rob Jordan Grant who also had a great chance on the rebound. Just after Rob Short would pick up the loose puck and go in for the breakaway hitting the empty net to put Vernon up 5-2 at 18:24 Shorts goal was unassisted. In the dying seconds Cody Rainaldi with a shot from the slot just missed the far corner. The Vipers got lucky and hung on for the 5-2 victory. Powell River outshot Vernon 10-5.
Top Players: (Vernon)
Dylan Walchuk (1 goal) Looked very strong for Vernon up front. Walchuk has really come along latley and played very well tonight. His speed, hustle and stick handling abbilities were very good tonight.
Cole Ikkala (1 goal) Also played and looked very good up front tonight. Ikkala was also skating well, really powered his way through the Kings zone tonight. Scored a real nice goal midway through the 2nd period.
Braden Pimm (2 assists) Pimm was usual self tonight, played very well at both ends of the rink. Showed alot of hustle, worked hard with and without the puck, was very hard to knock off the puck tonight. Was strong on the penalty kill and down low in the Kings zone. Was Vernons hardest worker tonight, thats for sure.
Steve Weinstein played a quiet but yet solid game for the Vipers on the blueline. Went for a huge check in the opening period after having a Kings player lined up, but just missed him at the last second.
Adam Thompson also played a very quiet but yet solid game on the backend. Thompson does all the little things that get unnoticed.
Blake Voth (22 saves) Didnt really have any action in the 1st period (3 shots) made a few good saves in the 2nd but really had to be sharp and play well in the 3rd when the Vipers went to sleep.
Top Players: (Powell River)
The line of Chad Niddery (2 goals), Daniel Carr & Matt Grabowsky was the Kings top offensive unit. This was the Kings go ttoo line, who did most of the damage. Niddery wasnt very noticable in the opening period but played his best hockey in the 3rd scoring 2 goals. Played well at both ends of the rink, showed alot of hustle coming back to break up an odd man rush after just getting a good scoring chance. Carr played very well and had most of the Kings scoring chances.
Reid Campbell played very well on the Kings blueline. A solid defenceman.
Darcy Huisman also played very well on the Powell River backend.
Brenden Forbes looked alright up front for the Kings. Had a few chances.
Game Thoughts: (Vernon)
It took the Vipers a bit to get going in the 1st period but seemed to settle down and were the better of the two teams for most of the first two periods. Vernon then fell asleep in the 3rd and managed to hang on for the big 5-2 win. This was a huge win as Penticton defeated Merritt tonight 7-2 so the Vipers are still just a single point ahead of the Vees for top spot in the Interior. Once the Vipers went up two goals and then up 3-0 its almost like they were sitting back playing a more defensive style of game, laying off the offence. Vernons penalty kill looked very good tonight, played very well on the five on three. I was very impressed with the Vipers defence in the 1st and 2nd periods, really shut down the Kings attack but sure looked flat in the 3rd. Both teams had some good scoring chances but tonights game didnt have a real good flow to it, atleast I thought. Maybe it was cause we havnt seen the Kings yet and we dont really know much about them, I just found tonights game not to be all that entertaining. The Vipers were lucky to hang on to tonights game, a bounce here or there or if Kellen Jones dosnt score that fouth goal, we got ourselfs a great finish.
Game Thoughts: (Powell River)
The Kings got off to a good start, come out strong, skating hard, moving the puck well, laying the body but couldnt generate much offensive attack. As the 1st went on the Kings couldnt seem to get much of anything going falling down 2-0. Going 0-2 on the man advantage getting no shots dosnt help either. Another good start to the 2nd period, this time creating and getting some good quality chances but couldnt beat Blake Voth. The Kings couldnt keep up the sustained pressure and then lost the 2nd period as Vernon was by far the better of the teams in the middle frame. Kent Lewis must have had a good chat with the boys between periods as Powell River come ready to play in the 3rd and basically dominated the first 12 minutes of the period getting all kinds of chances. After not being able to capitalise the Vipers come back on their first rush of the period and score, if this was a time when they needed a big save, this was it. Watson didnt have a chance on the Jones goal. Give Powell River credit they battled hard in the 3rd gettig all kinds of chances, Chad Niddery scored two huge goals giving them life and then Matt Grabowsky hits the crossbar or else we would have a one goal game with lots of time left. The Kings didnt quit and got two good chances with the goalie out but just couldnt beat Blake Voth. I figure if the Kings would have played like they did in the 3rd the whole game, we may have seen a different score on the scoreboard at the end of the night. Nice to see a good handfull of Kings fans who made the long trip up.
Scratches:
Vernon:
Darren Robak
Patrick McGillis
Powell River:
Brandon Formosa
Alex McDougall
Robbie Bailey
3 Stars:
1st Star: Braden Pimm (2 assists)
2nd Star: Chad Niddery (2 goals)
3rd Star: Cole Ikkala (1 goal)
Starting Goaltenders:
Vernon: Blake Voth
Powell River: Josh Watson
1st Period: Powell River come out with some good jump, got the play in deep, and really moved the puck well in the Vipers zone. The Kings who are a quick skating team, controlled the edge in play early putting some good pressure deep in the Vernon zone. With the cycle going down low the Kings were unable to create any good quality scoring chances. Powell River was also playing a physical game early taking the body on any chance they had. The Kings carried the play in the opening few minutes but come up with just a single shot before the Vipers turned the play around, coming back with some pressure of their own. Cory Kane had Vernons best scoring chance getting off a quick wrist shot from the circle, as Josh Watson made the routine save. Dan Nycholats point shot was scooped up in front by Dlyan Walchuk, Walchuk with two real good chances in front was stopped by Watson who made two big saves. The Kings would get the first powerplay of the night but wouldnt register a single shot with the man advantage as Vernon would kill off the minor. Shortly after Powell River would head back to the powerplay but once again wouldnt record a shot with the man advantage as the Vipers killed off the minor. Not much action as the period went along, as both teams couldnt seem to generate much offence. Vernon would get its first powerplay of the game and take advantage. Braden Pimm setup Mike Collins in the slot who wired one past Josh Watson at 12:19 putting the Vipers up 1-0. Pimm & Dan Nycholat with the assists. Just three minutes later the Vipers would go back on the man advantage but this time the Kings penalty kill would kill off the minor. Dylan Walchuk put Vernon up 2-0 at 18:03 Jonathan Milhouse & Cory Kane collected the helpers. Powell River couldnt generate much offence as the Vipers were up 2-0 after 20 minutes of play. Vernon outshot Powell River 13-3.
2nd Period: Once again the Kings with some good early pressure got the play in deep and really moved the puck well in the Vernon zone. The Vipers back on their heels had troubles clearing the zone. Daniel Carr with Powell Rivers best scoring chance was stopped by Blake Voth. Reid Campbells point shot somehow got through a maze of players but Voth managed to make the save with traffic in front. The Kings got off to a good start just like the opening period but this period managed to create and generate some offence. Powell River controlled the edge in play for the first few minutes getting some good chances but couldnt beat Voth. Vernon finally got things moving and took over for the remainder of the 2nd period. Rob Short was all alone in front but was stopped by Josh Watson who made a big save in close. Braden Pimm with some great individual effort carried the puck from behind the goal, cut towards the net but was stopped by Watson. Adam Thompsons point shot was tipped in front by Kellen Jones but somehow Watson made the pad save. Jonathan Milhouse setup Dylan Walchuk on an odd man rush as Watson slide across to make the big save. The Vipers hardwork finally paid off, Braden Pimm setup Cole Ikkala in the slot who beat Watson low to the ice at 10:00 putting Vernon up 3-0. Pimm & Mike Collins with the assists. Just over three minutes later the Vipers would get their third powerplay of the night but couldnt capitalise. Late in the middle frame Powell River would get a long five on three powerplay. The Kings would get three good chances but for the most part Vernons penalty kill was solid killing off the two man advantage. Braden Pimm had a great chance one on one shorthanded but ran out of room and couldnt get off a shot. The Vipers played very well in the 2nd period having the edge in play up 3-0 after 40 minutes of play. Vernon outshot Powell River 13-11.
3rd Period: The Kings come out gunning, once again getting the play in deep, moving the puck well Powell River come up with plent of good quality chances early. The Vipers looked very flat, standing around watching the Kings skate circles around them. Powell River with two or three good chances in close couldnt beat Blake Voth. The Kings had the Vipers hemmed in their own end, but couldnt find the back of the net. On the Vipers first breakout Kellen Jones would drive towards the net hard beating Watson at 4:43 putting Vernon up 4-0. Connor Jones & David Robinson added the assists. The Kings control the first four and a half minutes in the Vipers zone and couldnt score, back come the Vipers with one chance and hit the back of the net. Powell River didnt back down, back come the Kings and just less then a minute later Brenden Forbes setup Chad Niddery in front who beat Blake Voth at 5:31 putting the Kings on the scoreboard. Forbes & Teagan Waugh adding the assists. The Kings kept plugging away, coming right back with more pressure deep in the Vipers zone. Vernon was caught standing around for most of the first half of the final period. Daniel Carr with a chance in front was stopped by Voth who saw his most action of the night. Chad Niddery would get his second of the night at 8:49 cutting the Vernon lead to 4-2 Mat Bodie & Ben Schmidt with the helpers. Mark Ferner then decided to call a timeout after his club was being outworked and outplayed all 3rd period. after the timeout off the draw Matt Garbowsky would be alone in the slot and wire his shot off the crossbar after having Blake Voth beat as the Kings didnt quit. Powell River looked very good getting lots of good chances. Chad Niddery then with a great chance couldnt beat Voth who played very well tonight. Andrew Pettitt with a chance was stopped by Voth. The Vipers who quit skating almost let the Kings to just skate around leaving them untouched. The Vipers would finally get the play out of their own end and generate some offence of their own after Powell River basically carried the play deep in the Vernon zone for the first 12 minutes of the 3rd. The play would go back and forth for most of the remainder of the period with both teams getting some decent chances but no real solid scoring plays. With 1:52 left Powell River would pull Watson for the extra attacker, Matt Grabowsky would get a great chance in front, but was stoned by Blake Voth, who then had to slide to the side of the net and rob Jordan Grant who also had a great chance on the rebound. Just after Rob Short would pick up the loose puck and go in for the breakaway hitting the empty net to put Vernon up 5-2 at 18:24 Shorts goal was unassisted. In the dying seconds Cody Rainaldi with a shot from the slot just missed the far corner. The Vipers got lucky and hung on for the 5-2 victory. Powell River outshot Vernon 10-5.
Top Players: (Vernon)
Dylan Walchuk (1 goal) Looked very strong for Vernon up front. Walchuk has really come along latley and played very well tonight. His speed, hustle and stick handling abbilities were very good tonight.
Cole Ikkala (1 goal) Also played and looked very good up front tonight. Ikkala was also skating well, really powered his way through the Kings zone tonight. Scored a real nice goal midway through the 2nd period.
Braden Pimm (2 assists) Pimm was usual self tonight, played very well at both ends of the rink. Showed alot of hustle, worked hard with and without the puck, was very hard to knock off the puck tonight. Was strong on the penalty kill and down low in the Kings zone. Was Vernons hardest worker tonight, thats for sure.
Steve Weinstein played a quiet but yet solid game for the Vipers on the blueline. Went for a huge check in the opening period after having a Kings player lined up, but just missed him at the last second.
Adam Thompson also played a very quiet but yet solid game on the backend. Thompson does all the little things that get unnoticed.
Blake Voth (22 saves) Didnt really have any action in the 1st period (3 shots) made a few good saves in the 2nd but really had to be sharp and play well in the 3rd when the Vipers went to sleep.
Top Players: (Powell River)
The line of Chad Niddery (2 goals), Daniel Carr & Matt Grabowsky was the Kings top offensive unit. This was the Kings go ttoo line, who did most of the damage. Niddery wasnt very noticable in the opening period but played his best hockey in the 3rd scoring 2 goals. Played well at both ends of the rink, showed alot of hustle coming back to break up an odd man rush after just getting a good scoring chance. Carr played very well and had most of the Kings scoring chances.
Reid Campbell played very well on the Kings blueline. A solid defenceman.
Darcy Huisman also played very well on the Powell River backend.
Brenden Forbes looked alright up front for the Kings. Had a few chances.
Game Thoughts: (Vernon)
It took the Vipers a bit to get going in the 1st period but seemed to settle down and were the better of the two teams for most of the first two periods. Vernon then fell asleep in the 3rd and managed to hang on for the big 5-2 win. This was a huge win as Penticton defeated Merritt tonight 7-2 so the Vipers are still just a single point ahead of the Vees for top spot in the Interior. Once the Vipers went up two goals and then up 3-0 its almost like they were sitting back playing a more defensive style of game, laying off the offence. Vernons penalty kill looked very good tonight, played very well on the five on three. I was very impressed with the Vipers defence in the 1st and 2nd periods, really shut down the Kings attack but sure looked flat in the 3rd. Both teams had some good scoring chances but tonights game didnt have a real good flow to it, atleast I thought. Maybe it was cause we havnt seen the Kings yet and we dont really know much about them, I just found tonights game not to be all that entertaining. The Vipers were lucky to hang on to tonights game, a bounce here or there or if Kellen Jones dosnt score that fouth goal, we got ourselfs a great finish.
Game Thoughts: (Powell River)
The Kings got off to a good start, come out strong, skating hard, moving the puck well, laying the body but couldnt generate much offensive attack. As the 1st went on the Kings couldnt seem to get much of anything going falling down 2-0. Going 0-2 on the man advantage getting no shots dosnt help either. Another good start to the 2nd period, this time creating and getting some good quality chances but couldnt beat Blake Voth. The Kings couldnt keep up the sustained pressure and then lost the 2nd period as Vernon was by far the better of the teams in the middle frame. Kent Lewis must have had a good chat with the boys between periods as Powell River come ready to play in the 3rd and basically dominated the first 12 minutes of the period getting all kinds of chances. After not being able to capitalise the Vipers come back on their first rush of the period and score, if this was a time when they needed a big save, this was it. Watson didnt have a chance on the Jones goal. Give Powell River credit they battled hard in the 3rd gettig all kinds of chances, Chad Niddery scored two huge goals giving them life and then Matt Grabowsky hits the crossbar or else we would have a one goal game with lots of time left. The Kings didnt quit and got two good chances with the goalie out but just couldnt beat Blake Voth. I figure if the Kings would have played like they did in the 3rd the whole game, we may have seen a different score on the scoreboard at the end of the night. Nice to see a good handfull of Kings fans who made the long trip up.
Scratches:
Vernon:
Darren Robak
Patrick McGillis
Powell River:
Brandon Formosa
Alex McDougall
Robbie Bailey
3 Stars:
1st Star: Braden Pimm (2 assists)
2nd Star: Chad Niddery (2 goals)
3rd Star: Cole Ikkala (1 goal)
(Game Preview) Powell River @ Vernon:
Powell River (29-14-1-6) @ Vernon (41-6-0-2)Last Game Played:
Saturday January 23rd Westside defeated Vernon 3-1
Wednesday January 27th Penticton defeated Powell River 3-2
Tonight is the first meeting of the season between the defending Royal Bank Cup Champion Vernon Vipers & the Powell River Kings and the first meeting since last years meeting in Game 6 of the BCHL Finals. These two teams were suppose to play back on November 18th in Powell River but the game was cancelled during the pre-game warm up after a electrical storm blew in and shut off the power. The Vipers are on a single game losing streak, while the Kings are also riding a single game losing streak.
Let’s take a look at the Vernon Vipers:
The Vipers currently sit #1 overall in the league as the BCHL’s best team & #2 overall in Canada with a record of 41-6-0-2 just a single point up on the 2nd place Penticton Vees. Vernon has scored 245 goals and given up the least amount of goals with just 94. Vernon is 19-4-0-1 at home & is 22-2-0-1 on the road. The Vipers are 7-3-0-0 in their last 10 games. The Vipers have three players in the leagues top 20 in scoring. Mike Collins (24-41-65), Connor Jones (30-34-64) & Braden Pimm (22-35-57). Blake Voth leads the league as the BCHL’s top goaltender. Voth has a record of 12-1 with 3 shutouts and a GAA of 1.51
The Vipers have 13 players from last years Championship team that defeated Powell River in last years League Final.
Getting off to a good start will be key for Vernon.
The Vipers are facing a Powell River team they don’t know much about, other then the clubs record.
Josh Watson (9-7-1 Record-2 Shutouts 2.18 GAA) is the leagues third best goaltender, behind Graeme Gordon. Vernon will have to get lots of pucks and traffic towards Watson.
The Vipers have two tough home games this weekend with Powell River tonight and Langley tomorrow.
Goaltending and specialty teams will be key.
The Vipers will need a win to try and stay one point ahead of the 2nd place Penticton Vees who are just a single point back of the league leading Vipers.
Players To Watch:
Mike Collins (24-41-65)
Connor Jones (30-34-64)
Braden Pimm (22-35-57)
Jonathan Milhouse (19-30-49)
Dylan Walchuk (18-27-45)
Kellen Jones (8-34-42)
Cory Kane (20-21-41)
Bryce Kakoske (12-25-37)
Rob Short (15-21-36)
Cole Ikkala (17-18-35)
Dan Nycholat (4-30-34)
Kevin Kraus (4-19-23)
Curtis Gedig (11-8-19)
Sahir Gill (0-2-2)
Graeme Gordon (29-7 Record-1 Shutout 2.03 GAA)
Blake Voth (12-1 Record-3 Shutouts-1.51 GAA)
Let’s take a look at the Powell River Kings:
The Kings currently sit in 2nd place in the Coastal Conference with a record of 29-14-1-6 The Kings have scored 170 goals but have had troubles keeping the puck out of the net, giving up 124 goals. Powell River is 18-4-0-3 on home ice but has struggled on the road with a 11-10-1-3 record and are 6-3-0-1 in their last 10 games. Jordan Grant is the lone Kings player listed in the leagues top 20 in scoring with (26-30-56) Josh Watson is 4th in the leagues top ten goaltenders with a record of 16-10-1 with 2 shutouts and a GAA of 2.16 Michael Garteig is ranked 8th in the leagues top 10 goaltenders with a record of 13-10 with 1 shutout a a GAA of 2.60
The Kings have 6 players returning from last years team that lost in six games to the Vipers in the League Final, those 6 players will be looking for revenge tonight.
The Kings will have to try and defend against all four Vernon lines who play on a regular shift, the Vipers are loaded with depth, skill and speed as the Kings will have to try and shut down the leagues highest scoring team.
Powell River will also have to try and get past the Vipers solid defence and strong goaltending.
Powell River needs to jump on Vernon and pull out a greasy road win.
Tonight should be a very entertaining hockey game with a rematch of last years BCHL Finals.
The Kings are on a current five game road trip, tonight is the 3rd game of this road trip. Powell River defeated Trail 5-1 and lost to Penticton 3-2.
Players To Watch:
Jordan Grant (26-30-56)
Chad Niddery (13-39-52)
Andrew Pettitt (29-21-50)
Matt Garbowsky (24-17-41)
Darcy Huisman (6-34-40)
Matt Bodie (7-21-28)
Ben Schmidt (12-14-26)
Mitch Labreche (10-16-26)
Josh Watson (16-10-1 Record-2 Shutouts 2.16 GAA)
Heres a look at last years season series between these two teams:
September 24th @ Powell River: Powell River wins 4-2
With the league going with a new look to the schedule this season, this was the only meeting between these two teams all season. This was just the Vipers 7th game of the season and the 2nd game of a five game road trip. With the game tied 2-2 in the 3rd, Darcy Oakes would score the game winner at the midway mark of the 3rd and then add an empty netter to give the Kings a 4-2 victory. Erik Vos & Brooks Robinson score the other Kings goals. Rob Short & Steve Tresierra scored the Vipers two goals. Chad Ketting picked up the win making just 17 saves, while Andrew Hammond took the loss making 35 saves. Powell River outshot Vernon 38-19.
http://www.bchl.bc.ca/leagues/hockey_boxScores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=573402
Heres a look at last years BCHL Finals:
April 3rd @ Powell River: Game 1: Vernon wins 4-0
Tonight was Game 1 of the Fred Page Cup as the Vipers defeated the Kings 4-0 in front of 1,215 fans. Sahir Gill unassisted at 7:48, Connor Jones from Kevin kraus at 10:26 & James Kerr from Cory Kane at 11:41 put Vernon up 3-0 in the 1st period. Kyle Bigos from Kevin Kraus & Mike Collins at 15:39 on the powerplay put Vernon up 4-0 in the 2nd. No scoring in the 3rd as Powell River killed off a two man advantage. Ben Schmidt & Kyle Bigos would drop the gloves in the 3rd as Schmidt would receive a match penalty. Andrew Hammond would make 23 saves for his 3rd shutout of these BCHL Playoffs. Carsen Chubak would make 28 saves in the loss for the Kings. The Vipers welcomed back Cameron Brodie and Mike Collins from injuries. Game 2 is tomorrow night.
3 Stars:
1st Star: Kyle Bigos
2nd Star: Andrew Hammond
3rd Star: Reid Campbell
http://www.bchl.bc.ca/leagues/hockey_boxScores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=684110
April 4th @ Powell River: Game 2: Vernon wins 3-0
The Vipers are heading home with a 2-0 series lead after a big 3-0 victory tonight in front of just 960 fans. Vernon would kill off a five on three after a scorelss 1st period. Sahir Gill would open the scoring on the powerplay at 2:10 of the 2nd period, assists going to, Kellen Jones & Kyle Bigos. Just 22 seconds later Bryce Kakoske put Vernon up 2-0, with Cory Kane & Kevin Kraus picking up the assists. Braden Pimm would get Vernons final goal of the night on the powerplay at 7:09 of the 3rd period. Bryce Kakoske & Kyle Bigos would collect the assists. Andrew Hammond makes 32 saves for his 2nd straight shutout, while Carsen Chubak makes 33 saves in the loss.
3 Stars:
1st Star: Andrew Hammond
2nd Star: Bryce Kakoske
3rd Star: Kyle Leahy
http://www.bchl.bc.ca/leagues/hockey_boxScores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=684111
April 7th @ Vernon: Game 3: Powell River wins 3-2 (Overtime)
Kyle Leahy would open the scoring at 3:31 as the Kings finally get on the scoreboard in this series. Neil Chambers and Jordan Grant would collect the assists. The Vipers would tie the game at 16:15 as Kellen Jones would score on the powerplay with assists going to, Sahir Gill & Connor Jones. Vernon would be all over the Kings in the 2nd period but would only manage one goal past Carsen Chubak at 4:01 as Connor Jones would find the back of the net. Sahir Gill & Connor Jones would pick up the assists on the play. Mat Bodie would tie the game at 18:47 on a screened shot from the point wich beat Andrew Hammond. Andrew Pettitt and Jordan Grant would collect the assists. After some good chances by the Vipers in the 3rd both teams would head to Overtime where Jordan Grant beat Hammond blocker side at 4:05 of the extra period to give Powell River the win and get back in the series. Kyle Leahy would pick up the lone assist. Vernon leads the series 2-1.
3 Stars:
1st Star: Jordan Grant
2nd Star: Connor Jones
3rd Star: Sahir Gill
http://www.bchl.bc.ca/leagues/hockey_boxScores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=684112
April 8th @ Vernon: Game 4: Vernon wins 3-2 (Tripple Overtime)
Mike Collins would open the scoring on the powerplay at 5:22 from Kevin Kraus. Erik Vos would tie things up at 10:42 from Darcy Okakes & Ryan Green. The Kings would dominate the 2nd period scoring just one goal, Jordan Grant at 5:45 from Kyle Leahy & Jason Yee. In 31 games all season the Kings went 21-0 when leading after two periods of play, and 7-0 in these Playoffs. Braden Pimms unassisted goal at 3:13 would tie the game and send it to Overtime. After chances to end it from both teams Vernon pulled away and dominated the final two Overtimes before finally Sahir Gill beat Carsen Chubak at 5:31 of the 3rd OT Connor & Kellen Jones would collect the assists. Andrew Hammond makes 41 saves in the win, while Carsen Chubak makes 67 saves in the loss.
3 Stars:
1st Star: Sahir Gill
2nd Star: Carsen Chubak
3rd Star: Andrew Hammond
http://www.bchl.bc.ca/leagues/hockey_boxScores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=684113
April 10th @ Powell River: Game 5: Powell River wins 4-1
With the Powell River Kings season on the line, the Kings pulled out a huge must win victory over the Vernon Vipers 4-1 in front of 1137 fans. Neil Chambers opened the scoring for the Kings at 4:31 from Andrew Pettitt. Clay Harvey put Powell River up 2-0 at 10:13 from Kyle Bodie. Powell River would outshoot Vernon 11-5. Sahir Gill would get the Vipers on the scoreboard at 8:04 cutting the lead to 2-1 with Connor and Kellen Jones picking up the assists. Carsen Chubak was solid in the 3rd shutting the door on the Vipers. With Andrew Hammond on the bench, Clay Harvey (unassisted) would get his 2nd of the night into the empty net at 18:54 as Powell River went up 3-1. At 19:34 Reid Campbell would ice the hockey game on the powerplay, Neil Chambers and Justin Hogan collected the assists. Andrew Hammond made 33 saves in the loss, while Carsen Chubak made 24 saves in the win. Vernon with another shot at winning the BCHL Title, coming home for Game 6 Sunday night.
3 Stars:
1st Star: Chad Niddery
2nd Star: Neil Chambers
3rd Star: Clay Harvey
http://www.bchl.bc.ca/leagues/hockey_boxScores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=684114
April 12th @ Vernon: Game 6: Vernon wins 2-1
Adam Thompson would open the scoring putting the Vipers up 1-0 after the 1st period. Braden Pimms shorthanded goal just over five minutes into the 2nd period would eventually be the game winner. Andrew Pettitt would score the Kings lone goal late in the 2nd period as neither team would score in the 3rd as the Vernon Vipers defeated the Powell River Kings in 6 games to win the BCHL Championship. The Vipers now won their record 10th BCHL Championship. (1970,1972,1988,1989,1991,1992,1996,1999,2003 & now 2009)
3 Stars:
1st Star: Braden Pimm
2nd Star: Cameron Brodie
3rd Star: Carsen Chubak
http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxScores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=684115&link=bchl
Here's a look at both team's rosters:
Vernon:
Mike Collins
Braden Pimm
Cory Kane
Dylan Walchuk
Jonathan Milhouse
Cole Ikkala
Kevin Kraus
Connor Jones
Dan Nycholat
Curtis Gedig
Adam Thompson
David Robinson
Steven Weinstein
Kellen Jones
Rob Short
Sahir Gill
Bryce Kakoske
Garrett Noonan
Patrick McGillis
Darrin Robak
Blake Voth
Graeme Gordon
Powell River:
Jordan Grant
Chad Niddery
Andrew Pettitt
Matt Garbowsky
Darcy Huisman
Mat Bodie
Ben Schmidt
Mitch Labreche
Reid Campbell
Justin Dasilva
Daniel Carr
Carter Shinkaruk
Robbie Bailey
Cody Rainaldi
Teagan Waugh
Jason Yee
Brenden Forbes
Brandon Formosa
Klay Kachur
Alex McDougall
Braden Pears
Josh Watson
Michael Garteig
Vipers Host Kings In Fred Page Rematch:
This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:
Vipers host Kings in Fred Page rematch
Published: January 28, 2010
When the Vernon Vipers tangle with the Powell River Kings tonight at Wesbild Centre, it will be more like a meet-and-greet and less like a rematch of last year’s B.C. Hockey League Fred Page Cup final.
Gone are veterans Darcy Oakes, Kyle Bodie and Clay Harvey, who formed the Kings’ top line last season, one of the most dangerous in the league. All-star netminder Carson Chubak bolted for the USHL’s Tri-City Storm in the off-season.
In fact, just six Powell River players remain on the squad that bowed to the Vipers in six games in the league final. With the recent homecoming of forward Sahir Gill, the Snakes (42-14-1-3) have 13 players from last year’s Royal Bank Cup squad.
Despite the turnover, the Kings have regrouped under head coach Kent Lewis to post a 29-14-1-6 record, good enough for second place in the Coastal Conference. Vernon, meanwhile, has struggled lately by their standards, going 7-3 in their last 10 games.
The Kings, who are in the third of a five-game road swing, fell 3-2 to the Penticton Vees Wednesday night at the South Okanagan Events Centre.
BCHL Player of the Week Beau Bennett (1+2) pocketed the winner midway through the second period. Denver Manderson, who leads the league with 110 points in 49 games, rounded out the scoring for Penticton (40-6-0-3) with a pair of first-period powerplay goals.
Matt Garbowsky handled the Kings’ scoring.
Penticton keeper Sean Bonar made 26 stops while Josh Watson recorded 32 saves for Powell River.
The Vees are now just a single point behind Vernon for the BCHL lead.
Vipers host Kings in Fred Page rematch
Published: January 28, 2010
When the Vernon Vipers tangle with the Powell River Kings tonight at Wesbild Centre, it will be more like a meet-and-greet and less like a rematch of last year’s B.C. Hockey League Fred Page Cup final.
Gone are veterans Darcy Oakes, Kyle Bodie and Clay Harvey, who formed the Kings’ top line last season, one of the most dangerous in the league. All-star netminder Carson Chubak bolted for the USHL’s Tri-City Storm in the off-season.
In fact, just six Powell River players remain on the squad that bowed to the Vipers in six games in the league final. With the recent homecoming of forward Sahir Gill, the Snakes (42-14-1-3) have 13 players from last year’s Royal Bank Cup squad.
Despite the turnover, the Kings have regrouped under head coach Kent Lewis to post a 29-14-1-6 record, good enough for second place in the Coastal Conference. Vernon, meanwhile, has struggled lately by their standards, going 7-3 in their last 10 games.
The Kings, who are in the third of a five-game road swing, fell 3-2 to the Penticton Vees Wednesday night at the South Okanagan Events Centre.
BCHL Player of the Week Beau Bennett (1+2) pocketed the winner midway through the second period. Denver Manderson, who leads the league with 110 points in 49 games, rounded out the scoring for Penticton (40-6-0-3) with a pair of first-period powerplay goals.
Matt Garbowsky handled the Kings’ scoring.
Penticton keeper Sean Bonar made 26 stops while Josh Watson recorded 32 saves for Powell River.
The Vees are now just a single point behind Vernon for the BCHL lead.
Thursday, January 28, 2010
In The Crease With Graeme Gordon:
This is posted on the Kiss FM website:Get behind the scenes information with the man who has the best seat in the house, netminder #35 Graeme Gordon. Listen to KISS FM Thursday mornings for 'In The Crease' with the Vernon Vipers goalie to get the inside scoop on and off the ice. The 20-year old goaltender from North Vancouver has spent the last three years in the B.C.H.L, helping the Vipers win a record breaking 5th National Championship last season.
Kiss FM's Rob Abramenko will be interviewing Vipers Goaltender, Graeme Gordon every Thursday Morning with "In The Crease" I will be posting the interviews on my blog. Check out today's interview,
http://1075kiss.com/local-first/vernon-vipers/177-in-the-crease
Vote For Former Viper Chay Genoway In Hobey Baker Award Fan Balloting:
This is posted on the North Dakota website:
Vote for Chay Genoway in Hobey Baker Award fan balloting
Official Hobey Baker Press Release
Courtesy: Kory Wallen, FightingSioux.com
http://www.korywallen.com/
GRAND FORKS, N.D. - Fighting Sioux hockey fans can vote for North Dakota senior defenseman Chay Genoway in the 2010 Hobey Baker Award fan balloting, which begins today.
To submit your vote, visit http://www.hobeybaker.com/ and click on the ‘Vote for Hobey Baker' tab. This first phase of fan balloting will run through March 7, 2010. The fans' vote accounts for a full one percent of the total ballot in each phase in selecting this year's award recipient.
Genoway, the Sioux captain, has appeared in nine games this season and was the team's leading scorer and the WCHA's highest-scoring defenseman with four goals and six assists when he suffered an injury, at which time UND was 7-1-1.
The leading active scorer among WCHA defensemen with 90 career points, Genoway was a second-team All-American as a junior in 2008-09 after collecting a career-high 32 points. He was named the 2008-09 WCHA Defensive Player of the Year, a first-team All-WCHA selection and a second-team All-College Hockey News pick.
Genoway, a native of Morden, Manitoba, was also named to the ESPN the Magazine Academic All-America third team and was named a WCHA Scholar Athlete for the second straight year. He was also named to his second straight All-WCHA Academic team and received his second straight Archie Krum Memorial Scholarship as the UND player who "demonstrates leadership qualities, high academic standards and athletic excellence."
Phase two of fan balloting will begin on March 19 from the list of top 10 Hobey Baker finalists.
The 2010 Hobey Baker Award winner will be announced from a field of three Hobey Hat Trick finalists on Friday, April 9, 2010 during the NCAA Frozen Four Championships in Detroit, Mich. The 30th annual award announcement honoring college hockey's top player will be televised live during prime time on ESPNU. For more info on the Hobey Baker Award or to access the Hobey logo, please visit http://www.hobeybaker.com/.
Vote for Chay Genoway in Hobey Baker Award fan balloting
Official Hobey Baker Press Release
Courtesy: Kory Wallen, FightingSioux.com
http://www.korywallen.com/
GRAND FORKS, N.D. - Fighting Sioux hockey fans can vote for North Dakota senior defenseman Chay Genoway in the 2010 Hobey Baker Award fan balloting, which begins today.
To submit your vote, visit http://www.hobeybaker.com/ and click on the ‘Vote for Hobey Baker' tab. This first phase of fan balloting will run through March 7, 2010. The fans' vote accounts for a full one percent of the total ballot in each phase in selecting this year's award recipient.
Genoway, the Sioux captain, has appeared in nine games this season and was the team's leading scorer and the WCHA's highest-scoring defenseman with four goals and six assists when he suffered an injury, at which time UND was 7-1-1.
The leading active scorer among WCHA defensemen with 90 career points, Genoway was a second-team All-American as a junior in 2008-09 after collecting a career-high 32 points. He was named the 2008-09 WCHA Defensive Player of the Year, a first-team All-WCHA selection and a second-team All-College Hockey News pick.
Genoway, a native of Morden, Manitoba, was also named to the ESPN the Magazine Academic All-America third team and was named a WCHA Scholar Athlete for the second straight year. He was also named to his second straight All-WCHA Academic team and received his second straight Archie Krum Memorial Scholarship as the UND player who "demonstrates leadership qualities, high academic standards and athletic excellence."
Phase two of fan balloting will begin on March 19 from the list of top 10 Hobey Baker finalists.
The 2010 Hobey Baker Award winner will be announced from a field of three Hobey Hat Trick finalists on Friday, April 9, 2010 during the NCAA Frozen Four Championships in Detroit, Mich. The 30th annual award announcement honoring college hockey's top player will be televised live during prime time on ESPNU. For more info on the Hobey Baker Award or to access the Hobey logo, please visit http://www.hobeybaker.com/.
Vipers Out In Force For Wendy's Dreamlift Day:
Vipers out in force for Wendy's Dreamlift DayThursday, January 28, 2010 - Submitted by Vernon Vipers
Celebrating its 16th season on January 27, 2010, Wendy’s Dreamlift Day is a highly anticipated annual event for the residents of British Columbia's Thompson/Okanagan/Shuswap region.
Every year the Vipers are invited out to the annual event to put in a few hours of work. The concept is simple. People are invited to eat at one of the nine Wendy's Restaurants in Vernon, Kamloops, Salmon Arm, Kelowna, Westbank and Penticton on Wendy's Dreamlift Day.
All gross profits from the day's event, including staff, management, and ownership wages, are donated to Sunshine Foundation of Canada: BC Interior Chapter to help fulfill dreams for children in their local communities with severe physical disabilities or life-threatening illnesses.
Funds raised will go toward a Dreamlift, a one-day whirlwind trip that whisks children challenged by severe physical disabilities and life-threatening illnesses for a one-day adventure at Disney. Children from the Thompson/Okanagan/Shuswap Regions will participate on a Wendy's-sponsored Dreamlift to Disneyland in California, scheduled for Winter 2010.
This would not be possible without the incredible generosity and community spirit of John Tietzen, Wendy’s Franchise Owner, area partners Akbal Mund and Todd Lewis, and the staff at the nine participating Wendy's Restaurants in Southern B.C. Special thanks also to Sunshine’s BC Interior Chapter for their support of this overwhelmingly successful event.
FACTS ABOUT WENDY'S DREAMLIFTS TO DISNEYLAND:
It takes an army of doctors, specialists, chaperones, one airline, two airports, the RCMP, the Orange County Sheriffs Department (over 100 volunteers on the ground in California) and a Magic Kingdom to create this one-day experience for approximately 80 special children.
All children on the flight are challenged by severe physical disabilities or life-threatening illnesses. For many of the children, this may be the first time they have had an independent adventure away from their parents.
Alaska Airline (Horizon) sends a special "Disney" plane, of which there are only three in the world. Departing at 6 am and returning at 11 pm the same day, the children receive VIP treatment throughout, including 'front-of-the-line' access in Disneyland.
Children are provided with spending money to bring home a cherished souvenir.
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Jebson Smothers Snakes:
This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:Jebson smothers Snakes
By Kevin Mitchell - Vernon Morning Star
Published: January 26, 2010
Three years ago, Kevin Jebson allowed four goals in 14 minutes with the Western Hockey League Moose Jaw Warriors.
It was a mistake the Surrey product regrets now, but he hasn’t made many since leaving the Warriors for the B.C. Hockey League.
The fiery 20-year-old net detective stole his 31st game of the season Saturday night, recording a first-star 35-save showing in a 3-1 win at Wesbild Centre.
Jebson, who was all-planet during a two-minute Vipers’ 5-on-3 early in the game, has a habit of playing well in Vernon.
“It’s something about the challenge playing Vernon,” he said. “They are ranked No. 2 in Canada and they were No. 1 and I like to go out and prove myself. I like to think of myself as one of the best in the league and what better way to show than helping my team get a win against Vernon.”
Cole Wilson, off a turnover, Jason Nash, with a shot which deflected off d-man Adam Thompson past Graeme Gordon, and Trevor Bailey, with a softie which trickled through Gordon, accounted for the Westside offence.
Dylan Walchuk scored his 18th of the year, burying a rebound from ‘gimme’ range after a Stevie Weinstein shot, for the Vipers, who remain rated second in the country at 41-6-0-2.
Westside assistant coach Larry Robinson, a goaltending specialist, isn’t surprised by Jebson’s play. He challenged Jebson to be more of a leader, and remain calm when things heat up.
“He gets up for these kind of games. We kind of talked about it earlier in the week, using these two games as a playoff format and definitely wanting a split here for sure. More for Jebber, it was about getting a feel for this building and working towards the playoffs.”
With the post-season just around the corner, Jebson figures there isn’t much separating the Warriors (35-14-1-1) and Vipers.
“They have four really strong lines. They have a lot of offence up there. Their back end is good, but they could use some help. We just gotta put pucks on net and if we get those lucky goals on Gordon, there goes the game for us.”
Referee Andrew Guest called just eight minor penalties in the fast, yet tight-checking affair. Westside managed just 21 shots on goal before 2,118 fans.
“Obviously, we came out with a good effort and their goaltending was obviously really good again,” said Viper winger Cole Ikkala. “We got 40 shots and nothing you can do. We had the effort; we just didn’t get the result we wanted. Just nothing was going our way tonight. We’ll just bounce back and come back next weekend.”
Viper head coach Mark Ferner wants to see better things from some veterans when the Powell River Kings visit Friday night for the first time since last year’s Fred Page Cup final.
“They came in here and did what they needed to do. They kept it simple. For the most part we had a pretty good effort. We just need some of our older guys to be better.
“Give Westside credit, they played a good game and found a way to win.”
Meanwhile, winger Sawyer Mick and the Vipers have parted ways.
Mick, 18, amassed 9-13-22 in 43 games, but with the signings of David Robinson and Sahir Gill, had started sitting in the press box.
"Promises were given when I signed, and obviously they weren’t being fulfilled,” said Mick, who played rec hockey on the weekend. “I’m too big of a competitive person to be sitting out in the press box. I talked to Ferns and he was understanding of the situation. I wasn’t prepared to be a spare part so I’ll keep up my fitness and look to next year.”
Said Ferner: “We like Sawyer and we didn’t sign him to be a spare part. We wanted him to be part of our 23-man team. It’s been tough, but we sent a message that we’re going to need everybody ready to go.
“It’s a tough thing considering what happened to him in Portland, but he felt he wanted to move forward. Unfortunately, the time of the year didn’t allow us to move him to another team.”
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Vipers Lose Local Kid:
After hearing the news Monday morning that Sawyer Mick has left the Vipers, I was dissapointed. I for one liked Mick and thought the Vipers needed a kid that played his type of style. My guess is that Sawyer was promised to be a part of the Vipers this year and for several years to come, playing on a regular shift. After signing Vernon product David Robinson and then aquiring Sahir Gill at the BCHL trade deadline, Mick's roster spot was no sitting in the stands as a healthy scratch. Mick hasnt played in the teams last six games.
Mcik attended the Vipers training camp last summer and was one of if not the final cut. Mick joined the KIJHL's Chase Chiefs before being called up as an "AP" around Christmas by the BCHL's Salmon Arm Silverbacks before joining the WHL's Portland Winterhawks. Mick returned to Portland this season but was released and signed with the Vipers during the teams pre season schedule. Sawyer was on the teams fourth line on a regular shift before the BCHL's trade deadline.
My guess is Mick wasnt too happy going from the teams fourth line to sitting in the stands, for the remainder of the season or unless someone was to get sick or get injured. Can ya blame the kid? No not at all, him and the rest of the kids all want to play but due to the leagues 23 man roster, three kids on each team must sit out as a healthy scratch. This being Darrin Robak, Patrick McGillis and Sawyer Mick. My guess is Robak & McGillis were already told this after the Vipers training camp. McGillis was fortunate to get back into the lineup after Nick Amies & Drew George were sent to Cowichan Valley for Curtis Gedig. With George & Amies gone this leaving the Vipers short one player, wich ment McGillis was inserted into the teams lineup. When Kellen Jones went down with a broken jaw, this gave a chance for Darrin Robak to jump into the lineup. After the Vipers signed David Robinson, Robak was sent back to the stands as a healthy scratch, and now with the addition of Sahir Gill, McGillis and Mick both join him.
Mark Ferner has a very tough job, one that either he makes the right choice & everyone loves the guy, or two he makes the wrong choice & everyone hates the man. After the last years Vipers team, heading into this years season we all knew Vernon needed size and toughness. Mick brought a physical presence and played with an edge, something the Vipers needed and wanted from the Vernon product. Ferner now has a chance at bringing in a former Viper and local kid that has size, plays with an edge and is that big power forward the team needs, so he goes out and aquires Robinson. Now word gets out that former Viper Sahir Gill has left the USHL's Chicago Steel and wants to return to the Vipers.
Does Ferner say you blew it kid for leaving the first time or "A" give him a second chance and bring him back? Its pretty hard to say no to a player like Sahir Gill, other then he walked out on the Vipers during the off season. But I think when you have a chance to bring back a kid that "A" won the RBC Cup last year & "B" adds that experience and skill, you cant say no. This puts a kid like Mick in the stands. I dont think Mick is as good as either Robinson or Gill so Mick ends up being the odd man out. What does Mark Ferner do? Its a tough decision and one Im glad I never have to make.
After trading away Nick Amies & Drew George fans thought Ferner was crazy for making such a trade when the team had lost just a single game all season and were currently riding a 21 game winning streak. Since that trade the Vipers 21 game winning streak was stopped, one game shy of the teams 1999 22 game winning streak record. Vernon has gone 13-6. Dont forget Kellen Jones was out of the lineup with a broken jaw, wich ment new lines and new line combinations. Also remember that the Vipers had a pretty easy first half of the schedule to start the season, playing several of the leagues bottom teams. & now have faced or will face a much tougher test, playing against some very competative teams. People and fans are now saying with all these changes, trades, new lines, new faces & now Sawyer Mick leaving etc has this efected the teams chemistry? Well that us fans dont know, but I can tell you this, Mark Ferner and the Vipers coaching staff knows his team more then any of us, so I will let Ferner and the coaching staff do their best with the team they have and will see how far and how well they do in this years playoffs.
No official word has been said from the Vipers why Sawyer Mick left the team. In the end no matter why Mick left, I would like to thank Sawyer for his time in a Vipers uniform and wish him all the best in his hockey futures. I was looking forward to having you in a Vipers jersey for the next few seasons. Best of luck.
Mcik attended the Vipers training camp last summer and was one of if not the final cut. Mick joined the KIJHL's Chase Chiefs before being called up as an "AP" around Christmas by the BCHL's Salmon Arm Silverbacks before joining the WHL's Portland Winterhawks. Mick returned to Portland this season but was released and signed with the Vipers during the teams pre season schedule. Sawyer was on the teams fourth line on a regular shift before the BCHL's trade deadline.
My guess is Mick wasnt too happy going from the teams fourth line to sitting in the stands, for the remainder of the season or unless someone was to get sick or get injured. Can ya blame the kid? No not at all, him and the rest of the kids all want to play but due to the leagues 23 man roster, three kids on each team must sit out as a healthy scratch. This being Darrin Robak, Patrick McGillis and Sawyer Mick. My guess is Robak & McGillis were already told this after the Vipers training camp. McGillis was fortunate to get back into the lineup after Nick Amies & Drew George were sent to Cowichan Valley for Curtis Gedig. With George & Amies gone this leaving the Vipers short one player, wich ment McGillis was inserted into the teams lineup. When Kellen Jones went down with a broken jaw, this gave a chance for Darrin Robak to jump into the lineup. After the Vipers signed David Robinson, Robak was sent back to the stands as a healthy scratch, and now with the addition of Sahir Gill, McGillis and Mick both join him.
Mark Ferner has a very tough job, one that either he makes the right choice & everyone loves the guy, or two he makes the wrong choice & everyone hates the man. After the last years Vipers team, heading into this years season we all knew Vernon needed size and toughness. Mick brought a physical presence and played with an edge, something the Vipers needed and wanted from the Vernon product. Ferner now has a chance at bringing in a former Viper and local kid that has size, plays with an edge and is that big power forward the team needs, so he goes out and aquires Robinson. Now word gets out that former Viper Sahir Gill has left the USHL's Chicago Steel and wants to return to the Vipers.
Does Ferner say you blew it kid for leaving the first time or "A" give him a second chance and bring him back? Its pretty hard to say no to a player like Sahir Gill, other then he walked out on the Vipers during the off season. But I think when you have a chance to bring back a kid that "A" won the RBC Cup last year & "B" adds that experience and skill, you cant say no. This puts a kid like Mick in the stands. I dont think Mick is as good as either Robinson or Gill so Mick ends up being the odd man out. What does Mark Ferner do? Its a tough decision and one Im glad I never have to make.
After trading away Nick Amies & Drew George fans thought Ferner was crazy for making such a trade when the team had lost just a single game all season and were currently riding a 21 game winning streak. Since that trade the Vipers 21 game winning streak was stopped, one game shy of the teams 1999 22 game winning streak record. Vernon has gone 13-6. Dont forget Kellen Jones was out of the lineup with a broken jaw, wich ment new lines and new line combinations. Also remember that the Vipers had a pretty easy first half of the schedule to start the season, playing several of the leagues bottom teams. & now have faced or will face a much tougher test, playing against some very competative teams. People and fans are now saying with all these changes, trades, new lines, new faces & now Sawyer Mick leaving etc has this efected the teams chemistry? Well that us fans dont know, but I can tell you this, Mark Ferner and the Vipers coaching staff knows his team more then any of us, so I will let Ferner and the coaching staff do their best with the team they have and will see how far and how well they do in this years playoffs.
No official word has been said from the Vipers why Sawyer Mick left the team. In the end no matter why Mick left, I would like to thank Sawyer for his time in a Vipers uniform and wish him all the best in his hockey futures. I was looking forward to having you in a Vipers jersey for the next few seasons. Best of luck.
Former Vernon Laker Drake Inducted Into 2010 BC Hockey Hall Of Fame:
This is posted on the Vancouver Canucks website:BC Hockey Hall of Fame announces 2010 inductees
Vancouver, B.C. - Former Vancouver Canucks Captain Trevor Linden joins an impressive group of 2010 Inductees into the BC Hockey Hall of Fame. Stanley Cup Champion Dallas Drake of the Detroit Red Wings, General Manager and Owner of the WHL Kelowna Rockets Bruce Hamilton and Hockey Canada and BC Hockey executive Frank Lento are the newest BCHHF Inductees.
Dallas Drake, a native of Trail, BC played 1009 games in the NHL with Winnipeg, Phoenix, St Louis and Detroit. Dallas played junior with Rossland (KIJHL), Vernon (BCHL) and collegiately with Northern Michigan. He scored the winning goal in triple overtime in 1991 as Northern Michigan won the NCAA Championship. Drake was selected 116th overall in the 1989 NHL entry draft by Detroit. He won a Stanley Cup with the Detroit Red Wings in 2007-08.
The 2010 Inductees will be honoured at the 2010 BC Hockey Hall of Fame Induction Banquet in Penticton on Friday July 23rd.
For further information contact Bruce Judd Executive Director of the BC Hockey Hall of Fame 250-488-8695 or web site: http://www.bchhf.com/
Former Viper Zaba Sent Back To AHL:
This is posted on the New York Rangers website:
Rangers recall Johnson from Hartford
Blueshirts swap backup goaltenders, sending Zaba back to AHL
Tuesday, 01.26.2010 / 9:50 AM / News
New York Rangers President and General Manager Glen Sather announced today that goaltender Chad Johnson has been recalled from the Hartford Wolf Pack of the American Hockey League (AHL), and Matt Zaba has been assigned to Hartford.
Johnson, 23, has posted a 1-1-0 record with a 2.08 goals against average and a .936 save percentage in three games since his assignment to Hartford on Wednesday, January 20, following back-to-back overtime contests on January 22 and 23 (3-2 win vs. Manchester and 2-1 overtime loss at Springfield, respectively) and a relief appearance in a 6-1 loss at Manchester on January 24.
Johnson returns to New York where he has a record of 0-1-1 with a 2.58 goals against average and a .908 save percentage along with one assist this season. Johnson registered an assist, made 31 saves through regulation/overtime and stopped three of five shootout attempts while making his first career NHL start with the Rangers on January 7 at Atlanta. He made his NHL debut with 17 saves on December 30 vs. Philadelphia, and has dressed as Henrik Lundqvist's backup in 18 games.
In Hartford, Johnson has posted a 14-8-2 record with a 2.03 goals against average, .930 save percentage and three shutouts in 26 AHL games this season. He ranks fifth in the AHL in goals against average and save percentage, and is tied for fourth in shutouts and 13th in wins. Johnson registered a season-high four-game winning streak, beginning with his first career AHL shutout on October 31 against Providence to November 7 at Bridgeport. He also notched back-to-back shutouts on November 13 vs. Manchester (26 saves) and November 14 at Worcester (35 saves). The AHL rookie made his debut with Hartford on October 9 at Providence, and recorded his first AHL win the following game on October 10 against Springfield.
The Calgary, Alberta native was originally the Pittsburgh Penguins' fifth round selection, 125th overall, in the 2006 NHL Entry Draft. He was acquired by the Rangers on June 27, 2009, in exchange for a fifth round selection (Andy Bathgate) in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft.
Zaba, 26, made his NHL debut in Saturday’s 6-0 loss at Montreal, entering the game at 6:18 of the second period and stopping 14 of 16 shots, including nine of 10 in the third. He returns to Hartford where he has posted a 3-4-1 record with a 3.45 goals against average and .888 save percentage in 12 AHL games this season.
Last season, Zaba ranked seventh in the AHL in goals against average (2.33), tied for eighth in save percentage (.920) and 12th in wins (25). He also led the league in shootout save percentage with a .930% success rate. Zaba was named AHL Goaltender of the Month for February, and he finished the regular season with a 14-2-0 mark and a 1.84 goals against average, a .937 save percentage and one shutout in his final 16 contests. He made his AHL debut on October 18, 2008, at Toronto.
The Yorkton, Saskatchewan native was originally the Los Angeles Kings eighth round selection, 231st overall, in the 2003 NHL Entry Draft. He was signed by the Rangers as a free agent on August 20, 2007.
Rangers recall Johnson from Hartford
Blueshirts swap backup goaltenders, sending Zaba back to AHL
Tuesday, 01.26.2010 / 9:50 AM / News
New York Rangers President and General Manager Glen Sather announced today that goaltender Chad Johnson has been recalled from the Hartford Wolf Pack of the American Hockey League (AHL), and Matt Zaba has been assigned to Hartford.
Johnson, 23, has posted a 1-1-0 record with a 2.08 goals against average and a .936 save percentage in three games since his assignment to Hartford on Wednesday, January 20, following back-to-back overtime contests on January 22 and 23 (3-2 win vs. Manchester and 2-1 overtime loss at Springfield, respectively) and a relief appearance in a 6-1 loss at Manchester on January 24.
Johnson returns to New York where he has a record of 0-1-1 with a 2.58 goals against average and a .908 save percentage along with one assist this season. Johnson registered an assist, made 31 saves through regulation/overtime and stopped three of five shootout attempts while making his first career NHL start with the Rangers on January 7 at Atlanta. He made his NHL debut with 17 saves on December 30 vs. Philadelphia, and has dressed as Henrik Lundqvist's backup in 18 games.
In Hartford, Johnson has posted a 14-8-2 record with a 2.03 goals against average, .930 save percentage and three shutouts in 26 AHL games this season. He ranks fifth in the AHL in goals against average and save percentage, and is tied for fourth in shutouts and 13th in wins. Johnson registered a season-high four-game winning streak, beginning with his first career AHL shutout on October 31 against Providence to November 7 at Bridgeport. He also notched back-to-back shutouts on November 13 vs. Manchester (26 saves) and November 14 at Worcester (35 saves). The AHL rookie made his debut with Hartford on October 9 at Providence, and recorded his first AHL win the following game on October 10 against Springfield.
The Calgary, Alberta native was originally the Pittsburgh Penguins' fifth round selection, 125th overall, in the 2006 NHL Entry Draft. He was acquired by the Rangers on June 27, 2009, in exchange for a fifth round selection (Andy Bathgate) in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft.
Zaba, 26, made his NHL debut in Saturday’s 6-0 loss at Montreal, entering the game at 6:18 of the second period and stopping 14 of 16 shots, including nine of 10 in the third. He returns to Hartford where he has posted a 3-4-1 record with a 3.45 goals against average and .888 save percentage in 12 AHL games this season.
Last season, Zaba ranked seventh in the AHL in goals against average (2.33), tied for eighth in save percentage (.920) and 12th in wins (25). He also led the league in shootout save percentage with a .930% success rate. Zaba was named AHL Goaltender of the Month for February, and he finished the regular season with a 14-2-0 mark and a 1.84 goals against average, a .937 save percentage and one shutout in his final 16 contests. He made his AHL debut on October 18, 2008, at Toronto.
The Yorkton, Saskatchewan native was originally the Los Angeles Kings eighth round selection, 231st overall, in the 2003 NHL Entry Draft. He was signed by the Rangers as a free agent on August 20, 2007.
Monday, January 25, 2010
Mick Leaves Vipers:
107.5 Kiss FM reported this morning that Vernon Vipers forward, Sawyer Mick has left the team. No official word on why the Vernon product left the team. When I hear or find out more I will post back later.Vipers Player Profile With David Robinson:
Kiss FM's Rob Abramenko has once again made one of his great Vernon Vipers video's, Abro just finished player profile with Vipers forward, David Robinson. Check it out,http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IX-bbSH7QMM
Former Viper Pierce Has Cents Back On Track In Rookie Season:
Merritt coach Pierce has Cents back on track in rookie season
Monday, January 25, 2010 - Submitted by Chad Klassen
The return of a local kid to his roots is making all the difference for the Merritt Centennials, a franchise that is moving up the BCHL’s Interior Conference standings after a pair of disappointing seasons.
Centennials head coach Luke Pierce, who grew up playing in the Merritt minor hockey system before suiting up for the team, is helping resurrect a squad that was in need of fresh new leadership.
Merritt finished the 2008/09 campaign with a disappointing 13-44-0-3 record, prompting the team to let go of longtime coach Al Glendinning. The Centennials opened the current season losing 20 of their first 28 games under the guidance of Dylan and Tyler Forsythe before the society that runs the club decided to hands over the reins to Pierce on November 25th.
Despite being only four years removed from their last winning season, the Centennials organization had won a mere 26 games the last two years and had looked positively at 2009/10 as the time for a turnaround.
“He more than jumped at the opportunity," says Brian Barrett, the club's Director of Hockey Operations. "He’s very passionate, hard-working young man and I think he portrayed to the players kind of an air of believability as to what they had to do to succeed and play in this league,”
Nineteen games into his head coaching career, the players have shown their full support for Pierce’s program and the team has made a significant strides in the standings since the late November move.
“He’s utilized his past experience as a player and really got the players to rally around what he was talking about, and I think he’s done a tremendous job,” adds Barrett.
For Pierce, the Merritt native who was initially hired as an assistant coach this season, being promoted so quickly with the league's the longest-running franchise couldn’t have come as a better opportunity.
“For me, I couldn’t have picked a better place to get started,” he says. “The support you get from the community and family and friends has been pretty awesome, and I’m just glad I was given an opportunity here – a place that means a lot to me.”
While essentially a rookie head coach with just one season on the staff at the Royal Military College in Kingston prior to returning home, Pierce has proven he can get the job done. He’s pulled the Centennials into fifth place in the Interior Conference on the strength of a 9-9-0-1 record since being called into duty.
“My biggest goal was to actually create a culture – something that was lacking I thought,” Pierce says. “We really needed to form an identity of who we were going to be as a team. That was really the first step – really pushing an identity of being a difficult team to play against and a hard-working group.”
Pierce was known as a gritty hockey player with lots of character during his playing days in Merritt and at RMC, and the Cents have already shown resilience and toughness during his tenure.
“The biggest difference is our competitiveness. Last week, we were really frustrated losing to Penticton in a game we thought we should’ve won, but two months ago we would’ve been happy just keeping that game close,” explained Pierce. “We’ve had a lot of come-from-behind wins, which to me speaks to their willingness to never give up, whereas before we’d get down by a few goals and next thing you know it’s 8-1.”
The 25-year-old has brought a tremendous amount of positive energy into the locker room – something he found to be a challenge with the losing culture – and he maintains a genuine belief in his players, stressing they can compete with any team in the league.
“I’m really big on the mental side of the game,” Pierce said. “I think it’s really important with this age of kids, keeping people positive and giving them a real sense of belief in their abilities.”
Centennials’ captain Jordan Soquila has seen a significant difference in the team’s play and his own game under Pierce’s leadership.
“The best thing about Luke is he’s 110 percent behind us. He believes and knows we’re a winning team. He thinks every single guy on this team has the skill and the talent to do what the team needs to win,” says Soquila, who’s put up 40 points in 46 games this season.
“It’s a great feeling. It’s a complete turnaround from last year. Winning makes everyone on the team happy and keeps the spirits high. You want to go to the rink and practice and play and go to hockey,” he added.
Winning also has its positive side-effects away from the rink. Barrett points to a lack of attendance and turnover of personnel over the past three seasons as by-products of a struggling oragnization.
“The chemistry the last few years on the team wasn’t that great, and I think it became a problem to get kids to come here and stay here,” he explains. “Then, of course, when you’re not winning, people stay away in droves. It’s hard to go out there and garner that corporate financial support.”
But now with Pierce firmly in place in his old backyard, junior hockey in Merritt has been revived in the short term – with the playoffs in sight – and should continue to flourish with his presence behind the Centennials’ bench.
“The overall play has improved tremendously and I really believe that if we get all areas of our game going here with the defense, our offense, our goaltending, we’re going to be a team to be reckoned with down the stretch and in the playoffs,” concludes Barrett.
Monday, January 25, 2010 - Submitted by Chad Klassen
The return of a local kid to his roots is making all the difference for the Merritt Centennials, a franchise that is moving up the BCHL’s Interior Conference standings after a pair of disappointing seasons.
Centennials head coach Luke Pierce, who grew up playing in the Merritt minor hockey system before suiting up for the team, is helping resurrect a squad that was in need of fresh new leadership.
Merritt finished the 2008/09 campaign with a disappointing 13-44-0-3 record, prompting the team to let go of longtime coach Al Glendinning. The Centennials opened the current season losing 20 of their first 28 games under the guidance of Dylan and Tyler Forsythe before the society that runs the club decided to hands over the reins to Pierce on November 25th.
Despite being only four years removed from their last winning season, the Centennials organization had won a mere 26 games the last two years and had looked positively at 2009/10 as the time for a turnaround.
“He more than jumped at the opportunity," says Brian Barrett, the club's Director of Hockey Operations. "He’s very passionate, hard-working young man and I think he portrayed to the players kind of an air of believability as to what they had to do to succeed and play in this league,”
Nineteen games into his head coaching career, the players have shown their full support for Pierce’s program and the team has made a significant strides in the standings since the late November move.
“He’s utilized his past experience as a player and really got the players to rally around what he was talking about, and I think he’s done a tremendous job,” adds Barrett.
For Pierce, the Merritt native who was initially hired as an assistant coach this season, being promoted so quickly with the league's the longest-running franchise couldn’t have come as a better opportunity.
“For me, I couldn’t have picked a better place to get started,” he says. “The support you get from the community and family and friends has been pretty awesome, and I’m just glad I was given an opportunity here – a place that means a lot to me.”
While essentially a rookie head coach with just one season on the staff at the Royal Military College in Kingston prior to returning home, Pierce has proven he can get the job done. He’s pulled the Centennials into fifth place in the Interior Conference on the strength of a 9-9-0-1 record since being called into duty.
“My biggest goal was to actually create a culture – something that was lacking I thought,” Pierce says. “We really needed to form an identity of who we were going to be as a team. That was really the first step – really pushing an identity of being a difficult team to play against and a hard-working group.”
Pierce was known as a gritty hockey player with lots of character during his playing days in Merritt and at RMC, and the Cents have already shown resilience and toughness during his tenure.
“The biggest difference is our competitiveness. Last week, we were really frustrated losing to Penticton in a game we thought we should’ve won, but two months ago we would’ve been happy just keeping that game close,” explained Pierce. “We’ve had a lot of come-from-behind wins, which to me speaks to their willingness to never give up, whereas before we’d get down by a few goals and next thing you know it’s 8-1.”
The 25-year-old has brought a tremendous amount of positive energy into the locker room – something he found to be a challenge with the losing culture – and he maintains a genuine belief in his players, stressing they can compete with any team in the league.
“I’m really big on the mental side of the game,” Pierce said. “I think it’s really important with this age of kids, keeping people positive and giving them a real sense of belief in their abilities.”
Centennials’ captain Jordan Soquila has seen a significant difference in the team’s play and his own game under Pierce’s leadership.
“The best thing about Luke is he’s 110 percent behind us. He believes and knows we’re a winning team. He thinks every single guy on this team has the skill and the talent to do what the team needs to win,” says Soquila, who’s put up 40 points in 46 games this season.
“It’s a great feeling. It’s a complete turnaround from last year. Winning makes everyone on the team happy and keeps the spirits high. You want to go to the rink and practice and play and go to hockey,” he added.
Winning also has its positive side-effects away from the rink. Barrett points to a lack of attendance and turnover of personnel over the past three seasons as by-products of a struggling oragnization.
“The chemistry the last few years on the team wasn’t that great, and I think it became a problem to get kids to come here and stay here,” he explains. “Then, of course, when you’re not winning, people stay away in droves. It’s hard to go out there and garner that corporate financial support.”
But now with Pierce firmly in place in his old backyard, junior hockey in Merritt has been revived in the short term – with the playoffs in sight – and should continue to flourish with his presence behind the Centennials’ bench.
“The overall play has improved tremendously and I really believe that if we get all areas of our game going here with the defense, our offense, our goaltending, we’re going to be a team to be reckoned with down the stretch and in the playoffs,” concludes Barrett.
Foursome Of BCHL Teams Check In On CJHL's Latest Top 20 Rankings:
Foursome of BCHL teams check in on CJHL's latest Top 20 rankingsMonday, January 25, 2010 - Submitted by CJHL Network
The Canadian Junior Hockey League (CJHL) announced today its Weekly Top 20 rankings in conjunction with NHL Central Scouting. Last week’s rankings and the leagues in which the teams belong to are in parenthesis.
The CJHL Weekly Top 20 as of Monday, January 25, 2010:
1. (1) Spruce Grove Saints (AJHL)
2. (2) Vernon Vipers (BCHL)
3. (3) Penticton Vees (BCHL)
4. (6) Kingston Voyageurs (OJAHL)
5. (4) Grande Prairie Storm (AJHL)
6. (7) Oakville Blades (OJAHL)
7. (5) Dauphin Kings (MJHL)
8. (9) Alberni Valley Bulldogs (BCHL)
9. (8) Woodstock Slammers (MJAHL)
10. (11) Brockville Braves (CJHL)
11. (10) Georgetown Raiders (OJAHL)
12. (12) Pembroke Lumber Kings (CJHL)
13. (14) Westside Warriors (BCHL)
14. (13) Fort William North Stars (SIJHL)
15. (15) Fort McMurray Oil Barons (AJHL)
16. (16) Weyburn Red Wings (SJHL)
17. (18) Flin Flon Bombers (SJHL)
18. (17) Burlington Cougars (CCHL)
19. (19) Abitibi Eskimos (NOJHL)
20. (20) Les Cobras de Terrebonne (LHJAAAQ)
Honorable mention goes to the Okotoks Oilers (AJHL), Notre Dame Hounds (SJHL), Selkirk Steelers (MJHL), Bowmanville Eagles (CCHL), and the Truro Bearcats (MJAHL).
The rankings are based upon a variety of factors which includes the league in which the teams belong to, their winning percentage, their win-loss record, total points accumulated, their goals-for versus goals-against ratio, amongst other factors.
The CJHL is an amalgamation of eleven Junior A hockey leagues from across Canada. More information on the CJHL can be found by clicking on the league website. http://www.cjhlhockey.com/
Vipers Player Profile With Jonathan Milhouse:
Kiss FM's Rob Abramenko has once again made one of his great Vernon Vipers video's, Abro just finished player profile with Vipers forward, Jonathan Milhouse. Check it out,http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YfsCVkq-wns
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Former Viper Zaba Makes NHL Debut vs Canadiens:
This was posted on the New York Rangers website:John Tortorella decided to give his star goalie the rest of the night off at this point as the Rangers head coach replaced Lundqvist with rookie Matt Zaba. Lundqvist allowed four goals on 15 shots, stopping only two of five shots in the middle stanza.
The appearance for Zaba marked the National Hockey League debut for the 26-year-old from Saskatchewan. He made his first save at 9:45 on a Mathieu Darche backhand attempt from in close. However, a minute after that he surrendered his first goal in the NHL.
Zaba also surrendered a goal to Tomas Plekanec at 9:28 of the third period with the Canadiens skating on a two-man power play advantage. Zaba finished with 14 saves. Montreal knocked off the Rangers 6-0 Saturday night.
Matt Zaba's Player Profile,
http://rangers.nhl.com/club/player.htm?id=8470820
Rangers Call Up Former Viper Zaba From Hartford:
This is posted on the New York Rangers website:Rangers call up goalie Zaba from Hartford
Johnson sent down to receive more playing time in AHL this week
Wednesday, 01.20.2010
New York Rangers President and General Manager Glen Sather announced today that goaltender Chad Johnson has been assigned to the Hartford Wolf Pack of the American Hockey League (AHL), and Matt Zaba has been recalled from Hartford.
Johnson, 23, made his third appearance with the Rangers on Saturday, stopping 21 shots in a 4-1 loss at St. Louis. He has a record of 0-1-1 with a 2.58 goals against average and a .908 save percentage along with one assist this season. Johnson registered an assist, made 31 saves through regulation/overtime and stopped three of five shootout attempts while making his first career NHL start with the Rangers on January 7 at Atlanta. He made his NHL debut with 17 saves on December 30 vs. Philadelphia, and has dressed as Henrik Lundqvist's backup in 18 games.
Johnson returns to Hartford where he has posted a 13-7-2 record with a 2.02 goals against average, .929 save percentage and three shutouts in 23 games this season. He ranked fifth in the AHL in goals against average, and was tied for fourth in shutouts, fifth in save percentage and eighth in wins at the time of his recall on January 11. Johnson registered a season-high four-game winning streak, beginning with his first career AHL shutout on October 31 against Providence to November 7 at Bridgeport.
He also notched back-to-back shutouts on November 13 vs. Manchester (26 saves) and November 14 at Worcester (35 saves). The AHL rookie made his debut with Hartford on October 9 at Providence, and recorded his first AHL win the following game on October 10 against Springfield.
The Calgary, Alberta native was originally the Pittsburgh Penguins' fifth round selection, 125th overall, in the 2006 NHL Entry Draft. He was acquired by the Rangers on June 27, 2009, in exchange for a fifth round selection (Andy Bathgate) in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft.
Zaba, 26, has posted a record of 2-2-0 with a 2.48 goals against average and .918 save percentage in four games with Hartford since dressing as Lundqvist's backup on January 2 vs. Carolina and January 4 vs. Boston. He has posted a 3-4-1 record with a 3.45 goals against average and .888 save percentage in 12 AHL games this season.
Last season, Zaba ranked seventh in the AHL in goals against average (2.33), tied for eighth in save percentage (.920) and 12th in wins (25). He also led the league in shootout save percentage with a .930% success rate. Zaba was named AHL Goaltender of the Month for February, and he finished the regular season with a 14-2-0 mark and a 1.84 goals against average, a .937 save percentage and one shutout in his final 16 contests. He made his AHL debut on October 18, 2008, at Toronto.
The Yorkton, Saskatchewan native was originally the Los Angeles Kings eighth round selection, 231st overall, in the 2003 NHL Entry Draft. He was signed by the Rangers as a free agent on August 20, 2007.
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