Final Day From Sun Valley Showcase:

I was unable to make it down to the Wesbild Centre today to catch any of the final day from the Sun Valley Showcase. Im now looking forward to the Vipers training camp starting August 23rd.

Former Viper Pierce Comments On Former Viper Steve Tresierra Being Named Cents Captain:

This is posted on Brian Wiebe's Merritt Centennials Blog:

COACH’S COMMENTS

Published: July 27, 2010 6:00 PM

By Luke Pierce, Head Coach

Merritt Centennials Hockey Club

As the weather continues to heat up outside, things are cooling down over here at the Nicola Valley Memorial Arena. With the ice now installed for the upcoming hockey year, it gives me not only a much cooler office, but a serious reminder that the 2010-11 BCHL hockey season is fast approaching. There’s just four weeks remaining until the opening of training camp, and things are really starting to take shape.

We have made numerous changes and announcements over the past three months that I hope you as fans have read about and listened to. This week, I would like to discuss our most recent one - the announcement of the return of Steve Tresierra for the coming season, and his appointment as our team captain.

Leadership is perhaps one of the most crucial concepts in any setting that involves a team, or any group of people that are working towards a common task. There is a reason why such emphasis is placed on these positions; they come with grave amounts of responsibility. The entire premise of leadership is to inspire people to do things that they likely wouldn’t do on their own. Not a simple task, regardless of the situation.

Now, being a captain of a hockey team is much less demanding than leading a country, or commanding troops in a battle, but, nonetheless, there are responsibilities here. So, why have we chosen Steve Tresierra to take this on?

Steve is a natural leader. He is confident, hard-working, respectful and extremely determined to succeed. Although it is not a necessary requirement for successful leadership, he is well-liked by his teammates and generally anyone he comes into contact with. But what I believe will make Steve a great leader is something that I don’t think most people look at. He is a personal leader. By that, I mean he leads himself in a very efficient manner, which is something many people struggle with. I’ve seen leaders in the past who are great at inspiring others, but struggle to control themselves.

At the end of the day, if every player in our room can take on personal leadership, there really is no need for an external source of inspiration and direction. Now, I’m not saying that Steve won’t be able to provide inspiration to his teammates, because with his work ethic, it’s hard not to be inspiring. However, I’m hoping that each player will be able to observe the way he conducts himself and emulate that behaviour to become their own personal leaders.

Steve will have success in helping to create personal leaders because he is not a big talker. He leads by example, by conduct. That is what I’m hoping will become contagious. I’m also confident that Steve is here to win, and that he knows he may have to make some unpopular recommendations at times in an effort to ensure the best interests of the group are being met.

The hardest part about being a leader is telling your peers, and usually friends, that they aren’t working hard enough, or that they shouldn’t be staying out late tonight. But I’m confident that Steve knows why he is here, and that sometimes those decisions have to be made to preserve not only his interests, but the interest of our hockey club.

Steve is set to lead our team at a crucial time in the history of the organization, and I don’t think we could have asked for a better person to take on this responsibility. Congratulations Steve!

Day 3 From The Sun Valley Showcase:

I didnt get a chance to get down to the rink today to catch any of the Sun Valley Showcase. The final game was at 4pm today. I'm hoping to get down to the Wesbild Centre tomorrow morning to catch one of the final or final two games of the Showcase.

Day 2 From The Sun Valley Showcase:

I stopped by the Wesbild Centre after work tonight and caught the final two periods between Team Red & Team Grey. Team Greay won 6-5 in a Shoot-Out.

A few more people watching tonights game compared to last nights game.

I was very impressed with Vipers forward Aaron Hadley, forward Colton Sparrow, & goaltender Tyler Steel. David Robinson and Dylan Walchuk both played defence.

Former Vernon Vipers Captain, Chris Crowell was one of the linesmen.

Here are the team rosters:

Team Red:

Austin Sture 92
Taylor Egan 92
Chris Sture 93
Mitchell Ferguson 94
Cameron Weir 92
Alex Prestegard 94
Ryan Stanimir 91
Pearce Eviston 92
Uriah Machuga
Ryland Gallagher 93
Kurtis Hagen 92
Jaymes Veitch 94
Adriano Munglioni 93
Jarrett Martin 93
Jordan Kamprath 93

Goaltenders:

Kevin Verhoeff 94
Mathew McIntosh 92

Team White:

Mark Whitely 93
Brett Corkey 92 (Recruited-Committed To The Vipers)
Walker Sidoni 94
Zach Urban 93
Jacob Santurbano 91
Max Vallis 91
David Henry 92
Marcus Basara 93 (Recruited-Committed To The Vipers)
Dayton Shaw 91
Tanner Cochrane 93
Travis Blanleil 94
Mason Chew 93
Steven Killy 93
Nick Crosby 92
Brandon Bruce 93
Joel Issigonis

Goaltenders:

Michael Hails 94
Justin Goritz 92 (Was at the Vipers training camp last year)

Team Blue:

Brian White 91
Bryce Kakoske 90 (Returning Viper From Last Year)
Dylan Chanter 95
Zach McLellan 92
Daniel Anhorn 93
Duncan Williams 92
Jake Wensley 93
Trevor Fitzgerald 92 (Returning Viper From Last Year)
Karson Holt 91
Konrad Litke 92
Braeden Russell 93
Jeffrey Hodgkinson 92
Jeremy Macdonald 93
Ryan Midtdal 92
Ben Greenaway 93
Matt Lambert 94

Goaltenders:

Kody Blois 91
Kevin Ruggles 92

Team Black:

Brendan Shirbinnin 93
Bennett Hambrook 92
Logan Hawgood 93 (Was at the Vipers training camp last year)
Corbin Legros 92
Graham Zagrodney 93
Brandon Merritt 92
Dustin Demuth 93
Gus Correale 93
Locke Muller 93
Ryley Spraggs 92
Mitchell Fyffe 94
Ryan Scheidt 94
Josh McGladdery 92
Mat Lorito 90
Colton Luke 93
John Tesarek 95
Jordan Robertson 91

Goaltenders:

Bryton Udy 93
Malkit Nijjer 93

Team Grey:

Taylor Love 92
Phillip Patenaude 91
Mathew Billingsley 94
Nick Homeniuk 94
Michael Pond 92
John Saunders 94
Aaron Hadley 93 (Recruited-Committed To The Vipers)
Dylan Walchuk 92 (Returning Viper From Last Year)
Colton Sparrow 93 (Was at the Vipers training camp last year)
Jordan Bledsoe 91
Joey Baker 93
Tanner Burns 93
Cory Love 90
Patrick Rodgers 93
Cliff High 93
Sean Alldrdge 92
Alex Jewell 94
David Robinson 90 (Returning Viper From Last Year)

Goaltenders:

Tyler Steel 93 (Was at the Vipers training camp last year)
Sean Spinney 92

Day 1 From The Sun Valley Showcase:

I stopped in after work tonight and caught the final two periods of the final game of Day 1 of the Sun Valley Showcase. I was of course too late and didnt get a lineup sheet but did borrow someones and saw a few Vernon Vipers on some of the team rosters.

Forward Bryce Kakoske 20 yrs old
Forward Trevor Fitzgerald 17 yrs old
Forward Marcus Basara 17 yrs old
Defence Brett Corkey 18 yrs old

I also reconised a few of the names from a few of the kids that were at the Vipers training camp last year.

I was impressed with a few kids tonight on both team Black and team Blue. I didnt see many scouts-coaches tonight but talked to one fellow who said he was at the afternoon game and saw lots of coaches and scouts in the stands.

I will try and snag a lineup sheet tomorrow.

Ice Is In, Showcase Is On:

This is posted on the Vipers website:

ice is in, showcase is on

by viper staff Added 2010-07-28

The Sunvalley Showcase is taking place at Wesbild Centre this week from the 28th-31st. Open to the general public, most spectators are scouts from Junior A and B hockey as well as the NCAA and the NHL. Players from all over North America are hitting the ice to showcase their skills and hopefully get noticed by one of the many scouts.

Schedule;

Wednesday
10am, 12pm, 3pm, 5pm

Thursday
9am, 11am, 2pm, 5pm

Friday
9am, 11am, 2pm, 4pm

Saturday
9am, 11am, 1pm

For more information email info@sunvalleyshowcase.com or visit www.sunvalleyshowcase.com

Vipers Hosting Showcase:

This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:

Vipers hosting Showcase

Published: July 27, 2010

Summer is barely half over, but minds are already turning towards the next B.C. Hockey League season.

With a fresh sheet of ice at Wesbild Centre, around 90 prospects will display their talent in front of junior, college and professional scouts at the inaugural Sun Valley Showcase, which starts today and ends Saturday.

Hosted by Vernon Viper coaches Mark Ferner and Jason Williamson, the Showcase will divide players into five teams to play one another in a round-robin. Teams also get practice sessions and seminars.

“It’s a showcase to for these kids to get scouted by not only BCHL, but also junior B, NCAA and WHL scouts,” said Williamson. “There’s even going to be a few NHL scouts there.”

Williamson added the Showcase also means good exposure for Vernon, and for the Vipers.

Games and practices are running daily.

Former Vernon Laker Drake Makes B.C. Hockey Hall Of Fame:

Once a key Red Wing, Dallas Drake makes B.C. Hockey Hall of Fame

BY HELENE ST. JAMES

FREE PRESS SPORTS WRITER

Three years ago, the Red Wings gambled on a former draft pick who they thought could help their championship chase.

That guy, Dallas Drake, went on to become another example of why an aged veteran can be so valuable, as he played a key role in helping the Wings to the 2008 Stanley Cup.
Over the next couple of days, Drake will be celebrated as one of the 2010 inductees into the British Columbia Hockey Hall of Fame, located in Penticton, B.C. Drake is from Trail, B.C.

Drake lives in Traverse City, where he is director of hockey for the Grand Traverse Youth Hockey Association.

Originally a sixth-round pick by the Wings in 1989, Drake had gone on to play with Winnipeg/Phoenix and St. Louis when the Wings plucked the 38-year-old from the free-agent market in July 2007.

"We brought him back because we thought he had character, he played hard, he played physical," general manager Ken Holland said Wednesday. "We knew if he came to Detroit and played a few less minutes, played in a checking role, an energy role, that we could squeeze some good hockey out of him. I thought we did so, especially in the playoffs."
Drake was particularly memorable in Game 6 of the third-round series against Dallas, when he scored one goal and set up another that bounced in off Kris Draper's face. A little more than two weeks later, captain Nicklas Lidstrom handed the Cup to Drake.
"He was popular in the locker room," Holland said. "As we got deep into the playoffs, guys wanted to win for Dallas."

Former Viper MacGregor Signs With HC Trinec:

This is posted on Brian Wiebes Merritt Centennials Blog:

F Bryan MacGregor (Vernon-Cowichan Valley, 2002-03) has signed a one-year deal with HC Trinec (Czech Extraliga). MacGregor played last season with Vaasan Sport (Finland Mestis), scoring 25 goals and 32 assists in 43 games.

Former Viper Derton Signs With Miskolci Jegesmedve JSE:

Many thanks to Brian Wiebe who posted this on his Merritt Centennials Blog, Brian your beating me to all the former Vipers news lol Thanks again for doing a great job on your blog! Keep up the good work!

D Andrew Derton (Powell River/Vernon, 2000-03) has signed a one-year contract with Miskolci Jegesmedve JSE (Hungary MOL Liga). Derton spent last season playing senior men's hockey with the Fort St. John Flyers, posting 13 goals and 14 assists in 15 games. The Powell River product played with the Eaters Geleen (Netherlands Eredivisie) in 2008-09 with ten goals and 23 assists in 40 games.

BCHL Rivals Come Together For WJAC Ticket Promotion:

This is posted on the Vipers website:

BCHL rivals come together for wjac ticket promotion

by hockey canada Added 2010-07-27

On any given night during the B.C. Hockey League season, it’s not uncommon to see any two of the Penticton Vees, Vernon Vipers, Salmon Arm Silverbacks and Westside Warriors facing off, usually with first place in the BCHL’s Interior Conference on the line.

Those four teams have provided B.C. hockey fans with classic battles in recent years, from preseason meetings with nothing but bragging rights up for grabs to playoff clashes with everything to play for.

But now the teams, along with the rest of the BCHL’s 16 franchises, are coming together as their league prepares to welcome not only the Canadian Junior A hockey community, but the hockey world at the 2010 World Junior A Challenge this November in Penticton.

The highlight of the group effort is the BCHL Fan Pack, a ticket package being offered exclusively to season ticket holders of all BCHL teams. The package includes tickets to all 13 games for just $99 – less than $8 per game.

Those who purchase the package also receive:

• a personalized BCHL Fan Pass
• a free tournament souvenir program
• the chance to win Canada West player jerseys from BCHL players
• the chance to win Ultimate WJAC Fan Experience, which includes:
o a second event package
o VIP access
o an autographed Canada West jersey

“Fans of our league are among the most passionate hockey fans in Canada, and we wanted to offer a package to allow them to see the best Junior A hockey our country has to offer, regardless of where they live or who they cheer for,” says John Grisdale, commissioner of the B.C. Hockey League. “We’re hopeful that a number of our fans will make the trek to Penticton this fall and see the cream of the Junior A crop in action.”

The 2010 World Junior A Challenge will mark the second time in four years the tournament will come to a BCHL Interior Conference city – in 2007, more than 3,000 fans jammed historic Cominco Arena in Trail, B.C. to watch Canada West win their second-consecutive WJAC gold medal.

To be a part of the 2010 World Junior A Challenge, call 1-877-763-2849, check out www.valleyfirsttix.com or visit the box office at the South Okanagan Events Centre or the Wine Country Visitors Centre.

Right now, the only ticket options are the BCHL Fan Pack and a full-tournament package for $119, which includes tickets to all 13 games, plus a specialized WJAC tournament pass and a souvenir event program. Single-game tickets will go on sale to the public closer to the start of the event.

Former Viper Strong Signs With Grizzly Adams:

Thanks to Brian Wiebe for posting this on his Merritt Centennials Blog today:

F Dean Strong (Vernon, 2004-05) signed a one-year contract with Grizzly Adams Wolfsburg (German DEL). Strong had two goals and three assists in 16 games with Worcester (AHL) last season. He also had 16 goals and 21 assists in 34 games with Kalamazoo (ECHL).

Strong will join another former Vernon Viper as forward, Kenny Magowan will be entering his third season with Grizzly Adam's.

For an article on the Strong signing click the link below,

http://translate.google.ca/translate?hl=en&sl=de&u=http://www.eishockey.net/grizzly-adams-ehc-wolfsburg/wolfsburg-verpflichtet-center-dean-strong.html&ei=Z91NTNrXLoOCsQPPrYlJ&sa=X&oi=translate&ct=result&resnum=2&ved=0CB0Q7gEwAQ&prev=/search%3Fq%3Ddean%2Bstrong%2Bsigns%2Bwith%2Bgrizzly%2Badams%26hl%3Den%26prmd%3Do

New Ice Hit's Wesbild Centre:

This was in yesterdays Morning Star Newspaper:

Mike Mailloux runs a boom loaded with paint nozzles while Mike McGuigan protects the boards from being coated in white Friday as crews paint up the first layer of ice going in for a new season at the Wesbild Centre.

Vernon Vipers 2010-11 Regular Season Schedule:

Vernon Vipers 2010-11 Regular Season Schedule:

Friday, September 10th Salmon Arm @ Vernon 7:00 pm

Saturday, September 11th Vernon @ Salmon Arm 7:00 pm

Friday, September 17th Vernon @ Penticton 7:00 pm

Saturday, September 18th Penticton @ Vernon 7:00 pm

Tuesday, September 21st Merritt @ Vernon 7:00 pm

Friday, September 24th Vernon @ Prince George 7:00 pm

Saturday, September 25th Vernon @ Quesnel 7:30 pm

Sunday, September 26th Vernon @ Prince George 3:00 pm

Friday, October 1st Vernon @ Trail 7:30 pm

Saturday, October 2nd Cowichan Valley @ Vernon 7:00 pm

Sunday, October 3rd Vernon @ Merritt 2:00 pm

Wednesday, October 6th Quesnel @ Vernon 7:00 pm

Friday, October 8th Vernon @ Westside 7:00 pm

Saturday, October 9th Westside @ Vernon 7:00 pm

Friday, October 15th Vernon @ Trail 7:30 pm

Saturday, October 16th Trail @ Vernon 7:00 pm

Friday, October 22nd Vernon @ Penticton 7:00 pm

Saturday, October 23rd Quesnel @ Vernon 7:00 pm

Sunday, October 24th Prince George @ Vernon 2:00 pm

Friday, October 29th Vernon @ Quesnel 7:30 pm

Saturday, October 30th Victoria @ Vernon 7:00 pm

Friday, November 5th Vernon @ Merritt 7:30 pm

Saturday, November 6th Prince George @ Vernon 7:00 pm

Friday, November 12th Salmon Arm @ Vernon 7:00 pm

Saturday, November 13th Vernon @ Salmon Arm 7:00 pm

Wednesday, November 17th Vernon @ Powell River 7:00 pm

Friday, November 19th Vernon @ Coquitlam 7:00 pm

Saturday, November 20th Vernon @ Langley 7:00 pm

Sunday, November 21st Vernon @ Surrey 4:00 pm

Friday, November 26th Trail @ Vernon 7:00 pm

Friday, December 3rd Westside @ Vernon 7:00 pm

Saturday, December 4th Vernon @ Westside 7:00 pm

Sunday, December 5th Surrey @ Vernon 2:00 pm

Wedmesday, December 8th Vernon @ Cowichan Valley 7:00 pm

Friday, December 10th Vernon @ Victoria 7:15 pm

Saturday, December 11th Vernon @ Alberni Valley 7:00 pm

Sunday, December 12th Vernon @ Nanaimo 3:00 pm

Friday, December 17th Vernon @ Penticton 7:00 pm

Wednesday, December 29th Vernon @ Salmon Arm 7:00 pm

Thursday, December 30th Salmon Arm @ Vernon 7:00 pm

Saturday, January 1st Penticton @ Vernon 7:00 pm

Thursday, January 6th Langley @ Vernon 7:00 pm

Friday, January 7th Vernon @ Westside 7:00 pm

Saturday, January 8th Westside @ Vernon 7:00 pm

Friday, January 14th Vernon @ Quesnel 7:30 pm

Saturday, January 15th Vernon @ Prince George 7:00 pm

Tuesday, January 18th Merritt @ Vernon 7:00 pm

Friday, January 21st Powell River @ Vernon 7:00 pm

Saturday, January 22nd Coquitlam @ Vernon 7:00 pm

Tuesday, January 25th Salmon Arm @ Vernon 7:00 pm

Friday, January 28th Prince George @ Vernon 7:00 pm

Saturday, January 29th Vernon @ Trail 7:30 pm

Wednesday February 2nd Nanaimo @ Vernon 7:00 pm

Friday, February 4th Alberni Valley @ Vernon 7:00 pm

Saturday, February 5th Penticton @ Vernon 7:00 pm

Wednesday, February 9th Vernon @ Salmon Arm 7:00 pm

Friday, Febriary 11th Merritt @ Vernon 7:00 pm

Tuesday, February 15th Vernon @ Merritt 7:00 pm

Friday, February 18th Trail @ Vernon 7:00 pm

Sunday, February 20th Quesnel @ Vernon 2:00 pm

One Month Till Vipers Season!

One month today until the Vernon Vipers open up their 2010-11 season with the teams training camp getting underway August 23rd. The Vipers will open the regular season with a home and home series vs the Salmon Arm Silverbacks starting Friday, September 10th in Vernon and Saturday, September 11th in Salmon Arm.

Let's take a look at what the Vipers have done so far in the off season,

Thursday, May 27th- Vipers defenseman Garrett Noonan announced he will not be returning to Vernon this season, after heading to Boston University.

http://vipersdiehardfan.blogspot.com/2010/05/this-is-posted-on-vipers-website-noonan.html

Friday, May 28th- The Vipers signed 18 yr old forward, Todd Skirving for the 2010-11 season.

http://vipersdiehardfan.blogspot.com/2010/05/skirving-committs-to-vipers.html

Tuesday, June 8th- The Vipers signed 17 year old forward, Marcus Basara for the 2010-11 season.

http://vipersdiehardfan.blogspot.com/2010/06/basara-commits-to-vipers.html

Monday, June 14th- The Vipers announced they traded defenseman, Darrin Robak to the Cowichan Capitals. Robak was the future's part of the Curtis Gedig trade last season.

http://vipersdiehardfan.blogspot.com/2010/06/vernon-cowichan-trade.html

Tuesday, June 15th- The Vipers signed 17 yr old forward, Darren Nowick & 18 yr old defenseman, Brett Corkey for the 2010-11 season.

http://vipersdiehardfan.blogspot.com/2010/06/nowick-corkey-commit-to-vipers.html

Sunday, June 27th- The Vipers announced 20 year old Vernon product, David Robinson was named the Vipers Captain for this coming season.

http://vipersdiehardfan.blogspot.com/2010/06/robinson-next-in-line.html


With five new recruits committed and a possible seven returning veterans back from last year’s championship team, let’s take a look at the Vipers updated roster.

Forward Bryce Kakoske 20 yrs old
Forward Patrick McGillis 19 yrs old
Forward David Robinson 20 yrs old
Forward Dylan Walchuk 18 yrs old
Forward Trevor Fitzgerald 17 yrs old
Forward Aaron Hadley 16 yrs old
Forward Todd Skirving 18 yrs old
Forward Marcus Basara 17 yrs old
Forward Darren Nowick 17 yrs old

Defence Steve Weinstein 20 yrs old
Defence Adam Thompson 20 yrs old
Defence Brett Corkey 18 yrs old

Goaltender Blake Voth 18 yrs old

Get Your Vipers Season Tickets!

This is posted on the Vipers website:

Hockey Fans of all ages are reminded to get your Vernon Vipers Season Tickets before home opener and save $60 off the walk-up price! Great seats are available and are available on a first-come first-serve basis. Come cheer on the 6 Time National Champion Vernon Vipers as they try to set new records and continue to be one of the best junior A hockey teams in Canada.
For more information on Vernon Vipers Season Tickets please call 250-542-6022

Congrats Kevin!

Id like to take this time to congratulate former Vipers defenseman Kevin Kraus on his signing with the CHL's Texas Brahmas. Not many Viper fans were big fans of Kevin, But I was one of the few. I thought Kevin improved his game each and all of the three season's spent playing in Vernon. Mark Ferner and the Vipers coaching staff had alot to do with this. I thought Kevin's best year was 2009, Kevin really stepped up his play come the 2009 playoffs, I thought Kevin played his best hockey as a Viper helping the Vipers win the 2009 Royal Bank Cup. Kraus was a warrior during the playoffs that year, I will never forget Kevin having a heck of a series vs Salmon Arm, blocking shots, getting injured and still playing on basically one leg and still took a regular shift. I will never forget Kevin sucking it up, and still blocking shots on one leg late in one of those games vs the Silverbacks. What a series he had. I was thrilled to hear Kevin signed a pro contract, and still has a chance to play the game he loves. Kevin is the first American born Captain to help the Vipers-Lakers win the National Championship.

Thanks for three great years in Vernon, nothing but great memories for sure! I wish you all the best in Texas and the rest of your hockey career.

Snakes Bitten:

This letter was in todays Morning Star Newspaper:

Snakes Bitten

I am somewhat surprised that Vernon city council would spend taxpayers dollars on yet another ugly billboard at the entrance to our city advertising a commercial enterprise, namely the Vernon Vipers.
Don't we have enough of that with the federal and provincial politicians and their signage all over the place advertising their spending of our money?
Maybe they should spend the billboard money on cleaning up the entrance to the city, all the garbage on the side of the road and the weeds in the brick traffic dividers.

Michael O'Fallon

Former Viper Cook Named Grizzlies Assistant Coach:

This is posted on the Grizzlies website:

GRIZZLIES ADD COOK TO COACHING RANKS

July 20, 2010 Victoria Grizzlies -

The Victoria Grizzlies have added defensive power to their bench with the announcement that former Salmon Kings blue-liner Brad Cook is coming on board as an assistant coach.

Cook won the RBC Cup in 1996 in an all-star B.C. Hockey League season with the Vernon Vipers, then went on to play 12 seasons in the minor pro leagues. The coach of the Vancouver Island Junior Hockey League Saanich Braves last year, Cook runs hockey schools and clinics and has recently been named head coach of the hockey academy at Spectrum.

"He brings a lot of knowledge to the defensive part of the game. He's really going to help us out," Grizzlies coach Victor Gervais said, adding former goaltender coach David Brumby is returning to the team, as well.

Last year, Wade Bartley began the BCHL campaign as the Victoria assistant coach, but left the team mid-season to return to his home in the United States. Former Salmon King Nate Forster took over, but wasn't able to fully commit, due to his job as a firefighter. The situation is different for Cook.

"Coaching is my job," said the 35-year-old native of Southgate, Mich.. "I was in the VIJHL for four years, and I loved every minute of it."

Cook is looking forward to moving up from Junior B to the Junior A Grizzlies and being challenged by the next level of coaching. His strategy is to get to know his players, and teach them to use their strong points to the best advantage.

"I think I can show kids some things they might not have seen before."

Cook expects his defencemen to be well rounded and not shy about making plays. He believes in creative thinking, rather than just banging the puck off the boards or glass and hoping something happens.

"I want them to get their feet moving and make plays," he said. "If there's no play, the glass and boards will always be there."

BEAR TRACKS: With Cook moving to the Grizzlies, Robin Gomez, yet another former Salmon King, is stepping into his role coaching the Braves.

Centennials Name Former Viper Tresierra Captain:

This is posted on Brian Wiebe's Merritt Centennials Blog as well as the Cents website:

Cents Name Steve Tresierra 2010-11 Team Captain

Merritt, BC – July 20, 2010

The Merritt Centennials are pleased to announce their captain for the 2010-11 season. Wearing the “C” will be three-year BCHL veteran defenceman Steve Tresierra.

“We are delighted that not only has Steve decided to return to Merritt for another season, but that he has agreed to take on the responsibility of being our captain. He provides the necessary foundation for creating a culture based on character, work ethic and determination,” said Cents head coach and GM Luke Pierce. “Steve's a tremendous individual who is well liked and respected in our community, and an elite player in our league who commands the respect of his opponents.”

Pierce continued, “He sets the precedent for what is expected of our players and it will be the responsibility of each member of this team to emulate the characteristics that led to Steve being given this honour.”

Assistant captains will be named at a later date.

Former Viper Morgan Having Problems Stealing Bases:

This is on the Nationals website:

Morgan having problems stealing bases

CINCINNATI -- Although Nationals center fielder Nyjer Morgan is showing signs of life with the bat, he is having problems stealing bases. Entering Monday's game against the Reds, Morgan has stolen 21 bases and been caught 13 times.

Morgan is baffled as to why he has not been successful this year. In 2009, Morgan stole 24 bases and was caught seven times before breaking his left hand sliding into third base in late August against the Cubs.

"I've never been through a rut like this, not even in the Minors. I'm not hurting physically and I don't feel slow," Morgan said. "I have to be smarter and understand the situations -- when it's the right time to run and not just running to run."

Former Vernon Laker Metropolit Wont Be Back With Habs:

This was posted in the Montreal Gazette Newspaper:

Goodbye to Moore, Metro, Bergeron

posted by Pat Hickey at 21h08 EST on Jul 6

General manager Pierre Gauthier confirmed today that Dominic Moore, Marc-Andre Bergeron, Paul Mara and Glen Metropolit are not in the Canadiens' plans for next season. Gauthier said he informed the four unrestricted free agents that the team was not interested in negotiating with them. Gauthier said he thanked the four for their contributions last season but said the players didn't fit in the Canadiens' plans.

Congrats Kellen!

It's been a busy summer to date, and have been meaning to write this for sometime. I'd first off like to take the time to personally congratulate Vipers forward, Kellen Jones on getting drafted back in June by the Edmonton Oilers. Great news when any BCHLer gets drafted into the NHL. This is the second straight year the Oilers have drafted a Vernon Viper, as defenseman Kyle Bigos was picked by Edmonton in 2009. It was great to see Both Kellen & Connor Jones at the Edmonton Oilers Development Camp just a few weeks back. I wish you both nothing but the best!

I would like to wish Kellen & Connor all the best at Quinnipiac and then making the big jump to the NHL. Viper fans are sure going to miss the both of you, while the rest of the League's fans arn't complaining. Both Jones Twins were huge fan favorite's here in Vernon and very disliked as a visitor on the road. It's going to be very strange come the regular season when someone other then Connor & Kellen Jones will be wearing #10 & #15. Both Jones brothers seemed to have been in a Vipers uniform for ages, so to not see one or the both of them at training camp this coming August will be very different. Congrats as well to the other three BCHLers (Beau Bennett, Mark MacMillan, & Isaac MacLeod) who also were drafted. Best of luck!

Here is a list of all former Vernon Junior Hockey players who have been drafted into the NHL over the year's. I may be missing some players, so please let me know, so I can update my blog.

1986 Murray Baron 167 Philadelphia
1986 Scott King 190 Detroit
1987 Dennis Holland 52 Detroit
1987 Kevin Scott 158 Detroit
1988 Dane Jackson 44 Vancouver
1988 Troy Mick 130 Pittsburgh
1989 Jason Marshall 9 St.Louis
1989 Dallas Drake 116 Detroit
1989 Mike Barkley 119 Buffalo
1989 Darcy Martini 162 Edmonton
1991 Bill Lindsay 103 Quebec
1991 Jamie Steer NHL Supplemental Draft Buffalo
1993 Todd Kelman 141 St.Louis
1994 Tyler Harlton 94 St.Louis
1996 Josh MacNevin 101 New Jersey
1996 Jeff Scissons 201 Vancouver
1999 Josh Reed 172 Vancouver
2000 Ryan Bayda 80 Carolina
2000 Kenny Magowan 198 New Jersey
2002 Ryan MacMurchy 284 St.Louis
2003 Tyson Strachan 137 Carolina
2003 Chad Brownlee 190 Vancouver
2003 Matt Zaba 231 Los Angeles
2005 Matt Watkins 160 Dallas
2006 Kevin Koopman 181 Ottawa
2009 Kyle Bigos 99 Edmonton
2010 Kellen Jones 202 Edmonton

Former Viper Bayda Signs With IceTigers:

Many thanks go out to Brian Wiebe for posting this on his Merritt Centennials Blog.

Bayda now officially

18 July 2010

The Thomas Sabo Ice Tigers have taken a very experienced striker for the new DEL-season under contract. Ryan Bayda kommt mit der Empfehlung von 194 NHL-Spielen für die Carolina Hurricanes nach Nürnberg. Ryan Bayda comes with the recommendation of 194 NHL games for the Carolina Hurricanes to Nuremberg. Noch vor zwei Jahren hat der 29-jährige Kanadier, der bei den Ice Tigers für den linken Flügel eingeplant ist, eine komplette Saison in Carolina absolviert und ist mit den Hurricanes bis ins Play-off-Halbfinale vorgedrungen. Two years ago, the 29-year-old Canadian, who is scheduled at the Ice Tigers for the left wing, a full season in Carolina and is completed with the Hurricanes advanced to the play-off semi-final. Insgesamt hat Bayda in der besten Eishockeyliga der Welt 18 Tore erzielt und 26 vorbereitet. Overall, Bayda has the best ice hockey league in the world reached 18 goals and 26 prepared.
Zur Saison 2009/10 wechselte Bayda in die Organisation der Pittsburgh Penguins, kam dort aber zu Saisonbeginn nur beim Farmteam, den Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins, zum Einsatz. For the 2009/10 season Bayda joined the organization of the Pittsburgh Penguins came, but only at the beginning of the season affiliate, the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins, are used. Nach 21 Einsätzen, in denen er acht Tore erzielte, zog er sich Ende Januar eine Verletzung zu. After 21 missions, in which he scored eight goals, he moved to the end of January, a violation. Diese ist jedoch - das haben verschiedene, unabhängige Ärzte bestätigt - vollständig verheilt, und Ryan Bayda befindet sich bereits seit längerer Zeit wieder voll und ohne jegliche Beschwerden im Kraft- und Eistraining. However, this is - that have confirmed several independent doctors - completely healed, and Ryan Bayda is already for a long time back fully and without any discomfort in the power and ice training.

Kraus Steers South:

This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:

Kraus steers south

By Graeme Corbett - Vernon Morning Star

Published: July 17, 2010

After three seasons with the Vernon Vipers, Kevin Kraus is headed home to the U.S.

The Garden Grove, Calif. product, who captained the Vernon Vipers to their second straight RBC Cup national junior A hockey title in May, has signed a pro contract with the Texas Brahmas of the Central Hockey League.

Kraus, who turns 21 in September, has spent the months following the national championship win mulling over his options. The 6-foot-2, 205-pound blueliner would have loved a shot at playing European pro hockey, but admits he would have been a long shot to earn a contract.

“It’s hard for us to come out of junior A without making a name for yourself first. There are guys from the Dub (WHL) that have a hard time getting over there,” said Kraus, who posted 50 points and 168 penalty minutes in 129 career games with the Snakes.

As Vipers’ head coach Mark Ferner points out, playing in the CHL is far better than not playing at all.

“It’s not so much where you’re playing, it’s continuing to play. It’s keeping your foot in the door,” said Ferner, who Kraus credits for helping him earn a shot with the Brahmas.

“I’m just happy for Kevin. He kind of bounced around for a bit (in the WHL), but he found a home here.

“He’s not going to be that offensive guy, but when it came down to it, he was a guy that we leaned on and he was a big part of why we won (the RBC).

“We’ve got a couple players in that situation,” added Ferner, referring to Viper veterans Robbie Short and netminder Graeme Gordon.

Kraus, who is currently staying with his family near Everett, Wash., plans on coming back to Vernon to help Ferner with his hockey camps, and getting in some ice time with the Vipers before heading to Texas in late September.

“It’s nice to be home with the family, but I do miss Vernon and I do miss Canada,” said Kraus, whose parents used to live in Texas.

“They said I’ll love it. I’m excited for a new opportunity.”

Kraus has yet to met his new head coach (Dan Wildfong), but says he got a good vibe from talking with him on the phone.

“We talked and I got pretty comfortable with him and felt it was going to be a good fit. They haven’t seen me play, but in that league it’s a lot of word of mouth.

“I’m more of a steady, stay-at-home, physical defenceman, but I’m capable of adding some offence too. I’m going in there pretty confident having had two good years with the Vipers.”

And if Kraus has any questions, he can get some sound advice from older brother, Tim, who plays in the East Coast Hockey League with California-based Ontario Reign.

The CHL is a 15-team league ranging from Arizona to Mississippi in nine states. Seven of those teams are in Texas.

The Brahmas won the CHL championship for the first time in 2009. They finished mid-pack in the 2009-10 season, going 32-25-7.

Connor Jones Interview:

I found a good interview with former Vernon Vipers forward, Connor Jones on his thoughts about his brother Kellen getting drafted. The interview is from the blog "coming down the pipe" Click on the link below, there are some good one on one's with the new Edmonton Oilers prospects and invites from this year's camp. Scroll down the page for Connor's interview.

http://thepipelineshow.blogspot.com/2010/07/one-on-one-oiler-prospects-and-invites.html

Kraus Going To Texas:

This is posted on the Vipers website:

Kraus going to Texas

by viper staff Added 2010-07-16

Kevin Kraus will join the Texas Brahmas of the Central Hockey League for the 2010-2011 season. Kevin helped the Vipers win two National Champions and was named Captain for his final season in Vernon. When asked about going to Texas Kevin replied “I'm excited to go there and have a new experience and play pro hockey. My parents lived in Texas for a bit and they said I will love it and there is good BBQ there which I'm looking forward to!”

The CHL has 15 teams ranging from Arizona to Mississippi in nine states and 7 of those teams are in Texas. Kraus who knows a thing or two about playing against rival teams will bring a solid defensive physical type of game to the team and “just try to play the same type of style I did with the Vipers.” Kraus is also looking forward to playing pro hockey and getting to live in a new place and meet new people. The Brahmas won the CHL championship for the first time in 2009 and Kevin hopes to get them another one.

Vipers coaches, Mark Ferner and Jason Williamson, helped Kevin by making calls and finding a place for Kevin to play and Kraus added “Texas was the best place for me and felt I could contribute most there. I owe a lot to my coaches for there help and I'm very thankful.”

Kevin also added “I just want to thank the fans for supporting me and the team for so long and for making my tenure in Vernon the best it could possible be, and a special thanks to all the Vipers staff for helping me through the years and giving me every opportunity to succeed. I will miss all of you and have a lot of great memories of our times together.”

The Vipers would like wish Kevin all the best in his pro career and know he will succeed in everything he does.

Robinson Good Choice For Vipers Captain:

It's been a busy past few week's with friends weddings, stags and summer activities going on, I havnt had much time to try and keep my blog updated daily. This should have been posted a few weeks back.

Id like to take this time to congratulate Vernon Vipers forward, David Robinson on being named the 2010-11 Vipers captain. Robinson join's the likes of former local products, Kori Davison (1999-00) & Chad Murray (2002-03) as the only Vernon products to wear the "C" for the Vernon Vipers.

I think Dave was a great choice for this year's captain, a local kid as well as someone who know's all about the Vipers rich history. With just a possible seven returning players back from last year's RBC Cup team Dave will have alot of pressure on his shoulders to try and guide the Vipers back to the RBC Cup and try and three peat as National Champions.

Robinson's leadership and gritty play will be called apon this season to help guide and lead the newer younger players joining the Vipers this season. A so called rebuilding year, it will be interesting to see what Mark Ferner and Jason Williamson can do with this year's Vipers.

My guess for assistant captains would be, Adam Thompson, Bryce Kakoske and Steve Weinstein.

Again congrats to David Robinson and nothing but the best in your final season of Junior Hockey.

Vernon Vipers Previous Captains:

2010-11 David Robinson
2009-10 Kevin Kraus
2008-09 Chris Crowell
2007-08 Chris Crowell
2006-07 Mike Ullrich
2005-06 Andy Zulyniak
2004-05 Mark Nelson
2003-04 Jake Wilkens
2002-03 Chad Murray
2001-02 Jason Williamson
2000-01 Jason Williamson
1999-00 Kori Davison
1998-99 Lennie Rampone
1997-98 Adam Stewart
1996-97 Vic Sharma
1995-96 Jeff Cheeseman

Former Viper Tryout Halikas Traded To Coquitlam:

Former Vernon Viper tryout forward, Jesse Halikas (91) has been traded back to the BCHL as the AJHL Brooks Bandits traded Halikas to the BCHL Coquitlam Express for the CHA rights of Lane Menage.

Halikas who was released by the Vernon Vipers late last year in training camp, landed in Alberni Valley and made the Bulldogs roster, before being traded to the AJHL Lloydminster Bobcats on December 1st 2009. Halikas who is from Derby, Vermont was being scouted by the Vipers the last two seasons. This was the second straight year Halikas was cut by Vernon.

Former Viper Tryout Aime Join's Queen's University:

Former Vernon Viper goaltender, David Aime will attend Queen's University this coming season. After playing with the WHL Prince Albert Raiders Aime landed a tryout with the BCHL's Vernon Vipers (2007-08). With three goaltenders already in Vernon, Aime practised with the Vipers for a week before heading off and joining the BCHL's Alberni Valley Bulldogs.

This is posted on Gregg Drinnan's Blog:

G David Aime (Prince Albert, Red Deer, 2005-08) will attend Queen’s University and play for the Golden Gaels. They play out of Kingston, Ont. Aime played the last two seasons for the MJHL’s OCN Blizzard.

Update On Former Viper Kyle St. Denis:

This is posted on the Regan Bartel's Kelowna Rockets Blog:

Here's an update on Kyle St Denis. St. Denis, like any other veteran, has an open invitation to Kelowna Rockets training camp this fall. St. Denis will battle for one of three overage spots along with Tyler Matheson, Evan Bloodoff and Geordie Wudrick. It's up to St. Denis to make sure he is medically cleared to play by doctors - outside of the Rockets personnel - after spending the majority of last season on the sidelines with concussion like symptoms. The Rockets would love nothing more than to have the 20 year-old in the lineup this season but it's St. Denis - with the help of specialized doctors - that have the final say on if he is healthy enough to play. Right now, St. Denis is symptom free.

Twins In Training:

This is posted on the Edmonton Oilers website:

Twins in training

Kellen & Connor Jones bring sibling rivalry & support to Development Camp

Thursday, 08.07.2010 / 6:14 PM / Development Camp
By Jen Sharpe edmontonoilers.com

Put a group of elite athletes together and you're going to feel the competition, friendly or otherwise. Although the 27 players attending Oilers Development Camp this week aren't yet battling for roster spots, it's clear that the on-ice battles in drills and scrimmages are spirited.

For camp invitees Kellen and Connor Jones, the competition goes a little deeper than who can clear the goal-line fastest.

The Joneses are identical twins and for the past two years have played with the BCHL's Vernon Vipers. Their hockey resumes were nearly identical up until June 26, when Kellen was selected by the Oilers in the seventh round of the NHL Entry Draft. Connor was not drafted.

The situation could have tainted the twins' brotherly love, but both players insist that their bond remains strong.

"First thing I thought about, I was just really happy for him," Connor said about hearing his brother was drafted. "He deserves everything -- all his rewards and everything that's happened so far -- so I was just real proud of him and real happy for him."

The support stretches onto the ice as well. Despite being placed on opposite teams for Thursday's scrimmage, Connor had trouble seeing his bro as the enemy -- part of the time, anyway.

"I think I hit three guys out there and I think it was the same guy. I made sure I finished my checks on him," Connor said with a grin. "But I messed up one time. I fed him a perfect pass but he was on a different team so it didn't work out too well."

"It's pretty funny," Kellen added. "I kind of know what he's doing every time. But it's lots of fun. I love playing against him as well as with him."

Although they don't always jive on the ice, the Joneses agree that this week's camp was a positive experience.

"It's a dream come true to be in an NHL dressing room," Kellen explained. "Skating with guys like (Jordan) Eberle and (Taylor) Hall, seeing those guys work, it's pretty cool being around them. Everything from the facilities to the coaches, it's pretty awesome. It's been a great experience so far and it's been lots of fun."

It's pretty funny. I kind of know what he's doing every time. But it's lots of fun. I love playing against him as well as with him. - Kellen Jones, about playing with twin brother Connor"We're trying to learn everything," Connor added. "We've never really been around guys like this before, Simon Bennett (Oilers Strength & Conditioning Coach) and stuff like that. We're learning lots of stuff from those guys."

Following Thursday's on-ice session, the twins were anticipating a turn at bat and in the field at Edmonton Capitals batting practice with the rest of the prospects. As expected, sibling rivalry transcends the sport of hockey.

"He's a better pitcher and I'd have to say I'm a better hitter," Kellen insisted.

"He's a pretty good hitter, but I think I could get him," Connor countered. "I know exactly where to put it so he doesn't hit it, so I think I can get him."

After a few hours on the ball diamond, the twins return to the ice Friday for the final day of Development Camp.


Connor & Kellen Jones talk about development camp and sharing the ice,

http://oilers.nhl.tv/team/console.jsp?catid=4&id=73678

Connor & Kellen Jones talk with Jen Sharpe,

http://oilers.nhl.com/club/podcastplayer.htm?pid=98&iid=23771

BCHL Trades From The Month's Of May & June:

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

27-May-10 The Merritt Centennials Hockey Club transfer the playing rights of Colton Sobchak (F)(90) to the Alberni Valley Bulldogs Hockey Club in exchange for future considerations.

14-May-10 The Powell River Kings Hockey Club acquires the playing rights of Chris Williams from the Hamilton Red Wings Hockey Club of the OJHL in exchange for future considerations.

13-May-10 The Coquitlam Express Hockey Club acquires the playing rights of Steve Axford (91) from the Camrose Kodiaks Hockey Club of the AJHL. This completes the Jan 10, 2010 transfer of Luke Challier and Lane Menage from Burnaby (Coquitlam) to Camrose.

12-May-10 The Victoria Grizzlies Hockey Club transfers the playing rights of Derek Bacon (91) to the St. Albert Steel Hockey Club of the AJHL in exchange for the playing rights of Mitch Labreche (90) and future considerations.

02-Jun-10 The Coquitlam Express Hockey Club transfers the playing rights of Brodie Jamieson (92)(F) to the Surrey Eagles Hockey Club in exchange for the playing rights of Jason Grecica (90)(F).

03-Jun-10 The Salmon Arm Silverbacks Hockey Club acquire the playing rights of Kris Moore of the Camrose Kodiaks Hockey Club of the AJHL in exchange for future considerations. This player transfer also completes the player compensation due the Silverbacks from the Matt Wray transfer from Salmon Arm to the Kodiaks made during the 2009-10 season.

07-Jun-10 The Prince George Spruce Kings Hockey Club transfers the playing rights of Jonathan Gibson (90)(F) to the Hamilton Red Wings Hockey Club of the OJHL in exchange for future considerations.

09-Jun-10 The Trail Smoke Eaters Hockey Club transfers the playing rights of Matt Wilkens, Mitch Kaufmann and Darnell Dyck to the Brooks Bandits Hockey Club of the AJHL in exchange for the playing rights of Steve Dobbin and Cullen Bradshaw.

09-Jun-10 The Quesnel Millionaires Hockey Club acquires the playing rights of Cody Slackaruk from the Grande Prairie Storm Hockey Club of the AJHL. This concludes the August 14th, 2009 trade between the two clubs.

13-Jun-10 The Quesnel Millionaires Hockey Club acquire the CJHL playing rights of Mike Zgraggen from the Brooks Bandits Hockey Club of the AJHL. This completes the conditions of the January 4th, 2010 agreement between the two clubs.

15-Jun-10 The Surrey Eagles Hockey Club acquire the playing rights of Matt Mazzarolo (90)(D) from the Merritt Centennials Hockey Club for future considerations.

18-Jun-10 The Westside Warriors Hockey Club transfers the playing rights of Cole Wilson to the Camrose Kodiaks Hockey Club of the AJHL in exchange for the playing rights of Tom Kroshus.

21-Jun-10 The Coquitlam Express Hockey Club acquires the playing rights of Matt Hutchinson from the OCN Blizzard Hockey Club of the MJHL in exchange for future considerations.

Robinson Throws First Pitch:

This is posted on the Vipers website:

Robinson throws first pitch

by viper staff Added 2010-07-07

Dave Robinson was joined by Rob Short, Bryce Kakoske and Jason Williamson for the first pitch at Funtastic. The Vipers joined fellow Vernon celebrities for the first game of the weekend.

BC Hockey Rule Change Okays AP Status For Okanagan HA Midget Athletes:

BC Hockey rule change okays AP status for Okanagan HA Midget athletes

Monday, July 5, 2010 - Submitted by Okanagan Hockey Academy

The Okanagan Hockey Academy (OHA) announced today that players in the academy's Midget program are now eligible to AP (affiliate player) with Junior A and Junior B teams. BC Hockey approved OHA’s request to have their 15, 16 and 17-year old players from within their Midget program be eligible to AP with Junior B and Junior A teams.

“This is a major step forward for us and for our players,” said Andy Oakes. “With this development, we will now have the ability to evaluate our top Midget players at a higher level, which is something we haven’t been able to do in the past.”

The new rule, which applies to the BC resident players in the program only, will take effect for the beginning of the 2010-2011 season.

Bigos & Jones Twins Head To Oilers Camp:

Former Vernon Vipers defenseman Kyle Bigos & forwards Connor & Kellen Jones opened up camp today with the Edmonton Oilers. The Oilers will be hosting their 2010 Development Camp from July 6-9, 2010.

Clareview Arena will host the Oilers top prospects, with 28 players reporting to camp. All off-ice workouts will take place at Rexall Place and a night out at the ball park will be on Thursday, July 8 as the prospects will attend the Edmonton Capitals vs. Tijuana Cimarrones game at Telus Field.

Here's a list of the Oilers roster and camp schedule

http://oilers.nhl.com/club/news.htm?id=533688&navid=DLEDMhome

Curtis Gedig Fulfills His Promise:

This is on the Vipers website:

Curtis Gedig fulfills his promise

by viper staff Added 2010-07-06

On November 25, the Vipers’ big trade of the year sent two fine young players, Nick Amies and Drew George, to Cowichan Valley for New Jersey draft choice, Curtis Gedig. Heavy expectations were placed on Gedig, who was just two months past his 18th birthday.

In his previous experiences in the league, he had been assigned a variety of roles. He says, “When I was 16, in Merritt, they played me in all situations. The next year in Cowichan, they wanted me to be more of a steady defensive player on a pretty good team. Earlier this year in Cowichan, I was supposed to be their go-to guy. Then, when I got to Vernon I was told to play physically, to take the body.”

He had some defensive lapses as he adjusted to his new role, but he got stronger as the season progressed. He started to deliver crunching body checks and he eliminated defensive zone miscues as the playoffs went deeper.

In the biggest series of the year, he was at his best in the RBC Cup, arguably the Vipers’ best overall defenceman among a group who played very well. La Ronge’s Dustin Stevenson, who was signed to a pro contract by the Washington capitals just before the tournament, got the attention, but Curtis was one of the top D-men at the tournament and overall had more of an impact than Stevenson.

Discussing his physical side, he says “I was told to use the body more, and I tried to make some big hits, especially when guys had their heads down. I’d watch their eyes and then decide when to step up. I learned that skating agility is a big part of hitting. You’re going backward and then suddenly step into a guy. You know, I’d been a little reluctant, I didn’t want to miss a check and get caught, but it’s easier than I thought.”

He says he’s learned a lot from his Viper coaches: “Ferns and Willie have taught me a lot of techniques and little tricks. Ferns is awesome. He knows the game so well. I understand now that you have to play strong defensively if you want to win championships. It’s hard work, mostly, but that work becomes all fun when you’re winning.”

He chuckles when asked about the “immaculate deception” goal that sunk the Oakville Blades at the RBC tournament. Actually, it was his second goal of the game – an earlier goal had been credited to Sahir Gill, but the puck bounced off an Oakville skate.

Here’s how he saw the crazy bounce that eventually was the game winner versus Oakville: “I was just dumping it in. It hit the stanchion along the glass and took a funny bounce. The goalie was trying to find it against the dark background. He was looking in the corner, I think, and just lost it, and it went five-hole. I lost it too, and then saw it heading for the net and I remember thinking, wouldn’t it be crazy if this goes in. It was almost embarrassing to score like that, but it turned out that we needed the goal.”

The smooth-skating resident of West Kelowna was drafted by the New Jersey Devils at age 17. He says, “They’re just letting me play and develop. They’re happy with me going to college.”

That college is Ohio State, where he will enrol this fall. He’s not sure what he’ll study there. He admits, “Number 1, I’m going there for the hockey. I figure that college is a good place to develop at this stage.”

He does have some regrets leaving Vernon, though. In particular, he’ll miss his defence partner, Garrett Noonan. “Noons is a great defensive player and one of my best friends. When they put us together, we just started to click. He works really hard and has good instincts. I really trust him on the ice.”

Another Viper he especially likes and trusts is Graeme Gordon. “We played together in Merritt, and now we’re on the top of the heap. He’s a terrific goalie and a great guy. I wish he could come to the Buckeyes.”

Former Viper Dorais Wins Gold At The 2010 World Ball Hockey Championships:

This is posted on the Alberni Valley Bulldogs website:

Dorais Wins Gold

Monday, June 28, 2010 - Submitted by Alberni Valley Bulldogs

Alberni Valley Bulldogs forward Trent Dorais has helped Team Canada win the gold medal at the World Junior Ball Hockey Championships in Villach, Austria. Team Canada dominated the tournament with an undefeated record and outscrored the Czech Republic team 5-0 in the final game. The Under 20 Championships had teams from Austria, Slovakia, Germany, Czech Republic and the U.S.A.

Happy Canada Day!