(Game Preview) Vernon @ Westside:

Vernon (2-0-0-0) @ Westside (3-0-0-0)

Tonight is the 3rd meeting of the season between these two teams but the first in regular season play after the Vernon Vipers defeated the Westside Warriors twice in overtime during the pre-season. Vernon ended the Warriors season in six games last year in the Interior Semi-Finals. The Warriors started the 50th BCHL regular season with three straight away from home, Westside now 3-0 faces the defending BCHL Champion Vernon Vipers in their home opener. The Vipers started the season 2-0 after back to back wins over Salmon Arm and finish up a mini two game road trip tonight with a visit to Royal Le Page Place. You can listen to tonight’s game live with Todd Miller and Don Klepp starting with the pre-game show at 6:45pm on 107.5 Kiss FM

Last Game Played:

Saturday, September 24th Vernon defeated Salmon Arm 5-4 (Overtime)
Wednesday, September 28th Westside defeated Salmon Arm 3-2

Next Game:

Saturday, October 1st Prince George @ Vernon
Saturday, October 1st Westside @ Merritt

Since the Warriors moved to Westside in 2006-07 Vernon is 3-1 vs. Westside during exibition action

Since the Warriors moved to Westside in 2006-07 Vernon is 14-12-2-3 vs. Westside during the regular season

Since the Warriors moved to Westside in 2006-07 Westside has outscored Vernon 88-87 during the regular season

Since the Warriors moved to Westside in 2006-07 Vernon is 6-6-1-2 at home vs. Westside during the regular season

Since the Warriors moved to Westside in 2006-07 Vernon is 8-6-1-1 in Westside during the regular season

Since the 2008-09 season the Vipers are 6-2-1-1 in their last ten games vs. the Warriors on home ice during the regular season

Since the 2008-09 season the Vipers are 7-2-0-1 in their last ten games vs. the Warriors at Royal Le Page Place during the regular season

The Vernon Lakers changed their name to the Vernon Vipers to start the 1995-96 season. Here’s a look at the Vipers all-time regular season record

Games Played: 962
Wins: 620
Losses: 245
Ties: 15
Overtime Losses: 84

For more stats & former Vernon Junior Hockey Team rosters & lineups please visit Paul’s Vernon Junior Hockey History website,

http://members.shaw.ca/vernonfranchise/index.html

Lets take a look at the Vernon Vipers:

Games Played: 2
Wins: 2
Losses: 0
Ties: 0
Overtime Losses: 0
Home Record: 1-0-0-0
Road Record: 1-0-0-0
Goals For: 10
Goals Against: 5
Standings: 2nd Place

Vernon Vipers Returning Players:

Marcus Basara (93)
Brett Corkey (92)
Aaron Hadley (93)
John Knisley (92)
Patrick McGillis (91)
Max Mowat (93)
Darren Nowick (91)
Ryan Renz (93)
Colton Sparrow (93)
Michael Zalewski (92)
Kirby Halcrow (91)

Vernon Vipers Departing & traded players from last years team:

Dylan Walchuk (92)
David Robinson (90)
Bryce Kakoske (90)
Malcolm Lyles (90)
Trevor Fitzgerald (92)
Adam Thompson (90)
Steven Weinstein (90)
Kyle Murphy (90)
Dane Muench (92)
Philip Patenaude (91)
Zach McPhee (93)
Blake Voth (91)

Vernons Home record vs. Westside last season:

2-0-1-0

Vernons Road record vs. Westside last season:

2-0-0-1

Vernons Powerplay vs. Westside last season:

8-33

Vernons scoring leaders vs. Westside last season:

Dylan Walchuk (4-5-8)
Michael Zalewski (3-5-8)
Adam Thompson (2-6-8)
Bryce Kakoske (4-2-6)
Steven Weinstein (1-5-6)
Kyle Murphy (1-4-5)
Patrick McGillis (2-3-5)
David Robinson (2-2-4)
Brett Corkey (0-4-4)
John Knisley (0-3-3)
Darren Nowick (2-1-3)
Malcolm Lyles (1-2-3)
Aaron Hadley (1-1-2)
Marcus Basara (1-1-2)

Blake Voth (2-1-1 Record)
Kirby Halcrow (2-0 Record)

Let's take a look at the trades the Vipers have made so far this season.

27-Jun-11 The Vernon Vipers Hockey Club acquires the CJHL playing rights of Luke Juha (93)(D) from the Burlington Cougars Hockey Club of the OJHL in exchange for future considerations.

02-Aug-11 The Vernon Vipers Hockey Club transfers the playing rights of Dane Muench (92)(F), Phillip Patenaude (91)(D) and future considerations to the Kindersley Klippers Hockey Club in exchange for the playing rights of Jarryd Ten Vannholt and Justin Elliot.

19-Sep-11 The Vernon Vipers Hockey Club transfers the playing rights of Jarryd Ten Vaanholt (91)(F) to the Victoria Grizzles Hockey Club in exchange for future considerations.

Lets take a look at the Westside Warriors:

Games Played: 3
Wins: 3
Losses: 0
Ties: 0
Overtime Losses: 0
Home Record: 0-0-0-0
Road Record: 3-0-0-0
Goals For: 15
Goals Against: 6
Standings: 1st Place

Westside Warriors Returning Players:

Izaak Berglund (91)
Travis Blanleil (94)
Max French (92)
Shawn Hochhausen (92)
Michael King (93)
Tyler Krause (91)
Peter MacIntosh (91)
Brett Mckinnon (92)
Dru Morrison (92)
Brett Mulcahy (93)
Brayden Sherbinin (93)

Former Vernon Lakers forward, Rylan Ferster is the new head coach-gm of the Warriors after coming over this summer from the KIJHL Revelestoke Grizzlies.

Westside Warriors Departing & traded players from last years team:

Alex Grieve (90)
Kyle Singleton (90)
Tyler Brickler (91)
Grayson Downing (92)
Tom Kroshus (92)
Quinn Gould (90)
Tyler French (90)
Matthew Maher (90)
Matt Cronin (92)
Stefan Nicholishen (93)
Kevin Boyle (92)
Cole Holowenko (93)

Westsides Home record vs. Vernon last season:

1-1-0-1

Westsides Road record vs. Vernon last season:

0-2-1

Westsides Powerplay vs. Vernon last season:

6-24

Westsides scoring leaders vs. Vernon last season:

Matthew Maher (1-5-6)
Alex Grieve (2-2-4)
Kyle Singleton (2-2-4)
Tom Kroshus (2-2-4)
Tyler Brickler (0-4-4)
Brayden Sherbinin (2-1-3)
Quinn Gould (2-1-3)
Tyler Krause (1-2-3)
Grayson Downing (1-2-3)
Max French (1-1-2)
Brett Mckinnon (2-0-2)
Michael King (0-1-1)
Brett Mulcahy (0-1-1)
Matt Cronin (0-1-1)
Shawn Hochhausen (1-0-1)
Peter MacIntosh (0-1-1)
Stefan Nicholishen (0-1-1)
Tyler French (0-1-1)

Kevin Boyle (0-2-1 Record)
Cole Holowenko (1-1 Record)

Let's take a look at the trades the Warriors have made this season.

02-Aug-11 The Surrey Eagles Hockey Club transfers the playing rights of Richard Vanderhoek (91)(F) to the Westside Warriors Hockey Club in exchange for the playing rights of Matt Cronin (92)(D).

05-Aug-11 The Westside Warriors Hockey Club transfers the playing rights of Stefan Nicholishen (93)(F) to the Salmon Arm Silverbacks Hockey Club in exchange for the playing rights of Dustin Cave (94)(D).

For more on the Westside Warriors and tonights game, visit Jon Zacks new Westside Warriors blog (The Generals Report), http://westsidewarriorsblog.wordpress.com/

Here’s a look at last years season series between these two teams:

Friday, October 8th @ Westside: Vernon wins 4-1

SCORING SUMMARY

PERIOD 1

Vernon Vipers at 8:55 - Bryce Kakoske from Kyle Murphy and Elliot Richardson
Westside Warriors at 17:55 - Matthew Maher (unassisted)

PERIOD 2

Vernon Vipers at 4:25 - Aaron Hadley from Michael Zalewski
Vernon Vipers at 16:18 (PP) - Kyle Murphy from Michael Zalewski

PERIOD 3

Vernon Vipers at 16:37 - David Robinson from Bryce Kakoske and Kyle Murphy

Shots were even 25-25. Blake Voth made 24 saves in the win, while Cam Gorchynski made 21 saves in the loss.

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxscores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=840270&link=bchl

Saturday, October 9th @ Vernon: Vernon wins 6-4

SCORING SUMMARY

PERIOD 1

Vernon Vipers at 1:58 (PP) - Adam Thompson from Steven Weinstein and Dylan Walchuk
Westside Warriors at 17:44 - Brayden Sherbinin from Tyler Krause
Vernon Vipers at 18:43 - Bryce Kakoske from Elliot Richardson and Malcolm Lyles

PERIOD 2

Vernon Vipers at 1:16 - Bryce Kakoske from Patrick McGillis and Adam Thompson
Westside Warriors at 3:04 - Brayden Sherbinin (unassisted)
Vernon Vipers at 19:27 (SH) - Patrick McGillis from Dylan Walchuk and Adam Thompson

PERIOD 3

Westside Warriors at 7:33 (PP) - Alex Grieve from Grayson Downing and Matthew Maher
Westside Warriors at 12:13 - Quinn Gould from Kyle Singleton and Alex Grieve
Vernon Vipers at 12:48 - Patrick McGillis from Dylan Walchuk and Darren Nowick
Vernon Vipers at 17:58 - Michael Zalewski from Kyle Murphy and David Robinson

Vernon outshot Westside 30-24. Blake Voth made 20 saves for the win, while Kevin Boyle made 24 saves in the loss.

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxscores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=840329&link=bchl

Friday, December 3rd @ Vernon: Game tied 2-2

SCORING SUMMARY

PERIOD 1

Vernon Vipers at 14:19 (PP) - Dylan Walchuk from Steven Weinstein

PERIOD 2

Westside Warriors at 5:29 (PP) - Shawn Hochhausen from Tom Kroshus and Michael King
Westside Warriors at 15:36 (PP) - Grayson Downing from Matthew Maher and Tyler Brickler

PERIOD 3

Vernon Vipers at 15:42 - Dylan Walchuk from Michael Zalewski

Vernon outshot Westside 38-25. Blake Voth made 23 saves, while Kevin Boyle made 36 saves in the tie.

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxscores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=840330&link=bchl

Saturday, December 4th @ Westside: Vernon wins 3-2 in overtime

SCORING SUMMARY

PERIOD 1

Vernon Vipers at 11:03 (PP) - Dylan Walchuk from Michael Zalewski and Brett Corkey

PERIOD 2

Westside Warriors at 8:41 - Brett Mckinnon from Matt Cronin and Brett Mulcahy
Westside Warriors at 12:22 (PP) - Max French from Quinn Gould and Tom Kroshus

PERIOD 3

Vernon Vipers at 13:51 (PP) - Bryce Kakoske from Steven Weinstein and Adam Thompson

OVERTIME PERIOD 1

Vernon Vipers at 2:52 - David Robinson from Adam Thompson and Bryce Kakoske

Vernon outshot Westside 39-23. Kirby Halcrow made his Viper debut making 21 saves picking up the win, while Kevin Boyle made 36 saves in the loss.

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxscores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=840271&link=bchl

Friday, January 7th @ Westside: Westside wins 4-3 in double overtime

SCORING SUMMARY

PERIOD 1

Vernon Vipers at 4:35 - Steven Weinstein from Malcolm Lyles and Marcus Basara
Vernon Vipers at 9:43 (PP) - Michael Zalewski from Dylan Walchuk and John Knisley
Westside Warriors at 16:04 (PP) - Quinn Gould from Max French and Tyler Brickler

PERIOD 2

Westside Warriors at 1:29 - Alex Grieve from Brayden Sherbinin and Kyle Singleton
Westside Warriors at 2:19 - Brett Mckinnon from Peter MacIntosh and Alex Grieve
Vernon Vipers at 4:45 - Michael Zalewski from John Knisley

PERIOD 3

No Scoring

OVERTIME PERIOD 2

Westside Warriors at 1:16 - Kyle Singleton from Matthew Maher

Westside outshot Vernon 35-33. Colo Holowenko made 30 saves in his first career victory over Vernon, while Blake Voth made 31 saves in the loss.

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxscores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=840272&link=bchl

Saturday, January 8th @ Vernon: Vernon wins 6-4

SCORING SUMMARY

PERIOD 1

Vernon Vipers at 5:25 (PP) - Darren Nowick from Brett Corkey and Adam Thompson
Vernon Vipers at 5:49 - Adam Thompson from Patrick McGillis and Aaron Hadley
Vernon Vipers at 6:39 - Dylan Walchuk from Michael Zalewski and John Knisley
Vernon Vipers at 10:08 (PP) - Darren Nowick from Patrick McGillis and David Robinson
Vernon Vipers at 16:39 - Marcus Basara from Kyle Murphy and Brett Corkey

PERIOD 2

Westside Warriors at 2:00 - Tyler Krause from Matthew Maher and Grayson Downing
Westside Warriors at 6:31 (PP) - Tom Kroshus from Tyler Brickler and Stefan Nicholishen
Westside Warriors at 7:54 (PP) - Tom Kroshus from Tyler Krause and Matthew Maher
Vernon Vipers at 9:00 - Malcolm Lyles from Steven Weinstein and Dylan Walchuk
Westside Warriors at 17:41 - Kyle Singleton from Tyler Brickler and Tyler French

PERIOD 3

No Scoring

Vernon outshot Westside 28-24. Kevin Boyle who started made 3 saves, before Cole Holowenko made 19 saves taking the loss, while Kirby Halcrow made 20 saves in the win.

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxscores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=840331

Here's a look at last years Interior Conference Semi-Finals matchup between these two teams.

Interior Conference Semi-Finals: Game 1: Tuesday, March 8th @ Vernon: Vernon wins 3-2

SCORING SUMMARY

PERIOD 1

No Scoring

PERIOD 2

Vernon Vipers at 2:00 - Marcus Basara from Brett Corkey
Vernon Vipers at 17:01 (PP) - Dane Muench from Patrick McGillis and Dylan Walchuk

PERIOD 3

Vernon Vipers at 6:02 - Colton Sparrow from Aaron Hadley and Trevor Fitzgerald
Westside Warriors at 7:17 - Tyler Krause from Tom Kroshus and Peter MacIntosh
Westside Warriors at 12:10 - Matthew Maher from Travis Blanleil Here's a look at both teams playoff rosters & stats:

Vernon outshoots Westside 39-20. Blake Voth made 18 saves in the win, while Kevin Boyle made 36 saves in the loss.

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxscores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=932335&link=bchl

Interior Conference Semi-Finals: Game 2: Wednesday, March 9th @ Vernon: Westside wins 5-2

SCORING SUMMARY

PERIOD 1

Westside Warriors at 11:13 - Tyler Krause from Tyler French and Travis Blanleil
Vernon Vipers at 14:01 - Dylan Walchuk from Bryce Kakoske and Patrick McGillis
Westside Warriors at 16:03 (PP) - Quinn Gould from Tyler Brickler and Matthew Maher

PERIOD 2

Westside Warriors at 0:33 - Alex Grieve from Tyler Krause and Travis Blanleil
Vernon Vipers at 4:55 (PP) - Malcolm Lyles from David Robinson

PERIOD 3

Westside Warriors at 0:59 - Tyler Brickler from Quinn Gould
Westside Warriors at 19:12 (EN) - Tyler Krause (unassisted)

Vernon outshot Westside 40-24. Kevin Boyle made 38 saves in the win, while Blake Voth made 5 saves in the loss.

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxscores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=932339&link=bchl

Interior Conference Semi-Finals: Game 3: Friday, March 11th @ Westside: Westside wins 4-2

SCORING SUMMARY

PERIOD 1

Westside Warriors at 2:42 - Tyler Brickler from Tyler French

PERIOD 2

Westside Warriors at 1:24 (SH) - Alex Grieve from Kyle Singleton
Vernon Vipers at 8:19 - Colton Sparrow from Aaron Hadley and Adam Thompson
Vernon Vipers at 16:06 - Adam Thompson from Colton Sparrow

PERIOD 3

Westside Warriors at 17:03 (PP) - Quinn Gould from Kyle Singleton and Tyler Brickler
Westside Warriors at 19:09 (EN) - Alex Grieve (unassisted)

Vernon outshot Westside 41-23. Kevin Boyle made 39 saves in the win, while Kirby Halcrow made 20 saves in the loss.

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxscores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=932345&link=bchl

Interior Conference Semi-Finals Game 4 @ Westside: Vernon wins 5-2

SCORING SUMMARY

PERIOD 1

Vernon Vipers at 2:15 - Colton Sparrow from Brett Corkey and Trevor Fitzgerald

PERIOD 2

Vernon Vipers at 2:14 - Aaron Hadley from Colton Sparrow and Brett Corkey
Vernon Vipers at 9:00 - Patrick McGillis from Kirby Halcrow
Westside Warriors at 9:49 (PP) - Quinn Gould from Alex Grieve and Tyler Brickler
Vernon Vipers at 17:38 - Malcolm Lyles from Patrick McGillis and Aaron Hadley

PERIOD 3

Westside Warriors at 7:57 (PP) - Matthew Maher from Tyler Brickler and Alex Grieve
Vernon Vipers at 10:24 (PP) - Bryce Kakoske from Kyle Murphy and David Robinson

Vernon outshot Westside 35-22. Kirby Halcrow made 20 saves in the win, while Kevin Boyle made 30 saves in the loss.

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxscores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=932348&link=bchl

Interior Conference Semi-Finals Game 5 @ Vernon: Vernon wins 7-1

SCORING SUMMARY

PERIOD 1

No Scoring

PERIOD 2

Vernon Vipers at 8:30 - David Robinson from Adam Thompson and Bryce Kakoske
Vernon Vipers at 13:10 - Michael Zalewski from Darren Nowick and John Knisley
Vernon Vipers at 14:23 (PP) - Patrick McGillis from Marcus Basara and Dylan Walchuk
Vernon Vipers at 17:50 - Darren Nowick from Max Mowat

PERIOD 3

Vernon Vipers at 1:53 - Patrick McGillis (unassisted)
Vernon Vipers at 7:15 (PP) - Adam Thompson from Bryce Kakoske
Vernon Vipers at 11:19 (PP) - Dylan Walchuk from Malcolm Lyles and Marcus Basara
Westside Warriors at 19:02 (PP) - Tyler French from Brett Mckinnon and Stefan Nicholishen

Vernon outshot Westside 35-19. Kirby Halcrow made 18 saves for the win, while Kevin Boyle made 16 saves in the loss after leaving in the 2nd period due to an injury.

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxscores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=932353&link=bchl

Interior Conference Semi-Finals Game 6 @ Westside: Vernon wins 2-1 and wins the series in six games

SCORING SUMMARY

PERIOD 1

Vernon Vipers at 5:05 (PP) - Marcus Basara from Dylan Walchuk and Michael Zalewski

PERIOD 2

Westside Warriors at 6:16 - Max French (unassisted)

PERIOD 3

Vernon Vipers at 12:41 (SH) - John Knisley (unassisted)

Westside outshot Vernon 25-17. Kirby Halcrow made 24 saves in the win, while Cole Holowenko made 15 saves in the loss.

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxscores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=932356&link=bchl

Here's a look at both teams rosters:

Vernon:

Michael Zalewski (3-1-4)
Darren Nowick (2-2-4)
Marcus Basara (0-3-3)
John Knisley (1-1-2)
Patrick McGillis (1-1-2)
Marc Hetnik (0-2-2)
Colton Sparrow (1-0-1)
Brett Corkey (0-1-1)
Geoff Crisfield (0-1-1)
Aaron Hadley (0-1-1)
Jedd Soleway (1-0-1)
Adam Tambellini (1-0-1)
Alex Hagen (0-0-0)
Connor Hartley (0-0-0)
Turner Lawson (0-0-0)
Max Mowat (0-0-0)
Ryan Renz (0-0-0)
Riley Hunt (0-0-0)
Luke Juha (0-0-0)

Kirby Halcrow (2-0 Record, 2.42 GAA)
Danny Todosychuk (0-0 Record)

Westside:

Tyler Krause (3-2-5)
Connor Dempsey (3-2-5)
Seb Lloyd (1-2-3)
Peter MacIntosh (0-3-3)
Tyson Witala (1-1-2)
Michael King (0-2-2)
Brett Mckinnon (1-1-2)
Dru Morrison (1-1-2)
Travis Blanleil (1-0-1)
Brennan Clark (1-0-1)
Brayden Sherbinin (1-0-1)
Izaak Berglund (0-1-1)
Ben Betker (0-1-1)
Richard Vanderhoek (1-0-1)
Shawn Hochhausen (0-0-0)
Garrett Skrbich (0-0-0)
Mitchell Steinke (0-0-0)
Max French (0-0-0)

Steven Racine (3-0 Record, 2.00 GAA)
Brandon Lane (0-0 Record)

Undefeated Vipers And Warriors Battle In Westside:

This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:

Undefeated Vipers and Warriors battle in Westside

Published: September 30, 2011

The two hottest teams in the Interior Conference will tangle tonight when the Vernon Vipers visit the Westside Warriors at Royal LePage Place.

The Warriors improved to 3-0 and a share of first place in the B.C. Hockey League standings after their 3-2 comeback win over the Salmon Arm SilverBacks Wednesday night at the Sunwave Centre.

The Vipers, the only other undefeated team in the Interior at 2-0, are looking to build on a solid weekend sweep of the 0-2-0-1 ‘Backs. Vernon hosts the Prince George Spruce Kings Saturday night at Wesbild Centre.

The 1-1 Kings are getting an early offensive boost from the 18-year-old Fitzgerald triplets – Leo (3+1), Gerry (2+2) and Myles (2G) – who have combined for 11 points in their first two games. Former SilverBack Paul De Jersey and 17-year-old sniper Jujhar Khaira each have 2+2 for Prince George.

Wednesday night, the Warriors needed a third-period rally to brush back Salmon Arm. They used singles by Connor Dempsey, on the powerplay, and second star Brett McKinnon, who potted the winner with 30 seconds left in regulation to cap the comeback.

Salmon Arm keeper Kurt Williams garnered first-star honours with 45 saves.

In other Interior action Wednesday night, Chad Brears scored midway through the third period as the Merritt Centennials salvaged a 3-3 draw with the host Trail Smoke Eaters at Cominco Arena.

Clayton Chessa and Clint Romanchuk pegged the Smokies to an early lead before Brent Fletcher answered for the Cents at 12:41 of the first period.

Merritt’s Syvain Harper and Trail’s Adam Boytinck swapped singles in the second period.

The Cents are 1-1-1, the Smokies are 0-2-1.

In the lone Coastal tilt Wednesday night, first star Cohen Adair recorded a natural hat trick, including a pair of shorthanded goals, as the Powell River Kings grounded the host Cowichan Valley Capitals 5-3 at the Island Savings Centre.

With the Kings up 3-0, the Capitals hit the board with 20 seconds to play in the second period on a goal by Matthew Grant.

Matt Brown cut the lead to one at 5:22 of the second period, but Powell River’s Teagan Waugh, assisted by Adair, netted the eventual winner less than a minute later to help the Kings move atop the Coast at 3-0. The Caps are in second at 2-1.

SNAKE BITES: Penticton Vees’ captain Logan Johnston had his 20-game suspension upped to 25 following a recent appeal by the team to the BCHL disciplinary committee. Johnston received the suspension for cross-checking Cody Michelle of Coquitlam Express during a Sept. 17 exhibition game. Michelle is reported to have a broken jaw as a result of the incident and could be on the sidelines for two months.

Gladiators Re-Sign Former Vipers Defenceman Brookwell:

The ECHL Gwinnett Gladiators have re-signed former Vernon Vipers defenceman, Cody Brookwell. Brookwell was recruited by the Vipers but only played in four regular season games (2004-05) before being traded in early October of 2004 to the Williams Lake Timberwolves. Brookwell played two seasons in Williams Lake before playing the next four seasons at the University of Denver. In 48 games last year with the Gladiators Brookwell collected (2-5-7).

Cody Brookwell's Player Profile:

http://echl.com/stats/player.php?id=3143

This is posted on the Gladiators website:

Brookwell and Milo Return

Monday, August 29, 2011

The Gwinnett Gladiators have agreed to terms with forward Justin Milo and defenseman Cody Brookwell for the 2011-12 season.

Brookwell returns to Gwinnett after he earned seven points (two goals, five assists) in 48 games last season. He recorded his first professional goal on February 12, 2011 in a 6-2 win over the South Carolina Stingrays.

The Calgary, Alberta native skated four seasons with the University of Denver from 2006-2010 before he turned pro and joined Gwinnett last year. With the Pioneers, Brookwell recorded 12 points (three goals, nine assists) in 184 career collegiate games.

Milo finished his first professional season in 2010-10 with the Gladiators. He tallied 13 points (four goals, nine assists) in 36 games with Gwinnett. He also appeared in 12 games with South Carolina and two games with Alaska before he was signed by the Gladiators. Milo earned 18 points (6 goals, 12 assists) in 50 ECHL games last season.

The Edina, Minnesota, native played at the University of Vermont from 2008-2010. He began his collegiate career with Cornell University during the 2006-07 season before he transferred to Vermont. He averaged over a point a game Catamounts during the 2009-10 season and earned 21 points (nine goals, 12 assists) in 20 games.

He recorded 51 points (24 goals, 27 assists) in 83 career collegiate games from 2006-20010 with Vermont and Cornell.

The Gladiators are the ECHL Affiliate of the Phoenix Coyotes of the National Hockey League and are members of the ECHL, the Premier "AA" Hockey League and play all home games at the 11,355-seat Arena at Gwinnett Center, located just off I-85 on Sugarloaf Parkway in Duluth.

LIVE Online Chat With Former Vipers Head Coach-GM Mark Ferner:

Join Everett Silvertips Head Coach Mark Ferner for a LIVE online chat session through the Seattle Times website this afternoon. Ferner spent the last four seasons with the Vipers (2007-2010) before joining the Silvertips this summer.

This is posted on the Silvertips website:

Sep 27, 2011

LIVE Online Chat with Coach Ferner

Join Everett Silvertips Head Coach Mark Ferner for a LIVE online chat session through the Seattle Times website this Wednesday afternoon, September 28, from Noon to 1:00 pm. Coach Ferner and Seattle Thunderbirds Head Coach Steve Konowalchuk will both be taking questions from the fans, so don't miss this opportunity to chat directly with the coach of your favorite local hockey team!

CLICK HERE http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/hockey/2016334194_webwhlcoacheschat27.html to join the online chat, which is hosted and mediated by the Seattle Times as part of their weekly series of live chats with local sports newsmakers.

Log on to submit your questions for Mark Ferner, who has now begun his first season as Head Coach of the Silvertips after replacing Craig Hartsburg in July. Want to know more about his background, coaching philosophy or expections for this year's club? Find out for yourself Wednesday afternoon on the Seattle Times live online chat!

After the chat with Coach Ferner, don't the forget that the Silvertips are in Vancouver Wednesday night to take on the Giants at 7:00 pm! Listen live on Fox Sports 1380 AM or watch the game online with WHL Live.

Nowick Nets BCHL Honour:

This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:

Nowick nets BCHL honour

Published: September 28, 2011

First goal of the Vernon Vipers’ season, first star on back-to-back nights and a share of first place in the B.C. Hockey League scoring race – it all adds up to Player of the Week honours for Darren Nowick.

The Long Beach, Calif. native, who is tied with a nest of players at four points after opening weekend, buried the overtime winner as the Vipers brushed back the host Salmon Arm SilverBacks 5-4 Saturday night at the Sunwave Centre.

Second-year Viper forward Marcus Basara tried a wraparound and missed, but the rebound went right to Nowick.

“Pucks are just bouncing the right way for him and he knows his game and he’s playing with confidence,” said Vipers’ head coach Jason Williamson.

Nowick centres a line with skilled wingers Mike Zalewski and John Knisley, which also happens to be Vernon’s first powerplay unit, and three of their top-four penalty killers.

“It’s the way they compete. He’s going to play a lot of minutes as our first-line centre. He’ll be the go-to guy,” said Williamson.

The threesome played as a line for the last half of the season last year.

And that built-in chemistry is making a big difference early.

“It helps a ton, just being close with one another and knowing how each other plays. We talk a lot out there,” said Zalewski, adding Nowick adds more to the team than just his scoring touch.

“Even if he’s not scoring he brings a lot of energy to the team and he’s great in his own end. It was great to see him get that start and player of the week.”

The Vipers jumped in front early when rookie Adam Tambellini converted the rebound off a Patrick McGillis shot on a powerplay, but it was the SilverBacks who controlled the first-period action.

Alex Gillies, a 16-year-old Vernon product, wheeled up the wall on a 2-on-1 and ripped a shot shortside on Kirby Halcrow (23 saves) for his first-ever BCHL goal in front of 1,178 fans at 3:46.

Singles by defencemen Klay Kachur and Sean Flanagan, both on point shots through traffic, gave the SilverBacks a 3-1 lead heading into the first intermission.

“We were pretty successful the night before (5-1 win over Salmon Arm Friday night at Wesbild Centre) and we got an early goal and thought it was going to be easy,” said Williamson.

“Two goals through screens on bad scrambles. We got caught running around in our dee zone and we had to step it up to come back and we did.”

Vernon continued to outshoot Salmon Arm in the second frame (and 46-27 overall), but some solid work by second star netminder Kurt Williams (42 saves) helped preserve the Gorillas’ lead until late in the period.

Rookie Jedd Soleway of Vernon pulled the Vipers within a goal when he crossed the blueline and unleashed a low rocket to the corner at 14:31, for his first BCHL snipe.

“He (Williams) just couldn’t get over to stop it. That’s something we’ve talked to Jedd about. He can rip it,” said Williamson.

Just 26 seconds later and the Vipers were even as Zalewski, who also had a four-point weekend, pick-pocketed a Salmon Arm defender in the slot, then turned and fired before Williams could get set.

Zalewski put Vernon in front with less than three minutes to play in the second when he rifled a powerplay one-timer cleverly set up by defenceman Marc Hetnik.

Third star Devin Muller, who earned the assist on Gillies’ goal, forced overtime when he cashed in the rebound from a Bryce Gervais shot midway through the third period.

SilverBacks’ coach Colin O’Hara inserted Adam Clark in net to finish the second period. Williams was back in the third.

“The second period was a pretty even affair but we went to sleep as a whole, burned a timeout and changed our goaltending,” said O’Hara. “We were able to get a five-on-three but didn’t score.”

Salmon Arm has lost 18-year-old defenceman Joel Kipp for up to three months. He was pushed into the boards by Vernon’s Alex Hagen Friday night (5-1 Vernon win) and taken to hospital with concussion concerns but turned out to have a ruptured spleen which was removed. Hagen was assessed a boarding minor penalty on the play.

“Joel was hit from behind, we feel,” said O’Hara. “And now he’s lost for 10 to 12 weeks.”

The Vipers had a clear edge in the special-teams battle for the weekend, going 4-10 on the power play while Salmon Arm was 0-11. O’Hara was also quick to credit Vernon’s goalie.

“Kirby Halcrow stood on his head – on Saturday night with the game tied 4-4, he came up with two saves back to back while he was doing snow angels in the crease to push the game to overtime.”

Vernon and the Westside Warriors are the only two Interior Conference teams to go 2-0 over the weekend. The two teams meet Friday night at Royal LePage Place.

The Vipers start a three-game homestand Saturday night against the Prince George Spruce Kings. Westside visits Wesbild Centre next Wednesday night.

The Cowichan Valley Capitals and Powell River Kings are the only undefeated teams on the coast.

Vernon’s Conor Barrie is the back-up goalie with the Surrey Eagles.

Riley Hunt - Viper Buzzsaw:

This is posted on Vernon Centrals website:

Editor’s Note: this article is part of a 10-part series about this year’s crop of new Vernon Viper players.

Riley Hunt - Viper Buzzsaw

By Don Klepp

Sep 21/2011

Riley Hunt. Photo: Don Klepp

He looks young because he is young – just 16. And at 5’5” and 155 pounds, he seems even younger. But don’t be fooled – he’s no pushover and he has a very mature attitude.

For example, consider his physical play. He’s not afraid of taking a hit or delivering a check in order to make a play. He says, “I’ve always been a physical, aggressive player but now that I’m up against bigger guys I can’t go for the big open ice hits. If I pick my spots though, especially against the wall, I can contribute some physical intensity.”

He’s very clear about the message sent by playing physically: “I’m not going to back down because I’m smaller and you’re not going to push me around. Obviously, I’m not going to intimidate anybody, but I’m going to get in there and dig for pucks.”

His father, Earl, says that Riley has always been fearless. Riley agrees: “One of the reasons I’m at this level at a young age is that I keep on going no matter how big or fast the other players are. I have a lot to learn about how and when to stick my nose in there, but Vernon’s a great place to learn the game.”

One of the keys to his survival and success is his speed. As he says, “Most smaller players have that speed and they have to take advantage of it. Luckily, the way the game is played now, speed is essential and I have a chance to play here because of my skating.”

He loves the Vipers’ up-tempo style: “It’s one of the reasons I came here and one of the things I admire about the Vipers. No matter who the Vipers play, or who’s on the ice, every Viper plays that style, hard on the forecheck and on the backcheck. I love it!”

He says he’s in the process of making several adjustments early in the season. His biggest adjustment, he says, will be the “60-game schedule and daily practices and going to school, too. You have to be ready all the time. Right now it feels a little chaotic, but that’s where the vets will help me learn how to be mentally and physically prepared all the time.”

“My goal right now,” he says, “is to give everything I have every day.”

Fortunately, he is by nature an energetic, upbeat person. He also seems to be able to pump up the energy level when he needs to perform. And he knows what he needs to do: “As a smaller guy at this level, I can’t just fit in. I have to stand out with intensity and speed. I love a good challenge and every shift this year will be a challenge.”

His goals for this season are straightforward. “I’m not going to focus on goals and assists. When you start doing that you lose track of your priorities. I just want to get better every day, help the team win, and keep up with my school work.”

Do you not agree that Riley Hunt is rather mature for a 16-year-old?

A Better Look At Former Viper Goaltender Andrew Hammond:

James V. Dowd of Inside College Hockey has a good write up on former Vernon Vipers goaltender, Andrew Hammond. Hammond who is entering his second season with Bowling Green University played two years in Vernon (2007-2009).

This was posted on the Inside College Hockey website:

August 26, 2011

INCH A-Z: Andrew Hammond

By James V. Dowd

ANDREW HAMMOND
Bowling Green
Jr. | G | Surrey, B.C.

Key Statistics: After splitting starts with then senior Nick Eno for the first half of last season, Hammond took over as the Falcons’ No. 1 goaltender in the second half of the year, starting 16 of the his team’s 21 games after their December break. On the year, Hammond, who compiled a 2.67 goals against average and a .915 save percentage, was the goaltender of record for six of Bowling Green’s 10 wins, including an unforgettable 44-save effort at Northern Michigan that propelled the Falcons to the second round of the CCHA playoffs.

What He Does: ­Coach Chris Bergeron points to Hammond’s maturity as the key to the goaltender’s success. The junior has developed excellent practice habits and that dedication has translated into on-ice success throughout his first two years at Bowling Green. Hammond is a proven winner at the junior level and that winning mentality is extremely valuable in keeping his teammates focused on the long run despite disappointing short-term results.

The Bigger Picture: Hammond is a top-notch goaltender, but his impact will be as important in future years as it is this season. It doesn’t seem that there’s a magic elixir that will turn the Falcons into contenders for conference titles and NCAA tournament bids next spring, but it seems safe to say that Bowling Green hockey is off of life support. The Falcons have been invited to join the WCHA with the other CCHA programs that were left behind by the Big Ten, the National College Hockey Conference, and Notre Dame and appear to have a healthy future ahead of them. Obviously, one key to that prophesy being realized will be more on-ice success. While Bergeron declined to put his goals for this season in terms of a number of wins or a place in the standings, he knows that his team has to improve in all facets of the game with special teams as a main focus, and Hammond will be a key part of that effort. He will help steady the defensive effort of one of the nation’s youngest teams and, as an example of how to do things right in practice and off the ice, he’ll help those young players establish the kind of habits that will take the Falcons up the standings over the next few years, even after he’s gone.

Bowling Green Coach Chris Bergeron on Hammond: “We were in a one-and-one situation to begin last year with Nick Eno starting Fridays and Andrew starting Saturdays. They knew that going into the year and that we would go with that until someone struggled or someone separated themselves as giving the team the best chance to win. For Andrew, it was more of the latter. We thought he gave the team the best chance to win. With that, he has created the expectation that he will pick up where he left off.”

Former Vipers Goaltender Voth Picks Up First Pre-Season Win With Lumberjacks:

Former Vernon Vipers goaltender, Blake Voth picked up his first pre-season victory as a member of the USHL Muskegon Lumberjacks. Voth and the Lumberjacks defeated the Chicago Steel Thursday In the USHL fall classic. Voth played the past two seasons with the Vipers (2009-2011) before being traded May, 26th 2011 to the SJHL Battlefords North Stars as part of the future considerations in the deal that sent Dane Muench to Vernon in January at the BCHL trade deadline. Voth went 46-13-3 in 64 regular season games with Vernon.

This was posted on the USHL website:

Voth, Lumberjacks drop Steel 4-1 in USHL Fall Classic tilt

September 22, 2011

Muskegon next faces defending Clark Cup champion Dubuque at 5 p.m. on Friday

Sioux City, Iowa – Blake Voth undoubtedly sent a message with his stalwart performance between the posts during the Jacks’ 4-1 win over the Chicago Steel Thursday morning.

The Muskegon Lumberjacks netminder from Herbert, Saskatchewan, stopped 24 of the 25 shots he faced and only allowed a goal on a redirect at the tail end of a lengthy 5-on-3 Steel power play during the Jacks’ first tilt of the United States Hockey League Fall Classic at the IBP Ice Center in Sioux City, Iowa.

The Jacks (2-1-0) got on the board just 3:23 into the first period when first-round pick and Richmond Hill, Ontario, native Ryan Lomberg twisted a wrister past Steel (0-5-1) goaltender Alex Sakellaropoulos from the edge of the left-side faceoff circle. Jordan Master picked up the assist and Lomberg earned his third assist of the exhibition slate when he and Travis Walsh factored on a power-play goal by Tyler Heinonen with 2:31 left in the opening frame.

Eden Prairie, Minn., native and Minnesota Wild draft pick Nick Seeler lit the lamp midway through the second period and fellow defenseman Mark Yanis followed suit on the power play about two minutes later. Phillip Marinaccio was able to redirect the puck past Voth with 5:20 left in regulation to spoil the shutout.

The Jacks went 2-for-6 on the power play and 9-for-10 on the penalty kill, including killing off fivef odd-man disadvantages in the first. Despite all the time on the kill in the first, the Jacks outshot the Steel 13-5 and also enjoyed the overall shot advantage, 39-25.

The Jacks’ second Fall Classic game will be against the Dubuque Fighting Saints at 5 p.m. (ET) Friday, and they will wrap up the preseason against Green Bay at 2 p.m. Saturday. The Jacks’ second and third games at the Fall Classic will be broadcast at http://www.fasthockey.com/

More about the Muskegon Lumberjacks: The Lumberjacks are proud members of the United States Hockey League, the nation’s only Tier I junior hockey league and the leading producer of NCAA players and National Hockey League draft picks in the United States. The USHL has produced more than 150 players currently under NHL contracts. The Lumberjacks’ organization prides itself on developing not just premier hockey talent, but also exceptional young men outside the arena of sports. For more information, visit http://www.muskegonlumberjacks.com/ 

Nowick Named Player Of The Week:

Nowick stars on opening weekend, takes first POW nod of the season

Monday, September 26, 2011 - Submitted by BCHL Media

Vernon Vipers forward Darren Nowick has been named the British Columbia Hockey League Player of the Week award for the Week for the week ending Sept. 25 the league announced Monday.

The Long Beach, Calif. native was a major factor in the Vipers' 2-0 start to the season as he scored Vernon's first goal of the season just 31 seconds into Friday's game and later added an assist. He followed that up another goal and an assist again on Saturday. Nowick was named 1st Star in both games and was tied for the league lead in scoring after the weekend.

Honourable mentions this week go to Cowichan Valley Capitals forward Steven Iacobellis (two games, 2G, 2A, two 3rd Stars), Prince George Spruce Kings forward Leo Fitzgerald (two games, 3G, 1A, 2nd Star) and Langley forward Mario Puskarich (two games, 3G, two 2nd Stars).

Darren Nowick Post-Game Interview:

Vernon Vipers colour commentator, Don Klepp interviews Vernon Vipers forward, Darren Nowick after the Vipers 5-1 victory Friday night, over the visiting Salmon Arm Silverbacks in the season opener. Nowick collected one goal and one assist, bening named first star.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RB9Whu3TCVU

Vernon Vipers 2011-12 Player Intro Video:

107.5 Kiss FM's, Rob Abramenko made the Vernon Vipers first video of the 2011-12 BCHL season. Here is a video that was showen at the Vipers home opener Friday night introducing the 2011-12 Vernon Vipers player profiles.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3ZdmaZexBzE

Vipers Win In OT:

This is posted on the Vipers website:

Vipers win in ot

by Don Klepp | Added 2011-09-25

Darren Nowick’s goal at 4.20 of the first overtime period decided a seesaw contest in Salmon Arm on Saturday.

Nowick was the game’s first star for the second straight game, but he had plenty of support from veteran linemates Mike Zalewski and John Knisley. The line has started the season the way they played in the Royal Bank Cup in May, looking dangerous on every shift.

However, they were upstaged by a spirited Silverback squad in the first period, as the ‘Backs jumped out to a 3-1 lead.

Viper rookie Adam Tambellini opened the scoring two minutes into the game when the Vipers took advantage of a Bennett Hambrook tripping penalty. Aaron Hadley started the play on the right wing and fed Patrick McGillis. The Viper captain cut to the middle and weighed his options before directing a low shot at Kurt Williams’s stick side. Tambellini swooped in to deposit the rebound from a sharp angle.

Alex Gillies, Salmon Arm’s designated 16-year-old who hails from Vernon, tied the game at 3:46, following an ill-fated pinch by the Vipers’ right defenceman. With Jeff Kennedy at the edge of Kirby Halcrow’s crease, Gillies fired a high shot that seemed to bounce in off Halcrow’s chest.

Two minutes later, with Devin Muller and Cody Dhaliwal creating mayhem in the Viper end, Klay Kachur stepped into a slap shot just over the blue line and beat Halcrow low glove side.

Another Saskatchewan bred blue liner, Sean Flanagan, added to the Viper woes with another blue line blast at 17:56.

Each team had seven scoring chances in the period, but the Silverbacks did a better job of converting their chances, partly because of sterling work by Kurt Williams, who stopped 12 of 13 Viper shots.

That trend reversed in the second period as the Vipers scored three unanswered. Big rookie Jedd Soleway came off the bench to collect a loose puck. He then burst across the Salmon Arm blue line, and blasted a low slap shot past Williams at 14:31.

The Vipers struck again on their next shift. Following a Darren Nowick faceoff win, Mike Zalewski whirled and fired a low slapper from the high slot. His shot beat Williams just inside the post, glove side.

Zalewski notched another, his third of the season, at 18:43. This time his slap shot went high, over the right shoulder of the Silverback goalie. At that point, Coach Colin O’Hara pulled Williams in favor of Adam Clark.

Soon after, the Vipers ran into penalty trouble. Aaron Hadley was issued a charging call at 19:06 and 11 seconds later Brett Corkey was flagged for tripping.
The ensuing 5 on 3 power play became a turning point in the game. Brett Corkey, Max Mowat, and Darren Nowick killed the majority of the disadvantage, which carried into the third period.

The twin killing led to solid defensive work for most of the period. However, occasional breakdowns allowed scoring chances at both ends, but both Halcrow and Williams (who returned to the crease at the beginning of the third) were brilliant.

Still, Salmon Arm was able to break through when Bryce Gervais stole the puck in the Viper zone and tested Halcrow. Devin Muller jumped on the rebound and deposited the disk over a sprawling Halcrow.

Once again, special teams were important in a Viper win. For the second successive night, the Vipers scored two power play goals while blanking the Salmon Arm power play. In the two weekend encounters, the vipers went 4 for 10 while the Silverbacks failed on 13 power plays.

Game Notes:

• Salmon Arm was without defenceman Joel Kipp, whose ruptured spleen was removed in an emergency operation following Friday’s game.

• Riley Hunt, Luke Juha, and Alex Hagen were scratched from the Viper lineup because of injuries.

Open Season For Viper Veterans:

This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:

Open season for Viper veterans

By Graeme Corbett - Vernon Morning Star

Published: September 25, 2011

It took Darren Nowick more than 30 games to score his first B.C. Hockey League goal last season.

The Long Beach, Cali. native cut that to 30 seconds in his sophomore year, burying the first shot of the game as the Vernon Vipers iced the Salmon Arm SilverBacks 5-1 in their season opener Friday night at Wesbild Centre.

Nowick, one of just three 20-year-olds on the Vernon roster and the game’s first star, wired a one-timer on a nice setup by Mike Zalewski, who got in behind the Salmon Arm defence to collect a stretch pass from Brett Corkey.

“It felt really good to get it off my back now, and start going from there,” grinned Nowick, who looked dominant on the Vipers’ all-American top line of Zalewski (New Hartford, N.Y.) and John Knisley (Pittsford, N.Y.).

“We just continued from what we did last year, halfway through the season. It should be a good line all the way to the end.”

Kirby Halcrow jumpstarted his 2011-12 campaign with a pair of saves in close on SilverBack captain Brett Knowles and forward Bryce Gervais. The burly 6-foot-2 tender looked relaxed in recording 31 stops for his first win of the season.

Salmon Arm starter Kurt Williams (29 saves) didn’t get a lot of help in front of him and seemed to be fighting off pucks.

“It was pretty scrambly. Six guys knew each other coming into camp so it’s a lot of new faces. It’s just a matter of getting to know each other out there and making things click,” said Knowles.

“It’s just ‘welcome to the league’ for a lot of these guys. To a man, we weren’t good enough, but we’ve got to get past it.”

Heading into the season, the Vipers said they were going to utilize their speed, and it showed Friday night. Leading the way were the veterans, who accounted for all five Vernon goals.

“We’re going to lean on our veterans. They’ve got to show the way. Five goals from five veterans tonight – that speaks highly of them. They brought their A-game,” said Vernon head coach Jason Williamson.

The Vipers, who were dominated by Salmon Arm in last year’s regular-season series, were equally aggressive on the penalty kill, intercepting passes and breaking out on multiple odd-man rushes.

“We want to be relentless on the puck, and that’s what we were for the most part,” said Williamson.

“There’s a lot of things we’ve got to shore up, but the effort was there and the guys were competing and we got the outcome we wanted.”

With the SilverBacks’ Klay Kachur serving a boarding penalty, Knisley threaded a cross-ice, backdoor pass for Zalewski (second star) on the powerplay to make it 2-0 Vernon before the first intermission.

The SilverBacks, wearing their new-look, L.A. Kings-style jerseys, responded just 20 second into the second frame as Morgan Zulinick collected a turnover in the neutral zone and hustled into Vernon’s zone to snap a quick shot past Halcrow from his off wing.

The Vipers’ Aaron Hadley responded on the next shift with a couple quick shots in close, but couldn’t finish.

The all-rookie line of Connor Hartley, Jedd Soleway and 16-year-old call-up Cole Sanford (KIJHL Revelstoke Grizzlies) followed that up with some swarming pressure in Salmon Arm’s zone.

Vernon netted its second powerplay goal when Marcus Basara (third star) dropped a short pass to Pat McGillis, who used a Salmon Arm defender as a screen to squeak a low snapshot through Williams’ five-hole at 6:01.

Halcrow’s best save in the frame came with 13 seconds left as he stopped Stefan Nickolishen with a nice glove save.

Vernon had to weather a stint of shorthanded play early in the third period on a pair of borderline minors called by referee Nick Swaine. He drew the ire of an estimated 1,700 fans when he assessed Knisley a tripping penalty for what looked like a solid hipcheck.

Swaine then sent Ryan Renz off on a kneeing infraction after the strapping defender leveled a Salmon Arm attacker at his blueline.

The Salmon Arm powerplay went 0-for-5, which is something head coach Colin O’Hara wants to see improve.

“Our special teams have to get better. We gave up two powerplay goals and didn’t score on any of our opportunities. Those guys that are privileged to play those minutes have to get better for sure,” said O’Hara, a former assistant coach with Vernon.

“We made the game hard on ourselves and on our d-men by giving up so many odd-man rushes. We’ve got a long way to go if we want to compete with these top teams.”

Vernon went up 4-1 when Colton Sparrow corralled a centring pass from Barasa before ripping a shot post-and-in on a rush at 6:34.

Knisley nearly got burned as he coughed up the puck right in front of Halcrow, who bailed him out with a pair of reflex saves. The speedy forward got the puck back and wheeled up ice, redeeming himself with a gorgeous top-shelf snipe over Williams’ blocker to complete the scoring at 18:24.

The Vipers visited the SilverBacks Saturday night at Sunwave Centre. They travel to West Kelowna to take on the Westside Warriors Friday night at Royal LePage Place.

In other Interior Conference action Friday night, the Penticton Vees got a goal and two helpers from Mike Moran in a 5-2 win over the host Coquitlam Express.

After trading two goals apiece in the first period, the Vees buried three unanswered goals to put the game away. Troy Stecher recorded the winner at 6:01 of the second period.

Rylan Ferster’s Westside Warriors scored five times in the second frame on the way to a 7-3 win over the host Trail Smoke Eaters Friday night at Cominco Arena.

Tyler Krause led the Warrior attack with a hat trick. Seb Lloyd added a goal and two assists.

Former SilverBack Paul De Jersey collected 2+1 to lead the host Prince George Spruce Kings to a 6-3 win over the Merritt Centennials at the Coliseum.

Spruce King triplets Gerry (2G), Leo (1+1) and Myles Fitzgerald (1A) combined for five points.

SNAKE BITES: The Vipers named Zalewski, Hadley and Corkey as their assistant captains for the coming season.

Vernon 5 Salmon Arm 4 (Overtime)

I was at the Salmon Arm Silverbacks home opener tonight as Vernon defeated Salmon Arm 5-4 in overtime at the Sunwave Centre.

Starting Goaltenders:

Vernon: Kirby Halcrow
Salmon Arm: Kurt Williams

1st Period: The Vipers got the play deep off the opening faceoff, setting up Darren Nowick who was all alone in front just thirty seconds into the game, but Nowick's shot hit someone in front and went wide on a great scoring opportunity early. Nowick opened the scoring in the Vipers home opener last night just thirty seconds into the hockey game. On the same play back come the Silverbacks as Salmon Arm captain, Brett Knowles and Stefan Nicholishen come in on a two on one but rookie d-man, Marc Hetnik made a solid defensive play blocking Knowles shot-pass to breakup the Backs scoring chance. Vernon would get the games first powerplay just shortly after and capitalize. Vipers captain, Patrick McGillis was stopped in close by Kurt Williams, but Williams couldnt control the rebound wich allowed rookie, Adam Tambellini from the goal line to hit the empty cage at 2:00 giving Vernon an early 1-0 lead. McGillis and Aaron Hadley collected the helpers. Just 1:46 later Salmon Arm tied the game on a bit of a lucky bounce. Vernon product, Alex Gillies on an odd man rush, tried throwing the puck out front but the puck went in and off a Viper d-man in front beating Kirby Halcrow who had no chance on the goal at 3:46. Gillies goal was unassisted. Just over two minutes later Klay Kachur beat wich looked like a screened Halcrow after a shot from the slot gave the Backs a 2-1 lead at 5:52, Devin Muller and Kody Dhaliwal picked up the assists. The Vipers would then get another shot with the man advantage, Max Mowat moved in from the point and ripped a quick shot from the circle but Kurt Williams made a tough save with traffic in front as this was the only real good scoring chance as Salmon Arm killed off the minor. The Backs would get a great chance on another odd man rush, Devin Muller and Bryce Gervais on a two on one, Muller decided to shoot but couldnt beat Halcrow. Marcus Basara back the other way was stopped by Williams who was sharp in the opening period and played much better tonight. The Silverbacks would get their first shot with the man advantage but before the penalty expired the Backs would take a minor as both teams played a little four on four. The Vipers would get a late but shortened powerplay but unable to capitalize. Late in the period with both teams four on four for a second time, the Backs struck quick after Sean Flanagan beat Kirby Halcrow blocker side at 17:56 giving Salmon Arm a 3-1 lead. Brendan Kennedy and Morgan Zulinick with the assists. I think this is a goal Halcrow would like to have back. Halcrow who was very solid in Vernon's 5-1 victory over Salmon Arm last night, didnt look very sharp in the opening period. The Silverbacks with a 3-1 lead after 20 minutes of play. Both teams with some chances, were fairly even with one another. Salmon Arm looked and played much better looking like a different team compared to last night's squad. Vernon outshot Salmon Arm 13-8.

2nd Period: Vernon would get into some penalty trouble in the middle frame. The Backs with an early powerplay moved the puck around but didnt get any real good quality shots as the Vipers killed off the minor. Mike Zalewski would get a parcial breakaway but Matt Brown with a great defensive play brokeup Zalewski's breakaway. Salmon Arm would get another shot on the powerplay and come very close to making it 4-1 after Klay Kachur's point shot beat Halcrow but hit the post, the puck bounced back out front towards the side of the goal where Morgan Zulinick shot high and over the wide open cage. John Knisley and Patrick McGillis then with a shorthanded two on one couldnt capitalize after former Vernon Vipers defenceman, Bennett Hambrook stayed with Knisley and forced the Vipers forward into shooting way too late. The Vipers would end up killing off the penalty. The Backs would get their third straight man advantage but once again Vernon's strong penalty kill forced the Silverbacks to move the puck around and didnt give Salmon Arm a whole lot of room to shoot as Vernon killed off yet another powerplay. Killing off three straight penalties seemed to give the Vipers some life as Vernon come back with a hard shift, really got their legs going and started using their speed outskating the Backs creating off offensive chances. The Vipers slowly started to carry the play and got a little stronger as the period went along. Jedd Soleway with a nice wrist shot down low beat Williams at 14:31 cutting the Salmon Arm lead to with in a goal. Geoff Crisfield with the lone assist. Just twenty six seconds later Mike Zalewsksi ripped a wicked shot from the circle beating Kurt Williams at 14:57 tying the hockey game getting the Vernon fans out of their seats as the Sunwave Centre was stunned. Zalewski's goal was unassisted. This was the end of the night for Kurt Williams who was yanked after giving up four goals, rookie goaltender, Adam Clark replaced Williams. This didnt seem to matter as Vernon kept up the pressure attacking the Backs. With Vernon on a late powerplay, Darren Nowick with a nice pass setup Mike Zalewski for his second of the night at 18:43 giving the Vipers a 4-3 lead. Nowick and Mar Hetnik with the helpers. The Vipers would once again get into penalty trouble in the final minute as Salmon Arm would get a late two man advantage but two big shot blocks by Darren Nowick and Max Mowat allowed Vernon to excape the 2nd period ahead a goal. Vernon with a 4-3 lead after 40 minutes of play. Salmon Arm couldnt put the Vipers away with three straight powerplay's, The Vipers didnt quit, battled back and scored three goals in just over four minutes. Vernon really took over the edge in play and was the better of the two teams in the second half of the period. The Vipers outshot the Silverbacks 14-8.

3rd Period: The Backs would start the final period still on the two man advantage that was carried over from the end of the 2nd period. Salmon Arm would also go back to Kurt Williams who started between the pipes for the Backs to start the 3rd. The Vipers penalty kill was solid all night and would kill off the two man advantage. This gave the Vipers some life and Vernon would take off right where they left the 2nd period. The Vipers carried the edge in play and were by far the better club. The Vipers speed, skill and forecheck downlow gave the Silverbacks troubles at times. Patrick McGillis with a wicked shot from the circle ripped a blast off the mask of Kurt Williams. Vernon with several great chances in close couldnt beat Williams. The Silverbacks who struggled only managed just three shots in the first ten minutes of play. Marcus Basara with a great chance in close was stoned by Williams who made a huge pad save off Basara. Williams kept the Backs in this hockey game making some big saves through out the 3rd period. On a broken play inside the Vipers zone, Bryce Gervais's shot went off Ryan Renz before Devin Muller picked up the rebound at the side of the Vernon goal and roofed the puck up high over a down and out Halcrow tying the game at 9:43. Gervais with the lone assist. This was the Silverbacks on real good scoring chance so far this period. Just shortly after "AP" Cole Sanford who looked very good in last night's season opener, worked hard down low, getting through three Silverback players along the side wall before dishing the puck out front to Connor Hartley who couldnt beat Kurt Williams who made another pad save. Williams then made his two biggest saves of the night robbing Aaron Hadley and Patrick McGillis in front making two huge pad saves keeping the game tied. The Vipers dominated the 3rd but couldnt seem to find a way to beat Williams. With just over three minutes remaining Kirby Halcrow made his two biggest saves of the evening, robbing Bryce Gervais and Devin Muller in close. Both teams with chances were forced to head to overtime tied 4-4. Vernon dominated the play and outplayed the Silverbacks the entire period getting lots of good chances. Vernon outshot Salmon Arm 14-8.

Overtime: Both teams playing four on four, the play really opened up early and often as both teams went back and forth really picking up the play. A few good chances at both ends of the rink, before Aaron Hadley couldnt clear the zone, Salmon Arm with some good pressure in deep couldnt get the puck through a maze of players before Marc Hetik setup Marcus Basara who used his wheels, going around the net for the wrap around before Darren Nowick who was driving hard to the goal beat Williams at 4:20 as the Vipers bench poured onto the ice picking up the OT win! Basara with the only assist on the overtime winner. Vernon outshot Salmon Arm 5-3. With the win the Vipers improve to 2-0 on this young season.

Top Players: (Vernon)

Brett Corkey for the second straight night looked very solid on the Vipers backend. Corkey who is entering his 2nd season in Vernon will be looked apon to lead the way on the Vernon blueline.

Max Mowat had a strong game for the Vipers. Mowat played well and looked very good in all area's. Come up with a huge shot block on the Silverbacks two man advantage as well as made some real smart heads up plays in his own end late in the 3rd and into overtime.

Mike Zalewski (2 goals) Looked very good for the second straight night. This kid is a work horse, come into training camp this year adding some muscle and has looked very dangerous through out the pre-season and early into the regular season. Very hard to knock off the puck, very good down low and in and around the net.

Darren Nowick (1 goal and 1 assist) Another Vernon player who has looked very strong in both opening games of the BCHL regular season. Nowick just like last night was really flying tonight, used his speed and quickness to his advantage. Driving hard to the net in overtime, was rewarded with the OT winner.

Marcus Basara (1 assist) I was very impressed with Basara's play tonight. Another kid who used his speed and quickness to his advantage. Was skating hard tonight, really reads and see's the ice well, made some smart heads up plays through out the game.

Patrick McGillis (1 assist) The Vipers captain was another kid who didnt quit working tonight, had several good scoring opportunties tonight.

Kirby Halcrow (23 saves) Didnt look very sharp in the opening period, but seemed to settle down as the game went along and come up with a few big saves, especially two late in the final few minutes of the 3rd.

Game Thoughts: (Vernon)

Were only two games into a new season so it's hard to get a good read-look at any of the teams around the league, but from the middle of the 2nd period on, the Vipers really picked up their play and were the better of the two teams. Vernon carried the better of the play scoring three goals in just over four minutes in the 2nd period before really dominating the 3rd. Give the boys credit, they didnt panic and battled back down 3-1 on the road coming back to take a 4-3 lead into the 3rd and then pull out a very exciting overtime victory late in the extra period. I really like the looks and make of this years Vipers team, sure they need a little work here and there but so far from what I can see this year will be a very fun year to watch. For the second straight game, the veterans stepped up their game and showed the younger kids, the ropes. Im very impressed with the Vipers penalty kill this year (havnt given up a powerplay goal in the first two games) Vernon's defence didnt look that great in the 1st period but settled down a bit as the game went on. The Vipers didnt seem to get the bounces early into the game, alot of shots or good scoring chances hit a player in front, went off a guy's stick etc as well as the Vipers missing the net on a few good chances. The Vipers just wernt getting pucks through to the net, especially in the 1st and first half of the 2nd periods. The Vipers have new away jerseys this season, gone are the baby blue away jerseys the team has worn the past three or four years. The Vipers will now be wearing there 3rd set jerseys from last season as the new away jerseys.

Top Players: (Salmon Arm)

Matt Brown played very well defensively for the Backs. Made a heck of a play to breakup and stop Mike Zalewski on a parcial breakaway in the 2nd period.

Bennett Hambrook played very solid on the Salmon Arm backend. The former Viper d-man played very well in all area's.

The line of Bryce Gervais (1 assist), Kody Dhaliwal (1 assist) and Devin Muller (1 goal & 1 assist) was very dangerous for the Silverbacks. Gervais and Muller with several good scoring opportunities.

Brett Knowles who wasnt really noticed in the season opener in Vernon, played a much better-stronger game tonight. Really worked and battled hard all game.

Alex Gillies (1 goal) Looked very good in the opening period, but wasnt really noticed in the 2nd and 3rd periods.

Kurt Williams (41 saves) who looked a little shaky at times in the Vipers home opener last night, played and looked much better this evening. Williams made some key saves in the opening period and then come up with his best saves for the 3rd period giving his team a chance to win.

Game Thoughts: (Salmon Arm)

This was a much better effort-performance tonight. Salmon Arm played with a little more jump tonight, gave Vernon a good run and come close to pulling out their first win of the young season. Specialty teams was the difference. The Backs with a 3-1 lead to start the 2nd period had three straight powerplays and could have burried the Vipers but couldnt capitalize giving Vernon a little momentum, inwich they scored three quick goals to take the lead. The Silverbacks offence wich wasnt really noticable last night, had several good scoring chances. I thought Salmon Arm's defence played fairly well (especially in the first two periods) The Silverbacks seemed to just get a stick, skate or body in front of alot of the Vernon shots, wich made it difficult for the Vipers shooters. Overall this was a very exciting-entertaining hockey game. The Silverbacks have new home jerseys, just like the teams new away jerseys. Last night in Vernon the Backs wore there 3rd set jerseys from last year wich I have heard are there new away jerseys. This years home jerseys are exactlly like those but white. They have got rid of the purple and grey and gone with black and silver as the main colours.

Scratches:

Vernon:

Riley Hunt (Injured)
Alex Hagen
Luke Juha (Injured)

Salmon Arm:

Joel Kipp

3 Stars:

1st Star: Darren Nowick (1 goal & 1 assist)
2nd Star: Kurt Williams (41 saves)
3rd Star: Devin Muller (1 goal & 1 assist)

For more on tonight's game check out the boxscore,

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxscores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=977746&link=bchl

(Game Preview) Vernon @ Salmon Arm:

Vernon (1-0-0-0) @ Salmon Arm (0-1-0-0)

Tonight is the Silverbacks home opener and the second game of a home and home series between these two long BCHL rivals. The Silverbacks are coming off a 5-1 loss last night in the Vipers home opener. Tonight is the Vipers first game of a two game road trip (Salmon Arm & Westside) while the Silverbacks are home for two straight games (Vernon & Westside). You can listen to tonight’s game live with Todd Miller and Don Klepp starting with the pre-game show at 6:45pm on 107.5 Kiss FM

Last Game Played:

Friday, September 23rd Vernon defeated Salmon Arm 5-1

Next Game:

Friday, September 30th Vernon @ Westside
Wednesday, September 28th Westside @ Salmon Arm

Lets take a look at the Vernon Vipers:

Games Played: 1
Wins: 1
Losses: 0
Ties: 0
Overtime Losses: 0
Home Record: 1-0-0-0
Road Record: 0-0-0-0
Goals For: 5
Goals Against: 1
Standings: 1st Place

Since the 2002-03 regular season Vernon is 36-24-3-4 vs. Salmon Arm

Since the 2002-03 regular season Vernon has outscored Salmon Arm 236-224

Since the 2003-04 regular season Vernon is 14-12-0-2 at home vs. Salmon Arm

Since the 2003-04 regular season Vernon is 16-9-2-3 in Salmon Arm

Vernon is 5-5-0-0 in its last 10 regular season visits at the Sunwave Centre

Vernon is 3-6-0-1 in its last 10 regular season games vs. Salmon Arm

The Vipers last regular season win at the Sunwave Centre was a 6-3 victory back on Wednesday, December 29th 2010

The Vernon Lakers changed their name to the Vernon Vipers to start the 1995-96 season. Here’s a look at the Vipers all-time regular season record

Games Played: 961
Wins: 620
Losses: 245
Ties: 15
Overtime Losses: 84

For more stats & former Vernon Junior Hockey Team rosters & lineups please visit Paul’s Vernon Junior Hockey History website,

http://members.shaw.ca/vernonfranchise/index.html

Vernon Vipers Returning Players:

Marcus Basara (93)
Brett Corkey (92)
Aaron Hadley (93)
John Knisley (92)
Patrick McGillis (91)
Max Mowat (93)
Darren Nowick (91)
Ryan Renz (93)
Colton Sparrow (93)
Michael Zalewski (92)
Kirby Halcrow (91)

Vernon Vipers Departing & traded players from last years team:

Dylan Walchuk (92)
David Robinson (90)
Bryce Kakoske (90)
Malcolm Lyles (90)
Trevor Fitzgerald (92)
Adam Thompson (90)
Steven Weinstein (90)
Kyle Murphy (90)
Dane Muench (92)
Philip Patenaude (91)
Zach McPhee (93)
Blake Voth (91)

Vernon’s Home record vs. Salmon Arm:

1-0-0-0

Vernon’s Road record vs. Salmon Arm:

0-0-0-0

Vernon’s Powerplay vs. Salmon Arm:

2-4

Vernon’s scoring leaders vs. Salmon Arm:

Darren Nowick (1-1-2)
Marcus Basara (0-2-2)
Michael Zalewski (1-1-2)
John Knisley (1-1-2)
Brett Corkey (0-1-1)
Marc Hetnik (0-1-1)
Patrick McGillis (1-0-1)
Colton Sparrow (1-0-1)

Kirby Halcrow (1-0 Record)

-Patrick McGillis has (2-3-5) in 12 career games vs the Backs

-Kirby Halcrow is 3-7 in his career vs. Salmon Arm

Let's take a look at the trades the Vipers have made so far this season.

27-Jun-11 The Vernon Vipers Hockey Club acquires the CJHL playing rights of Luke Juha (93)(D) from the Burlington Cougars Hockey Club of the OJHL in exchange for future considerations.

02-Aug-11 The Vernon Vipers Hockey Club transfers the playing rights of Dane Muench (92)(F), Phillip Patenaude (91)(D) and future considerations to the Kindersley Klippers Hockey Club in exchange for the playing rights of Jarryd Ten Vannholt and Justin Elliot.

19-Sep-11 The Vernon Vipers Hockey Club transfers the playing rights of Jarryd Ten Vaanholt (91)(F) to the Victoria Grizzles Hockey Club in exchange for future considerations.

Lets take a look at the Salmon Arm Silverbacks:

Games Played: 1
Wins: 0
Losses: 1
Ties: 0
Overtime Losses: 0
Home Record: 0-0-0-0
Road Record: 0-1-0-0
Goals For: 1
Goals Against: 5
Standings: Tied for 2nd Place

Salmon Arm Silverbacks Returning Players:

James Friedel (91)
Bryce Gervais (92)
Brett Knowles (91)
Devin Muller (92)
Morgan Zulinick (94)
Kurt Williams (91)

Salmon Arm Silverbacks Departing & traded players from last years team:

Mike Hammond (90)
David Killip (91)
Brad Reid (90)
Devin Gannon (91)
Jarryd Ten Vaanholt (91)
Clinton Atkinson (91)
Josh Manson (91)
Cody Michelle (92)
Jayson Reardon (90)
Charlie Vasaturo (90)
Brandon Mistal (92)
Paul De Jersey (92)
Kevin Mills (90)
Josh McKissock (92)
Dustin Cave (94)
Justin Elliott (92)
Kris Moore (90)

Salmon Arm’s Home record vs. Vernon:

0-0-0-0

Salmon Arm’s Road record vs. Vernon:

0-1-0-0

Salmon Arms Powerplay vs. Vernon:

0-7

Salmon Arm’s scoring leaders vs. Vernon:

Morgan Zulinick (1-0-1)
Bennett Hambrook (0-1-1)

Kurt Williams (0-1 Record)

-Brett Knowles has (5-6-11) in 15 career games vs. Vernon

Former Vernon Vipers assistant coach, Colin O'Hara is the new head coach-gm of the Salmon Arm Silverbacks and will face his former team for the second straight night.

Defenceman Bennett Hambrook faces his former team for a second time but the first as a member of the Salmon Arm Silverbacks. Hambrook started last season with Vernon before getting traded early into the new season to Prince George. The Spruce Kings then traded the former Viper over the off season to the Woodstock Slammers before the Backs aquired the second year d-man in late August.

Let's take a look at the trades the Silverbacks have made so far this season.

27-Jun-11 The Salmon Arm Silverbacks Hockey Club transfer the playing rights of Jarryd Ten Vaanholt (91)(F), Josh McKissock (92)(F) and Justin Elliot (92)(D) to the Kindersley Klippers Hockey Club of the SJHL in exchange for the playing rights of Sean Flannagan (92)(D).

19-Jul-11 The Langley Rivermen Hockey Club transfers the playing rights of Kody Dhaliwal (91)(F) to the Salmon Arm Silverbacks Hockey Club in exchange for future considerations.

05-Aug-11 The Westside Warriors Hockey Club transfers the playing rights of Stefan Nicholishen (93)(F) to the Salmon Arm Silverbacks Hockey Club in exchange for the playing rights of Dustin Cave (94)(D).

10-Aug-11 The Surrey Eagles Hockey Club transfers the playing rights of Doug Wedel (92)(D) to the Salmon Arm Silverbacks Hockey Club in exchange for future considerations.

11-Aug-11 The Salmon Arm Silverbacks Hockey Club transfers the playing rights of Paul DeJersey (92)(F) to the Drumheller Dragons Hockey Club of the AJHL in exchange for the playing rights of Matt Brown (91)(D).

11-Aug-11 The Salmon Arm Silverbacks Hockey Club acquires the playing rights of Michael Betz from the Drumheller Dragons Hockey Club of the AJHL in exchange for future considerations.

22-Aug-11 The Salmon Arm Silverbacks Hockey Club acquires the playing rights of Bennett Hambrook from the Woodstock Slammers Hockey Club of the MJHL in exchange for future considerations.

06-Sep-11 The Salmon Arm Silverbacks Hockey Club transfered the CJHL playing rights of John Stechyshyn (93) and future considerations to the Melville Millionaires Hockey Club of the SJHL in exchange for the CJHL playing rights of Klay Kachur (91).

22-Sep-11 The Salmon Arm Silverbacks Hockey Club transfers the playing rights of Ryan Crosson (92) to the Estevan Bruins Hockey Club of the SJHL in exchange for future considerations.

For more on the Salmon Arm Silverbacks and tonights game, please visit Scott Campbells new Welcome To The Jungle Salmon Arm Silverbacks Blog,

http://silverbacksmack.blogspot.com/  

Here’s a look at the season series between these two teams:

Friday, September 23rd @ Vernon: Vernon wins 5-1

SCORING SUMMARY

PERIOD 1

Vernon Vipers at 0:31 - Darren Nowick from Michael Zalewski and Brett Corkey
Vernon Vipers at 14:09 (PP) - Michael Zalewski from Darren Nowick and John Knisley

PERIOD 2

Salmon Arm Silverbacks at 0:20 - Morgan Zulinick from Bennett Hambrook
Vernon Vipers at 6:01 (PP) - Patrick McGillis from Marcus Basara

PERIOD 3

Vernon Vipers at 6:34 - Colton Sparrow from Marcus Basara
Vernon Vipers at 18:24 - John Knisley from Marc Hetnik and Kirby Halcrow

Vernon outshot Salmon Arm 34-32. Kirby Halcrow made 31 saves in the win, while Kurt Williams made 29 saves in the loss.

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxscores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=977656&link=bchl

Here's a look at both teams rosters:

Vernon:

John Knisley (1-1-2)
Darren Nowick (1-1-2)
Michael Zalewski (1-1-2)
Marcus Basara (0-2-2)
Patrick McGillis (1-0-1)
Colton Sparrow (1-0-1)
Brett Corkey (0-1-1)
Marc Hetnik (0-1-1)
Geoff Crisfield (0-0-0)
Aaron Hadley (0-0-0)
Alex Hagen (0-0-0)
Connor Hartley (0-0-0)
Turner Lawson (0-0-0)
Max Mowat (0-0-0)
Ryan Renz (0-0-0)
Jedd Soleway (0-0-0)
Adam Tambellini (0-0-0)
Riley Hunt (0-0-0)
Luke Juha (0-0-0)

Kirby Halcrow (1-0 Record, 1.00 GAA)
Danny Todosychuk (0-0 Record)

Salmon Arm:

Morgan Zulinick (1-0-1)
Bennett Hambrook (0-1-1)
Matt Brown (0-0-0)
Sean Flanagan (0-0-0)
James Friedel (0-0-0)
Klay Kachur (0-0-0)
Brendan Kennedy (0-0-0)
Joel Kipp (0-0-0)
Brock Balson (0-0-0)
Michael Betz (0-0-0)
Kody Dhaliwal (0-0-0)
Bryce Gervais (0-0-0)
Alex Gillies (0-0-0)
Jeff Kennedy (0-0-0)
Brett Knowles (0-0-0)
Graham McBain (0-0-0)
Devin Muller (0-0-0)
Stefan Nicholishen (0-0-0)
Kyle Oleniuk (0-0-0)
Kyle Schwartz (0-0-0)

Kurt Williams (0-1 Record, 5.00)
Adam Clark (0-0 Record)

Vets Key Viper Victory:

This is posted on the Vipers website:

Vets key Viper victory

by Don Klepp | Added 2011-09-23

Linemates Darren Nowick, Mike Zalewski, and John Knisley each contributed a goal and an assist as the Vernon Vipers overwhelmed the Salmon Arm Silverbacks 5-1 in the two teams’ season opener.

Fellow vets Patrick McGillis and Colton Sparrow also scored and Kirby Halcrow displayed standout goaltending as the Vipers began their defence of their BCHL crown.

Morgan Zulinick and Brett Knowles were the best two Silverbacks in the game but Halcrow stymied them in tight on several occasions. Zulinick had the ‘Backs’ lone goal, to make the score 2-1, 20 seconds into the second period.

The Vipers had struck early in the first period. Brett Corkey’s left wing pass was collected by Mike Zalewski, who beat a Silverback defenceman along the boards, stepped across the blue line and fed a streaking Darren Nowick. From the right faceoff circle, Nowick ripped a low shot that beat Kurt Williams on the stick side.

In his rookie season, Nowick took 30 games to get his first goal, but he scored just 31 seconds into this year’s campaign.

The same line struck again at 14:09 of the opening period. On the power play, Nowick won a draw and dished to John Knisley in the left faceoff circle. Knisley’s cross-ice slap pass was one-timed from the right faceoff circle by Mike Zalewski before Williams could react.

In the second period, after Zulinick took Bennett Hambrook’s pass and snapped a shot past Ryan Renz and then past Kirby Halcrow, the Vipers restored their two-goal lead with a second power play marker.

Marcus Basara won a puck in the offensive zone and responded to Patrick McGillis’s call for the puck. McGillis shot quickly and surprised Williams with a low drive that went between the goalie’s pads.

The Vipers added two goals on sharp shooting in the third period. At 6:34, Marcus Basara collected his second assist when Colton Sparrow accepted Basara’s flip pass and beat Williams with a rising shot.

John Knisley duplicated that feat at 18:24, powering a wrister over Williams’s shoulder. Rookie Marc Hetnik and goalie Kirby Halcrow drew assists on the play, which came after Halcrow had made a sensational save with his left arm.

Halcrow’s save was one of a half dozen highlight reel stops in the third period as the Vipers played giveaway in their end. The visitors outshot their hosts 13-8 in the third period, partly as a result of a string of Viper penalties and partly because of an ever-improving Silverback forecheck.

Special teams played an important role in this contest. The Vipers tallied twice in their four power plays while the Silverbacks were unable to convert any of their seven attempts.

The two teams will renew their rivalry Saturday evening in Salmon Arm.