Exhibition: Vernon 2 Salmon Arm 2

For anyone who could not attend or watch tonight’s Vipers game here are my thoughts and views from tonight’s game. You may agree or disagree but we all have our own view and opinion on any game we watch. This is my opinion and my thoughts on how I saw tonight’s game. I try to be unbiased and give a fare recap on both sides. Thanks for stopping by & visiting my blog.

I was at tonight's exhibtion BCHL game as Vernon tied Salmon Arm 2-2 at the Shaw Centre.

Starting Goaltenders:

Vernon:  Joe Young
Salmon Arm:  Adam Clark

1st Period:  The Vipers took control off the opening draw on an odd man rush Jedd Soleway playing his first pre-season game ripped a hard low shot from the circle that just missed the net the Silverbacks would recover take control and come back the other way Garrett Hendrickson with a hard shot from in close missed the net the puck come off the end wall before coming right out front of the Vipers crease as the puck hit Michael Statchuk and went into the open cage on a bad break for the Vipers as Salmon Arm jumped out to an early 1-0 lead just 1:02 into the contest.  Hendrickson's goal was unassisted.  Just after the goal the Vipers come back with a great scoring opportunity as Landon Robin and Riley Hunt broke out with a two on one but a strong defensive play by the Backs d-man shutdown Robin who couldnt get off a shot.  Both teams were fairly even through out tonight's game with not alot of scoring chances.  Both teams played fairly physical with some good checks especially in the first two periods.  Sean Flanagan's screened point shot just missed the net on a close call.  Both teams would get early powerplays.  Vernon with some good pressure couldnt get any pucks through as Salmon Arm's penalty kill was very good all night.  The Backs defence did a great job at keeping the Vipers to the outside, any shots taken were either blocked or hot a body in front.  Both teams couldnt capitalize with the man advantage.  Just before the halfway mark of the 1st Riley Hunt setup Mitch McAllister in the slot who beat Adam Clark at 9:17 tying the game at one.  Hunt and Michael Statchuk collected the assists.  Just minutes later the Silverbacks would get their second powerplay of the period but it was the hard work of Logan Mick that got a shorthanded breakaway but shot hard and wide of the net on a great chance.  The Backs would come right back, carrying the play up ice Brandon Mistal coming up the left side went wide around his defenceman before throwing the puck towards the front of the goal, the puck hit and went off a Vernon player in front and into the back of the net giving Salmon Arm a 2-1 lead at 14:51 This was the second bad break the Vipers got that ended up in the back of their net.  You couldnt blame the Vipers rookie goaltender on either of the two goals.  Mistal's goal was unassisted.  Vernon would get a late powerplay that would carry over into the second period.  The Silverbacks carried a 2-1 lead after 20 minutes of play.  A fairly even period with both teams not getting or creating alot of scoring chances.  Vernon outshot Salmon Arm 10-9.

2nd Period:  The Vipers started the period with a very short powerplay that was killed off by the Silverbacks.  Salmon Arm would get an early man advantage and had some very good pressure getting a few good opportunities.  Former Westside Warrior Nrayden Sherbinin with a hard shot from the point just missed the net on a close call after Joe Young was screened in front.  Vernon would kill off the penalty.  Salmon Arm didnt give up their as the Silverbacks kept coming even after the powerplay getting the play in deep and again putting some pressure on the Vipers creating some chances.  Both teams exchanged a few powerplays back and forth but nobody could capitalize.  On one powerplay the Vipers with atleast two or three players open at the side of the net tried getting the puck across but the pass was just not hard enough or wasnt on the tape for that tap in goal.  Vernon also didnt help themselves after missing the net atleast three or four times.  Halfway through the period the Backs switched goaltenders as Dustin Nickel replaced Adam Clark who gave up just one goal on sixteen Vernon shots.  The Silverbacks then came real close to going up by two goals after a quick shot from the side wall was stopped by Young the Backs crashed the crease wacking away at the loose puck but it was Joe Young who stayed with the puck and play, held his own somehow keeping the puck out with bodies in and around him as some pushing and shoving started after the whistle blew as tempers heated up a little.  With just over six minutes remaining the Vipers with some nice passing deep in the Salmon Arm end fed a wide open Riley Hunt who ripped a hard shot from the slot beat Nickel but hit the post.  For the second straight period not alot of scoring chances for either team.  The Vipers with just two shots in the final ten minutes.  Salmon Arm took a 2-1 lead heading into the third.  The Vipers outshot the Silverbacks 9-7.

3rd Period:  The Backs would get an early powerplay and just about take an early two goal lead after a nice bang bang play setup Vernon product Alex Gillies who beat Joe Young but rang his shot off the post.  Two quick lazer shots from the post just missed the far corner as the Backs with a few good chances were unable to score as Vernon killed off the minor.  Brendan Kennedy took an awkward hit in the Vipers zone twisting and turning in the air going hard and awkardly into the side boards.  Kennedy was slow to get up and looked to have hurt his leg or knee as he headed off to the Salmon Arm bench and into the tunnel.  Both teams with two powerplays couldnt convert in another period with few scoring chances.  Just after a man advantage Joe Serpico tried banking his shot off Dustin Nickel from behind the goal but Nickel played the shot well making the save.  Salmon Arm would get a late powerplay missing on two quality chances the Backs with another screened shot from the point just missed the far side as Vernon would excape and kill off the penalty.  Just after killing off the powerplay Marc Hetnik and Riley Hunt forced a two on one with about three and a half minutes remaining but Hetnik who was forced to shoot missed the net.  The play then really opened up as both teams went back and forth with some good rushes and both ends of the rink.  Vernon would call a late timeout before getting Joe Young to the bench with a minute remaining for the extra man.  The Vipers would get the play in deep but Salmon Arm did a great job at boxing the Vipers to the outside before pinning Vernon and the puck along the side wall eating some valuable time off the clock.  The Backs managed to clear the zone twice before the Vipers would get a faceoff deep in the Salmon Arm zone.  Vernon won the draw, a quick snap shot from the circle forced Dustin Nickel to make a huge save with the shaft of his goal stick the puck went behind the net where Aaron Hadley scooped up the loose puck, went back around out front and roofed his wrist shot from in close up and over Nickel who was down as Hadley tied the game with just 12.7 seconds left in the hockey game.  Jedd Soleway and Colton Sparrow with the helpers.  The game would end in a tie as there is no overtime in exhibtion play.  Again both teams were very evenly matched in a tight checking defensive game.  Vernon outshot Salmon Arm 10-7.

Top Players;  (Vernon)

Marc Hetnik didnt really stand out for me in the opening period but I thought stepped up his game and looked fairly impressive as the game went along.  Hetnik jumped up into the play carrying the puck on a few rushes creating some good opportunties. 

Riley Hunt (1 assist) also played very well tonight.  Hunt who always hustles and skates-works hard tonight got involved in the play more and was alot more effective tonight then several games in the past.  Had a great chance in the 2nd to tie the game but hit the post.

Mitch McAllister (1 goal) Has impressed me all Training camp-pre season.  Not the biggest kid but hustles and works hard and gets involved in the play, gets several good scoring chances every night.

Logan Mick battled, competed and played well up front for the Vipers.  Had a shorthanded breakaway in the 1st period played with an edge tonight.

Colton Sparrow I thought played well, showed alot of hustle and tried creating some good chances.

Michael Statchuk was solid on the Vipers blueline.

Ryan Renz also played very well on the backend, saw alot of minutes on the blueline especially on the man advantage.

Game Thoughts:  (Vernon)

With the tie the Vipers improve to 1-1-2 during the pre-season.  The Vipers didnt generate alot of scoring chances but played well.  After taking a ton of penalties in West Kelowna Tuesday night I thought the Vipers played fairly diciplined tonight.  Vernon didnt get any bounces tonight and needs to work on their faceoffs and passing.  I thought the Vipers passing in West Kelowna the other night was very crisp, tonight they just couldnt seem to make any real hard crisp passes.  I really like the looks of the Vipers defence and the overall make of this years team.  The coaching staff is going to have some tough choices to make before the regular season starts.

Top Players:  (Salmon Arm)

Brendan Kennedy played very well on the Silverbacks backend.  I thought played very well.

Sean Flanagan also played well on the blueline.

Brayden Sherbinin was the Backs best defenceman tonight.  Didnt notice him as much in the third but I was impressed with the veteran d-man.

Adam Clark & Dustin Nickel both played well between the pipes for Salmon Arm.  Clark who was the Silverbacks backup tender last season is a big kid who covers alot of the net.  Nickel on the other hand is much smaller and dosnt cover alot of the net but is quick on his feet and very good with his rebound control.  Both goaltenders didnt have any real outstanding saves to make but played well.

Game Thoughts:  (Salmon Arm)

It was sure weird seeing former Vipers head coach-gm Troy Mick behind the bench of the Silverbacks.  Already I have noticed a difference with the Backs compared to last season.  Playing just their second exhibition game I thought Salmon Arm did very well against a Vernon team who was playing game #4.  I thought the Backs penalty kill and defence was very good.  They dont give you alot of time and space, keep you boxed to the outside and dont give up alot of shots.  The defence isnt afraid to block a shot and really forced the Viper shooters.  Salmon Arm was very good on the draw winning most of the faceoffs and like to drive hard to the net.  In the first two periods on a few occasions the Silverbacks crashed the net pretty hard.

Here is a look at both teams lineups-rosters

Vernon:

Joe Young
Danny Todosychuk

Kevin Guiltinan
Marc Hetnik
Bryce Eviston
Adam Tambellini
Riley Hunt
Landon Robin
Aaron Hadley
Craig Martin
Mitch McAllister
Logan Mick
TJ Dumonceaux
Adam Fauchoux
Colton Sparrow
Joe Serpico
Michael Statchuk
Geoff Crisfield
Jedd Soleway
Ryan Renz

Scratches:

Austin Smith
Braeden Russell
Brett Corkey
Pearce Eviston

Salmon Arm:

Adam Clark
Dustin Nickel

Brendan Kennedy
Bennett Hambrook
Michael Klonarakis
Brandon Mistal
Jeff Kennedy
Sean Flanagan
Shane Hanna
TJ Christensen
Carter Lukenda
Brayden Sherbinin
Alex Gillies
Brayden Marsh
Jameson Stoski
Troy Petrick
Connor Brown-Maloski
Travis Stephens
Ryan Simpson
Garrett Hendrickson

They didnt announce Salmon Arm's scratches

(Game Preview) Exhibition: Vernon @ Salmon Arm:

Vernon (1-1-1-) @ Salmon Arm (0-1-0-)

Tonight is the first pre-season matchup of the year between the Vipers & Silverbacks in the first game of a home and home series.  Vernon is coming off a 5-1 victory in West Kelowna Tuesday while Salmon Arm is coming off a 3-2 loss to Wenatchee Sunday afternoon. No broadcast schedule over the internet or radio tonight as the game gets underway at 7pm

Next Game:

Saturday, September 1st Salmon Arm @ Vernon

Since the 2002-03 regular season Vernon is 40-25-3-6 vs. Salmon Arm

Since the 2002-03 regular season Vernon has outscored Salmon Arm 269-249

Since the 2003-04 regular season Vernon is 16-12-0-3 at home vs. Salmon Arm

Since the 2003-04 regular season Vernon is 18-10-2-4 in Salmon Arm

Vernon is 5-4-0-1 in its last 10 regular season visits at the Sunwave Centre

Vernon is 5-2-0-3 in its last 10 regular season games vs. Salmon Arm

The Vipers last regular season win vs Salmon Arm at the Wesbild Centre was a 4-3 overtime victory on Friday, March 9th 2012

The Vipers last regular season win at the Sunwave Centre was a 10-1 win on Saturday, March 10th 2012

The Vipers went 5-1-0-2 vs Salmon Arm last season

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:

Pre-Season Games Played: 3
Wins: 1
Losses: 1
Ties: 1
Home Record: 0-1-1
Road Record: 1-0-0
Goals For: 13
Goals Against: 13
Streak: One game winning streak

Vernon Vipers Returning Players:

Brett Corkey (92)

Marc Hetnik (92)

Geoff Crisfield (93)
Aaron Hadley (93)
Colton Sparrow (93)
Jedd Soleway (94)
Danny Todosychuk (94)
Riley Hunt (95)
Ryan Renz (93)
Adam Tambellini (94)

Vernon Vipers Departing & traded players from last years team:

Michael Zalewski (92)
Brendan Persley (93)
Darren Nowick (91)
John Knisley (92)
Colton Cyr (91)
Patrick McGillis (91)
Sean Robertson (91)
Ben Gamache (91)
Max Mowat (93)
Turner Lawson (94)
Kirby Halcrow (91)

Vernon’s Home record vs. Salmon Arm last season:

3-0-0-1

Vernon’s Road record vs. Salmon Arm last season:

2-1-0-1

Vernon’s Powerplay vs. Salmon Arm last season:

14-33

Vernon’s scoring leaders vs. Salmon Arm last season:

Darren Nowick (7-8-15)
Michael Zalewski (6-6-12)
Adam Tambellini (7-5-12)
Brett Corkey (1-8-9)
John Knisley (3-5-8)
Colton Sparrow (2-5-7)
Aaron Hadley (2-5-7)
Marc Hetnik (1-4-5)
Brendan Persley (3-2-5)
Ben Gamache (1-2-3)
Jedd Soleway (1-1-2)
Patrick McGillis (2-0-2)
Geoff Crisfield (1-1-2)
Sean Robertson (0-1-1)
Ryan Renz (0-1-1)
Colton Cyr (1-0-1)

Danny Todosychuk (1-0 Record)
Kirby Halcrow (4-3 Record)

Lets take a look at the Salmon Arm Silverbacks:

Pre-Season Games Played: 1
Wins: 0
Losses: 1
Ties: 0
Home Record: 0-1-0
Road Record: 0-0-0
Goals For: 2
Goals Against: 3
Streak: One game losing streak

Salmon Arm Silverbacks Returning Players:

Sean Flanagan (92)
Alex Gillies (95)
Shane Hanna (94)
Garrett Hendrickson (92)
Brendan Kennedy (94)
Jeff Kennedy (94)
Bennett Hambrook (92)
Michael Klonarakis (95)
Brandon Mistal (92)
Travis Stephens (93)
Adam Clark (93)

Former Vernon Lakers forward and Vernon Vipers Assistant Coach, head Coach & GM Troy Mick is the Silverbacks new Head Coach-GM-Part Owner

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

Morgan Zulinick (94)
Devin Muller (92)
Myles McCauley (91)
James Friedel (91)
Mak Barden (93)
Taylor Love (92)
Mike Berry (93)
Stefan Nicholishen (93)
Braden Pears (93)
Graham McBain (93)
Kurt Williams (91)

Salmon Arm’s Home record vs. Vernon last season:

2-0-0-1

Salmon Arm’s Road record vs. Vernon last season:

1-2-0-1

Salmon Arms Powerplay vs. Vernon last season:

8-40

Salmon Arm’s scoring leaders vs. Vernon last season:

Morgan Zulinick (3-8-10)
Devin Muller (3-5-8)
Sean Flanagan (3-5-8)
Myles McCauley (4-3-7)
Shane Hanna (1-5-6)
Brendan Kennedy (1-4-5)
Kody Dhaliwal (1-4-5)
Garrett Hendrickson (0-3-3)
Alex Gillies (3-0-3)
Bennett Hambrook (1-1-2)
Jeff Kennedy (1-1-2)
Mak Barden (0-1-1)
Bradley Robinson (0-1-1)
James Friedel (0-1-1)
Travis Stephens (1-0-1)

Kurt Williams (3-5 Record)

For more on the Salmon Arm Silverbacks and tonights game, visit Scott Campbells Salmon Arm Silverbacks blog, http://silverbacksmack.blogspot.ca/

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

Friday, September 23rd Salmon Arm @ Vernon (Vipers win 5-1)

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

Saturday, September 24th Vernon @ Salmon Arm (Vipers win 5-4 in overtime)

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

Friday, November 25th Salmon Arm @ Vernon (Silverbacks win 3-2 in Overtime)

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxscores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=977666&link=bchl

Saturday, November 26th Vernon @ Salmon Arm (Silverbacks win 3-2 in Overtime)

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxscores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=977758&link=bchl

Thursday, December 29th Vernon @ Salmon Arm (Silverbacks won 7-4)

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxscores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=977762&link=bchl

Friday, December 30th Salmon Arm @ Vernon (Vipers won 6-4)

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxscores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=977671&link=bchl

Friday, March 9th Salmon Arm @ Vernon (Vipers won 4-3 in overtime)

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxscores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=977685&link=bchl

Saturday, March 10th Vernon @ Salmon Arm (Vipers won 10-1)

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxscores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=977775&link=bchl

Goalie Battle Heats Up At Vernon Viper Camp:

This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:

Goalie battle heats up at Vernon Viper camp

By Graeme Corbett - Vernon Morning Star

Published: August 31, 2012

A trio of talented goalies, and only two positions available on the Vernon Vipers’ roster.

It has come down to a race between returning keeper Danny Todosychuk, a Vernon product who backed up Kirby Halcrow last season, Boston-area native Joe Young and Austin Smith, who played with the WHL Swift Current Broncos last season.

Smith, the oldest of the three at 19, seems to have pulled ahead in the starter sweepstakes after backstopping Vernon to a 5-1 win over the West Kelowna Warriors in B.C. Hockey League exhibition action Tuesday night at Royal LePage Place.

“Our goaltending, until last night, hadn’t been great,” said head coach Jason Williamson.

“Austin Smith, fortunate for us, we dragged him out of the Western Hockey League and he’s been the frontrunner for us. The other two are going to have to battle it out.

“Like I told these guys, just because you played here last year doesn’t mean you’re going to play here this year. Our job is to make sure we put the best 22 guys on the ice.”

Both Todosychuk and Young are 1994-born goalies, and while Todosychuk might hold the inside track as a returnee, Young comes with considerable credentials. He was listed at No. 31 on NHL Central Scouting’s final player rankings for North American goalies last season.

Todosychuk went 6-3 with the Snakes last season, recording a 3.19 goals against average and .895 save percentage. He doesn’t take his role for granted, and adds he learned a lot as a rookie.

“It was a good eye opener to realize where my game’s gotta go to make an impact in this league,” said Todosychuk.

“There’s three guys all vying for spots right now so it should be good. I’ve just got to keep going out there and stopping the puck every time.”

Smith went 3-7-1 as a backup with the Broncos last season, posting a 3.73 GAA and .885 SAV. When Swift Current drafted 19-year-old Finnish netminder Eetu Laurikainen 20th overall in the 2012 CHL Import Draft, he realized which direction the team was heading.

“I made the decision to come here – with Swift’s permission – because I wanted out and wanted to play somewhere else,” said Smith, a Calgarian who had originally asked to be traded to another WHL team.

“I hope to make a good impression. I feel confident in my abilities and know I can play.

“I’ve got a few training camps under my belt. It’ll be nice to hopefully give the guys some pointers and be a leader out here.”

Young was 9-6-6 (2.33 GAA, .932 SAV) with the Under 18 Boston Advantage.

In Tuesday’s win, Adam Tambellini powered the Vernon offence with a hat trick, while spark plug Riley Hunt and Joe Serpico added singles.

“Yeah, the kid can play,” said Williamson, of Tambellini. “He scored three goals no one else in the league, no one on this team, can score.”

Captain Max French converted on a West Kelowna powerplay.

Williamson was left with some difficult cuts as his team prepares for another home-and-home exhibition set, this one against the Salmon Arm SilverBacks, starting Friday night at the Shaw Centre. The ‘Backs visit Wesbild Saturday night (7:00).

Williamson released defencemen Nick Josephs and John Saunders, and forwards Eric Chore and Kurt Hildebrand Wednesday afternoon. He has three more cuts to get down to his 22-man roster.

“They are definitely starting to make my decisions harder,” he said.

Vernon opens its regular season with a pair of games at the inaugural BCHL Showcase in Chilliwack. They face the defending Royal Bank Cup champion Penticton Vees Saturday, Sept. 8, and the coastal champion Powell River Kings, Sunday, Sept. 9 at Prospera Centre.

All 16 BCHL teams will be in action at the Showcase.

– The BCHL announced the hiring of Trevor Alto as the league’s new executive director.

Alto, a White Rock native, comes to the BCHL after six years in the financial industry and replaces outgoing director David Sales. He is responsible for executing all league sponsor deliverables, generating new partnerships, heading the league’s finance committee and overseeing day-to-day administration. In addition, the 33-year-old is tasked with applying the BCHL’s discipline regulations.

A former Prince George Spruce King, Alto went on to play with the UBC Thunderbirds (2000-03) while he completed studies in sports management and commerce. While playing at UBC, he appeared in the movie Miracle where he portrayed Team USA forward Neal Broten.

– Vernon’s Jared Seutter has committed to the Selkirk College Saints for the coming B.C. Intercollegiate Hockey League season.

Seutter joins the Saints from the KIJHL Chase Heat, where he was captain during the franchise’s expansion year. The 5-foot-10 winger scored eight goals and totalled 25 points and 46 penalty minutes in 48 regular-season games, while earning the team’s Unsung Hero and Most Sportsmanlike Player awards.

Former Viper Forward Persley Attending Americans Training Camp:

Former Vernon Vipers forward Brendan Persley who was suppose to return to the Vipers this season has landed at the WHL Tri-City Americans Training camp.   Persley played with the WHL Victoria Royals & BCHL Vernon Vipers last season. In 36 regular season games with the Vipers Persley collected (9-5-14).  The Americans have  Persley as one of fifty five players listed on their 2012-13 prospects list.

Brendan Persley's Player Profile:

http://eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=48220

A Closer-More In depth Look At The Vipers Lineup-Roster:

I wanted to do this last week during the Vipers Training camp but I was busy and just didnt have anytime.  With two exhibition games remaining before the Vipers will pick their final roster for the start of the new 2012-13 BCHL regular season let's take a closer look at the rookies, new recruits and committed players who are still with the club.

Goaltender Joe Young

From Hanover, MA
Listed at 6'2-162 lbs
Birthdate-  April, 16th 1994

Last season Young played in 22 games with Boston Advantage going 9-6-6 with three shutouts and a 2.33 GAA

Goaltender Austin Smith (93)

From Calgary, Alberta
Listed at 6'-180lbs
Birthdate-  May, 22nd 1993

Last two seasons Smith played in 31 games with the WHL Swift Current Broncos going 3-13-1

Defenceman Kevin Guiltinan

From London, Ontario
Listed at 6'2-190 lbs
Birthdate-  April, 25th 1995

Played last season at the Hill Academy prep school

Defenceman Bryce Eviston

From Vancouver, BC
Listed at 5'9-175 lbs
Birthdate-  August, 2nd 1994

Played last year with the KIJHL Castlegar Rebels

Defenceman Michael Statchuk

From Wadena, SK
Listed at 5'10-178 lbs
Birthdate-  April, 4th 1994

Played last year with the Prince Albert Mintos

Defenceman John Saunders

From Newmarket, Ontario
Listed at 6'-200 lbs
Birthdate-  July, 27th 1994

Played last year with the KIJHL North Okanagan Knights

Forward Pearce Eviston

From Vancouver, BC
Listed at 6'1-185 lbs
Birthdate-  November, 4th 1992

Played last season with the WHL Portland Winterhawks in 18 games collected one goal

Forward Braeden Russell

From Oakville, Ontario
Listed at 6'3-203 lbs
Birthdate-  February, 10th 1993

Played last year with the OJHL Oakville Blades & OJHL St. Michaels Buzzers.  In 28 games with the Blades collected (16-23-39) In 8 games with the Buzzers collected (4-6-10)

Forward Adam Fauchoux

From Prince Albert, SK
Listed at 6'-183 lbs
Birthdate-  March, 10th 1994

Played last year with the Prince Albert Mintos In 44 games collected (15-25-40)

Forward Mitch McAllister

From Chestermere, Alberta
Listed at 5'8-173 lbs
Birthdate-  April, 7th 1994

Played last year with the UFA Bisons Mdgt AAA in 34 games collected (14-25-39)

Forward Logan Mick

From Vernon, BC
Listed at 5'10-160 lbs
Birthdate-  Jult, 25th 1996

Forward Craig Martin

From Trail, BC
Listed at 5'11-165 lbs
Birthdate-  March, 15th 1995

Played last year with the KIJHL Beavervalley Nighthawks

Forward Landon Robin

From Saskatoon, SK
Listed at 5'11-180 lbs
Birthdate-  March, 9th 1994

Played last year with the Beardys Blackhawks in 33 games collected (27-23-50)

Forward TJ Dumonceaux

From Kelowna, BC
Listed at 5'10-170 lbs
Birthdate-  June, 13th 1994

Played last year with the KIJHL Kelowna Chiefs in 45 games collected (18-32-50)

Forward Eric Chore

From Kelowna, BC
Listed at 5'8-173 lbs
Birthdate-  February, 24th 1993

Played last season with KIJHL North Okanagan Knights and Prince George Spruce Kings.  In 43 games with the Knights collected (23-27-50) Only played in four games with the Spruce Kings collecting one assist.

Forward Michael Roberts

From Vernon, BC
Listed at 5'9-175 lbs
Birthdate-  January, 6th 1995

Played last year with the KIJHL Revelestoke Grizzlies in 28 games collected (14-8-22)

Forward Joe Serpico

From Calgary, Alberta
Listed at 6'183 lbs
Birthdate- January, 17th 1994

Played last year with Calgary Flames Midget AAA in 27 games collected (14-27-41)

Vernon Vipers Game Worn-Autographed Away Jersey's For Sale:

The Vernon Vipers have come out with a brand new away jersey for this coming season (Florida Panthers 3rd set jersey from last year).  So the Vipers are selling off last years away jerseys.  They are navy blue away jerseys that say the word "Vipes" across the front of the jersey.  All are game worn and some are autographed. 

Here is a list of the Vipers away jerseys that are for sale,

Game worn jerseys with no namebar ($75.00)

#26 (Last worn by "AP" Cole Sanford)
#7 (Last worn by Dan Nycholat 2009-10)
#4 (Last worn by Max Mowat)

Game worn jerseys with namebars ($100.00)

#15 Mike Zalewski
#16 Darren Nowick
#17 Ben Gamache
#19 Patrick McGillis (Captain)
#21 Alex Hagen
#23 Brenden Persley
#24 Luke Juha
#28 Turner Lawson

Game worn-autographed jerseys with namebars ($150.00)

#1 Danny Todosychuk
#5 Marc Hetnik
#14 Aaron Hadley
#22 Colton Sparrow
#27 Jed Soleway
#29 Ryan Renz
#92 Dylan Walchuk

Please contact Kevin Black for any information or purchase on these jerseys

kevinblack@shaw.ca

Vipers Whittle Down Camp Roster:

This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:

Vipers whittle down camp roster

Published: August 29, 2012

Two games into their B.C. Hockey League exhibition season, and it has been mixed results for the Vernon Vipers.

Following a 9-5 goal-fest loss to the Wenatchee Wild Saturday night at Wesbild Centre, the Viper hopefuls settled down to record a 3-3 draw against the West Kelowna Warriors Monday at Wesbild.

Vernon head coach Jason Williamson isn’t as concerned about the scorelines as he is about evaluating his prospects, and so far he seems to like what he sees.

“It’s exhibition,” shrugged Williamson, when asked about the loss. “Did we want to win? Absolutely. But we were just trying to get a read on some players.

“We got better as the game went on. There were a lot of nerves, so that was good to see. And we scored five pretty good goals.”

The North American Hockey League Wild, wearing their road black with blue trim, went up 2-0 after just 10 minutes, and pushed the scoreline to 3-0 after one period.

The Wild shelled netminder Joe Young for their fourth unanswered goal (three of them on the powerplay) in the second period before Vernon finally came alive with two quick strikes.

Williamson said the Wild fielded a more experience lineup than Vernon, and were further along in their team systems.

“They were very quick and they definitely crashed the net pretty hard,” he said. “They definitely had some systems in place and they came prepared, more than the teams up here are ready for in preseason.”

Young was relieved by Vernon product Harrison Whitlock after Wenatchee counted the 5-2 goal.

Second-year Viper forward Adam Tambellini collected the goal of the night later in the second period, toe-dragging around a defender before going roof daddy over the Wenatchee netminder’s left shoulder.

The Wild took a 7-4 lead into the third period.

Braeden Russell, Ryan Edwards, Landon Robin and Colton Sparrow, all forwards, completed Vernon’s scoring.

Williamson released six players following Saturday’s game – netminders Whitlock and Conrad McMillan, defencemen Wyatt Trumbley and Jayce Polman-Tuin, and forwards Mat Lambert and Sam McMullen.

Edwards left the team of his own choosing on the weekend. He was projected to make the team after recording 95 points (35 goals and 60 assists) with the KIJHL Beaver Valley Nitehawks last season.

Williamson expects to make further cuts today.

The Vipers rebounded with a solid effort against the Warriors. Williamson credited his veterans for turning in a solid effort, and noted the play of forwards Logan Mick and TJ Dumonceaux, a former North Okanagan Knight who played a couple games last season with the Warriors.

“Their goaltenders played really well, but I thought we were the better of the two teams,” said Williamson. “We were physical and had lots of energy. It was a pretty entertaining game.”

Defencemen Bryce Eviston and Geoff Crisfield, and forward Nick Josephs handled Vernon’s attack Monday. Colton Thibault, a Vernon product, had one of West Kelowna’s goals. Thibault played Major Midget with the Okanagan Rockets last season.

The Vipers continued their preseason against the Warriors Tuesday night at Royal LePage Place. They wrap up their exhibition schedule with a home-and-home against the Salmon Arm SilverBacks, starting Friday night at the Shaw Centre. The ‘Backs visit Wesbild Saturday night (7:00).

Hockey Stars Tee It Up For KidSport:

This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:

Hockey stars tee it up for KidSport

By Andre Lodder - Vernon Morning Star

Published: August 29, 2012

In a lineup that featured the star power of Aaron Volpatti of the Vancouver Canucks, Jerred Smithson of the Florida Panthers and Edmonton Oilers’ GM Steve Tambellini, it was a group less used to the spotlight that ruled the standings.

Sean Matile, the goaltending coach for the Vernon Vipers, and his Texas Scramble team took the first-ever Vernon Vipers charity golf scramble for KidSport in convincing fashion.

Matile and teammates Rob Lenoury, Kevin Black and Troy Thibert shot an 13-under 59 at The Rise Sunday, earning Sun Ice tops, sandals and balls courtesy of The Rise.

Smithson and his team that included Jeff Wills, Steve Pauls, and Mitch Pauls, took second place on the par-72 course, pocketing fridges from Parnells.

The Panthers’ pivot, who took time out of his summer training schedule to tee up for KidSport, was happy to be a part of the Viper’s first tournament and is looking forward to its future.

“Anytime you get a chance to give back to different charities and different events, I think it goes a long ways,” said Smithson.

“I know it’s been a great turnout here so far this year, and being the first year, I can only see it getting bigger and I’m looking forward to seeing how big it can really get.”

The third-place finish was a family affair as current Viper cousins, Aaron Hadley and Adam Tambellini combined with their fathers Benton and Steve, to round out the top-three.

Vipers’ head coach Jason Williamson teamed with Volpatti, former Viper Bryce Kakoske, and Cole Benjaminsen from the Maple Leaf Jr. Tour, to finish eighth, earning duffel bags.

Williamson couldn’t help but notice the poor play of the players that were in attendance, particularly in the group that followed them.

“That’s why they’re paired up together,” said Williamson jokingly. “Some of them I know aren’t the best golfers, but it’s a good thing they can play hockey.”

Volpatti, a former member of the Vipers admitted he wasn’t having the best round of golf but was just happy to be a part of the tournament.

“Obviously the weather’s been nice and The Rise is a very nice and difficult course, having a bit of difficult time today but it’s good,” said Volpatti.

Volpatti was happy to be playing a round of golf with a lot of current and former members of the Vipers organization, but he knows the kids are really the ones who will benefit from a tournament like this.

“We’re all a privileged group of people so it’s good to recognize those kids and the charity is a good thing. It’s good for kids to enjoy their youth and participate in the things they want to.”

Third-year Viper Colton Sparrow echoed that statement noting that not everyone gets the same opportunities.

“Obviously there are a lot of kids out there that don’t get the opportunity to play the sports that I’ve been lucky enough to play, and some of the guys out here who have been lucky enough to get to the next level. Hopefully with this tournament, we can help some of those kids get to that next level,” said Sparrow.

While Sparrow and his team didn’t make the top-eight, he was happy to see so many people taking part.

“It’s been a lot of fun, getting to golf with these young guys. Even I have a hero out here. Volpatti is a guy I really look up to, so it sounds like everyone’s kind of got a hero out here, it’s been a lot of fun,” said Sparrow.

Lee Ranger from The Rise said that the charity classic was a big success with about 100 golfers. Ranger holds a positive outlook for future years.

“We have a three-year, $25,000 goal and we’re well on our way to achieving that after our first year,” said Ranger. Final totals on the amount raised will be announced later.

Montreal Canadiens’ goalie Carey Price, who had originally confirmed to play, was unable to play due to a family matter. Detroit Red Wings’ scout Marty Stein was among the hockey celebrities.

For more information on KidSport visit www.greatervernonkidsport.com

Exhibition: Vernon 5 West Kelowna 1

For anyone who could not attend or watch tonight’s Vipers game here are my thoughts and views from tonight’s game. You may agree or disagree but we all have our own view and opinion on any game we watch. This is my opinion and my thoughts on how I saw tonight’s game. I try to be unbiased and give a fare recap on both sides. Thanks for stopping by & visiting my blog.

I was at tonight's BCHL exhibition game as Vernon defeated West Kelowna 5-1 at Royal Le Page Place.

Starting Goaltenders:

Vernon:  Austin Smith
West Kelowna:  Cody Porter

1st Period:  The Vipers come out wearing their brand new away jerseys (Florida Panthers 3rd set jerseys) but with the Vipers old-original logo.  Just twenty seconds into the opening period the Warriors got the play deep in the Vipers zone as veteran forward Brett McKinnon setup Warriors captain Max French in front who was stopped by Austin Smith.  Both teams who were finishing the home and home series looked fairly even at the start but it was West Kelowna who had the better of the chances early.  Brett McKinnon with a great chance in front four minutes into the period was stopped by Austin Smith.  Vernon come right back the other way Kurt Hildebrand with a shot from the side wall just about snuck one through the pads of Cody Porter who had to close the fivehole shut before the Vipers tried poking away at the loose puck.  West Kelowna come back with some good pressure but no real scoring chances before the Vipers slowly started to take over the edge in play and outplayed the Warriors for most of the remainder of the 1st period.  Adam Tambellini setup Aaron Hadley in the slot who just missed the short side missing the net.  On the same play Hadley then setup Tambellini who beat Porter at 7:45 giving the Vipers a 1-0 lead.  Hadley with the only helper on the goal.  The Vipers kept coming getting a few good chances.  Cody Porter made a glove nice save off a Vipers three on two rush.  Aaron Hadley with a quick high snap shot from in close rang his shot off the mask of Porter.  Colton Sparrow alone in front missed the net from the slot on a great chance.  Around the midway mark Braxton Bilous's point shot went through a maze of players hitting two sticks in front as the puck just graized over the crossbar.  This was the Warriors first shot towards Austin Smith in several minutes as the Vipers were outshooting the Warriors at this point 12-4.  Just shortly after West Kelowna would get the games first powerplay Brett McKinnon somehow missed a great opportunity after a shot from in close somehow stayed out and was lying in the crease with a scramble of players everywhere before Smith was able to find and cover the puck.  On the next shift the Warriors would capitalize after former Vernon Viper Marcus Basara behind the goal setup Max French in front who beat Smith with a low shot to the ice tying the game 1-1 at 14:17 as Basara would collect the only assist.  The Vipers would then get their first powerplay of the night but unable to capitalize.  Vernon looked very good this period moving the puck well and getting lots og quality shots on net.  Joe Serpico with back to back chances was stuffed by Cody Porter.  Logan Mick and Kurt Hildebrand with some good hustle and work ended up setting up Joe Serpico who beat Porter giving Vernon a 2-1 lead at 18:28 both Mick and Hildebrand with the assists.  Just after the goal Mike Roberts with a good chance just about put the Vipers up 3-1.  Vernon would get a late powerplay that would carry into the 2nd period.  The Vipers were up 2-1 after 20 minutes of play.  The game started out fairly even with the Warriors getting the games first few real good chances but it was the Vipers who slowly got their game going and outplayed West Kelowna for most of the period.  Vernon outshot West Kelowna 20-12.

2nd Period:  Vernon started the 2nd with the powerplay that was carried over from the opening period but into the opening minute of play the Warriors would go down two men giving the Vipers a two man advantage.  The Vipers would get the play in deep and capitalize early after Adam Tambellini with his second of the night put Vernon up by two and still on the man advantage.  Brett Corkey and Colton Sparrow with the assists.  West Kelowna would dodge a bullett and kill off the second minor as Vernon was only able to get the one with the two man advantage.  Shortly after Max French with a burst of speed cut hard towards the goal got around his d-man but was stopped by Smith who shut the door.  The Vipers then run into penalty trouble playing most of the middle frame shorthanded.  Austin Smith who played very well last night gave the Vipers a chance to win tonight and kept his hockey club in the game in the second period making some big stops.  Jagger Bowles with a nice move around one Vernon defenceman before going around another Vipers d-man got inbehind the defence getting off a quick shot but couldnt beat Smith who made a nice save.  The Vipers would get their fourth powerplay of the night but it didnt last very long as Vernon would take a penalty as both teams played a little four on before West Kelowna had a short man advantage in the end but couldnt capitalize.  West Kelowna would get a full two minute man advantage and pepper Austin Smith but the Warriors couldnt solve the former Swift Current Bronco who made atleast five or six big saves as the Vipers goaltender was solid tonight.  A strong performance by Smith as the Vipers were able to kill off the two man advantage.  At the midway mark West Kelowna would switch goaltenders as former Victoria Grizzy Garrett Rockafellow would replace Cody Porter.  Porter made 31 saves giving up three goals.  Not much flow to this period as the Warriors played most of the period with the powerplay.  Other then Austin Smith the Viper defence was very strong defensively tonight.  Geoff Crisfield and Bryce Eviston both made two huge defensive plays to break up a Warriors scoring play.  Josh Monk on the man advantage walked into the slot before ripping a hard shot that hit Smith bouncing up in the air before the veteran goaltender leaned back on one knee got his glove up in the air to make a very difficult looking glove save to keep the puck out.  Marcus Basara alone at the circle had a great chance but fired wide shortside.  West Kelowna did miss the net on atleast four or five shots when a player was wide open.  The Vipers would ride the play of Austin Smith and excape a penalty filled period but took a 3-1 lead heading into the 3rd.  This period was all Warriors as West Kelowna had several powerplays but couldnt solve the Vipers goaltender.  West Kelowna outshot Vernon 18-13.

3rd Period:  West Kelowna would get back to back powerplays early to start the 3rd and get another two man advantage but this time it was the strong play from the Vipers defence that shutdown the Warriors powerplay unit not giving up any real scoring chances as the Vipers defence was very solid killing off all three penalties.  Just shortly after the Vipers slowly started to get their game back and carried the play for several minutes with some good pressure deep in the Warriors zone.  Moving the puck around the Vipers ate up alot of time off the clock getting some pretty good chances at the same time as Garrett Rockafellow made a few nice saves.  Adam Tambellini setup Aaron Hadley in front who was stopped by Rockafellow.  Landon Robin on a three on one decided to keep and shoot but Rockafellow stayed with his man making a nice save as the Vipers were outplaying West Kelowna for most of the 3rd.  Vernon would get a lucky break after Rockafellow got caught out behind his goal as Riley Hunt fired and hit the empty cage giving the Vipers a 4-1 lead at 14:56 Hunts goal was unassisted.  On the next shift some hard work and good pressure down low by Vernon would put them up by four goals after Aaron Hadley setup Adam Tambellini from a sharp angle in the corner who beat Rockafellow upstairs giving Vernon a 5-1 lead at 15:31 Hadley with the only helper on the play.  Two quick goals seem to take the life out of the Warriors.  With 3:26 remaining Kurt Hildebrand hit Adam Plant from behind along the sidewall before all three Warriors come rushing in as pushing and shoving began while Logan Mick dropped the gloves and started swinging punches at veteran Reid Simmonds.  With a linesman between the two both players continued to swing punches and exchange words as tempers started to heat up.  Hildebrand would get five minutes for checking from behind and a game misconduct as the Warriors would get a late five minute powerplay.  But once again the strong defensive play coming from the Vipers defence cooled off any pressure and offence from the Warriors as the Vipers would excape and wind down the clock before picking up their first victory of the pre-season coming away with a 5-1 win.  After some strong penalty killing early to start the period the Vipers got going and really looked good as they were the better of the two teams for most of the 3rd before having to end the period once again shorthanded.  Vernon outshot West Kelowna 14-9.

Top Players:  (Vernon)

The line of Aaron Hadley 92 assists), Craig Martin and Adam Tambellini (3 goals) was the Vipers best line tonight.  I didnt really notice Craig Martin but Adam Tambellini and Aaron Hadley looked very good setting one another up all night with some crafty plays.  Both Hadley and Tambellini looked very strong up front for the Vipers.

Kurt Hildebrand (1 assist)  I thought played fairly well tonight in his first pre-season game with Vernon. 

John Saunders played very well tonight on the Vipers blueline.

Brett Corkey 91 assist) for the second straight night looked and played very well at both ends of the rink.  Corkey looked so calm and confident on the backend tonight.

Bryce Eviston also played very well on the Vipers blueline.  Made a real nice defensive play in the 2nd period to break up a Warriors scoring play.

Austin Smith (38 saves) Has now given up just two goals in two games with the Vipers.  Smith who played and looked very good last night come up big tonight, especially in the 2nd period made some big saves with the Vipers shorthanded for most of the period.  I was a little worried about our goaltending heading into the Vipers Training camp but Smith has proven so far hes ready to take over the #1 job.  This kid looks very calm-relaxed and plays with alot of confidence.  I really like the looks of this kid and think Joe Young and Danny Todosychuk may have to battle it out for the backup position.

Game Thoughts:  (Vernon)

The Vipers come away tonight with their first win of the pre-season improving to 1-1-1 with two exhibition games left this weekend vs Salmon Arm.  Other then the 2nd period I thought overall the Vipers were the better of the two teams.  Ive said it a few times tonight, the Vipers defence was very solid tonight, especially on the penalty kill.  I really like the looks of our defence so far.  I also thought Austin Smith proved hes the best goaltender in camp as the Vipers have some very touch choices to make come next week.  When not in the penalty box I thought the Vipers looked very good up front, they showed some speed tonight and moved the puck well, had some nice setup plays and for the most part was bang on with the passing.  The Vipers had lots of pressure deep in the Warriors zone and looked good with the puck.  I dont think the coaching staff will be happy with the amount of penalties taken tonight but give credit to the penalty kill and goaltender for bailing them out.  So far I really like the looks and make of this years Viper team, they seem to be gelling and coming along nicely.  I see alot of team chemistry on the ice, wich I didnt see alot of last season.  I really like the Vipers new away jerseys, very sharp!

Top Players:  (West Kelowna)

The Warriors best line tonight was a veteran line with the likes of Brett McKinnon, Marcus Basara (1 assist) & Max French (1 goal).  I thought this line generated the most offence and come up with most of the Warriors scoring opportunities.  Brett McKinnon was very dangerous tonight, getting several scoring chances.  Max French come up with a few real good chances and played well up front.

Colton Thibault impressed me tonight, I thought he was involved in the play for most of the game and played with alot of jump.

Josh Monk played well on the West Kelowna backend, jumped up into the play and was good at both ends of the rink.

Cody Porter who made his BCHL pre-season debut last night started tonight's game and played very well for the second straight night.  Come up with a few big saves.  This kid is going to be very good.

Game Thoughts:  (West Kelowna)

The Warriors made their home pre-season debut tonight with Fred Harbinson in attendence checking out his opposition for this coming season.  Both teams looked fairly even to start tonight's game with the Warriors getting the better of the scoring chances early but it was the Vipers who outplayed West Kelowna for most of the 1st & 3rd periods.  The Warriors did get their chances and outplayed the Vipers in the 2nd period as Vernon was shorthanded most of the middle frame.  West Kelowna with some great chances couldnt solve Austin Smith who stole the show for the Vipers.  The Warriors just couldnt capitalize or burry their chances.  Just like Vernon I dont think Rylan Ferster will be happy with all the penalties his club took tonight.  Two quick late goals by the Vipers kinda sealed the game away other wise we may have had a better finish.

They didnt announce either teams scratches.

Here is a look at both teams rosters-lineups

Vernon:

Michael Statchuk
John Saunders
Brett Corkey
Geoff Crisfield
Marc Hetnik
Bryce Eviston
Craig Martin
Colton Sparrow
Riley Hunt
Logan Mick
Adam Tambellini
Landon Robin
Mike Roberts
Joe Serpico
Aaron Hadley
Mitch McAllister
Eric Chore
Kurt Hildebrand

Joe Young
Austin Smith

West Kelowna:

Alex Williams
Nicholas Gushue
Adam Plant
Josh Monk
Braxton Bilous
Jake Uglem
Brett McKinnon
Reid Simmonds
Stephen Hawes
Connor Bucsis
Max French
Branden Wagner
Braden Monk
Jagger Bowles
Marcus Basara
Brennan Clark
Colton Thibault
Kohl Bell

Cody Porter
Garrett Rockafellow

Here is a look at what the Vipers brand new away jerseys look like.  They are the exact same design as the Florida Panthers (last year) 3rd set jerseys but with the old-original Vipers logo on the front and the words Vernon Vipers around it.

I was told at tonight's game the Vipers are going with-keeping the same home jerseys from last season but are going to have brand new 3rd set jerseys.  I was told they look like the Florida Panthers home (red) jerseys. 

(Game Preview) Exhibition: Vernon @ West Kelowna:

Vernon (0-1-1-0) @ West Kelowna (0-0-1-0)

Tonight is the second and final game of a home and home series between the Vipers & Warriors after both teams are coming off a 3-3 tie last night in Vernon.  Tonight will be the Vipers first road game of the pre-season and the teams third game in four nights.  West Kelowna is playing their first home game and just second game of the exhibition season tonight.  No broadcast schedule over the internet or radio tonight as the game gets underway at 7pm from Royal Le Page Place.

Next Game:

Friday, August 31st Vernon @ Salmon Arm
Thursday, August 30th West Kelowna @ Penticton

Since the 2006-07 pre-season Vernon is 3-1-1 vs. West Kelowna

Since the 2006-07 regular seasonVernon is 19-15-2-3 vs. West Kelowna

Since the 2006-07 regular season Vernon has outscored West Kelowna 107-105

Since the 2006-07 regular season Vernon is 10-6-1-2 at home vs. West Kelowna

Since the 2006-07 regular season Vernon is 9-9-1-1 in West Kelowna

Since the 2008-09 regular season the Vipers are 7-1-1-1 in their last ten games vs. the Warriors

Since the 2008-09 regular season the Vipers are 5-4-0-1 in their last ten games vs. the Warriors at Royal Le Page Place

West Kelowna's last regular season victory at the Wesbild Centre was a 3-1 win on Saturday, January 23rd 2010

Vernon's last loss in West Kelowna was a 3-1 loss back on Saturday, March 3rd 2012

The Vipers went 5-0-3-0 last season vs the Warriors during the regular season

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:

Brett Corkey (92)

Marc Hetnik (92)

Geoff Crisfield (93)
Aaron Hadley (93)
Colton Sparrow (93)
Jedd Soleway (94)
Brendan Persley (93)
Danny Todosychuk (94)
Riley Hunt (95)
Ryan Renz (93)
Adam Tambellini (94)

Vernon Vipers Departing & traded players from last years team:

Michael Zalewski (92)
Darren Nowick (91)
John Knisley (92)
Colton Cyr (91)
Patrick McGillis (91)
Sean Robertson (91)
Ben Gamache (91)
Max Mowat (93)
Turner Lawson (94)
Kirby Halcrow (91)

Vernons Home record vs. West Kelowna last season:

4-0-0-0

Vernons Road record vs. West Kelowna last season:

1-3-0-0

Vernons Powerplay vs. West Kelowna last season:

7-35

Vernons scoring leaders vs. West Kelowna last season:

Michael Zalewski (6-1-7)
Adam Tambellini (3-3-6)
Patrick McGillis (2-3-5)
Darren Nowick (1-4-5)
Marc Hetnik (2-1-3)
Jedd Soleway (2-1-3)
Brett Corkey (0-3-3)
Aaron Hadley (1-2-3)
Colton Cyr (2-0-2)
Max Mowat (0-1-1)
Ryan Renz (0-1-1)
John Knisley (0-1-1)
Turner Lawson (0-1-1)
Geoff Crisfield (0-1-1)

Danny Todosychuk (1-1 Record, 1 Shutout)
Kirby Halcrow (4-3 Record)

West Kelowna Warriors Returning Players:

Marcus Basara (93)
Dustin Cave (94)
Brennan Clark (95)
Max French (92)
Devon Hascarl (93)
Shawn Hochhausen (92)
Seb Lloyd (94)
Brett McKinnon (92)
Josh Monk (92)
David Pope (94)
Reid Simmonds (93)

Former Vernon Lakers forward, Rylan Ferster is the head coach-gm of the Warriors

West Kelowna Warriors Departing & traded players from last years team:

Connor Dempsey (92)
Travis Blanleil (94)
Dru Morrison (92)
Peter MacIntosh (91)
Ben Betker (94)
Garrett Skrbich (93)
Curtis Toneff (93)
Matthew Berry-Lamontagna (93)
Dwayne Rodrigue (91)
James Leonard (93)

West Kelowna's Home record vs. Vernon last season:

3-2-0-0

West Kelowna's Road record vs. Vernon last season:

0-3-0-1

West Kelowna's Powerplay vs. Vernon last season:

5-39

West Kelowna's scoring leaders vs. Vernon last season:

Peter MacIntosh (0-5-5)
Max French (3-2-5)
Reid Simmonds (3-1-4)
Travis Blanleil (2-2-4)
Dru Morrison (0-3-3)
Ben Betker (0-3-3)
Connor Dempsey (3-0-3)
Brennan Clark (0-2-2)
David Pope (1-1-2)
Seb Lloyd (1-1-2)
Shawn Hochhausen (0-2-2)
Brett Mckinnon (1-1-2)
Devon Hascarl (1-1-2)
Marcus Basara (0-2-2)
Curtis Toneff (0-1-1)

Dwayne Rodrigue (3-2 Record)

For more on the West Kelowna Warriors and tonights game, visit Jon Zacks West Kelowna Warriors blog, http://thegeneralsreport.wordpress.com/

Exhibition: Vernon 3 West Kelowna 3

For anyone who could not attend or watch tonight’s Vipers game here are my thoughts and views from tonight’s game.  You may agree or disagree but we all have our own view and opinion on any game we watch.  This is my opinion and my thoughts on how I saw tonight’s game.  I try to be unbiased and give a fare recap on both sides.  Thanks for stopping by & visiting my blog.

I was at tonight's BCHL exhibition game as Vernon & West Kelowna ended up in a 3-3 tie at the Wesbild Centre tonight.

Starting Goaltenders:

Vernon:  Danny Todosychuk
West Kelowna:  Brenden Mills

1st Period:  The Vipers got off to a good start and carried the play early but didnt really have alot of pressure or create any real good scoring chances.  The Vipers come up with a few decent checks in the opening few minutes.  Vernon held posetion of the puck for most of the opening period.  It took the Warriors four and a half minutes to record their first shot on goal.  Vernon finally started to get their game going and started making some plays and creating a few decent chances.  Mitch McAllister with a nice move in close tried stuffing the puck fivehole through the pads of Brenden Mills but it was Mills who stood his ground making the tough save, McAllister stayed the with the play gathered up the rebound, come back around the net into the slot where he beat Mills with a shot from the slot but hit the post as the Vipers come close to opening the scoring.  West Kelowna would lose Brad Zarazun for ten minutes after the Warriors d-man took a ten minute misconduct.  Vernon then come close again to opening the scoring after Vipers captain Brett Corkey walked in from the point wiring a hard shot that beat Mills but hit the post.  Just minutes later Aaron Hadley who showed alot of jump and hustle tonight drove hard towards the net before a pile of players crowded the Warriors crease with some pushing and shoving but it was Hadley who come out of the scrum with a penalty giving West Kelowna there first powerplay of the night.  At this point the Vipers were outshooting the Warriors 9-2.  Veteran forward David Pope with a shot from the point beat Todosychuk but hit the post as the Warriors come close to opening the scoring.  Nick Josephs scooped up the rebound and just about got away with a shorthanded breakaway but it was David Pope who come up with the nice defensive play to tie up Josephs.  Todosychuk was forced to make a tough save after stopping a screened shot from the poit as the Warriors with a few shots on net were unable to capitalize with the man advantage.  Just after the penalty kill the Vipers with a nice breakout setup Joe Serpico who ripped a shot from the top of the circle but Brenden Mills made a nice blocker save.  The Warriors would open the scoring after Brent Lashuk's shot from the slot was stopped by Danny Todosychuk before Colton Thibault gobbled up the big rebound sliding the puck into the open cage giving West Kelowna a 1-0 lead at 15:24 Lashuk with the lone assist.  The Vipers would then get a late powerplay come close to tying the game after Geoff Crisfield's point shot at the end of the powerplay rang off the post as West Kelowna would kill off the minor.  The Vipers owned the 1st period outplaying the Warriors for most of the period but couldnt capitalize on their scoring chances as West Kelowna was up 1-0 after 20 minutes of play.  Vernon outshot West Kelowna 15-7.

2nd Period:  A much different Warriors team hit the ice for the middle frame as West Kelowna looked and played much better as both teams were very evenly matched this period.  Not alot of scoring chances in the first few minutes before the Warriors would get their second powerplay of the night.  Veteran Shawn Hochhausen got his stick on a point shot that looked to have went up and under the crossbar but the play stayed alive before Jetlan Houcher jumped on the rebound and beat Todosychuk giving West Kelowna a 2-0 lead with a powerplay goal at 7:12 Hochhausen and Brad Zarazun collected the helpers.  Just over a minute later the Vipers would get on the board after Bryce Eviston ripped a nice shot from the slot that beat Brenden Mills at 8:28 cutting the lead to within a goal.  Eviston's goal was unassisted.  Both teams then went back and forth getting a few good chances at either ends of the rink.  Shawn Hochhausen with a quick low shot looked to have caught Danny Todosychuk off guard as the Viper goaltender made the save but again gave up a rebound as the puck was just sitting in the crease before a Vernon d-man cleared the puck and the zone.  At the other end of the rink Landon Robin with a good chance in front was stopped by Mills.  Now just before the midway mark I noticed Cody Porter was between the pipes for West Kelowna.  I didnt notice or see when the two Warrior goaltenders switched as Brenden Mills wasnt on the bench for the Warriors for atleast five minutes before re-appearing.  With about eight minutes remaining in the 2nd former Swift Current Brocos goaltender Austin Smith replaced Danny Todosychuck who gave up two goals on thirteen Warrior shots.  Todosychuk seemed to have troubles with his rebounds most of the night giving up several big rebounds.  The Warriors tested Smith right away getting a few real nice chances but the veteran WHL goaltender stood tall.  Smith come across the crease in a hurry to make a big pad stop off Jetlan Houcher and then made a tough save off a screened point shot from Gen Bryshun.  Mitch McAllister who played with alot of jump getting several good chances was stopped in the second half after Cody Porter made a nice save.  Both Porter and Smith played very well this evening.  Riley Hunt then went hard towards the net and a second scrum of the night occured after several players jumped in as some pushing and shoving occured.  Austin Smith was forced to make another tough pad save off Shawn Hochhausen and then after West Kelowna made a nice long stretch pass setup Seb lloyd who snuck inbehind the Vernon defence getting a parcial breakaway but Smith stayed calm shutting the door on the veteran Warrior Lloyd.  Some good action and good scoring chances at both ends before the Vipers would tie the game late in the final minute of play.  Second yr defenceman Geoff Crisfield walked in from the point and with traffic in front ripped a nice goal shortside picking the corner tying the game 2-2 at 19:10 Crisfields goal was unassisted.  It was tied 2-2 after 40 minutes of play.  The Warriors looked and played much better in the 2nd as both teams were fairly even with chances at both ends of the rink.  Vernon outshot West Kelowna 14-12.

3rd Period:  Both teams got off to a bit of a slow start as it looked like both teams were waiting for the other team to make the first mistake.  Not alot of action or intensity in the first few minutes before the Warriors started to lay out a few good checks.  Pearce Eviston had a good chance from the circle but couldnt beat Porter.  Landon Robin in close was also stopped a few plays later.  Vernon would take the lead just before the midway mark after Nick Josephs went hard towards the goal through traffic alone the goaline to somehow getting the puck through bodies in front beating Cody Porter at 9:16 Mitch McAllister with the lone helper.  West Kelowna slowly started to come on and started forechecking the Vipers a little forcing Vernon into turning over the puck.  Austin Smith had to be alert and ready as West Kelowna come up with several good scoring chances.  Smith made a nice save off Seb lloyd from the point, also stopping Matt Anholt and then again making a big save off Shawn Hochhausen who was alone in front.  The Vipers who had troubles breaking out of their own end most of the 3rd looked to be going for the long stretch pass and the Warriors forecheckers were clogging up the neutral zone picking off the Vipers passes.  Nick Josephs with a great chance to put Vernon up by two beat Porter but rang his shot off the crossbar as the Vipers 4th post-crossbar of the game.  West Kelowna turned up the pressure and really took over the edge in play for the last six or seven minutes as the Vipers couldnt get out of their own end.  The Warriors hard work paid off Riley Hunt couldnt handle his pass Dakota Kittle picked up the loose puck, setup Dennon Leibel who ripped a high shot upstairs beating Austin Smith with a nice shot tying the game three all at 17:39 Kittle and Dustin Cave picked up the assists.  In the dying seconds the Warriors deep in the Vernon zone got a quick shot that either hit Smiths pads or the outside of the post before the Warriors banged in the loose puck past Smith just a second or two late as the buzzer went to end the 3rd period and the green goal light was on as West Kelowna just about stole one in the dying seconds.  The game would end in a tie with no overtime.  Both teams were fairly even in the first half but it was the Warriors who stepped up their play and were the better of the two teams in the second half of the 3rd.  West Kelowna outshot Vernon 13-11. 

Top Players:  (Vernon)

Brett Corkey played his first game of the pre-season and I thought was the Vipers best d-man tonight.  Played very well at both ends of the rink, jumped up into the play and played well on the blueline.

Landon Robin played fairly well tonight.  I didnt noticed him at all in Saturday's game vs Wenatchee but he had a few scoring chances and seemed to get involved in the play.

Aaron Hadley I thought played with alot of jump and hustled most of the night.

Mitch McAllister (1 assist)  Looked very good up front for the Vipers.  Had several good scoring chances, quick on his feet and was buzzing in and around the net.  Showed alot of hustle and never quit battling.

Pearce Eviston has some size and hockey scence, played fairly well in his Vipers debut tonight.

Nick Josephs (1 goal)  Looked good in the scrimmage game Friday night at the Vipers Training camp and I thought played very well tonight in his second pre-season game.  Played well on the backend and jumped up into the play scoring his first pre-season goal.  This kid may have some potential.

Austin Smith (19 saves)  The Vipers goaltending didnt look that great in the 9-5 loss to Wenatchee Saturday night.  Austin Smith who was with the WHL Swift Current Broncos last year was very solid between the pipes for the Vipers.  Giving up one goal on 19 West Kelowna shots the 19 yr old played very well and looked very calm and confident between the pipes.  Made a few tough saves early when first coming into the game just past the midway mark in the 2nd period and then made a few big saves in the 3rd.

Game Thoughts:  (Vernon)

The Vipers dressed 12 new faces in the lineup tonight after falling to 0-1-1 in pre-season action in a game wich I thought was pretty good.  Vernon outplayed West Kelowna in the opening period hitting three posts and getting some good chances but found themselfs down 1-0.  The Vipers could have easily been up three or four goals after the 1st period.  Vernon needed to capitalize on their chances.  I thought both teams were more even in the 2nd and third until the Vipers had troubles breaking out of their own end in the 3rd.  I think the Vipers have some good talent in camp-exhibition and will have some tough final cuts to make before the start of the regular season.  I do like the mix of this team so far and think the team is slowly coming together.  The Vipers didnt take alot of penalties and played good for atleast 45-50 minutes of tonights game.  This is still the pre-season, kids are in and out of the lineup, playing with new linemates each game and adjusting to new coaches, plays etc.  I was a little dissapointed there wasnt any overtime tonight.  I was looking forward to the extra period or two.  I heard on the radio today the Vipers made some cuts.  They didnt say who was cut but had 14 scratches for Saturdays game while down to eight scratches for tonights game.

Top Players:  (West Kelowna)

Seb Lloyd was one of the Warriors better players tonight.  Had a few good scoring chances, was stopped on a parcial breakaway late in the 2nd period. 

Nicholas Gushue played fairly steady on the blueline.

David Pope impressed me up front for West Kelowna.  Had a chance to open the scoring in the first after hitting the post.  Played well at both ends of the rink.

Shawn Hochhausen (1 assist) Was probally the Warriors best player tonight, had several good scoring chances.  Looked very good all night.

Jetlan Houcher (1 goal)  I thought played fairly well up front for West Kelowna.  Had atleast two good scoring chances.

Cody Porter I thought played very well between the pipes for the Warriors.  Made a few nice saves through out the game.

Game Thoughts:  (West Kelowna)

The Warriors played their first exhibition game of 2012-13 tonight dressing a younger lineup with 14 scratches in the stands.  I thought the younger-inexperienced roster showed in the opening period but give West Kelowna and their young group of kids credit they took a 1-0 lead after the 1st period after being outplayed and then didnt quit, they turned things around in the middle frame and played much better hockey in the 2nd and 3rd periods.  I thought there goaltending played well as did there forecheck.  Both teams had some good scoring chances in a pretty entertaining hockey game.  Going up 2-0 before falling behind 3-2 on the road is tough but they kept battling and working hard tying the game late after some hard work and forcing the Vipers into a few turnovers.  The Warriors have a few younger kids that played very well tonight.  Im sure Rylan Ferster will be happy with periods two and three and his clubs effort in there first pre-season game.  No rest for either team as Vernon now travels up the highway to West Kelowna for a rematch tomorrow night.  The Warriors will be playing back to back games while the Vipers will be playing their third game in four nights. 

They didnt announce either teams scratches.

Here is a look at both teams lineups-rosters

Vernon:

Brett Corkey
Kevin Guiltinan
John Saunders
Riley Hunt
Landon Robin
TJ Dumonceaux
Aaron Hadley
Craig Martin
Mitch McAllister
Logan Mick
Pearce Eviston
Adam Fauchoux
Michael Roberts
Joe Serpico
Bryce Eviston
Geoff Crisfield
Nick Josephs
Ryan Renz

Danny Todosychuk
Austin Smith

West Kelowna:

Gen Bryshun
Nicholas Gushue
Seb Lloyd
Philip Siutz
Jake Uglem
David Pope
Dennon Leibel
Dakota Kittle
Colton Thibault
Devon Hascarl
Aidan Crowther
Shawn Hochhausen
Brent Lashuk
Matt Anholt
Dustin Cave
Connor Bucsis
Brad Zarazun
Jetlan Houcher

Brenden Mills
Cody Porter

  

(Game Preview) Exhibition: West Kelowna @ Vernon:

West Kelowna (0-0-0-0) @ Vernon (0-1-0-0)

Tonight is the first pre-season matchup of the year between the Vipers & Warriors.  The Vipers are playing game two of the pre-season coming off a 9-5 loss Saturday night at home to the NAHL Wenatchee Wild.  The Warriors who wrapped up Training camp this past week are playing there first exhibition game of 2012-13.  No broadcast schedule over the internet or radio tonight as the game gets underway at 7pm

Next Game:

Tuesday, August 28th Vernon @ West Kelowna

Since the 2006-07 pre-season Vernon is 3-1 vs. West Kelowna

Since the 2006-07 regular seasonVernon is 19-15-2-3 vs. West Kelowna

Since the 2006-07 regular season Vernon has outscored West Kelowna 107-105

Since the 2006-07 regular season Vernon is 10-6-1-2 at home vs. West Kelowna

Since the 2006-07 regular season Vernon is 9-9-1-1 in West Kelowna

Since the 2008-09 regular season the Vipers are 7-1-1-1 in their last ten games vs. the Warriors

Since the 2008-09 regular season the Vipers are 5-4-0-1 in their last ten games vs. the Warriors at Royal Le Page Place

West Kelowna's last regular season victory at the Wesbild Centre was a 3-1 win on Saturday, January 23rd 2010

Vernon's last loss in West Kelowna was a 3-1 loss back on Saturday, March 3rd 2012

The Vipers went 5-0-3-0 last season vs the Warriors during the regular season

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:

Brett Corkey (92)

Marc Hetnik (92)

Geoff Crisfield (93)
Aaron Hadley (93)
Colton Sparrow (93)
Jedd Soleway (94)
Brendan Persley (93)
Danny Todosychuk (94)
Riley Hunt (95)
Ryan Renz (93)
Adam Tambellini (94)

Vernon Vipers Departing & traded players from last years team:

Michael Zalewski (92)
Darren Nowick (91)
John Knisley (92)
Colton Cyr (91)
Patrick McGillis (91)
Sean Robertson (91)
Ben Gamache (91)
Max Mowat (93)
Turner Lawson (94)
Kirby Halcrow (91)

Vernons Home record vs. West Kelowna last season:

4-0-0-0

Vernons Road record vs. West Kelowna last season:

1-3-0-0

Vernons Powerplay vs. West Kelowna last season:

7-35

Vernons scoring leaders vs. West Kelowna  last season:

Michael Zalewski (6-1-7)
Adam Tambellini (3-3-6)
Patrick McGillis (2-3-5)
Darren Nowick (1-4-5)
Marc Hetnik (2-1-3)
Jedd Soleway (2-1-3)
Brett Corkey (0-3-3)
Aaron Hadley (1-2-3)
Colton Cyr (2-0-2)
Max Mowat (0-1-1)
Ryan Renz (0-1-1)
John Knisley (0-1-1)
Turner Lawson (0-1-1)
Geoff Crisfield (0-1-1)

Danny Todosychuk (1-1 Record, 1 Shutout)
Kirby Halcrow (4-3 Record)

West Kelowna Warriors Returning Players:

Marcus Basara (93)
Dustin Cave (94)
Brennan Clark (95)
Max French (92)
Devon Hascarl (93)
Shawn Hochhausen (92)
Seb Lloyd (94)
Brett McKinnon (92)
Josh Monk (92)
David Pope (94)
Reid Simmonds (93)

Former Vernon Lakers forward, Rylan Ferster is the head coach-gm of the Warriors

West Kelowna Warriors Departing & traded players from last years team:

Connor Dempsey (92)
Travis Blanleil (94)
Dru Morrison (92)
Peter MacIntosh (91)
Ben Betker (94)
Garrett Skrbich (93)
Curtis Toneff (93)
Matthew Berry-Lamontagna (93)
Dwayne Rodrigue (91)
James Leonard (93)

West Kelowna's Home record vs. Vernon last season:

3-2-0-0

West Kelowna's Road record vs. Vernon last season:

0-3-0-1

West Kelowna's Powerplay vs. Vernon last season:

5-39

West Kelowna's scoring leaders vs. Vernon last season:

Peter MacIntosh (0-5-5)
Max French (3-2-5)
Reid Simmonds (3-1-4)
Travis Blanleil (2-2-4)
Dru Morrison (0-3-3)
Ben Betker (0-3-3)
Connor Dempsey (3-0-3)
Brennan Clark (0-2-2)
David Pope (1-1-2)
Seb Lloyd (1-1-2)
Shawn Hochhausen (0-2-2)
Brett Mckinnon (1-1-2)
Devon Hascarl (1-1-2)
Marcus Basara (0-2-2)
Curtis Toneff (0-1-1)

Dwayne Rodrigue (3-2 Record)

For more on the West Kelowna Warriors and tonights game, visit Jon Zacks new Westside Warriors blog, http://thegeneralsreport.wordpress.com/

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

Friday, September 30th Vernon @ West Kelowna: Vipers win 5-2

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxscores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=977747

Wednesday, October 5th West Kelowna @ Vernon: Vipers win 2-0

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxscores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=977810

Tuesday, November 8th West Kelowna @ Vernon: Vipers won 2-1

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxscores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=977814&link=bchl

Friday, December 9th Vernon @ West Kelowna: Warriors won 5-2

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxscores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=977761&link=bchl

Saturday, January 21st Vernon @ West Kelowna: Warriors won 3-1

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxscores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=977765&link=bchl

Friday, January 27th West Kelowna @ Vernon: Vipers won 4-1

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxscores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=977828&link=bchl

Saturday, February 18th West Kelowna @ Vernon: Vipers won 3-2 in double overtime

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxscores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=977833&link=bchl

Saturday, March 3rd Vernon @ West Kelowna:  Warriors won 3-1

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxscores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=977773

New Rule Changes For 2012-2013

This is posted on a few of the BCHL team blogs around the league.

The BCHL has sent around a summary of the major rule changes for the upcoming season. Other minor adjustments were made, however below are the bigger ones.

New Rule Changes for 2012-2013

1. No Change Icing

No line change will be permitted for the offending team icing the puck.  The offending team will not be permitted make a line change even if they call their 30 second time out (this includes the Sponsor Time Out).  The non offending team will be permitted to make a line change within the five second time limit allowed during the referee’s normal line change procedure.

2. Puck Shot Out of Bounds

No line change will be permitted for the offending team of a player who shoots the puck directly out of the playing surface over the glass while in his own defensive end zone.  It will be the position of the puck that determines what zone the puck was shot from. For example a player can have his skates in the neutral zone and the puck can be shot from his defensive zone or visa versa.

This rule does not appy if the puck leaves the playing surface after deflecting off another player (attacking or defending) or deflects off the glass or if the puck leaves the playing surface where there is no glass (i.e. into the players’ bench).  If the puck leaves the playing surface at the bench area and clears the glass behind the bench the rule shall apply and no line change shall be permitted.

If a goaltender shoots the puck over the glass it is still an automatic minor penalty for Delay of Game under Rule 10.1(a) of the Hockey Canada Rule Book. In this case the team will be allowed to make a line change because it affects the numerical on-ice strength of that team.

3.  Icing the Puck

This is a new Hockey Canada rule for Junior/Senior hockey relating to the goaltender leaving his crease during an icing. The rule states that if a goaltender leaves his crease to potentially play the puck but then intentionally does not play the puck then the icing is to be waved off. If a goaltender causes significant interference on a player attempting to play the puck on an icing then a minor penalty is to be assessed.

The basic reasoning behind this rule is to prevent a goalie from making an attacking player let up on chasing a puck during an icing because the goalie appears he is going to play the puck, but then lets the puck continue for icing.

It does not mean that a goalie can’t leave his crease or move during an icing, just that he can’t make an attacking player believe he is going to play the puck then still allow the puck to continue over the goal line for an icing call.