AIK Signs Former Viper Forward Beech:

Allmänna Idrottsklubben Ishockeyförening (abbreviated AIK) have signed former Vernon Vipers forward Kristopher Beech.  AIK Hockey is the ice hockey section of the sports club Allmänna Idrottsklubben based in Stockholm, Sweden.  In 13 games since signing with AIK Beech has collected (2-0-2). 

Beech left the HC Pardubice hockey team back on November, 16th 2012. HC Pardubice is a professional hockey team in Czech Extraliga. Beech was in his first season with HC Pardubice. In 21 games Beech recorded (2-6-8). Beech played last season in Finland with Lukko Rauma. In 59 games Beech collected (15-20-35). Beech played parts of the 1996-1997 season with the Vernon Vipers before leaving the team during the season for the WHL Calgary Hitmen. Beech was drafted by the Washington Capitals In Round 1 #7 overall at the 1999 NHL Entry Draft.

Kristopher Beech's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=8429

This is posted on the AIK website:

Crisis Beech clear for Reed Elsevier

published: 2012-12

After the match against Färjestad sports editor Anders Gozzi, announced that it acquired Canadian Crisis Beech, 31, in a match-to-match-contract.
The crisis is a good choice with good spelförståelse tvåvägscenter which will be able to help with both routine and skill to our now very young team, says the business has an annual Gozzi.

Reed Elsevier has now eight regular players set on skadelistan. It will throw up hard on team and therefore forced to now sports editor Anders Gozzi troupe to broaden.
Canadian Crisis Beech, as earlier lirat in elitserien and HV71, connect to team on Wednesday.

"We are very pleased that we could find this solution.

We have many injuries and need to broaden your. Crisis is a good choice with good spelförståelse tvåvägscenter which will be able to help with both routine and skill to our now very young teams, says sports editor.

The Center Party Beech, which has both NHL games and SM-gold on His qualifications, played last in Pardubice in the Czech league. His contract with Reed Elsevier comes from match to match.

Former Vernon Viper Noonan Going Through Rough Patch:

Here is a write up on former Vernon Vipers defenceman Garrett Noonan. Noonan is in his third season at Boston University, in 21 games this season Noonan has (4-11-15). Noonan was named to the 2012-2013 Preseason All-American Team this year. Noonan was drafted by the Nashville Predators in round 4 #112 overall in the 2011 NHL Entry Draft. Noonan played one season in Vernon (2009-2010) collecting (2-16-18) in 58 regular season games with the Vipers.

Garrett Noonan's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=48219

This is posted in the Boston University Daily Free Press Student Newspaper:

Noonan going through rough patch

Written by Tim Healey

Published Jan 22, 2013

On Jan. 10, in the midst of a rough stretch in which the No. 11 Boston University men’s hockey team is still mired, junior assistant captain Garrett Noonan walked into the small coaches’ room for a post-practice, one-on-one meeting with BU coach Jack Parker. Noonan looked nervous.

“He had nothing to be nervous about,” Parker said immediately after the meeting, which came one day after BU (12–9, 9–6 Hockey East) blew a three-goal lead to Harvard University before losing in overtime. “He has a lot of equity in his account. All that good playing from last year and all that great defense from first semester.

“But he’s certainly struggling a little bit,” Parker added.

Two weekends later, the Terriers are still stuck in a slump, most recently losing back-to-back games to Northeastern University Friday and then-No. 15/18 University of Massachusetts-Lowell the next day.

Parker said after Saturday’s 4–3 loss to the River Hawks (13–7–1, 7–6–1 Hockey East) Noonan has been playing better of late, but it was in part his misguided actions late in the game — a five-minute major spearing penalty and game-disqualification — that killed the Terriers’ comeback attempt.

The then-No. 9 Terriers had scored twice in the third to draw within one goal. But after Noonan was ejected 14:13 into the period, BU spent most of that time on the penalty kill.

“I haven’t seen that from him in a while,” Parker said of Noonan letting his emotions get the best of him. “Saw some of that last year once in a while. We’ll figure that out.”

However, Parker didn’t offer any answers as to how, exactly, the team will “figure that out,” and Noonan loosing his cool is not necessarily anything new.

Against Denver on Dec. 29 — BU’s first game after its break, and the first game in this slide — Noonan repeatedly crosschecked a Pioneer late in the game before tag teaming him with junior defenseman Patrick MacGregor. Noonan got away without a penalty, but his frustration boiling over was evident with him playing the body and not the puck.

Friday vs. Northeastern, after BU scored three in a row only to see the Huskies reclaim a 6–5 lead, Noonan capped off the game with a five-minute slashing penalty with four seconds left.

The defenseman followed that up with an embellishment minor — a penalty that Parker abhors — before his spear Saturday.

“There’s no place for it,” said UMass-Lowell coach Norm Bazin of the spear. “And I don’t know why you would take a penalty like that in that juncture of the game.”

Although Parker said Noonan has been “terrific” leadership-wise since being appointed assistant captain at the end of the fall semester, Noonan has admitted to being frustrated with his own performance.

Noonan made a big splash in his sophomore campaign by netting 16 goals, tying him for second on the team, but this year the tallies have not come nearly as easily. Last year’s familiar sight of Noonan flying down the wing to bang home a rebound or cross-slot pass has been much less common this time around, taking away a big part of the offensive defenseman’s game.

Noonan and the Terriers will likely straighten themselves out, particularly with a relatively weak second-half schedule. Noonan has already matched his assist total from last year (11), and with 14 games remaining in BU’s regular season, the Norfolk native has time to make up ground.

That number will be 13 at most for Noonan, though, who will have to sit out as a result of his game-disqualification when his team visits Providence College Friday.

As if anticipating Saturday, a somber Noonan sung a familiar song after Friday’s loss.

“We will be better,” Noonan said. “This team trusts each other and we are going to bounce back and everyone in that room believes.”

Monsters Return Former Viper Bishop To ECHL:

The AHL Lake Erie Monsters have returned former Vernon Vipers forward Hunter Bishop to the ECHL South Carolina Stingrays.  The Stingrays loaned Bishop to the Monsters on January, 8th before returning to South Carolina on January, 18th.  Bishop went pointless in three games with the Monsters. 

Bishop is in his first season in the ECHL after signing with South Carolina on October, 1st 2012. In 40 games this season with South Carolina Bishop has collected (19-20-39). Bishop played parts of the last three years with the ECHL Wheeling Nailers & the AHL Hamilton Bulldogs before missing the entire 2011-12 season with an undisclosed injury. Bishop played parts of three seasons in Vernon (2005-2008). Bishop left Vernon after two seasons and played in just four games at the University of North Dakota during the 2006-07 season before returning to Vernon during the Christmas break playing the remainder of the 2006-07 season playing his final season with the Vipers (2007-2008) before playing the next two years at Ohio State University. In 140 regular season games with the Vipers Bishop collected (93-84-177). On March. 18th 2010 the Montreal Canadiens signed Bishop as a free agent to a two year contract. Bishop attended the Habs training camp the last three seasons before being sent down to the American Hockey League's Hamilton Bulldogs.

Hunter Bishop's Player Profile:

http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=80970

This is posted on the Stingrays website:

Hunter Bishop Returns to Stingrays

South Carolina Stingrays Press Release

Published on January 18, 2013

North Charleston, SC – The South Carolina Stingrays, celebrating 20 seasons of hockey in the Lowcountry and proud ECHL affiliate of the Boston Bruins of the National Hockey League (NHL), announced today that forward Hunter Bishop has returned to the team from the Lake Erie Monsters of the American Hockey League (AHL).

Bishop, 25, appeared in three games with the Monsters earning no points. The Fairbanks, Alaska native is second on the Stingrays with 31 points (15 goals, 16 assists) in 35 games. Missing last season due to injury, Bishop competed in 34 AHL contests with the Hamilton Bulldogs in 2010-11 grabbing four goals and four assists for eight points. Prior to turning pro, Bishop attended Ohio State University for two seasons (2008-10) and skated in four games with the University of North Dakota in 2006-07 totaling 59 points (29 goals, 30 assists) in 79 games.

Former Vernon Viper Collins Named Hockey East Co-Player Of The Week:

Former Vernon Vipers forward Mike Collins scored twice and added one assist in Merrimacks 3-2 win over New Hampshire. Collins is one of seventy seven players up for this years Hobey Baker Award. The Hobey Baker Award is an annual award given to the top National Collegiate Athletic Association men's ice hockey player. Collins is in his third season at Merrimack College. In 25 games this season Collins has (13-17-30). Collins played two season's in Vernon (2008-2010) In 119 regular season games with the Vipers Collins recorded (55-71-126)

Mike Collins Player Profile:

http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=122117

This is posted on the Warriors website:

Mike Collins Named Hockey East Co-Player Of The Week

January 28, 2013

NORTH ANDOVER, MA – Junior forward Mike Collins (Boston, MA) was named Hockey East Co-Player of the Week Monday. Collins will share the award with Jon Swavely of Maine.

Collins led the Warriors on Friday night to the 3-2 victory over #4 UNH with two goals, an assist and a +2 rating, his fifth three-point game of the season. On Saturday vs. #4 UNH at the Verizon Wireless Arena, Collins was held off the score sheet for only the eighth time in 25 games.

The junior has nine points in his last five conference games and has racked up a team-high 25 points in 16 conference matchups. His 1.56 points per game in conference play is tops in Hockey East.

Merrimack (10-10-5, 8-6-2 HEA) will return home on Friday to take on the #12/13 UMass Lowell RiverHawks at 7:00 p.m. The game will be aired live on NESN. Limited tickets are still available and can be purchased online at www.merrimackathletics.com or by calling the box office at 978-837-5324.

Penguins Assign Former Viper Zurevinski To ECHL:

The AHL Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins have assigned former Vernon Vipers forward Scott Zurevinski to the ECHL Wheeling Nailers.   Zurevinski signed with the Penguins in early August but never played a game before the season started being sent down to the East Coast Hockey League.  In 40 games this season with the Nailers Zurevinski has (10-7-17).  Zurevinski finished his fourth year at Quinnipiac University last year before signing a amateur tryout contract with the AHL St. John’s IceCaps back on March, 18th 2012. Zurevinski played in eight games with the IceCaps before being released. Zurevinski played two years in Vernon (2006-2008). In 96 regular season games with the Vipers, Zurevinski collected (47-47-94). Zurevinski attended the Pittsburgh Penguins 2011 development camp.

Scott Zurevinski's Player Profile:

http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=93311

This is posted on the Nailers website:

News and Releases

Nailers Receive 8 Players From Affiliates

October 9th, 2012 | Press Release

WHEELING, WV- The Wheeling Nailers, proud ECHL affiliate of the Pittsburgh Penguins and Montreal Canadiens, have announced a series of roster moves, effective immediately. The Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins have assigned seven players to Wheeling - goaltender Patrick Killeen, defenseman Reid McNeill, and forwards Cody Chupp, Tom Kuhnhackl, Adam Payerl, Dominik Uher, and Scott Zurevinski. In a separate transaction, the Hamilton Bulldogs assigned forward Philippe Lefebvre to the Nailers.

 Killeen, 22, returns for his third full season with the Nailers, after teaming with Peter Delmas, in leading the club to back-to-back postseason appearances. Patrick's journey to the pros began with the OHL's Brampton Battalion, where he spent parts of four seasons, ultimately leading to his selection in the 2008 NHL Entry Draft by the Penguins. While with the Battalion, Killeen appeared in 139 games, going 63-48-17. In 76 career games with the Nailers, the Carp, ON native has posted a 38-28-6 mark, while also earning the opportunity to play in seven games with the AHL's Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins, where he has a 2-2 record.

McNeill, 20, will be making his professional debut this season, after spending each of the last three seasons in the Ontario Hockey League. Reid made his way into the organization in 2010, when the Penguins selected him in the sixth round (170th overall) of the NHL Entry Draft. The London, ON native played two seasons for his hometown London Knights, and one season with the Barrie Colts, totaling seven goals, 16 assists, 23 points, and 162 penalty minutes in 166 games.

Chupp, 27, is entering his second season in the Penguins' organization, after splitting the 2011-12 campaign between Wilkes-Barre/Scranton and Wheeling. Prior to turning pro, Cody spent one season in the NAHL and two in the USHL, on his way to attending Ferris State University for four years, where he majored in Elementary Education. In 144 games with his hometown Bulldogs, the Big Rapids, MI native tallied 35 goals, 60 assists, and 95 points. Following graduation, Chupp joined the AHL's Texas Stars, where he notched five goals and 15 points in 67 games over parts of two seasons. Last season with Wheeling, Cody appeared in 43 contests, racking up 17 goals, 17 assists, and 34 points.

Kuhnhackl, 20, will be making his professional debut this season, after spending each of the last two seasons in the Ontario Hockey League. Tom made his way into the organization in 2010, when the Penguins selected him in the fourth round (110th overall) of the NHL Entry Draft. The Landshut, Germany native made his debut in North America in 2010, when he joined the Windsor Spitfires. In 63 games that winter, Kuhnhackl put up 39 goals, 29 assists, and 68 points. In 97 career OHL games with Windsor and the Niagara IceDogs, Tom finished with totals of 47 goals, 40 assists, and 87 points.

Payerl, 21, had a brief introduction to professional hockey last spring, when he dished out one assist in two games with the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins. Prior to signing with the club, Adam spent five seasons in the Ontario Hockey League, playing with the Barrie Colts and Belleville Bulls. Over the course of those five seasons, the Kitchener, ON native appeared in 306 games, amassing 60 goals, 83 assists, and 143 points. Payerl's most productive season was 2011-12 with Bulls, when he had 22 goals and 47 points.

Uher, 19, will be making his professional debut this season, after spending each of the last three seasons with the Western Hockey League's Spokane Chiefs. Dominik made his way into the organization in 2011, when the Penguins selected him in the fifth round (144th overall) of the NHL Entry Draft. The Frydek-Mistek, Czech Republic native appeared in 181 games with the Chiefs, accumulating 58 goals, 86 assists, and 144 points. Uher's most productive season came in 2011-12, when he produced 33 goals and 68 points.

Zurevinski, 24, had a brief introduction to professional hockey last spring, when he appeared in eight regular season games with the AHL's St. John's IceCaps. Prior to turning pro, Scott spent two seasons with the BCHL's Vernon Vipers, on his way to attending Quinnipiac University for four years, where appeared in 155 games, recording 46 goals, 46 assists, and 92 points. The Saskatoon, SK native's most productive season was his sophomore campaign, when he had 16 goals and 30 points.

Lefebvre, 21, made his professional debut last season, when he played in 69 games with the Hamilton Bulldogs. Prior to turning pro, Philippe spent four seasons in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League, with the Drummondville Voltigeurs and Montreal Junior. During his four year junior career, the Trois-Rivieres, QC native appeared in 256 games, registering 76 goals, 98 assists, and 174 points, while also winning a President's Cup in 2009, under the tutelage of current Tampa Bay Lightning head coach Guy Boucher. In 2011-12 with the Bulldogs, Lefebvre potted five goals, six assists, and 11 points.

The Nailers and Cincinnati Cyclones will open the season at US Bank Arena on Saturday night, with face-off scheduled for 7:35. Wheeling will open the season with four straight road games, before returning home on October 26th, for the first of two games against the Reading Royals.  Nailers 2012-13 Ticket Packages are on sale now. Packages start at just $7.50 per game. Call 304-234-GOAL or wheelingnailers.com for more information.

Terriers Dealing With Former Viper Garrett Noonan's Suspension:

Former Vernon Vipers defenceman Garrett Noonan has been suspended two games.  Here is an article on the suspension. Noonan is in his third season at Boston University, in 21 games this season Noonan has (4-11-15). Noonan was named to the 2012-2013 Preseason All-American Team this year. Noonan was drafted by the Nashville Predators in round 4 #112 overall in the 2011 NHL Entry Draft. Noonan played one season in Vernon (2009-2010) collecting (2-16-18) in 58 regular season games with the Vipers.

Garrett Noonan's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=48219

This is posted on the WTBU Radio website:

M Hockey: Dealing With Spearing and Other Penalties

Posted on January 25, 2013

by Jashvina Shah/Staff Beat Reporter

Even before Hockey East decided it would suspend Boston University men’s hockey defenseman Garrett Noonan another game for his spear on UMass-Lowell’s Doug Carr, coach Jack Parker had already called the 21-year-old into his office.

“I asked him what he thought I was going to do and his first response was, ‘I don’t know. Whatever you do, I deserve it,’ “ Parker said.

“And then he said, ‘But I would imagine I’m going to get a second game.’ And I said, ‘Why would you say that?’ ‘Because that’s what you did to [Alexx] Privitera.’ “

After calling Noonan into his office, Parker said he called UMass-Lowell coach Norm Bazin to apologize and inform him of Noonan’s additional suspension. It was during that conversation that Bazin mentioned Noonan and Carr were from the same area.

“Then I thought to myself, maybe they have history here. Maybe they got into street fights when they were kids,” Parker said.

“So I got off the phone and I called Garrett and said, ‘I got to ask you something. You know that kid, Carr very well?’ ‘Oh yeah we’re from the same area. He’s a good buddy of mine.’ I said, ‘Did you have a history with him?’ ‘No. We’re buddies. He sold it, you know.’ ”

Not long after that conversation, Parker found out about Hockey East’s decision to also suspend Noonan for an additional game. The veteran coach then called Dan Schachte, Hockey East’s coordinator of officials,

“He sees me calling, he thinks I’m going to be mad so he says, ‘Jack I was waiting for your call,’ “ Parker said. “I said, ‘Well I just want to make one comment to you.’ He said, ‘What’s that?’ I said, ‘Great minds think along the same track.’ “

For his spear, Noonan was handed a five-minute major and a game disqualification in last Saturday’s loss to UMass-Lowell.

Schachte and Parker’s decision means Noonan will miss both games of BU’s home-and-home weekend series against Providence, a team tied with the Terriers (12-9-0, 9-6-0 HEA) in the standings with 18 points.

“It’s good that both of us did it. It lets my guys know that I’m not going to stand for that, it also lets the other teams know the league isn’t going to stand for that,” Parker said.

Noonan, who was named an assistant captain during the midseason break, is tied for scoring by Hockey East defenseman. Parker said he thinks the Norfolk, Mass. native played better in the first half of the season than he did last year.

“I think Garrett Noonan is a great kid. I think Garrett Noonan wants to win as much as anybody in that dressing room. I think Garrett Noonan is teed off he’s missing two games and he knows it’s his fault,” Parker said.

“So I think it’ll do it. I think more importantly than anything else I think he knows he hurt his team. Then and this weekend too. And he doesn’t want to do that.”

After speaking to Parker, Noonan addressed his teammates and apologized to them.

“He apologized in front of the whole team, because we really do need him in the lineup. It’s sad not to have him for two games so we’re going to be hurting back there a little bit, but luckily we got enough guys to step up and fill in for him when he’s out,” assistant captain Ryan Ruikka said.

“I think it was a little bit hard for him but he manned up to it and did what he needed to do and guys respect that.”

The Terriers have dealt with some unwise penalties this season, and earlier defenseman Alexx Privitera was suspended two games after kicking someone while BU was in Denver.

“Coach has implemented some stuff to get us not to take dumb penalties and stick penalties and stuff so we’ve been working that,” Ruikka said. “I think we kind of slipped away from it here and we beat ourselves in these last few games and it’s cost us.”

Parker has been punishing stupid penalties — what Ruikka referred to as all stick penalties — by making players hit the bike for 20 miles.

“[They’re] not fun,” Ruikka said.

“Obviously there’s a high stick and that’s an accident and stuff but it’s up to his discretion. So if it’s a dumb penalty you can tell, there’s video review and he can watch that so he knows.”

Off The Ice With Former Viper Dean Strong:

Here is a closeup look at former Vernon Vipers forward Dean Strong. Strong is in his second season with the AHL Lake Erie Monsters. Strong started this season with the Monsters before being assigned to the CHL Denver Cutthroats on December, 6th playing in three games picking up one goal before being sent back to Lake Erie on December, 13th. In twenty three games with Lake Erie this season Strong has (4-7-11).

Strong played last season with the ECHL Kalamazoo Wings, AHL Chicago Wolves and the AHL Lake Erie Monsters. Strong started the 2011-12 season with the ECHL Kalamazoo Wings. In November 2011 Strong was loaned to the AHL Chicago Wolves. In five games with the Wolves Strong collected (0-3-3) before returning to Kalamazoo. On December 15th 2011 Strong was loaned to the AHL Lake Erie Monsters where he would finish the season. In 49 games with the Monsters Strong collected (4-10-14). Strong returned to Kalamazoo after the Monsters missed the playoffs where he finished the remainder of the season. In 21 games with the Wings Strong collected (11-12-23). Strong played one year in Vernon (2004-05) collecting (35-56-91) with the Vipers.

Dean Strong's Player Profile:

http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=83858

This is posted on Cleveland.com website:

OFF THE ICE WITH . . . Lake Erie Monsters forward Dean Strong

By Dennis Manoloff, The Plain Dealer

January 24, 2013

Shoots: Right. Born: July 17, 1985, Mississauga, Ontario.

College: Vermont.

PD: You played for a team in Germany for 25 games in 2010-11. Summarize the experience.

DS: I had an injury that forced me to come home early. Other than that, it was fine. I really enjoyed the culture.

PD: Favorite food/drink when in Germany?

DS: Spatzle and Gluhwein.

PD: What is Gluhwein?

DS: A festive drink. It's like hot wine, with some other stuff in there. Tastes great.

PD: Was hockey always your favorite sport?

DS: I didn't really choose until the end of high school. I also played soccer, football and wrestled. And I golfed in the summer.

PD: What positions in football?

DS: Middle linebacker and kicker. I don't even know if I made one field goal, we were so bad.

PD: When did you think you could make a living playing hockey?

DS: Honestly, I didn't think I'd be doing anything with any sport. But if there was one, it was going to be hockey.

PD: Why would you have that mind-set?

DS: I have no idea. I never was a superstar, I just enjoyed playing.

PD: What is it like to play for Monsters coach Dean Chynoweth?

DS: That's a dangerous question, so I'll put together a political answer. He's knowledgeable about the game and great with the players. The guys respect him.

PD: Preferred activities away from ice?

DS: Lots of couch time. Going out for dinner -- even though that doesn't happen very often. I wish I were more exciting.

PD: Favorite athlete?

DS: Tiger Woods.

PD: Super Bowl pick/why?

DS: 49ers. [Colin] Kaepernick has nothing but energy. I think he will propel them through it.

PD: What is one thing about you that even your friends might not know?

DS: When I was 3 or 4, I stuck my right hand into a stationary bike and cut three of my fingers badly. They were able to sew them back on.

PD: Are you serious?

DS: I wouldn't lie about something like that. My cousin, who was about the same age, was on the bike. She didn't know what she was doing. I walked up to it and, like a dummy, stuck my hand in there somewhere. The fingers were hanging and we rushed to the hospital. I've got small scars to remind me.

PD: Any other wild events in your life?

DS: I had a hole-in-one last year.

PD: Elaborate, please.

DS: It was the 12th hole at Vermont National. I used a Mizuno 9-iron. The ball took one bounce and rolled 4, 5 feet and disappeared. I have a witness.

PD: What ball did you use and where is it?

DS: Titleist Pro V1 that I found in the bushes the previous hole. My dad asked for it about six months ago. I figured he was going to do something with it, but nothing's happened yet.

Lions Sign Former Vernon Viper Lanny Gare:

The DEL Frankfurt Lions have signed former Vernon Vipers forward Lanny Gare.  Gare started the season with the GDR Lusatian foxes after signing a four week contract back on July, 4th signed with the foxes back on September, 13th playing in 18 games collecting (5-6-11).  Gare spent the past four seasons with RT Bad Nauheim of Germany. Gare played two years with the Vipers (1997-1999). In 117 games with the Vipers Gare collected (67-107-174) .

Lanny Gare's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=12618

This is posted on the Lions website:

New Year wreck: Lanny done becomes a lion!

31st December, 2012

Forward comes from the Zweitligsten Lusatian foxes to Frankfurt. The first application on the next Friday.

The lions Frankfurt begin 2013 with a New Year wreck: Lanny done is from now on a lion! The forward comes from the Zweitligisten Lusatian foxes and has signed a contract till the seasonal end in Frankfurt.

The 34-year-old was fetched on today's Monday at the managing companion Stefan Krämer at the airport in Frankfurt. In the connection it further went to the compulsory medizinschen test from which Lanny done has graduated successfully. Now with it it is officially a lion!

Stefan Krämer, managing companion of the lions Frankfurt: ' We are glad that Lanny in the Rhine Main area returns is and for the lions has decided. We agreed fast and are glad that the Lusatian foxes have released him. He strengthens our team to the most important phase of the season and gives even more depth to our offensive. In addition, our lion's herd will profit from his long-standing experience which he brings. With the transfer the open place is substituted in our storm from our point of view more than equally. '

The 34-year-old has arrived on today's Monday and has graduated from the compulsory medical test successfully.

Lion's coach Frank Gentges: ' I wanted to have Lanny already in summer. Unfortunately, we could not agree at this time financially and his priority lay anyhow in a higher league what I could understand very well. The more I am glad that now we have met and have optimally taken the free place of Danny Albrecht. I expect that Lanny shows his leadership qualities with us and he to more Finalität, speak gates and determining moments, into our play brings. Besides, we can use him in the Powerplay also in the blue line. '

Also Lanny done is glad about the collaboration with Frank Gentges: ' The plays against his teams were always the heaviest, because he works very success-oriented. Therefore, I please to knock myself now to the lions. In addition, I see in Frankfurt the best perspective to come to the second league. Therefore, I am there. I am glad very much about my debut in the lion's tricot. '

In last summer he had joined according to four playing times in bath Home Nau to the Lusatian foxes which were in 2006/07 his first station in Europe after his change from North America already in the playing time. Other stations were since then the ETC. Crimmitschau (2 federal league) and the Herlev Eagles (1-st league Denmark).

Lanny done will celebrate on the next Friday with the most rounds-prelude against food his debut in the lion's tricot and accumulate with the number 17.

There are tickets for the most rounds-prelude in the lion ticket shop.

Player Profile With Former Vipers Goaltender Andrew Hammond:

Here is a closer look at former Vernon Vipers goaltender Andrew Hammond.  Hammond is in his fourth season at Bowling Green University attended the Chicago Blackhawks development camp In July is (6-10-3) with two shutouts and a 2.58 GAA. Hammond played parts of two years in Vernon (2007-2009) after coming over in a trade with the Surrey Eagles during the 2007-08 season. In 52 regular season games with the Vipers Hammond posted a (33-15-1) record recording 6 shutouts.

Andrew Hammond's Player Profile:

http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=113948

This is posted on the Falcons website:

Andrew Hammond Featured On Falcon Focus

by BGSU Athletic Communications

1/8/2013

BOWLING GREEN, Ohio -- Senior Andrew Hammond started all 44 games between the pipes for the Falcons last season, setting the single-season record for minutes played with 2,615:18. He finished with a 2.73 goals-against average, accounting for the seventh-best single-season mark in program history and stopped 1,114 shots, accounting for the second-highest single-season total in program history. Hammond carried a record of 14-24-5 with a .903 save percentage and two shutouts. He was also the recipient of the Jim Sears Award (MVP) and Jim Ruehl Award (Best Defensive Player) for two straight years.

This season, Hammond carries a 2.84 goals against average with a .913 save percentage and two shutouts. He is now second on Bowling Green’s career shutout list, trailing only Tyler Masters who recorded seven from 1999-03.

Hammond, a senior from Surrey, British Columbia, was the highlight of a Sentinel-Tribune feature that focuses on Bowling Green athletes.

The video feature, courtesy of the Sentinel-Tribune, can be found on the link below

http://www.bgsufalcons.com/news/2013/1/8/HOCKEY_0108133629.aspx

Former Vipers Defenceman Guiltinan Ranked By NHL Central Scouting:

Former Vernon Vipers defenceman Kevin Guiltinan was recently ranked by NHL Central Scouting.  Guiltinan was recruited and signed by the Vipers over the summer starting the season with the Vipers before being traded along with future considerations to Prince George on November 22nd for forward Liam Board.  In 39 games this season Guiltinan has (0-2-2).

Kevin Guiltinan's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=206367

This was posted on the Prince George Spruce Kings Crusaders blog:

Kevin Guiltinan Ranked by NHL Central Scouting

Wednesday, January 16, 2013

On Tuesday Spruce Kings defenceman Kevin Guiltinan found his name ranked among the top NHL Draft Eligible players for this summer's draft by NHL Central Scouting. An honour to be sure, but one that is deserved for this hard working young man from London Ontario.

Guiltinan came to the Prince George Spruce Kings via the Vernon Vipers after choosing to come to the BCHL to future his hockey career. I should point out that this is a career that is already far ahead of many other players at this point in their lives. Kevin secured a scholarship to Harvard University for the start of the 2014/15 season playing midget hockey for the Hill Academy Prep School in his home town.

This is a player that plays above his years and plays with an edge (that's a theme I've noticed with both Kevin and Jujhar). This is something that the teams and leagues that scour the BCHL looking for their next gem are looking for. Kevin is the first to admit that he isn't the most offensively gifted player on the blue line but his physical play and compete level doesn't allow very many other players to score when he's out there either.

I had a chance to talk to Kevin briefly after learning that the seventeen year old went from a 'C' rating with NHL Central Scouting to his much more prominent positing in the midterm rankings. There is still a long way to go before the NHL Draft and much more that Kevin wants to be able to show on the ice between now and then. Kevin knows this and has been drawing some tips from those on with the team that saw what Jujhar Khaira did last year to get drafted.

My conversation with Kevin demonstrates just how mature this teenager is and how prepared he is to make the sacrifices it is going to take to get to the next level.

This is posted on the Spruce Kings website:

January 15, 2013

PRINCE GEORGE, BC – Prince George Spruce Kings defenceman Kevin Guiltinan has been ranked by NHL Central Scouting in their mid season rankings of North American skaters eligible for 2013 NHL Entry Draft. Guiltinan is ranked 141st on the most recent list placing him as the third highest ranked defenceman and fifth among draft eligible players in the British Columbia Hockey League.

Guiltinan is a big powerful defenceman that has made an impact on the Spruce Kings blue line since being acquired from the Vernon Vipers earlier in the season. From London, Ontario, Guiltinan is a 6’ 03” 205 lbs seventeen year old BCHL rookie who has already secured a scholarship to Harvard University for the 2014-15 season.

"Kevin Guiltinan is a tremendous young man who plays the game the right way," said Spruce Kings General Manager, Mike Hawes. "He is very committed to the game and his team mates and is very deserving of being ranked by Central Scouting."

"It's very exciting for the organization to have another player ranked this season," added Hawes. "After the excitement of having Jujhar Khaira drafted by Edmonton last year, it is equally exciting that we may have a player drafted in back to back years."

"I'm not the most offensive player," admits Kevin Guiltinan. "I think what they like is my old-school style. I'm willing to do the little things, I'll go in front of pucks, I'll battle, I'll do anything for the team and I compete hard every game."

Prince George fans will have an opportunity to see Guiltinan's style once again this weekend when the Spruce Kings host Divisional rival, the Chilliwack Chiefs.

Former Vernon Lakers Captain Ramsay Collects 300th Coaching Victory:

Former Vernon Lakers captain & current Head Coach-GM of the CHL Tulsa Oilers Bruce Ramsay picked up his 300th career coaching victory.  Ramsay is in his fourth season with the Tulsa Oilers. Tulsa is in last place in the Berry Conference with a record of 12-26-3.  Ramsay played one season in Vernon helping the 1989-90 Vernon Lakers win their first Centennial Cup in a thrilling 6-5 overtime win over the highly favorite New Westminster Royals.

Bruce Ramsay's Player-Coaching Profile:

http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=6007

This is posted on the Oilers website:

Oilers Weekly News and Notes

January 21, 2013

300 Club:  Friday’s win at Wichita was the 300th victory of Bruce Ramsay’s coaching career.  The 43-year old made his head coaching debut in 2002 for the Winston-Salem Parrots of the Atlantic Coast Hockey League and over the last decade, Ramsay has coached four teams in four different leagues.  The Dryden, Ontario native has a career winning percentage of .552.  In three and a half seasons behind the Oilers bench, Ramsay has compiled a record of 103-107-24.

Former Vipers Defenceman Noonan Suspended:

Former Vernon Vipers defenceman Garrett Noonan has been suspended two games.  Noonan is in his third season at Boston University, in 21 games this season Noonan has (4-11-15).  Noonan was named to the 2012-2013 Preseason All-American Team this year.   Noonan was drafted by the Nashville Predators in round 4 #112 overall in the 2011 NHL Entry Draft. Noonan played one season in Vernon (2009-2010) collecting (2-16-18) in 58 regular season games with the Vipers.

Garrett Noonan's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=48219

This is posted on the Hockey East website:

HOCKEY EAST SUSPENDS BU'S GARRETT NOONAN ONE ADDITIONAL GAME

January 22, 2013

Wakefield, Mass. - Hockey East Coordinator of Officials Dan Schachte announced on Tuesday an additional one-game suspension for Boston University junior defenseman Garrett Noonan.

Noonan will sit out a total of two games, which includes one game from his disqualification penalty in the UMass- Lowell game on Saturday, January 19. Noonan will be eligible to return to the Terriers' lineup on Friday, February 1 at Massachusetts.

Vees Punish Vipers On Powerplay:

This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:

Vees punish Vernon Vipers on powerplay

Published: January 26, 2013

Jedd Soleway sniped the powerplay winner as the Penticton Vees grounded the Vernon Vipers 3-1 in B.C. Hockey League action Friday night at South Okanagan Events Centre.

Soleway, an 18-year-old Vernon product who was traded from the Viper den to Penticton in early December, added an assist on third star Wade Murphy’s insurance marker in the third period to earn first star in front of 2,400 fans.

The Vees (29-11-0-3), tied with the Victoria Grizzlies for first overall, have won five of six regular-season tilts against Vernon.

The Snakes are last in the Interior Division at 14-21-0-7 and trail the Salmon Arm SilverBacks (18-18-2-3) by six points for the final playoff berth.

Four of Vernon’s next five games are at Wesbild Centre, and assistant coach David Robinson says if they want to reach the post season they better start racking up some points.

“It’s very doable, we just have to keep playing hard and believing we can get in,” said Robinson.

“We do have some ground to make up, but they’re starting to believe in themselves. We’re trying to build an identity as a hard-working team. All the guys in the room just want to play.”

The Vipers begin their February schedule against the Coquitlam Express (17-24-1) Friday at Wesbild. The ‘Backs are in Vernon Saturday.

Cody DePourcq (8th goal) opened the scoring late in the first period, beating Austin Smith (28 saves) blocker side at 17:34. The speedy winger earned a free shot at net when Vernon d-man Bryce Eviston tumbled after stepping on a stick that was laying on the ice.

Soleway (11th) put the Vees up 2-0 in the fifth minute of the second period.

Vernon’s Mason Blacklock  (12th) continued his hot streak when he buried a slick 2-on-1 feed from Liam Board midway through the frame.

Murphy (18th) sealed the win for Chad Katunar (26 saves) early in the final period.

“It wasn’t a bad effort,” said Robinson. “The game could have gone either way.

“We turned over the puck a few times and if you do that against a team like that it’s going to come back to bite you. Top team in the league; there’s a lot of skill over there.”

SNAKE BITES: Vernon forward Craig Martin returned to the lineup for the first time since breaking his leg in a mid-November game.

Former Vipers Collins & Bigos Named Hockey East Weekly Top Performers:

Former Vernon Vipers defenceman Kyle Bigos & forward Mike Collins are two of twenty players that have been named this week's Hockey East weekly top performers on Monday for the second straight week.


Kyle Bigos was named Hockey Easts weekly top performer for the second time this season had a goal and an assist in Merrimack's 3-2 win over Maine last Saturday. Bigos played two seasons in Vernon (2007-2009) collecting (10-40-50) in 116 regular season games with the Vipers. Bigos an assistant captain in his second and final season with the Vipers was drafted 99th overall by the NHL Edmonton Oilers in the 4th round of the 2009 NHL Draft.

Kyle Bigos's Player Profile:

http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=101195

Mike Collins was named Hockey Easts weekly top performer for the eighth time this season notched assists on all three goals, leading Merrimack to a 3-2 victory over Maine.  Collins played two season's in Vernon (2008-2010) In 119 regular season games with the Vipers Collins recorded (55-71-126)

Mike Collins Player Profile:

http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=122117

Vipers-Vees Highlights:

Thanks to Penticton Vees play by play man Fraser Rogers for posting last night's game highlights between Vernon & Penticton on his blog.  The Vees took the game 3-1

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=CBtvx2-msgM

Vee Power Play Defeats Vipers:

This is posted on the Vipers website:

Vee Power Play Defeats Vipers
 
Saturday, January 26, 2013 - Submitted by Don Klepp

Despite a solid overall effort in Penticton on Friday, the Vipers surrendered power play goals to Jedd Soleway and Wade Murphy in a 3-1 loss.

The Vipers matched the Vees in total scoring chances and dominated the opening 10 minutes but were unable to solve goalie Chad Katunar in plays around the net. At the other end, Austin Smith had another strong game in the Viper net, especially in a run-and-gun second period.

Diminutive Cody DePourcq opened the scoring at 17:34 of the first period, collecting a puck at centre ice and scooting past Bryce Eviston on the left wing. DePourcq’s shot beat Smith high.

The Vipers did well to kill off two penalties in the first period but Jedd Soleway scored with Geoff Crisfield in the box at 5:25 of the second. After the Vipers failed on three clearing attempts, the ex-Viper swept through the left faceoff circle and unleashed a low shot just inside Smith’s right goal post.

On a similar play in the third period, Wade Murphy got away from TJ Dumonceaux along the left boards, cut into the slot and fired a bullet over Smith’s left shoulder.

Mason Blacklock gave his team reason to hope at 8:49 of the second period when his quick shot from the slot caught Katunar flat footed. Blacklock was set up by Liam Board, who won a race to the puck deep in the Vee zone and flicked a pass right onto Blacklock’s stick.

Several times in the middle frame, the Vipers set up shop in Penticton’s end. They created 9 scoring chances in the 20 minutes but were unable to score the equalizer.

The third period was different as the Vees battened down the hatches. The Vipers were credited with only three shots on goal in the period and none on a late power play.

On balance, the deciding factor in the contest was the Vees’ two power play goals on their third and fourth opportunities with the man advantage. During their two power plays the Vipers generated only one scoring chance.

Snake Bytes:

After a prolonged absence, Craig Martin returned to the Viper lineup. He didn’t get an opportunity to showcase his scoring skills, but he dished out several hits in one of his more physical games as a Viper.

Once again, scoring the first goal proved critical for both teams. The Vipers are 12-4-0-5 when scoring first and 1-17-0-2 when they do not. The Vees are just 9-9-0-1 when they surrender 7he first goal but a whopping 21-0-1-1 when they open the scoring.
Jason Bird and Braedan Russell sat out with injury.

Penticton 3 Vernon 1

SCORING SUMMARY

PERIOD 1

Penticton Vees at 17:34 - Cody DePourcq from Cam Amantea and Thomas Nitsche 

PERIOD 2

Penticton Vees at 5:25 (PP) - Jedd Soleway from Wade Murphy and John Siemer 
Vernon Vipers at 8:49 - Mason Blacklock from Liam Board and Marc Hetnik 

PERIOD 3

Penticton Vees at 4:21 (PP) - Wade Murphy from John Siemer and Jedd Soleway 
Penticton outshot Vernon 31-27 Chad Katunar made 26 saves in the win while Austin Smith made 28 saves in the loss.

For more on tonight's game visit the boxscore,

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxscores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=1103086&link=bchl

For more on the Penticton Vees and tonights game, please visit Fraser Rodgers Three Vees Penticton Vees Blog, http://pentictonvees.wordpress.com/

Former Viper Mike Collins Collects Three Points In Win Over New Hampshire:

Former Vernon Vipers forward Mike Collins scored twice and added one assist in Merrimacks 3-2 win over New Hampshire.  Collins is one of seventy seven players up for this years Hobey Baker Award. The Hobey Baker Award is an annual award given to the top National Collegiate Athletic Association men's ice hockey player. Collins is in his third season at Merrimack College. In 23 games this season Collins has (11-16-27). Collins played two season's in Vernon (2008-2010) In 119 regular season games with the Vipers Collins recorded (55-71-126)

Mike Collins Player Profile:

http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=122117

This is posted on the Warriors website:

COLLINS LEADS MERRIMACK PAST NEW HAMPSHIRE, 3-2

Junior forward Mike Collins scores two goals and assist for Warriors

Friday, January 25, 2013

Mike Collins scored two goals and an assist for the Warriors

NORTH ANDOVER, MA - Behind a three-point night from junior Mike Collins (Boston, Mass.), the Merrimack hockey team defeated the #4 UNH Wildcats in front of a sold out Lawler Arena on Friday night by the score of 3-2. With the win, the Merrimack senior class ties last year's senior class for the most wins in school history.

The last time Merrimack defeated a top-five team was October 30, 2010 when the Warriors beat #2 Boston College by the score of 4-2 at Lawler Arena.

Merrimack (10-9-5, 8-5-2 HEA) will travel to Manchester, NH to take on the #4 UNH Wildcats again tomorrow night at the Verizon Wireless Center. Puck drop is set for 5:00 p.m. WGAM will be hosting a Merrimack hockey pregame party from Jillian's, right across the street from the Verizon Wireless Center from 2-4 p.m.

With the win, Merrimack is now tied with Providence for fourth place in the Hockey East standings with one game-in-hand on the Friars and two points behind Boston University for third place in the Hockey East.

The Warriors registered the game-winning goal just seven seconds into the third period as freshman Brian Christie (West Chester, PA) won the opening draw and it ended up on the stick of Jordan Heywood (Regina, SK) who skated in over the line and found Christie in between the circles. Christie took the pass and unleashed a quick wrist shot over the blocker of the UNH goaltender for the winning goal. Heywood and Collins picked up assists on Christie's fourth goal of the season.

Merrimack opened the scoring with one minute to play in the first period as leading scorer, Collins, deposited his first goal of the night and 12th of the season. Collins took a feed from Quinn Gould (Fort McMurray, AB) and beat Jeff Wyer over the shoulder. Christie also picked up an assist on the Collins tally.

The Wildcats scored back-to-back goals early in the second period to take the 2-1 lead just 9:40 into action. Eric Knodel scored the first goal as his bouncing shot from the point beat Sam Marotta (Bridgewater, Mass.) over his left shoulder. A couple minutes later, Casey Thrush found the back of the net after a Connor Hardowa pass.

Collins didn't waste any time to respond with the tying goal as he took the puck behind the net, skated out front looking to the point and fired a shot just inside the post to beat Wyer. The assists on the goal again went to Christie and Gould.

After the quick Merrimack goal in the third, the two teams went back and forth with the Warriors holding the 13-6 advantage in the third in shots on goal. The Wildcats pulled their goalie with just over a minute to play in the game but they were not able to beat Marotta.

Collins added to his team leading 27 points by adding three more tonight while Christie recorded his first-career three point game in the win. Gould also picked up first-career two assist game. Collins now leads the Hockey East in conference points with 25 points in conference action.

Marotta continued to stand tall for the Warriors finishing with 29 saves in his seventh win of the season. Wyer made 32 saves in the losing effort for UNH.

Both teams finished the game going 0-3 on the power play with four shots on goal.

Merrimack improves to 6-2-3 in their last 11 games and 16-2-6 over the last two seasons when leading after one period of play.

(Game Preview) Vernon @ Penticton:

Vernon (14-20-0-7) @ Penticton (28-11-0-3) 7:00pm start

Tonight is the sixth of seven regular season meetings between the Vernon Vipers and the defending National champion Penticton Vees. The Vees lead the season series 4-1.  You can listen to tonight's game live with Todd Miller starting with the pre-game show at 6:45pm on 107.5 Kiss FM 

Last Game:

Sunday, January 20th Victoria defeated Vernon 1-0
Sunday, January 20th Penticton defeated Coquitlam 6-3

Next Game:

Friday, February 1st Coquitlam @ Vernon
Saturday, January 26th West Kelowna @ Penticton

Since the 2002-03 regular season Vernon is 34-26-2-4 vs. Penticton

Since the 2002-03 regular season Vernon has outscored Penticton 209-193

Since the 2003-04 regular season Vernon is 17-9-1-1 at home vs. Penticton

Since the 2003-04 regular season Vernon is 14-13-1-1 in Penticton

Vernon is 4-4-1-1 in their last ten visits to Penticton

Penticton is 5-4-0-1 in their last ten visits to Vernon

The Vipers are 2-8-0-0 in their last ten games vs. Penticton

Vernon's last win at home vs Penticton was a 7-1 victory back on Wednesday, November 2nd 2011

Penticton's last win at the Wesbild Centre was a 3-1 victory back on Friday, December 14th 2012

Vernon's last win at the South Okanagan Events Centre was a 2-1 victory back on Friday, November 23rd 2012

Penticton's last win at home vs Vernon was a 4-2 victory back on Friday, October 5th 2012

The Vipers went 1-6-0-0 vs Penticton last 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: 1024
Wins: 647
Losses: 274
Ties: 16
Overtime Losses: 91

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:

The Vipers return to the Okanagan to finish a four game road trip where they are 2-1 so far.  The Vipers who have won three of their last six games make their second visit of the season to Penticton where they are 1-1. The 6th place Vipers are 4-6-0-0 in their last ten games are five points back of the fourth and final playoff spot (Salmon Arm Silverbacks).  The Vipers will return home next weekend where they will play five of their next seven games on home ice. 

Mason Blacklock (11-12-23) leads the Vipers in goals with eleven and in points with twenty three

Games Played: 41
Wins: 14
Losses: 20
Ties: 0
Overtime Losses: 7
Home Record: 7-9-0-4
Road Record: 7-11-0-3
Goals For: 101
Goals Against: 129
Streak: One game losing streak
Standings: 6th Place

Vernon Vipers Returning Players:

Brett Corkey (92)
Marc Hetnik (92)
Geoff Crisfield (93)
Danny Todosychuk (94)
Colton Sparrow (93)
Ryan Renz (93)

Vernon Vipers Departing & traded players from last years team:

Michael Zalewski (92)
Brendan Persley (93)
Darren Nowick (91)
Aaron Hadley (93)
Riley Hunt (95)
Adam Tambellini (94)
John Knisley (92)
Colton Cyr (91)
Patrick McGillis (91)
Jedd Soleway (94)
Sean Robertson (91)
Ben Gamache (91)
Max Mowat (93)
Turner Lawson (94)
Kirby Halcrow (91)

Vernon’s home record vs. Penticton this season:

0-2-0-0

Vernon’s road record vs. Penticton this season:

1-2-0-0 (One game was played in Chilliwack at BCHL Showcase)

Vernon’s Powerplay vs. Penticton this season:

1-13

Vernon’s scoring leaders vs. Penticton this season:

Brett Corkey (0-2-2)
Michael Statchuk (0-1-1)
Craig Martin (1-0-1)
Michael Roberts (0-1-1)
Liam Board (0-1-1)
Ryan Renz (1-0-1)
Dexter Dancs (0-1-1)

Austin Smith (1-4 Record)

Dexter Dancs faces his former team for the second time this season

Key’s and Notes to tonight’s game:

-Vernon has the leagues 14th best powerplay

-The Vipers have the BCHL's 15th best penalty kill

Lets take a look at the Penticton Vees:

The defending National Champion Penticton Vees return home after a five game road trip where they went 4-1.  The Vees are now home for six straight and play eight of their next nine on home ice.  Penticton sits in 1st place in the Interior Division ten points up on the 2nd place West Kelowna Warriors.  The Vees have won four straight and are 7-3-0-0 in their last ten games.

John Siemer (22-30-52) leads the Vees in points with fifty two while Brad McClure (23-14-37) leads the Vees in goals with twenty three

For more on the Penticton Vees and tonights game, please visit Fraser Rodgers Three Vees Penticton Vees Blog, http://pentictonvees.wordpress.com/

Regular Season:

Games Played: 42
Wins: 28
Losses: 11
Ties: 0
Overtime Losses: 3
Home Record: 13-5-0-1
Road Record: 15-6-0-2
Goals For: 146
Goals Against: 102
Streak: Four game winning streak
Standings: 1st Place

Penticton Vees Returning Players:

Cody DePourcq (95)
Wade Murphy (93)
Troy Stecher (94)
Chad Katunar (93)

Penticton Vees Departing & traded players from last years team:

Joey Benik (92)
Mario Lucia (93)
Travis St. Denis (92)
Connor Reilly (91)
Mike Reilly (93)
Alex Jewell (94)
Steven Fogarty (93)
Bryce Gervais (92)
Ryan Reilly (91)
Curtis Loik (93)
Logan Johnston (91)
Zach Urban (93)
Nick Buchanan (91)
Grant Nicholson (93)
DJ Jones (92)
Kyle Beaulieu (91)
Chad Bannor (92)
Michael Garteig (91)

Penticton's Home record vs. Vernon this season:

2-1-0-0 (One game was played in Chilliwack at BCHL Showcase)

Penticton's Road record vs. Vernon this season:

2-0-0-0

Penticton's Powerplay vs. Vernon this season:

3-23

Penticton's scoring leaders vs. Vernon this season:

Sam Mellor (3-5-8)
Wade Murphy (3-3-6)
Troy Stecher (0-6-6)
Michael Rebry (3-0-3)
Louie Nanne (1-1-2)
Sean Flanagan (1-1-2)
Ryan Gropp (1-0-1)
James De Haas (0-1-1)
Cody DePourcq (0-1-1)
Cam Amantea (1-0-1)
Brad McClure (1-0-1)
Jedd Soleway (0-1-1)
Travis Blanleil (1-0-1)

Chad Katunar (4-1 Record)

Key’s and Notes to tonight’s game:

-Jedd Soleway faces his former team for the second time this season

-Penticton has the BCHL's 15th best powerplay

-The Vees have the league's 2nd best penalty kill

Here's a look at both teams rosters:

Vernon Vipers:

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/stats_1team.cfm?leagueID=2393&clientID=1413&teamid=224096

Penticton Vees:

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/stats_1team.cfm?leagueID=2393&clientID=1413&teamid=224101

Komets Take Former Viper Defenceman Nycholat Off Reserve Roster:

The ECHL Fort Wayne Komets have taken former Vernon Vipers defenceman Dan Nycholat off the teams reserve roster re-adding him to the teams active roster on January, 5th.  No official press release but the transaction was posted on the ECHL transactions page.  Nycholat was put on the reserve roster back on January, 2nd 2012 to make room for Corey Elkins & Luca Caputi who were loaned from the American Hockey League's Norfolk Admirals.  Nycholat is in his first season with Fort Wayne.  In thirty nine games with the Komets Nycholat has (0-13-13). The Komets invited Nycholat to Training camp on September, 19th 2012 before releasing him on October, 10th 2012 but then signed him the following day on October, 11th 2012. Nycholat finished his first season (2011-12) at Dartmouth College, collecting two assists and 15 penalty minutes in 25 games before signing a amateur try-out (ATO) with the ECHL Las Vegas Wranglers on March, 16th 2012. Nycholat went pointless in four regular season games with Las Vegas before being released. Nycholat made the 2012 ECAC Hockey All-Academic Team in June 2012. Nycholat played two season's at Northeastern University before leaving the Huskies and playing one season in Vernon (2009-2010) where he won the top defenceman award. The AJHL Canmore Eagles traded Nycholat's playing right's on August, 20th 2009 to the Vipers for forward, Kory Roy and future considerations. In 58 regular season games with the Vipers Nycholat collected (7-38-45).

Dan Nycholat's Player Profile:

http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=101611

Martin Secures Scholarship:

This is posted on the Vipers website:

Martin Secures Scholarship
 
Wednesday, January 23, 2013 - Submitted by Viper Staff

January 23, 2013

The Vernon Vipers are pleased to announce that rookie forward Craig Martin has committed to Quinnipiac University for 2014-2015.

“I’m very excited, the campus is very nice and the guys are great, it was just the right feeling” says Martin.

Martin will join a few former BCHL products on the Bobcat roster which currently includes former Vipers Connor and Kellen Jones who are enjoying a great junior campaign.

Head Coach and General Manager Jason Williamson feels that Martin’s best is yet to come.  “His best hockey is yet to come,” said Williamson. “He’s a guy we’re going to lean on as soon as he’s healthy down the stretch and into next season.”

Craig Martin becomes the fifth Viper on the roster to secure an NCAA scholarship.

For more information please contact the Viper office at 250-542-6022

Cougars Name Former Vipers Head Coach Mark Holick New Head Coach:

The WHL Prince George Cougars have named former Vernon Vipers Head Coach Mark Holick the teams new Head Coach.  Holick was behind the bench with the Vipers for just one season (2006-07) with a record of (37-19-1-3) guiding the Vipers to the BCHL finals where they fell in six games to the Nanaimo Clippers.

Mark Holick's Player-Coaching Profile:

http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=2331

This is posted on the Cougars website:

Cougars Name Mark Holick Head Coach.

January 23, 2013

Prince George Cougars General Manager Dallas Thompson announced today that Mark Holick (Saskatoon, SK) has been named the 10th head coach of the Prince George Cougars Hockey Club. Holick most recently served as head coach of the Syracuse Crunch (American Hockey League, 2010-2012) and the Kootenay Ice (Western Hockey League, 2007-2010).

“I’m really excited to get going,” said Holick who hopes to arrive in Prince George in time to watch tonight’s game. “I’m happy to be back in the Western Hockey League, and my family and I are looking forward to being a part of the community in Prince George.”

Under Holick, the Kootenay Ice made the playoffs in each of his three seasons behind the bench. He coached Kootenay to an overall record of 120-75-0-21 and a winning percentage of .604. Holick won WHL Coach of the Year honors in 2009-2010.

“We’re extremely excited to name Mark our head coach,” said Prince George Cougars General Manager Dallas Thompson. “He brings with him an excellent winning record, pro experience and will bring an exciting new approach to our players and fans.”

 “We’re going to command a work ethic, commitment and pride in being part of an organization in the Western Hockey League,” adds Holick. “We want to be the hardest working team on the ice, and when you do that, you win more than you lose.”

He also had great success at the Jr. A level, leading the South Surrey Eagles to a Royal Bank Cup victory in 1997-98. Holick spent 13 years as either a head or assistant coach in both the British Columbia Hockey League (BCHL) and Alberta Junior Hockey League (AJHL). His teams included: Vernon (BCHL, 2006-07), St. Albert/Spruce Grove (AJHL, 2003-06), South Surrey (BCHL, 1996-2002), Langley (BCHL, 1995-96) and Penticton (BCHL, 1994-95).

Holick also played professionally for four seasons (1989-1994). In 142 professional games with Adirondack (AHL), Louisville (ECHL) and Dallas (CHL) he totalled 30 goals, 43 assists and added 635 penalty minutes. He was selected by the Toronto Maple Leafs in the 11th round (216th overall) in the 1986 NHL Entry Draft.

Holick will be joined in Prince George by wife Janet, son Cooper and daughter Kennedy.

Former Viper Nyjer Morgan Had Twitter Account Hacked:

Former Vernon Vipers defenceman Nyjer Morgan recently had his twitter account hacked.  Morgan elected free agency, a day after the Milwaukee Brewers hastened his departure by outrighting him from the 40-man roster. Morgan played as an "AP" as a 16 year old with the Vipers during the (1996-1997) season. Morgan was drafted by the Pittsburgh Pirates in the 33rd round of the 2002 Major League Baseball Draft. On September 1, 2007, Morgan made his major league debut for the Pittsburgh Pirates against the Milwaukee Brewers as a late-season call-up. Morgan finished his second season with the Brewers is with his third major league team (Pittsburgh, Washington & Milwaukee).

Nyjer Morgan's Player Profile:

http://brewers.mlb.com/team/player.jsp?player_id=460579#gameType='S'§ionType=career&statType=1&season=2012

This is posted on the USA Today website:

Nyjer Morgan 'hacked' on Twitter by someone who thinks he's unfaithful

Mike Foss, USA TODAY Sports

January 14, 2013

Nyjer Morgan's Twitter account began posting several unflattering tweets around 7 p.m. on Monday night.

The Milwaukee Brewers outfielder's account announced to his following of over 85,000 that he had been unfaithful to his girlfriend.

"I did something horrible today nation I cheated on my girlfriend," the initial tweet began. "I ruined her life and I will pay the price for this I loved her but was bad"

The account fired off two more messages in similar fashion:

"She caught me as much as I loved her I'm just a cheater I'm sorry"

"The truth will come out"

Morgan's account also changed its bio section to read:

"This is dedicated to my x girlfriend that i cheated on and left in the streets this page was changed by me"

Approximately an hour after the first tweet surfaced, Morgan tweeted the following explanation:

"What's good nation? NEWS ALERT! My account was hacked! I'm in the process of changing all my info and starting a new account! AAAAHHHH!"

Morgan fired of two more tweets assuring his followers of his happiness and anticipation for the 2013 MLB season, including his Twitter trademark 'AHHHH GOTTA GO' sign off.

"This is the real T-Plush! You won't see anymore of those nonsense tweets! AHHHH GOTTA GO!!!!"

"My life is fantastic right now! Can't Wait for Baseball Season!"

Regardless of the circumstance, there is no question the entire exchange was uncomfortable and unfortunate. To hopefully insure his account would never been stolen again, Morgan confirmed he changed his password.

"I just changed my password. I hope this works! AAAHHH!"

For everyone's sake, let's hope it does.

Central Scouting Mid-Term Rankings Include Viper Dexter Dancs:

Central Scouting mid-term rankings include 10 BCHL players
 
Thursday, January 17, 2013 - Submitted by BCHL Media

NHL Central Scouting released the mid-term rankings this week and 10 BCHL players have been included.

Of the 10 players, five are defenceman, three are fowards and two are goalies.

SKATERS:

62. Adam Tambellini, F, Surrey Eagles
64. Luke Ripley, D, Powell River Kings
104. David Pope, F, West Kelowna Warriors
132. Cooper Rush, D, Chilliwack Chiefs
141. Kevin Guiltinan, D, Prince George Spruce Kings
150. Nolan De Jong, D, Victoria Grizzlies
154. Dexter Dancs, F, Vernon Vipers
161. Dane Birks, D, Merritt Centennials

GOALIES:

32. Adam Clark, Salmon Arm SilverBacks
33. Chad Katunar, Penticton Vees.

The lists rate the top 210 North American skaters and top 35 North American goalies. There were also list for international skaters and goalies 

Vipers Surge On Island:

This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:

Vipers surge on Island

Published: January 23, 2013

Anytime you have three teammates up for B.C. Hockey League’s Gongshow Player of the Week, it usually means good things are happening.

That was the case for the Vernon Vipers, as the
y collected four of six points, narrowly missing a three-game Vancouver Island road sweep after falling 1-0 to the Victoria Grizzlies in a Sunday matinee.

The 14-20-0-7 Snakes brushed back the Cowichan Valley Capitals 3-1 a night earlier in Duncan.

Newcomer Mason Blacklock received POW honours after turning in consecutive first-star efforts, starting with a four-point showing in Friday’s 6-4 win over the Nanaimo Clippers. The White Rock product followed that with a goal and an assist against the Caps.

“He’s only going to get better,” said Vipers’ head coach Jason Williamson. “The character is starting to shine through with that kid. He took a pretty good hit (from Victoria’s Brett Hartscamp) and was still able to bounce back and was pretty good after that.”

POW honourable mentions went to Andrew Tegeler (six points, second star selection), and netminder Austin Smith.

“We’re just trying to keep it simple,” said Blacklock, of his line of Tegeler and Dexter Dancs. “We’re three big, pretty fast guys which helps. I was given a good opportunity and I’m just trying to make the most of it. Things are going well.”

Smith, a Calgary product, backstopped Vernon in the win over Cowichan, and ended the weekend with a .971 save percentage, 1.01 goals-against average and a pair of second star recognitions.

“He was back to his old self,” said Williamson. “He made some great stops early (versus Caps) and gave us some life.”

Myles Fitzgerald, with his 22nd goal, was the lone player to find the scoresheet Sunday, beating Smith with a turn-around slapshot from the slot in the third period. The first-overall Grizz improved to 28-9-0-4.

“We were running on fumes but it was a good hockey game and our guys showed a lot of guts and determination,” said Williamson.

Colton Sparrow (5th goal) and Dexter Dancs (5th) rounded out the scoring against the last-place Capitals (9-25-1-3). Smith had 30 saves for his 10th win.

Jamie Waddington handled Cowichan’s attack as Connor LaCouvee (28 saves) took the loss.

Vernon (14-20-0-7) visits the Interior-leading Penticton Vees (28-11-0-3) for their lone weekend tilt Friday at the South Okanagan Events Centre. They trail the Salmon Arm SilverBacks (18-17-2-3) for the final Interior playoff spot by five points.

“We have two games against Salmon Arm (Feb. 2 and Feb. 22),” said Williamson. “If we win those two, it’s real tight. There’s 30 points still up for grabs and that’s what we have to focus on right now.”

In other BCHL Interior action Saturday night, Vernon’s Alex Gillies scored the equalizer and OT winner as the ‘Backs bounced the host Trail Smoke Eaters 4-3.

Tyler Steel, another Vernon native, netted his fourth shutout with a 26-save performance as the Merritt Centennials slammed the Coquitlam Express 5-0 at Nicola Valley Arena.

Regan Soquila led the Merritt offence with two goals and an assist, while Sean Maktaak chipped in with three helpers.

Merritt (22-12-1-2) and the West Kelowna Warriors (18-11-3-8) are tied for second in the Interior.

SNAKE BITES: Injured Viper forward Craig Martin is back skating with the team and is questionable for Penticton. If not, Williamson said he is likely to play the following weekend...The Grizz were without suspended players Kade Pilton, Keyler Bruce and ex-Viper Turner Lawson Sunday. The trio are serving suspensions for their part in a post-game brawl in a Jan. 12 tilt with the Chilliwack Chiefs.