Komets Name Former Vernon Viper Marino MVP:

The East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) Fort Wayne Komets
have named former Vernon Vipers forward Brandon Marino MVP.  Marino is in his first season in the ECHL after signing with the Komets on July, 17th 2012. In 71 games this season with the Komets Marino has (20-54-74). Marino was invited to the AHL Norfolk Admirals training camp on September, 26th 2012 but was released on October, 4th 2012.   Marion was then called up to the Admirals but only played in one game before being released. 

Marino spent the last three seasons with the CHL Quad City Mallards before signing with the Komets. Marino was named the 2011-12 Central Hockey League Most Valuable Player, as well as took home MVP at last year's CHL all-star game. Marino had a breakout season during which he led the league with 41 goals and finished second with 90 points. The 5’ 9”, 185-pound Riverside, California native also led the league in power play goals (13), ranked fourth in assists (49) and finished tied for fourth in shorthanded goals (3) and game winning goals (7) while also posting a plus/minus rating of +9. Marino played just two games with the 2002-2003 Vernon Vipers.

Brandon Marino's Player Profile:

http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=93732

This is posted on the Komets website:

Komets announce End of Season Awards

03/30/2013

Fort Wayne, IN ---The Komets announced their End-of-Season Player Awards Saturday night following the regular season home finale against the Kalamazoo Wings at the Memorial Coliseum.  The awards were presented as follows:
Bud Gallmeier Memorial Trophy/Community Service Award, for community service and dedication to the game of hockey in memory of long-time Komet beat writer Bud Gallmeier:  Charlie Effinger

The Wiegmann Family “True Komet” Award, exemplifying team spirit and a positive attitude on and off the ice:  Brett Smith

The NOB Brick Award, for the Stonewall Defensive Forward of the season:  J.M. Rizk

The Mr. Hustle Award, in honor of the memory of Cliff and Jean Fell, Jim and William Fell, and Pat Curtis, long-time Komet fans.  The award considers a player’s personal statistics (goals, assists and on-ice hits at home) and overall up-tempo style of game:  Brandon Marino

The Unsung Hero Award, the Komets’ 5/30 award in tribute to Komet Hall-of-Famers Robbie Irons and Terry Pembroke, given t the player whose hard work, dedication to his teammates and love of the game is in the true spirit of Komet legends Robbie Irons and Terry Pembroke:  Brett Smith

The Komet Kuarters Most Improved Player Award:  Ryan Hegarty

The Komet Defenseman of the Year Award:  Tyler Butler

The Komet Rookie of the Year Award:  Matt Firman

The Komet Most Valuable Player Award, known as the Foss Folk Memorial Trophy sponsored by the Folk family and voted on by the Komet players themselves:  Brandon Marino

End of Season Party and Jersey Auction—The Komets will hold the annual End of Season Party and Jersey Auction Tuesday, April 2, in the Appleseed Room of the Memorial Coliseum.  Doors open at 6:30pm and the jersey auction starts at 7pm.  Game worn player jerseys will be auctioned to the highest bidders.

Three Former Vipers Included In NHL Central Scouting 2013 Final Draft Ranking:

Three former Vernon Vipers are Included in the NHL Central Scouting 2013 final draft rankings.  Adam Tambellini, Jedd Soleway & Kevin Guiltinan.  All three started this season with the Vipers before being traded.

This was posted on the BCHL wesbite:

15 CJHL players, including seven BCHLers, listed by Central Scouting

Wednesday, April 24, 2013 - Submitted by CJHL Network

Fifteen CJHL players were identified in the Final Rankings for the 2013 NHL Entry Draft released today. Surrey Eagles forward Adam Tambellini is the recipient of the Top NHL Prospect Award as the highest ranked CJHL player at 42nd on the North American Skaters list.

The BCHL has the most players recognized in the list among Junio A league with seven. Tambellini was ranked 62nd overall in the Midterm Rankings and climbed 20 spots.  The NHL Central Scouting Midterm Rankings included fourteen CJHL Players.

Tambellini was a BCHL 2nd Team-All Star and led the BCHL in goals during the 2013 Playoffs.  Tambellini scored the double-overtime goal for the Surrey Eagles to capture the 2013 Fred Page Cup.   Tambellini, a native of Edmonton, Alberta, has committed to the University of North Dakota (NCAA Division I) for the 2013-2014 Season.  He also earned a tryout with Team Canada West for the 2012 World Junior A Challenge.  Tambellini and the Surrey Eagles captured the BCHL Title and will now compete in the 2013 Crescent Point Energy Western Canada Cup in Nanaimo, BC from April 27 – May 5th. 

North American Skaters   
  
RANK FIRST NAME LAST NAME TEAM LEAGUE
42 ADAM TAMBELLINI SURREY BCHL
67 DAVID POPE WEST KELOWNA BCHL
86 LUKE RIPLEY POWELL RIVER BCHL
111 NOLAN DE JONG VICTORIA BCHL
117 MATT BUCKLES ST. MICHAELS OJHL
119 TROY JOSEPHS ST. MICHAELS OJHL
121 DANE BIRKS MERRITT BCHL
122 BLAINE BYRON SMITHS FALLS CCHL
129 CARSON SOUCY SPRUCE GROVE AJHL
131 JEDD SOLEWAY PENTICTON BCHL
162 KEVIN GUILTINAN PRINCE GEORGE BCHL
183 MIKE WILLIAMSON SPRUCE GROVE AJHL
184 JOSH HEALEY SHERWOOD PARK AJHL
204 PAUL STOYKEWYCH WINNIPEG BLUES MJHL

North American Goaltenders    

RANK FIRST NAME LAST NAME TEAM LEAGUE
28 CHAD KATUNAR PENTICTON BCHL

Thirteen CJHL players were drafted in the 2012 NHL Entry Draft, surpassing a total of 7 players selected in 2011.   The 2013 NHL Draft will be held on June 28 at Prudential Center in Newark, NJ.

Third & Final Day From Vipers Spring Camp:

I missed the morning scrimmage but made it down to the rink for the second and final game on the final day of Vipers Spring Camp.

Team Blue played a very defensive game defeating Team Yellow 5-1.  Austin Hannaford was very solid between the pipes for Team Blue.  Plays his position well, dosnt give up alot of rebounds and very steady all morning.  Defenceman Hunter Behrens who has been impressive all camp was in two fights today.  This kid has some size, plays physical and isnt afriad to drop the gloves.  Plays with a bit of an edge, stood out in the games I watched.  Matthew Hill really impressed me again today, this kid has some wheels, can move the puck and has skill.  Played very well all camp.  Nicolas Guerra also has some skill and nice hands.  Played well for Team Blue today.

I was pretty impressed with this years Spring Camp.  Some very good players at camp this year.  The level of play and compete level was pretty high making for some pretty good scrimmages.  The Vipers coaching staff is going to have some very tough decisions to make come Training Camp in late August.  The Vipers have all but three players returning from this years team and have eight twenty year olds (league limit is six) Dont forget about the four or five players coming over through some of the trades this past season (regarding future considerations) and the Vipers already have to many kids.  Not to mention any new recruits that land over the summer.  So you know there will be some trades happening over the summer.  It will be interesting to watch the Vipers roster develope over the summer and into Training camp.

Capitals Re-Sign Former Vernon Viper Volpatti:

The Washington Capitals have re-signed former Vernon Vipers forward Aaron Volpatti. Volpatti played parts of the last two and a half seasons with the Vancouver Canucks before being claimed off waivers by the Washington Capitals back on February 28th 2013. The Canucks signed Volpatti as a free agent on March 22, 2010. Volpatti played three seasons in Vernon (2003-2006) In 137 regular season games with the Vipers Volpatti collected (13-24-37).

Aaron Volpatti's Player Profile:

http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=76574


This is posted on the Capitals website:

Capitals Re-sign Aaron Volpatti

Wednesday, 04.24.2013

ARLINGTON, Va. – The Washington Capitals have re-signed left wing Aaron Volpatti to a two-year contract, vice president and general manager George McPhee announced today. Volpatti will earn $550,000 in 2013-14 and $600,000 in 2014-15.

Volpatti, 28, has recorded one goal, one assist and 33 penalty minutes in 31 games with Washington and Vancouver this season. The native of Revelstoke, British Columbia, has collected three goals, two assists and 86 penalty minutes in 69 career NHL games with the Capitals and Canucks.

The 6’0”, 215-pound forward tallied 13 points (three goals, 10 assists) and 91 penalty minutes in 61 career AHL games with Manitoba. He spent four seasons playing for Brown University in the NCAA and was named to the ECAC All-Academic team his first three seasons before being named team captain for his senior season.

Volpatti was claimed off of waivers by Washington on Feb. 28. He was originally signed as an un-drafted free agent by Vancouver on March 22, 2010.

Day 2 From Vipers Spring Camp:

I missed the first two scrimmages this morning but stopped by the rink this afternoon to check out the final three games at the Vipers Spring Camp. 

In the third game of the day I watched Team Red knock off Team White 4-2.  Jared Marchi has some wheels, moves the puck well and has some skill, played well today for Team Red. 

In the fourth game of the day Team Blue come from behind to defeat Team Black 5-4 in a shoot-out.  Team Black was up 4-2 heading into the 3rd but gave up a late game tying goal with under three minutes remaining to force the shoot-out.  For the second straight day Jordan Werezak impressed me, playing very well between the pipes for Team Black.  Vipers forward Craig Martin & #21 (isnt listed on the lineup sheet) both played well for the second straight day.  D-man Mitch Dolman also played well for Team Black.  Vipers forward TJ Dumonceaux was buzzing this afternoon, even dropped the gloves in the only fight of the game.  #21 for Team Blue who isnt listed on the lineup sheet scored once, hit the post and generated some offensive skill today.  Was impressed with his play.

In the final game of the day Team Yellow defeated Team White 5-2 in a game where Team Yellow was just to strong and carried the better of the play.  Vipers forward Logan Mick dropped the mits in the lone fight of the game.  Goaltender Braden Krogfoss who has looked good all camp played very well today for Team White.  Allowed one soft goal but other wise was very good in the loss.  Matt Carr was impressive for Team Yellow on the blueline, jumped up into the play often.  Matthew Hill was very strong and Team Yellow's best player today.  Can skate, has some skill and really stood out in todays game. 

The third and final day of the Vipers Spring Camp will end tomorrow with just two games in the morning.

Former Viper Collins Named CCM Hockey AHCA Division 1 All-American:

Former Vernon Vipers forward Mike Collins is one of twenty Division 1 players named CCM Hockey AHCA Division 1 All-Americans.  Earlier this season Collins was 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 finished his third season at Merrimack College. In 38 games this season Collins has (17-21-38). 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 Hockey East website:
     
Six Hockey East Skaters Named CCM Hockey AHCA Division I All-Americans

April 12, 2013

BC's Johnny Gaudreau and Steven Whitney, UML's Chad Ruhwedel and UNH's

Trevor van Riemsdyk honored as First-Team selections
Twenty different Division I hockey-playing schools can celebrate players honored as CCM Hockey All Americans for the 2012-13 season. The nation's top 25 college hockey players were announced tonight at the NCAA Men's Division I Frozen Four in Pittsburgh, PA. Leading the way with three selections was St. Lawrence University, one earning First Team honors and the other two chosen on the Second Team. Three NCAA semifinalists —UMass Lowell, Quinnipiac, and Yale — each had a single honoree while the fourth, St. Cloud State, had a pair. Noteworthy this year:

- Only two players had been recognized previously: RPI senior defenseman Nick Bailen, a First Team choice this year, earned Second Team honors in 2011, while Western Michigan junior defenseman Dan DeKeyser repeated as a Second Team blueliner.

- There are a whopping 22 players from the United States, just two from Canada and one from Finland.

- The U.S. selections come from Minnesota (8), Michigan (4), Massachusetts (3), New Jersey (2), New York (2), California (1), Florida (1) and Maine (1). The Canadian honorees hail from Alberta (1) and Ontario (1).

- Ten of the honorees are seniors. Of the other 15, eight are juniors, five are sophomores and two are freshmen.

- The ECAC and WCHA each had seven All-Americans, followed by six from Hockey East and five from the CCHA.

- Fifteen players participated in the NCAA Tournament. Five of them advanced to the "Frozen Four."

The CCM HOCKEY ALL-AMERICAN ICE HOCKEY TEAMS are sponsored by CCM HOCKEY and chosen by members of the AMERICAN HOCKEY COACHES ASSOCIATION. CCM is the legendary hockey brand dedicated to the endless pursuit of performance by delivering game-changing, head-to-toe innovative hockey equipment to players worldwide.

First Team

East

Goalie

Eric Hartzell, SR, Quinnipiac University
(White Bear Lake, MN)

Defense

Nick Bailen, SR, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute#
(Fredonia, NY)

Chad Ruhwedel, JR, UMass Lowell
(San Diego, CA)

Trevor van Riemsdyk, SO, Univ. of New Hampshire
(Middletown, NJ)

Forward

Kyle Flanagan, SR, St. Lawrence University
(Canton, NY)

Johnny Gaudreau, SO, Boston College
(Carneys Point, NJ)

Steven Whitney, SR, Boston College
(Reading, MA)

West

Goalie

Brady Hjelle, SR, The Ohio State University
 (International Falls, MN)

Defense

Nick Jensen, JR, St. Cloud State University
 (Rogers, MN)

Jacob Trouba, FR, University of Michigan
 (Rochester, MI)

Forward

Austin Czarnik, SO, Miami University
(Washington, MI)

Danny Kristo, SR, University of North Dakota
(Eden Prairie, MN)

Drew LeBlanc, SR, St. Cloud State University
(Hermantown, MN)

Second Team

East

Goalie

Jon Gillies, FR, Providence College
(South Portland, ME)

Defense

Shayne Gostisbehere, SO, Union College
(Margate, FL)

George Hughes, SR, St. Lawrence University
(Westwood, MA)

Forward

Greg Carey, JR, St. Lawrence University
(Hamilton, ON)

Mike Collins, JR, Merrimack College
(Boston, MA)

Andrew Miller, SR, Yale University
(Bloomfield Hills, MI)

West

Goalie

Juho Olkinuora, SO, University of Denver
 (Helsinki, Finland)

Defense

Dan DeKeyser, JR, Western Michigan University*
(Clay Township, MI)

Nate Schmidt, JR, University of Minnesota
(St. Cloud, MN)

Forward

Corban Knight, SR, University of North Dakota
(High River, AB)

Anders Lee, JR, University of Notre Dame
 (Edina, MN)

Ryan Walters, JR, University of Nebraska-Omaha
(Rosemount, MN)

* Second Team in 2011-12; # Second Team in 2010-11

Day 1 From Vipers Spring Camp:

I stopped by the PV Arena this evening and caught the first day of the Vipers Spring Camp.  I missed some of the first game, arriving with five and a half minutes left in the 2nd period between Team White & Team Blue.  Team White was already ahead 5-3 before coming away with a 9-5 victory. 

Branson Schnieder played well between the pipes tonight.  TJ Dumonceaux scored once was one of the better players in this game.  Really stood out. 

In the second of three games Team Yellow defeated Team Red 9-3.  Team Yellow jumped out to an early 2-0 lead before Team Red got two back tying the game 2-2.  Team Yellow wouldnt end up picking up the win 9-3. 

Ryan Zeniuk played well, saw alot of ice time.  Good skater, moved the puck well.  Hunter Behrens is a big physical defenceman that tried laying out several big checks.  A little slow in his own end, needs some work defensively.  Vipers defenceman Bryce Eviston dropped the gloves in one of two fights at camp tonight.

In the third and final game of the night saw Team White score twice in the third period and hang on to a 5-4 win over Team Black.

Jordan Werezak was solid in goal for Team Black, making some big stops.  Craig Martin saw a ton of ice time made several nice moves but was unable to find the back of the net.  Looked very strong.

Former Vernon Vipers defenceman Brad Cook was at camp tonight, along with former Vipers defenceman Kevin Kraus, former Vernon Lakers goaltender Murray Caton, & former Vernon Vipers Head Coach-GM Mark Holick.

Several returning Vipers from this years team were either playing, coaching or in attendance watching.  Colton Sparrow, Danny Todosychuk, Brendan Persley, Austin Smith, Geoff Crisfield, Ryan Renz, Michael Roberts, Craig Martin, Logan Mick, TJ Dumonceaux & Bryce Eviston

Here is a look at all the teams rosters

*Each team has 1-2 Vipers on the roster that isnt listed

Team White:

Brandon Schnieder  96
Estevan Hale  95
Jacob MacLaughlin  96
Steven Fehr  97
Matt Halvorson  96
Arlyn Semeschuk  95
Kohl Bell  95
Ronald DeGuevara  95
Connor Gross  94
Nick Fidanza  96
Levi Johnson  97
Austin Fisher  95
Ryan Baim  95
Tyler Godberson  95
Matti Jmaeff  94
Braden Krogfoss  95

Team Blue:

Robert Friesen  95
Beau Browning  94
Alyn Nanji  96
Tyler Seabrooke  97
Alex Winters  97
Reece Steenson  95
Cortlan Procter  95
Dustin Kostiuk  96
Daylan Robertson  94
Jordan Passmore  96
Cory Santoro  96
Nicolas Guerra  96
Addison Bazian  97
Nick Landry  95
Dexter Robinson  97
Trevor Pereverzoff  96
Austin Hannaford  96

Team Red:

Chris Skeates  94
Easton Bodeaux  94
Kevin Massy  95
Michael Mceachern  96
Kenny Batke  95
Brett Stewart  96
Alex Tonge  95
Brian Rupp  94
Jared Marchi  95
Lien Miller-Jeannotte  96
Braden Eliuk  97
Austin Lindsay  96
Joe Falsetta  97
Jeran Knorr  97
Trey Doell  97
Tyson Klingspohn  96
Luke Vogrinetz  97

Team Yellow:

Samuel Mok  94
Matt Carr  94
Hunter Behrens  94
Michael Willms  95
Tyson Smith  95
Brett Robertshaw  95
Cooper Holick  96
Sebastien Barrette  96
Taylor Jordan  94
Matthew Hill  95
Ryan Zeniuk  96
Anthony Ruggiero  95
Logan Geefs  96
Hayden Chase  97
Tanner Campbell  97
Graham Millar  96
Jayden Campbell  95

Team Black:

Jordan Werezak  94
Mitch Dolman  95
Brenton Chilton  95
Carter Rhine  97
Austin Edwards  95
John Hume  97
Carson Richards  97
Connor Richards  95
Cole Golka  94
Ryan Kelm  96
Cordell Dickie  97
Brandon Sady  96
Linden Hora  96
Jason Richter  96
Blaine Caton  97
Gunnar Neilson  94

New Ownership Group Led By Former Vernon Laker-Viper Troy Mick Purchases Silverbacks:

The Salmon Arm SilverBacks ownership group of Randy and Terry Williams are pleased to announce that they have agreed to a deal in principal to the sell the club to a new ownership group led by former Vernon Laker-Viper Troy Mick.

Mick played two seasons with the Vernon Lakers (1984-1986) before playing with the Merritt Centennials was also an Assistant Coach with the Vernon Lakers for two seasons (1993-1995) & one season with the Vernon Vipers (1995-1996) before being named the Vipers Head Coach-GM the following season. Mick was Head Coach-GM of the Vipers for four years (1996-2000) before returning to the Vipers as GM for two years (2005-2007). Mick was drafted by the Pittsburgh Penguins in round 7 #130 overall at the 1988 NHL Entry Draft.

Troy Mick's Player-Coaching Profile:

http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=3701

This is posted on the Silverbacks website:

SilverBacks Sale Complete

Friday, April 26, 2013 - Submitted by SilverBacks Media

The Salmon Arm SilverBacks ownership group of Randy and Terry Williams are pleased to announce that they have agreed to a deal in principal to the sell the club to a new ownership group led by current General Manager Troy Mick.

The Williams family has owned the team for the past 6 seasons and has enjoyed great success both on and off the ice with 5 playoff appearances and over 40 NCAA scholarships during their tenure.

As part of the ownership transition the new group has decided not to renew Head Coach Scott Robinson’s contract. The SilverBacks would like to thank Scott for his contribution to the organization and wish him the best of luck in his future endeavors.

The new group led by Mick who will continue his duties as General Manager while adding the role of President and Head Coach at the request of the new ownership group which is set to take control of the organization as early as May 1st, pending final approvals.

Randy and Terry Williams would like to thank all of their partners, fans, volunteers and the entire community of Salmon Arm for their support over the past 6 seasons. They are very proud to pass the torch off to the new ownership group and wish the organization and the community of the Salmon Arm the best of luck moving forward.

Fans can get their first glimpse of the new look SilverBacks organization next week as Spring Camp kicks off on Friday May 3rd and concludes with the Top Prospects game on Sunday afternoon at 2pm.

Vernon Vipers 2013 Spring Camp Schedule:

This is posted on the Vipers website:

Spring Camp This Weekend

Friday, April 26, 2013 - Submitted by Viper Staff

The Vernon Vipers 2013 Spring Prospects Camp is set for this weekend at Priest Valley Arena.

Here is a schedule of the ice times for the weekend

APRIL 26TH

3:30 REGISTRATION

4:15 1 WHITE VS 2 BLUE

6:15  3 RED VS 4 YELLOW

8:15     5 BLACK VS 1 WHITE

APRIL 27TH

9:00     2 BLUE VS 3 RED

11:00   4 YELLOW VS 5 BLACK

1:00     1 WHITE VS 3 RED

3:00     2 BLUE VS  5 BLACK

5:00     1 WHITE VS 4 YELLOW

APRIL 28TH

9:00     5 BLACK VS 3 RED

11:00   4 YELLOW  VS  2 BLUE

Former Vernon Viper Deckert Named ECHL Goaltender Of The Week:

Former Vernon Vipers goaltender Jesse Deckert has been named the East Coast Hockey League's (ECHL) goaltender of the week. Deckert signed with the East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) Florida Everblades on March, 20th 2013 after signing a amateur tryout agreement on March 6th 2013. In nine games with Florida Deckert is 6-3 with a 3.38 GAA

Deckert spent the past four years at the University of Manitoba actually never played with the Vipers. Deckert left the WHL Tri-City Americans in November of 2004 joining the MJHL Swan Valley Stampeders. Deckert never actually played with the Stampeders before coming to Vernon where he practised with the Vipers before signing with the Salmon Arm Silverbacks where he would finish the 2004-2005 season.

Jesse Deckert's Player Profile:

http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=69065

This is posted on the ECHL website:

Deckert named Reebok Hockey ECHL Goaltender of the Week

ECHL-Press Releases

April 2, 2013

PRINCETON, N.J. - Jesse Deckert of the Florida Everblades is the Reebok Hockey ECHL Goaltender of the Week for March 25-30.

Along with Mathieu Roy, who earlier today was named ECHL Player of the Week, this marks the second time this season that the same team has had the Player and Goaltender of the Week for the same week.

The 26-year-old went 4-0-0 with a 2.00 goals-against average and a save percentage of .927 last week as the Everblades swept four games against Orlando.

Deckert made 22 saves in an 8-3 win on Tuesday, had 27 saves in a 3-1 victory on Wednesday, stopped 28 shots in a 5-1 win on Friday and made 25 saves in a 6-3 win on Saturday.

A native of Winnipeg, Manitoba, Deckert appeared in 11 games with the Everblades this season posting a record of 9-1-1 with a 2.40 goals-against average and a save percentage of .916.

Deckert joined the Everblades on March 6 after wrapping up his collegiate career at the University of Manitoba where he won 24 games over his four-year career.
           
Runners Up: Chris Rawlings, Idaho (1-0-0, 0.60 GAA, .975 save pct.) and Kent Simpson, Toledo (2-0-0, 1.80 GAA, .935 save pct).
           
Also Nominated: James Reid (Evansville), Jeff Deslauriers (Fort Wayne), Louis Domingue (Gwinnett), Joel Martin (Kalamazoo), Mitch O’Keefe (Las Vegas), Mike Condon (Ontario), Ryan Zapolski (South Carolina), Olivier Roy (Stockton), Ben Meisner (Toledo) and Scott Darling (Wheeling).

Former Vernon Lakers Captain Ramsay Feels Pain Of Another Lost Season:

Former Vernon Lakers captain & current Head Coach-GM of the CHL Tulsa Oilers Bruce Ramsay talks about another tough season in Tulsa as the Oilers miss the playoffs for a second year in a row.  Ramsay picked up his 300th career coaching victory on January 18th 2013. Ramsay finished his fourth season with the Tulsa Oilers.  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 Tulsa World website:

Oilers feel pain of another lost season

By JOHN RITTENOURE World Correspondent on Apr 11, 2013

For the second year in a row and the seventh time in eight years, the Tulsa Oilers

With a record of 22-39-5, the Oilers finished this year's campaign in last place. And during the final weeks of the season, there was unrest among some of the fans. Oilers owner Jeff Lund would not address the season that just ended, but coach Bruce Ramsay could feel the fans' pain.

"It was a disappointing year, and I know some fans are not very happy and I don't blame them," said Ramsay, who took the Oilers to the playoffs in his second season as coach (2011). "It is a situation I am not used to being in and don't ever want to again. It is tough to be in this situation. It is very disappointing.

"When I look over my career of 23 years as a coach and player, this is by far the worst I have gone through."

Ramsay, who just completed his fourth season as Oilers coach, cited several reasons for the Oilers' dismal season.

"We went through a lot of adversity," Ramsay said. "We started off fine, but with the NHL lockout and the players that were here, the league (CHL) was incredibly stacked and there was not an easy game. The quality of the league was incredible this year and you have to have that depth to sustain a winning season.

"We started out 6-5 then went on a downhill slide."
missed the Central Hockey League playoffs.
After hovering near .500 early in the season, the Oilers went on a nine-game skid and never recovered.

Tulsa ended the season ranked 10th in the CHL in goals scored (177) and 10th in goals against (254).

"I credit that to losing some key players that were hard to replace," said Ramsay of injuries that plagued the team. "Our goaltending was not what it was at the last half of the season with Shane Madolora. Later in the season, over a 12-game stretch, we had the best record in the league, then we had some key injuries come back and haunt us.

"We did not have the depth and played shorthanded the last two-thirds of the season."

The NHL lockout was another factor that several CHL teams, especially league-leading Allen, benefited from by acquiring players from the American Hockey League.

Tulsa does not have an AHL affiliation.
"Several teams got a lot of players available to them that they would not have had if the NHL was not locked out," Ramsay said. "They (Allen) had a lot of players from the AHL going up and down all year that really helped them."

However, affiliations don't always work out.
"Some affiliations don't work out and some do," Ramsay said. "It all depends on what the parent club has available to give. If an AHL team has a lot of extra players and they send them down to you, that is great. But in a lot of cases, you will be dealing with a team that does not have many extra players and then they start taking players from you."

There was light at the end of the tunnel with some late-season roster changes. But the Oilers could not crawl out of the hole they dug for themselves.

"I lost some key defensemen early on in the season," recalled Ramsay. "We improved when we brought in guys like Jeff Buvinow and (Ryan) Blaylock. We just never had the depth we needed to be successful throughout the season."

Ramsay is more determined than ever to rebuild the Oilers and feels, if a few key players return, he can build on that.

"I believe there is a good quality core of players on our team if we can bring them back and build around them," he said. "No matter what our record showed, the guys worked hard to the end."

Jackals Release Former Vernon Vipers Forward Elser:

The East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) Elmira Jackals have released former Vernon Vipers forward Brian Elser. No official release other then it being posted on March 22nd 2013 on the ECHL transactions page on the ECHL website. Elser was placed on reserve March 13th 2013. In four games with the Jackals Elser had just one assist.

Elser started the season with the Southern Professional League's (SPHL) Fayetteville FireAntz playing in 22 games collecting (9-8-17) before being waived on March 5th 2013.

While playing with the FireAntz Elser was called up to the East Coast Hockey League's (ECHL) Gwinnett Gladiators signing a one game contract on January, 15th 2013 before returning to Fayetteville after playing just one game. Elser then signed with the East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) South Carolina Stingrays on February, 6th 2013 before being released on February, 27th 2013. In seven games with the Stingrays Elser collected (1-1-2).

The Vipers scouted Elser who was 18 at the time, at the U.S. Midget championships in Buffalo. Elser attended the 2008-2009 Vipers training camp making the Vipers opening day roster before being traded on September, 12th 2008 to the AJHL Drayton Valley Thunder for future considerations (cash) and a player to be named next year. In two games with the Vipers Elser collected one assist. Rumor was Elser didnt report to the Thunder and his rights were given back to Vernon. On August, 7th 2009 the Vipers traded Elser and future considerations to Victoria for Jonathan Milhouse.

Brian Elser's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=47131
   

Stingrays Activate Fomer Vipers Defenceman Cam Brodie Off Reserve:

The East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) South Carolina Stingrays have activated former Vernon Vipers defenceman Cam Brodie off reserve. No official press release other then the transaction being posted on March 30th 2013 wich was posted on the ECHL website. Brodie was placed on reserve on March 18th 2013. In 18 regular season games with the Stingrays Brodie has (1-3-4).

Brodie started the season with the East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) Stockton Thunder before being traded on January 25th 2013 to South Caroline. Brodie was in his third season with the Thunder. In 30 games this season with Stockton Brodie collected (1-6-7). Brodie played in 52 games with the Thunder last year as well as three games with the AHL Texas Stars before returning to Stockton. In 52 regular season games with the Thunder Brodie collected 0-7-7 & collected just one assist in eight playoff games. In 4 games with the Stingrays this season Brodie has (0-2-2). Brodie played parts of one season in Vernon (2008-2009) after being aquired from the Coquitlam Express at the BCHL trade deadline.

Cameron Brodie's Player Profile:

http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=81370

Former Vernon Viper Tambellini Named Player Of The Week:

Tambellini's Cup-clinching goal seals Gongshow POW nod too
 
Monday, April 22, 2013 - Submitted by BCHL Media

Surrey Eagles forward Adam Tambellini has been named the Gongshow BCHL Player of the Week for the week ending April 21, the league announced Monday.

Tambellini scored the Fred Page Cup-clinching goal in double overtime for the Eagles as they defeated the Penticton Vees in Game 6 to claim the BCHL title. The Port Moody native also had an assist in the game to go along with another he chalked up in Game 3.

The 6-foot-4, 180-pound forward wound up the leading goalscorer in the playoffs with 10 goals to go along with eight assists. His 18 points placed him third in playoff points.

Honourable mentions this week go to:

Surrey Eagles G Michael Santaguida (2W, .941 sv%, 1.36 GAA, three 2nd Stars)

Penticton Vees D Sean Flanagan (two FortisBC Energy Player of the Games honours)

Penticton Vees F Sam Mellor (3A)

Surrey Eagles F Michael Stenerson (3A, led playoff scoring)

Penticton Vees F John Siemer (2A, 1st Star, FortisBC Energy Player of the Game)

Vernon Vipers 2013 Spring Camp Dates Announced:

Just a reminder, that the Vipers Spring Camp will be held this coming weekend.

This was posted on the Vipers website back in late January:

Spring Camp Dates Announced

Friday, January 25, 2013 - Submitted by Viper Staff

The Vernon Vipers are pleased to announce the dates of there 2013 Spring Camp. The camp will run from Friday April 26 to Sunday April 28th.

The camp is open to players born between the years of 1994-1998. All players will be compete in 4 games. Please download a registration form and sent it back to our office to guarantee a spot in the camp

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

Former Viper Tambellini Scores OT Winner As Eagles Win Fred Page Cup:

Former Vernon Vipers forward Adam Tambellini added an assist and scored the overtime winner at 2:35 giving the Surrey Eagles a 3-2 double overtime win over the Penticton Vees tonight to help the Eagles win the 2013 Fred Page Cup in six games.  The Eagles now move on to Nanaimo for the WCC.  Tambellini played his first year with the Vipers last season before being traded to Surrey on the BCHL trade deadline in January.  In 17 playoff games with the Eagles Tambellini has (10-8-18)

Adam Tambellini's Player Profile:

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/rosters_profile.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&teamID=339737&playerID=821203

Wranglers Release Former Vernon Vipers Defenceman Florentino:

The East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) Las Vegas Wranglers
have released former Vernon Vipers defenceman Rob Florentino. No official press release other then the transaction posted on the transactions page on March, 25th 2013 on the ECHL website.  The Wranglers signed Florentino on March 6th 2013.  Florentino went pointless in eleven games with Las Vegas.  Florentino is now eligible for waivers/waiver claims. 

Florentino attended the Vernon Vipers 2009 Training Camp playing in a few exhibition games before being released. The Vipers with already the league limit six twenty year olds at that time were forced to release Florentino who was twenty. Florentino later signed with the Victoria Grizzlies where he started the 2009-2010 regular season.

Rob Florentino's Player Profile:

http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=116614

Former Vipers Forward Reaney Advances To CHL Finals:

Former Vernon Vipers forward Les Reaney and the Central Hockey League's (CHL) Wichita Thunder have advanced to the CHL Finals (Ray Miron President Cup) for the sixth time in franchise history with a 3-1 victory over the Fort Worth Brahmas tonight sweeping the best of seven series Conference Semifinals 4-0.   

In 47 regular season games this year with the Thunder Reaney collected (9-13-22). In 7 playoff games this season Reaney has (4-3-7). Reaney spent parts of the last five seasons with the CHL Rapid City Rush before being traded to Wichita in November. In 52 regular season games with the Rush last season, Reaney collected 14 goals, 30 assists & 44 points. Reaney played parts of two seasons in Vernon (2002-2004) after coming over to the Vipers in a trade with the Alberni Valley Bulldogs. In 2003-04 Reaney along with Jordan Starke were traded at the BCHL trade deadline to Williams Lake for Jeff Royston.

Les Reneay Player Profile:

http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=76516

This is posted on the CHL website:

Wichita Advances to Ray Miron Presdients' Cup Finals

Wichita Thunder Earns Spot in Ray Miron Presidents’ Cup Finals

GLENDALE, AZ (April 20, 2013) – The Wichita Thunder have earned a spot in the Ray Miron Presidents’ Cup Finals for the second consecutive season thanks to their Conference Semifinals series sweep over the Fort Worth Brahmas.  The Thunder will make their second consecutive trip to the Finals and their fifth visit overall.  Wichita has two CHL titles to their credit (defeated Tulsa in 1994 and defeated San Antonio in 1995). 

The Thunder clinched their berth thanks to a 3-1 victory over the Brahmas on Saturday night at the NYTEX Sports Centre in Game 4 of their series.  It was Wichita’s eighth straight win tying the CHL record for the longest post-season win streak (Oklahoma City won eight straight games in the 1999 playoffs and the WPHL’s Lubbock Cotton Kings won eight straight games in 2001).

Prior to beating the Brahmas in four straight games, the Thunder defeated the Arizona Sundogs in the Opening Round in four straight contests.

Wichita will await the winner of the Allen Americans/Missouri Mavericks Conference Semifinals series which currently sits with the Americans leading three games to two as the series heads back to Allen for Game 6 on Monday night and Game 7, if necessary, on Tuesday night.

The Thunder finished the regular season with a 39-19-8 record (86 points) finishing second overall in the CHL standings trailing the Americans by one point (39-18-9).

The Ray Miron Presidents’ Cup Final’s schedule will be announced at the conclusion of the other semifinals series.
  
Follow all the CHL playoff news, notes and happenings on www.centralhockeyleague.com and at the CHL’s Playoff Headquarters.

Brahmas Sign Former Vernon Viper Forward Chytka:

The Central Hockey League's (CHL) Fort Worth Brahmas have
signed former Vernon Vipers forward Petr Chytka.  No official press release other then it being posted on March 23rd 2013 on the transactions page on the CHL website.  Chytka hasnt played professionally since the 2003-2004 season in his native Czech Republic.  Chytka played two seasons in Vernon (1997-1999) In 92 regular season games with the Vipers Chytka collected (30-43-73). 

Petr Chytka's Player Profile:

http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=49706

Former Vipers Marketing Manager Joins Bannister Honda Sales Team:

In todays Morning Star Newspaper Pat Loehndorf General Manager at Bannister Honda announced former Vernon Vipers marketing manager Paula Coulter who finished her second and final season as the Vipers marketing manager to the Bannister Honda sales team.  Paula announced at the Vipers final home game that she wont be back with the Vipers next season. 

To visit Paula or the rest of the team at Bannister Honda visit their website,

http://www.bannisterhonda.com/index.php

Former Viper Forward Reaney Named CHL Oakley Third Star:

Former Vernon Vipers forward Les Reaney was named the Central Hockey League's (CHL) Oakley 3rd star today.   (Posted on the CHL website).  Reaney scored once last night in a 3-0 win over the Fort Worth Brahmas to put the Wichita Thunder in a comanding 3-0 series lead in the best of seven Conference Semifinals.  Each day the Central Hockey League names three stars from the previous night's games.   

In 47 regular season games this year with the Thunder Reaney collected (9-13-22).  In 7 playoff games this season Reaney has (4-2-6).  Reaney spent parts of the last five seasons with the CHL Rapid City Rush before being traded to Wichita in November. In 52 regular season games with the Rush last season, Reaney collected 14 goals, 30 assists & 44 points. Reaney played parts of two seasons in Vernon (2002-2004) after coming over to the Vipers in a trade with the Alberni Valley Bulldogs. In 2003-04 Reaney along with Jordan Starke were traded at the BCHL trade deadline to Williams Lake for Jeff Royston.

Les Reneay Player Profile:

http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=76516

This is posted on the Thunders website:

Thunder Defeat Brahmas 3-0; One Win Away from Second-Straight Finals
Appearance

Posted on April 18, 2013

North Richland, TX (April 18th) -  Torrie Jung has embraced his role as the starting netminder for the Thunder over the last few months and stood tall in net again, earning his second career post-season shutout and helping the Thunder (7-0) win 3-0 on Thursday night over the Fort Worth Brahmas (4-4) at the NYTEX Sports Centre. Matt Robinson, Matt Summers and Les Reaney each scored for the Thunder. Wichita will have its first chance to close out the series on Saturday night in Game 4.

The first period began as expected, a tight defensive battle with both teams limiting each other with shots from the outside. Fort Worth had a couple of good looks from behind the Thunder cage, but Torrie Jung was up to the task on a few wrap-around chances from Phil Fox and Colin Mulvey.

18 seconds into the second period, Wichita took a 1-0 lead when Matt Robinson caught a long outlet pass from RG Flath, made a terrific move away from a defender at the right circle and sniped a wrist shot over the blocker of Brad Fogal. It was the first power play goal given up in three games by the Brahmas at home.

In the third period, Wichita added two goals to pull away from Fort Worth. Reaney scored at 13:19 after catching a centering pass at the left circle, walked in all alone and beat Fogal through the five-hole to push the lead to 2-0. The Brahmas desperately pulled their goaltender with just over two minutes left, but it was all for not as Summers collected a loose puck at the red line and found the empty net to seal it at 3-0.

Wichita set new franchise records with the victory, winning seven-straight playoff games and nine-straight that includes the last two games of the regular season. Summers was the only Thunder forward with two or more points, finishing with a goal and an assist. Jung stopped all 29 shots he faced and improved to 7-0 in the post-season. Fogal took the loss, stopping 22 of 24 shots he faced.

CHL Conference Semi-Finals – Series "F" (best-of-7)

Fort Worth Brahmas vs. Wichita Thunder

Game 1 – Wednesday, April 10th – Fort Worth at Wichita, 4-1 W
Game 2 – Thursday, April 11th – Fort Worth at Wichita, 4-3 W
Game 3 – Thursday, April 18th – Wichita at Fort Worth, 3-0 W
Game 4 – Saturday, April 20th – Wichita at Fort Worth, 7:30 p.m.
*Game 5 – Sunday, April 21st – Fort Worth at Wichita, 5:05 p.m.
*Game 6 – Tuesday, April 23rd – Wichita at Fort Worth, 7:00 p.m.
*Game 7 – Wednesday, April 24th – Fort Worth at Wichita, 7:05 p.m.

Thunder leads series 3-0

*if necessary
(All times Central)

Wichita looks to close out the series on Saturday night in Game 4 at the NYTEX Sports Centre at 7:30 p.m. If necessary, The Thunder would host Game 5 on Sunday, April 21st at 5:05 p.m. For tickets, call 755-SEAT, visit the INTRUST Bank Arena box office or online at www.selectaseat.com .

Nailers Place Former Viper Zurevinski On Injured Reserve:

The East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) Wheeling Nailers
have placed former Vernon Vipers forward Scott Zurevinski on the 21 day injured reserve. No official press release other then it being posted on March 20th 2013 on the transactions page on the ECHL website.

Zurevinski signed with the American Hockey League (AHL) Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins in early August but never played a game before the season started being sent down to the East Coast Hockey Leagues Wheeling Nailers. In 49 games this season with the Nailers Zurevinski has (12-13-25).

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

Former Vernon Viper Schepers Eliminated From Allen Cup:

Former Vernon Vipers forward Aaron Schepers
and the Fort St. John Flyers were eliminated from the Allen Cup after a 8-2 loss to the hands of the Kenora Thistles in todays Quarter final.  Schepers picked up one assist in three games.  The Flyers finish the round robin tournament going 1-2.

For more on the 2013 Allen Cup visit the league website,

http://www.allancup.ca/   

For more on the Fort St. John Flyers visit the teams website,

http://www.fsjflyers.ca/

Schepers played one season in Vernon (2004-2005) before being traded the following season to the Alberni Valley Bulldogs. In 44 regular season games with the Vipers Schepers collected (5-4-9).

Aaron Schepers Player Profile:

http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=83862

Eagles Activate Former Vipers Defenceman Smeltzer Off Reserve:

The East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) Colorado Eagles
have activated former Vernon Vipers defenceman Isaac Smeltzer off reserve. No official press release other then it being posted on April 1st 2013 on the ECHL transactions page on the ECHL website.  Smeltzer was placed on reserve on March 22nd 2013. Smeltzer is in his second season with the Eagles. Smeltzer signed a amateur tryout contract with the Eagles last year (March.14th 2012) after completing his fourth season at Brock University before re-signing with the Eagles this season. In 58 games this year with Colorado Smeltzer has (2-5-7). Smeltzer played his first three and a half seasons in the BCHL with the Alberni Valley Bulldogs before being traded to Vernon in his final season of Junior hockey (2007-2008). Alberni Valley traded Smeltzer to Vernon on November, 29th 2007 for forward, Evan Witt and defenceman, Eliot Raibl. Smeltzer collected (6-17-23) in 29 regular season games with the Vipers.

Isaac Smeltzer's Player Profile:

http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=80371 

Everblades Sign Former Vipers Goaltender Deckert:

The East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) Florida Everblades
have signed former Vernon Vipers goaltender Jesse Deckert.  No official press release other then the transaction posted on the transactions page on March, 20th 2013 on the ECHL website.  The Everblades signed Deckert to an amateur tryout agreement on March 6th 2013.  In six games with Florida Deckert is 4-2 with a 3.54 GAA

Deckert spent the past four years at the University of Manitoba actually never played with the Vipers. Deckert left the WHL Tri-City Americans in November of 2004 joining the MJHL Swan Valley Stampeders. Deckert never actually played with the Stampeders before coming to Vernon where he practised with the Vipers before signing with the Salmon Arm Silverbacks where he would finish the 2004-2005 season.

Jesse Deckert's Player Profile:

http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=69065

Komets Release Former Vipers Defenceman Nycholat:

The East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) Fort Wayne Komets have released former Vernon Vipers defenceman Dan Nycholat. No official press release but the transaction was posted on the ECHL transactions page March 21st 2013. Nycholat was placed on reserve on March.3rd 2013 before being released.  In 60 games with the Komets Nycholat collected (2-16-18). Nycholat is now eligible for waivers/waiver claims.   

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

Former Vipers Defenceman Noonan Will Return For Final Year Of College Hockey:

Former Vernon Vipers defenceman Garrett Noonan will return to Boston University next year for his fourth and final year of College Hockey.  Noonan finished his third season at Boston University. In 34 games this season Noonan collected (6-13-19). 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: Garrett Noonan Will Return to BU Next Season

Posted on April 1, 2013

by Jashvina Shah/Staff Beat Reporter

Boston University men’s hockey defenseman Garrett Noonan will return to the Terriers for his senior season, the junior told WTBU Sports on Monday night.

The 22-year-old said his main goal is to win a championship.

He was drafted by Nashville in the fourth round of the 2011 NHL Entry Draft and has accrued 61 points (26g, 35a) over three years and 110 games at BU.

As a sophomore in 2011-12, Noonan was tied for first in the nation in goal scoring amongst defensemen. He finished that year with 16 goals and 27 points.

This season, the Norfolk, Mass. native tallied 19 points and was named an assistant captain after the first half of the 2012-13 season.

He missed the Hockey East Quarterfinals with a separated shoulder but returned for the Hockey East Semifinals, where he tallied BU’s go-ahead goal in the second period en route to a 5-3 comeback win over BC.

The junior also missed two games after he was suspended for spearing UMass-Lowell’s Doug Carr.

Former Viper Murphy Wins Prestigious Aaward:

This is posted on the Vipers website:

Kyle Murphy Wins Prestigious Aaward
 
Sunday, April 14, 2013 - Submitted by Don Klepp

Kyle Murphy, a prominent member of the  2010-11 Viper  championship team, has been named the Derek Hines Unsung Hero Award Winner, by the Hockey Commissioners Association (HCA) at the NCAA Frozen Four in Pittsburgh.

Hines, a former co-captain of the Army hockey team, was acknowledged as a"consummate team player and team builder." He was killed in the line of duty in Afghanistan in September 2005.

In accepting the award, Kyle said, I am extremely honored and deeply humbled to accept the Derek Hines Unsung Hero Award," Murphy said. "Derek was a great hockey player but, more importantly, he was an extraordinary person. Derek's infectious personality, natural leadership ability and genuine spirit truly embody the perfect teammate and I will strive each day to live my own life as Derek so selflessly lived his."

All NCAA Division 1 hockey players are eligible for award, which is coordinated by the Hockey Commissioners Association. Each of the six hockey conferences nominates a player to a national ballot. From there, sports information directors from each conference vote on a winner, "who displays exemplary sportsmanship, is supremely competitive, intelligent and extraordinarily conditioned with an unmatched work ethic. The contributions of this individual, on and off the ice, cannot be measured by statistics alone."

In the year that he played with the Vipers, Kyle earned an "A" in each of the 10 online  university classes he took in order to satisfy the NCAA transfer rules. After graduating from the Vipers, Kyle accepted a spot at Providence College. Before the 2011-12 season, word came from the NCAA that even though he excelled while taking a heavy course load while with the Vipers, Kyle was ruled a partial qualifier and allowed to participate only in Friar practices for the season.

The adversity did not deter him. He was often cited by Coach Nate Leaman as the hardest day-in and day-out worker in practice. Murphy's work ethic and leadership was so persistent throughout the 2011-12 season that before the 2012-13 season - without having played a game for the Friars - Murphy was named the team captain.

"Kyle has been extremely influential over the last two years in turning this program into a top-four program in Hockey East this season, bringing all the attributes of a winner to the team," Head Coach Nate Leaman said.

Kyle's leadership and contagious work ethic was part of the reason the 2012-13 Friars – with the second-most freshmen in the country (13) – entered the last weekend of the regular season in contention for the Hockey East title for the first time ever. Kyle and the Friars went on to earn home ice for the Hockey East Quarterfinals (for the first time in 10 seasons) and advanced to the Hockey East Championship Semi-finals for the second consecutive season.

While with the Vipers, Kyle received two honors at the 2011 Viper Awards night - Unsung Hero and Academic Excellence. He will graduate this spring from Providence College with a BS in finance. In 2012 he was a Hockey East All-Academic selection.

Mustangs Name Former Vipers Forward Fauchoux Rookie Of The Year:

The SJHL Melfort Mustangs recently held their year end awards
banquet with former Vernon Vipers forward Adam Fauchoux winning Rookie of the Year.   Fauchoux in his first year with the Mustangs played in 48 games collecting (5-14-19).

Fauchoux played the last two seasons with the Prince Albert Mintos attended the Vernon Vipers Training camp this season playing in three exhibition games before being released before the start of the BCHL regular season. Fauchoux signed with the Cowichan Valley Capitals just days after being released by the Vipers. Fauchoux went pointless in two games with the Capitals before being traded to Melfort on September 19th 2012.     

Adam Fauchoux's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=120092

This is posted on the Mustangs Blog:

Mustangs Hand Out Hardware

Posted on 03/21/2013

by bjcrowe

The Melfort Mustangs held their season wind-up at the Kerry Vickar Centre last night.

Jesse Wilkins was named the teams MVP while Godric Tham earned Playoff MVP Honors.

Governor Jim Arsenie says the bottom line will be helped after their playoff run, and the board is excited to see what the future holds for the team.

2012/2013 Award Winners

Community Involvement – Sheldon Argent, Regan Wilton.

Most Improved Player – Cole Hyrsky

Most Spirited Player – Bryden Serafini

Fans Choice Award – Sheldon Argent

Most Dedicated Player – Jesse Wilkins

Hardest Working Player – Brandon Sloan

Top Scorer – Brandon Sloan

3 Star Selection Award – Jesse Wilkins

Rookie of the Year – Adam Fauchoux

Most Valuable Defenseman – Matt Saunderson

Kyle Johnson Memorial Scholarship – Brandon Parrone

Joel Dennis Memorial Award – Jay Aasen

Crunch Award (Most Hits) – Sheldon Argent

Top Defensive Defenseman – Cody Brown

Top Defensive Forward – Anthony Pickering

Playoff MVP – Godric Tham

Most Valuable Player – Jesse Wilkins

Wolves Trade Former Viper Forward Schneider To Peoria:

The American Hockey League (AHL) Chicago Wolves have
traded former Vernon Vipers forward Stefan Schneider to the AHL Peoria Rivermen on Tuesday.  In 32 games with the Wolves this season Schneider has collected (2-6-8).  Schneider also played eight games with the East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) Kalamazoo Wings after being loaned on November 26th 2012.  In eight games with the Wings Schneider picked up (1-1-2).  

The Vancouver Canucks signed the free agent Vernon product on March, 29th 2010. Schneider played five games as an "AP" with the Vipers during the 2006-2007 season. In five games with the Vipers Schneider went pointless.

Stefan Schneider's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=32782

This is posted on the Rivermen website:

RIVERMEN ACQUIRE SCHNEIDER AND LONGPRE

April 9, 2013

Peoria Rivermen General Manager Kevin McDonald announced today the club has acquired forwards Stefan Schneider and Nathan Longpre from the Chicago Wolves in exchange for defenseman Brent Regner.

Schneider, 23, has seven points (two goals, five assists) in 32 games this season for Chicago and two points (one goal, one assist) in eight games with ECHL Kalamazoo. The 6'5", 214-pound forward has appeared in 125 AHL games over the past three seasons with Manitoba and Chicago. He has registered eight goals and 12 assists and 27 penalty minutes over his AHL career.  Signed by Vancouver as an undrafted free agent, Schneider played three seasons in the Western Hockey League before turning pro.

Longpre, 24, has collected 12 points (four goals, eight assists) and 23 penalty minutes in 53 games for the Wolves this season. The 6'1", 194-pound forward has played for Worcester, Springfield and Chicago over the past three seasons. In 120 AHL games, the Peterborough, Ontario native has 15 goals and 19 assists and 37 penalty minutes. He played college hockey at Robert Morris University where he finished in 2011 as the school's all-time leader in assists (91) and points (138).

Regner, 23, played in 66 games this year for Peoria - his first with the organization. He registered three goals and 15 assists while also leading all Rivermen defensemen with a plus-4 rating