Monday, September 30, 2013

Ice Bucks Sign Former Vipers Defenceman Waddell:

The HC Nikko Ice Bucks have signed former Vernon Vipers defenceman Matt Waddell.  The Ice Bucks are an Asia League Ice Hockey team based in Nikkō, Tochigi, Japan.  Waddell played last season in Italy with HC Alleghe.  HC Alleghe is a professional ice hockey team in Alleghe, Italy.  Waddell played two years in Vernon (2001-2003).  In 110 games with the Vipers Waddell collected (9-44-53).

Matt Waddell's Player Profile:

http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=75413

This is posted on the Ice Bucks website:

New foreigner of two Caesar to joining an organization

13.07.24.

H.C. Nikko, Tochigi ice Bucks,

Matt Waddell comments

After graduation University (NCAA), I joined Charlotte checkers (ECHL) and started a carrier as the professional player.  The same year, Hartford wolf pack (AHL) equal to the minor team of the National Hockey League (NHL) becoming the world highest peak league I am similar and play. 

I moved the place of the activity in the Europe and belonged to ポンテバ (Italy) in 2011-2012 seasons and pulled a team as adjutant general afterwards. 

I feel that I had the opportunity when I can play by sunlight to be very honored.] 
When I had you call out to me, the enthusiasm from the team came and was able to decide it immediately. 

I want to contribute to age of the success of the team while looking forward to Japanese new culture and life. 

In addition, Garrett Ben bridge player (FW, uniform number 41, an alien registration player) who played in the last season in sunlight ice Bucks and, Service is temporarily unavailable!

As for this season, I fight by 22 player systems including ワデル, Caesar by a season.
 

Komets Re-Sign Former Vipers Forward Marino:

The East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) Fort Wayne Komets have re-signed former Vernon Vipers forward Brandon Marino.

Marino finished his first season in the ECHL after signing with the Komets last year on July, 17th 2012. In 71 games last season Marino collected (20-54-74). The Komets named Marino the teams MVP at the end of the season. Marino was invited to the AHL Norfolk Admirals training camp on September, 26th 2012 but was released on October, 4th 2012. Marino was then called up to the Admirals but only played in one game before being released.

Marino spent the last three seasons with the Central Hockey League (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 add five players to roster

07/09/2013

Fort Wayne, IN ---  The Komets announced Tuesday the addition of five forwards to the 2013-14 roster.

Last year's team MVP Brandon Marino (RW) has agreed to terms for the upcoming campaign.  Fan favorite Kaleigh Schrock (RW) has also inked an agreement along with forwards Mickey Lang, Matthew Larke and Kyle Bochek.

Marino, 27, will be starting his second season with the Komets and fifth as a pro.  The Riverside, California native posted a career high 54 assists last season while leading the Komets with 74 points in 71 games.  In addition to being named the K's Most Valuable Player, Marino also received Fort Wayne's Mr. Hustle Award for the year.  Marino also made his American Hockey League (AHL) debut last season appearing in one game with the Norfolk Admirals.

Schrock, 28, is entering his fifth pro year, all with Fort Wayne.  He began his pro career when he joined the Komets for the 2009-10 IHL season and collected his first league championship while be named the Komets' Rookie of the Year.  Schrock won a second league title in 2011-12 with the Komets before making his ECHL debut with the K's last season.  The right winger scored 10 goals last year and added 10 assists for 20 points while accumulating a career high 168 penalty minutes.

Lang, 26, led Quad City of the Central Hockey League (CHL) last season with career highs of 41 goals (2nd in the CHL), 42 assists, 83 points (fourth in the CHL) and +20 in 64 regular season games.  The center led CHL special teams with 11 game-winning goals and six short-handed tallies.  The Hillsdale, New Jersey native also made his AHL debut last season appearing in one game with the Rockford IceHogs.  Lang was honored with a spot on the 2012-13 CHL All-Star Team and was named to the All-CHL Team.  2013-14 will be Lang's third pro season as he makes his ECHL debut with Fort Wayne.

Larke, 26, will be skating his fourth pro season this year when he dons the Komet jersey in October.  The Oxford, Michigan native  made his pro debut in 2010-11 with Dayton in the CHL where he appeared for two seasons.  Last year Larke ranked third with Bloomington in the CHL scoring a career high 47 points (19 goals, 28 assists) in 53 games.  2013-14 will be Larke's his first season in the ECHL.

Bochek (BOE-check), 25, will also debut in the ECHL this season as a member of the Komets. The Port Severn, Ontario native has appeared in the CHL the last four seasons.  Bochek started his pro career with Missouri in 2009-10 before skating two seasons (2010-11, 2011-12) with the Dayton Gems where he led in penalty minutes each year.  The fifth-year pro skated 55 games with Bloomington last year scoring 12 goals, 37 points and 121 penalty minutes. 

The Komets' 2013-14 roster grows to seven players with the addition of Marino, Schrock, Lang, Larke and Bochek.  Previously announced were Matt Firman (F) and Mathieu Gagnon (D).

The Komets will open 2013-14 at home against the Toledo Walleye Saturday, Oct. 19 at 7:30pm.  The Komets' 62nd season in Fort Wayne features 36 home games while 36 road games are on the docket.  View the entire 72-game schedule here. 

Komet Hockey Season tickets for 2013-14 are on sale at the Komet office, 1010 Memorial Way in Fort Wayne, Indiana.  For ticket information visit komets.com or call the Komet office at 260-483-0011.

Sunday, September 29, 2013

Building A Champion-Road To The Royal Bank Cup Video-Part 2 ‘New Faces’

Building A Champion – ‘New Faces’

Posted by HockeyTube on Sep 23rd, 2013

In episode 2 of Building A Champion: Road To The RBC, the Vernon Vipers welcome a number of new faces to the team including a new assistant coach and marketing director. Plus the players arrive for the first day of training camp.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JE_Gvxe_76M

If you are new to the series…watch last years six part series

http://www.hockeytube.net/category/feature-videos-that-are-trending-right-now/hockeytube-nets-original-series/

Vipers Brush Back Surrey:

This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:

Vipers brush back Surrey

Published: September 28, 2013

They raised the Fred Page Cup banner to the rafters Friday night at South Surrey Arena.

The Vernon Vipers, perhaps unfazed by the B.C. Hockey League celebration since their rink houses several such pennants, spoiled the joyous mood by smothering the Surrey Eagles 4-1 before 900 fans.

It was the second straight win for the Vipers, who entertained the Eagles Saturday night at Kal Tire Place. Vernon, still with 20-year-olds Ryan Renz, Josh Bryan and Colton Sparrow, moved to 3-2-1-2 and a share of third place in the Interior Division with the Trail Smoke Eaters (4-3-0-1).

Associate coach Kris Mallette called it a greasy road win which while hardly glamourous, kept the Vipers’ sudden swagger going forward.

“The guys are feeding off the fact that we’re getting things done,” said Mallette. “It starts with the staff and (head coach/GM Williamson) Jason has a jump in his step and he’s been feeling it (pressure after a poor start to the season) the most.”

The Vipers skated well on the Olympic-size ice in a game with few bodychecks and another goal from rookie defenceman Mark Hamilton.

“Mark didn’t have any goals last year (high school hockey in Boston) and he’s got a hot stick right now. His shots are getting through. His shot last night hit their guy and trickled through. It’s never a bad play to put the puck on net.”

Hamilton, a 6-foot-3, 220-pounder, has three goals on the season. He gave Vernon the lead 93 seconds into the first period.

Dexter Dancs, who has also found a scoring groove, netted his fifth, on the powerplay, on a back-door play with 4:07 left in the second period. D-man Jason Bird and centre Michael McNicholas pocketed assists on the 2-0 goal.

Former Eagle Mason Blacklock added two late goals, giving him a team-high seven.

Please see Sunday's sports section for further coverage.

Saturday, September 28, 2013

Surrey 7 Vernon 4

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

I was at tonight's BCHL game as Surrey defeated Vernon 7-4 in front of 1,625 fans at Kal Tire Place.

Starting Goaltenders:

Vernon:  Austin Smith
Surrey:  Victor Adamo

1st Period:  The Vipers got off to a good start and seemed to set the tone early jumping out to a quick 1-0 lead after former Surrey Eagles forward Demico Hannoun was hard on the puck, won the race and battle down low, got the puck out front to a wide open Michael McNicholas who beat Eagles starting goaltender Victor Adamo at 2:09 Hannoun with the only assist.  Vernon kept coming, with some hard work and a good forecheck down low the Vipers all over the Eagles in the opening few minutes.  This hard work and forecheck would pay off as just over three minutes later Craig Martin setup former Surrey Eagle Mason Blacklock who put Vernon up 2-0 at 5:42 Martin and Dallas Calvin picked up the helpers.  Surrey would then get the games first powerplay and capitalize.  Ryan Fraser Lee setup Jonah Renouf who beat Vipers starting goaltender Austin Smith at 7:57 making this a one goal game.  Fraser Lee and Nicolas Pierog collected the assists.  The Eagles would jump right back on the powerplay before tying the game 2-2.  Matthew Dawson setup Nicolas Pierog who beat Smith at 9:58 Nicholas with the only helper.  Surrey who was outshot 7-3 at this point kept coming, with a few solid shifts the Eagles had their best pressure of the night coming back with three quick shots.  The Eagles come close to going ahead after Danton Heinen would get a chance behind the Viper net but couldnt beat Austin Smith. The Vipers didnt quit and come right back with another hard working shift, with some good forecheck down low the Vipers moved the puck around Michael McNicholas with a wrap around couldnt beat Adamo who made a big pad save keeping this game tied.  Surrey would take their first lead of the night after Jonah Renouf with a nice pass setup Ryan Fraser Lee who went high far corner beating Austin Smith giving the Eagles a 3-2 lead at 12:54 Renouf and Danton Heinen with the assists.  Just a minute later Vernon would get their first powerplay, Jason Bird's point shot beat Victor Adamo but went off the post as the Eagles would kill off the minor. With three and a half minutes remaining TJ Dumonceaux couldnt handle a pass before collecting the loose puck before setting up Mike Iovanna on a two on one but Iovanna couldnt beat Adamo.  Surrey would get a late powerplay but unable to capitalize as Vernon would kill off the penalty.  The Vipers would get a man advantage in the final seconds wich would carry into the second period.  The Vipers carried the better of the play and had the better of the scoring chances but were down 3-2 after 20 minutes of play.  Shots were even 10-10.

2nd Period:  The Vipers started the middle frame with the man advantage that was carried over from the 1st period.  A very strong penalty kill by the Eagles would kill off the minor.  The Vipers didnt quit and kept coming, Demico Hannoun won the draw back to Michael McNicholas who beat Victor Adamo with a soft looking shot from the circle that went fivehole on Adamo for McNicholas's second goal of the night tying the game 3-3 at 5:42 Hannoun with the lone assist.  The Vipers with most of the play early and often didnt generate as much offensive chances as in the opening period but did carry the better of the play.  It wasnt even a minute later before Surrey would re take the lead after Jonah Renouf with his second goal of the night on a shot Austin Smith would like to have back put the Eagles up 4-3 at 6:55 Ryan Fraser Lee with the helper.  Former Westside Warriors forward Brett Mulcahy would leave the game before returning to the Eagles bench later on.  Just past the halfway mark Demico Hannoun with a burst of speed beat his man before going in for the breakaway tried beating Adamo shortside but hit the post.  Both teams went back and fourth with two powerplays but neither team could capitalize.  Late in the period Mark Hamilton's point shot went through a crowd before Victor Adamo made a huge right pad save kicking out Hamilton's blast from the blueline.  Vernon once again carried most of the play but didnt generate many opportunities outshooting the Eagles 13-8.  Surrey with a 4-3 lead after 40 minutes of play.

3rd Period:  The Vipers started the third with the powerplay that was carried over from the second period.  Surrey playing man on man with one man high did a very good job on the penalty kill limiting Vernon's shots as the Vipers without a shot couldnt capitalize.  But just as the penalty expired Jason Bird's shot from the point missed the net before Demico Hannoun jumped all over the rebound off the back boards before tapping the puck into the open cage tying the game 4-4 at 1:25 Bird with the lone assist.  Just over two minutes later Surrey would get a great opportunity with a full two man advantage.  The Vipers with a solid penalty kill played man to man limiting the Eagles shots as Surrey with just one shot missed a major opportunity to take the lead.  Michael Statchuk with a huge shot block in the dying seconds of the powerplay would need help off the ice.  Good news for the Vipers Statchuck would return to the game.  Just a minute later the Vipers would get a chance with the man advantage.  Again Vernon having troubles getting pucks to the net as the Eagles with a great penalty kill.  Dallas Calvin with two chances at the side of the net in the dying seconds was robbed by Victor Adamo who somehow come up with two huge saves while down and out.  Just as the penalty expired Phillippe Johansson setup Ryan Fraser Lee who just got out of the penalty box.  Fraser Lee went in for the breakaway with Michael McNicholas chasing him down, Fraser Lee would be stopped by Smith on the first shot shutting the fivehole before Fraser Lee beat Smith on the rebound giving Surrey a 5-4 lead at 8:40 Phillippe Johansson with the helper.  Just over two minutes later Vernon would get another powerplay but again a strong penalty kill by the Eagles as the Vipers were once again limited with pucks to the net as Surrey would kill off the minor.  Just as the penalty expired Kenny Citron's point shot got through taffic but Adamo with a big right pad save kicked the puck out on a tough save.  Again the Vipers with most of the play all night just couldnt capitalize on their chances.  Vernon would get one last chance with a late powerplay.  With Austin Smith on the bench for the extra attacker former Coquitlam Express Mitchell Fyffe hit the empty net for the shorthanded marker giving Surrey a 6-4 lead at 18:46 Fyffe's goal was unassisted.  With Smith still on the bench and the Vipers still on the man advantage Phillippe Johansson  would go in for the breakaway hitting the open cage for the Eagles second shorthanded goal of the night putting Surrey up 7-4 at 19:31 Johansson's goal was unassisted.  The Eagles would kill off the penalty and come away with a 7-4 win in another period where Vernon was the better of the two teams.  The Vipers once again carried most of the play and had the better of the opportunities.  Vernon outshot Surrey 14-12.

Top Players:  (Vernon)

Mark Hamilton who is really starting to come into his own as of late played another strong game on the Vernon blueline.  Hamilton played very well at both ends of the rink, was jumping up into the play, playing physical and making some smart plays.

Michael McNicholas (2 goals)  Was very strong up front for the Vipers.  McNicholas with some good opportunities played very well.

Demico Hannoun (1 goal & 2 assists)  Looked very good for the Vipers tonight.  Facing his former team Hannoun was very dangerous most of the night.  A very smooth, slick skating forward put on a clinic at times tonight weaving in and out of some of his former team mates.  Very soft hands in and around the net.

Game Thoughts:  (Vernon)

After two huge wins over Penticton & Surrey the Vipers fell short in a tough loss in a game where I thought they fully deserved the win.  The Vipers got off to a quick start, seemed to set the tone early, jumping out a a quick 2-0 lead Vernon got into some penalty trouble and it cost them.  The Eagles with two quick back to back goals of their own rallied to tie the game before jumping ahead shortly after.  The Vipers just couldnt seem to recover after the opening period.  It seemed like everytime Vernon tied the game, Surrey come right back a few minutes later to re take the lead.  Other then a few defensive mistakes and getting into penalty trouble I thought the Vipers were by far the better team tonight.  Vernon outplayed and outchances the Eagles all night.  The Vipers missed on several opportunities couldnt capitalize on their chances and didnt have any puck luck tonight.  Most of the night it looked like the Vipers were going for the highlight real goal, instead of just getting shots-pucks to the net and looking for rebounds.  The Vipers needed to get more bodies in and around the Eagles net.  Specialty teams was the difference as Vernon went 0-7 with the powerplay while Surrey went 2-7 also scoring two shorthanded goals.

Top Players:  (Surrey)

The Eagles line of Jonah Renouf (2 goals & 1 assist), Nicolas Pierog (2 goals & 1 assist) & Danton Heinen (1 assist) was Surrey's top unit by far.  These three were the only real bright spots for the Eagles other then Victor Adamo.  Renouf, Heinen and Pierog seemed to barly touch the puck before it was in the back of the net.  This line was very good, saw a ton of icetime and was the Eagles only real scoring threat.  I was very impressed with Renouf, not the biggest kid but very quick, soft hands and moves the puck well.  Always in and around the play.

Ryan Fraser Lee (2 goals & 2 assists)  Played very well on Surrey's blueline.  Played very well defensively and chipped in with four points. 

Victor Adamo (33 saves)  Played very well between the pipes for the Eagles tonight.  Adamo isnt the biggest goaltender but made some big saves through out tonight's contest. 

Game Thought's:  (Surrey)

The Eagles snapped the Vipers two game winning streak and took one out of the three meetings between these two teams as the Vipers won the season series 2-1.  Surrey's last win in Vernon was a 3-2 victory back on Wednesday, September 26th 2007  For a first place team I wasnt overly impressed with the Eagles tonight.  Like I said earlier I thought the Vipers were by far the better team, outplayed, outhit and outchanced the Eagles all game.  Other then their seven goals the Eagles maybe had two or three quality scoring chances all night.  It seemed like whatever the Eagles put on net went in.  Surrey with very little pressure or offence at all. Surrey capitalized and scored on their chances, took advantage of Vernon's few mistakes and capitalized on specialty teams.  Surrey couldnt seem to generate any offensive chances most of the night.  I did like the Eagles penalty kill, very very good.  Playing man on man with a player high the Eagles limited Vernon's shots, wich gave the Vipers all kinds of trouble trying to create any offensive chances.  I really like the Eagles new road jersey's, very sharp.

Scratches:

Vernon:

Josh Bryan (Injured)
Colton Sparrow (Injured)
Ryan Renz (Injured)  

Surrey:

Brayden Park
Joseph Drapluk
Nathan Renouf

Energy player of the game:

Riley Guenther

Three Stars:

1st Star:  Ryan Fraser Lee (2 goals & 2 assists)
2nd Star:  Jonah Renouf (2 goals & 1 assist)
3rd Star:  Michael McNicholas (2 goals)

For more on tonight's game visit the BCHL boxscore,

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxscores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=1231188&link=bchl

Game Preview: Surrey @ Vernon:

Surrey (4-3-0-0) @ Vernon (3-2-1-2) 7pm

Tonight is the second game of a home and home series between the Vipers & Eagles and the final game of three meetings between these two teams this season. Vernon leads the season series 2-0. You can listen to tonight's game live on 107.5 Kiss FM starting with the pre-game show with Graham Turnball at 6:45pm

Last Game:

WedFriday, October 27th Vernon defeated Surrey 4-1

Next Game:

Friday, October 4th Vernon @ Prince George
Friday, October 4th Langley @ Surrey

Since the 2003-04 regular season Vernon is 15-5-0-0 vs. Surrey

Since the 2003-04 regular season Vernon has outscored Surrey 74-53

Since the 2003-04 regular season Vernon is 6-2-0-0 at home vs. Surrey

Since the 2003-04 regular season Vernon is 8-3-0-0 in Surrey

Vernon's last win in Surrey was a 4-1 win back on Friday, September 27th 2013

Vernons last loss in Surrey was a 5-3 loss back on Friday, October 19th 2012

Surrey's last win in Vernon was a 3-2 victory back on Wednesday, September 26th 2007

Surrey's last loss in Vernon was a 3-2 overtime loss back on Saturday, November 10th 2012

The Vipers went 1-1-0-0 last season vs Surrey

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 Vernon Vipers return home for the second game of a home and home series with the Surrey Eagles after a 4-1 win in Surrey last night.  The Vipers with back to back wins for the first time this young season sit in 4th place in the Interior Division one point back of West Kelowna & Penticton.  Tonight will be Vernon's third game in four nights will hit the road for a two game road trip next weekend.  The Vipers have outscored their opponents 7-2 in their last two games.  Forwards Demico Hannoun & Mason Blacklock will once again face their former team for the final time this season.  

Mason Blacklock (7-4-11) leads the Vipers in goals with seven and in points with eleven.

Vernon Vipers 2013-14 Stats:

Games Played: 8
Wins:  3
Losses: 2
Ties: 1
Overtime Loss: 2
Home Record: 1-0-1-2
Road Record: 2-2-0-0
Goals For: 26
Goals Against: 26
Streak: Two game winning streak
Standings: 4th Place

Vernon Vipers Returning Players:

Jason Bird (93)
Mason Blacklock (94)
Dexter Dancs (95)
TJ Dumonceaux (94)
Craig Martin (95)
Logan Mick (96)
Brendan Persley (93)
Ryan Renz (93)
Colton Sparrow (93)
Michael Statchuk (94)
Austin Smith (93)
Danny Todosychuk (94)

Vernon Vipers Departing & traded players from last years team:

Liam Board (93)
Brett Corkey (92)
Bryce Eviston (94)
Andrew Tegeler (92)
Mitch McAllister (94)
Marc Hetnik (92)
Michael Roberts (95)
Braeden Russell (93)
Geoff Crisfield (93)

Vernon’s Home record vs. Surrey this season:

0-0-0-0

Vernon’s Road record vs. Surrey this season:

2-0-0-0 (One game played in Chilliwack @ BCHL Showcase)

Vernon’s Powerplay vs. Surrey this season:

2-7

Vernon’s scoring leaders vs. Surrey this season:

Dexter Dancs (3-0-3)
Liam Coughlin (2-1-3)
Mason Blacklock (2-0-2)
Craig Martin (1-1-2)
Demico Hannoun (1-1-2)
Dallas Calvin (1-1-2)
Brendan Persley (0-2-2)
Jason Bird (0-2-2)
Josh Bryan (0-1-1)
Ryan Renz (0-1-1)
Mark Hamilton (1-0-1)
Michael McNicholas (0-1-1)
Matty Saharchuk (0-1-1)

Austin Smith (1-0 Record)
Danny Todosychuk (1-0 Record)

Key’s and Notes to tonight’s game:

-Vernon has the leagues 12th best powerplay

-The Vipers have the BCHL's 5th best penalty kill







Lets take a look at the Surrey Eagles:

The defending BCHL Champion Surrey Eagles make their first and only visit to Kal Tire Place tonight look for revenge after last night's 4-1 loss at home to the Vipers.  Surrey who sits atop of the Mainland Division has lost back to back games for the first time this season are 0-2 vs Vernon this season.  The Eagles come into tonight's game undefeated away from home with a 3-0 road record.  Forwards Michael Roberts and Braeden Russell will make their first return to Vernon to face their former team mates for the final time this season.   

Jonah Renouf (4-5-9) leads the Eagles in goals with four while Braeden Russell (3-6-9) & Renouf lead the team in points with nine each.

Surrey Eagles 2013-14 Stats:

Games Played: 7
Wins: 4
Losses: 3
Ties: 0
Overtime Loss: 0
Home Record: 1-3-0-0
Road Record: 3-0-0-0
Goals For: 24
Goals Against: 27
Streak: One game losing streak
Standings: 1st Place (Mainland Division)

Surrey Eagles Returning Players:

Ryan Fraser-Lee (93)
Joey Gaudet (94)
Colton Mackie (93)
Brett Mulcahy (93)
Nicolas Pierog (93)

Surrey Eagles Departing & traded players from last years team:

Brady Shaw (92)
Adam Tambellini (94)
Michael Stenerson (93)
Devon Toews (94)
Drew Best (94)
Craig Wyszomirski (92)
Trevor Cameron (92)
Demico Hannoun (95)
Jordan Klimek (95)
Kevan Kilistoff (95)
Stefan Burzan (94)
Troy Paterson (92)
Dan O' Keefe (94)
William Clark (93)
Tommy Stipancik (94)
Michael Santaguida (93)
Glenn Ferguson (94)

Surrey's Home record vs. Vernon this season:

0-2-0-0 (One game played in Chilliwack @ BCHL Showcase)

Surrey's Road record vs. Vernon this season:

0-0-0-0

Surrey's Powerplay vs. Vernon this season:

1-8

Surrey's scoring leaders vs. Vernon this season:

Jonah Renouf (1-1-2)
Brett Mulcahy (1-1-2)
Braeden Russell (2-0-2)
Matthew Dawson (0-1-1)
Jonah Renouf (0-1-1)
Colton Mackie (0-1-1)

Victor Adamo (0-1 Record)
Bo Didur (0-1 Record)

Key’s and Notes to tonight’s game:

-Surrey has the BCHL's 2nd best powerplay

-The Eagles have the league's 14th 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

Surrey Eagles:

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/stats_1team.cfm?leagueID=2393&clientID=1413&teamid=224093

Friday, September 27, 2013

Vernon 4 Surrey 1

SCORING SUMMARY


PERIOD 1

Vernon Vipers at 1:33 - Mark Hamilton (unassisted) 

PERIOD 2

Vernon Vipers at 15:53 (PP) - Dexter Dancs from Jason Bird and Michael McNicholas 

PERIOD 3

Surrey Eagles at 8:35 - Brett Mulcahy from Colton Mackie and Jonah Renouf 
Vernon Vipers at 15:49 - Mason Blacklock from Matty Saharchuk 
Vernon Vipers at 19:12 (SH)(EN) - Mason Blacklock (unassisted) 

Surrey outshot Vernon 34-26.  Austin Smith made 33 saves in the win, while Victor Adamo made 22 saves in the loss.

For more on tonight's game visit the BCHL boxscore,

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxscores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=1231181&link=bchl

Game Preview: Vernon @ Surrey:

Vernon (2-2-1-2) @ Surrey (4-2-0-0) 7pm

Tonight is the first game of a home and home series between the Vipers & Eagles and the second of three meetings between these two teams this season.  Vernon leads the season series 1-0.  You can listen to today's game live on 107.5 Kiss FM starting with the pre-game show with Graham Turnball at 6:45pm

Last Game:

Wednesday, September 25th Vernon defeated Penticton 3-1
Sunday, September 22nd Surrey defeated Cowichan Valley 3-2 in overtime

Next Game:

Saturday, September 28th Surrey @ Vernon

Since the 2003-04 regular season Vernon is 14-5-0-0 vs. Surrey

Since the 2003-04 regular season Vernon has outscored Surrey  70-52

Since the 2003-04 regular season Vernon is 6-2-0-0 at home vs. Surrey

Since the 2003-04 regular season Vernon is 7-3-0-0 in Surrey

Vernon's last win in Surrey was a 2-1 win back on Sunday, November 21st 2010

Vernons last loss in Surrey was a 5-3 loss back on Friday, October 19th 2012

Surrey's last win in Vernon was a 3-2 victory back on Wednesday, September 26th 2007

Surrey's last loss in Vernon was a 3-2 overtime loss back on Saturday, November 10th 2012

The Vipers went 1-1-0-0 last season vs Surrey

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 make their first and only visit of the regular season to Surrey tonight to face the defending Fred Page Cup Champion Eagles in the first game of a home and home series.  Tonight is the second of three meetings between these two teams.  After knocking off the Eagles in the first game of the season the Vipers went winless in five straight games before picking up just their second win of the season Wednesday with a 3-1 victory over the visiting Penticton Vees.  Tonight is the Vipers second game in three nights and the first of three out of four games away from home.  Vernon is just a single point back of 2nd place Penticton and three points back of 1st place West Kelowna.  Mason Blacklock & Demico Hannoun face their former team for the second time this season.  Blacklock is tied with ten other players for third in league scoring.

Mason Blacklock (5-4-9) leads the Vipers in goals with five and in points with nine.

Vernon Vipers 2013-14 Stats:

Games Played: 7
Wins:  2
Losses: 2
Ties: 1
Overtime Loss: 2
Home Record: 1-0-1-2
Road Record: 1-2-0-0
Goals For: 22
Goals Against: 25
Streak: One game winning streak
Standings: 4th Place

Vernon Vipers Returning Players:

Jason Bird (93)
Mason Blacklock (94)
Dexter Dancs (95)
TJ Dumonceaux (94)
Craig Martin (95)
Logan Mick (96)
Brendan Persley (93)
Ryan Renz (93)
Colton Sparrow (93)
Michael Statchuk (94)
Austin Smith (93)
Danny Todosychuk (94)

Vernon Vipers Departing & traded players from last years team:

Liam Board (93)
Brett Corkey (92)
Bryce Eviston (94)
Andrew Tegeler (92)
Mitch McAllister (94)
Marc Hetnik (92)
Michael Roberts (95)
Braeden Russell (93)
Geoff Crisfield (93)

Vernon’s Home record vs. Surrey this season:

0-0-0-0

Vernon’s Road record vs. Surrey this season:

1-0-0-0 (Played in Chilliwack @ BCHL Showcase)

Vernon’s Powerplay vs. Surrey this season:

1-2

Vernon’s scoring leaders vs. Surrey this season:

Liam Coughlin (2-1-3)
Craig Martin (1-1-2)
Demico Hannoun (1-1-2)
Dexter Dancs (2-0-2)
Dallas Calvin (1-1-2)
Brendan Persley (0-2-2)
Josh Bryan (0-1-1)
Jason Bird (0-1-1)
Ryan Renz (0-1-1)

Danny Todosychuk (1-0 Record)

Key’s and Notes to today’s game:

-Vernon has the leagues 14th best powerplay

-The Vipers have the BCHL's 6th best penalty kill







Lets take a look at the Surrey Eagles:

The 1st place Surrey Eagles will be looking for revenge after falling 7-3 to the Vipers at the BCHL Showcase in Chilliwack.  Since that loss the Eagles have won three out of their last four games and sit atop the Mainland Division.  Surrey comes into tonight's game riding a two game road trip sits just one point up on Coquitlam & Langley.  The Eagles have two former Vipers in their lineup.  Forwards Braeden Russell and Michael Roberts.  Russell leads the Eagles in points with nine and is tied for third in league scoring.  

Jonah Renouf (4-4-8) leads the Eagles in goals with four while braeden Russell (3-6-9) leads the team in points with nine.

Surrey Eagles 2013-14 Stats:

Games Played: 6
Wins: 4
Losses: 2
Ties: 0
Overtime Loss: 0
Home Record: 1-2-0-0
Road Record: 3-0-0-0
Goals For: 23
Goals Against: 23
Streak: Two game winning streak
Standings: 1st Place (Mainland Division)

Surrey Eagles Returning Players:

Ryan Fraser-Lee (93)
Joey Gaudet (94)
Colton Mackie (93)
Brett Mulcahy (93)
Nicolas Pierog (93)

Surrey Eagles Departing & traded players from last years team:

Brady Shaw (92)
Adam Tambellini (94)
Michael Stenerson (93)
Devon Toews (94)
Drew Best (94)
Craig Wyszomirski (92)
Trevor Cameron (92)
Demico Hannoun (95)
Jordan Klimek (95)
Kevan Kilistoff (95)
Stefan Burzan (94)
Troy Paterson (92)
Dan O' Keefe (94)
William Clark (93)
Tommy Stipancik (94)
Michael Santaguida (93)
Glenn Ferguson (94)

Surrey's Home record vs. Vernon this season:

0-1-0-0 (Played in Chilliwack @ BCHL Showcase)

Surrey's Road record vs. Vernon this season:

0-0-0-0

Surrey's Powerplay vs. Vernon this season:

1-5

Surrey's scoring leaders vs. Vernon this season:

Jonah Renouf (1-1-2)
Braeden Russell (2-0-2)
Matthew Dawson (0-1-1)
Brett Mulcahy (0-1-1)

Bo Didur (0-1 Record)

Key’s and Notes to today’s game:

-Surrey has the BCHL's best powerplay

-The Eagles have the league's 6th 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

Surrey Eagles:

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/stats_1team.cfm?leagueID=2393&clientID=1413&teamid=224093

Vipers Crank Up Defence For Win:

This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:

Vipers crank up defence for win

Published: September 27, 2013

Kevin Mitchell

Sports Editor

The amusement ride known as Junior hockey took a terrific turn for the Vernon Vipers Wednesday night at Kal Tire Place.

Sitting in the Interior Conference cellar with one victory and fans already calling for a coaching change, the Vipers cranked things up and stopped the Penticton Vees 3-1 before 1,200 fans.

It was Vernon’s strongest 200-foot performance of the young B.C. Hockey League season as they improved to 2-2-1-2 and moved into a share of third place with the Trail Smoke Eaters (3-3).

Newbie Riley Guenther showed moxy on the battered blueline, the Vipers were tougher in the 50-50 battles, reduced their turnovers and got splendid goaltending from Austin Smith.

All of the above converted in a much-needed two points as the Vipers begin a home and home series with the defending champion Surrey Eagles tonight on the coast. Surrey visits the Big Wheel Saturday night.

Forward Demico Hannoun, who has struggled in stretches, parlayed his finest showing of the year into second star. Two days after being listed by NHL Central Scouting, the North Delta product pocketed two assists and tossed some heavy hits.

“I’m not really too focussed on the draft right now,” said Hannoun, who was part of the Adam Tambellini blockbuster last winter.

“I’m just more worried about winning games. Everyone played really well tonight. We talked about sticking to our systems and everything should work. That was our best defensive game because we were getting pucks out simply and supporting everyone.”

The Vipers signed Guenther – 83 Western League games – after trading towering Spencer Morse to the West Kelowna Warriors for futures. Guenther is a highly reliable minute muncher who handles the puck and skates well.

“He’s really good,” said Hannoun of the 19-year--old Guenther. “He’s got good awareness out there. He’s good moving the puck up and down the ice.”

Guenther’s arrival means 20-year-old d-men Ryan Renz and Josh Bryan can forget about rushing back from injured reserve. Their absence was a wash since the Vees were without NHL-rated Jack Ramsey (at USA prospects) and 6-foot-6 Michigan giant Blake Butzow (meningitis) on the back end.

“I wasn’t happy with our dee core; they didn’t play up to par tonight so it’s back to the drawing board  tomorrow,” said Penticton head coach Fred Harbinson

“We clearly weren’t good enough. We had a team that was probably on life support and we gave them a lot of life tonight.”

Brendan Persley, with his first of the season, defenceman Mark Hamilton (his second) and ex-Vee Dexter Dancs, with his fourth of the year, and the goal of the night, handled the offence as Vernon won their first game on home ice.

The Vees’ Max Coatta wired a wrister from the high slot, roof daddy, to make it 1-1 with 35 seconds left in the second period. Coatta, a Minnesota rookie, leads Penticton with six goals.

Persley converted a two-on-one with Guenther late in the first period after some tight checking at both ends.

Hamilton’s wrist shot from the left point deflected off a Vee and past goalie Hunter Miska for the winner midway through the third period. Hannoun and Mason Blacklock drew assists.

Dancs took a drop pass from Hannoun just inside the Penticton blueline, skated to the outside, cut around a d-man and patiently waited for Miska to make a move before hitting the empty net, with 5:46 remaining. Logan Mick and Hannoun tossed the biggest Viper checks on the night with Hannoun rocking rookie d-man Jarod Hilderman in the left corner with 2:18 to play.

Viper Liam Coughlin jerseyed Patrick Sexton in the night’s only scrap, early in the third period.

Hamilton, a Boston recruit, earned first star. He and the rest of the blueline brigade were solid.

“All week, we’ve been preaching just be tough on those guys and the biggest thing was we were physical the whole game,” said Hamilton. “We were sticking with our guys and we worked the system really well.”

Hamilton was also high on Guenther.

“He helped out a lot tonight. He plays with an edge and he also chips in offensively. He had a nice assist and played really well.”

On Hannoun, Hamilton added: “He played a great game too. His game’s usually offensive, but he chipped in defensively too.”

The highly-skilled Coatta, one of five Vees without a college scholarship, was being positive about losing round one of the heated rivalry.

“It’s disappointing. You never wanna lose two in a row. We obviously never played our best tonight but the great thing about it is we get to come back on Friday and get things turned around in a hurry.”

The Vees are rated 17th in the Canadian Junior A Hockey League. Harbinson will take 4-2 as he tries to determine the Vees’ identity.

“It’s still early. It’s work in progress. There was a lot of things that we liked about this team. You lose two in a row and a couple of guys are gonna to have to realize that Junior hockey is a long haul. I think there was a little bit of backs being patted a little bit too much in town when we started 4-0. The nice thing is we had six in a row on the road and we’re 4-2 and we gotta be happy. I would have taken that at the beginning of the year. Now, we finally get a couple of home games under our belt.”

Guenther, who played volleyball, hoops and lacrosse before dedicating time to hockey, was courted by a few other Junior A teams but Vernon was a clear favourite. The Raiders released Guenther to make room for younger d-men.

“Vernon is a really nice city and they have a good organization,” he said. “They’ve won six national championships and that’s no accident. They’re hosting the Royal Bank Cup so it was a pretty easy choice for me.”

Guenther, a serious fan of the Kings’ Drew Doughty and the Oilers, met former Viper captain Brett Corkey at a Calgary gym and Corkey gave Vernon a five-star rating.

SNAKE BITES: Both teams summoned one player from the Major Midget Okanagan Rockets. The Vipers gave 17-year-old smooth-skating D Gen Bryshun regular shifts in the opening 40 minutes, while the Vees used 15-year-old F Tyson Jost on their fourth line...Guenther’s 22-year-old sister, Chesa, works for Hockey Canada in Calgary in the human resources department...The Crescent Point Energy Western Canada Cup opens April 26 in Dauphin, Man. with the Manitoba and Saskatchewan champions meeting. Top-two teams advance to the RBC, May 10-18...Penticton’s home opener is tonight against the Merritt Centennials.

Thursday, September 26, 2013

Unity – A Key Ingredient In A Championship Team:

This was in the RBC Cup Newsletter:

Unity – A Key Ingredient in a Championship Team

September 20, 2013

Volume 2, Issue 4

The Viper juggernaut from 2008-09 through 2010-11 featured three quite different teams, but all three were unified groups who played for each other and put the team ahead of personal goals. If this year's RBC Cupbound squad is to succeed, it will need that same level of unanimity.

So far, so good. The players appear to like each other and tend to hang out as a group. And, while aspects of team play still need to be refined, their practice habits show a real desire to work in unison.

Some aspects of team cohesion are simply a byproduct of complementary personalities, but that cohesion also heavily depends on leadership. Veteran players who have been through the wars set the tone within the dressing room, but those leaders and the other players take their cues from the coaching staff.

This year's three coaches present a unified front that's based on mutual respect. Head Coach Jason Williamson explains how it has developed so early in the season: "To start with, Dave (Robinson) and I have always got along well. Adding Kris Mallette, who was the same kind of hard-nosed player as Dave and I were, adds a similar coaching mentality. We're a cohesive trio."

" I really believe that the players sense that unity and feed off it. At practice, we're serious and we're working hard, but we have some fun, too. I think that balance helps the players focus and apply themselves."

The three coaches don't always initially agree, says Williamson. "In our coaches meetings, we may have different opinions about how to run things, but we talk it out and by the time we get to the practice ice or the game bench we're on the same page." He adds, "when it comes to systems and ways to approach certain situations, we're adjusting to the players' capabilities. You really have to wait to see how the team shapes up. We expect that the size and skill we have this year will allow us to play an
aggressive, high tempo style, but we may have to modify that approach as we go."

Coaches Robinson and Mallette agree. Robinson, who is now "more comfortable as a coach" in the second year of his new career, says that "we have to focus on one or two areas at a time, improving day by day. We can't be thinking all the time about the reward at the end, being in the RBC Cup. The focus has to be on the process, practice
by practice, game by game."

Mallette likes the fact that his fellow coaches think the way he does: "We demand that players play a certain way and we reward them when they do. I also like our philosophy that you give players another chance to do things the right way if they make a mistake. And I think you have to give them opportunities to grow."

He cites his own playing experience. "For most of my career, I played a tightly defined role – a tough guy who did very little with the puck and took no chances. But then Chris Stewart, my coach with the Colorado Eagles, told me that I should trust my abilities and make plays and expand my role. I didn't forget who I was and what got me a pro career, but he challenged me to be better. So that's what I like to do; I like to give kids confidence to succeed."

Wednesday, September 25, 2013

Vernon 3 Penticton 1

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

I was at tonight's BCHL game as Vernon defeated Penticton 3-1 in front of 1,250 fans at Kal Tire Place.

Starting Goaltenders:

Vernon:  Austin Smith
Penticton:  Hunter Miska

1st Period:  The Vees carried the early edge in play often but with very little offensive opportunities there wasnt alot of scoring chances.  Penticton with a real good breakout looked good in the first nine minutes or so as the Vipers couldnt get anything through the neutral zone.  The Vees were playing a pretty standup and shutdown defensive game early as the Vipers were also playing well defensively not giving up many scoring chances.  It took Vernon six minutes to record their first shot on goal as Penticton was outshooting the Vipers 4-0 at this point.  The Vees carried the edge in play and were the better team in the first half before the Vipers come roaring back with a solid second half.  Just past the midway mark "AP" Gen Bryshun's point shot was stopped in front before Tyler Povolofskie was stopped at the side of the net on the rebound on the games first quality scoring opportunity.  Just shortly afterwards Logan Mick who played a spirited game come out with two big hits opening up some ice before making a smart play at the Vees blueline allowing newcomer Riley Geunther to carry the puck in across the line before dishing off setting up Brendan Persley who went high on Vees starting goaltender Hunter Miska giving Vernon the 1-0 lead at 13:12 Geunther with the lone helper.  The Vipers who stepped up the physical play in the second half looked very good with some good pressure down low carried the better of the play.  After leading 4-0 in shots the Vipers stormed back with six straight outshooting Penticton 6-4 at this point.  The Vees come back with a good push late in the final few minutes in a hard hitting opening period.  It was 1-0 Vernon after 20 minutes of play.  The Vees with a good start carried the better of the play in the first half before the Vipers come back with a good finish, scoring once and were the better of the two teams in the second half.  Very few and limited scoring opportunities as both teams played very well defensively.  Both teams didnt give much room, blocking alot of shots and closing the shooting lanes.  Shots were even 6-6.

2nd Period:  The Vipers would get an early powerplay (the games first) but struggle not getting a single shot as the Vees strong forecheck didnt allow Vernon's powerplay unit to get control as Penticton would kill off the minor.  Both teams again played very well defensively not alot of opportunities at both ends of the rink as both teams were fairly evenly matched in the first half.  Just before the halfway mark the Vees would get their first of three straight powerplay's.  On the first man advantage it was the Vipers penalty kill that looked good, just like the Vees Vernon come out with a strong forecheck forcing a two on one but Michael McNicholas went high and over the net.  A very good penalty kill by Vernon would kill off the penalty.  Just after the powerplay Anthony Conti tried getting behind the Vernon defenceman couldnt get off a good shot but did manage to get off a low shot that was stopped by Vipers starting goaltender Austin Smith.  Penticton would get it's second powerplay of the night, but again it was the Vipers penalty kill that was very opportunistic as Brendan Persley in on a two on one with TJ Dumonceaux waited too long to shoot before being stopped in close as again the Vipers would kill off the minor.  Just as the penalty expired Vernon would get called for too many men heading right back to the penalty kill.  With a mad scramble in front of the Vernon goal Austin Smith was forced to make a big pad save down low before Paul Stoykewych jumped up into the play, looking to have an open net hit the post as Penticton come very close to tying the game.  Vernon would kill off three straight penalties.  Just after the powerplay ended former West Kelowna Warrior Travis Blanleil got behind the Vernon defence for a parcial breakaway but was stopped by Smith.  In the final minute of play a turnover in the neutral zone allowed Cody DePourcq to find Josh Blanchard who found Max Goatta who ripped a hard shot past Austin Smith tying the game 1-1 at 19:25 Blanchard and DePourcq collected the assists.  In the dying seconds Demico Hannoun alone in front tried going high on Hunter Miska who made a tough save before losing the puck before the buzzer sounded.  A fairly evenly matched period with the Vees getting three powerplays unable to capitalize, managed to tie the game late on a Vernon turnover.  It was 1-1 after 40 minutes of play.  Penticton outshot Vernon 12-9.

3rd Period:  Just 1:58 into the final frame Liam Coughlin dropped the mits with Patrick Sexton.  The Vipers would get an early powerplay six minutes into the third with both teams yet to record a shot on goal.  On the man advantage the Vipers would finally get their first shot on net just over seven minutes into the period.  Penticton would take another penalty giving the Vipers a short two man advantage.  With lots of ice Vernon's powerplay unit moved the puck around getting atleast three or four good quality chances but either missing the net or not getting a quality shot off.  The Vipers with some chances just had troubles hitting the net as Penticton excaped killing off both minors.  Just as the powerplay's expired Mark Hamilton's point shot looked to hit someone or something along the way beating wich looked to be a screened Miska giving Vernon a 2-1 lead at 9:58 Demico Hannoun and Mason Blacklock collected the assists.  Hamilton was rewarded with the goal.  Seconds later the Vees would get their first shot with the man advantage this period but again another strong penalty kill by the Vipers.  Just after killing off the minor Michael McNicholas with a great chance was stopped by Hunter Miska, back come the Vees with a solid attack.  Some quick passing setup Riley Alfred alone at the side of the net, with a quick low shot Alfred hit the side of the mesh on a great chance to tie the game.  The Vees with a good push had some good pressure deep for a shift or two but a solid defensive play by the Vipers didnt really allow much time or space for the Vees to create any offensive chances.  A few minutes later Demico Hannoun with a nice feed setup former Penticton Vee Dexter Dancs who went around one man before going in all alone for the breakaway pulled Miska way out of position before sliding the puck into the empty cage giving Vernon a 3-1 lead at 14:14 Hannoun with the lone helper.  A few plays later Josh Blanchard with some speed ripped a hard shot from the circle forced Smith to come way out to challenge making a big pad save.  With three and a half minutes remaining the Vipers with a three on two, made some nice tic tac toe passing as Brendan Persley setup Logan Mick who found Dexter Dancs at the side of the net who was robbed by Hunter Miska who come across the crease with those long legs making a huge pad save.  A minute later Vernon would get a late powerplay wich basically would kill off the remainder two and a bit minutes.  In the final thirty seconds or so Michael Statchuk with three opportunities in a row couldnt beat Miska down low as Vernon with a solid performance tonight defeated Penticton 3-1.  The Vipers with a solid third period played very well at both ends of the rink and carrying the better of the play.  Vernon outshot Penticton 12-7.

Top Players:  (Vernon)

Mark Hamilton (1 goal)  Played a solid game on the Vipers blueline.  Scored his second goal of the season was very good tonight.

Riley Guenther (1 assist)  Made his Vipers debut tonight after being let go by the WHL Prince Albert Raiders.  Guenther stepped in and played very well tonight.  Not the biggest kid but is mobile, moves the puck well, can skate and likes to jump up into the play.  Looked good on the powerplay.  A very nice addition to the Vipers lineup.

Logan Mick I thought was a sparkplug for the Vipers tonight, played with alot of intensity and energy.  Mick played physical and made some real smart heads up plays tonight, one resulting in Vernon's opening goal.

Demico Hannoun (2 assists)  Wow can this kid skate and dangle, Hannoun with a few real slick plays tried converting in for goals played very well tonight.  Hannoun has some very soft hands, really sees and reads the ice well, a very good skater can really moved and handle the puck in tigh situations.

Dexter Dancs (1 goal)  I have really noticed the play from Dexter Dancs the last few games.  His game is slowly starting to come along, has really improved since last season and playing with alot of confidence now.  Scored a real nice goal in the third to basically put the game out of reach.

Austin Smith (24 saves)  For the second straight game Smith played very well between the pipes.  Didnt have to make alot of tough saves but made some key saves through out tonight's game.

Game Thought's:  (Vernon)

From top to bottom this was by far the Vipers best game of the season.  I was actually shocked.  I was expecting Penticton to come in here and go home with an easy two points.  I wasnt expecting much of a hockey game tonight, but saw the best game of the season tonight.  This was a very exciting game.  This was a totally different team compared to watching the last few Vipers games.  Where has this Vipers team been all season?  Ive been saying it all season the Vipers have been very uncosistant and it showed again tonight.  If this team played like this all season we wouldnt be at the bottom of the standings.  I was very impressed with the overall play, I thought Vernon played very well for most of the night.  Other then the first nine minutes or so to start the game I thought the Vipers were right with the Vees and even had control of the game at times, especially in the 3rd.  This was one of the Vipers best third periods in a very long time.  I thought the Vipers did alot better with their passing, didnt nearly make as many turnovers or defensive mistakes compared to the last few games and played like a team tonight.  The fight, the hard work and compete were all there.  I really liked the Vipers defensive play, other then a few turnovers I thought Vernon's defence didnt give up alot of scoring opportunities as well as only gave up 24 Penticton shots.  I was very impressed with the Vipers penalty kill, very solid all night, very aggresive, strong on the forecheck, man to man and creating several two on ones or shorthanded scoring chances.  I also thought the Vipers were good on the draw tonight, winning alot of faceoffs.  This was a huge win and hopefully a confidence booster for this team heading into this weekends home and home series vs Surrey.  With the win the Vipers pick up their first win at home and just their second win of the season. 

Top Players:  (Penticton)

Brett Beauvais played very solid on the Vees defence.  A big kid that dosnt give you much room out there.

Max Coatta (1 goal)  This kid has some wheels, can skate and move the puck.  Very skilled and talented hockey player.

Cody DePourcq (1 assist)  Played a strong game at both ends of the rink.  Come up with a huge shot block on the penalty kill, couldnt get off for a change battled hard and finished his shift.  This kid always works hard, competes and plays hard game in and game out. 

Christopher Rygus played very well on the Penticton backend.  A big kid that plays physical and hard to beat man to man.

Anthony Conti played well at times, had a chance in the 2nd period showed spurts of flash.

Travis Blanleil always plays and works hard every night.  The former West Kelowna Warrior battled hard tonight.  Had two chances played strong all game.  I thought was one of the Vees hardest working players tonight.

Hunter Miska (24 saves)  Didnt have alot of tough saves to make but did make some good saves through out the game.  A bigger goaltender takes up alot of room between the pipes. 

Game Thoughts:  (Penticton)

I was expecting the Vees to come in here tonight and walk away with a fairly easy victory, especially the way the Vipers have been playing.  Was I wrong.  The Vees come out strong, with a very well structured system in place the Vees showed some of that early on but couldnt really generate much offence.  I thought Penticton carried the edge in play in the first nine minutes or so before Vernon come back and was the better of the two teams in the second half.  A fairly evenly matched second period where the Vees tied the game late but couldnt hold down Vernon in the final frame.  The Vees gave up their most offensive chances in the third being outshot and outplayed.  Both teams played very well defensively not giving up alot of opportunities.  Penticton with a very quick skating, skilled team can really move the puck well, play very well defensively and dont make alot of turnovers or mistakes.  I did noticed the Vees iced the puck alot tonight and wernt as physical as the Vipers.  After starting the season 4-0 the Vees have now dropped two straight.  Tonight was the final game of a long six game road trip, as the Vees can head home for the teams home opener Friday vs Merritt.  Overall a very exciting game.

Scratches:

Vernon:

Josh Bryan (Injured)
Michael Iovanna
Colton Sparrow (Injured)
Ryan Renz (Injured)

Penticton: 

Blake Butzow
Jack Ramsey

Energy player of the game:

Logan Mick

Three Stars:

1st Star:  Mark Hamilton (1 goal)
2nd Star:  Demico Hannoun (2 assists)
3rd Star:  Max Coatta (1 goal)

For more on tonight's game visit the BCHL boxscore,

http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/hockey_boxscores.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&gameID=1231176&link=bchl

For more on tonight's game and the Penticton Vees visit Fraser Rodger's Three Vees blog,

http://pentictonvees.wordpress.com/

Vernon-West Kelowna Trade:

The Vipers have traded newly aquired
defenceman Spencer Morse to the West Kelowna Warriors.  The Vipers signed Morse on September, 13th after being cut by the WHL Red Deer Rebels.  In four games with the Vipers Morse went pointless.

Spencer Morse's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=62200

This is posted on the BCHL website:

25-Sep-13  The West Kelowna Warriors Hockey Club have acquired the CJHL playing rights to Spencer Morse(95)(D) from the Vernon Vipers in exchange for future considerations

This is posted on the Warriors website:

WARRIORS BEEF UP BACK END

Wednesday, September 25, 2013 - Submitted by Jon Zacks

West Kelowna has added depth on the blue-line, by acquiring Spencer Morse from the Vernon Vipers.

The 18 year-old had played four games to start the season with the Vipers, after spending the previous year with the WHL’s Moose Jaw Warriors.

“We wanted to add another defenceman” says Head Coach / GM Rylan Ferster, who has added more experience throughout his roster since the training camp.

As well as #1 goaltender Andy Desautels, Ferster has brought in forwards Tyson Dallman and Jason Cotton, all of whom have proven key contributors already.

Morse, a Calgary native, will be the first addition to the defensive corps.  But Ferster points out, the team also has 20 year-old Jaden Schmeisser soon to return from injury.

Ferster says Morse will begin practicing with the Warriors on Thursday, while Schmeisser could make his debut when the club heads on a Coastal road trip next weekend (Oct. 4, 5, 6).




Game Preview: Penticton @ Vernon:

Penticton (4-1-0-0) @ Vernon (1-2-1-2) 7pm start

Tonight is the first of seven meetings between the Vipers & Vees.  Penticton won the season series 5-2 last year.   

Last Game:

Saturday, September 21st Merritt defeated Vernon 3-2 in overtime
Friday, September 20th Prince George defeated Penticton 4-3

Next Game:

Friday, September 27th Vernon @ Surrey
Friday, September 27th Merritt @ Penticton

Since the 2002-03 regular season Vernon is 35-27-2-4 vs. Penticton

Since the 2002-03 regular season Vernon has outscored Penticton 213-198

Since the 2003-04 regular season Vernon is 18-9-1-1 at home vs. Penticton

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

Vernon is 3-5-1-1 in their last ten visits to Penticton

Penticton is 4-6-0-0 in their last ten visits to Vernon

The Vipers are 2-7-0-1 in their last ten games vs. Penticton

Vernon's last win at home vs Penticton was a 3-2 victory back on Friday, March 8th 2013

Penticton's last win at the Kal Tire Place 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 3-1 victory back on Friday, January 25th 2013

The Vipers went 2-5-0-0 vs Penticton last season

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

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





Lets take a look at the Vernon Vipers:

The Vipers are winless in their last five games are coming off a 3-2 overtime loss to the visiting Merritt Centennials Saturday night.  The Vipers sit in 6th place have been outscored 20-11 in their last four games.  Tonight is the final game of a two game home stand for Vernon before they play four of their next six games on the road.  Vernon has yet to win at home this season have lost both home games in overtime.             

Mason Blacklock (5-3-8) leads the Vipers in goals with five and in points with eight

Vernon Vipers 2013-14 Regular Season Stats:

Games Played: 6
Wins: 1
Losses: 2
Ties: 1
Overtime Losses:  2
Home Record: 0-0-1-2
Road Record: 1-2-0-0
Goals For: 19
Goals Against: 24
Streak: Winless in five games
Standings:  6th Place

Vernon Vipers Returning Players:

Jason Bird (93)
Mason Blacklock (94)
Dexter Dancs (95)
TJ Dumonceaux (94)
Craig Martin (95)
Logan Mick (96)
Brendan Persley (93)
Ryan Renz (93)
Colton Sparrow (93)
Michael Statchuk (94)
Austin Smith (93)
Danny Todosychuk (94)

Vernon Vipers Departing & traded players from last years team:

Liam Board (93)
Brett Corkey (92)
Bryce Eviston (94)
Andrew Tegeler (92)
Mitch McAllister (94)
Marc Hetnik (92)
Michael Roberts (95)
Braeden Russell (93)
Geoff Crisfield (93)

Vernon’s home record vs. Penticton last season:

1-2-0-0

Vernon’s road record vs. Penticton last season:

1-3-0-0 (One game was played in Chilliwack at BCHL Showcase)

Vernon’s Powerplay vs. Penticton last season:

1-15

Vernon’s scoring leaders vs. Penticton last season:
Mitch McAllister (2-1-3)
Brett Corkey (0-2-2)
Liam Board (0-2-2)
Craig Martin (1-1-2)
Brendan Persley (0-2-2)
Michael Roberts (0-2-2)
Michael Statchuk (0-1-1)
Ryan Renz (1-0-1)
Dexter Dancs (0-1-1)
Marc Hetnik (0-1-1)
Mason Blacklock (1-0-1)
Colton Sparrow (1-0-1)

Austin Smith (2-5 Record)

Key’s and Notes to tonight’s game:

-Vernon has the leagues 11th best powerplay

-The Vipers have the BCHL's 9th best penalty kill




 
Lets take a look at the Penticton Vees:

The defending Interior Division Champion and Fred Page Cup finalist Penticton Vees make their first visit to Kal Tire Place this season are coming off their first loss of the season Friday night in Prince George.  The 2nd place Vees have fourteen players committed to scholarships finish their six game road trip tonight return home for the teams home opener Friday vs Merritt. The Vees play seven of their first nine games away from home.  Including the pre-season the Vees have won all but three games (2 ties and a loss) in ten games.

For more on the Penticton Vees please visit Fraser Rodgers Three Vees blog,

http://pentictonvees.wordpress.com/

Max Coatta (5-3-8) leads the Vees in goals with five and is tied with Brad McClure (4-4-8) in points with eight

Penticton Vees 2013-14 Regular Season Stats::

Games Played: 5
Wins:  4
Losses: 1
Ties: 0
Overtime Losses: 0
Home Record: 1-0-0-0
Road Record: 3-1-0-0
Goals For: 20
Goals Against: 8
Place:  2nd Place
Streak: One game losing streak

Penticton Vees Returning Players:

Brad McClure (93)
Ryan Gropp (96)
Cam Amantea (94)
Cody Depourcq (95)
Travis Blanleil (94)
Brock Balson (93) (Suspended)

Penticton Vees Departing & traded players from last years team:

Wade Murphy (93)
John Siemer (92)
Sam Mellor (92)
Troy Stecher (94)
Jedd Soleway (94)
Louie Nanne (94)
Michael Rebry (93)
James De Haas (94)
Sean Flanagan (92)
Bryan Sinz (92)
Jordan McCallum (93)
Thomas Nitsche (92)
Robert Mann (92)
Brayden Park (96)
Nick Renyard (94)
Chad Katunar (93)

Penticton's Home record vs. Vernon last season:

3-1-0-0 (One game was played in Chilliwack at BCHL Showcase)

Penticton's Road record vs. Vernon last season:

2-1-0-0

Penticton's Powerplay vs. Vernon  last season:

5-28

Penticton's scoring leaders vs. Vernon last  season:

Sam Mellor (3-5-8)
Wade Murphy (4-4-8)
Troy Stecher (0-7-7)
John Siemer (2-2-4)
Michael Rebry (3-0-3)
Jedd Soleway (1-2-3)
Sean Flanagan (1-2-3)
Louie Nanne (1-1-2)
Brad McClure (1-1-2)
Cody DePourcq (1-1-2)
Cam Amantea (1-1-2)
Ryan Gropp (1-0-1)
James De Haas (0-1-1)
Travis Blanleil (1-0-1)
Thomas Nitsche (0-1-1)
Jedd Soleway (0-1-1)

Chad Katunar (5-2 Record)

-Penticton has the leagues best powerplay

-The Vees have the BCHL's 4th 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

Vipers Add D-Man From WHL Raiders:

This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:

Vipers add d-man from WHL Raiders

Published: September 25, 2013

By Kevin Mitchell

Sports Editor

Vernon Vipers’ Hot Stove Leagues around town had plenty to talk about Monday.

Forward Demico Hannoun’s name was on the NHL Central Scouting’s preliminary list, released Monday, for the 2014 entry draft in Philadelphia.

A few hours later, word got out that the Vipers were signing 19-year-old defenceman Riley Guenther, a late cut by the Western League’s Prince Albert Raiders.

Hannoun, who turns 18 next week, is one of 11 Canadian Junior A players identified by Central Scouting as a possible draft choice. The North Delta product is rated a ‘C’ prospect, thought to be taken in rounds four through six next June.

Powell River Kings’ d-man Luke Ripley is also ranked as a ‘C’ prospect, while Penticton Vees’ blueliner Jack Ramsey is classed a ‘B’ skater, meaning he’s considered a second- or third-round pick.

“Now that he’s (Hannoun) on the list, it’s our job and his to develop his game to where he’s a complete player,” said Viper head coach/GM Jason Williamson. “He wants to get drafted and he wants to play in the NHL. He skates well and he’s talented as they come. He just has to work on his consistency, like all young players.”

Hannoun compiled 14 goals and 33 points with the BCHL champion Surrey Eagles last year, adding five goals and 14 points in the playoffs. He had 12 goals as a 16-year-old rookie in Surrey after recording 17 goals and 41 points with the Major Midget Greater Vancouver Canadians.

The 6-foot, 185-pound forward was a ninth-round pick of the Regina Pats in the 2010 WHL Bantam draft.

Meanwhile, Guenther is expected to make his Viper debut tonight against the Vees (Kal Tire Place) after playing 83 games over three years with Prince Albert and Tri-City Americans of the WHL.

“I watched him on-line and he’s a pretty steady d-man,” said Williamson, who released one d-man Tuesday night. “People we’ve talked to say he should be a top-four d-man with us. We’ll ask him to be a steadying influence back there and use him in all situations.”

Guenther was named Chrysler Division First Team All-Star in 2010-11 while playing for the Calgary Northstars of the Alberta Midget League. He also helped Team Alberta win the 2009 Western Canada U-16 Challenge Cup. Tri-City took him in round three of the WHL Bantam draft.

“He’s a hard-working, character kid who is a pleasure to have around,” Raiders’ GM Bruno Campese told The Prince Albert Daily Herald.

Vees Next Up For Vipers:

This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:

Vees next up for Vipers

Published: September 25, 2013

Graeme Corbett

Morning Star Staff

Last year, the Vernon Vipers couldn’t score any goals. This year, they can’t seem to stop them.

The Snakes are right up with the B.C. Hockey League’s best in offensive output, but in their own zone, life is an adventure. Saturday’s 3-2 overtime loss to the Merritt Centennials at Kal Tire Place is evidence of that.

Capping a two-goal, first-star performance, Merritt’s Gavin Gould got inside position on Viper defenders Jason Bird and Kenny Citron in the first OT and converted his second attempt from Austin Smith’s doorstep on a feed from Scott Patterson.

It came after Vernon had built up a 2-0 lead on the strength of a solid first period before fizzling in the second.

“We got two on them early and thought maybe it was going to be easy after that,” said Vipers’ assistant coach Dave Robinson.

“They think they’re working hard, but they’re not working hard enough. You’ve got to work smart too because that limits those breakdowns.

“Merritt’s the same way every year. They come in and outwork you and get those greasy goals that some teams aren’t willing to pay the price for. You have to give them a lot of credit.”

Vernon, now 1-2-1-2, turned in a solid first period, opening the scoring on the powerplay as Mason Blacklock went roof daddy on netminder Connor LaCouvee after taking a slick back pass from Dallas Calvin at the side of the net.

Craig Martin gave the Vipers a two-goal cushion when he cruised through the slot and got wood on Liam Coughlin’s centering feed from the corner.

“Liam was trying to hit TJ (Dumonceaux) in the slot and I was just following up and found it loose in there,” said Martin, a second-year forward.

Martin said the Vipers will definitely need to be more consistent when they host the high-flying Penticton Vees (4-1) tonight, 7 p.m., at Kal Tire Place.

“We know they’re a skilled team so we’ve got to outwork them and mentally prepare for that game,” said Martin, a Trail product.

“We definitely let off the gas in the second period (against Merritt) and that can’t happen. We’ve got to be putting together 60-minute games, especially against a hard-working team like Merritt. If we out-compete them, we win that game easily.”

Luke Pierce’s Centennials (3-4) began clawing their way back in the second period.

when a Viper missed a defensive assignment, allowing Gould to cruise unchecked to the top of the circle and beat Smith, top shelf.

“They had unbelievable scoring chances from the breakdowns that we have,” said Robinson. “When we make mistakes, they’re glaring ones. You stray away for five minutes and that can be the game.

“It’s happening every way right now. Whether it’s our centremen not supporting our dee in the corner, or our d-man blowing a tire, like the last goal. And there’s not a lot of communication. That’ll solve a lot of problems.”

Pierce was thrilled with the Cents’ ability to rebound after what he called a sluggish first period.

“It was a resilient effort. We improved tremendously from the intermission and throughout the game. We’re battling a lot of stuff right now and just trying to find ways to win games.

“Our skill set is there, we still have a lot of work to do on our consistency. They have to learn the everyday junior lifestyle and what it takes to compete like that.”

Payton Schaefer collected the equalizer on a goal-mouth scramble at 14:02 of the middle period.

Lumby’s Dylan Bowen, a Cents’ d-man who split last season between the Salmon Arm SilverBacks and KIJHL North Okanagan Knights, said Pierce had some “thoughts” on Merritt’s first-period play during the intermission. He said they got the message and responded with a better effort.

“We’ve had some ups and downs. We won against Trail and lost against Trail and we’re trying to get the team in the rhythm and find out who we are as a team. Coming out with a win was big for us.”

LaCouvee, making his Centennials’ debut after being picked up from the AJHL Grande Prairie Storm last week, finished with 32 saves. He started the season with Mike Vandekamp’s Nanaimo Clippers.

Smith was steady in making 36 stops for the Vipers.

Vernon heads to Surrey Friday for the first leg of a weekend home-and-home with the Eagles.

The Vees enter tonight’s contest after suffering their first loss of the season, a 4-3 decision to the Prince George Spruce Kings Friday night at the Coliseum.

Tuesday, September 24, 2013

Building A Champion-Road To The Royal Bank Cup Video – Part 1 ‘Changes’

Building A Champion – ‘Changes’ S02-E01

Posted by HockeyTube on Sep 9th, 2013

Hockeytube.net is proud to present season two of ‘Building A Champion: Road To The Royal Bank Cup’. Our cameras follow the six-time national champion Vernon Vipers as they prepare to host the Royal Bank Cup in May 2014.

In this prologue episode we catch up with the Vipers after the team failed to make the playoffs for the second consecutive season. Since December of 2012 the team made a number of changes leading up to the RBC year.

This year we will be producing eight episodes including two that will follow the team at the trade deadline and another two episodes leading up to the RBC tournament.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lFc9IcDMbhs

If you are new to the series…watch last years six part series

http://www.hockeytube.net/category/feature-videos-that-are-trending-right-now/hockeytube-nets-original-series/

NHL Central Scouting Preliminary List Includes Vipers Forward Hannoun:

NHL Central Scouting preliminary list includes 11 CJHLers, 4 from BCHL

Monday, September 23, 2013 - Submitted by CJHL Media

NHL Central Scouting has identified 11 CJHL Players on the preliminary for the 2014 NHL Draft. The lists, comprised of "A," "B" and "C" players for the upcoming season, are sent to NHL team scouts for the purpose of tracking the top draft-eligible players entering the 2013-2014 season.

All "A" skaters have been identified as potential first-round picks, while "B" players are considered second- or third-round candidates. The players on the "C" list are thought to be fourth-, fifth- or sixth-round possibilities.

The CJHL players identified include one goaltender, five defencemen and five forwards. The eleven players and their respective teams are listed below:


Alberta Junior Hockey League

B SKATERS
Tanner MacMaster, Camrose (C)
C SKATERS
Rhett Gardner, Okotoks (C)
Brandon Hickey, Spruce Grove (D)

British Columbia Hockey League

B SKATERS
Jack Ramsey, Penticton (RW)
C SKATERS
Demico Hannoun, Vernon (C)
Luke Ripley, Powell River (D)
C GOALTENDERS
Hunter Miska, Penticton (G)

Central Canadian Hockey League

C SKATERS
Brett Garvey Brockville (D)
Kelly Summers Carleton Place (D)

Ontario Junior Hockey League

B SKATERS
Jake Evans St. Michaels (C)
C SKATERS
Jared Walsh St. Michaels (D)

Central Scouting's preliminary rankings will be revealed in November. That list includes the top 25 prospects for each of the various leagues throughout North America and Europe.

The 2014 NHL Draft, which will be held June 27-28 at Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia.

Monday, September 23, 2013

Kris Mallette's Transformation:

This was in the RBC Cup Newsletter:

Kris Mallette's Transformation

September 20, 2013

Volume 2, I ssue 4

Like many a hockey tough guy, Viper Associate Coach Kris Mallette has been a student of the game of hockey, essentially preparing for a time when he would no longer play professionally.

A hulking presence (6’4”, 230 lbs.) Mallette was an enforcer for four years with the WHL Kelowna Rockets and Moose Jaw Warriors. That role stuck with him in a pro career that took him to eight teams in four leagues. He accumulated over 2,000 penalty minutes in nine years in the International League, the East Coast League, the Central League, and the United League.

“Although I didn’t make millions, we had a comfortable living and I enjoyed the experience of seeing much of the United States,” he says, “but my wife Susie and I decided to move home to Kelowna when our first child was ready to start school.”

Back in Kelowna, Mallette got into coaching as he joined Brent Gilchrist in leading a Kelowna Tier 1 midget team to a provincial title. “I was hooked right away,” he says.

Offers started to come in from BCHL teams, but Mallette wanted to stay in the Okanagan so he accepted an assistant coach offer from the Jr. B North Okanagan Knights. When Sylvain Leone departed in 2011, Mallette took over the head coach role for two years before joining the Vipers this summer.

He and assistant Shawn Webb directed the Knights to the KIJHL final this spring. He was duly awarded the KIJHL coach of the year, after guiding his young team to a 69-30-2-3 record over two years.

With the Vipers, he’s responsible mainly for the Vipers’ defencemen and defensive zone play, as part of the defined roles that Jason Williamson has worked out with Mallette and Dave Robinson. He "loves the details of the defensive zone." He says that he also believes "in giving guys freedom to make plays in the offensive zone as long as they're responsible defensively. If you're really tight in your end, good things will happen and you can go have fun."

Mallette is bullish about the Viper defence corps – "each one brings something valuable to the table and they can all hit, which I love. We're close to becoming a really good group, but some habits have to change. I'm not expecting miracles in the early part of the season, but we do have a strong base and we will get tighter." The stats from the first five games support his cautious optimism. The team has surrendered 21 goals in that opening stretch, but at times the defence has been really tight.

One thing that he will really stress is communication. "Defensive zone draws and general defence is all about responsibility, head on a swivel, picking up your man, and
communicating. Young players have to learn to talk to one another. In an NHL game,
you can hear them yelling constantly. They know exactly what's going on out there."