Thursday, March 31, 2016

Former Vipers Defenceman Morgan Selling Florida Home:

According to Claudine Zap former Vernon Vipers defenceman-former major leaguer Nyjer Morgan is selling his Florida home in Pembroke Pines, FL for $1.2 million.

Morgan a baseball free agent played last season with the South Korean Hanwha Eagles. Morgan signed with the Eagles on December 12th 2014 was kicked out of the Eagles preseason baseball camp in February 2015 before returning to the ball club on a later date. Morgan was released after playing in just ten games. 

Morgan was drafted by the Pittsburgh Pirates in the 33rd round of the 2002 Major League Baseball Draft. On September 1st 2007 Morgan made his major league debut for the Pirates against the Milwaukee Brewers as a late-season call-up. On June 30 2009 Morgan was traded to the Washington Nationals along with pitcher Sean Burnett in exchange for outfielder Lastings Milledge and pitcher Joel Hanrahan. On March 27 2011 Morgan was traded to the Milwaukee Brewers in exchange for prospect Cutter Dykstra (son of baseball player Lenny Dykstra). After playing for three MLB teams, Milwaukee, Pittsburgh and Washington Morgan elected free agency played the 2013 season in Japan with the Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) Yokohama DeNa BayStars. Morgan would return to the Majors in 2014 where he played with the Cleveland Indians.  After just playing in 15 games spending most of his time with the Tribe on the DL Morgan was released on August 5th 2014 
before heading to South Korea last season.

Morgan attended the Vernon Vipers Training camp in 1996-97. Morgan played as an affiliated player "AP" as a 16 year old with the Vipers during the (1996-1997) season while playing with the KIJHL North Okanagan Kings.

Nyjer Morgan's Player Profile:

http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/m/morgany01.shtml

This was posted on realtor.com

Celebrity Real Estate
 
MLB’s Nyjer Morgan (aka Tony Plush) Selling Florida Home

By Claudine Zap

October 23, 2015

Former MLB outfielder Nyjer Morgan is letting go of his Pembroke Pines, FL, home for $1.2 million. The luxury home is listed by Connie Cabral with BHHS Florida Realty.

http://www.realtor.com/realestateandhomes-detail/8365-NW-30th-St_Pembroke-Pines_FL_33024_M53944-87611?row=9

The free agent known for his catchphrases and his spectacular fielding likely has no more need for a
Florida retreat. He played briefly in South Korea with the Hanwha Eagles in 2015 and is unsigned for 2016.

Morgan is leaving behind a sleek waterfront home measuring 4,410 square feet. The five-bedroom
home features “state of the art technology,” including surveillance cameras and surround sound, according to the listing.

The modern kitchen features Brazilian countertops, a wine cooler, and a butler’s pantry. The oversized master suite has a sitting area, his-and-her marble baths, and jetted tubs. There’s also a guest suite with a separate entrance. Outside, there’s a kitchen, putting green, and pool.

Most likely, his fans will continue to follow his quirky career wherever it leads. Known for his on-field antics, the fan favorite made his MLB debut in 2007 with the Pittsburgh Pirates. During his heyday in Milwaukee with the Brewers, the offbeat outfielder became known for his alter ego, Tony Plush. The 35-year-old created a Twitter account for his on-field personality and at one point reportedly had over 70,000 followers.

Wednesday, March 30, 2016

Vernon Vipers Michigan Summer Camp Schedule:

This is posted on the Vipers website:

Michigan Summer Camp Set

March 29, 2016

by Vernon Vipers

The Vernon Vipers have confirmed a hockey camp this summer in Michigan. The three day camp will be held in Canton, Michigan starting July 29th to the 31st. The deadline for registration is June 31st.  CLICK HERE TO REGISTER.

Where: Arctic Edge Canton

When: July 29-31

Registration 3-5pm Friday

Friday 6-9

Saturday 10-1 and 6-9

Sunday 10-12

Cost: $295.00

Tuesday, March 29, 2016

Ex Viper Forward Kellen Jones Returns To Mavericks:

Former Vernon Vipers forward Kellen Jones has returned to the East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) Missouri Mavericks.  Jones signed a Professional Try-Out Contract (PTO) on November 23rd 2015 with the American Hockey League (AHL) Bakersfield Condors.

Jones started the season with Missouri after signing with the Mavericks on September 24th 2015, before landing a try out with the American Hockey League (AHL) Bridgeport Sound Tigers (September 30th 2015). Jones would later be relased but was sent back down to the Mavericks. In 23 games this season with the Mavericks Kellen has (6-goals-19-assists-25-points) & in 12 games with the Condors Jones has (1-goal-2-assists-3-points).
 

Kellen & his twin brother Connor played their first pro-season last year with two different teams in two different leagues. Connor & Kellen started last season with the American Hockey League (AHL) Oklahoma City Barons also spent time with the East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) Bakersfield Condors. The Condors moved to the AHL for the 2015-16 season. In 41 games last season with the Barons Connor collected (4-goals-6-assists-10-points) and in 27 games with the Condors picked up (10-goals-16-assists-26-points). In 48 games with the Barons Kellen collected (5-goals-9-assists-14-points) and in 27 games with the Condors recorded (7-goals-18-assists-25-points). After four years at Quinnipiac University, the Jones Twins signed their first pro contract with the Barons on April 3rd 2014. The Barons assigned Connor & Kellen to Bakersfield after Training camp last year before the pair went back and fourth between the ECHL & AHL. 

Connor & Kellen both played four years in Vernon (2006-2010). Kellen played in 154 regular season games with the Vipers collecting (39-goals-134-assists-173-points). Kellen is also the all-time franchise assists leader (regular season & playoffs) with 150. Kellen was drafted in Round 7 of the 2010 NHL Entry Draft #202 overall by the Edmonton Oilers.

This is posted on the Mavericks website:

JOSH ROBINSON CALLED-UP TO AHL, KELLEN JONES RETURNS TO MAVS

02/17/2016

INDEPENDENCE, MISSOURI (February 17, 2016)— The Missouri Mavericks announced Wednesday afternoon that net-minder Josh Robinson has been called-up to the Springfield Falcons of the American Hockey League (AHL) on a professional tryout (PTO).

“Developing players for the next level has been a top priority for us this season,” said Richard Matvichuk, Head Coach & Director of Hockey Operations for the Missouri Mavericks.  “Robinson has had a great season with the Mavs and has earned the right to play in the American Hockey League.  We as an organization are very happy for him.”

Robinson currently owns a near-perfect 25-0-0-1 overall record and the ECHL record for longest single-season goaltender win streak (21 consecutive wins).

In the same morning announcement, the Mavericks are welcomed back forward Kellen Jones, who has been returned on loan from the Bakersfield Condors (AHL).  Jones appeared in 16 games, scoring 4 goals and 13 assists, for the Mavericks prior to his call-up on Nov. 23, 2015.

Monday, March 28, 2016

BCHL News & Trades:

I found these press releases off team websites, twitter accounts, blogs or online. All Vipers news-trades are posted on this blog as soon as announced.

BCHL News & Trades:

Smoke Eaters Fire Deschenes:

Nick Deschenes, has been relieved of his duties as GM/Head Coach of the Trail Smoke Eaters effective immediately.  President, Tom Gawryletz, stated, “The team has been outscored by a margin of 22-3 in the last three games but more importantly, it is obvious that the players are not responding to him.” Deschenes has coached the team for three seasons.  In 169 games the team had 49 wins, 106 losses, 12 O/T losses and 2 ties.  The team finished in last place in the2013/14 and 2014/15 seasons and currently sit in last place, one point behind the Merritt Centennials who have two games in hand. The Smoke Eater Organization thanks Nick for his contribution to the team and wishes him the best of luck in his future endeavors. Taking over the reins of the team for the remaining five games of the season will be Assistant Coaches, Curtis Toneff, Barry Zanier and Craig Clare.  The same three coaches will be running the spring camp on April 1, 2 and 3 at the Cominco Arena.

Littler Joins 700 Club:

Wenatchee Wild Head Coach Bliss Littler has broken down the door on the 700 win club only to find no other junior coaches in the room. Littler’s career as a head coach spans 23 years and five stops in the American Frontier Hockey League, American West Hockey League, United States Hockey League, North American Hockey League and now the British Columbia Hockey League. Scotty Bowman, Joel Quenneville, Al Arbour, and Ken Hitchcock have eclipsed the mark in the National Hockey League. Jerry York, Ron Mason, Jack Parker, Red Berenson, Rick Comley, and Bob Peters have done it at the college level. Norwich University’s Mike McShane is getting close. Littler contributes his success to the team owners and staff’s he been able to assemble. “I’ve been lucky to work for some of junior hockey’s best owners ever,” Littler said on Sunday. “I really appreciate owners Robin and Eric Bonanno and Butch Johnson, Ted Baer from teams past and now Lisa and David White with Wenatchee. They allowed me to hire great people as assistant coaches, trainers and equipment managers.” Littler’s reached the coaching milestone when his Wenatchee Wild defeated the Langley Rivermen 4-3 in double OT on Friday night. Already USA Hockey’s winningest coach before his Wild joined the BCHL this season, Littler’s hard work simply continues to pay off. “It takes a complete team. From the owner down to the volunteers,” Littler continued. “We have had tremendous housing families. All of these help create a culture that players can thrive in.” Littler also acknowledged the effort of the players. “The most important thing has always been the players,” Littler concluded. “We have had the privilege to bring in outstanding young men that have learned early on that it’s the players that wins games, not coaches.” Littler has also been involved in USA Hockey National Teams. Most recently he served as an assistant on the 2011 and 2008 U.S. Junior Select Teams that competed at the World Junior A Challenge. The 2011 team won the bronze medal while the 2008 squad captured the gold medal. Littler was also an assistant coach on the 2000 and 1997 USA 19 and under teams that won gold medals. In 2002, he served as head coach of the USA 19 and under team. It is my opinion that USA Hockey needs to seriously consider Littler for a permanent assignment with the national junior program. The National Junior Team Head Coach should also serve as the Head Coach of the National Team Development Program. That’s a position he has proved himself to be worthy for. There are few others that can match Littler’s work effort and passion for the game. Nobody has matched his win total.

Silverbacks mourn passing of former player Blaine Jarvis

It is with heavy hearts, that we announce that Blaine Jarvis passed away on January 26, 2016 in Pocatello, Idaho. Blaine was killed late Tuesday night in a snowmobile accident. Blaine got separated from the group with which he was riding and struck a tree. Blaine played 2 seasons with the Backs in 2002-2003 & 2003-2004 and helped them to a Interior Conference Title in 03-04 before losing in the league final and had 2 20-goal seasons while with the Silverbacks.  "I had the pleasure of coaching Blaine for two years. He was a first class young man and incredible teammate. He will be greatly missed by all that knew him" Stated Rylan Ferster who was the Head Coach for the Silverbacks in 2003-2004 and the current GM/Head Coach for the West Kelowna Warriors. “Blaine was a 2 way player who played a consistent game night after night. He was a big piece for 2 very strong Silverbacks teams. Stated Garry Davidson who was the Owner, GM & Head Coach for many years in Salmon Arm. Garry is now the General Manager of the Everett Silvertips WHL. The Silverbacks send their deepest condolences to the Jarvis family and our prayers and thoughts from Salmon Arm are with you.

American Joins Grizzlies Ownership Group:

Mark Stevens is like a modern-day Victor Kiam — the man who said he liked Remington razors so much he bought the company. Stevens’ story is slightly similar in that the Florida resident has purchased 15 per cent of the B.C. Hockey League’s Victoria Grizzlies and is also lending the now eight-person ownership group some capital to help run out the year. With four of the previous 10 owners looking to opt out and with interest in purchasing the team coming from a group in Campbell River, Grizzlies’ governor Lance Black approached Stevens, whose son Jake Stevens is a rookie defenceman with the BCHL club. Mark Stevens decided, like Kiam — a former owner of the New England Patriots, who passed away in 2001 — to get involved. Stevens, a 56-year-old independent adviser, buys out Pete Zubersky, Sonya Saujani and Bob McKenzie, who all had five per cent ownership. Jim Swanson, a managing partner with the Victoria HarbourCats, who has helped run the Grizzlies for the last five months, has also purchased Reza Binab’s five per cent. Ron Walchuk maintains 24 per cent of the club, while president and alternate governor John Wilson and team vice-president of hockey operations Donnie Robinson have 20 per cent each. “We’re excited about what’s happening here. We’re here in Victoria as long as fans are here to support us,” said Wilson, confirming the business transactions that will be made official next month. “We had some owners who wanted out. They came in to help fix it, stabilize it. We think we have that now. “They needed to move on from their situation with the club. Some had other jobs to go to and other commitments they needed to put the money toward and we were looking for someone to come in and help us.” In stepped Stevens, who says he and his wife Kristen had fallen in love with the city of Victoria and the Grizzlies’ community, having visited a handful of times to watch the team play. The Chicago native, who graduated from DePaul University in 1982 with a bachelor of arts/accounting degree, said he was a little hesitant at first, but only because of his son’s situation on the team. “It may be easier to first say why I wouldn’t want to come on board,” he said. “With my son on the team and likely planning to spend another season in junior hockey trying to earn a Division I [college] opportunity, one of the last things I’d want to do is meddle with his efforts. We’re proud that he’s a young man that wants to earn everything he gets in life and doesn’t want any help from his parents to be the reason he succeeds, and I wouldn’t want him to be any other way.” “Having said that, when we were approached with the possibility of changes, we gave deep thought to whether we might be able to do anything to help keep the team where it is. Selfishly, for our son and for all the other boys like him that could return next season, we feel they have a great situation in Victoria, which we’d like to see continue. “We’ve often said that they won the junior hockey lottery by getting a chance to play junior A hockey in a city like Victoria and if there was anything we could do to help keep it here for them, we’d like to try.” Expressing a deep appreciation for what a great city and community Victoria is, Stevens stated: “In our very limited experience, BCHL hockey belongs in Victoria and if we could have some impact on keeping it here, it would be an honour.” He also expressed his thanks for how the organization continues to try and make a proper go of it. “We’re just trying to make it work,” added Wilson, who wanted the Campbell River rumours quashed. “The hockey climate has changed in Victoria and across the country in the last five years and you can’t run the hockey business the same way you did five years ago. “We’ve had to make the changes, make cuts where needed. We have a great coaching group and volunteer group and we’re very excited about the future. “Honestly, this is the best Junior A facility in the country,” Wilson said of The Q Centre. “It’s a great barn and if we can make it work, we will. Wins are starting to come and so are the fans. “We are very close. It’s like night and day,” he said of changes made to the organization since the new ownership group took control two years ago. “We just need bums in the seats and this team will be successful here in Victoria. “Campbell River — I’m sure they were just kicking the tires. But we believe [the team] can work in Victoria and we’re working hard to make it work.” Stevens helps them do that. “Certainly while my son is on the roster, I will not want to have anything whatsoever to do with the hockey [operations] part of the team,” said Stevens, who has assigned any proxy voting rights to Black. “This was a very important point to both Jake and I in agreeing to move ahead with this. After my son moves on, I’d say that my role is yet to be determined,” said Stevens, who worked for Transilwrap Company, a plastic film manufacturer and distributor based in Chicago, with 500-plus employees and facilities throughout the U.S. and Canada, for 29 years. He purchased the business in 2004 with his management team. He sold the business to a private equity investor in 2007 and remained as CEO until 2012. Stevens currently serves on two advisory boards and works part-time as COO/adviser for a former customer of his in Connecticut — a catalog/Internet marketing company selling laminating, printing, binding equipment and related supplies.

Spruce Kings Sign Hyun Lee:

Prince George Spruce Kings assistant coach Adam Maglio knew there was something special about Chong Hyun Lee when he saw him skate last summer at a skill development camp in Vancouver.At that time, Lee was a relative unknown, a 19-year-old forward from South Korea with an itching desire to play hockey in Canada. Already living in Vancouver with his mother and brother, the Spruce Kings were unable to sign Lee because he was still in the process of getting his release from Korea to finalize his carding transfer to Hockey Canada.Lee's agent knew Frank Iantorno, general manager of the Port Moody Panthers, which led to Lee signing with the Pacific Junior (B) Hockey League team in December and he made an immediate impact. After just 19 games, he leads the Panthers in scoring with 14 goals and 24 points. On Tuesday, the Spruce Kings made it official they've signed Lee to play for the team next season and they've called him up for his second stint as an affiliated player. He's expected to be in the lineup tonight at the Coliseum where the Kings play the Mainland-Division-leading Chilliwack Chiefs.Lee will remain in Prince George for the Kings' game Saturday at home against the Merritt Centennials and for their Wednesday date at the Coliseum against the Vernon Vipers.Lee is still working on his English fluency, but as he demonstrated to the Coliseum faithful a couple weeks ago, he's well-versed in hockey. In four games with the Kings he has a goal and two assists. He scored a power-play goal in the Kings' 4-2 loss to Victoria Jan. 15. The six-foot-one, 198-pound right winger skates well, has a good shot, is hard on the puck on the forecheck and is responsible defensively.Admiral Vladivostok of the Kontinental Hockey League obviously liked Lee enough to select him in the second round of the 2013 draft, 64th overall, and he eventually made his way to the North American Hockey League, playing for two junior teams last season in La Crosse, Wisc. He also scored two goals and eight points in five games for South Korea at the Division 2A world junior championship."After his games with us, he obviously can play in this league and be a very effective player, so we decided we'd like to commit to him and (Lee and his agent) decided they'd like to commit to Prince George next year," said Maglio. "He adds what we want, some size, skating ability and some finish around the net. We'll only have him for one year, but his ambition is to try to get a (college) scholarship. "It's a good fit for him and I know the Korean Hockey Federation is happy with him playing in this league. He's part of the senior national team now and their goal is to get him ready for the 2018 Olympics."Affiliated players are allowed to play a maximum of 10 BCHL games, provided the team which holds that player's rights is still playing games. But in Lee's case with the Panthers out of the playoff hunt and their season ending Feb. 13, he could be available to play more than 10. The Kings' last four regular season games against Langley, Alberni Valley and Surrey (twice), are all after the Panthers' season ends.Kings head coach Chad van Diemen had Lee playing on a line with Kyle Johnson and Tanner Campbell, but with Campbell still out with an ankle injury suffered a week ago against Langley, one of the team's other left wingers will draw top-line duty. Lee's 16-year-old brother Chong Min, is in his second season playing major midget hockey as a forward with the Vancouver Northeast Chiefs. He has 10 goals and 28 points in 26 games.Defenceman Colton Sandberg, acquired along with future considerations in a deadline deal which sent defenceman Adam Brubacher to Powell River, is still out with a shoulder injury. Sandberg is skating with the team in practice but is not taking any contact. The Kings have also called up RW Ben Poisson from the Burnaby Winter Club academy under-18 team. Poisson, a 16-year-old from Vancouver, has played four games for the Spruce Kings as an affiliate.

BCHL New Rules-Regulations:

The BCHL’s 2016 semiannual governors meeting was held last week in Richmond, B.C. and resulted in several rules and governance changes for the league moving forward.

A pair of changes take effect immediately:

•Any play resulting in contact with a goaltender may be submitted to the BCHL office for video review. Injury is not required for a review to be requested.

•With respect to tie-breaker criteria in the standings, the following tie-breaker has been added as the third way to determine the top team: “Team having the most WINS IN GAMES AGAINST EACH OTHER”.

The following changes will take effect starting in the 2016-17 season:

•There will be no automatic penalty shot awarded for a penalty in 3-on-3 double overtime. Instead, if a team is penalized in double overtime, a 4-on-3 power play will result. If a team is penalized at any point in overtime such that a two-man advantage is called for, a 5-on-3 power play will result. Play will revert to 4-on-4, or 3-on-3, at the first stoppage after the power play ends.

•Goaltenders will be required to change ends prior to the start of the first overtime and will remain at that end for the second overtime.

•Teams will not be permitted to start main training camp prior to August 22, 2016. There will be no team activities of any kind permitted on August 20 or 21, 2016.

•The start date for the coming season will be Friday, September 9, 2016. The season end date will be Sunday, February 26, 2017. Round 1 of the playoffs will start on Friday, March 3, 2017.

•The fifth Bauer BCHL Showcase will be held September 22 to 25, 2016 at Prospera Centre in Chilliwack.

Murphy Commits To Smoke Eaters:

The Smoke Eaters are pleased to announce the signing of 97 born forward Ryan Murphy. The 5’11” 180 pound right winger who hails from Orono, Minnesota is a highly skilled forward that loves to make plays and score goals. Ryan spent two years with Okanagan Hockey Academy, registering 39 goals and 86 points in 2014-2015 before splitting this season between the Aberdeen Wings and Minnesota Magicians of the NAHL.   He came highly regarded by his former coach at OHA, Robert Dirk.. Ryan had this to say about coming to Trail. My goal has always been to play in the BCHL and last year I grew as a player and a person playing in the NAHL and now I am ready to make the next step with Trail. Trail has a strong history in developing players and I’m looking forward to being a part of that tradition. Smokies welcome Ryan and his family to the town of Trail!

Budy Commits To Rivermen For Next Season:

The Langley Rivermen are pleased to announce forward Brendan Budy (2000 born) has committed to the Rivermen for the 2016-17 season. The 5 foot 9, 160 pound 15-year-old, is a Langley, BC native and is in his second season with Delta Hockey Academy Prep (CSSHL). In 21 games this year, Budy has recorded 17 goals and 19 assists for 36 points. “It is hard to put into words how excited I am to play in the BCHL next year with my hometown team. Every conversation I have had with Mr. Henderson has been great, and I feel that It is going to be a great opportunity for me,” said Budy. Budy remembers when the Rivermen broke into the BCHL five seasons ago, and has always fantasized about playing for the franchise. “Growing up, I have been to a lot of Rivermen games at the Langley Events Centre and have always wanted to be one of those players on the ice. I have put in a lot of hard work these past few years to get to this point, and I can’t wait for next season already,” Budy continued Rivermen Head Coach and General Manager Bobby Henderson has kept a close eye on Budy over the last few seasons, and is a big fan of the way he plays the game. “Brendan is an incredibly dynamic forward. He has a nice blend of skill and grit out on the ice and has a great release. He competes every time he takes a shift, and we expect him to come in and develop into a top tier producer,” said Henderson. “I feel like I can be both a goal scorer and playmaker. My goals and assists are pretty even, and being a complete player is something I take a lot of pride in. Rivermen fans can expect a guy that will do anything it takes in order for the team to win,” finished Budy. Budy makes Langley Rivermen history, as he is the first new millennium born player to commit to the franchise. Welcome aboard Brendan!

Sunday, March 27, 2016

Former Vernon Laker Ferster Guides Warriors To Interior Division Championship:

Former Vernon Lakers forward Rylan Ferster & the West Kelowna
Warriors captured their first Interior Division Championship after winning their first Ryan Hatfield trophy with a 4-3 win over the visiting Penticton Vees Saturday. The Warriors took the best of seven series in six games. This is the Warriors first pennant-championship since the Langley Hornets moved to West Kelowna in 2006. The Warriors will now face the Chilliwack Chiefs & Nanaimo Clippers in the next round of the playoffs in a Double-Round-Robin format.

Here are the game highlight's from last night's Game 6

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_jY_qsnwQoE

Ferster is in his fifth season as Warriors Head Coach-GM played one season in Vernon winning a Centennial Cup with the 1989-90 Vernon Lakers.  In 28 games with the Lakers Ferster collected (8-goals-11-assists-19-points).

Rylan Ferster's Player-Coaching Profile:

http://www.hockeydb.com/ihdb/stats/pdisplay.php?pid=30086

Saturday, March 26, 2016

Ex Vipers Meek & MacDonald Collect Awards At Capitals Year End Awards Banquet:

After going out in six games to the Powell River Kings in the opening round of the BCHL playoffs, the Cowichan Capitals held their year end awards banquet on March 16th. Former Vernon Vipers forward Ayden MacDonald was named Playoff MVP while former Vernon Vipers defenceman Mitch Meek was named Top Defenceman.


Meek played parts of one season in Vernon last year, playing in 50 games with the Vipers collecting (6-goals-10-assists-16-points) after coming over in a trade with the Victoria Grizzlies.  On October 8th 2014 the Grizzlies traded Brandon Egli, Mitch Meek & Future Considerations to the Vipers for Aydan Macdonald & Jake Emilio. Over the off season the Vipers traded Meek in a three way deal with West Kelowna & Prince George.  On July 9th 2015 the Vipers traded Meek to West Kelowna for Mac Ferner before the Warriors traded Meek to Prince George for Luke Harrison.  The Spruce Kings traded Meek to Cowicha on August 12th 2015. In 48 games with the Capitals this year, Mick Collected (5-goals-26-assists-31-points). 

Mitch Meek's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=120807

MacDonald was recruited by the Vipers, started the 2014-15 season playing in just five games that season before being traded to the Victoria Grizzlies on October 8th 2014 along with Jake Emilio for Brandon Egli, Mitch Meek & future considerations.  After one season in Victoria the Grizzlies traded MacDonald to Cowichan May 19th 2015. In 58 games with the Capitals this season MacDonald picked up (15-goals-13-assists-28-points). 

Ayden MacDonald's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=259174

This is posted on the Capitals website:

Duncan Lions Club Award Winners

March 16, 2016

by jeff

Duncan, BC – The Cowichan Capitals held the club’s annual Duncan Lions Club awards banquet Tuesday night with Storm Phaneuf picking up the most hardware including team MVP, fan favourite, and the 3 star award.

It was also a big night for Matt Hudie as the 19 year-old picked up Rookie of the Year as well as Most Sportsmanlike Player. Corey Hoffman and Ayden MacDonald share the Playoff MVP award as both put up big offensive numbers in the Caps playoff series with Powell River but also did excellent work in all three zones.

Veteran defenseman Ben Verrall earned the Unsung Hero award while graduating forward Pat Geary picked up the Coach’s Award for his leadership, professionalism, and dedication both on and off the ice. Chris Harpur earned the Defensive Defenseman award while fellow blue liner Josh Owings took home the Most Improved Player nod. Ryan Burton earned the Faceoff Award for the second straight season for his fantastic work on the draw.

It was a fun evening celebrating the past season and recognizing graduating players and those moving on to college hockey next year. On behalf of the Capitals, thank to you all those moving on and to those players returning for next season, it’s a bright road ahead!

White Spot Most Valuable Player – Storm Phaneuf
 Playoff MVP – Corey Hoffman/Ayden MacDonald
 Rookie of the Year – Matt Hudie
 Top Defensive Defenseman – Chris Harpur
 Duncan Rotary Club Coach’s Award – Pat Geary
 Most Inspirational – Adam Osczevski
 Unsung Hero – Ben Verrall
 Leading Scorer – Kade Kehoe
 Most Popular Player – Storm Phaneuf
 CVRD Most Sportsmanlike Player – Matt Hudie
 Most Improved – Josh Owings
 Top Gun Defenseman – Mitch Meek
 Faceoff Award – Ryan Burton
 3 Star Award – Storm Phaneuf
 Jeff Price Memorial Volunteer of the Year – Natasha Winter

Friday, March 25, 2016

Vernon Viper Alumni Calvin Wins BCIHL Championship:

Former Vernon Vipers forward Dallas Calvin & the Selkirk College Saints captured their fourth straight British Columbia Intercollegiate Hockey League (BCIHL) championship with a 2-1 victory over the Trinity Western University Spartans Saturday.

Calvin is in his first season at Selkirk College. In 23 games this season with the Saints Calvin collected (20-goals-18-assists-28-points). Calvin played with the Trail Smoke Eaters last season, was an affiliated player "AP" with the Vipers during the 2012-13 season playing in one game before committing to the Vipers for the 2013-14 season. Calvin left the Vipers on October 5th 2013 after just 11 games for personal reasons, joined the KIJHL Beaver Valley Nitehawks before re-joining the Vipers after Christmas as an "AP" for the remainder of the season, playoffs & Royal Bank Cup. In 12 games with the Vipers Calvin recorded (3-goals-6-assists-9-points). 

Dallas Calvin's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=94972

This was in the Castlegar Source Newspaper:

Selkirk College Saints Cement Dynasty with Fourth Straight BCIHL Title

by Bob Hall on 20 Mar 2016

The Selkirk College Saints captured their fourth straight British Columbia Intercollegiate Hockey League (BCIHL) championship  with a 2-1 victory over the Trinity Western University Spartans before a packed house Saturday night at the Castlegar & District Recreation Complex.

More than 800 hockey fans packed the Castlegar arena to watch the Saints clinch the best-of-three final series 2-0 and put the wraps on a magical season.

“It’s a pretty special feeling to win in front of a crowd like this,” said Saints’ forward Ryan Edwards who scored the game winning goal midway through the third period.

Needing to win to stay alive, the Spartans came out strong in the first period. BCIHL Goaltender of the Year James Prigione made several key saves to keep the game tied at zeroes after 20 minutes.

The third-year goaltender continued his strong play early in the second period at which point the Spartans had the edge in shots.

Late in the second period, Edwards was hooked on a breakaway by Jeremy McIntosh. On the ensuing powerplay, Alex Millgan buried a Jamie Vlanich pass to give the Saints a 1-0 and bring the raucous crowd to its feet.

“I wanted to contribute in any way I could, especially for the guys who are in their final season here,” Milligan said after the game.

The Saints threw 20 shots at Spartans’ goaltender Silas Matthys in the middle period, but only came away with a 1-0 lead after 40 minutes.

Five minutes into the third period, TWU forward Dirk de Waal worked his way out of the corner and beat Prigione high over the blocker side to tie the game.

The Spartans kept the pressure on, but Prigone and the Saints defence were up to the task.

Midway through the final period, the Saints’ scoring line of Edwards, Dallas Calvin and Ryon Sookro came through when it mattered most. Calvin fed Sookro, who got a pass off to Edwards and the team’s leading scorer in the post-season buried the opportunity.

“That has to be right up there as far as goals,” said Edwards, who has notched plenty in his career. “It’s a good feeling to score a goal like that in a game like this.”

The Spartans didn’t quit and came hard in the final minutes, but the Saints held on for their fourth straight provincial championship.

Thursday, March 24, 2016

Chat With The Cats With Ex Vernon Viper Coughlin:

Here is an interview I found on soundcloud from December 10th 2015 with former Vernon Vipers forward Liam Coughlin.

https://soundcloud.com/uvmathletics/chat-with-the-cats-liam-coughlin

Coughlin is in his first season at the University of Vermont. In 35 games this season Coughlin has collected (3-goals-9-assists-12-points). Coughlin played two seasons in Vernon (2013-2015) playing in 107 games with the Vipers picked up (38-goals-67-assists-105-points). Coughlin was drafted 130th overall by the Oilers in Round 5 at the 2014 NHL Entry Draft. The Oilers traded Coughlin to the Chicago Blackhawks on July 6th 2015 for Anders Nilsson.

Liam Coughlin's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=248303

Wednesday, March 23, 2016

Viper Alumni Juha Named Candidate For 2015-16 Senior CLASS Award:

Former Vernon Vipers defenceman Luke Juha is one of nine Canadian Junior Hockey League alumni who were selected out of the twenty candidates for the 2015-16 Senior CLASS Award in collegiate hockey.

Juha is in his fourth year at Penn State University, is also up for the Hobey Baker Memorial Award. Juha played one season in Vernon (2011-12) played in just ten games picking up two assists, due to two long term injuries that season. The Vipers acquired Juha from the OJHL Burlington Cougars on June 27th 2011 for future considerations.

 Luke Juha's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=75054

Nine CJHL Alumni named as candidates for the 2015-16 Senior CLASS Award

Feb 02, 2016 

CALGARY, Alberta (February 2, 2016) – Nine Canadian Junior Hockey League alumni were selected out of the twenty candidates for the 2015-16 Senior CLASS Award in collegiate hockey.  Five of the alumni played at least some of their junior career in the BCHL, while three played in OJHL, three played in the CCHL and one played in AJHL.

Candidates are student-athletes that excel both on and off the ice and must be classified as an NCAA Division I senior and have notable achievements in four areas of excellence: community, classroom, character and competition.

An acronym for Celebrating Loyalty and Achievement for Staying in School ®, the Senior CLASS Award focuses on the total student-athlete and encourages students to use their platform in athletics to make a positive impact as leaders in their communities.

The 20 candidates will be narrowed to 10 finalists in February, and those 10 names will be placed on the official ballot. Ballots will be distributed through a nationwide voting system to media, coaches and fans, who will select one candidate who best exemplifies excellence in the four Cs of community, classroom, character and competition.

Hockey 2015-16 Candidates (CJHL Alumni in Bold)

Name                                                     School                                                    CJHL League

Kyle Criscuolo                                      Harvard 
Ralph Cuddemi                                     Canisius College                                       OJHL
Simon Denis                                         Ferris State University                               BCHL
Theo Di Pauli von Treuheim                Union College
Steven Fogarty                                      University of Notre Dame                       BCHL
Andrew Gladiuk                                    Bentley University                                    BCHL
David Glen                                            Penn State                                                 AJHL
Christian Hilbrich                                  Cornell
Jake Hildebrand                                     Michigan State
Soren Jonzzon                                        Quinnipiac
Luke Juha                                               Penn State                                                OJHL/BCHL
Alexander Kuqali                                   RIT
Zac Lynch                                              Robert Morris University
Rob O’Gara                                            Yale University
Jamie Phillips                                         Michigan Tech                                     OJHL/CCHL/BCHL
Ethan Prow                                             St. Cloud State University
Tyson Spink                                            Colgate                                                   CCHL
Jimmy Vesey                                          Harvard
Travis Walsh                                           Michigan State
Tyson Wilson                                          Robert Morris University                      CCHL

The Senior CLASS Award winner will be announced during the 2016 NCAA Men’s Frozen Final Four® in April.

Tuesday, March 22, 2016

Between Two Bandits - Episode 6 With Ex Viper Forward Logan Mick:

Brooks Bandits Josh Davies and Jesse Baird sit down one on one with former Vernon Vipers forward Logan Mick on Episode 6 of Between Two Bandits.

This is posted on the Bandits website:

Between Two Bandits - Episode 6

Posted February 3rd, 2016

Josh Davies and Jesse Baird are joined by Logan Mick and Parker Foo in episode six of the show!

http://www.brooksbandits.ca/media-centre/news-archives.html?newsID=8581


Mick playing in his first season with the Alberta Junior Hockey League (AJHL) Brooks Bandits collected (6-goals-11-assists-17-points) in 24 games with the Bandits this season, are in the second round of the AJHL Playoffs with the Canmore Eagles.

Mick started the season with the Salmon Arm Silverbacks, never played a single game this season due to injury was traded to Langley on October 6th 2015. Mick was released from the Rivermen after playing in 22 games (2-goals-8-assists-10points) before signing with the Bandits on December 30th 2015.

Mick played two years in Vernon (2012-2014) before being traded to the Merritt Centennials on May 29th 2014 as part of the future considerations from a trade in January. On January 3rd 2014 the Vipers sent defenceman Jason Bird & future considerations (Logan Mick) to Merritt for defenceman Dylan Chanter. In May the United States Hockey League (USHL) expansion Bloomington Thunder selected Mick 400th overall in Round 25 of Phase two of the USHL draft. On June 20th the Merritt Centennials traded Mick to the Salmon Arm Silverbacks for Luke Bertolucci & future considerations.

Logan Mick's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=120792

Monday, March 21, 2016

Former Vipers Hannoun & Auerbach Claim Top Spot In WHL With Royals:

Former Vernon Vipers forward Dante Hannoun & Former Vernon Vipers Trainer Matt Auerbach helped guide the Western Hockey League's Victoria Royals to top spot in the WHL Wednesday with a 7-4 victory over the Kelowna Rockets. With the victory, the Royals earned their first Scotty Munro Memorial Trophy in their 10-year franchise history with the best overall record in the WHL at 48-16-3-.3.

Hannoun the younger brother of former Vernon Vipers forward Demico Hannoun played one game as an "AP" (affiliated player) with the Vipers
during the 2013-14 season. Auerbach was a trainer with the Vernon Vipers back in the late 90's was also with the Alberni Valley Bulldogs before making the jump in 2006 for the WHL's Chilliwack Bruins. Auerbach has spent the past nine seasons with the Bruins & Victoria Royals.

This is posted on the Royals website:

ROYALS TAKE DOWN ROCKETS TO CLAIM TOP SPOT IN THE WHL

Mar 16, 2016

Victoria drops Kelowna 7-4.

For Immediate Release

Kelowna, BC- The Victoria Royals scored three markers in each of the opening two periods, and held off the Kelowna Rockets’ three goal middle frame, in a 7-4 victory on Wednesday night.

With the victory, the Royals earned their first Scotty Munro Memorial Trophy in their 10-year franchise history with the best overall record in the WHL at 48-16-3-3.

Special teams played a large part for the Royals as they registered four goals on the man-advantage. Victoria’s Alex Forsberg (2g-2a) and Tyler Soy (1g-3a) both amassed four points on the night, and each added a powerplay goal for the visitors. The Royals also received a pair of markers on the man-advantage from Jack Walker. Victoria’s other goals were scored by Ethan Price and Vladimir Bobylev.

The Rockets also had powerplay success as Dillon Dube, Calvin Thurkauf, Cal Foote and Tomas Soustal all tallied on the man-advantage.

Victoria’s Coleman Vollrath got the nod in net and made 26 saves on 30 shots. Kelowna’s netminder Michael Herringer turned aside 29 of the 36 shots fired his way.

The Royals went 4/9=44.4% on the powerplay, while Kelowna held a 4/6=66.6% mark on the man-advantage.

Victoria has now set their new single season point record at 102, and have tied the franchise’s longest win streak at 11 games.

The Royals will play their last road game of the season as they head to Everett, WA to face the Silvertips on Friday night. Puck drop is scheduled for 7:35 p.m.

Victoria returns home on Saturday to wrap-up the regular season with a match against the Everett Silvertips on Fan Appreciation Night. Puck drop slated for 7:05 p.m. Tickets can be purchased in person at the Select Your Tickets Box Office, over the phone by calling 250-220-7889 or by visiting www.selectyourtickets.com.

The Royals will have home ice advantage in the first round of the 2016 WHL Playoffs with Games 1 & 2 on Friday, March 25th and Saturday, March 26th. Single game tickets for the playoffs are on sale now at the Select Your Tickets Box Office located at Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre, over the phone at 250-220-7777 or online at www.selectyourtickets.com.
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Sunday, March 20, 2016

Viper Alumni Coughlin Named AHC Defensive Player Of The Week:

Former Vernon Vipers defenceman Johnny Coughlin has been named the AHC Defensive Player of the Week.

Coughlin played one season in Vernon last year (2014-15) playing in 55 games with the Vipers, collecting (3-goals-15-assists-18-points). Coughlin is in his first season with the Holy Cross Crusaders.

Johnny Coughlin's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=301076

This is posted on the Crusaders website:

Johnny Coughlin Named AHC Defensive Player Of The Week

Holy Cross Athletics   02-23-2016

WORCESTER, Mass. – Holy Cross freshman defenseman Johnny Coughlin (Fairport, N.Y.) has been named the Travel Team USA Atlantic Hockey Defensive Player of the Week for his performance in the two-game sweep of AIC on Feb. 19-20. This is Coughlin’s first AHC weekly award.

Coughlin netted his first two collegiate goals on the week. In the 8-1 win versus AIC on Feb. 19, he scored his first collegiate goal and posted an assist. Then on Feb. 20 and with the score tied at 1-1, he netted the game-winning goal with just 2:30 left in the third period. He was also part of a defense that allowed only two goals. For the season, he has two goals and five assists for seven points.

The Crusaders (16-11-5, 14-7-5 AHC) will conclude the regular season with a home-and-home series with Sacred Heart (12-16-4, 10-13-3 AHC) on Friday and Saturday, Feb. 26-27, at 7:05 p.m. Friday’s game will be in Milford, Conn., while Saturday’s game is at the Hart Center and is Senior Night. The Crusaders are tied for second place with 33 points with Air Force and RIT. Robert Morris is first with 36 points.

To purchase tickets for the 2015-2016 Holy Cross men's hockey season, call 1-844-GOCROSS or visit GoHolyCross.com/Tickets.

There are numerous ways to stay connected with the Holy Cross men's hockey team. Follow the Crusaders on Twitter @HCrossMHockey, Facebook and Instagram.

Saturday, March 19, 2016

Tufto Named To BCHL All-Rookie Team:

This is posted on the BCHL website:

2015-16 1st, 2nd, Rookie Teams named

March 18, 2016

Just as Round 2 of the BC Ford Dealers Road to the Fred Page Cup BCHL Playoffs get started tonight, the league is announcing its All-Star Teams for the 2015-16 season.

The results come from polling of BCHL play-by-play broadcasters.

BCHL 1st Team All-Stars:

F – Tyson Jost, Penticton Vees
F – Sheldon Rempal, Nanaimo Clippers
F – Scott Conway, Penticton Vees

D – Dante Fabbro, Penticton Vees
D – Yanni Kaldis, Nanaimo Clippers

G – Jeff Smith, Powell River Kings

BCHL 2nd Team All-Stars:

F – Jordan Kawaguchi, Chilliwack Chiefs
F – Jonathan Desbiens, West Kelowna Warriors
F – Colin Grannary, Merritt Centennials

D – Dennis Cholowski, Chilliwack Chiefs
D – Adam Brubacher, Powell River Kings

G – Anthony Brodeur, Penticton Vees

All-Rookie Team:

F – Vimal Sukumaran, Chilliwack Chiefs
F – Easton Brodzinski, Penticton Vees
F – Odeen Tufto, Vernon Vipers

D – Michael Faulkner, Merritt Centennials
D – Charlie Barrow, Coquitlam Express

G – Garrett Nieto, Wenatchee Wild

Friday, March 18, 2016

Vipers Look Ahead To 2016-17:

This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:

Vipers look ahead to 2016-17

by Roger Knox - Vernon Morning Star

Mar 18, 2016

It’s next year already for Mark Ferner.

Forty-eight hours after his Vernon Vipers were eliminated from the opening round of the B.C. Hockey League playoffs by the Penticton Vees, the head coach and general manager was in his Kal Tire Place office working the phones and beginning to build next season’s squad.

“It never ends,” said Ferner. “We’ve already started our recruiting.”

The Vipers, picked by many to give the defending league champion Vees a run for the Interior Division championship, instead needed to win their final game of the regular season to get into the post-season.

Vernon finished tied for fourth place with the Merritt Centennials with a record of 24-31-3-0, and advanced because of having one more victory than Merritt.

“Were we ready to win this year? Probably not,” said Ferner. “Our cupboards were pretty empty last year. Our goal was to go as far as possible but when you run up against a team like that (Penticton, who was first overall with 50 wins), it’s tough.”

The “cupboards being empty” is a reference to the fact the Vipers had no 20-year-old players to lean on. The five graduating Vipers, including Ferner’s son, Mac, came from outside the organization.

Ferner, Bo Pellah, Latrell Charleson and Ben Butcher were acquired in trades while Andrew Shortridge won the starting goalie job in training camp. He spent last season in the North American Hockey League.

“We didn’t have a 20-year-old that was homegrown, that had been in this organization and knows the expectations and the culture,” said Ferner.

“All five of our 20s never played here before and that hurts. When you bring in older players, you bring in the culture from where they came from and that may not necessarily be the culture we want.”

The Vipers will lose three other players to U.S. college scholarships, including second-year forward Liam Finlay, who has decided to attend the University of Denver a year ahead of schedule.

Joe Sacco is going to the University of New Hampshire and Charlie Michalowski is off to Ivy League school Dartmouth.

Next season, the Vipers have the ability to return 14 players, of which 10 will be 19- or 20-years-old.

“The future is brighter,” said Ferner, who will also have defencemen Carter Stephenson and Chris Jandric (younger brother of forward Steven) on the roster.

The blueline pair played in a number of games for Vernon as call-ups.

“The big thing for me is to make sure we have good people, the character aspect is important,” said Ferner.

“We lose Fin (Finlay) so we’ll have to look for that kind of player. We need some bodies on the back end as well as a goalie so it’s going to be busy and I want to make sure we get the right types of people in here.”

The Vipers will hold a spring camp April 22-24 at Kal Tire Place.

n The league’s best-of-seven divisional finals begin tonight.

In Penticton, the Vees host the West Kelowna Warriors.

The Mainland Division final has the Wenatchee Wild taking on the Chiefs in Chilliwack.

And in Nanaimo, the Clippers entertain the Powell River Kings.

The three winners will then take part in a double round-robin to determine the two Fred Page Cup finalists.

Thursday, March 17, 2016

Ex Viper MacDonald Receives Honorable Mention For Player Of The Week:

Former Vernon Vipers forward Ayden MacDonald received honourable mention for Player of the Week.

MacDonald was recruited by the Vipers, started the 2014-15 season playing in just five games that season before being traded to the Victoria Grizzlies on October 8th 2014 along with Jake Emilio for Brandon Egli, Mitch Meek & future considerations.  After one season in Victoria the Grizzlies traded MacDonald to Cowichan May 19th 2015. In 58 games with the Capitals this season MacDonald picked up (15-goals-13-assists-28-points). 

Ayden MacDonald's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=259174

This is posted on the BCHL website:

Kaldis Takes POW Honours

March 14, 2016

(Submitted by Alex Hoegler, BCHL communications)

Nanaimo Clippers defenceman Yanni Kaldis has been named BCHL Player of the Week for the week ending March 13, the league announced Monday.

Kaldis led all defencemen in points throughout the week with six. He had two goals and four assists as the Nanaimo Clippers eliminated the Alberni Valley Bulldogs in five games. The Saint-Laurent, Que. native scored the overtime winner in Game 3 and was named 1st star. He also took home 3rd star honours in Games 4 and 5.

Honourable mentions this week:

Wenatchee Wild F Kyle Stephan: 4G, 3A, 2nd Star, GWG

West Kelowna Warriors G Matthew Greenfield: 3W, two 1st Stars, 139 saves/147 shots, 0.946 sv %, 2.01 GAA

Penticton Vees F Scott Conway: 2G, 4A, 2nd Star, 3rd Star

Powell River Kings F Kyle Betts: 2G, 2A, 1st Star, 2nd Star, OT GWG, GWG,

Cowichan Valley Capitals F Aiden MacDonald: 1G, 4A, three FortisBC Energy Player of the Game honours, OT GWG

Wednesday, March 16, 2016

Vernon Vipers 2015-16 Tribute Picture Video:

Thanks to Lisa M Photography for posting this Vernon Vipers tribute picture video, from the 2015-16 season.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AqaipHRxwxs

Here is Lisa M's twitter account for more of her photos,

https://twitter.com/LisaMPhotos?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw

Tuesday, March 15, 2016

Harbinson Recaps 1st Round vs Vipers:

This is posted on Fraser Rodgers Penticton Vees Blog:

First Round Recap with Fred Harbinson

March 14th 2016

Penticton Vees play play by guy Fraser Rodgers sat down with Vees Head
Coach Fred Harbinson on the weekend, after the Vees beat the Vernon Vipers 4-1 in their Interior Division Semi-Final. Topics he covered with Coach include Game Five, closing out the series, Scott Conway’s dominance of Vernon, how key special teams were and, of course, the colour comments made throughout the series. Harbinson gives a very honest and insightful look at a very emotional rivalry with Vernon, and his thoughts on some colourful comments directed to towards the team and him.

Fred Harbinson Interview,

http://www.pentictonvees.ca/first-round-recap-with-fred-harbinson

Fraser Rodger's Penticton Vees Blog,

http://www.pentictonvees.ca/category/blog

Monday, March 14, 2016

Vernon Vipers Prospect Camp Schedule:

This was posted on the Vipers website:

Vernon Vipers Prospect Camp

Our Prospect camp will be held April 22nd– 24th 2016 in Vernon, BC. Each player will be guaranteed at least 4 games (Depending on playoff schedule). Camp will begin Friday afternoon and conclude early Sunday afternoon.

This Showcase camp will consist of 6 Teams with 16 players each. My staff and I will expect the pace and compete level of the camp to be very high with players trying to earn permanent positions on the Vipers for the upcoming season.

The Vernon Vipers staffs expects this camp to be one of the most competitive camps we have had, with players competing at a high level for roster spots on one of the most prestigious JR A programs in Canada. At the completion of this Showcase camp we will provide you feedback on where you reside within our organization.  I also would like to indicate to you the importance of this Showcase camp as it will provide us which Vernon Viper prospects will be invited to our main training camp or we will be signing players directly out of camp.

We currently have a high number of players moving on after this season. We have tremendous opportunity for players to be able to come in and play prominent roles within our hockey team.   I have enclosed a registration form please fill out and mail/fax it back to the address or number listed on the form.

If you require further information please feel free to contact the Vipers office at 250-542-6022.

Sunday, March 13, 2016

Special Teams Help Vees Cruise Past Vernon, Cinch Series:

This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:

Special teams help Vees cruise past Vernon, clinch series

by Emanuel Sequeira - Penticton Western News

Mar 13, 2016

The Penticton Vees made the Vernon Vipers pay for their undisciplined play.

The Vees went three-for-nine on the man advantage to pound the Vipers 5-0 and win their BCHL Interior Division series, 4-1.

"They came out hard. We were able to capitalize on the mistake there," said Vees goalie Zachary Driscoll, who earned his first playoff shutout with a 26-save effort. "Take a penalty and we're going to jump on that."

Nicholas Jones, who hurt the Vipers on the penalty kill in Game 4 with two shorthanded goals, put the only necessary dagger into the Vipers 1:16 in the game. Jones was able to bag his fifth goal of the playoffs after pouncing on a rebound at the side of the net from an Easton Brodzinski shot. Dante Fabbro also collected an assist.

"We came out ready tonight," said Driscoll. "I think any time we can get the first goal at home it's a huge advantage to us. We were able to build a lot of momentum out of it."

The opening period was filled with penalties as both teams took three apiece. After trailing in the shot count in the opening frame, the Vipers caught up and had some of their best scoring chances late. The first by Jimmy Lambert, who put a backhand shot just wide of the net. Bo Pellah then had another chance, but missed the goal. Then Liam Finlay had a great opportunity but was robbed by Driscoll's left pad at 7:24.

While it was physicality that got the Vipers in trouble, Demico Hannoun showed you can throw big hits and not be sent to the box. He dished out what was likely the biggest hit as he laid out Pellah behind the Vipers goal. The Viper needed some time to get back up.

The Vees put the game away in the second frame with four goals in the opening 10 minutes. A minute into the frame, Scott Conway and Owen Sillinger set up Mitchell Brooks, who was parked just outside the Vipers crease and ripped a shot top corner past Andrew Shortridge's glove. Later on, a line with Conway and Tyson Jost buzzed the Vipers goal peppering shots. Brodzinski got his first of two on the night when he beat Shortridge blocker side to make it 3-0. The Vipers called a timeout to try and regroup. Less than three minutes after Brodzinski's tally, while on the power play, Fabbro made Sedin-like slap pass to find Jost near the side of the crease and the captain redirected it past Shortridge. Three minutes later, Brodzinski got his second of the night on a lucky bounce that got past the Vipers goalie, who finished with 27 saves.

"I think it started with the discipline. They got very undisciplined," said Conway, who had a three assist night. "It's pretty hard to stop our power play unit, how we're clicking and the guys on it. I think that's what dictated that game."

The Vees penalty kill was perfect in killing off all five Vernon power plays.

Vipers captain Colton McCarthy said after having a good start, they came out flat in the second period.

"Took some dumb penalties that they capitalized on," said McCarthy. "The ability to battle back after a big goal has been scored is one of the problems that we faced tonight.

"It was definitely a tough way to end the series," added McCarthy. "We battled hard for all five games. The boys are a little bit upset here and I think we deserved a better fate, but that's how hockey goes, that's how playoffs go."

Driscoll said it was a great feeling to get a shutout. Doing it in the playoffs is even better, he added.

"It's not an individual effort at all," said Driscoll. "The boys played great in front of me tonight. It was a heck of a win."

Saturday, March 12, 2016

Interior Division Semi-Finals: Vipers-Vees Game 5 Highlight's:

Here are the Game 5 highlight's from the Interior
Division Semi-Finals Friday night in Penticton. The Vees took Game five 5-0 winning the series in five games.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vSrxIM8gZ5g