Royal Bank Cup: (Game Preview) Wellington @ Vernon:

Today is the fifth day of the 2011 Royal Bank Cup. The Fred Page Cup & Doyle Cup Champion Vernon Vipers are making their ninth appearance in the RBC Cup trying to become the first team in history to win three straight National Championships. The Vipers are also going for a record seventh RBC Cup. The Vipers are coming off a seven game series victory over the AJHL Spruce Grove Saints. The OJHL Dudley Hewitt Cup champion Wellington Dukes are making their second appearance in the Royal Bank Cup and trying to win their first ever National Championship. The Dukes are coming off a 5-3 win over the Huntsville Otters in the final to win the Dudley Hewitt Cup. You can listen to today's game live on 107.5 Kiss FM with Todd Miller and Don Klepp starting with the pre game show at 2:15 PM (BC Time)

Previous Game:

Vernon:  Monday, May 2nd Vernon defeated Portage 5-2
Wellington:  Monday, May 2nd Camrose defeated Wellington 5-2

Next Game:

Vernon:  Thursday, May 5th Pembroke @ Vernon
Wellington:  Thursday, May 5th Portage @ Wellington

RBC Cup Standings: Wins Losses GF GA

1. Vernon Vipers 2 0 9 4
2. Camrose Kodiaks 2 1 9 8
3. Pembroke Lumber Kings 1 1 7 7
4. Portage Terriers 1 2 9  11
5. Wellington Dukes 0 2  4  8

Let's take a look at the Vernon Vipers: (Regular Season)

Games Played: 60
Wins: 36
Losses: 11
Ties: 4
Overtime Losses: 9
Home Record: 18-5-2-5
Road Record: 18-6-2-4
Streak: Finished the regular season on a three game winning streak
Last Ten Games: 8-1-0-1
Goals For: 197
Goals Against: 141
Standings: 1st Place (Interior Conference)

Vernon Vipers website:

http://www.vipers.bc.ca/

Vernon Vipers Regular Season Stats:

-Vernon was ranked #9 in all of Canada in the CJHL regular season

-The Vipers powerplay was ranked 12th during the regular season

-Vernon’s penalty kill was ranked 5th during the regular season

-Blake Voth was the leagues 3rd best goaltender during the regular season posting a 25-11-3 record, with 4 shutouts and a 2.12 GAA

-Vernon had the leagues second best home record behind Powell River going 18-5-2-5 at the Wesbild Centre

-The Vipers were the BCHL’s second best road team behind the Powell River Kings, going 18-6-2-4 away from home

-The Vipers only gave up 141 goals against during the regular season, wich was also second best behind Powell River who only gave up 115 goals

-Vernon is 22-3-3-8 when scoring the games first goal

-The Vipers are 14-8-1-1 when giving up the first goal of the game

The Vernon Lakers changed their name to the Vernon Vipers to start the 1995-96 season. Here’s a look at the Vipers all-time regular season record

Games Played: 960
Wins: 619
Losses: 245
Ties: 15
Overtime Losses: 84

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

Returning Players:

Bryce Kakoske (90)
David Robinson (90)
Blake Voth (91)
Steve Weinstein (90)
Adam Thompson (90)
Dylan Walchuk (92)
Patrick McGillis (91)

Departing & traded players from last years team:

Connor Jones (90)
Mike Collins (90)
Braden Pimm (89)
Cory Kane (90)
Jonathan Milhouse (89)
Kellen Jones (90)
Rob Short (89)
Cole Ikkala (90)
Dan Nycholat (89)
Kevin Kraus (89)
Curtis Gedig (91)
Garrett Noonan (91)
Sahir Gill (92)
Darrin Robak (91)
Graeme Gordon (89)

Here's a look at the Vernon Vipers regular season roster-stats:

Vernon:

Dylan Walchuk (24-32-56)
David Robinson (32-18-50)
Bryce Kakoske (17-33-50)
Kyle Murphy (18-25-43)
John Knisley (10-25-35)
Malcolm Lyles (8-22-30)
Michael Zalewski (12-17-29)
Adam Thompson (7-22-29)
Marcus Basara (12-16-28)
Darren Nowick (9-18-27)
Patrick McGillis (13-12-25)
Aaron Hadley (9-15-24)
Steven Weinstein (5-19-24)
Brett Corkey (1-23-24)
Trevor Fitzgerald (7-11-18)
Max Mowat (2-13-15)
Ryan Renz (4-10-14)
Colton Sparrow (1-6-7)
Dane Muench (1-5-6)
Zach McPhee (3-1-4)
Philip Patenaude (0-1-1)

Kirby Halcrow With Quesnel (5-18-1 Record, 3.56 GAA)
With Vernon (10-4-1 Record, 1 Shutout, 2.19 GAA)
Blake Voth (25-11-3 Record, 4 Shutouts, 2.12 GAA)

Let's take a look at the Vernon Vipers: (BCHL Playoffs-Doyle Cup)

Games Played: 23
Wins: 16
Losses: 7
Home Record: 6-5
Road Record: 10-2
Streak: Finished playoffs on a one game winning streak
Last Ten Games: 8-2
Goals For: 70
Goals Against: 59

1st Round: Bye
Interior Conference Semi-Finals: Defeated Westside in six games
Interior Conference Finals: Defeated Salmon Arm in six games
Fred Page Cup-BCHL Finals: Defeated Powell River in four games
Doyle Cup: Defeated Spruce Grove in seven games

Vernon Vipers Playoff Stats:

-Vernon has the 12th best powerplay in the BCHL playoffs

-The Vipers have the 6th best penalty kill during the BCHL post season

-Kirby Halcrow (12-6 Record) is ranked 4th amongst BCHL playoff goaltenders

-Dylan Walchuk (10-5-15) & Patrick McGillis (6-9-15) are both in the BCHL playoffs top twenty scoring leaders

-Vernon is 2-6 in these playoffs when giving up the games first goal

-The Vipers are 13-1 in these playoffs when scoring first

Here's a look at the Vernon Vipers playoff-Doyle Cup roster-stats:

Vernon Vipers:

Dylan Walchuk (14-7-21)
Patrick McGillis (6-10-16)
David Robinson (8-7-15)
Marcus Basara (5-9-14)
Bryce Kakoske (5-7-12)
Michael Zalewski (5-6-11)
Darren Nowick (3-7-10)
Malcolm Lyles (5-5-10)
Adam Thompson (3-6-9)
Trevor Fitzgerald (4-4-8)
John Knisley (3-3-6)
Aaron Hadley (2-4-6)
Steven Weinstein (0-6-6)
Brett Corkey (0-6-6)
Colton Sparrow (2-3-5)
Kyle Murphy (2-3-5)
Dane Muench (3-2-5)
Ryan Renz (0-3-3)
Max Mowat (0-2-2)
Zach McPhee (0-1-1)
Philip Patenaude (0-0-0)

Kirby Halcrow (15-6 Record, 1 Shutout)
Blake Voth (1-1, 3.74 GAA Record)

Let's take a look at the Vernon Vipers: (Royal Bank Cup)

Games Played: 2
Wins: 2
Losses: 0
Streak: Two game winning streak
Goals For: 9
Goals Against: 4

Here's a look at the Vernon Vipers Royal Bank Cup roster-stats:

John Knisley (2-1-3)
Darren Nowick (1-2-3)
Michael Zalewski (1-2-3)
Brett Corkey (1-1-2)
Adam Thompson (0-2-2)
David Robinson (1-1-2)
Marcus Basara (0-2-2)
Bryce Kakoske (0-1-1)
Steven Weinstein (0-1-1)
Aaron Hadley (0-1-1)
Dane Muench (0-1-1)
Ryan Renz (1-0-1)
Colton Sparrow (0-0-0)
Dylan Walchuk (0-0-0)
Kyle Murphy (0-0-0)
Malcolm Lyles (0-0-0)
Philip Patenaude (0-0-0)
Trevor Fitzgerald (0-0-0)

Kirby Halcrow (2-0 Record, 2.00 GAA)
Blake Voth (0-0 Record)

Let's take a look at the Vernon Vipers: (All-Time Record-Stats At The Royal Bank Cup)

Games Played: 46
Wins: 32
Losses: 14
Goals For: 216
Goals Against: 161

Vernon Vipers-Lakers (Royal Bank Cup Records)

Most National Championships: Vernon Vipers-Lakers-6

Most Royal Bank Cup Appearances: Vernon Vipers-Lakers-9

Most wins at the Royal Bank Cup: Vernon Vipers-Lakers-32

Most goals scored at the Royal Bank Cup: Vernon Vipers-Lakers-216

Most Goals combined between two teams in one game: Vernon Lakers defeated Nipawin Hawks 11-5 (1990) * Record tied one other team

Last National Championship Appearance: 2010 – national champions

Total National Championship Appearances: 9 (1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1996, 1999, 2009, 2010, 2011)

Total National Championships: 6 (1990, 1991, 1996, 1999, 2009, 2010)

Let's take a look at the OJHL Wellington Dukes: (Regular Season)

Games Played: 50
Wins: 38
Losses: 7
Overtime Losses: 5
Home Record: (Not Available)
Road Record: (Not Available)
Streak: (Not Available)
Last Ten Games: (Not Available)
Goals For: 197
Goals Against: 128
Standings: 1st Place

Wellington Dukes website:

http://wellingtondukes.com/

Wellington Dukes Regular Season Stats:

-The Dukes powerplay was ranked 5th during the regular season

-Wellington's penalty kill was ranked 13th during the regular season

Returning Players:

(Not Available)

Departing & traded players from last years team:

(Not Available)

Here's a look at the Wellington Dukes regular season roster-stats:

Wellington Dukes:

Sean Rudy (22-51-73)
Joe Zarbo (33-29-62)
Steve Evans (27-21-48)
Zach Blake (16-27-43)
Darcy Murphy (14-27-41)
Brian Bunnett (16-17-33)
Darcy Greenaway (17-10-27)
Brendan Barletta (7-20-27)
Simon Bessette (8-14-22)
Curtis Leonard (2-20-22)
Zach Jones (7-12-19)
Cam Yuill (6-11-17)
Jeff Stanton (3-13-16)
Rusty Hafner (1-15-16)
Elliott Richardson (2-9-11)
Zach Allen (3-5-8)
Jan Kaminsky (2-5-7)
Brandon McIntosh (0-7-7)
Michael Montford (1-5-6)
Wil Healey (1-2-3)
Darryl Snelling (0-1-1)
Braden Kavaratzis (0-0-0)

Jordan Ruby (26-5-4 Record, 3 Shutouts, 2.21 GAA)
Craig Rylett (1-0 Record, 2.40 GAA)

Let's take a look at the Wellington Dukes: (Playoffs)

Games Played: 25
Wins: 20
Losses: 5
Home Record: (Not Available)
Road Record: (Not Available)
Streak: (Not Available)
Last Ten Games: (Not Available)
Goals For: 100
Goals Against: 46

1st Round: Wellington defeated Upper Canada Patriots in four games
2nd Round: Wellington defeated Villanova Knights in five games
Semi-Finals: Wellington defeated Stouffville Spirit in six games
OJHL Finals: Wellington defeated Oakville Blades in five games
Dudley Hewitt Cup
RR – 2nd place (defeated Wisconsin Wilderness 7-2, defeated Soo Eagles 7-1, lost to Huntsville Otters 3-2 2OT)
SF – defeated Soo Eagles 3-2 4OT
FINAL – defeated Huntsville Otters 5-3

Here's a look at the Wellington Dukes playoff roster-stats:

Wellington Dukes:

Sean Rudy (11-17-28)
Joe Zarbo (11-17-28)
Steve Evans (6-12-18)
Zach Blake (3-3-6)
Darcy Murphy (9-11-20)
Brian Bunnett (6-9-15)
Darcy Greenaway (10-4-14)
Brendan Barletta (2-3-5)
Simon Bessette (5-1-6)
Curtis Leonard (2-3-5)
Zach Jones (1-6-7)
Cam Yuill (3-3-6)
Jeff Stanton (2-2-4)
Rusty Hafner (1-7-8)
Elliott Richardson (0-7-7)
Jan Kaminsky (2-2-4)
Brandon McIntosh (0-4-4)
Michael Montford (0-0-0)
Wil Healey (0-0-0)
Darryl Snelling (0-0-0)
Braden Kavaratzis (2-5-7)

Jordan Ruby (16-4 Record, 3 Shutouts. 1.71 GAA)
Craig Rylett (0-0 Record)

Let's take a look at the Wellington Dukes: (Royal Bank Cup)

Games Played: 2
Wins: 0
Losses: 2
Streak: Two game losing streak
Goals For: 4
Goals Against: 8

Here's a look at the Wellington Dukes Royal Bank Cup roster-stats:

Sean Rudy (0-2-2)
Joe Zarbo (1-1-2)
Cam Yuill (2-0-2)
Steve Evans (1-2-3)
Simon Bessette (0-1-1)
Jan Kaminsky (0-1-1)
Jeff Stanton (0-1-1)
Zach Blake (0-0-0)
Darcy Murphy (0-0-0)
Brian Bunnett (0-0-0)
Darcy Greenaway (0-0-0)
Brendan Barletta (0-0-0)
Curtis Leonard (0-0-0)
Zach Jones (0-0-0)
Rusty Hafner (0-0-0)
Elliott Richardson (0-0-0)
Brandon McIntosh (0-0-0)
Michael Montford (0-0-0)
Wil Healey (0-0-0)
Darryl Snelling (0-0-0)
Braden Kavaratzis (0-0-0)

Jordan Ruby (0-2 Record, 3.20 GAA)
Craig Rylett (0-0 Record)

PLAYERS TO WATCH

JORDAN RUBY

steals games on his own … great size … great quickness … quick glove … good lateral quickness … very good worth ethic … makes second-effort saves … high level of compete … stays square to the puck

SEAN RUDY

big, strong centre … lots of skill … good skating stride … good balance … very good size and frame … good puck protection … does a good job of fighting through checks … likes to play physical

JOSEPH ZARBO

dangerous sniper … very good shot … above average skater … good job of getting into scoring position … can shoot in stride … good power play performer … good stick-handler … quick hands

NCAA COMMITMENTS

Curtis Leonard – Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (2011-12)
Jordan Ruby – Rochester Institute of Technology (2011-12)
Sean Rudy – Bemidji State University (2011-12)
Joe Zarbo – Clarkson University (2011-12)

Let's take a look at the Wellington Dukes: (All-Time Record-Stats At The Royal Bank Cup)

Games Played: 7
Wins: 2
Losses: 5
Goals For: 14
Goals Against: 24

Last National Championship Appearance: 2003

Total National Championship Appearances: 2 (2003, 2011)

Total National Championships: 0

Vipers Flex Early RBC Muscle:

This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:

Vipers flex early RBC muscle

By Graeme Corbett - Vernon Morning Star

Published: May 04, 2011

CAMROSE – While the Tories were busy rolling towards a majority government, the Vernon Vipers were also on the rise at the Royal Bank Cup national junior A hockey championships Monday.

The Vipers cashed in on back-to-back slashing penalties to the Portage Terriers on the way to a 5-2 win in preliminary play Monday afternoon before 1,500 fans at the lavishly appointed Edgeworth Centre.

Combined with Saturday’s 4-2 win over the host Kodiaks in the the tournament opener, the Snakes were in sole possession of first place at 2-0 heading into their off-day Tuesday. They go up against the Central champion Wellington Dukes of Ontario today at 2:30 p.m. (PDT). They end the round-robin Thursday (6:30 p.m.) against the Eastern champion Pembroke Lumber Kings, also of Ontario. Semifinals go Saturday and the championship-game is Sunday on TSN.

The Vipers delivered an early one-two punch to the Terriers, capitalizing on a 5-on-3, and again on the subsequent 5-on-4 to send the Manitoba champions reeling.

Captain Dave Robinson pocketed the first goal at the side of the net, tapping home a nicely threaded pass from point man Adam Thompson at 11:52. Defenceman Ryan Renz earned the other goal late on the 5-on-4 when his slap pass from the point fooled everyone, including netminder Kirk Crosswell.

Game MVP Dylan Walchuk made it 3-0 before the first intermission as he wheeled out from the corner and lifted a wrister over a screened Crosswell (20 saves).

The two-time defending national junior A champion Vipers swarmed the Terriers (1-1) in the first period, outshooting Portage 12-1 in the opening frame, and 25-17 overall.

Walchuk, who now has 24 points in 25 postseason games, said the quick start seemed to suck the life out of Portage.

“It was huge. We got those three quick goals and for the most part played solid all game. We kind of let up in the end there and got away from our game a little bit, but we took a time-out and after that we were good,” said the McBride product.

Added Terriers’ head coach Blake Spiller: “I thought we matched them pretty well early, but we just didn’t get pucks to the net. They got the one late on the 5-on-4 and it seemed to take the wind out of our sails, and they took it to us for the balance of that period.”

The Terriers picked up their game in the second period, but it was the Vipers that found the net. Forward Marcus Basara, intercepting a clearance at the Portage blueline, caught the Terrier defence napping as he fired a hard pass down low to Walchuk at the side of the net where he quickly buried a shot before Crosswell, a Nanaimo product, could get set.

Portage, who grounded the SJHL La Ronge Ice Wolves in the Anavet Cup to advance to nationals, continued pressing in the third period, and were rewarded with goals from Tanner Waldvogel and captain Stephane Pattyn to cut the lead in half.

Waldvogel, one of three Portage la Prairie skaters on the roster, netted a rebound in a goalmouth scramble after Kirby Halcrow had made a stop at the side of the net.

“In the first period, we came out and we started running around. They’re a quick team and we knew they’d be good and we just had a few mental lapses that cost us. It’s pretty hard to come back from three goals. Getting off to a slow start against those guys is never going to be a good thing,” said Waldvogel.

“We outplayed them for quite a while in the last two periods and we won the third so we can’t really complain about that. It’s a long week so we’ll get them in the end hopefully.”

Spiller liked the way the Terriers finished and feels it will fuel their confidence moving forward.

“We got ourselves within two, and then one good bounce one way or the other and you never know what can happen. I was pretty proud of our guys and the way they stuck with the game,” he said.

“We did get some confidence… but tomorrow is going to be another tough day, just like yesterday was and just like Thursday will be. There are no easy clubs.”

After watching complacency creep into his team’s game in the third period, head coach Mark Ferner couldn’t give the Vipers full marks despite controlling the majority of play.

“Happy to win two games, but I think we’ve got a long way to go. The result was positive, the process is still not there,” he said.

“You can look at the score, you can look at the shots but it was closer than that. Portage came hard, they had us on our heels and we just scored on some opportunities. We got it to (4-0) and we let our foot off the gas and that’s what happens.”

The Vipers buckled down defensively after the second Portage goal and added one of their own to complete the scoring. John Knisley was left with a gimme in the crease after linemate Mike Zalewski stripped a Portage d-man at the blueline and came up just short with his wraparound attempt on a partial breakaway.

Halcrow recorded 15 stops for the win.

Darren Nowick scored the winner five minutes into the third period as the Vipers opened by stopping Camrose.

The two-time defending RBC champion Vipers got off to a solid start, recording goals two minutes apart by defenceman Brett Corkey and Zalewski, on the powerplay, early in the first.

Robinson and Bryce Kakoske drew assists on the first goal at 4:12, and Nowick (1+2, game MVP) and Adam Thompson set up the second strike.

Mario Boilard responded for the Kodiaks with a powerplay goal at 16:30, assisted by Ben Gallacher and Rylan Wiest.

The Snakes took three straight minors in the second period, but worked their penalty kill to keep the same scoreline heading into the second intermission.

In the Monday-night game, Jonathan Milley netted two goals just 73 seconds apart early in the second period as the Lumber Kings stuffed the Dukes 5-2 before 1,300 fans.

Matthew Peca and Matthew Zay each pocketed a goal and an assist for Pembroke (1-1). Lumber King captain Ben Reinhardt added two helpers in support of netminder Francis Dupuis (20 saves).

Cam Yuill, the lone Wellington product on the Dukes (0-2), had both his team’s goals.

SNAKE BITES: The Vipers have nine round-robin wins in their last 10 RBC preliminary games, dating back to the 2009 RBC Cup in Victoria…Rookie D Max Mowat and rookie F Zach McPhee sat out both Viper wins. Veteran F Pat McGillis is injured but listed as probable for tonight’s game...All but five Portage players hail from Manitoba.

Spruce Grove Mayor Reflects On Series:

This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:

Spruce Grove mayor reflects on series

Published: May 04, 2011

As the mayor of Spruce Grove, Alta. and a property owner at Peregrine Point in Vernon, the Doyle Cup battle between these two cities took on a very special meaning for me over the past two years.

As an avid Saints fan and season-ticket holder, my wife and I are treated to watching one of the best junior A hockey teams in the country.

I am also a huge Vipers fan, proudly sporting my Vipers hat when we drop in to watch the Vipers play during our fall and winter ski trips to the valley.

I’ve also become a proud owner of a snappy Vipers’ jersey compliments of Mayor Wayne Lippert as a result of a friendly wager we had.

In fact, I have had to wear it to a city council meeting for the past two years as a result of our Spruce Grove Saints just falling short of winning the Doyle Cup, losing in game seven each year.

As cities, we are so lucky to have such community spirit and pride in our junior A hockey teams.

We all need something to cheer for and most Canadians find it very easy to cheer for hockey, especially Saints and Vipers fans.

I give much credit to both teams. They gave it their all and I think of what could have been for the Saints.

The shots were dead even at 27 a piece. Spruce Grove hit the goal post on a shot from the point then Vernon picked up the rebound and attacked on a three-on-two, scoring the winning goal with just six minutes remaining in the game, resulting in their victory of the Doyle Cup.

I will now be making the trek to Camrose for the RBC Cup to watch some incredible hockey and I will be pulling for the Vernon Vipers, one of Canada’s most storied franchises.

So here is looking forward to the RBC Cup. I will be standing proudly in the crowd chanting Go Saints Go!! Whoops that would be, Go Vipers Go!!

Stuart Houston

Spruce Grove Mayor

Royal Bank Cup: Camrose 4 Portage 2

This is on the RBC Cup website:

Game Summary

Portage Terriers 2 - Camrose Kodiaks 4

KODIAKS SCORE BY COMMITTEE, LOCK UP SEMIFINAL SPOT WITH WIN OVER TERRIERS

CAMROSE, Alta. – Clayton Jardine scored just 38 seconds after the opening face-off to get the offence rolling as the Camrose Kodiaks locked up a spot in Saturday’s semifinals following a 4-2 victory over the Portage Terriers on Tuesday night.

Four players scored goals and eight had at least a point for the Kodiaks, who advanced to the final four at the National Junior A Championship for the sixth time in as many all-time appearances.

Landon Kadatz, Ben Gallacher and Kenny Bradley had the other goals for Camrose (2-1), which outshot the Terriers 25-22, including 13-4 in the third period. Dalyn Flette, who made 20 saves in the Kodiaks goal, was at his best in the second period, when the Terriers held a 12-5 advantage in shots but went from a 1-0 deficit to a 3-0 hole.

Tanner Waldvogel and Mike Gemmill scored the goals for Portage (1-2), which lost its second in a row in the final game of a three-games-in-three-nights stretch. Waldvogel’s goal gives him a tournament-leading five points (two goals, three assists) in three games.

Camrose wraps up its preliminary round on Wednesday night when it faces Pembroke (7:30 p.m. MT), while Portage will enjoy its first off-day since Saturday before concluding preliminary play against Wellington on Thursday afternoon (3:30 p.m. MT).

For more on tonight's game check out the boxscore,

http://www.hockeycanada.ca/index.php/ci_id/75138/la_id/1/game_id/157729/season_id/157706/ss_id/73728/

Dylan Walchuk-Mark Ferner Royal Bank Cup Post Game Interview:

Vernon Vipers forward & player of the game, Dylan Walchuk along with Vipers head coach-gm, Mark Ferner talk about the Vipers 5-2 win over the Portage Terriers Monday afternoon. Terriers forward, Tanner Waldvogel & Portage head coach, Blake Spiller talk about falling behind early to the Vipers and having to battle back.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mEQvV-tAx5w

Nowick Named Player Of The Week:

No problems for Nowick in Game 1 of RBC Cup

Monday, May 2, 2011 - Submitted by BCHL Media

Vernon Vipers forward Darren Nowick has been named the BCHL Player of the Week for the week ending May 1, the league announced on Monday.

Nowick came up big for the Snakes in the opening game of the 2011 RBC Cup against the host Camrose Kodiaks. The Long Beach, Calif. native scored a goal and set up two others including the game-winning tally by Michael Zalewski as Vernon double up Camrose 4-2 at Edgeworth Centre.

The 5-foot-10, 170-pound forward came in to the RBC Cup with three goals and seven assists since the postseason began. His showing in the first game has him currently alone at the top of the tournament scoring list and earned him a Player of the Game nod.

Honourable mentions go to Zalewski and John Knisley who each had a goal and an assist in the win.

Darren Nowick-Mark Ferner Royal Bank Cup Post Game Interview:

Vernon Vipers forward & player of the game, Darren Nowick and Vipers head coach-gm, Mark Ferner talk about the Vipers opening win over the Camrose Kodiaks at the Royal Bank Cup Saturday night. Camrose Kodiaks captain, Clayton Jardine & Kodiaks head coach, Boris Rybalka talk about the 4-2 loss to the defending champs.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uyFPGN-9u3c

Former Viper Morgan Slated To Return On Tuesday:

Here is a article on former Vernon Vipers defenceman, Nyjer Morgan that was posted on the Milwaukee Brewers website yesterday. Morgan played two games with the Vipers as an "AP" back during the 1996-97 season.

This is posted on the Brewers website:

Outfielder Morgan slated to return on Tuesday

By Guy Curtright / Special to MLB.com | 05/02/11

ATLANTA -- Nyjer Morgan's weekend rehab with Triple-A Nashville was cut back to less than two full games, but the fleet Brewers outfielder is still all set to rejoin the active roster when eligible on Tuesday.

"It would have been nice to get a few more at-bats, but I'm ready to go," Morgan said "I feel good. No issues at all. I want to get back in there."

Morgan was hitting .455 in 22 at-bats when he suffered a bruised right quad on April 17 during a collision at home plate in Pittsburgh. Of his 10 hits, he had two doubles and two triples.

Hopefully he's as hot as he was before," Brewers manager Ron Roenicke said. "That would be nice."

Morgan, acquired from the Nationals near the end of Spring Training, tested his right leg with a couple of feet-first slides for Nashville, going 1-for-2 in steal attempts in two games, and reported no problems.

Morgan was 2-for-3 with a walk at the plate on Saturday in his only full game. Because of problems with his flight, he arrived in Nashville after Friday's game with Albuquerque had already started and the game on Sunday was rained out.

Right fielder Corey Hart returned from the DL while Morgan was out. But Morgan is expected to get starts in center field for Carlos Gomez and also be available for outfield duty when Hart needs a day off.

Vernon Cruises To Win Over Portage:

This is posted on the Vipers website:

Vernon cruises to win over Portage

by Don Klepp | Added 2011-05-02

The Vipers built a commanding first period lead and then coasted to a 5-2 win over the Portage Terriers Monday afternoon in the Royal Bank Cup in Camrose, Alberta.

The team from Portage La Prairie, Manitoba came out strong and had a slight edge in play for the first three shifts of the game. Then, a dominating shift by Vernon’s fourth line of Aaron Hadley, Trevor Fitzgerald, and Colton Sparrow set the tone for the remainder of the opening period.

When the whistle blew after 20 minutes, the Vipers had out shot the Western representatives 14-1 and had created a 3-0 lead.

Midway through the opening frame, penalties to Adam Robson and Kajon McKay gave the Vipers a two-man advantage. David Robinson made the Terriers pay when he swept in Dylan Walchuk’s perfect pass at 11:52.

The Vipers converted the second half of the power play at 13:00 when Ryan Renz’s slider from the right point snaked through a forest of legs and just inside Kirk Croswell’s right goal post.

Dylan Walchuk gave his team a three-goal lead at 17:15. He collected the puck from passes made by Dane Muench and Marcus Basara and showed great patience while stick handling around three Terriers high in the Portage zone.

Walchuk’s hard wrist shot took a slight deflection before whistling into the top corner.

In the second and third periods, the Vipers relaxed and the Terriers fought back. In the second, they had more scoring chances than the Vipers but were unable to beat a steady Kirby Halcrow.

To make matters worse, Portage gave up the only goal of the period. Marcus Basara created space for himself with his patented high slot swoop and shot high on Croswell. The rebound fell to Dylan Walchuk, who whirled and beat the former Williams Lake Timberwolf netminder.

Early in the third, Kyle Murphy nearly made the score 5-0 when his snap shot went off the cross bar.

However, the Terriers bounced back with two goals created by relentless fore checking. Stephane Pattyn and Tanner Waldvogel set each other up for hard-working goals at 1:47 and 8:42.

After the second goal, Coach Mark Ferner gently scolded his troops during a TV timeout and they responded with a stronger effort.

One instance of that redoubled effort resulted in a John Knisley goal at 11:49. Darren Nowick hustled to win a puck battle deep in his zone and he then scooted up the right side. He passed to Mike Zalewski who came off the left wing and tried a high speed wrap around. Knisley was there to pop in the rebound.

The Vipers, who were out shot 16-11 over the final two periods, will next face the Wellington Dukes at 2.30 Pacific time on Wednesday afternoon.

Each of the other four teams in the RBC Cup has suffered a defeat. The Vipers have a 2-0 record, which means that they already have a strong chance of qualifying for one of the two semi-final games scheduled for Saturday.

Royal Bank Cup: Pembroke 5 Wellington 2

This is posted on the RBC Cup website:

Game Summary

Wellington Dukes 2 - Pembroke Lumber Kings 5

MILLEY SCORES TWICE TO LEAD LUMBER KINGS TO FIRST WIN

CAMROSE, Alta. – Jonathan Milley scored twice in a span of 73 seconds early in the second period to turn a 1-0 lead into a 3-0 advantage as the Pembroke Lumber Kings earned their first win of the 2011 RBC Cup, 5-2 over the Wellington Dukes on Monday night.

The win was Pembroke’s second in three tries against teams from Ontario at the National Junior A Championship – the Lumber Kings beat the Aurora Tigers in 2007, but lost to the Thunder Bay Flyers in 1988.

Matthew Peca and Matthew Zay finished with a goal and an assist each for Pembroke (1-1), which also got a goal from Mitchell Gallant. Lumber Kings captain Ben Reinhardt had two helpers in the victory.

Cam Yuill scored both goals for Wellington (0-2), which outshot its opponent for the second night in a row – it held a 30-22 advantage over the Lumber Kings – but is still looking for its first victory.

After playing on back-to-back days both teams will enjoy a day off Tuesday before getting back to action on Wednesday. Wellington takes on first-place Vernon in the early game (3:30 p.m. MT), while Pembroke meets host Camrose in the nightcap (7:30 p.m. MT).

For more on tonight's game check out the boxscore,

http://www.hockeycanada.ca/index.php/ci_id/75138/la_id/1/game_id/157726/season_id/157706/ss_id/73728/

Royal Bank Cup: Vernon 5 Portage 2

I was at this afternoon's Royal Bank Cup as Vernon defeated Portage 5-2 at the Edgeworth Centre.

Starting Goaltenders:

Vernon: Kirby Halcrow
Portage: Kirk Croswell

1st Period: Some good back and forth play coming from both teams early but with no scoring chances as both teams battled back and forth. It took the Vipers almost four minutes to record their first shot on goal. Marcus Basara really used his speed to his advantage looking very good in the opening period, Basara generated a few opportunities early. Portage would get the games first powerplay but the Vipers penalty kill was good killing off the minor. Bryce Kakoske with a nice pass from behind the Terriers goal went through the slot as no Viper player was in front. Vernon slowly started to take over and carried most of the play the entire period. Portage was having all kinds of trouble with the Vipers speed and skill. The Terriers would get into penalty trouble giving Vernon a long two man advantage just past the midway mark and the Vipers capitalized. Moving the puck well, Adam Thompson with a nice pass down low found Vipers captain, David Robinson at the side of the net who slid the puck into the open cage as Kirk Croswell tried to get across the crease but was too late as the Vipers with a 1-0 lead at 11:03 Thompson and Dylan Walchuk collected the helpers. With Vernon still on the powerplay Ryan Renz's point shot somehow beat Croswell at 13:00 giving Vernon a 2-0 lead. Trevor Fitzgerald and Colton Sparrow picked up the assists. Just a few minutes later John Knisley tried feeding Colton Sparrow on a parcial two on one but Josh Dufresne made a strong defensive play to break up the odd man rush. With 4:27 remaining Mike Zalewski alone in the slot was robbed by the quick glove hand of Kirk Croswell. Just under a minute later Dane Muench setup Dylan Walchuk at 17:15 who beat Croswell giving Vernon a 3-0 lead. Muench and Marcus Basara collected the assists. Portage couldnt get into the Vipers zone as Vernon dominated the 1st period. In the final minutes with some good pressure down low, Kyle Murphy was stopped by Croswell at the side of the net. Vernon outplayed Portage and was the better team. The Vipers with a solid twenty minute effort played a solid opening period. The Terriers only shot on goal came in the opening few minutes. Vernon was up 3-0 after 20 minutes of play. The Vipers outshot the Terriers 14-1.

2nd Period: In nthe opening minute Dylan Walchuk fed Dane Muench on a two on one but Kirk Croswell slid acoss the crease to make a huge pad save. The Terriers got off to a much better start in the middle frame getting four quality chances in the opening few minutes but Kirby Halcrow who only saw one shot the entire 1st period made some good saves early. Portage was playing with a little more grit and was being a little more aggresive on the forecheck. The Vipers were back on their heels a little to start the period getting just two shots on goal in the first five minutes of play. Vernon would get the first powerplay of the period but the Terriers penalty kill was good killing off the minor. Portage carried the better of the play early but the Vipers defence did a great job at keeping the Terriers offence to the outside. Vernon with just four shots in the first half of the period. The Terriers with some good pressure held a Vernon line hemmened in deep in their own zone, with a tired Vipers line who couldnt clear the zone Portage with some good pressure down low created some open ice before getting two good cahcnes but couldnt find the back of the net before the Vipers finally cleared the zone and got a line change. On the next shift just past the midway mark Marcus Basara's shot from the high slot was stopped by Croswell but Dylan Walchuk was on the doorstop putting home the rebound at 13:02 giving the Vipers a 4-0 lead and in full control. Basara with the lone assist. The Terriers looked much better in the 2nd period but the Vipers defence didnt give up alot of quality scoring chances shutting down Portage's offence. In the final minute of play Malcolm Lyles shorthanded carried the puck out from his own end before trying to go through three Terriers, Lyles was caught deep in the Portage zone, allowing the Terriers to come back with an odd man rush wich forced Kirby Halcrow to make two huge saves in the dying seconds. Halcrow made a huge save off the wrap around on the Terriers first scoring opportunity and then made the second save on the rebound keeping the Terriers off the score board. Portage with a much better performance couldnt capitalize on a few good scoring chances. Vernon was up 4-0 after 40 minutes of play. The Terriers outshot the Vipers 8-7.

3rd Period: The Terriers started the 3rd still on the man advantage that was carried over from the end of the 2nd period. Portage unable to capitalize went back to five on five hockey. The Terriers got the play back in deep and with some good pressure down low Portage was able to carry the play and had the Vipers running around in their own end. Stephane Pattyn with a great chance in front somehow missed a wide open cage before Tanner Waldvogel beat Halcrow on the second chance getting the Terriers on the board at 1:47. Pattyn and Shaquille Merasty with the helpers. Just seconds later Portage would get an early powerplay and get a great chance early after Josh Dufresne's point shot was tipped in front by Tanner Harms but Kirby Halcrow stood tall making a big save. This being the lone scoring opportuity for the Terriers the Vipers would kill off the minor, just as the penalty expired Marcus Basara stepped out of the penalty box going in on a parcial breakaway but Basara couldnt beat Croswell. Just a minute later the Vipers would get called for too many men on the ice giving the Terriers another early man advantage. Vernon's penalty kill was sharp and would kill off the penalty. Just after the penalty kill, Dane Muench and Dylan Walchuk on a two on one but Muench who shot couldnt beat the quick glove of Kirk Croswell. Shortly after some good pressure down low by Portage allowed Tanner Waldvogel to setup Stephane Pattyn who just got his shot to get through Kirby Halcrow at 8:42 getting the Terriers to within two goals. Waldvogel and Tyler Harland with the assists. The Vipers would come right back, David Robinson setup Kyle Murphy on a parcial two on one, Murphy beat Croswell but hit the crossbar on a great chance. Brendan Harms would come back the other way and get a great chance in front but just missed the far corner. Back come Mike Zalewski with speed beat the Portage d-man before going for the wrap around, Zalewski with an empty cage fed John Knisley who was alone in front who hit the open cage after Kirk Croswell fell trying to get across the crease as the Vipers jumped out to a 5-2 lead. Zalewski with the lone assist. The Vipers then did a great job at just getting the puck in deep and killing valuable time off the clock. Portage would get a few shifts deep in the Vernon zone in the final few minutes but unable to really generate any real good scoring chances. The Terriers battled hard and created some good chances but the Vipers 4-0 lead was enough to hang on for the victory. In the end Vernon would defeat Portage 5-2 moving to 2-0 while the Terriers fell to 1-1. Portage outshot Vernon 8-4.

Top Players: (Vernon)

Brett Corkey played a strong game on the Vipers blueline. Corkey looked very solid.

Adam Thompson (1 assist) Thompson saw alot of minutes this afternoon and also looked very solid for the Vipers defence.

Dylan Walchuk (2 goals & 1 assist) Was very good up front for the Vernon Vipers. Walchuk looked very good with the puck, The Terriers had trouble slowing down and containing Walchuk most of the game.

Aaron Hadley played an aggresive game in and around the scrums and in front of the net. Hadley and Tanner Waldvogel exchanged words as well as a few shots with one another. I thought Hadley did a great job at trying to get under the skin of several different Terriers. Hadley took several wacks and shots after heading off to the Vipers bench.

Marcus Basara (2 assists) Marcus Basara played very well for the Vipers today. Basara really used his speed to his advantage as the Terriers had troubles containing Basara. I thought Basara played very well in the opening period creating some good chances buzzing in and around the Portage zone.

Kyle Murphy was another Vernon player who looked and played very well. Murphy hitting the crossbar in the 3rd played well at both ends of the rink.

Dane Muench (1 assist) Dane Muench played fairly well in todays 5-2 victory. Muench had two, two on ones getting stopped on one of them. Muench played very well positionally and was really skating hard today.

Top Players: (Portage)

Josh Dufresne I thought was on of the Terriers best d-men. Saw alot of ice-time, played very well defensivly.

Tyler Harland (1 assist) Was another Portage defenceman who played well on the backend. Jumped up into te play at times, good quick moving d-man.

Stephane Pattyn (1 goal and 1 assist) Pattyn was named the player of the game for the Terriers and generated some good chances. One of their more offensive players looked good in the 2nd and 3rd periods.

Tanner Waldvogel (1 goal & 1 assist) Played very aggresive, got involved in the after the whistle activities and didnt back down from the rough stuff.

Game Thoughts: (Vernon)

The Vipers improve to 2-0 at the RBC Cup after playing a pretty solid road game. Vernon with a solid 20 minute opening period jumped out to a 3-0 lead after outplaying the Terriers. The Vipers speed and skill was just too much for Portage. In the 2nd Portage come out with a little more grit and forced the Vipers a little but give credit to Vernon as their defence did a great job at keeping the Terriers to the outside and didnt give up alot of scoring opportuities. Up 4-0 going into the 3rd did the Vipers sit back or did the Terriers just battle hard and work hard to earn two hard fought goals? I thought the Vipers speed and skill was just too much for the Terriers, I really liked the defensive play by Vernon. Jumping out to a 4-0 lead really made Portage have to battle back and in the end run out of time.

Game Thoughts: (Portage)

The Terriers got off to a rough start falling down 3-0 after being outplayed the entire 1st period. Portage with just a single shot in the 1st couldnt get any offence going. But give the Terriers credit, they battled hard and didnt give up coming out with a much better effort and performance in the 2nd and 3rd periods. I thought Portage played with alot more grit, played a little more aggresive and carried the better of the play at times in both the 2nd and 3rd periods. The Terriers got better as the game went on but going down 4-0 and trying to get through Vernon's defence is just too much to ask. Portage couldnt contain or slow down the speedy Vipers.

Scratches:

Vernon:

Max Mowat
Zach McPhee
Patrick McGillis

Portage:

Mitch Wiebe
Rob Paulson
Cody Nelson
Connor Lockhart
Cory More

Players Of The Game:

Vernon: Dylan Walchuk (2 goals and 1 assist)

Portage:

Stephane Pattyn (1 goal & 1 assist)

For more on tonight's game check out the boxscore,

http://www.hockeycanada.ca/index.php/ci_id/75138/la_id/1/game_id/157723/season_id/157706/ss_id/73728/

Royal Bank Cup: Game Preview: Vernon @ Portage:

Today is the third day of the 2011 Royal Bank Cup. The Fred Page Cup & Doyle Cup Champion Vernon Vipers are making their ninth appearance in the RBC Cup trying to become the first team in history to win three straight National Championships. The Vipers are also going for a record seventh RBC Cup. The Vipers are coming off a seven game series victory over the AJHL Spruce Grove Saints. The MJHL Portage Terriers are making their third appearance in the Royal Bank Cup and trying to win just their second National Championship. The Terriers are coming off a 4-0 victory in game seven over La Ronge to win the Anavet Cup. You can listen to today's game live on 107.5 Kiss FM with Todd Miller and Don Klepp starting with the pre game show at 2:15 PM (BC Time)

Previous Game:

Vernon:  Saturday, April 30th Vernon defeated Camrose 4-2
Portage:   Sunday, May 1st Portage defeated Pembroke 5-2

Next Game:

Vernon: Wednesday, May 4th Wellington @ Vernon
Portage: Tuesday, May 3rd Portage @ Camrose

RBC Cup Standings: Wins Losses GF GA

1. Portage Terriers 1 0 5 2
2. Vernon Vipers 1 0 4 2
3. Camrose Kodiaks 1 1 5 6
4. Wellington Dukes 0 1 2 3
5. Pembroke Lumber Kings 0 1 2 5

Let's take a look at the Vernon Vipers: (Regular Season)

Games Played: 60
Wins: 36
Losses: 11
Ties: 4
Overtime Losses: 9
Home Record: 18-5-2-5
Road Record: 18-6-2-4
Streak: Finished the regular season on a three game winning streak
Last Ten Games: 8-1-0-1
Goals For: 197
Goals Against: 141
Standings: 1st Place (Interior Conference)

Vernon Vipers website:

http://www.vipers.bc.ca/

Vernon Vipers Regular Season Stats:

-Vernon was ranked #9 in all of Canada in the CJHL regular season standings

-The Vipers powerplay was ranked 12th during the regular season

-Vernon’s penalty kill was ranked 5th during the regular season

-Blake Voth was the leagues 3rd best goaltender during the regular season posting a 25-11-3 record, with 4 shutouts and a 2.12 GAA

-Vernon had the leagues second best home record behind Powell River going 18-5-2-5 at the Wesbild Centre

-The Vipers were the BCHL’s second best road team behind the Powell River Kings, going 18-6-2-4 away from home

-The Vipers only gave up 141 goals against during the regular season, wich was also second best behind Powell River who only gave up 115 goals

-Vernon is 22-3-3-8 when scoring the games first goal

-The Vipers are 14-8-1-1 when giving up the first goal of the game

The Vernon Lakers changed their name to the Vernon Vipers to start the 1995-96 season. Here’s a look at the Vipers all-time regular season record

Games Played: 960
Wins: 619
Losses: 245
Ties: 15
Overtime Losses: 84

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

Returning Players:

Bryce Kakoske (90)
David Robinson (90)
Blake Voth (91)
Steve Weinstein (90)
Adam Thompson (90)
Dylan Walchuk (92)
Patrick McGillis (91)

Departing & traded players from last years team:

Connor Jones (90)
Mike Collins (90)
Braden Pimm (89)
Cory Kane (90)
Jonathan Milhouse (89)
Kellen Jones (90)
Rob Short (89)
Cole Ikkala (90)
Dan Nycholat (89)
Kevin Kraus (89)
Curtis Gedig (91)
Garrett Noonan (91)
Sahir Gill (92)
Darrin Robak (91)
Graeme Gordon (89)

Here's a look at the Vernon Vipers regular season roster-stats:

Vernon:

Dylan Walchuk (24-32-56)
David Robinson (32-18-50)
Bryce Kakoske (17-33-50)
Kyle Murphy (18-25-43)
John Knisley (10-25-35)
Malcolm Lyles (8-22-30)
Michael Zalewski (12-17-29)
Adam Thompson (7-22-29)
Marcus Basara (12-16-28)
Darren Nowick (9-18-27)
Patrick McGillis (13-12-25)
Aaron Hadley (9-15-24)
Steven Weinstein (5-19-24)
Brett Corkey (1-23-24)
Trevor Fitzgerald (7-11-18)
Max Mowat (2-13-15)
Ryan Renz (4-10-14)
Colton Sparrow (1-6-7)
Dane Muench (1-5-6)
Zach McPhee (3-1-4)
Philip Patenaude (0-1-1)

Kirby Halcrow With Quesnel (5-18-1 Record, 3.56 GAA)
With Vernon (10-4-1 Record, 1 Shutout, 2.19 GAA)
Blake Voth (25-11-3 Record, 4 Shutouts, 2.12 GAA)

Let's take a look at the Vernon Vipers: (BCHL Playoffs-Doyle Cup)

Games Played: 23
Wins: 16
Losses: 7
Home Record: 6-5
Road Record: 10-2
Streak: Finished playoffs on a one game winning streak
Last Ten Games: 8-2
Goals For: 70
Goals Against: 59

1st Round: Bye
Interior Conference Semi-Finals: Defeated Westside in six games
Interior Conference Finals: Defeated Salmon Arm in six games
Fred Page Cup-BCHL Finals: Defeated Powell River in four games
Doyle Cup: Defeated Spruce Grove in seven games

Vernon Vipers Playoff Stats:

-Vernon has the 12th best powerplay in the BCHL playoffs

-The Vipers have the 6th best penalty kill during the BCHL post season

-Kirby Halcrow (12-6 Record) is ranked 4th amongst BCHL playoff goaltenders

-Dylan Walchuk (10-5-15) & Patrick McGillis (6-9-15) are both in the BCHL playoffs top twenty scoring leaders

-Vernon is 2-6 in these playoffs when giving up the games first goal

-The Vipers are 13-1 in these playoffs when scoring first

Here's a look at the Vernon Vipers playoff-Doyle Cup roster-stats:

Vernon Vipers:

Dylan Walchuk (14-7-21)
Patrick McGillis (6-10-16)
David Robinson (8-7-15)
Marcus Basara (5-9-14)
Bryce Kakoske (5-7-12)
Michael Zalewski (5-6-11)
Darren Nowick (3-7-10)
Malcolm Lyles (5-5-10)
Adam Thompson (3-6-9)
Trevor Fitzgerald (4-4-8)
John Knisley (3-3-6)
Aaron Hadley (2-4-6)
Steven Weinstein (0-6-6)
Brett Corkey (0-6-6)
Colton Sparrow (2-3-5)
Kyle Murphy (2-3-5)
Dane Muench (3-2-5)
Ryan Renz (0-3-3)
Max Mowat (0-2-2)
Zach McPhee (0-1-1)
Philip Patenaude (0-0-0)

Kirby Halcrow (15-6 Record, 1 Shutout)
Blake Voth (1-1, 3.74 GAA Record)

Let's take a look at the Vernon Vipers: (Royal Bank Cup)

Games Played: 1
Wins: 1
Losses: 0
Streak: One game winning streak
Goals For: 4
Goals Against: 2

Here's a look at the Vernon Vipers Royal Bank Cup roster-stats:

Darren Nowick (1-2-3)
John Knisley (1-1-2)
Michael Zalewski (1-1-2)
Brett Corkey (1-0-1)
Adam Thompson (0-1-1)
Bryce Kakoske (0-1-1)
David Robinson (0-1-1)
Steven Weinstein (0-1-1)
Aaron Hadley (0-0-0)
Colton Sparrow (0-0-0)
Dane Muench (0-0-0)
Dylan Walchuk (0-0-0)
Kyle Murphy (0-0-0)
Malcolm Lyles (0-0-0)
Marcus Basara (0-0-0)
Philip Patenaude (0-0-0)
Ryan Renz (0-0-0)
Trevor Fitzgerald (0-0-0)

Kirby Halcrow (1-0 Record)
Blake Voth (0-0 Record)

PLAYERS TO WATCH

MALCOLM LYLES

offensive-minded defenceman … doesn’t give up anything defensively … great instincts with the puck … makes quick decisions … good gap control … strong skater … heavy point shot … good passer

DAVID ROBINSON

plays a physical style … finishes his checks … wins loose puck battles along boards and in front … hard, accurate shot … powerful skating stride … protects the puck well … gets into scoring positions

DYLAN WALCHUK

highly skilled … good offensive instincts … smooth puck handler … true competitor … versatile … extremely quick feet … excellent work ethic … dangerous on the PP … fights through checks

NCAA COMMITMENTS

John Knisley – Cornell University (2011-12)
Malcolm Lyles – University of Massachusetts Lowell (2011-12)
Ryan Renz – Northeastern University (2011-12)
Adam Thompson – Yale University (2011-12)
Dylan Walchuk – Northern Michigan University (2011-12)
Steven Weinstein – Bentley University (2011-12)
Michael Zalewski – Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (2012-13)

Let's take a look at the Vernon Vipers: (All-Time Record-Stats At The Royal Bank Cup)

Games Played: 45
Wins: 31
Losses: 14
Goals For: 211
Goals Against: 159

Vernon Vipers-Lakers (Royal Bank Cup Records)

Most National Championships: Vernon Vipers-Lakers-6

Most Royal Bank Cup Appearances: Vernon Vipers-Lakers-9

Most wins at the Royal Bank Cup: Vernon Vipers-Lakers-31

Most goals scored at the Royal Bank Cup: Vernon Vipers-Lakers-211

Most Goals combined between two teams in one game: Vernon Lakers defeated Nipawin Hawks 11-5 (1990) * Record tied one other team

Last National Championship Appearance: 2010 – national champions

Total National Championship Appearances: 8 (1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1996, 1999, 2009, 2010)

Total National Championships: 6 (1990, 1991, 1996, 1999, 2009, 2010)

Let's take a look at the MJHL Portage Terriers: (Regular Season)

Games Played: 60
Wins: 40
Losses: 15
Overtime Losses: 7
Home Record: (Not Available)
Road Record: (Not Available)
Streak: (Not Available)
Last Ten Games: (Not Available)
Goals For: 227
Goals Against: 164
Standings: 1st Place (MJHL Division)

Portage Terriers website:

http://www.portageterriers.com/_mgxroot/page_10764.html

Portage Terriers Regular Season Stats:

-The Terriers powerplay was ranked 3rd during the regular season

-Portage's penalty kill was ranked 6th during the regular season

-Camrose is 24-7-0-3 when scoring the games first goal

-The Kodiaks are 7-16-0-3 when giving up the first goal of the game

Returning Players:

(Not Available)

Departing & traded players from last years team:

(Not Available)

Here's a look at the Portage Terriers regular season roster-stats:

Portage Terriers:

Tyler Moore (25-35-60)
Brent Wold (22-46-68)
Shaquille Merasty (22-22-44)
Brendan Harms (28-35-63)
Kajon McKay (5-24-29)
Mike Gemmell (14-14-28)
Tanner Harms (22-29-51)
Andrew Wiebe (16-15-31)
Cody Kostecki (5-13-18)
Stephane Pattyn (21-41-62)
Kyle Turgeon (8-13-21)
Tanner Waldvogel (18-24-42)
Josh Dufresne (4-19-23)
Yvan Pattyn (6-12-18)
Riley Hay (1-1-2)
Kenton Valliant (0-7-7)
Brett Adnum (2-10-12)
Adam Robson (2-9-11)
Cody Nelson (0-0-0)
Tyler Harland (3-4-7)
Cameron Canart (0-0-0)
Eric Coulombe (2-7-9)
Nicco Digiovannantonio (0-0-0)
Brandon Lauder (1-0-1)
Austin Lewis (3-6-9)
Conner Lockhart (0-0-0)
Benji Micflikier (0-0-0)
Cory More (7-14-21)
Colin Mospanchuk (1-0-1)
Paul Zysko (0-2-2)

Kirk Coswell (16-12 Record, 2 Shutouts, 2.75 GAA)
Jason Kasdorf (24-10 Record, 2 Shutouts, 2.53 GAA)

Let's take a look at the Portage Terriers: (Playoffs)

Games Played: 24
Wins: 16
Losses: 8
Home Record: (Not Available)
Road Record: (Not Available)
Streak: (Not Available)
Last Ten Games: (Not Available)
Goals For: 85
Goals Against: 56

1st Round: Portage defeated Swan Valley in six games
MJHL Semi-Finals: Portage defeated Dauphin in six games
MJHL Division Final: Portage defeated Selkirk in five games
Anavet Cup: Portage defeated La Ronge in seven games

Portage Terriers Playoff Stats:

-Portage has the 2nd best powerplay in the MJHL playoffs

-The Terriers have the 2nd best penalty kill during the MJHL post season

Here's a look at the Portage Terriers playoff roster-stats:

Portage Terriers:

Tyler Moore (9-11-20)
Brent Wold (9-7-16)
Shaquille Merasty (7-6-13)
Brendan Harms (4-9-13)
Kajon McKay (3-10-13)
Mike Gemmell (4-7-11)
Tanner Harms (6-4-10)
Andrew Wiebe (5-5-10)
Cody Kostecki (3-7-10)
Stephane Pattyn (3-6-9)
Kyle Turgeon (3-5-8)
Tanner Waldvogel (3-4-7)
Josh Dufresne (0-5-5)
Yvan Pattyn (1-3-4)
Riley Hay (1-1-2)
Kenton Valliant (0-2-2)
Brett Adnum (0-1-1)
Adam Robson (0-1-1)
Cody Nelson (0-1-1)
Tyler Harland (0-0-0)

Kirk Coswell (5-2 Record, 1 Shutout, 1.78 GAA)
Jason Kasdorf (7-3 Record, 1 Shutout, 2.16 GAA)

Let's take a look at the Portage Terriers: (Royal Bank Cup)

Games Played: 1
Wins: 1
Losses: 0
Streak: One game winning streak
Goals For: 5
Goals Against: 2

Here's a look at the Portage Terriers Royal Bank Cup roster-stats:

Brent Wold (1-1-2)
Tanner Waldvogel (1-1-2)
Shaquille Merasty (1-0-1)
Brendan Harms (1-0-1)
Kajon McKay (1-0-1)
Cody Kostecki (1-0-1)
Stephane Pattyn (0-1-1)
Kyle Turgeon (0-1-1)
Josh Dufresne (0-1-1)
Cory Moore (0-1-1)
Tyler Moore (0-0-0)
Mike Gemmell (0-0-0)
Tanner Harms (0-0-0)
Andrew Wiebe (0-0-0)
Yvan Pattyn (0-0-0)
Riley Hay (0-0-0)
Kenton Valliant (0-0-0)
Brett Adnum (0-0-0)
Adam Robson (0-0-0)
Cody Nelson (0-0-0)
Tyler Harland (0-0-0)

Kirk Coswell (0-0 Record)
Jason Kasdorf (1-0 Record)

PLAYERS TO WATCH

JASON KASDORF

good size … fills the net … communicates well with defencemen … demonstrates good focus … challenges shooters well … moves well laterally … very quick from post to post … good glove

TYLER MOORE

provides leadership … smart and effective two-way forward … very good skater .. good acceleration … above average shot … can play multiple roles, depending on situation … good offensive skills

BRENT WOLD

smooth on his skates … mobile … very good poise with the puck … smart and talented passer … good hockey sense … very good skater … reads the play well … very competitive … leaves it on the ice

NCAA COMMITMENTS

Jason Kasdorf – Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (2011-12)

Let's take a look at the Portage Terriers: (All-Time Record-Stats At The Royal Bank Cup)

Games Played: 10
Wins: 6
Losses: 4
Goals For: 38
Goals Against: 36

Last National Championship Appearance: 2005

Total National Championship Appearances: 2 (1973, 2005)

Total National Championships: 1 (1973)

Barons Assign Former Viper Lord To ECHL:

The Oklahoma City Barons of the American Hockey League have assigned Former Vernon Vipers forward, Andrew Lord to the ECHL Wheeling Nailers on April, 25th 2011. Lord who started the season with Wheeling has also played two games with the AHL Milwaukee Admirals this season. In 34 games with the Barons Lord collected (1-6-7). Lord played two seasons in Vernon (2002-04).

This is posted on the Nailers website:

Lord and Urquhart Return to Wheeling

April 25th,, 2011

WHEELING, WV – The Wheeling Nailers announced Monday that the team has received a pair of players from the American Hockey League. Forward Andrew Lord has been reassigned by the Oklahoma City Barons, while defenseman David Urquhart has been returned from the Hamilton Bulldogs.
Both players were placed on the Nailers playoff roster, and are eligible to play when Wheeling battles Greenville in game six of the Eastern Conference Semifinals Tuesday evening at the Bi-Lo Center.

Lord, 26, returns to Wheeling after appearing in 34 games with Oklahoma City registering a goal and seven assists, along with 89 penalty minutes. Lord was loaned to the Barons in late December, and earned an AHL contract with the club. The 6-3, 200-lb native of West Vancouver, BC played 26 games with the Nailers this season logging 19 points (7g, 19a). This is Lord’s third season in Wheeling where he served as team captain last season and the first part of this season before leaving for Oklahoma City. Dan Henningson assumed the role as Wheeling's captain in February.

Urquhart, 26, played in 23 regular season games with Hamilton this season posting five assists and eight penalty minutes along with a plus-1 rating. The native of Thorold, Ontario also appeared in 24 regular season games with Wheeling this year registering nine points (1g, 8a), 32 penalty minutes, with a plus-seven rating. The 6-foot, 190-lb defenseman has appeared in 130 career AHL games totaling 23 points (6g, 17a) and 78 penalty minutes

Royal Bank Cup: Camrose 3 Wellington 2

This is posted on the RBC Cup website:

Game Summary

Camrose Kodiaks 3 - Wellington Dukes 2

FLETTE LEADS KODIAKS TO FIRST WIN

CAMROSE, Alta. – Dalyn Flette was the story, making 42 saves, as the Camrose Kodiaks earned their first win of the 2011 RBC Cup with a 3-2 victory over the Wellington Dukes on Sunday night in front of a loud and proud Camrose crowd at the Edgeworth Centre.

The Kodiaks’ win was their second all time over Wellington at the RBC Cup – Camrose beat the Dukes 7-1 at the 2003 tournament in Charlottetown, P.E.I., en route to an appearance in the championship game.

Cole Wilson, Rylan Wiest and Luke Challier all scored second-period goals for the Kodiaks (1-1), but it was Flette who stole the show; the Camrose netminder made 16 saves in the first period alone, when the hosts were outshot 17-6 but trailed only 1-0 after 20 minutes.

Joe Zarbo and Steve Evans scored power play goals for the Dukes (0-1), who outshot the Kodiaks 44-27. Zarbo, Evans and Sean Rudy all had two points in the loss.

The Kodiaks will enjoy their first off-day of the tournament Monday to get ready for Tuesday’s game against Portage (7:30 p.m. MT), while the Dukes get right back to action against Pembroke on Monday night (7:30 p.m. MT).

For more on tonight's game check out the boxscore,

http://www.hockeycanada.ca/index.php/ci_id/75138/la_id/1/game_id/157720/season_id/157706/ss_id/73728/

Royal Bank Cup: Portage 5 Pembroke 2

This is posted on the RBC Cup website:

Game Summary

Pembroke Lumber Kings 2 - Portage Terriers 5

TERRIERS SPREAD OUT OFFENCE IN WIN OVER LUMBER KINGS

CAMROSE, Alta. – Brent Wold scored once and added an assist to lead a balanced offence as the PortageTerriers opened their 2011 RBC Cup with a 5-2 win over the Pembroke Lumber Kings on Sunday afternoon at theEdgeworth Centre.

Five players scored goals and 10 had at least one point for the Terriers, who held the Lumber Kings offthe scoresheet at five-on-five and killed six of eight Pembroke power plays.

Wold, Cody Kostecki, Brendan Harms, Kajon McKay and Shaquille Merasty scored the goals for Portage (1-0),which won its first meeting with Pembroke since beating the Lumber Kings in five games to win the 1973national championship.

Jonathan Milley and Matthew Zay both recorded power play goals for Pembroke (0-1), which outshot theTerriers 31-22 but could not beat Portage netminder Jason Kasdorf, who made 29 saves in Player of the Gameperformance.

The Terriers will have a chance at a 2-0 start when they face the two-time defending champions from Vernonon Monday afternoon (3:30 p.m. MT), while the Lumber Kings meet Wellington in Monday’s late game (7:30 p.m.MT).

For more on tonight's game check out the boxscore,

http://www.hockeycanada.ca/index.php/ci_id/75138/la_id/1/game_id/157717/season_id/157706/ss_id/73728/

Vipers Bare Fangs In Opening Victory Over Kodiaks:

This is in todays Edmonton Journal Newspaper:

Vipers bare fangs in opening victory over Kodiaks

Defending RBC Cup champs come out firing top start national championship

By Mario Annicchiarico, edmontonjournal.com

May 1, 2011

CAMROSE — For the most part, it looked as if Boris Rybalka had his Camrose Kodiaks watching the wrong video in preparation for the RBC Cup that began Saturday night at EnCana Arena at the Edgeworth Centre in Camrose.

Having sat for 18 days, Rybalka and his troops had plenty of time to scout any and all of the opposition, but the Kodiaks found themselves down 2-0 in the first 6:13 and outshot 8-1 in the opening 12 minutes against the two-time RBC Cup-champion Vernon Vipers.

The Kodiaks never fully recovered, dropping a 4-2 decision to the tournament favourites to launch the nine-day Canadian junior A championship before roughly 1,700 fans.

The Vipers struck quickly as Brett Corkey got Vernon on the board at 4:12 of the first after a couple of muggings in front of Camrose netminder Dalyn Flette’s net and a delayed penalty about to be called.

Just 2:01 later Michael Zalewski’s shot deflected in off a Camrose defenceman as the Vipers made it 2-0 on a power play.

The ice was tilted in Vernon’s favour for most of the opening frame before Kenny Bradley recorded the Kodiaks’ second shot 12:10 in.

Camrose cut the lead to 2-1 when Mario Boilard deflected a point shot by Vipers goaltender Kirby Halcrow on a Kodiaks’ power play at 16:30. Vernon outshot Camrose 9-6 in the opening 20 minutes.

After a scoreless second, Zalewski added his second of the night at 5:14 of the third period as he fought off defenceman Jonathan Lashyn and rifled a high snapshot glove side on Flette.

Sam Jardine cut the lead to 3-2 on a Camrose man advantage midway through the third after the Kodiaks’ power play failed miserably in the second, garnering just two shots over three straight opportunities. The second period also ended with Flette foiling Vernon’s David Robinson on a breakaway just before the buzzer sounded.

John Kinsley clinched it with a Vernon power-play effort at 12:19 of the third as Darren Nowick collected his third assist of the night.

The Vipers are looking for a record third-straight national crown after recently disposing of the No. 1-ranked Spruce Grove Saints in a seven-game series in the Doyle Cup. Vernon has now travelled across the Rockies for a third time in less than a week, returning home last Sunday only to venture back to central Alberta.

The champs had plenty of pep in their game, outshooting the well-rested Kodiaks 31-24 overall.

Vipers Beat Host Camrose At RBC:

This is posted on the Vipers website:

Vipers beat host Camrose at RBC

by Don Klepp | Added 2011-05-01

The Vernon Vipers opened their defence of their national Jr. “A” title with a 4-2 win over the host Camrose Kodiaks on Saturday.

Playing perhaps his best game as a Viper, Darren Nowick paced his team with a goal and two assists, while his linemates, John Knisley and Mike Zalewski, also scored.

In front of a capacity crowd, the Vipers dominated a rusty Kodiak crew, who had not played since April 8 when they were eliminated by Spruce Grove in the fifth game of the AJHL finals. That dominance paid off with two early goals.

Defenceman Brett Corkey got the ball rolling with a shot from the top of the left faceoff circle at 4::12. The Viper rookie of the year capitalized on good Viper pressure with a low wrist shot that eluded Dalyn Flette’s catcher.

Two minutes later, with Camrose about to be penalized, Darren Nowick fired a shot through traffic to beat Flette on the stick side.

After the 14-minute mark, the Kodiaks started to find their legs and to win some puck battles. Their power play goal made the score 2-1 before the period was out.

Using their trademark dump and chase, the Kodiaks flipped the puck in for Kirby Halcrow to retrieve. He attempted to clear the zone, but Ben Gallacher intercepted the puck and shot toward net. The puck hit Mario Boilard and glanced over Halcrow’s left shoulder at 16:30.

In the second period, the Vipers took three penalties but limited the Kodiaks to just one power play scoring chance.

Camrose finally did earn a power play goal at 9:29 of the third period, courtesy of defenceman Sam Jardine, whose flip shot bounced off a Viper defender and then off Halcrow’s left arm on its way into the net.

Sandwiched around the Jardine goal were two Viper tallies, both by the Nowick line. At 5:12, Nowick lunged to win a puck race on the right wing at centre ice. He then freed Mike Zalewski with a 70-foot diagonal pass. Zalewski broke in off the left wing and fired a big-league wrist shot that beat Flette high to the glove side at 5:14.

The Vipers scored their second power play marker of the game at 12:19. Nowick’s shot beat Flette, but hit the base of Flette’s left post. From the other side, John Knisley buried the rebound.

Neither team played a complete game in the opening contest of the 2011 Royal Bank Cup. Viper coach Mark Ferner “was satisfied with the result, but not with the process.” The bench boss said “we had too many turnovers in our zone, too many defensive zone mistakes, but we’ll shore those up before we meet Portage on Monday.”

Family Ties Push Captain:

This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:

Family ties push captain

By Kevin Mitchell - Vernon Morning Star

Published: May 01, 2011

David Robinson was two years old when his father, Jack, a popular chartered accountant in town, died of cancer.

Hardly a fair start in life, but the positive personality traits he inherited from his father and a strong family network have combined to make David the class act he is today as captain of the Vernon Vipers.

Robinson, 21, has never held any pity parties, but instead made the best of his upbringing and succeeded as an athlete and a human being during the process.

He will, once the Royal Bank Cup tournament in Camrose, Alta. ends next Sunday, sit down with “Bill and Kim” and discuss his future in hockey and education.

Kim is his hockey-crazed mom. Bill Richardson is his hockey-crazed step-dad. Together, they have been David’s rock since he left Vernon at 17 to play major junior for the Chilliwack Bruins.

“Growing up, my mom was a single mom and I owe everything to her really. She had a great support staff in my (older) brother, Chris, and then I could look at guys like (uncle) Jack Gilroy, who kind of stepped in, and were father figures, and eventually Bill. You couldn’t ask for a better step-dad. He’s the nicest guy in the world.

“For Bill and Kim, my junior career’s been kind of a roller-coaster ride, but they kind of stood by me, stayed positive and stayed in my corner so I owe a big thank you to them.”

Robinson is also thankful he comes from strong family genes. His late grandfather, Vern Dye, helped found the local junior A franchise and the BCJHL. His late uncle, Wayne, was this city’s athlete of the last century after being drafted in pro baseball and hockey.

“There’s a pretty rich history in my family. Looking up at the wall in the dressing room, you see Vern’s name, you see Wayne’s name. I wish I would have got to see Wayne play, but I’ve heard a lot of great stories, and definitely I owe a lot to my grampa. I was talking about myself being an honest guy; he was probably the most honest guy I’ve known so I learned a lot from him. It’s nice having that history behind me.”

Some hockey people thought Robinson made a mistake when he left the Bruins just before Christmas in the 2009-10 season to join the Vipers. He sees thing differently after learning how to compete hard with and against some of the world’s elite players in the Western League.

“Team-wise, I knew they had a good team here and I wanted to win a national championship. I wanted to get that spark back in my game I lost. I think I did that, and I’ve been having a lot of fun. And being one of the go-to-guys and being the guy that all the younger guys look up to has been pretty rewarding for me.”

Robinson has pretty much the same leadership qualities as the last six Vernon captains of championship teams: Bruce Ramsay, Terry Klapstein, Jeff Cheeseman, Lenny Rampone, Chris Crowell and Kevin Kraus.

“I talk in the dressing room, but I go out there and try and lead by example and just work my bag off, whether it’s in practice or in games, and hopefully the young guys have learned that from me, that I’ll go out there and give an honest effort out there every night. When I need to say something, I’ll definitely say it.”

He listened and watched closely the class acts in Chilliwack, where in his second season, he was a rotating captain.

“My first year, I had Nick Holden who was playing in Syracuse (Springfield Falcons of the AHL and five games with Columbus Blue Jackets this year). He was our captain and I learned a lot from him. Guys like Oscar Moller and Mark Santorelli as well. They’re professionals now so you learned a lot from them. They came to the rink every game and they acted like professionals and they were playing junior.

“There’s guys like Jesse Craige and Matt Meropoulis (second year) who were more like my style. They were captains when I was captain and we kind of just fed off one another. We didn’t have a great year but it was still a good experience.”

He says the Viper newbies are a pretty laid-back group which may explain why they are in another RBC tournament when nobody outside their dressing room really expected them to be there.

“Looking back, you couldn’t tell. What’d we lose, 16 guys last year? You can’t give enough credit to the guys who have come in and done their job. Looking down the road, this team has a pretty bright future.”

Net detective Kirby Halcrow, who said he had a perma-grin when told he was being traded here in early December, likes Robinson’s moxy.

“Dave, he’s a very good guy. He’s very intense during the on-ice sessions and then off the ice, he kinds of likes to joke around a lot so it’s really good both ways.”

Halcrow, a money goalie for sure, said he quickly saw the Vipers’ five-star hotel template put in play.

“You get treated very well by everyone in the town and the coaching staff’s really good to you,” said the Alberta product. “If you’re having a tough time, they’ll take you aside and talk to you. They’ll talk things through and they’ll always be there to help you no matter what and they’re not gonna get down on your neck for anything.

“They’ll be the helping hand first which is really good. I think that’s why a lot of players wanna come here. They’ve got a great coaching staff and a great staff in all.”

Richardson Ready For Rematch With Former Team:

This is in todays Morning Star Newspaper:

Richardson ready for rematch with former team

Published: May 01, 2011

The Vernon Vipers will go up against a familiar face when they meet the Wellington Dukes at the Royal Bank Cup Wednesday in Camrose.

Former Viper defenceman Elliott Richardson, who was traded in early December to the Quesnel Millionaires as part of the deal that brought netminder Kirby Halcrow to Vernon, now plays with the Ontario Junior Hockey League champion Dukes.

Richardson, a 19-year-old Hanmer, Ont. native, posted 11 points in the final 15 games of the season with Wellington, and added 10 points in 25 playoff games.

“I fit in pretty well here. It worked out pretty well and it feels like playing at home in Ontario. Like I’m on home soil,” said Richardson, who is getting plenty of ice time and a regular shift on the powerplay.

“We’re pretty deep; we have four lines that all offer something different. We’re solid on defence and our goalie (Jordan Ruby), he gives us a chance to win every night.”

Ruby, a Tavistock, Ont. product, backstopped Canada East to silver at the World Junior A Challenge last November in Penticton.

Leading the Dukes offensively is Sean Rudy, a 6-foot-3, 190-pound play-making centre who led the team with 22 goals and 51 assists in the regular season. He uses his size as well, delivering big body checks and he is hard to knock off the puck.

The Dukes won the Dudley Hewitt Cup to advance to the RBC Cup. They faced champions from the Northern Ontario Junior Hockey League (Soo Eagles), Superior International Junior Hockey League (Wisconsin Wilderness) and tournament host Huntsville Otters in a round-robin tourney.

In the Dudley Hewitt final, Darcy Greenaway broke open a 3-3 tie early in the third period as Wellington grounded the Otters 5-3 to advance to nationals for the first time since 2002-03.

Richardson said the Dukes endured a marathon semifinal to reach the championship, battling through four overtime periods (nearly 140 minutes of extra play) before brushing back the Eagles 2-1.

“It was a battle. We played five games in five days. More if you include the overtime,” said Richardson.

Richardson is thrilled to be competing against the Vipers.

“It was kind of in the back of my mind the whole time, being traded from a team that is going to the RBC. It’ll be pretty exciting to play my old team,” he said.

In the Eastern regional playdowns, the Pembroke Lumber Kings of Ontario advanced to the RBC for the first time since 2007 after doubling the Longueuil Collège Français of Quebec 6-3 in the eastern Fred Page Cup.

The Kings’ Jonathan Milley had two goals and two assists and Matthew Peca chipped in with a goal and two helpers.

Peca (no relation to former NHLer Mike Peca) also skated for Canada East at the World Junior A Challenge. He had 26 goals and 26 assists this season.

The Lumber Kings’ main scoring threat is Tyler Tosunian, a smooth-skating California product who finished second in the league with 31-81-117.

In Western qualifying action, the Portage Terriers of Manitoba got a 22-save showing from Jason Kasdorf to brush back Saskatchewan’s La Ronge Ice Wolves 4-0 in Game 7 of the Anavet Cup.

1993-born rookie Brent Wold led the Terriers with a 68-point regular season, including 46 assists. Extremely competitive, he also has superior passing skills.

Where Wold is the set-up man, fellow Portage rookie Brendan Harms is a finisher, scoring a team-high 28 goals and finishing ninth in the MJHL with 63 points.

The Terriers are returning to the RBC Cup for the first time since 2005.

Tournament host Camrose Kodiaks are led by 20-year-old Luke Challier, who had a team-high 23 goals and 164 penalty minutes. The Surrey native played parts of two seasons with the Penticton Vees and Burnaby Express before finding a home in Camrose.

Another important piece of the Kodiak puzzle is Jordan Hale, a 6-foot-4, 217 pounder, who played with the WHL Brandon Wheat Kings.

SNAKE BITES: Viper grad Connor Jones was named Rookie of the Year at the NCAA Division 1 Quinnipiac Bobcats annual awards banquet. Jones, who plays alongside twin brother Kellen, collected nine goals and 15 assists to lead all Bobcat freshmen and finish second in team scoring. Scott Zurevinski, another former Viper and current Quinnipiac captain, earned the award in 2009. It is the fifth time in the last seven years that a BCHL grad has been named the team’s top rookie.

Royal Bank Cup: Vernon 4 Camrose 2

I was at tonight's Royal Bank Cup after Vernon defeated Camrose 4-2 at the Edgeworth Centre.

Starting Goaltenders:

Vernon: Kirby Halcrow
Camrose: Dalyn Flette

The game was delayed due to opening night ceremonies with introductions of all five teams competing at the RBC Cup as well as the 2001 RBC Cup Champion Camrose Kodiaks were introduced as it was ten years ago the Kodiaks won the RBC Cup.

1st Period: The Vipers got off to a strong start and carried the better of the play early and often. Trevor Fitzgerald just three minutes into the opening period had a great chance in front, getting by one Kodiak before getting stripped of the puck in front by Cole Wilson. Vernon continued the strong forecheck down low and a minute later David Robinson went back to the point setting up Brett Corkey's hard shot that beat Dalyn Flette top shelf high over the glove at 4:12 giving Vernon a 1-0 lead. Robinson and Bryce Kakoske collected the assists. Under a minute later the Vipers would get the games first powerplay of the night. Moving the puck well Darren Nowick from down low along the goal line through the puck towards the goal as the puck went in off a Camrose players skate and past Flette at 6:13 giving Vernon a early 2-0 lead. Mike Zalewski and Adam Thompson picked up the helpers. The Vipers were outshooting the Kodiaks 6-1 at this point. The Vipers looked very strong down low and on the forecheck as Vernon controlled most of the play in the first half of the 1st period. It took Camrose almost twelve minutes to record their second shot on goal. The Kodiaks would then get their first man advantage of the night just a few minutes later. Camrose really moved the puck around well but the Vipers defence and strong penalty kill did a great job at keeping the Kodiaks to the outside, not giving up any real good scoring chances. Just before the penalty was over Kirby Halcrow tried clearing the zone but his long clearing attempt was picked up at the blueline before Ben Gallacher's point shot was tipped in front by Mario Boilard who beat Halcrow at 16:30 getting the Kodiaks on the score sheet. Gallacher and Rylan Wiest picked up the assists. Vernon would get a late powerplay but unable to capitalize before the buzzer. The Vipers were the better of the two teams carrying the better of the play. Camrose with a late goal got back into the game but didnt generate any real offensive chances. The Vipers with a 2-1 lead after 20 minutes of play. Vernon outshot Camrose 9-6.

2nd Period: The Vipers started the middle frame on the man advantage wich was carried over from the 1st. Vernon struggled to get anything going on the powerplay to start the 2nd before Adam Thompson's blast just under a minute into the period went off the back glass before coming out front hitting Dalyn Flette who was forced to make a tough save. The Kodiaks would kill off the minor. Not a whole lot of scoring chances in the middle frame before the Kodiaks had a great chance with traffic in front but Kirby Halcrow made a big save with two Kodiaks on top of him. Shortly after the Vipers with a great chance, Marcus Basara's shot from the circle was tipped in front by Dylan Walchuk who was stopped by Flette. Camrose would then get the first of three straight powerplay's. Vipers captain, David Robinson with two huge shot blocks battled hard all night. Darren Nowick with alot of hustle and two extra efforts to clear the zone all helped as the Vipers killed off the penalty. Two minutes the Kodiaks would get their second powerplay and get a real good chance with traffic in front but once again Halcrow come up with a big save as Vernon killed off the minor. The Vipers who would take another penalty just under a minute later Camrose was unable to capitalize after three huge penalty kills by the Vipers who looked very good on the penalty kill. Camrose had a few shifts where they really laid the body on Vernon. The puck was bouncing alot in the second period as both teams had the puck hop or bounce over their sticks. Just before the buzzer David Robinson with a breakaway couldnt beat Dalyn Flette who stayed with the Viper captain, making a big save keeping it a one goal game. The Vipers with a 2-1 lead after 40 minutes of play. Vernon outshot Camrose 9-7.

3rd Period: The Vipers would get an early powerplay but it was the Kodiaks who would get a great chance shorthanded with Rylan Wiest and Tanner Dion on the two on one, but Adam Thompson stayed with Wiest breaking up the odd man rush. The Vipers were unable to capitalize after a big penalty kill by Camrose. Just a minute after the powerplay Darren Nowick fed Mike Zalewski who went in on a parcial breakaway and then ripped a wicked shot top shelf just under the crossbar beating Dalyn Flette at 5:14 giving Vernon a 3-1 lead. Nowick and John Knisley with the helpers. Camrose come back with a strong shift off the faceoff getting some good presure deep in the Vipers zone. Camrose would then get a powerplay and get two real quailty chances. Kenny Bradley had Kirby Halcrow beat at the side of the net but somehow missed the open cage. Nolan Kaiser's point shot went through taffic in front, beating Kirby Halcrow but rang off the crossbar. Before the penalty expired Sam Jardine's shot went up and over Halcrow at the side of the net at 9:29 making this a one goal game. Tyler Jewitt & John Lidgett collected the assists. Just two minutes later Jesse Altheim was given two minutes for checking from behind and given a ten minute misconduct. With the Vipers on the powerplay Darren Nowick beat Flette from the slot but hit the post as the puck went through the crease along the goal line before John Knisley scooped up the rebound and then beat Flette at 12:19 giving Vernon a 4-2 lead. Darren Nowick and Steve Weinstein picked up the assists. Off the draw the Vipers would get the play back in deep allowing Bryce Kakoske with a great chance from the circle but Dalyn Flette stood tall and made a big save. Just under a minute later the Vipers would get another shot on the man advantage but it wouldnt last long as the Vipers would take a penalty allowing both teams some four on four action. Camrose come very close to making this a one goal game after Nolan Kaiser's point shot beat Halcrow but graized the top of the crossbar. The Kodiaks would get the play in deep and try to get some chances late in the period but the Vipers defence did a great job at pinning the Kodiaks along the wall, eating several minutes off the clock. Kenny Bradley with a geat chance from the slot with a minute and a half left was stopped by Kirby Halcrow who made a big save in close. Boris Rybalka would call a late timeout in the final minute before getting Flette to the bench for the extra attacker. With some pressure down low the Kodiaks couldnt generate much towards the goal as the Vipers kept Camrose to the outside before clearing the zone in the final seconds as the buzzer sounded. Vernon opens the RBC Cup at 1-0 while Camrose falls to 0-1. A very close period as both teams had good chances. Vernon outshot Camrose 13-11.

Top Players: (Vernon)

Brett Corkey played a very solid game on the Vipers backend tonight.

Adam Thompson (1 assist) Also played very well for Vernon. I thought Adam played very well at both ends of the rink. Made a real solid defensive play early in the 3rd to break up a Kodiaks two on one.

Ryan Renz was another Vipers d-man that I thought played well.

David Robinson (1 assist) The Vipers captain battled and played hard most of the night. Robinson come up with two big blocked shots on the penalty kill as well as battling hard in front of the Kodiaks net with Ben Gallacher. Both players exchanged words and shots back and forth through out tonights game.

Mike Zalewski (1 goal and 1 assist) Was very strong up front for the Vipers. Zalewski scored a real night goal early in the 3rd to give Vernon a two goal lead.

Darren Nowick (1 goal and 1 assist) Darren Nowick was the Vipers best player tonight. Nowick showed alot of hustle and second efforts battling hard all night. Was very strong down low and very hard to knock off the puck. Nowick was very strong on the penalty kill.

Kirby Halcrow (21 saves) I thought Halcrow played well even though he didnt face a whole lot of action tonight. Halcrow made a few key saves at times through out the game.

Top Players: (Camrose)

Nolan Kaiser played a solid game on the Kodiaks blueline. Hit the crossbar twice, was very steady on the backend.

Kenny Bradley stood out for me having a few chances. Was always involved in the play and in and around the net.

Rylan Wiest (1 assist) Played fairly well up front for the Kodiaks.

Cole Wilson a speedy player looked very good for Camrose.

Game Thoughts: (Vernon)

Well the Vipers open up the Royal Bank Cup with a 4-2 victory and start the tournament at 1-0. I thought Vernon looked very strong early to start the game and were the better team. The Vipers looked very good and gave Camrose all kinds of trouble on the forecheck.  Getting off to a quick 2-0 lead and taking the crowd out of the game was key.  Making Camrose have to fight and battle back was just what the Vipers wanted. I also liked Vernon's penalty kill, yes they gave up two powerplay goals but come up with some huge blocked shots as well as didnt give up a whole lot of scoring opportunities on the penalty kill. The Vipers defence also played very well, kept the Kodiaks to the outside most of the night.  Vipers get off to a good start and play very well on opening night.  Vernon with a solid road win did a great job at shutting down the Kodiaks offence.  Not a very physical team.  Nice to see about thirty or so Viper fans in attendance.  A very nice rink, with not really a bad seat in the house.  Got to see Mayson Raymonds retired #9 jersey that was retired back in September.  The Kodiaks have two jersey's retired as well as a wall of fame wall, with a pretty good list of former players that have been drafted or play in the NHL.   

Game Thoughts: (Camrose)

For a team that hasnt played in a few weeks I thought got off to a slow start but seemed to get better as the game went on. The Kodiaks fall to 0-1 on opening night on wich I was very surprised to see the arena not soldout. Camrose had all kinds of trouble with the Vipers speed and forecheck but looked fairly good on the penalty kill. The Kodiaks didnt generate alot of scoring chances in the first two periods but come up with their best efforts in the 3rd and final period.  For hosting the RBC Cup, pretty dissapointing not to see a sellout.  I was expecting it to be pretty loud, but it wasnt very loud at all.  Going into these RBC Cups you dont really know a whole lot about the other teams.  After watching tonight's game, I thought the Vipers were the better team.  A bounce or break in the 3rd and it could have been a different game.  Camrose with two crossbars and a few good chances in a one goal game, could have made things interesting.

Scratches:

Vernon:

Max Mowat
Zach McPhee
Patrick McGillis

Camrose:

Luke Challier
Connor Milligan

Players Of The Game:

Vernon: Darren Nowick (1 goal & 1 assist)

Camrose: Clayton Jardine

For more on tonight's game check out the boxscore,

http://www.hockeycanada.ca/index.php/ci_id/75138/la_id/1/game_id/157711/season_id/157706/ss_id/73728/