Saturday, June 11, 2011
2014 RBC Cup Coming To Vernon?
Friday, June 10, 2011
Former Viper Segal Leaves Vancouver Giants For McGill University:
This is posted on the Giants website:
Mark Segal To Attend McGill University
Mark Segal is forgoing his final year of junior hockey to attend McGill University in Montreal, Quebec. The Vancouver native spent the last two seasons with the Giants as their number one goalie, posting a regular season record of 45-30-2-4 between the pipes. He was 10-9-1 in the playoffs.
"The opportunity to go to school and continue my hockey career at the university I had always targeted was too good an opportunity to pass up," said Segal. "Because of the uncertainty that goes along with being a 20 year old in the WHL I was apprehensive about returning, so from my point of view the timing was perfect."
Thanks to the WHL's scholarship program (For every year played in the WHL a player receives one year tuition and books at the university/college of their choice), Segal will have two years of tuition and books paid for. "Having my first two years of schooling taken care of is unbelievable. McGill is one of this country's elite institutions and I am just fortunate to be able to take advantage of the scholarship program."
From a hockey perspective, the Redmen are coming off an impressive season in which they lost in the CIS National Final. In fact they have made it to the CIS Championship tournament the last four years running and boast alumni such as Mike Babcock (Detroit Red Wings Head Coach), Guy Boucher (Tampa Bay Lightning Head Coach), and Mathieu Darche (Montreal Canadiens Forward). "This is a program that is competing for a national championship every single year," said Segal. "The dedication and commitment to winning is very similar to what I have come to expect with the Giants."
A standout student in the classroom, Segal has worked hard to be accepted to McGill University. Though he has never been to Montreal, he has a pretty good idea of what to expect considering both of his older sisters received undergraduate degrees from the university. "McGill has a strong reputation as an academic school. I plan on enrolling in the sciences program and perhaps one day follow in the footsteps of my parents who are both doctors."
As for his time with the Vancouver Giants, Segal will always have fond memories. "I was fortuante to get to play major junior hockey in my hometown for what I believe is the best franchise in the WHL. The quality of the entire organization is first class. When I told Scott Bonner and Don Hay about my decision they wished me luck and told me if I ever need anything to give them call."
The Vancouver Giants would like to thank Mark for all his great work over the last two years, not only between the pipes, but in the community with all the programs he was involved with. Best of luck at McGill Mark!
Mark Segal - WHL Career Statistics 2009-2011
Regular Season
91 Games Played 45-30-2-4 2.91 GAA .899 SV% 10 Shutouts
Playoffs
20 Games Played 10-9-1 3.52 GAA .890 SV%
Thursday, June 9, 2011
BCHL AGM Meetings Update:
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
BCHL AGM
This past weekend the BCHL had their annual general meeting. The news coming out of it included Express President and GM Darcy Rota recieving an award and stepping down from his post of chairman of the board for the BCHL. Plus the details of how the schedule will be constructed this season. See the full press release below.
The British Columbia Hockey League held its Annual General Meeting June 2 to 4 in Richmond and met with governors, coaches and team marketers to wrap up the 2010-11 season and set out plans for 2011-12. The coming season will be the league’s 50th anniversary and as it approaches, several celebratory events will be announced.
An important task completed at the AGM was determining the number of home and away games for in-conference play. The half-interlock schedule will have each team play every other team but visit only four rinks in the opposing conference.
Each club will play three of their conference opponents four times at home and four times on the road. Against the remaining four conference opponents, it will be four at home and three on the road.
“We will have the 2011-12 schedule completed by the first week of July,” said BCHL executive director Dave Sales. “Within conference, this is going to be the most balanced schedule we’ve ever seen.”
Another change is that the schedule will start Sept. 23, two weeks later than last year. As such, it has been mandated that each club’s main training camp will begin no sooner than Aug. 22.
With respect to the board of governors, executive committee chairman Darcy Rota of the Coquitlam Express and Vernon Vipers owner Duncan Wray were named co-recipients of the league’s Executive of the Year award. Rota also took the opportunity to announce he is stepping down as chairman and Wray was nominated to take his place and has accepted.
“Both Darcy and Duncan have been exemplary partners in our league and have elevated the BCHL’s status through their dedication,” said league commissioner John Grisdale. “With Duncan moving into the chairman’s role, I know we will not miss a beat moving forward.”
Also, as Wray was already on the executive committee, Westside Warriors owner Mark Cheyne has joined the group to keep it at five members. Surrey’s Ronnie Paterson will continue as co-chair and Trail’s Tom Gawryletz and Alberni Valley’s Andy Oakes stay on board as well.
“I have a great deal of respect for what Darcy did and I understand his reason for moving on,” said Wray, who served a six-year term as chairman prior to Rota. “There are still some things I’d like to accomplish and hopefully I can lead the charge with the new board.”
Personally I like how it looks that the schedule will be put together this season. I would still prefer that the league have a full interlocking schedule and have every team visit every single rink. Back in the 08-09 season when the league most recently had only a half interlocking schedule, we saw the Express play a total of 36 of their 60 games vs. three teams the Powell River Kings, Surrey Eagles and Langley Chiefs. And that was way too many games against just a small handful of teams. This format gives the league a little more balance when it comes to all the opponents in the conference at least.
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Dynamic Dylan Becomes A Complete Player:
Dynamic dylan becomes a complete player
by Don Klepp | Added 2011-05-30
He’s always had the moves, spinning away from defenders in the corner or weaving his way through traffic. Now Dylan Walchuk has a full arsenal of hockey skills as he progresses in his career.
The son of a teacher and a big game guide, Dylan left his northern home in McBride to play Jr. “B” in Nelson two years ago. There he was an instant hit, scoring 29 goals and 36 assists in 49 games before leading the Leafs in playoff scoring with 26 points in 16 games.
He followed that success with 47 points as a Viper rookie last year. This year, he led the Vipers in regular season scoring with 56 points in 55 games. He added 17 goals and 8 assists during the Vipers’ 29-game playoff run.
His success made him a marked man as the Powell River Kings and Spruce Grove Saints tried everything in their power to knock him off his game. Returning from Spruce Grove, he had the scars to demonstrate how the Saints worked him over. Still, he sparkled, with four goals and two assists in the Doyle Cup series.
When asked about the source of his joyful, determined play this year, he says “It just comes from playing on this team. It’s a real family atmosphere, like a brotherly love. There’s such a good feeling in the dressing room that you want to play for the guys beside you.”
His talent and drive was acknowledged at the RBC Cup this year when he was selected to the tournament all star team. The selection committee was impressed by his energy, his stick handling, his scoring ability, and his defensive play.
He credits the defensive side of his game to Mark Ferner and Jason Williamson. “At Nelson, the defensive side wasn’t stressed as much as it is here. I thank Ferns and Willy for improving my defensive zone play. That part of the game wins championships and if I’m going to make it in hockey I’ll have to be sound defensively.”
At times this year his size, speed, and elusiveness have been compared to Connor and Kellen Jones, but he downplays that comparison. “Nobody can walk in their shoes,” he says. “They’re just special players, but I try to be a little like them in terms of protecting the puck and anticipating the play. With them in college, I knew that I would have to contribute more this year so I worked really hard last summer, trying to get better and stronger in order to assume a bigger role with the team.”
He certainly did fill Connor’s shoes on one memorable occasion this year. The March 25 game in Salmon Arm gave the Vipers a chance to eliminate the Silverbacks from the playoffs. Two years previously, also in Salmon Arm, Connor Jones keyed a 3-1 Viper series clincher with a hat trick. Recalling that night, Steve Weinstein in the pre-game dressing room asked “Who wants to be Connor tonight?”
When no one else volunteered, Dylan said, “OK, I’ll be Connor.” He then went out and scored four goals on four shots to lead the Vipers to a 5-4 win.
Goals aside, one of Dylan’s real accomplishments this year has been his record in the faceoff circle. In the Spruce Grove series, for example, he won over 66 percent of his draws. He says that “Experience is important; you learn techniques to go up against certain types of players. Our centres motivate each other. At practice, Fitzy, Murph, Nowick and I have competitions, and we really go at it. I’ve seen how low and strong Murph is in the circle and I’ve tried to feed off that.”
The Pride of McBride – a moniker bestowed on Dylan by Todd Miller – will take his game to Northern Michigan University next year, where his coach will be Walt Kyle, who once coached Mark Ferner. Dylan says that “They expect me to contribute right away, to put up points.”
Away from the rink, Dylan will study sports science.
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Former Vernon Laker Drake Recalls His Flight With Jets:
This was in Fridays Trail Daily Newspaper:
NHL - Drake recalls his flight with Jets
By Jim Bailey - Trail Daily Times
Published: June 03, 2011
Dallas Drake knows what it’s like to play hockey in Winnipeg but he is still happy to see the city get another chance to play in the National Hockey League.
The Rossland native played for the Jets in 1993 and 1994 in what would be the last two seasons for the troubled franchise before they were moved to the desert. Yet ironically, like a phoenix, the Jets are set to rise again.
“I think it’s great, I mean it’s obviously huge for Winnipeg getting the team back,” said Drake from his home in Michigan.
“They were in a tough situation, 15-16 years ago where they just didn’t have a proper building to support an NHL team, obviously they got a much better building there now and the fan base I don’t think will ever be a problem.”
The Manitoba city will be the smallest market in the league with one of the smallest arenas, but Winnipeg doesn’t have the same competition for market share as Atlanta or other large centres.
“I don’t know if they plan on adding anymore luxury boxes to the rink or more seating, I mean it’s the smallest seating rink in the league so they’re going to have their challenges and unfortunately sometimes it’ll be tough to get players to go there, especially free agents.”
Drake was traded to the Jets after a great rookie season in Detroit, but as a single 24-year-old in the windy city he has no regrets about his time in Winnipeg.
“I had a great time,” said Drake. “I was only there for two years, was unmarried at the time with no kids, so it was relatively easy for myself. We had a young team and did a lot of things together as guys, because we were all single . . . it was fun for a lot of us at that time.”
Drake is confident Winnipeg will meet the 13,000 season-ticket quota set by the NHL in order to finalize the move by June 21.
“I find it hard to believe they won’t find a way to get that done, I think that’s just a technicality and it’s got to be approved by the board of governors which I’m sure it will.”
Drake’s 18-year NHL career came full circle in 2008, retiring after a Stanley Cup victory with the Detroit Red Wings , the team that drafted him in 1989.
Known for his character as much as his commitment and hard work, Drake continues to give back to his community, raising four kids, coaching and is director of the Grand Traverse Hockey Association.
Monday, June 6, 2011
Former Vipers Connor & Kellen Jones Join Orioles For First PIL Season:
Former Vernon Vipers forwards, Connor and Kellen Jones are back in Trail for the summer playing for the Trail AM Ford Orioles of the Pacific International Baseball League (PIL). This is the Orioles first year in the PIL. The Jones Twins and the Orioles are 1-4 so far this young season & will be playing in Vernon June 11th & 12th. Kellen Jones pitched superbly, taking a no-hitter into the 5th but couldn’t get any run support in a 5-0 loss to Kamlopps in the Orioles second game of the season. Last year the Jones Twins played for the Trail Jays of the North Idaho American Legion Baseball league. Connor & Kellen Jones both played four seasons in Vernon (2006-2010).
This is an article from the Trail Daily Newspaper from last weekend on the Orioles opening weekend vs Kamloops.
New league, new foes for O’s
By Staff Writer - Trail Daily Times
Published: May 26, 2011
The AM Ford Orioles ventured tentatively onto new terrain last weekend as they made their debut in the Pacific International League (PIL).
Considered by many to be the premier inter-collegiate league in the Northwest, the Orioles will face seven teams from B.C. and three from the Seattle area.
To open the season, the Orioles took on a tough Kamloops Sun Dogs nine, Saturday, losing both ends of a doubleheader 5-3 and 5-0.
The first game went back and forth until a two run home run by the Dogs in the top of the 5th put them on top to stay. Connor Jones and Justion Kitcher pitched well and kept the O’s in the game with Josh Mace leading the offence with two hits.
In the second game, Kellen Jones pitched superbly, taking a no-hitter into the 5th but couldn’t get any run support. Kamloops continued their opportunistic play, hitting and scoring five runs on only two hits. The Orioles only managed three hits and left several runners stranded on base in both games.
The league is sanctioned by the National Baseball Congress (NBC). Most PIL players are NCAA eligible and are unpaid in order to maintain their eligibility for scholarships. The PIL is different from many other summer collegiate baseball leagues in that the league also allows former professionals and college graduates to participate.
This is the Orioles first year in the PIL. The U.S. teams compete toward the NBC World Series and the B.C. teams will vie for the Provincial Championship held this year in Kelowna.
Trail hosts the Western Canadian Championship August 25-28 at Butler Park.
The Orioles next action goes this weekend against the Kelowna Jays, Friday at 7 p.m. and Saturday at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. at Butler Park.
This is an article from the Trail Daily Newspaper from last weekend on the Orioles opening weekend vs Kamloops.
New league, new foes for O’s
By Staff Writer - Trail Daily Times
Published: May 26, 2011
The AM Ford Orioles ventured tentatively onto new terrain last weekend as they made their debut in the Pacific International League (PIL).
Considered by many to be the premier inter-collegiate league in the Northwest, the Orioles will face seven teams from B.C. and three from the Seattle area.
To open the season, the Orioles took on a tough Kamloops Sun Dogs nine, Saturday, losing both ends of a doubleheader 5-3 and 5-0.
The first game went back and forth until a two run home run by the Dogs in the top of the 5th put them on top to stay. Connor Jones and Justion Kitcher pitched well and kept the O’s in the game with Josh Mace leading the offence with two hits.
In the second game, Kellen Jones pitched superbly, taking a no-hitter into the 5th but couldn’t get any run support. Kamloops continued their opportunistic play, hitting and scoring five runs on only two hits. The Orioles only managed three hits and left several runners stranded on base in both games.
The league is sanctioned by the National Baseball Congress (NBC). Most PIL players are NCAA eligible and are unpaid in order to maintain their eligibility for scholarships. The PIL is different from many other summer collegiate baseball leagues in that the league also allows former professionals and college graduates to participate.
This is the Orioles first year in the PIL. The U.S. teams compete toward the NBC World Series and the B.C. teams will vie for the Provincial Championship held this year in Kelowna.
Trail hosts the Western Canadian Championship August 25-28 at Butler Park.
The Orioles next action goes this weekend against the Kelowna Jays, Friday at 7 p.m. and Saturday at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. at Butler Park.
Sunday, June 5, 2011
Former Vernon Viper Morgan Puts Issues With Marlins In The Past:
Morgan played with the Vipers as an "AP" during the 1996-97 season.
Here is the video of Morgan's fight,
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z7WlELYuxT0
This is posted on the Brewers website:
Morgan puts issues with Marlins in the past
By David Villavicencio / Special to MLB.com | 06/03/11
MIAMI -- Many baseball fans remember the bench-clearing incident centered around Nyjer Morgan last September.
Then with the Nationals, Morgan rushed Marlins pitcher Chris Volstad after a pitch was thrown behind him, and madness ensued. The outfielder looked more like a professional wrestler than professional baseball player that night, but the 30-year-old Brewer has put last season's incident behind him.
"It's been past," Morgan said. "I wore one in Spring Training when I was still with the Nationals from [Ricky] Nolasco. To me, it's over with. Maybe to them it's not, but I'm just worried about going out there and getting on base to help us win games."
An emotional player, Morgan has used that fire to provide a spark at the top of the Brewers' lineup. Manager Ron Roenicke embraces Morgan's emotions and thinks they can be beneficial to both the player and the ballclub.
"If it's channeled in the right way, it's actually good," Roenicke said. "He's got energy on the bench and on the field. If you get rid of all that emotion, I don't know if he still has that energy."
The Brewers center fielder does not know what kind of reception he will get from the South Florida crowd this weekend, and neither does his manager. Both are hopeful that nothing will come up when Morgan steps on the field against the Marlins.
"I don't really know," Roenicke said. "I talked to Nyjer a little bit about it, and he's treating it like no big deal. Hopefully there won't be anything."
Even though it is just his first year managing him, Roenicke sees a more mature Morgan this season than he has observed from a distance in the past. Milwaukee's manager thinks there will be less incidents and outbursts from the speedy outfielder as he continues to mature.
"He knows what he should be doing and he knows when he does something wrong," Roenicke said. "When you have that personality and a lot of emotion, things are going to happen. I think he's going to get better at those things as times go on, but they don't just totally disappear. It takes a while."
Saturday, June 4, 2011
Former Vernon Laker Ramsay Signs Two Year Contract With Oilers:
This is posted on the Oilers website:
Ramsay To Return To Bench
After leading the Tulsa Oilers to their longest playoff run in 17 years, Tulsa Oilers coach Bruce Ramsay has signed a two year contract that will carry him through the end of the 2012-2013 season.
“The enthusiasm we saw in the BOK Center during the playoffs was incredible and is definitely a tribute to Bruce and the team and the job they’ve done,” general manager Taylor Hall said. “Having Bruce here will keep the Oilers moving forward.”
Ramsay led the Oilers to a 35-25-6 record, good for third place in the Central Hockey League’s Berry Conference. The team qualified for the playoffs for the first time in six years and won its first playoff series since 1994. In two years, Ramsay’s regular season record with the Oilers is 63-54-13.
“There’s no question we took some great steps last season and are headed in the right direction,” Ramsay said. “The fans really got back into it, and we’re looking forward to next season.”
The Oilers will be hosting their annual Stanley Cup final watch parties at the two Tulsa area Buffalo Wild Wings locations. The Vancouver Canucks await the winner of the series between the Boston Bruins and Tampa Bay Lightning. The Oilers and Buffalo Wild Wings will announce the schedule for the watch parties when the Stanley Cup final is set.
Friday, June 3, 2011
Former Vernon Viper Morgan Takes Hot Streak:
This is posted on the Brewers website:
Crew's Morgan takes hot streak, history to Miami
By Jesse Sanchez / MLB.com | 6/2/2011
Give Milwaukee outfielder Nyjer Morgan credit.
He always finds a way to stir things up.
Since Morgan returned from a stint on the disabled list for a fractured finger, he is hitting .389 (7-for-18) and has claimed playing time from fellow Brewers center fielder Carlos Gomez, who has not been as consistent at the plate.
As a left-handed hitter, Morgan should see significant playing time against the Marlins in the upcoming series because Florida is scheduled to send four right-handed starters to the mound, starting with Ricky Nolasco on Friday.
"He's grabbing it," Brewers manager Ron Roenicke said. "Now, things may change, but right now, absolutely. The nice thing is we've got three guys that can do it with [Morgan, Gomez and Mark] Kotsay in that mix. One of them should be going well. When they're going well, we'll try to get them out there. We may tinker with the platoon [between Morgan and Gomez] a bit more."
Morgan scored a run and went 2-for-3, including a triple, in Wednesday's 4-3 loss to the Reds. He is hitting .383 for the season.
"He's given us such a boost, both offensively and defensively," Roenicke said. "He's been unbelievable for us."
Morgan doesn't expect a friendly reception in Florida. He is returning to Sun Life Stadium for the first time since he was involved in a fracas with the Marlins last season while playing for the Nationals.
In that game, Marlins right-hander Chris Volstad, who is scheduled to pitch Saturday, threw behind Morgan. The outfielder charged Volstad, prompting the benches and bullpens to empty.
"The boo birds will definitely be out," Morgan said. "I just have to stay within myself and play my game. What happened last year, in my eyes, is over."
The Marlins, who were defeated by the D-backs, 6-5, on Wednesday also have other things to think about Friday. They finished their nine-game road trip with a 5-4 record and boast a 17-11 record on the road, but they trail the first-place Phillies by two games in the NL East.
"When you're on the road so much for eight straight days, it's long, it's a grind and for us, it's just going out there continuing to play like we've been playing," Florida's Gaby Sanchez said.
As for Morgan, who was traded from the Nats to the Brewers in March, he doesn't expect any funny business.
"It's over, in my eyes," he said. "At least it should be. But they dotted me in Spring Training again. Nolasco. It was 0-2, and he said he didn't try to do it."
Former Viper Tresierra Heading To Queen's University:
seasons in Vernon (2007-2009) before getting traded to Merritt back in January 2009.
This was posted on the BCHL website:
Cents D-man Tresierra headed to Queen's U to play for Golden Gaels
Wednesday, May 25, 2011 - Submitted by BCHL Media
The Merritt Centennials Hockey Club is pleased to announce defenceman and captain Steve Tresierra has accepted an offer to play for the Queen's University Golden Gaels starting in the 2011-12 season.
Tresierra played all 60 regular season games in each of the past two seasons for the Cents and established a new personal best this year with nine goals on the campaign. He scored 27 points for the second year in a row and finished his BCHL career with 21 goals and 64 assists in 206 games.
The 5-foot-11, 190-pound Golden, B.C. product played four seasons in the league after beginning his career with the Vernon Vipers. He came to Merritt midway through the 2008-09 campaign. He captained the club to consecutive playoff appearances the last two years as the Centennials improved their point totals each year he was with them.
"I think he'll carry the same thing over to Queen's as he did for us," said Merritt head coach Luke Pierce. "He'll be a leader and someone you can build a program around.
"He's everything you want for a small-town hockey club because he gets involved in the community and others follow him."
Tresierra becomes the second straight Centennials captain to go to Queen's as Jordan Soquila went to the Kingston, Ont. campus last season.
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Thompson‘s Excellence Gets Recognized:
Thompson‘s excellence gets recognized
by Don Klepp | Added 2011-05-25
A quiet leader, Adam Thompson has been an integral part of the Viper success in each of his three years with the Vipers.
The morning after Vernon’s tough loss to Pembroke in this year’s RBC Cup final, Adam was understandably subdued, but he was philosophical about this season: “We overcame a lot of things this year. No one expected us to go this far – we were tagged with the ‘rebuilding’ word. But as things progressed, the older guys knew we could do it again. Everybody got on the same page and we just worked together. If you pay attention to detail under Ferns’s system, anything can happen.”
A big part of the team’s success has been Adam’s steady play punctuated by moments of brilliance. He played big minutes for the Vipers during the recent playoff run, despite having a sore, badly swollen foot caused by a shot block. Possibly the league’s best penalty killer, Adam has excelled at helping his goaltender by blocking shots, tying up forwards, and clearing loose pucks.
At this year’s RBC Cup, Adam was named top defensive player and selected to the tournament all star team. Earlier, he received the single RBC scholarship awarded to a BCHL player. That award is based on academic standing, community involvement, and ability to explain how one’s hockey involvement has fostered employability skills such as positive attitude, responsibility, and team work.
He downplayed these personal achievements – “It’s kind of surreal. Getting selected at the RBC was important for my career and I appreciate the recognition, but I’d trade all that for that final win. That’s what we all wanted. Everyone worked so hard and I think the Vipers deserved to win that final game. But sometimes things don’t work put the way you want. That’s life.”
It’s interesting that Adam is now seen as a shutdown defender because he came to the Vipers with a reputation as an offensive defenceman. His big slap shot quickly earned him the nickname, “Tommy Gun,” especially after he scored with a slapper on his very first BCHL shot on goal.
Nearly all of his 27 goals for the Vipers have come from blasts from the point or from the top of the circle. In the 2009-10 season, he probably could have scored 20 such goals, but shot after shot rang off the cross bar or goal posts.
Next year he will take that big shot and his sterling defensive play to Yale University. He had the option of going this year, but opted to return for one more year of seasoning at the Jr. “A” level. He admits that he wouldn’t mind a fourth year in Vernon: “It’s been a great experience, but the three years have gone by in a blur. I’m going to miss Vernon. It’s my second home. Actually, I can see myself retiring to Vernon down the road.”
In the meantime, he can expect a significant role with the Yale Bulldogs. “The coaches tell me that they’re graduating some defencemen this year, so there will be openings. They want me to be a steady D-man. I’ll be an older freshman, so they expect me to provide some leadership on the back end, especially after my experiences at the Telus Cup and the RBC Cup.
At Yale, he will live in residence with randomly selected members of the student population. He says that “Yale stresses a family philosophy, so I’ll get a chance to meet other students, not just hockey players.”
His first year will be in mandated general studies, which will give him time to select a major. “I expect that I’ll have an epiphany, a ‘light bulb moment,’ that will help me decide what to study. That happens to a lot of students, I hear.”
One thing is certain – when the Viper scouting staff saw Adam play Midget hockey and recruited him, their ‘light bulb moment’ was an important discovery for the Vipers.
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
Mark Ferner Weighs In On BCHL New Rules:
This was in the BC Hockey Now Newspaper:
BCHL’S New Rules Receive Mixed Reactions From Around League: Vipers Coach Weighs-In
Friday, May 21, 2011
By Mark Janzen
To say the BCHL’s new rule changes pertaining to rosters have ruffled a few feathers amongst the coaching ranks would be like saying that Vancouver Canucks fans have just a mild distaste for the Chicago Blackhawks.
When Vernon Vipers coach Mark Ferner learned that the maximum roster size for next year would be reduced from 23 to 21, a number the league used to operate under, and each team would be forced to carry at least one 16-year-old and one 17-year-old at all times, he was perturbed to say the least.
“I think it’s ridiculous,” Ferner said just days after leading the Vipers to the RBC Cup final. “If you want to have a 16-year-old, have a 16-year-old. If you want to have a 17-year-old, have a 17-year-old. If you want to have a 21-man roster because you think you can save money, we’re not telling you that you can’t. Go further, have an 18-man roster. I don’t care. But at least give us the opportunity to put the best team on the ice.
“It’s tough to make money in Junior hockey. I understand that. But if you want people to come out and you want to make money, you put a good product on the ice and they’ll keep coming. People don’t care how old the kids are. They want to see good hockey. And they’re not going to get the best product right now. I really, truly believe that.”
While the thinking for the 21-man roster is to save owners money, estimated at between $10,000 and $20,000 per player per year, the 16- and 17-year-old rule is an effort to make the league more developmental. But again, Ferner had serious qualms.
“These players [16-year-olds] have already been identified because the WHL drafts them at 15-years-old,” Ferner said. “So what happens when November rolls around and they get pulled up by a WHL team? Then we don’t have our 16-year-old, anymore.”
John Grisdale, the commissioner of the BCHL, argued the changes are in fact a step in the right direction both on and off the ice.
“We’re saying to teams we want to be a younger, development league,” Grisdale said. “The governors reduced the rosters to 21, which means there won’t be as many players sitting in the stands. The league wants to get young players into the league and develop them.
“It’s a business decision in that there won’t be as many players in the program and it’s a player development decision, allowing the players to play on teams [Junior B or Major Midget] where they can get ice time.
“We’re not forcing anyone to do anything. There are enough good 16-year-olds [17 played in the BCHL last year] that want to play in our league.”
Upset as Ferner may be, he will have to live with the BCHL’s board of governors decisions this year, but he believes the roster size changes will revert back within a year.
BCHL’S New Rules Receive Mixed Reactions From Around League: Vipers Coach Weighs-In
Friday, May 21, 2011
By Mark Janzen
To say the BCHL’s new rule changes pertaining to rosters have ruffled a few feathers amongst the coaching ranks would be like saying that Vancouver Canucks fans have just a mild distaste for the Chicago Blackhawks.
When Vernon Vipers coach Mark Ferner learned that the maximum roster size for next year would be reduced from 23 to 21, a number the league used to operate under, and each team would be forced to carry at least one 16-year-old and one 17-year-old at all times, he was perturbed to say the least.
“I think it’s ridiculous,” Ferner said just days after leading the Vipers to the RBC Cup final. “If you want to have a 16-year-old, have a 16-year-old. If you want to have a 17-year-old, have a 17-year-old. If you want to have a 21-man roster because you think you can save money, we’re not telling you that you can’t. Go further, have an 18-man roster. I don’t care. But at least give us the opportunity to put the best team on the ice.
“It’s tough to make money in Junior hockey. I understand that. But if you want people to come out and you want to make money, you put a good product on the ice and they’ll keep coming. People don’t care how old the kids are. They want to see good hockey. And they’re not going to get the best product right now. I really, truly believe that.”
While the thinking for the 21-man roster is to save owners money, estimated at between $10,000 and $20,000 per player per year, the 16- and 17-year-old rule is an effort to make the league more developmental. But again, Ferner had serious qualms.
“These players [16-year-olds] have already been identified because the WHL drafts them at 15-years-old,” Ferner said. “So what happens when November rolls around and they get pulled up by a WHL team? Then we don’t have our 16-year-old, anymore.”
John Grisdale, the commissioner of the BCHL, argued the changes are in fact a step in the right direction both on and off the ice.
“We’re saying to teams we want to be a younger, development league,” Grisdale said. “The governors reduced the rosters to 21, which means there won’t be as many players sitting in the stands. The league wants to get young players into the league and develop them.
“It’s a business decision in that there won’t be as many players in the program and it’s a player development decision, allowing the players to play on teams [Junior B or Major Midget] where they can get ice time.
“We’re not forcing anyone to do anything. There are enough good 16-year-olds [17 played in the BCHL last year] that want to play in our league.”
Upset as Ferner may be, he will have to live with the BCHL’s board of governors decisions this year, but he believes the roster size changes will revert back within a year.
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Former Vernon Viper Roy Commits To University Of Alaska-Anchorage Seawolves:
This is posted on the Eagles website:
Kory Roy commits to the University of Alaska-Anchorage
2011 May 19th
Twenty year-old graduate Kory Roy has committed to play for the University of Alaska-Anchorage Seawolves next season. A native of Anchorage, Kory will be suiting up for his hometown team. The Seawolves compete in the Western Collegiate Hockey Association.
Kory won a national championship with the Vernon Vipers in the 2008-2009 season before coming to Canmore. This season, he put up 30 goals and 33 assists for 63 points which put him in the AJHL's top ten.
"I really want to say thanks to everyone in the Eagles organization, especially Andrew Milne, Kurtis Jones, Darryl Lockwood, Dave and Jenny Palmer, and Jack and Dorothy Hetter. My time in Canmore was amazing, and I'm grateful to have had the opportunity to play there. I'm looking forward to the next chapter with the Seawolves but will always remember my time as an Eagle," said Kory.
"The entire organization is very happy for Kory and his accomplishments. Kory was very passionate about his goal of playing Division 1 hockey, and we are pleased to see such a fine young man achieve this. Kory has an excellent shot and ability to score goals and has proven that he understands the game very well. I am convinced that with his skill set and leadership, he will excel with Anchorage and grow into a big part of their success. The Eagles organization would like to congratulate Kory and his family; we wish him all the success with the Seawolves," said head coach Andrew Milne.
Monday, May 30, 2011
Vipers Lose Two Veterans From 2010 RBC Cup Championship Team:
On Wednesday the Vernon Vipers made two pretty big off season trades both resulting in giving back the future considerations in two seperate trades that were made back on the BCHL trade deadline in January.
The first trade saw the Vipers send Vernon product and first year Viper, Trevor Fitzgerald to the Prince George Spruce Kings. Back on the BCHL trade deadline the Vipers sent forward, Todd Skirving along with future considerations to PG for d-man, Ryan Renz. Fitzgerald who played in three games as an "AP" with Vernon during the 2009-2010 season played his first full season with his hometown Vipers this past season playing in fifty eight games. In two years with the Vipers Fitzgerald collected (8-11-19). Fitzgerald played on the Vipers fourth line with Colton Sparrow and Zach McPhee most of the year on a solid fourth line checking unit that played very well together and gave the other team troubles. I really liked Trevor Fitzgerald and was expecting big things from the local kid in his second full season in Vernon this coming September. It's always sad to see a local kid go. Fitzgerald will join former Vernon Vipers forward, Todd Skirving who was part of this deal back in January. When Renz was aquired from PG he was only coming to Vernon for the remainder of the season before heading off to school, but near the end of the regular season rumors were circling the Wesbild Centre that the Vipers defenceman, may return to Vernon for a second season. I guess will have to wait and see what happens over the summer. Trevor has the ability to be a leader and character veteran on a Spruce Kings team that will need his grit, toughness and leadership to compete with the top teams in the Interior Conference. Watch for Fitzgerald to be one of the Spruce Kings top players this coming season. All the best In PG Trevor and thanks for some great memories and being a Vernon Viper.
Trevor Fitzgerald's Player Profile:
http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/rosters_profile.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&teamID=267279&playerID=615780
In the second trade of the day saw the Vipers send second year 20 yr old goaltender, Blake Voth to the SJHL Battlefords North Stars. Back on the BCHL trade deadline the Vipers aquired the playing rights to forward, Dane Muench for future considerations, this being Voth. Word out of Battlefords is that the North Stars are now looking at sending the former Viper goaltender to another team in the SJHL before the season starts come September. In 2009-2010 Voth 21-2 with three shutouts as well as breaking the BCHL record for the lowest goals against average with a 1.79 GAA as the Vipers backup goaltender behind veteran 20 yr old, Graeme Gordon. This past season, Voth went 25-11-3 with four shutouts and a 2.12 GAA. Voth was given the team's #1 job to start the season with 18 yr old rookie goaltender, Bryton Udy as the Vipers backup. Voth just didnt seem to have the confidence and struggled early and often as the season went on. The Vipers who outshot most teams by wide margins were losing games as Voth or Udy were unable to come up with the big save when needed. Several games through out the season Voth would allow atleast one soft goal wich seemed to deflate the hockey club. On December, 1st (BCHL card deadline) the Vipers aquired veteran 19 yr old goaltender, Kirby Halcrow from the Quesnel Millionaires as both Halcrow and Voth split the remainder of the games through out the BCHL regular season. Voth once again struggled in the BCHL playoffs before Halcrow took over as the teams #1 man between the pipes and would lead the Vipers to the RBC Cup Final. You knew that Voth's days were numbered before the upcoming season as the Vipers wernt going to go with two 20 yr old goaltenders. Im a little surprised that the Voth was the future considerations in the Dane Muench deal. Voth a #1 goaltender could have easily been used in another trade to aquire a veteran defenceman or a goal scorer but instead was delt to Battlefords for Muench who hasnt really lived up to his potential. This is a steal of a deal for the North Stars, sending a kid like Muench who wasnt even on the teams roster at the time of the trade back In January. Blake needs to regain his confidence and get his game back that he had as a rookie with the Vipers. It will be interesting to see where Blake ends up before the 2011-12 season. Id like to thank Blake for his time as a Viper and wish him all the best where ever he lands over the summer.
Blake Voth's Player Profile:
http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/rosters_profile.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&teamID=267279&playerID=568041&pos=G
With now both Fitzgerald and Voth traded, the Vipers have a possible 14 players that could return for the 2011-12 season.
Patrick McGillis
Marcus Basara
Mike Zalewski
Darren Nowick
John Knisley
Aaron Hadley
Colton Sparrow
Brett Corkey
Ryan Renz
Dane Muench
Max Mowat
Zach McPhee
Phillip Patenaude
Kirby Halcrow
The first trade saw the Vipers send Vernon product and first year Viper, Trevor Fitzgerald to the Prince George Spruce Kings. Back on the BCHL trade deadline the Vipers sent forward, Todd Skirving along with future considerations to PG for d-man, Ryan Renz. Fitzgerald who played in three games as an "AP" with Vernon during the 2009-2010 season played his first full season with his hometown Vipers this past season playing in fifty eight games. In two years with the Vipers Fitzgerald collected (8-11-19). Fitzgerald played on the Vipers fourth line with Colton Sparrow and Zach McPhee most of the year on a solid fourth line checking unit that played very well together and gave the other team troubles. I really liked Trevor Fitzgerald and was expecting big things from the local kid in his second full season in Vernon this coming September. It's always sad to see a local kid go. Fitzgerald will join former Vernon Vipers forward, Todd Skirving who was part of this deal back in January. When Renz was aquired from PG he was only coming to Vernon for the remainder of the season before heading off to school, but near the end of the regular season rumors were circling the Wesbild Centre that the Vipers defenceman, may return to Vernon for a second season. I guess will have to wait and see what happens over the summer. Trevor has the ability to be a leader and character veteran on a Spruce Kings team that will need his grit, toughness and leadership to compete with the top teams in the Interior Conference. Watch for Fitzgerald to be one of the Spruce Kings top players this coming season. All the best In PG Trevor and thanks for some great memories and being a Vernon Viper.
Trevor Fitzgerald's Player Profile:
http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/rosters_profile.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&teamID=267279&playerID=615780
In the second trade of the day saw the Vipers send second year 20 yr old goaltender, Blake Voth to the SJHL Battlefords North Stars. Back on the BCHL trade deadline the Vipers aquired the playing rights to forward, Dane Muench for future considerations, this being Voth. Word out of Battlefords is that the North Stars are now looking at sending the former Viper goaltender to another team in the SJHL before the season starts come September. In 2009-2010 Voth 21-2 with three shutouts as well as breaking the BCHL record for the lowest goals against average with a 1.79 GAA as the Vipers backup goaltender behind veteran 20 yr old, Graeme Gordon. This past season, Voth went 25-11-3 with four shutouts and a 2.12 GAA. Voth was given the team's #1 job to start the season with 18 yr old rookie goaltender, Bryton Udy as the Vipers backup. Voth just didnt seem to have the confidence and struggled early and often as the season went on. The Vipers who outshot most teams by wide margins were losing games as Voth or Udy were unable to come up with the big save when needed. Several games through out the season Voth would allow atleast one soft goal wich seemed to deflate the hockey club. On December, 1st (BCHL card deadline) the Vipers aquired veteran 19 yr old goaltender, Kirby Halcrow from the Quesnel Millionaires as both Halcrow and Voth split the remainder of the games through out the BCHL regular season. Voth once again struggled in the BCHL playoffs before Halcrow took over as the teams #1 man between the pipes and would lead the Vipers to the RBC Cup Final. You knew that Voth's days were numbered before the upcoming season as the Vipers wernt going to go with two 20 yr old goaltenders. Im a little surprised that the Voth was the future considerations in the Dane Muench deal. Voth a #1 goaltender could have easily been used in another trade to aquire a veteran defenceman or a goal scorer but instead was delt to Battlefords for Muench who hasnt really lived up to his potential. This is a steal of a deal for the North Stars, sending a kid like Muench who wasnt even on the teams roster at the time of the trade back In January. Blake needs to regain his confidence and get his game back that he had as a rookie with the Vipers. It will be interesting to see where Blake ends up before the 2011-12 season. Id like to thank Blake for his time as a Viper and wish him all the best where ever he lands over the summer.
Blake Voth's Player Profile:
http://www.bchl.ca/leagues/rosters_profile.cfm?clientID=1413&leagueID=2393&teamID=267279&playerID=568041&pos=G
With now both Fitzgerald and Voth traded, the Vipers have a possible 14 players that could return for the 2011-12 season.
Patrick McGillis
Marcus Basara
Mike Zalewski
Darren Nowick
John Knisley
Aaron Hadley
Colton Sparrow
Brett Corkey
Ryan Renz
Dane Muench
Max Mowat
Zach McPhee
Phillip Patenaude
Kirby Halcrow
Sunday, May 29, 2011
Road Trippin' With Former Vernon Viper Rod Pelley:
Rod Pelley's Player Profile:
http://devils.nhl.com/club/player.htm?id=8472355
This is posted on the New Jersey Devils website:
After four days and nearly 3,000 miles, Rod Pelley's journey across Canada ended. He left Montreal at 5:33 a.m. and hit the greater Vancouver area at 7:31 p.m. ET.
To read the full article check out the link below,
http://devils.nhl.com/club/news.htm?id=560948
Saturday, May 28, 2011
Former Viper Morgan Returns To Brewers Lineup:
This is posted on the Brewers website:
Morgan, Wilson give Brewers standard roster
By Adam McCalvy and Audrey Snider / MLB.com | 05/28/11
MILWAUKEE -- Outfielder Nyjer Morgan returned to the Brewers' starting lineup Friday after missing three weeks with a fractured left middle finger.
Morgan's return from the 15-day disabled list, coupled with the addition of 30-year-old infielder Josh Wilson via waivers from the D-backs, gave the Brewers something they've lacked -- a standard 25-man roster of five starting pitchers, seven relievers, two catchers, six infielders and five outfielders.
"As I was writing them down there I was saying, 'You know, this is really a nice lineup,'" manager Ron Roenicke said. "Then I looked at the bench and I said, 'You know, this is really a nice bench.' It's versatile, and I like what I saw today."
Including Friday's start, Morgan has played only 16 of the Brewers' first 51 games. Before breaking his finger, which was heavily taped on Friday, he had a previous stint on the DL with a right thigh bruise.
"The key is somebody needs to put away that little voodoo doll so the fans can see 'Plush,'" Morgan said, referring to his on-field alter ego, Tony Plush. "And the organization, the organization hasn't seen Plush."
Just a few lockers away, Wilson wasn't sure what Roenicke wanted from him on Day 1.
"Maybe a right-handed bat off the bench a little bit, maybe give those guys a breather, Casey [McGehee] or Rickie [Weeks] or Yuni [Betancourt], if they need a break or something," Wilson said. "My role is just going to be to show up and do what I can when I can."
Wilson played 302 Major League games with the Marlins, Nationals, Padres, Mariners and D-backs, and Roenicke said he's comfortable playing him at shortstop, second, or third.
Wilson was 2-for-10 with the D-backs this season and hit .351 with a home run and 12 RBIs for Arizona's Triple-A Reno affiliate.
To make room for Morgan and Wilson on the roster, the Brewers outrighted outfielder Brandon Boggs and catcher Mike Rivera to Triple-A Nashville. Both Boggs and Rivera had been outrighted before, and had the right to refuse the assignment. But Boggs accepted Friday, and Rivera is expected to accept Saturday or Sunday.
North Stars Looking At Trading Former Viper Voth:
http://thevoicedo.blogspot.com/
Friday, May 27, 2011
Pearson Gives Hildebrand Some Good News.
If all goes according to plan, Graham Hildebrand will be the number one goaltender for the Battlefords North Stars in 2011-2012.
24-hours after the Stars acquired goaltender Blake Voth from the Vernon Vipers, Ken Pearson made his stance clear on CJNB/CJNS radio this afternoon.
"Graham Hildebrand is going to be our number one goaltender, and Blake is probably going to be moved so we can strengthen our club in other areas," said Pearson earlier today. "I've talked to Blake, and he understands what we're trying to do, and he's going to sit patiently to see what happens as things play out over the summer months and into the fall."
Pearson added, "With Blake being a Saskatchewan boy, going into his 20-year-old season. We thought that maybe he'd be looking to come back to Saskatchewan to play. We felt we had a better chance moving him in Saskatchewan. That's part of our reasoning for going about things the way that we did."
Graham Hildebrand will be a guest on Monday's edition of the CO-OP Leisure Time Sports Fix.
Vipers Skinny On The Blueline:
On Tuesday it was announced that Catholic Memorial Senior Defenseman Marc Hetnik has committed to play in Vernon this coming season before heading off to Boston University the following year. Hetnik, who was CM’s captain and tallied four goals and 16 assists this season, earned Boston Globe All Scholastic, Boston Herald Dream Team and ESPN Boston First Team All Star honors. Hetnik sounds like a real good pick-up for the Vipers and will hopefully bolster the Vernon blueline.
It will be interesting to see if Mark Ferner tried to aquire a veteran defenceman or two over the off season to help fill in the backend.
Welcome to Vernon Marc and all the best this coming season with the Vipers!
Friday, May 27, 2011
Former Viper Morgan Homers In First Rehab Start:
This is posted on the Brewers website:
Morgan homers in first rehab start
By Adam McCalvy / MLB.com | 05/24/11
MILWAUKEE -- Whether he went 1-for-3 or 1-for-4, Nyjer Morgan was enthusiastic about his return to action, as he nears the end of his latest stint on the disabled list.
Morgan played the first of two scheduled games on a Minor League rehabilitation assignment on Tuesday, leading off every inning of an exhibition game at extended Spring Training in Phoenix. He took his excitement to Twitter, where Morgan posts as @TheRealTPlush, and reported going 1-for-3 with a two-run home run, a stolen base and four walks. The report Brewers manager Ron Roenicke saw had Morgan going 1-for-4.
Either way, Morgan was fired-up.
"I was feeling like [Corey] Hart with dat bomb I hit!" Morgan wrote, a nod to teammate Hart's three-homer effort on Monday night in Milwaukee.
Morgan, on the 15-day DL since fracturing his left middle finger on May 5, is expected to play one more game on Wednesday and could be back with the Brewers for Friday's series opener against Tim Lincecum and the Giants.
Fitzgerald Sent To Spruce Kings:
Fitzgerald sent to Spruce Kings
By Kevin Mitchell - Vernon Morning Star
Published: May 27, 2011
There was much doom and gloom around the B.C. Hockey League championship Vernon Vipers coaching office Wednesday morning.
The Vipers, like a father being asked to pick his No. 1 son, traded popular forward Trevor Fitzgerald to the Prince George Spruce Kings, completing a deal which saw defenceman Ryan Renz join the Snakes at the Jan. 10 trading deadline.
Fitzgerald, an 18-year-old Vernon product, compiled seven goals and 18 points in his rookie season after playing for the Vipers at the 2010 Royal Bank Cup in Dauphin, Man.
“Did we want to do this deal? No,” said Vipers’ head coach/GM Mark Ferner. “We kind of got handcuffed because we didn’t have enough defencemen (at the time of the trade). Obviously, Fitzy’s a very good player, a very good teammate and he’s going to be missed.
“It’s unfortunate that we paid a premium price. This is the real lousy part of the business. He was a good player for us. The deeper we got, the steeper the price got.”
Prince George dealt Renz, a 17-year-old Castlegar product who is rated as a late-rounder in next month’s NHL Entry Draft in Minnesota, in exchange for future considerations. The terms were based on how far Vernon went in the playoffs.
“There were a number of players they could have had, but they really wanted Fitzy,” said Ferner.
Fitzgerald will be reunited with his North Okanagan Knights junior B coach – Dave Dupas – in Prince George. Fitzgerald was a 40-goal man with the Knights.
Renz, who will likely put off his scholarship with the NCAA Northeastern Huskies for a year, compiled 4-10-14 in 35 games with Vernon.
Fitzgerald, whose feisty, no-fear attitude made him a fan favourite, says he learned loads under Ferner and Williamson.
“I improved overall with the knowledge given me. I know what it takes to get to a national championship. I learned a lot from the coaches here.”
In another move, the Vipers traded 20-year-old goalie Blake Voth to the North Battleford North Stars of the Saskatchewan Junior League, completing a deal which saw forward Dane Muench land in Vernon at the trading deadline.
The Vipers will return 20-year-old all-star net detective Kirby Halcrow next season.
Meanwhile, former Viper d-man Steve Tresierra of the Merritt Centennials has accepted an offer to play for the Queen’s University Golden Gaels in Kingston, Ont. starting this fall.
Tresierra played all 60 regular-season games in each of the past two seasons for the Cents and established a new personal best this year with nine goals. He amassed 27 points for the second year in a row and finished his BCHL career with 21 goals and 64 assists in 206 games.
The 5-foot-11, 190-pound Golden, B.C. product played four seasons in the league after beginning his career with the Vipers.
“I think he’ll carry the same thing over to Queen’s as he did for us,” said Merritt head coach Luke Pierce, a Viper grad, on the BCHL website. “He’ll be a leader and someone you can build a program around.
Quesnel Millionaires Relocating To Chilliwack:
This was in the Chilliwack Times Newspaper:
Smyl to coach Chilliwack BCHL team; Keith promises cheaper, offensive hockey
By Tyler Olsen, Chilliwack Times May 24, 2011
The British Columbia Hockey League is back in Chilliwack.
The BCHL board of governors has unanimously approved the sale of the Quesnel Millionaires and the franchise's relocation to Chilliwack.
The new ownership group includes Chiefs Development Group principals Moray Keith and Jim Bond, along with Harvey Smyl, who will serve as the team's coach and general manager.
"We're thrilled," Keith told the Times. "We've always been big fans of the BCHL. We wanted to have hockey in Chilliwack. We think the BCHL is a wonderful alternative. It's respectful hockey."
With the Langley Chiefs having been renamed the Rivermen, the franchise will likely be called the Chiefs. "Chiefs hockey represented great hockey in Chilliwack and the fan support we had behind the Chiefs was just wonderful," he said. "Chiefs hockey was a fun time for Chilliwack. With Harvey it's always been winning hockey and it's also growing young men and . . . I think that's something the community bought into big time with the old Chiefs teams."
But Keith told the Times that, while he favours the old name, the franchise plans to ask fans for their two cents.
"We're going to take a little look at that over the next week or two," said Keith.
Jersey and logo decisions will also involve community input, Keith promised, but he stressed that any Chiefs logo must be respectful.
"I think we need to do something that's very respectful when we're doing the Chiefs," he said. "I think we've had some great jerseys in the past and we've also had some that were a little bit comical, and I think we'll stay away from those and head to just a real classy jersey."
As for a mascot, Keith doesn't rule out the return of an old standby.
"I always thought the name Chief Wannawin is pretty cool," he said, when asked specifically about the former Chiefs standard-bearer.
CDG owns and operates Prospera Centre and owned a minority share of the now-departed Chilliwack Bruins of the Western Hockey League.
Keith doesn't think it will be difficult to attract fans to watch a BCHL team in an arena which, with a seating capacity of around 5,000, will be one of the largest buildings in the league.
"What we're finding is tremendous support from the folks in the community who are anxious to have the BCHL back in town."
He pointed out that the Chiefs averaged more than 3,000 fans their first year in Prospera Centre, before the team left for Langley.
"We think we've got an opportunity to drive that," he told the Times. "Number one, we've got a more affordable ticket. We're going to be making it very approachable and very easy for families to attend. We think that hockey in Chilliwack should be a family outing. It should be something you want to take your kids to and there will be zero-tolerance for misbehaviour in the stands."
He said there are no plans to tarp over sections of seats. The franchise also plans to replace the videoboard that departed with the Bruins.
"We believe we have to step it up a bit," said Keith. "There's no doubt that the WHL was a higher-profile league and we need to make sure we're doing the same thing for the BCHL and we will."
He said the lower costs associated with operating a BCHL team will make it easier for the franchise to afford to bring a top-notch experience to fans.
"Our intention is to fill the building. There's no ifs ands or buts."
Keith clearly believes that Smyl—who coached the Langley Chiefs last year but who still lives in Chilliwack—will be a vital part of the on- and off-ice success of the team.
The Millionaires won just 13 games last year and were swiftly dispatched in four games in the playoffs. With the BCHL ushering in a new playoff format that will see only four teams from each division qualify for the post-season, Chilliwack will be in tough. But Keith has confidence in Smyl's ability to work wonders with young players and promote an entertaining style of play.
"Harvey seems to lose five or six games at the start of the year, by Christmas time he's playing .500 hockey, and by the time he hits the end of the year, he's in the second round of the playoffs," said Keith. "What fans, I believe, want is guys who go out every shift and give it everything they've got and we can promise we're going to have exciting offensive hockey.
"Yeah, it'll take a few minutes to get a team sorted around but Harvey's used to rebuilding teams because we've always incentivized Harvey based on sending . . . young men [to college] rather than holding them from 16 to 20 on the team."
The Western Hockey League had previously expressed an interest in returning to Chilliwack, but Keith said he and his partners are fully committed to the BCHL.
"Judging by the way we were treated by the WHL, we're not very anxious to be involved with those folks again," he said.
Keith says the franchise has put in place a 10-year lease for the Prospera Centre.
He also emphasized the need for community involvement in the team and hopes to recruit an army of volunteer ushers, ticket-takers, billeters and security personnel.
"We're going to look for a lot of people to be involved," said Keith. "We believe that rather than commercializing some of those positions, we should be trying to look for people who want to be involved in the community and involve some of the clubs and also some of the students."
He said the team plans to begin hiring within two weeks, with a business manager and marketer at the top of the list.
Chilliwack will play in the BCHL's Interior Conference next year. Realignment will take place the following, according to the league.
BC Hockey must still rubber-stamp the move, but that approval is expected at a conference call scheduled for June 7. The new Chilliwack owners, meanwhile, are planning a summer of announcements tied to the new team and are begging for input from local hockey fans and residents.
"We firmly believe the team belongs to the community," said Keith. "We get to be caretakers of the team."
Thursday, May 26, 2011
Former Viper Morgan Set For Rehab Stint:
This is posted on the Brewers website:
Morgan and Braddock set for rehab stints
By Audrey Snyder and Adam McCalvy / MLB.com | 05/22/11
MILWAUKEE -- Outfielder Nyjer Morgan and left-handed reliever Zach Braddock are tentatively scheduled to take the next step in their rehabilitation processes.
Braddock (0-1, 2.79 ERA) is expected to throw a maximum of 35 pitches on Monday for Class A Wisconsin. Weather could impact whether Braddock makes an appearance. The lefty hasn't played with the Brewers since being placed on the 15-day disabled list on May 3 due to a sleep disorder.
Morgan has been on the 15-day DL since May 6 with a fractured left middle finger, and is expected to go to extended spring training in Phoenix on Tuesday. Morgan appeared in just 15 games this season after a previous stint on the DL with a right thigh bruise limited him early on.
The player and manager Ron Roenicke met to discuss the move, and the plan is for Morgan to play two games in Arizona where he will see a lot of action. Morgan could lead off every inning in the extended program if desired.
"In my eyes it's healed, it's healed enough," Morgan said. "But it's all about basically just looking after my future and what's better for the team. Ron wants 100-percent 'Nyj Morgan' out there and I can't blame him, even though I want to get out there now."
Roenicke said Morgan needs six or seven at-bats, and though the outfielder originally wanted to stay close by, the predicted weather forecast for the Timber Rattlers, who head to Peoria, Ill., made Arizona the best option.
"He doesn't have to just play his position, he can lead off the innings, play seven innings and get six at-bats, which makes a lot more sense for me," Roenicke said.
Former Viper Zurevinski Planning On Returning To School:
This was in the New Haven Register Newspaper:
Signs pointing to return for Quinnipiac captain Scott Zurevinski
Published: Monday, May 09, 2011
HAMDEN — Quinnipiac men’s hockey captain Scott Zurevinski is planning on returning to school for his senior season. At least for the time being.
Last spring, Zurevinski turned down an NHL contract offer from the Vancouver Canucks and returned to school. Most, including Quinnipiac coach Rand Pecknold, figured Zurevinski would decide to turn professional after the season.
But Zurevinski said all along he wouldn’t leave until the time was right, and that he could remain at Quinnipiac through his senior year. Pecknold said Monday that Zurevinski is leaning toward returning to school, but the right offer could change his mind.
“As of now, he’s coming back,” Pecknold said. “That’s his plan for now, but things can still change. Guys have signed in June and July in the past, so we won’t know for sure until Aug. 25 (when classes at Quinnipiac begin). But I think he’ll be back here.”
Zurevinski, a 6-foot-3, 210-pound wing from Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, led the Bobcats with 25 points last season. He is scheduled to serve as captain again this winter.
Quinnipiac came within an overtime loss at Cornell of reaching the ECAC semifinals last March, and returns the bulk of the roster. It will also be aided by another solid recruiting class. Among those expected to contribute are Matthew Peca, a forward for Pembroke of the Central Canada Junior Hockey League. Peca led his team to the prestigious Royal Crown Cup as national Junior ‘A’ champions on Sunday, and was named the tournament’s outstanding forward.
Also scheduled to arrive in Hamden this fall are defensemen Jack Callahan (Springfield, Eastern Junior Hockey League) and Dan Federico (Boston, EJHL), forward Bryce Van Brabant (Spruce Grove, Alberta) and goalie Michael Gartieg (Powell River, British Columbia).
The most intriguing recruit is 6-foot-7, 244-pound goalie John Nauta, who was named the EJHL goaltender of the year after going 23-2-2 with a 1.67 goals-against average and .937 save percentage for New Jersey last winter. Nauta spent some time in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League, which cost him a year of college eligibility. He will take classes at Quinnipiac next year, but won’t take the ice until the fall of 2012.
Former Viper Brownlee Releases New Song "Carried Away"
Chad Brownlee performs the new "Carried Away" song live in the KICX 106 studios, check out the video
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lDbgHXbCRMA
For more on Chad Brownlee visit his website,
http://chadbrownlee.com/wordpress/bio
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Vipers Deal Fitzgerald To Prince George & Trade Voth:
Vipers deal Fitzgerald to Prince George
By Kevin Mitchell - Vernon Morning Star
Published: May 25, 2011
The B.C. Hockey League champion Vernon Vipers have traded forward Trevor Fitzgerald to the Prince George Spruce Kings, completing a deal which saw defenceman Ryan Renz join the Snakes at the Jan. 10 trading deadline.
Fitzgerald, an 18-year-old Vernon product, compiled seven goals and 18 points in his rookie season after playing for the Vipers at the 2010 Royal Bank Cup in Dauphin, Man.
“Did we want to do this deal? No,” said Vipers’ head coach/GM Mark Ferner. “We kind of got handcuffed because we didn’t have enough defencemen (at the time of the trade). Obviously, Fitzy’s a very good player, a very good teammate and he’s going to be missed.
“It’s unfortunate that we paid a premium price. This is the real lousy part of the business. He was a good player for us. The deeper we got, the steeper the price got.”
Prince George dealt Renz, a 17-year-old Castlegar product who is rated as a late-rounder in next month’s NHL Entry Draft in Minnesota, in exchange for future considerations. The terms were based on how far Vernon went in the playoffs.
“There were a number of players they could have had, but they really wanted Fitzy,” said Ferner.
Fitzgerald, who will graduate from high school next month, was distraught after meeting with Ferner and assistant coach Jason Williamson.
"I'm a little bit numb right now," said Fitzgerald. "That's the way it goes. It was a good experience with the Vipers. We had a great year and it was a lot of fun."
Fitzgerald will be reunited with his North Okanagan Knights junior B coach – Dave Dupas – in Prince George.
In another move, the Vipers traded 20-year-old goalie Blake Voth to the North Battleford North Stars of the Saskatchewan Junior League, completing a deal which saw forward Dane Muench land in Vernon at the trading deadline.
The Vipers will return 20-year-old all-star net detective Kirby Halcrow next season.
More on the trade, visit the Spruce Kings website:
http://www.sprucekings.bc.ca/content/view/923/1/
Pembroke Overdoes RBC Celebration:
This was in Sundays Morning Star Newspaper:
Pembroke overdoes RBC celebration
Pembroke is a pretty forestry city of 23,000 nestled on the shores of the Ottawa River in the heart of the Ottawa Valley.
Their junior A hockey team, known as the Lumber Kings, shut out the Vipers 2-0 in the Royal Bank Cup two weeks ago, and all of a sudden they’re calling themselves Hockey Town Canada.
Hmm, let’s see. The Vipers have been to nine national championships and won six, yet Vernon doesn’t claim to be anything except a winning hockey town.
Pembroke has played in five national tournaments and this was their first title. Hardly reason enough for their mayor, Ed Jacyno, to change his voicemail to say callers had reached “The mayor of Hockey Town Canada and the proud mayor of the RBC Cup champion Pembroke Lumber Kings , the best in Canada.”
Perhaps they should wait until they win two or three, or at least a Kraft Hockeyville smorg before boasting of such a thing.
Pembroke overdoes RBC celebration
Pembroke is a pretty forestry city of 23,000 nestled on the shores of the Ottawa River in the heart of the Ottawa Valley.
Their junior A hockey team, known as the Lumber Kings, shut out the Vipers 2-0 in the Royal Bank Cup two weeks ago, and all of a sudden they’re calling themselves Hockey Town Canada.
Hmm, let’s see. The Vipers have been to nine national championships and won six, yet Vernon doesn’t claim to be anything except a winning hockey town.
Pembroke has played in five national tournaments and this was their first title. Hardly reason enough for their mayor, Ed Jacyno, to change his voicemail to say callers had reached “The mayor of Hockey Town Canada and the proud mayor of the RBC Cup champion Pembroke Lumber Kings , the best in Canada.”
Perhaps they should wait until they win two or three, or at least a Kraft Hockeyville smorg before boasting of such a thing.
Former Viper Bishop & The Bulldogs Fall Short In Game 7 Of Conference Finals:
This is posted on the Bulldogs website:
BULLDOGS ELIMINATED AFTER 4-3 GAME 7 LOSS TO AEROS
The loss eliminates the ‘Dogs from the 2011 Calder Cup Playoffs while the Aeros will now advance to the Calder Cup Finals.
May 25, 2011
Houston, TX – The Hamilton Bulldogs were defeated by the Houston Aeros 4-3 in Game 7 of their Western Conference Finals series. The loss eliminates the ‘Dogs from the 2011 Calder Cup Playoffs while the Aeros will now advance to the Calder Cup Finals.
The Aeros opened the game’s scoring at 7:03 of the first frame. Patrick O’Sullivan collected the puck behind the Bulldogs net before flipping a pass to the front of the net. Chad Rau whacked at the puck, sending it past Hamilton starting goaltender Drew MacIntyre. Casey Wellman gave Houston a 2-0 lead nine seconds after their first goal. Wellman carried the puck into the Bulldogs zone before rifling a shot towards the net. The puck bounced off the stick of a Hamilton defender and over the left shoulder of MacIntyre.
The Bulldogs made the game 2-1 at 9:13 of the opening period. Dustin Boyd received the puck from Mathieu Carle and skated into the Houston zone. Boyd fired a shot towards the net that redirected off the stick of an Aeros player and over the glove of Houston starting goaltender Matt Hackett. The ‘Dogs tied the game 2-2 at 13:21 while on the power play. Nigel Dawes sent the puck to the right point, where Carle was stationed. Carle released a wrist shot that sailed through traffic and past Hackett.
Houston regained the lead at 2:42 of the second stanza. Jean-Michel Daoust gave the puck to Wellman, who skated to the top of the right faceoff circle. Wellman blasted a slap shot that beat MacIntyre under the blocker.
Hamilton tied the game 3-3 at 9:57 of the middle frame with a power-play goal. Boyd fired a shot towards the net which bounced off players in front and trickled to the right side of the goal. Aaron Palushaj grabbed the loose puck before snapping a shot past the glove of Hackett.
The Aeros earned the game-winning goal at 18:47 of the final frame. O’Sullivan carried the puck down the left side of Hamilton’s zone before sending the puck to the front of Hamilton’s net. Jon DiSalvatore jammed at the puck, shoving it underneath MacIntyre and across the goal line.
Highlights of tonight’s game can be found on http://www.sendtonews.com/
Scoring Summary:
1st Period:
1. HOU – Chad Rau – 6 (Patrick O’Sullivan) – 7:03
2. HOU – Casey Wellman – 4 (Unassisted) – 7:12
3. HAM – Dustin Boyd – 5 (Mathieu Carle, Drew MacIntyre) – 9:13
4. HAM – Mathieu Carle – 3 (Nigel Dawes) – 13:21 (PP)
2nd Period:
5. HOU – Casey Wellman – 5 (Jean-Michel Daoust, Justin Falk) – 2:42
6. HAM – Aaron Palushaj – 7 (Dustin Boyd, Nigel Dawes) – 9:57 (PP)
3rd Period:
7. HOU – Jon DiSalvatore – 5 (Patrick O’Sullivan, Chad Rau) – 18:47
Scoring:
Houston: 2-1-1—4
Hamilton: 2-1-0--3
Shots:
Houston: 12-8-14—34
Hamilton: 7-8-12—27
Goaltending:
Houston: Matt Hackett (27 shots, 24 saves)
Hamilton: Drew MacIntyre (34 shots, 30 saves)
Power Play:
Houston: 0-for-1
Hamilton: 2-for-3
Attendance: 6,117
Three Stars:
1. HOU – Jon DiSalvatore (1 goal, +2, 3 shots)
2. HOU – Casey Wellman (2 goals, +2, 3 shots)
3. HAM – Dustin Boyd (1 goal, 1 assist, 6 shots)
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Catholic Memorial Senior Defenseman Marc Hetnik Commits To Vernon:
2012 recruit will "prep" with BCHL powerhouse
2012 recruit Marc Hetnik, Jr., who is completing his senior year at Catholic Memorial High School, will follow the same path to BU as former Knights blueliner Garrett Noonan did, spending a season in the junior ranks with the Vernon Vipers of the BCHL.
Hetnik, who was CM’s captain and tallied four goals and 16 assists this season, earned Boston Globe All Scholastic, http://www.boston.com/sports/special/schools/201011_winter_all-scholastics/boys_hockey.html Boston Herald Dream Team and ESPN Boston First Team All Star honors. When he arrives on Commonwealth Avenue, Hetnik will join former Vipers Noonan, Sahir Gill and Ryan Santana.
Vernon, winner of two of the past three RBC Cup championships in Canada’s Junior A ranks, is rebuilding its defense. At least three starting blueliners from the past season’s team are departing.
Hetnik’s father Marc Hetnik, was a forward on BU’s 1978 national championship team and scored 92 points in four varsity seasons.
Mr. Excitement Goes Back To College:
Mr. Excitement goes back to college
by Viper staff | Added 2011-05-17
Mission accomplished – Malcolm Lyles has regained his confidence and has earned another NCAA athletic scholarship.
After languishing at the bottom end of the depth chart at Boston College for two years, the athletically gifted native of Miami Gardens, Florida left that university to play Junior “A” hockey in his last year of eligibility.
“Things weren’t working out for me at Boston College, and I was losing my edge, my self-belief. Basically, I had just one chance and that was to come to Vernon. My hockey career would have ended quietly at Boston College if I hadn’t come here. I didn’t even have a full set of equipment!”
Malcolm says that he has “learned a lot about hockey and about life in Vernon.” He adds that he feels “revitalized. I feel optimistic again, like maybe I can be a decent player.” A big part of that rebirth, he says, is “enjoying being around a great bunch of guys on this team.”
The 21-year-old says that “Playing and living in Vernon has been a real eye-opener. There’s a good atmosphere here, a positive vibe. It definitely starts with the owner and coaches and it flows into the dressing room.”
Indeed, he is staying around until early June, when his university classes will wrap up. Malcolm has been taking a full load of courses in order to satisfy requirements that will allow him to play NCAA hockey next year.
He has committed to the University of Massachusetts (Lowell) where he will play for the River Hawks during his Junior and Senior years. He feels that he will have a much better chance of being a regular on that squad because he’s “learned some of the finer points of playing defence from Willy and Ferns.”
This summer he will again train with Mike Boyle and Paul Vincent, who have previously helped develop Malcolm’s legendary strength and quickness. He says, “They are two of the best, and I’d be nowhere without them.”
He has worked hard this year, on and off the ice. He says that he has worked as hard before, but “Now I’m working smarter. Brains over brawn, you know?”
His speed, strength, and mobility have earned him several nicknames. Some refer to Malcolm’s own favourite moniker, Malcolm “Styles” Lyles. He has also been known as “Mr. Excitement,” “Action Jackson,” and “The Chocolate Rocket.”
Whatever the nickname, Malcolm Lyles has left a strong impression on Vernon hockey fans. He will not soon be forgotten.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)