More On the BCHL's Newest Franchise.....The Wenatchee Wild:

This is posted on Brian Wiebe's Blog:

Meet the Wild! BCHL Expands to Include Wenatchee as 17th League Franchise:

Monday, June 1, 2015

The BC Hockey League is bringing in another American based team, making official today the addition of the Wenatchee Wild for the 2015-16 season.

The Wild are leaving the Junior A Tier II North American Hockey League, where it played from 2008-15. Wenatchee hasn't had any alumni play in the NHL, but a number of former players have gone on to play NCAA hockey along with minor pro in the US and Europe. The BCHL didn't announce which division the Wild will join in 2015-16, but I've received confirmation it will play in the Mainland Division for this season and the situation will be reviewed prior to the 2016-17 season.

“We could not be more excited or humbled to be joining the BCHL,” said Wild GM and Head Coach Bliss Littler, a veteran of 22 seasons behind the bench in junior hockey. “Knowing the history and reputation of the league, be it sending players to play NCAA Division I hockey, NHL draft picks or the professionalism of the member teams and league have, we look forward to being a good league member on and off the ice.”

Team Owner and Governor David White and shootthepuck, inc. moved the Fresno Monsters to Wenatchee on May 31, 2013 after the previous Wild franchise was relocated to Hidalgo, Texas two weeks prior by former owner Bill Stewart. The  Town Toyota Centre board of directors signed a five year lease agreement with White in 2013. On-and-off, Wenatchee has been trying to gain acceptance into the BCHL since 2006, when ground broke on the Town Toyota Center.

The only other teams from the States in the BCHL was the Bellingham Blazers (1972-80) and the Bellingham Ice Hawks (1990-95).

“The BCHL is gaining a strong franchise in the Wenatchee Wild and we value the passion and professionalism they bring to our league,” said BCHL commissioner John Grisdale in a release. “The Wild will quickly develop rivalries with our existing franchises and I believe they will be a big draw in opposing buildings.”

The population of Wenatchee is 113,438, which makes it the fourth largest market in the league behind Surrey (468,251), Victoria (344,630) and Coquitlam (126,840). The Wild have averaged 3028 fans per game over the last seven seasons, which is more than any BCHL team did in 2014-15.

The Wild have played in the NAHL since 2008, advancing to the league's Robertson Cup Final twice. Wenatchee also finished first in its division in 2008-09, 2009-10, and 2012-13.

In an interview with Nanaimo play-by-play man Dan Marshall, BCHL Commissioner John Grisdale clarifies the import rules for Wenatchee. The Wild are allowed to have up to four Canadian players and up to four players from outside its branch, or catchment area. Players not considered imports for Wenatchee are those from Washington State, California, Colorado, and Missouri. Players from all other 46 states will be considered imports. Under BCHL rules, European players aren't allowed.

Based on last season's Wild roster with eligible returnees for 2015-16, the breakdown looks like this:

Washington, California, Colorado, Missouri: 6
Rest of USA: 3
Canada: 2
International: 1

With those types of numbers, Wenatchee won't need to make any significant roster adjustments to become compliant with the rules set forth by the BCHL.

Rangers Agree To Terms With Ex Viper Tambellini:

The New York Rangers agreed to terms with former Vernon Vipers forward Adam Tambellini on an entry-level contract.

Tambellini spent the past two seasons with the University of North Dakota & the WHL Calgary Hitmen.  In 71 regular season games with Calgary Tambellini recorded (47-goals-39-assists-86-points) was tenth in WHL scoring this season. In 16 playoff games Tambellini collected (13-goals-13-assists-26-points).

Tambellini attended the New York Rangers Prospect Development Camp in July was one of twenty players reassigned from the Rangers Training Camp in September. The Rangers reassigned Tambellini to the Western Hockey League Calgary Hitmen on September 24th 2014.

Tambellini left the University of North Dakota last season for the Western Hockey League joining the Calgary Hitmen in early January after being acquired in a trade with the Portland Winterhawks. Tambellini played a season and a half in Vernon (2011-13) before being traded to Surrey on January 10th 2013 along with future considerations (Michael Roberts) for Mason Blacklock & future considerations (Jordan Klimek and Demico Hannoun). In 91 regular season games with the Vipers Tambellini collected (49-goals-46-assists-95-points). Tambellini was drafted 64th overall in the 3rd Round by the New York Rangers at the 2013 NHL Draft.

Adam Tambellini's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=103529

This is posted on NHL.com

Rangers agree to terms with Tambellini on contract

Tuesday, 03.10.2015

The New York Rangers agreed to terms Tuesday with forward Adam Tambellini on an entry-level contract, the team announced. Terms were not disclosed.

Tambellini was selected by the Rangers in the third round (No. 65) of the 2013 NHL Draft.

Tambellini has scored 45 goals and has 79 points in 65 games this season for the Calgary Hitmen of the Western Hockey League. He ranks fourth in the WHL in goals and seventh in scoring. In 96 WHL games, Tambellini has 62 goals and 118 points.

His father, Steve Tambellini, played for 10 years in the NHL for five teams.

Grizzly Adams Sign Former Vernon Viper Scofield:

The EHC Wolfsburg Grizzly Adams have signed former Vernon Vipers forward Tyler Scofield.  EHC Wolfsburg Grizzly Adams are a professional ice hockey club of the German professional ice hockey league Deutsche Eishockey Liga. 

Scofield has spent his entire professional career in Europe playing with three different teams from 2009-2014 before signing with the Reign on December 4, 2014.  Scoffield was suspended by the Reign on January 27th 2015 after 18 games for leaving the team to play overseas.  Scofield collected (5-goals-9-assists-14-points).

Scofield started this season with the Moser Medical Graz 99ers, an Austrian ice hockey team from Graz, Styria that play in the Erste Bank Eishockey Liga hockey league. Scofield collected (5-goals-0-assists-5-points) in eight games with Graz 99ers before leaving the team on November 4th 2014.

Scofield spent the past four seasons in Austria with Klagenfurter Athletiksport. Klagenfurt AC is a professional ice hockey team from Klagenfurt, Carinthia, Austria that plays in the Austrian Erste Bank Hockey League. In 49 games last season Scofield collected (18-goals-10-assists-28-points).

Scofield played parts of two seasons in Vernon (2000-2002) before being traded to Prince George during the 2001-2002 season. The Vipers sent Scofield and Mark Nelson to the Spruce Kings in return for Rod Pelly, Dan Rossi & Josh Ciocco. In 79 games with the Vipers Scofield collected (21-goals-19-assists-40-points).

Tyler Scofield's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=34054

This is posted on the Grizzly Adams website:

Grizzlies pick Tyler Scofield

28/01/2015

Tyler Scofield to revive the offensive play of Grizzly Adams in the future.

The EHC Wolfsburg took the native Canadians Tyler Scofield a striker under contract and therefore awarded the last free license foreigners in this season. The 30-year-old striker replaced with immediate effect by the Ontario Reign of the East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) to Wolfsburg and receives a contract until the end of the season.

The Grizzly Adams reaction to the injury of striker Mark Voakes, Brent Aubin and Vincenz Mayer, whose downtime is continue to not pinpoint.

Tyler Scofield, who is 173 cm tall and 75 kg, has already gained experience in Europe. After his first stop at the Czech club HC Pilsen (46 games, eleven goals, six assists) the agile Links shooter was a total of four seasons for the Klagenfurt AC in the Erste Bank Eishockey Liga (EBEL) in use. With 74 goals and 67 templates of 192 games, he can boast a proud record. Moreover, who was born in the Canadian province of British Columbia striker in the season 2012/2013 scored the league most playoff goals and had so greatly affect Championship success of Klagenfurt. The current season began Scofield in Graz, but could not after a very successful tryout phase (eight games, five goals) agree on a collaboration with the club. For his previous employer, the Ontario Reign, he scored five goals in 18 games and prepared nine other matches before.

Tyler Scofield is the jersey number 15 receive at the Grizzly Adams Wolfsburg and expected in Wolfsburg on Thursday. Join his wife Andrea and his son Bruxly him are (14 months).

"Tyler fits his game system was very good to us. He is an eminently faster skater and has excellent technical equipment. Negotiations with him were completed in a very short time. This shows how much he has been waiting for this chance to be able to recommend again for further tasks. This is an opportunity we will give it to us and we are sure that he will revive our offensive game, "said sports director and managing director Karl-Heinz Fliegauf for Personnel.

Capitals Sign Viper Alumni Magowan:

The Erste Bank Hockey League (EBHL) Vienna Capitals have
signed former Vernon Vipers forward Kenny Magowan to a three day tryout. The Capitals are an Austrian professional ice hockey club that play in Vienna, Austria.  Magowan will join former Vipers Matt Zaba (2002-03) & Matt Watkins (2004-05) who also play for the Capitals.

Magowan left the DEL Frankfurt Lions back in early January.  The Lions are a professional men's ice hockey club from Frankfurt, Germany that play in the Deutsche Eishockey Liga. The Lions signed Magowan October 22nd 2014.  Magowan played in 17 games picked up (9-goals-8-assists-17-points). 

Magowan spent the past three seasons with the DEL Adler Mannheim Eagles. An ice hockey team of the Deutsche Eishockey Liga, the highest ice hockey league in Germany. The team is based in Mannheim, a city in the north of Baden-Württemberg. In 25 games last season with the Eagles Magowan collected (2-goals-7-assists-9-points).

Magowan spent three seasons (2004-2007) playing in the East Coast Hockey League & American Hockey League with six different teams (Albany, Augusta, Toledo, Philadelphia, Rochester & Bridgeport) before playing the last eight seasons in Germany with four different teams (SC Riessersee, Grizzly Adams Wolfsburg, Adler Mannheim & Lowen Frankfurt).

Magowan played two seasons in Vernon (1998-2000) played in 118 games with the Vipers collecting (46-goals-62-assists-108-points). Magowan was drafted by the New Jersey Devils 198th overall in Round 7 at the 2000 NHL Entry Draft.

Kenny Magowan's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=15121

This is posted on the Eishockey News website:

After Deschamps departure

Monday, 9th February, 2015

Vienna Capitals take ex-lion Ken Magowan under the magnifying glass

After the departure of the former Straubingers Nicolas Deschamps the Vienna Capitals from the Austrian EBEL with an other obligation want to bring additional depth in the cadre. The Viennese invited forward Ken Magowan to a 3-day Tryout - with it itself the Canadian with the eyes of the Capitals-Coaches Tom Pokel and Phil Horsky could recommend.

On Saturday and on Sunday liked the 33-year-old offensive player, on an obligation it is decided in the course of Monday and after the final training, informed the club. If the choice falls on Magowan, he would be already operational on Tuesday with the play in Villach: ' In the most intensive phase of the season we also need an internal fight for a place in the Lineup', according to Tom Pokel to the possible strengthening for the Caps. Magowan played in this season already in the DEL2 for the lions Frankfurt and, besides, came on 17 Scorer points (nine gates, eight presentations) in 17 plays. The former top forward of the DEL could not be convincing with Hessen still completely, which is why his contract was dissolved again.

BCHL Player Signing Opens June 1st:

This is posted on Brian Wiebe's Blog:

BCHL Player Signing Opens June 1st

Sunday, May 31, 2015

As of June 1st, teams under Hockey Canada's umbrella (including BCHL clubs) can officially sign players for the 2015-16 season. All of the player commitments or trades that teams have announced to this point aren't really official until the players involved sign a Hockey Canada Player Registration Certificate - which they can do as of June 1st. I'd expect we'll see details on trades made official.

Chiefs Name Former Vipers Captain Rampone New Assistant Coach:

The Kootenay International Junior Hockey League's (KIJHL) Kelowna Chiefs have named former Vernon Vipers defenceman-captain Lennie Rampone new Assistant Coach.  Rampone played two seasons in Vernon (1997-1999) after being acquired from the Quesnel Millionaires.  Early into the 1997-98 season the Millionaires traded Rampone to the Vipers for Brett Mekelburg.  Rampone played in 112 regular season games with the Vipers collecting (15-goals-46-assists-61-points).

Lennie Rampone's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?statsleague=WC&player=157066&team=&year=&status=&leagueid=&season=

This is posted on the Chiefs website:

Kelowna Chiefs Bolster Coaching Staff

June 3, 2015

The Kelowna Chiefs have beefed up their bench bosses with the addition of two high-calibre Assistant Coaches.

The Chiefs are excited to announce Ryan Jorde and Lennie Rampone, both local residents, to the coaching staff.

Jorde and Rampone will help Head Coach Jason Tansem in the quest to win a KIJHL Championship by increasing the focus on player development this year.

“We felt we needed to bolster our program even further in the areas of player skill development, power skating, and coaching experience,” said General Manager Grant Sheridan. “These two additions will support Tansem in all those areas and allow players to receive even more coaching to enhance their development.”

Born and raised in Kelowna, Jorde is no stranger to the rink. He spent the past four years with the Pursuit of Excellence Academy where he was both an Assistant Coach and Head Coach. He was also the Head Power Skating Instructor for POE Academy plus the Edge of Excellence Power Skating Schools.

Being drafted in the WHL Bantam Draft 25th overall in 1997 by the Tri-City Americans, Jorde went on to play parts of five years in the WHL and was eventually drafted and signed by the Buffalo Sabres in 2001. He spent 10 seasons in the AHL and IHL, plus two years in Europe.

His experience and passion working with young players in skill development and skating is a welcome addition to the Kelowna Chiefs.

Also born and raised in Kelowna, Rampone spent his childhood playing local minor hockey. He led the Vernon Vipers to the 1999 Royal Bank Cup National Championship title as their captain. Rampone then went on to play college hockey with St. Norbert College where he captained the school’s hockey team and earned a Bachelor of Business Administration. Since finishing his playing career, Rampone has coached in both Kelowna and Calgary.

Rampone and his wife Katie recently relocated back to Kelowna with their son Johan and daughter Jayde and he will continue to grow his Mortgage Brokerage business in the Central Okanagan. 

The Kelowna Chiefs would like to welcome both Jorde and Rampone to the coaching staff.

Wenatchee Wild About The BCHL:

This was in Wednesdays Morning Star Newspaper:

Wenatchee Wild about the BCHL
                    
Kevin Mitchell - Vernon Morning Star

Jun 2, 2015

Four years after trying to join the B.C. Hockey League, the Wenatchee Wild are in for the 2015-16 season.

The Wild were officially introduced Monday as the league’s 17th franchise at a media conference held in the central Washington city. The expansion fees are believed to be $1.2 million, meaning each established club will receive $75,000.

“The BCHL is gaining a strong franchise in the Wenatchee Wild and we value the passion and professionalism they bring to our league,” said BCHL commissioner John Grisdale.

“The Wild will quickly develop rivalries with our existing franchises and I believe they will be a big draw in opposing buildings.”

Wenatchee is situated in north-central Washington and is the largest city and county seat of Chelan County. The population within the city limits in 2010 was 31,925.

Duncan Wray, who is the BCHL chairman of the board, accompanied Grisdale to Wenatchee.

“They are so keen and so happy to be in the BCHL,” said Wray, who also heads the franchise committee. “I did a head count at the rink and there were at least 160 people there, including about 10, 12 members of the press. I was blown away by the interest.”

“They had a luncheon outside with pulled pork sandwiches and we answered questions for about two and a half hours. The biggest concern from the fans was, ‘Whaddya mean there’s no fighting?’ When we told them you were ejected for one fight, they weren’t too happy about that either.”

The BCHL voted several months ago to accept Wenatchee, but had to wait for final approval from parent hockey bodies like Hockey Canada.

The Wild had been a member the North American Hockey League (NAHL) since the 2008-09 season. They have had a winning record in each of their seven seasons of existence and this past season, they had six players on their roster committed to NCAA Div. I programs.

Playing out of the gorgeous 4,300-seat Town Toyota Center, complete with luxury boxes, the team averaged about 3,000 fans with the average adult ticket $20.

Head coach/GM Bliss Littler, a native of Minot, N.D., is entering his 22nd year as a Junior hockey coach, and is the winningest coach in USA Hockey history.

“We could not be more excited or humbled to be joining the BCHL,” said Littler. “Knowing the history and reputation of the league, be it sending players to play NCAA Division I hockey, NHL draft picks or the professionalism of the member teams and league have, we look forward to being a good league member on and off the ice.”

As a U.S.-based club, the Wild will be allowed to roster a maximum of four Canadian players. They had two Canadians last year when they finished 14th in the 24-team NAHL.

“Bliss is well-known in hockey circles and is a really nice guy,” said Wray. “He has coached in the USHL and was coach of Team USA in the World Hockey Challenge and all our coaches know him and like him.”

David White, owner of a fruit distribution company in Fresno, is the Wild owner.

He moved the team to Wenatchee in 2013 after running the Fresno Monsters of the NAHL.

Wray was involved in Wenatchee’s failed attempt to join the BCHL in 2012 under different ownership.

The Wild become the first U.S.-based franchise in the BCHL since the Bellingham Ice Hawks, who operated from 1990 to 1995.

“They will play in the Mainland Division for this year and then we will evaluate things next year,” said Wray “It was actually Prince George’s choice to stay in the Mainland.”

Geographically, the closest BCHL cities to Wenatchee are Surrey, Langley, Coquitlam and Chilliwack — all about four-hour drives (depending on border waits).

Prince George is a 12-hour drive from Wenatchee. While that may seem like a grind, it’s actually a short hop compared to some of the Wild’s road trips in the NAHL, where the Wild competed in the South Division with six teams in Texas. Their closest divisional rival was 2,750 kilometres away in Topeka, Kan.

The BCHL begin their three-day annual general meetings Thursday in Victoria.

Former Vernon Viper Zalewski Advances To Calder Cup Finals:

Former Vernon Vipers forward Mike Zalewski & the Utica Comets
advanced to the 2015 Calder Cup Finals Tuesday after a 2-0 victory over the Grand Rapids Griffins in Game 6 of the American Hockey League Western Conference Finals.  The Comets will play Game 1 of the Calder Cup Finals Saturday vs the Eastern Conference champion Manchester Monarchs.

Zalewski is in his first season with the Comets attended the Vancouver Canucks Prospects development camp in early July, was also at the Canucks Training camp this year got into some exhibition games with the Canucks before being sent down to the American Hockey League. In 55 regular season games with Utica Zalewski picked up (3-goals-9-assists-12-points).

Zalewski left his third year at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) last season signing with the Canucks on March 17th 2014. Zalewski skated in his first NHL practice with the Canucks on March 21, 2014 before making his NHL debut on Saturday April 12 2014 in a 5-2 loss in Edmonton. Zalewski picked up his first career NHL point (assist) in a 5-1 win over the visiting Calgary Flames the following night. Zalewski played two season's in Vernon (2010-2012) In 106 regular season games with the Vipers Zalewski collected (50-goals-54-assists-104-points).

Mike Zalewski's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=60363

This is posted on the AHL website:

Comets win Game 6, oust Griffins

June 3, 2015

Just 19 months after losing the first 10 games in franchise history, the Utica Comets are headed to the Calder Cup Finals.

Cory Conacher scored his third goal in the last four games and Jacob Markstrom made 21 saves as the Comets defeated Grand Rapids, 2-0, in Game 6 of the Western Conference Finals before another capacity crowd at the Utica Memorial Auditorium on Tuesday night.

The Comets will face the Eastern Conference champion Manchester Monarchs in the 2015 Calder Cup Finals, beginning Saturday night in Manchester, N.H.

Despite two power plays for each team, the first period of Game 6 was scoreless, the third time in the last four contests that Utica and Grand Rapids were 0-0 through 20 minutes.

Shots on goal in the opening frame were 9-6 in favor of the home team.

Early in the second, Cal O'Reilly carried the puck out of the Comets end, through center ice and into the offensive zone before dishing it off to Conacher, who snapped a one-timer from the top of the right-wing circle that beat Tom McCollum to open the scoring.

Conacher’s third goal of the series and fourth of the playoffs made it 1-0 at the 3:16 mark of the second and would prove to be the only offense the Comets would need. The assist for O’Reilly was his league-leading 15th of the postseason.

The Griffins had two more power plays in the second period, but only managed four shots on goal in the frame. Shots were 22-10 for the Comets after 40 minutes.

With about 4:30 remaining in regulation, Markstrom made a point-blank stop on Teemu Pulkkinen, who scored a league-leading 14 goals in the playoffs but just one in six games against Utica.

McCollum went off for an extra attacker with just over two minutes left, but the Griffins could not gain control of the puck and Alexandre Grenier hit the empty net from center ice with 1:14 to play, making it a 2-0 final.

Markstrom (11-7), who also had a shutout in the Comets’ series-clinching win over Oklahoma City in the conference semifinals, made 11 of his 21 saves in the third period and finished the series with a 1.91 goals-against average and a .933 save percentage in six games against a Griffins offense that had averaged 3.70 goals per game through the first two playoff rounds.

McCollum (9-6) finished with 27 saves on 28 shots in Game 6.

Grand Rapids, 7-for-21 on the power play through the first five games of the series, went 0-for-4 in Game 6. Utica was 0-for-3.

Attendance was 3,835, the 10th consecutive playoff sellout at the Aud.

Western Conference Finals – Series “N” (best-of-7)

1-Utica Comets vs. 2-Grand Rapids Griffins

Game 1 – Sun., May 24 – UTICA 2, Grand Rapids 1
Game 2 – Mon., May 25 – Grand Rapids 4, UTICA 2
Game 3 – Thu., May 28 – Utica 4, GRAND RAPIDS 1
Game 4 – Fri., May 29 – GRAND RAPIDS 3, Utica 2 (OT)
Game 5 – Sun., May 31 – Utica 3, GRAND RAPIDS 2
Game 6 – Tue., June 2 – UTICA 2, Grand Rapids 0

This is posted on the Comets website:

FINAL: Comets 2 vs Griffins 0 (Series: 4-2 UTI)

By Mark Caswell Jr.

June 2, 2015

History was made Tuesday night as the Utica Comets advanced to the Calder Cup Finals after they silenced the Grand Rapids Griffins 2-0 in Game 6 of the Western Conference Finals at the Utica Memorial Auditorium. In just their second year as a franchise, the Utica Comets have been awarded the Robert W. Clark trophy for being the 2015 Western Conference Champions.

Cory Conacher’s (1-0-1) game-winning second period goal ended up being all the Comets would need. From there the Griffins intensity couldn’t match up to the play that Jacob Markstrom provided in the crease with 21 saves as he recorded his second shutout of the postseason.

It took one whole period and a few minutes into the second period, but the Comets were fortunate to find their first of the night after a Cal O’Reilly pass met Conacher at the right circle. With a quick snap of the wrist, Conacher sniped the puck past McCollum on the short side to give the Comets the 1-0 lead at 3:16. Peter Andersson was credited with the secondary assist.

The Calder Cup Finals were all but a reality after the Griffins pulled their goaltender for the extra man with just a little less than two minutes left in the game. After multiple attempts to get the puck in the empty-net, Alexandre Grenier was finally able to put it away from center ice at 18:46 to give the Comets a two-goal lead with a little less than a minute left in regulation.

After taking a total of four penalties through the first two periods, the Comets withheld from taking any in the third to make their 2-0 all but certain.

The Calder Cup Finals begins this Saturday in Manchester, New Hampshire at 6 p.m. at the Verizon Wireless Arena.

Three Stars: 1. UTI – Jacob Markstrom (21 Saves, Win) 2. UTI – Cory Conacher (1 Goal) 3. UTI – Alexandre Grenier (1 Empty-Net Goal)

Wenatchee Wild Join The BCHL For 2015-16 Season:

This is posted on the BCHL website:

Wenatchee Wild join the BCHL for the 2015-16 season

Monday, June 1, 2015 - Submitted by BCHL Media

The Wenatchee Wild will join the BCHL as its 17th franchise starting with the 2015-16 season, the team and league announced Monday at a media conference held in the central Washington city.

“The BCHL is gaining a strong franchise in the Wenatchee Wild and we value the passion and professionalism they bring to our league,” said BCHL commissioner John Grisdale. “The Wild will quickly develop rivalries with our existing franchises and I believe they will be a big draw in opposing buildings.”

The Wild had been a member the North American Hockey League (NAHL) since the 2008-09 season. They have had a winning record in each of their seven seasons of existence and this past season, they had six players on their roster committed to NCAA Div. I programs. Playing out of Wenatchee’s Town Toyota Center, the team averages about 3,000 fans at home games.

Head coach Bliss Littler, a native of Minot, N.D., is entering his 22nd year as a Junior hockey coach.

“We could not be more excited or humbled to be joining the BCHL,” said Littler. “Knowing the history and reputation of the league, be it sending players to play NCAA Division I hockey, NHL draft picks or the professionalism of the member teams and league have, we look forward to being a good league member on and off the ice.”

As a U.S.-based club, the Wild will be allowed to roster a maximum of four Canadian players.

With today’s announcement, they become the first U.S.-based franchise in the BCHL since the Bellingham Ice Hawks, who operated from 1990 to 1995.

Former Vipers Defenceman Morgan Kicked Out Of Eagles Camp:

Former Vernon Vipers defenceman Nyjer Morgan was kicked out of the South Korean Hanwha Eagles preseason baseball camp. 

Morgan signed with the Eagles on December 12th 2014 spent parts of one season with the Cleveland Indians last year, signed a Minor League contract with the Indians on January 16th 2014 before earning a roster spot with the Major League Club on March 24th 2014. Morgan returned to the Majors after playing the 2013 season in Japan where he spent the season with the Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) Yokohama DeNa BayStars. After just playing in 15 games spending most of his time with the Tribe on the DL Morgan was released on August 5th 2014.

Morgan signed with the BayStars on January 23rd 2013 after spending the previous two seasons with the MLB Milwaukee Brewers before electing free agency, a day after the Brewers hastened his departure by outrighting him from the 40-man roster.

Morgan was drafted by the Pittsburgh Pirates in the 33rd round of the 2002 Major League Baseball Draft. On September 1st 2007 Morgan made his major league debut for the Pittsburgh Pirates against the Milwaukee Brewers as a late-season call-up. On June 30 2009 Morgan was traded to the Washington Nationals along with pitcher Sean Burnett in exchange for outfielder Lastings Milledge and pitcher Joel Hanrahan. On March 27 2011 Morgan was traded to the Milwaukee Brewers in exchange for prospect Cutter Dykstra (son of baseball player Lenny Dykstra). Morgan played for three MLB teams, Milwaukee, Pittsburgh and Washington before heading to Japan. Morgan attended the Vernon Vipers Training camp in 1996-97. Morgan played as an affiliated player "AP" as a 16 year old with the Vipers during the (1996-1997) season while playing with the KIJHL North Okanagan Kings.

Nyjer Morgan's Player Profile:

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

This was posted on the Yonhap News website:

Ex-big leaguer Morgan booted from Hanwha Eagles' camp for 2nd time

2015/02/24

URUMA, Japan, Feb. 24 (Yonhap) -- Former major league outfielder Nyjer Morgan was kicked out of the Hanwha Eagles' preseason camp for the second time on Tuesday.

The Korea Baseball Organization (KBO) club, currently training here in Japan, told Morgan to report to the team's minor league camp in Kochi, Japan.

Morgan, who has 598 big league games under his belt, was first asked to leave the camp on Feb. 2, a week after the Eagles began training. Manager Kim Sung-keun, an old-school type long famous for his tough-love approach, said at the time he wasn't pleased with Morgan's preparation.

The outfielder trained with the Eagles' minor league squad in South Korea for 18 days and rejoined the Eagles last Friday here in Okinawa.

In a practice game on Saturday against another KBO club, the Samsung Lions, Morgan was 0-for-2 and was hit by a pitch. After the game, Kim said he didn't know what to do with Morgan.

Morgan was benched for the Eagles' next practice game on Sunday against the Kia Tigers and was sent packing on Tuesday.

Morgan, 34, was one of the Eagles' major offseason acquisitions, with hopes he can at least duplicate production of the now-departed Felix Pie, who batted .326 with 17 homers and 92 RBIs in 119 games as the team's primary center fielder.

Morgan is a career .282 hitter with 120 steals in the majors. He spent the 2013 season with the Yokohama DeNA BayStars in Japan, batting .294 with 11 home runs and 50 RBIs in 108 games. Morgan returned to the majors with the Cleveland Indians in 2014 but was limited to 15 games.

Senators Sign Viper Alumni Hammond To Three-Year One-Way Contract:

The Ottawa Senators have signed former Vernon Vipers goaltender Andrew Hammond who was set to become an unrestricted free agent July 1 2015.

Hammond attended the Ottawa Senators development camp in July before being released from the Sens Training camp was sent down to the AHL. Hammond was in his second season with the Binghamton Senators before being recalled from the American Hockey League on January 29th 2015 where he would finish the remainder of the season in the NHL with the Senators.

Hammond made his first career NHL start February 18th 2015 vs the Montreal Canadians, recorded 42 saves in a 4-2 win over the Habs for his first career NHL victory.

After four seasons with Bowling Green University Hammond signed his first pro contract with the Ottawa Senators on March 20th 2013. Hammond played last year as a rookie with the American Hockey League (AHL) Binghamton Senators. In 48 games with Binghamton Hammond went 25-19-3 with one shutout and a 2.81 GAA.

Hammond made his NHL debut last season was called up to the Ottawa Senators on February 27th 2014 vs the Detroit Red Wings. Hammond was the backup for Senators starting goaltender Robin Lehner that night but made his NHL debut after Lehner was pulled late in the 2nd period giving up six goals on fifteen Detroit shots. Hammond would finish the game playing just over thirty four minutes stopping all eleven Red Wing shots in a 6-1 loss to Detroit. Hammond attended the Chicago Blackhawks 2012 development camp and attended the Ottawa Senators 2013 development camp playing in a few exhibition games with the Senators last season. (no stats)

Hammond played parts of two years in Vernon (2007-2009) after coming over in a trade with the Surrey Eagles during the 2007-08 season. In 52 regular season games with the Vipers Hammond posted a (33-15-1) record recording 6 shutouts.

Andrew Hammond's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=38007

This is posted on the Senators website:

News Release: Senators agree to terms with goaltender Andrew Hammond on a three-year contract extension

Wednesday, 05.20.2015

OTTAWA – The Ottawa Senators (@Senators) announced today the club has agreed to terms with goaltender Andrew Hammond on a three-year contract extension which will run through the end of the 2017-18 National Hockey League season. The average annual value of the contract is $1.35 million ($1.2M, $1.35M, $1.5M).

Hammond, 27, earned a record of 20-1-2 in 24 games with the Senators last season, posting a 1.79 goals-against average and a .941 save percentage, while recording three shutout victories.

This was in the Ottawa Citizen Newspaper:

Senators sign Andrew Hammond to three-year one-way contract

Peter Robb, Ottawa Citizen

Published on: May 20, 2015

One of the NHL’s feel-good stories of the past season had a happy ending Wednesday morning as Andrew Hammond got what he wanted from the Ottawa Senators — a three-year deal to play for the NHL team in the city he and his wife have grown to love.

The man known as the Hamburglar is now looking forward to the upcoming season and competition for a spot in the net.

The Hammond contract carries an average annual cap hit of $1.35 million ($1.2M, $1.35M, $1.5M) for a total of $4.05 million. The deal is a one-way contract meaning he will be staying in the National Hockey League next season. The B.C. native was set to become an unrestricted free agent July 1.

One thing the deal does not have is a “no move” clause meaning Hammond could be traded at the club’s discretion. He says there were no job guarantees offered by the club.

But all that is for another day. Right now, Hammond is basking in a reward for what was a truly remarkable debut on the NHL stage and settling into his summer home in Grosse Pointe, Michigan.

Hammond’s critical role in the team’s historic run to the 2014-15 playoffs made him a fan favourite and almost a must sign. During that improbable journey, the 27-year-old’s record was 20-1-2 in 24 games. He posted a 1.79 goals-against average and a .941 save percentage with three shutouts. He lost two games in the playoffs.

Hammond took part in a conference call with Ottawa media telling reporters it was a personal priority to stay in Ottawa.

“My wife and I really loved Ottawa. It was a place that we wanted to be.”

Most of the negotiations were handled by Pierre Dorion, the team’s assistant general manager, Hammond said, and once Dorion returned from the world championships this past weekend, where Canada won a gold medal, the contract came together quickly — in fact, in the last two days.

“The three-year deal was pretty important to me,” Hammond says, “just to give me some security. And start moving forward to build a career.”

Dorion told reporters that because of Hammond’s record during the stretch run, the team felt comfortable signing Hammond, despite the relatively short sample size of 26 games.

“Andrew came in and under difficult conditions showed he was an NHL goalie through his ability to win pretty much every game he played in. He showed he could win under pressure and win big games under pressure. We thought we should reward him with an NHL contract.

“We feel he can push our other two goalies. We don’t get into the playoffs without Andrew

Hammond.”

The idea of a one-way deal was important as well and Hammond says he is happy Ottawa felt that way too.

Reflecting back on the incredible run, the B.C. native says he tried to keep it in perspective and took it one day at a time at the time.

“The great thing about sports is that anything can happen and I was given a chance to hit the refresh button when I was called up.”

Typically thoughtful and always seemingly ready to learn, Hammond said he did not play his best during the playoff series against Montreal, but nor did he play his worst.

“I think I got caught up in the emotion of the games in Montreal and it took away from my game a little bit. … I was having too much fun playing and that made some of my movements speed up. Ultimately as a goaltender, that will open up holes.”

He knows there are now more expectations of him.

“I am aware that the expectations are obviously going to change, but I’ve proven myself over the past few months here that I can play at this level and I am more than willing to learn every day. You go in just trying to play as many games as you can. No matter what happens you have to keep training and practising as if you are the No. 2 guy.”

Hammond praised Senators goalie coach Rick Wamsley for helping him to improve his technique and he says he intends to build on those improvements.

The signing leaves the team with three goaltenders with NHL contracts:

• Craig Anderson, the team’s No. 1 with three years left on his latest contract;

• Robin Lehner, who is also under contract for two more years and is working out and expected in camp in the fall free of concussion symptoms;

• And now Hammond.

As well the team signed a highly rated U.S. college free agent this spring. Matt O’Connor will report to AHL Binghamton next season on a two-year entry-level contract worth $925,000 per year plus bonuses, the maximum for an entry-level player. The club also has Chris Driedger, who played well in Binghamton after Hammond moved to Ottawa, under contract. The team has also drafted Marcus Hogberg, who is a 20-year-old, playing in the Swedish Elite League.

Dorion says a team can never have too much talent in net. “We feel we have an abundance of talent at that position.”

For Hammond’s part, he says he gets along well with Craig Anderson and Robin Lehner.

“They were both extremely supportive of me the more I played; they are both just quality guys. I don’t know what will happen here but we are all professionals and you learn that this is part of the game.”

Dorion says the team will now look at trading one of their three NHL goalies.

“We could go into training camp with three. We haven’t started to explore the trade market yet.”

Dorion said the team has been in talks with its bevy of pending free agents. He said he has permission to talk to Erik Condra’s representatives, who will be unrestricted July 1. They are still looking at making him an offer, but much will depend on what happens with other contracts.

He said there have been a range of contacts with the agents for several restricted free agents including Mike Hoffman, J.G Pageau, Mark Stone, Alex Chiasson and Mika Zibanejad. He says the team is prepared to go to arbitration if it comes to that but hopes to have all RFAs signed and in camp by Sept. 15.

Former Viper All-Star Gare Wont Be Back With Lions:

It sounds like former Vernon Vipers forward Lanny Gare wont be back next season with the Deutsche Eishockey Liga (DEL) Frankfurt Lions.  The Lions are a professional men's ice hockey club from Frankfurt, Germany that play in the Deutsche Eishockey Liga hockey league.   

Gare has played the past three seasons with the Lions playing in 96 games.  In 46 games this season Gare collected (13-goals-24-assists-37-points).

After four years with the University of New Hampshire Gare played three seasons with five different teams in the UHL, AHL & ECHL before playing the past ten seasons in Germany & Denmark.

Gare played two years with the Vipers (1997-1999). In 117 games with the Vipers Gare collected (67-goals-107-assists-174-points) & still holds the Vipers record for most points in a single season with 111 pts during the 1998-99 season.

Lanny Gare's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=12618

This is posted on the Lions website:

Lions say goodbye in the summer break

19th April, 2015

800 fans by the discharge of the team. The first personnel decisions announces.

Frankfurt (TS) - The team of the lions Frankfurt has said goodbye on the Sunday noon with great mood before about 800 fans in the pickepackevollen festival hall to Eddy Hausmann on the Dippemess in the summer break.

Rüdiger took over at first the word and looked back with pride at the tramped season:, the lions Frankfurt are limited again a steady size in the German hockey. Now from the small and tender plant a small small tree has become again. '

Also the companion Stefan Krämer and Andreas Stracke were contented of high and emphasized once again the spectator's record which the Frankfurters put up in this season.

The coach's team around Tim Kehler and Chris Stanley rang in the team's presentation. Lion's trainer Kehler promised with the fact that in the coming season even harder and more body-stressed hockey is played in Frankfurt.

Afterwards the players were called in two groups on the stage. Besides, quite a lot of anecdote from a long season was revealed and the Gamer was handed over to the happy winners of the loose drawing. For everything which were not on site the ticket numbers on the lion's web page are published during the coming days over again.

However, there was also less gratifying news. Thus it was announced that Hungarian Márton Vas, Thomas Ziolkowski and Lanny Gare done accumulate in the next season no more for the lions. Accordingly the fans and also the team thanked the players for your achievements in the lion's dress.

At the end Clarke Breitkreuz received the price of the choice to the player of the March from hockey news editor Frank Gantert. The final celebration was concluded with a group picture of all present fans and the team.

The lions Frankfurt wish a restful summer break all fans and the team.

And thinks of protecting You now already your long-term map for the season 2015/16 in the lion ticket shop.

The DEL2 starts on the 11th September, 2015 in the new playing time. At the beginning of August the lion's herd will gather again in Frankfurt. Till then!

Ex Viper Kane Advances To Kelly Cup Finals:

Former Vernon Vipers forward Kory Kane &
the East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) South Carolina Stingrays clinched the 2015 ECHL Eastern Conference Championship Wednesday after a 1-0 victory over the Toledo Walleye in Game 7 of the Eastern Conference Finals earning a berth into the 2015 Kelly Cup Finals.

Kane attended the Boston Bruins Training camp in October before being released-sent down to the American Hockey League (AHL) Providence Bruins.  Kane spent most of this season with the Bruins played in 55 games collecting (7-goals-12-assists-19-points) was re-assigned to the ECHL playing in six games with the Stingrays picking up (2-goals-2-assists-4-points).

Kane finished four years at Ferris State University (2010-2014) before signing a PTO (player tryout) contract with the American Hockey League (AHL) Providence Bruins on April, 7th 2014. In 4 games last season with the Bruins Kane registered (0-goals-1-assist-1-point). Kane played two years in Vernon (2008-2010) In 119 regular season games with the Vipers Kane collected (42-goals-55-assists-97-points).

Cory Kane's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=38016

This is posted on the Stingrays website:

Stingrays Head to Kelly Cup Finals with Triple Overtime Thriller in Game 7; Finals Schedule Released

May 28th 2015

By: Joseph Zakrzewski

Toledo, OH – Forward Joe Devin scored the game-winning goal 5:35 into triple overtime and goaltender Jeff Jakaitis earned a 44-save shutout victory to catapult the South Carolina Stingrays (12-8) into the Kelly Cup Finals with a 1-0 victory over the Toledo Walleye (11-10) in Game 7 of the Eastern Conference Finals at Huntington Center Wednesday night. The Stingrays win the best-of-seven series 4-3 and will meet the Allen Americans in the 2015 Kelly Cup Finals starting Sunday in Allen, Texas.

The Walleye outshot the Stingrays 9-4 in the first period of action, but the Stingrays built momentum with several good shifts working the puck below the goal line and wearing down the Walleye defense around netminder Jeff Lerg (L, 41 saves on 42 shots). The Stingrays turned 11 shots on Lerg in the middle frame and Jakaitis (W, 44 saves on 44 shots) stopped all six Walleye chances including a Justin Mercier breakaway to keep the contest scoreless through two periods.

The Stingrays ramped up the pressured in the third period, earning a 10-4 shot advantage, but could not slip the puck past Lerg. In overtime, both sides exchanged rushes as Toledo rifled a period-high 16 shots on net, but Jakaitis received help from his posts twice and made several acrobatic saves to keep the game scoreless. The two sides generated 10 combined shots in the second overtime to force a third segment. After Walleye forward Martin Frk missed an open net early the frame, the Stingrays raced down the ice and forward Joe Devin caught a drop pass from forward Caleb Herbert and beat Lerg under the blocker for the game-winning goal at 5:35. For Devin, the marker is his second Game 7 game-winning tally (Game 7 vs. Reading). Defenseman Wade Epp received the second assist. The Stingrays finished the game 0-for-3 on the power play while the Walleye went 0-for-1.

The Stingrays meet the Allen Americans in the 2015 Kelly Cup Finals with Game 1 on Sunday, May 31 at 8:05 p.m. ET at the Allen Even Center in Allen Texas. The Stingrays and Americans collide in a 3-3-1 format and host the Americans for Game 4 on Sunday, June 7 at 7:05 p.m. at the North Charleston Coliseum. If necessary, Game 5 is Tuesday, June 9 at 7:05 and Game 6 is Wednesday, June 10 at the Coliseum.

2015 Kelly Cup Finals Schedule:

Game 1 – Sunday, May 31 at 4:05 p.m. CT at Allen Event Center in Allen, Texas
Game 2 – Tuesday, June 2 at 7:05 p.m. CT at Allen Event Center in Allen, Texas
Game 3 – Wednesday, June 3 at 7:05 p.m. CT at Allen Event Center in Allen, Texas
Game 4 – Sunday, June 7 at 7:05 p.m. ET at North Charleston Coliseum in North Charleston, S.C.
Game 5 – Tuesday, June 9 at 7:05 p.m. ET at North Charleston Coliseum in North Charleston, S.C. *
Game 6 – Wednesday, June 10 at 7:05 p.m. ET at North Charleston Coliseum in North Charleston, S.C. *
Game 7 – Sunday, June 14 at 4:05 p.m. CT at Allen Event Center in Allen, Texas *
* – If Necessary

Do not miss a second of the action! 2015-16 Stingrays Ticket Plans are on sale NOW! Save money off of box receive office prices and great benefits like FREE parking, Buddy Passes, discounts off of merchandise, advanced ticket purchases to North Charleston Coliseum and Performing Arts Center events and more! Click here to see all the benefits and options!

Become a “Fan” of the Stingrays on Facebook at Facebook.com/SCStingraysHockey and join the conversation on Twitter at Twitter.com/SCStingrays . Stingrays Hockey – Wanna Go?

Tigers Sign Former Viper Forward Bayda:

The Deutsche Eishockey Liga (DEL) Straubing Tigers have
signed former Vernon Vipers forward Ryan Bayda. The Tigers are a professional men's ice hockey team, based in Straubing, Germany, which plays in the Deutsche Eishockey Liga.

Bayda spent the past two seasons with the Deutsche Eishockey Liga (DEL) Augsburger Panthers before signing with the Tigers in March.  In just six games this season with the Panthers Bayda collected (4-goals-6-assists-10-points).

After playing three years at the University of North Dakota Bayda played the following eight seasons split between the American Hockey League & NHL.  Since the 2010-11 season Bayda has played the past six seasons in Germany with three different teams.

Bayda played one season in Vernon (1998-99) playing in 45 games with the Vipers collecting (24-goals-58-assists-82-points). Bayda was drafted 80th overall in Round 3 of the 2000 NHL Entry Draft by the Carolina Huricanes. Bayda played parts of five seasons with the Huricanes before signing with the Pittsburgh Penguins but played the 2009-10 season with the Penguins farm club the AHL Wilkes-Barre Scranton Penguins.

Ryan Bayda's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=10253

This is posted on the Tigers website:

DEL2 top defender Edwards comes from castle Ravens – tiger get attacker Connolly and Bayda as well as defender Jobke from Augsburg

Thursday, 26th March, 2015

Four new actors have taken for the coming season DEL 2015/16 Straubing of tiger under contract. From the Augsburg panthers defender Colton Jobke as well as the attackers Ryan Bayda and Mike Connolly change to the powder tower.

With Maury Edwards of the castle Ravens Towerstars (DEL2) have secure the tiger, besides, the top defender of the second-highest play class „ We are right in the middle in the construction of the team for 2015/16 “, according to Dunham to the topical situation with the tiger. 28-year-old Canadian Maury Edwards was chosen by the coaches and managers of the DEL2 to the best defender of the season 2014/15. The offensive defender collected for the castle Ravens Towerstars 51 Scorer points (!) in 51 parts, under it 15 hits. „ Maury have observed Larry and I during the last two years of the more often. He is läuferisch top and we are persuaded that he can also assert himself in the DEL “, according to Jason Dunham, sporty leader of the tiger. Already in 2013/14 Edwards with 67 Scorer points became a talking point in 71 parts for Kaufbeuren ESV in the DEL2.

The adaptably useable Canadian plays since 2010 in the DEL.Nachdem attacker Ryan Bayda (34) in the playing time in 2013/14 another 41 Scorer points under Larry Mitchell for the panthers collected, threw him in the tramped season a heavy elbow injury from the road. Bayda could graduate from only six plays in which he marked strong four hits and six presentations. In the coming season the experienced left shooter wants to attack again fully. Bayda comes with the experience of 194 NHL-and 358 AHL parts to Straubing.

Last the 25-year-old Mike Connolly was likewise unlucky. After a prominent season 2013/14 with 42Scorer points in 52 plays a cruciate ligament injury from braked him in the tramped playing time. After an OP the weasel-agile attacker who might already likewise accumulate twice in the NHL should overshoot in 2015/16 again so properly.

„ Without doubt Bayda as well as Connolly will bring us in the coming season forwards. They had both extreme injury bad luck the last year. Under Larry Mitchell they were in Augsburg before, nevertheless, achievement bearers “, explains Jason Dunham, sporty leader of the tiger.

Defender Colton Jobke (22) came only in the course of the playing time in 2014/15 to the Augsburg panthers to the DEL. Indeed, the Youngster with German passport was got to Mitchells time with the Swabians to Europe, nevertheless, the change of the German Canadian in the DEL was already threaded under Mitchell in last summer. „ Colton is a young defender with German passport which fits perfectly in our draft “, according to Dunham.

After the obligation of forward Sean O'Connor five new entries have taken the tiger therefore already for the next playing time under contract.

Ice Name Former Viper Pierce New Head Coach-GM:

The Western Hockey League (WHL) Kootaney Ice have named former Vernon Vipers forward Luke Pierce their new head Coach-GM.

Pierce spent six seasons as Head Coach-GM of the Merritt Centennials. Pierce was named BCHL Interior Conference Coach of the year in 2013 played his final year of Junior hockey in Vernon (2003-04) after being aquired from the Merritt Centennials for future considerations on June, 10th 2003. In 53 regular season games with the Vipers Pierce collected (7-goals-21-assists-28-points).

Luke Pierce's Player-Coaches Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=136883


This is posted on the BCHL website:

2013 BCHL coach of the year Pierce takes WHL job with Kootenay

Tuesday, May 26, 2015 - Submitted by BCHL Media

The BCHL is congratulating now-former Merritt Centennials head coach and general manager Luke Pierce on accepting a position as head coach of the WHL's Kootenay Ice.

Pierce, 31, joined the Centennials for the 2009-10 season as an assistant but was promoted to the head coach/GM role in November of that year. The hometown Merritt native spent the rest of that season, and the subsequent five campaigns, running the Cents. His teams qualified for the postseason each year he was with the club.

“I feel very fortunate to have been the head coach of my hometown team and want to thank all of the Centennials fans, volunteers and partners for their support,” said Pierce. “I especially want to thank (Centennials director of hockey operations) Brian Barrett for his role in helping me grow as a coach and for his constant belief in me. I consider him a great friend and an invaluable mentor.

“I also want to thank all my previous players in Merritt who have dedicated themselves to helping grow the program and pushing me to be a better coach. I wish them all the best in their future endeavours.”

Pierce was named BCHL Coach of the Year in 2013 and he was an assistant coach with Team Canada West at the 2014 World Junior A Challenge.

“The BCHL is all about developing players and coaches for other opportunities in hockey,” said BCHL commissioner John Grisdale. “I’m proud of the quality of coaches we have in our league and Luke is one that has shown he is deserving of this chance. I wish Luke, his wife Amy and their three boys all the best as they make this transition.”

As a player, Pierce spent three seasons in the BCHL – two with Merritt and another with the Vernon Vipers. He went on to a five-year university hockey career at Royal Military College in Kingston, Ont.

This is posted on the Ice website:

ICE Name New Head Coach

May 26, 2015

Cranbrook, BC --  Jeff Chynoweth, General Manager of the Kootenay ICE Hockey Club, today announced the Club has hired Luke Pierce as the seventh Head Coach in franchise history. Pierce, who has signed a three-year contract, replaces Ryan McGill who in April mutually agreed to part ways with the Club when his contract expires on June 30, 2015.

“Luke is one of the bright young coaches coming through the system. He has coached in Merritt which is very similar to Cranbrook in terms of his teams achieving on-ice success despite the obstacles faced as a small market team. In speaking with numerous hockey people throughout this process there was one common theme: his teams come to play and work hard every night, while most importantly getting better as the season progresses. Patience and teaching will definitely be needed as we turn over the majority of our roster and ice one of the youngest teams in the WHL this year,” continued Chynoweth.

“This is a great opportunity for my family and I. Kootenay has been one of the most successful WHL franchises for the past 17 years. I intend on keeping the strong culture and tradition going despite the expected roster turnover. Hard work gives you a chance to win and we definitely will be a team that competes each and every game,” commented Luke Pierce.

Luke Pierce has been the General Manager / Head Coach of the Merritt Centennials of the British Columbia Hockey League since November 2009. During his time behind the bench his teams posted a 168-111-21 regular season record and qualified for the playoffs all six years. Pierce was named the BCHL Interior Conference Coach of the Year in 2012-2013 and was an Assistant Coach for Team Canada West at the 2014 World Junior A Challenge. Luke attended the Royal Military College of Canada in Kingston, Ontario from 2004-2009. He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts with a Psychology Major and Business Minor. He also earned a Master’s Degree of Business Administration with a concentration in Strategic Management.

Luke Pierce is a 31-year-old native of Merritt, BC. He and his wife Amy are the parents of three boys – William (6), Bennett (3) and Austin (1).

Penguins Sign Ex Vernon Viper Gill:

The American Hockey League (AHL) Wilkes-Barre/Scranton
Penguins have signed former Vernon Vipers forward Sahir Gill to a professional tryout agreement (PTO).

Gill finished his second season with the East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) Wheeling Nailers also had stints with the American Hockey League Hamilton Bulldogs & Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins.  Gill & the Nailers were eliminated in the opening round of the ECHL playoffs.  In 26 games this season with the Nailers Gill recorded (9-goals-20-assists-29-points).  In 12 games this season with the Penguins Gill has posted (1-goal-2-assists-3-points).

Gill attended the Montreal Canadians Training camp this season was released before signing with the AHL Hamilton Bulldogs on October 10th 2014. Gill was released after going pointless in one game with Hamilton returned to the Nailers where he played last season before signing a professional tryout agreement (PTO) with the AHL Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins. Gill played in 12 games with the Penguins collecting (1-goal-2-assists-3-points) before being released January 16, 2015. Gill signed a professional tryout agreement (PTO) on January 17th 2015 with the Hamilton Bulldogs played in 24 games collecting (2-goals-2-assists-4-points) was released on March 25th 2015 before returning to Wheeling to finish the season.

Gill played last year with the ECHL Wheeling Nailers. Gill finished sixth in rookie scoring and lead the team in scoring collecting (13-goals-41-assists-54-points). Gill was suppose to enter his fourth and final season at Boston University last season but left school signing with the Nailers early in the season. Gill played parts of two seasons in Vernon (2008-2010). Gill left the Vipers in July of 2009 for the United States Hockey League (USHL) Chicago Steel but after just 26 games would return to Vernon in mid January of 2010. In 71 regular season games with the Vipers Gill recorded (21-goals-30-assists-42-points).

Sahir Gill's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=38017

This is posted on the Penguins website:

PENGUINS ADD FOUR FROM WHEELING

WILKES-BARRE, Pa. – The Pittsburgh Penguins have assigned goaltender Eric Hartzell and defenseman Harrison Ruopp to the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins from the Wheeling Nailers (ECHL), it was announced today.  In addition, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton has recalled defenseman Clark Seymour from loan to Wheeling.

Hartzell went 2-0-0 with a 2.92 goals against average and a .882 save percentage in two appearances this season for Wilkes-Barre/Scranton.  Currently in his second season of professional hockey, the 25-year-old also compiled a record of 17-14-1 for the Nailers, while recording a 2.75 GAA, a .914 save percentage and one shutout.  In five games during the 2015 Kelly Cup Playoffs, Hartzell was 2-2-1 with a 2.36 GAA and a .924 save percentage.

Ruopp, a second-year pro, registered one assist and 58 penalty minutes over 30 games this season with the Nailers, while appearing in seven contests for Wilkes-Barre/Scranton.   The 22-year-old from Zehner, Saskatchewan also played in four games for Wheeling during the team’s North Division Semifinal series versus Toledo.

Seymour, 21, notched one goal and 72 penalty minutes over 54 games with Wheeling while ranking first among team defensemen with 14 assists.  A first-year professional hailing from Brockville, Ontario, Seymour appeared in 12 contests for the Penguins, posting one assist.  He also skated in two postseason matches with the Nailers.

In a separate transaction, the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins have signed forward Sahir Gill to a professional tryout agreement (PTO).

Gill joins the Penguins for the second time this season.  Signed to a PTO on Dec. 4, 2014, Gill played in 12 games for Wilkes-Barre/Scranton, collecting one goal and two assists.  He also dressed for 25 games with the Hamilton Bulldogs (AHL), registering two goals, two assists and six penalty minutes.

Gill, 23, averaged more than a point per game during the 2014-15 season the Nailers, amassing nine goals and 20 assists in 26 contests.  Gill was third on the team during the playoffs with six points (4G-2A) in seven games.

The Penguins are in the Calder Cup Playoffs for the 13th consecutive year – the longest active streak in the AHL – and begin their Eastern Conference Semifinal series versus the Manchester Monarchs on Wednesday, May 6 at 7:00 p.m.

Tickets for Penguins Playoff Home Games C (Saturday, May 9) and D (Monday, May 11) are available now by calling 570-208-7367 or going online to TicketMaster.com.

Viper Alumni Bigos Happy Playing At Home:

Here is an article I found on former Vernon Vipers defenceman Kyle Bigos.

Bigos is in his second season with the East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) Ontario Reign.  Bigos & the Reign have a 3-2 series lead on the Allen Americans in the best of seven series in the ECHL Western Conference Finals with Game 6 going Tuesday.

Bigos attended the San Jose Sharks Training camp in October before being released-assigned to the American Hockey League. Bigos started the season in Worcester after signing with the Worcester Sharks on September, 8th 2014 before being assigned to Ontario on October 12th 2014. The Reign assigned Bigos to Worcester on January 29th 2015. In three games this season with the Sharks Bigos had just one assist.  Bigos returned to the Reign on February 20, 2015 after the Sharks assigned him back to the ECHL.  In 43 games this season with the Reign Bigos has (1-goal-12-assists-13-points).

Bigos spent last season with three different teams (San Francisco, Ontario & Worcester). Bigos signed his first semi-pro contract with the Worcester Sharks on July, 16th 2013. Bigos attended the San Jose Sharks Training Camp last year before being released back to Worcester where he was then assigned to the East Coast Hockey League San Francisco Bulls on October, 1st 2013. In 40 games with the Bulls Bigos collected (2-goals-4-assists-6-points) before the team ceased operations in late January. Bigos become an unrestricted free agent signed with East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) Ontario Reign playing in 19 games collected (1-goal-4-assists-5-points). Bigos was called up to the AHL played in five games with the Worcester Sharks registered one assist before being sent back down to the ECHL.

Bigos played two seasons in Vernon (2007-2009) collecting (10-goals-40-assists-50-points) in 166 regular season games with the Vipers. Bigos an assistant captain in his second and final season with the Vipers was drafted 99th overall by the NHL Edmonton Oilers in the 4th round of the 2009 NHL Draft. Bigos attended the Oilers Developement Camp two out of the last three years. The Edmonton Oilers traded Bigos to San Jose for Lee Moffie on July 7th 2013.

Kyle Bigos's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=38020

This is in the Daily Bulletin Newspaper:

Kyle Bigos happy playing at home with Ontario Reign hockey team

By Bill Norris, Correspondent

05/15/15

When Kyle Bigos left Upland in 2006 to pursue his dreams of playing hockey, he never imagined he’d have the chance to play professionally in front of his friends and family.

“When I left when I was 15, I didn’t think I’d ever really be back,” Bigos said Wednesday. “But a year and a half has really been a blessing, and I’ve been really grateful for every moment.”

The 26-year-old defenseman is in his second season with the Ontario Reign, after the San Jose Sharks assigned him to Ontario after the San Francisco Bulls folded midseason last year.

The second-year pro was returned to Ontario for the 2014-15 season, and has become a key contributor for the Reign as the team gets ready to play in the ECHL Western Conference Finals for the first time in team history.

ECHL playoffs

WESTERN CONFERENCE FINALS

Ontario Reign vs. Allen Americans

Game 1: Reign at Allen, Sunday, 2:05 p.m.
Game 2: Reign at Allen, Monday, 5:05 p.m.
Game 3: Allen at Reign, Thursday, 7 p.m.
Game 4: Allen at Reign, May 23, 6 p.m.
*Game 5: Allen at Reign, May 24, 6 p.m.
*Game 6: Reign at Allen, May 26, 5:05 p.m.
*Game 7: Reign at Allen, May 27, 5:05 p.m.
* — if necessary

And getting the chance to do it at home has been an extra bonus for the 6-foot-5 Bigos.

“It’s good. I know a lot of my family hasn’t really seen me play since 15,” he said. “Seeing them last year for the first time, and rebuilding the connections with family has been a powerful thing.”

Having that hometown connection is something that even coach Jason Christie says has to help his players’ comfort level.

“I think it’s good,” Christie said. “How many guys can say they play at home and play pro hockey? He’s just a great person. He’s great to deal with every day. He pays attention to details. He’s a gem to have around.”

But while playing at home has been nice, the goal for any player in the ECHL is to move up to the next level. And Bigos has stepped up his play in the postseason to prove that he’s ready to challenge for a spot on the Sharks’ American Hockey League team next year.

A stay-at-home defenseman, Bigos has been paired with the more offensive-minded Matt Register on the Reign’s blue line in the postseason. Bigos has been counted on to hold down the fort when Register goes forward. While Register leads the Reign with 14 points in the playoffs, Bigos is set in his role, with no points, but a plus-7 rating.

It’s something the Sharks organization wants him to focus on at this point in his career.

“(They) definitely keep pushing me toward simplifying the game and working from inside out as a stay-at-home defenseman,” Bigos said. “So as long as I’m getting ice time and minutes, definitely getting better. Getting a lot out of being here and very excited for the opportunity.”

It’s an assessment his coach agrees with — with the caveat of continuing to fix the little things that might keep him from moving on.

“He’s got to keep competing,” Christie said. “He’s been called upon here in the last couple of
rounds. He’s definitely got opportunities, but he’s got those little things he’s got to work on. Whether it’s going back hard for pucks or getting your shot off, or maybe being that defensive force out there. He’s got a great reach, and that’s something where he’s got to keep progressing at.”

Bigos was drafted by the Edmonton Oilers in 2009 after two seasons with the Vernon Vipers of the British Columbia Hockey League. Instead of going pro, he spent four seasons at Merrimack College, where his 457 career penalty minutes set the Hockey East career mark.

He was traded to the Sharks in July 2013, and made his debut that fall with San Francisco, which eventually led him to Ontario.

Things will change next season, however. With Ontario moving up to the AHL next season, and the Sharks moving their affiliate to San Jose, the future is up in the air for Bigos. But this playoff season is an extra chance for Bigos to show he’s ready to make the move up.

“This is a big playoff for him,” Christie said. “The better the playoff he has, the more teams will be looking at him, too.

“And that’s why they’re down here, developing. Work every day. You’ve got to work every day. You have to work. If you don’t work, you don’t put the time in, do those little things, it’s going to be a tough road.”

For Bigos, however, the focus remains on the task in front of him.

“Still focusing on the task at hand,” he said. “Next year is next year — right now is where you want your focus and energy on this year.”

But he knows that this playoff, and the rest of his summer, will be huge for his career.

“It’s a very big offseason, and I think it really stems from play coming up in the playoffs — how do you want to end?” Bigos said. “How do you want to complete? It’s definitely something that is in the daily process.”

HC Red Ice Sign Former Viper Forward Nikiforuk:

HC Red Ice Martigny-Verbier-Entremont has signed former Vernon Vipers forward Alex Nikiforuk.  HC Red Ice Martigny-Verbier-Entremont is a Swiss ice hockey club, founded in 2008.  HC Red Ice is a member of the Swiss national League B.

Nikiforuk started the season with the GC Küsnacht Lions was in his second season with the Lions before joining HC Red Ice.  The Lions are a Swiss professional ice hockey team.

After playing four years at the University of Nebraska, Nikiforuk has spent the past eight seasons overseas playing with eight different teams.

Nikiforuk played one season as an affiliated player "AP" with the Vipers (1999-2000) before being traded the following season to the Burnaby Bulldogs. In just 6 games with the Vipers Nikiforuk collected (0-goals-2-assists-2-points).

Alex Nikiforuk's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=11415

This is posted on the Red Ice website:

Alex Nikiforuk with Red Ice for play-off

11.02.2015

Beep Scorer des GCK Lions, the Canadian Alex Nikiforuk joins Red Ice as third étanger with the aim of play-off.

Arrived in Switzerland, to GCK Leos, in 2013, Nikiforuk inscribed 74 points in matchs 83 of LNB. He should join Red Ice for training of tomorrow, on Thursday, and will be at disposition of the coach Albert Malgin from the beginning play-off on Friday, February 13th, 20 h 00 in the Forum of Octodure against HC Ajoie. ' It is important to be able to lean on such joker during play-off ', comments Albert Malgin.

Milano Rossoblu Sign Ex Vipers D-Man Waddell:

Milano Rossoblu have signed former Vernon Vipers defenceman Matt Waddell.  Milano Rossoblu is an ice hockey team from Milan, Italy.  It is currently playing in Serie A, the highest level of ice hockey competition in Italy.  In 7 games with Rossoblu Waddell has two assists.

Waddell started the season with ESV Kaufbeuren.  ESV Kaufbeuren is a professional ice hockey team based in Kaufbeuren, Germany that play in DEL2 the second level of ice hockey in Germany.  Waddell signed with ESV Kaufbeuren on September 7th 2014.  In 34 games this season with ESV Kaufbeuren Waddell collected (4-goals-13-assists-17-points) after playing last season with the HC Nikko Ice Bucks, an Asia League Ice Hockey team based in Nikkō, Tochigi, Japan. In 41 games last year with the Ice Bucks Waddell collected (8-goals-26-assists-34-points).

After four years at Ohio State University Waddell spent one season (2007-08) in the East Coast Hockey League & American Hockey League with Charlotte & Hartford.  Since 2008 Waddell has played overseas in seven different leagues with eight different teams.

Waddell played two years in Vernon (2001-2003). In 110 games with the Vipers Waddell collected (9-goals-44-assists-53-points).

Matt Waddell's Player Profile:

http://www.eliteprospects.com/player.php?player=14987

This is posted on the Rossoblu website:

January 8, 2015

Matt Waddell: a reinforcement for the Hockey Milan

THE Hockey Milan rossoblu, and am pleased to announce the agreement reached with the player Matt Waddell for the continuation of the sports season.

The inclusion of Matt Waddell in the Roster rossoblu and due to the forthcoming commitments of the Coppa Italia and the busy agenda of the Championship.

Matt Waddell - Class 1984 - born in Vernon (BC - Canada) defender - carton left. 185 Cm x 93 kg.

Defender with the vitiation of goals and the point, a past history of NCAA, and a year in ECHL (63 games and 18 points including 4 goals) year in which, among other things, Matt made his debut in AHL with the Hartford Wolf Pack, with which dispute 12 games.

In the two years following Matt lands in Europe, in the season 2008/2009 in Allsvenskan and in season 2009/2010 in Mestis in the following year between the row of the Hungarian team of the Miskolci Jegesmedve JSE.

Matt is not new or even the italian ice. In the beautiful Country has played for two consecutive years, in the seasons 2011/2012 to Pontebba, being the defender with the highest number of points made in the league) and in the season 2012/2013 to Alleghe (being the defender with the greater number of goals made in the series A).

Matt comes out of the 2, alloy in which this year has started the season with the mesh of the ESV Kaufbeuren with whom he played 34 games making 17 points (4 goals and 13 assists).

Today Matt Waddell clothe the mesh number #79 Rossoblu