The World of Junior Hockey

OMHA Top Prospects Prepare for St. Catharines Showcase

noreply@blogger.com (Nathan Fournier) — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0000

Press Release

The great ones – like Steven Stamkos played in the OMHA – with the next crop of OHL talent set to take to the ice at the OMHA Showcase in St. Catharines January 28 and 29.

Ten teams from the South Central AAA league (SCTA) minor midget AAAs will battle head-to-head in a series of games in front of pro, junior and university scouts at the Seymour-Hannah Sports and Entertainment Centre. The event is a preview of the top picks in this spring’s Ontario Hockey League and, in a few short years, the National Hockey League draft. The OMHA is a premier player development league; recent grads now in the NHL include Stamkos, Matt Duchene, Corey Perry and Cody Hodgson.

The games played are regular season contests. Results will be available here.

Playing head-to-head in the same rink allows scouts the ability to compare talents in the same environment. The competing teams are the high-flying Southern Tier Admirals, Niagara North Stars, Niagara Rivermen, Hamilton Jr. Bulldogs, Halton Hurricanes, Guelph Jr. Storm, Oakville Rangers, Brampton, Burlington Eagles and Grey Bruce Highlanders.

“You can sit there for two days and get a good read on kids before the playoffs start. This could be the last look for some kids before the OHL draft (in April),” said Ontario Hockey League Director of Central Scouting Darrell Woodley.

The weekend is about far more than scouting. The OMHA AAA Parent/Player Education Seminar will inform players and their families about the opportunities hockey can generate – options to play in the Ontario Hockey League or Ontario University Athletics.

“Profiling our AAA athletes at the Showcase events is an excellent way for scouts and universities to see all players,” said OMHA President Joyce Junker. “The OMHA is proud of every player and wants to do the best job possible to support them and their families by hosting such events as this.”

Special guest speakers include Tom Bly about OMHA programs that support player development, Murray Nystrom, head coach of the Brock Badgers men’s team and Brock player Derek Brochu, a grad of Welland Tigers minor hockey and the OHL’s Owen Sound Attack and Guelph Storm. More information about the guest speakers is available here.

"Brock University hockey is pleased to be part of this important weekend for OMHA players,” said Badgers’ coach Nystrom. “Development opportunities in OMHA centres continue to grow. This showcase weekend enhances the experience of these athletes and helps prepare them for their next level of play."

“The Ontario Hockey League offers student-athletes the best of both worlds when it comes to on ice development and opportunities in education,” said OHL Commissioner David Branch. “We look forward to the opportunity to meet so many of the OMHA’s great student-athletes and future stars of the OHL at these events.”

The Showcase sponsors include the OHL, OUA, Brock University, Pro Hockey Life, Under Armour, Rinknet Breakout, Shoeless Joe’s Restaurants, and Xilarate Sports Power Fluid.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

EJHL ESTABLISHES 16U LEAGUE

noreply@blogger.com (Nathan Fournier) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 21:00:00 +0000

Press Release

The Eastern Junior Hockey League has announced the establishment of a brand new 16-and-under league for the 2012-13 season.

The program, which will consist of full-season teams, will be the first of its kind in the Northeast, allowing for greater development and less travel, resulting in a smaller number of school days missed. The new league will follow the High Performance Club Criteria developed by USA Hockey in accordance with the American Development Model. Our programs will be affordable and promote development on the ice as well as in the community and the class room.

“The purpose of the initiative is to better develop our prospects while using [the EJHL’s] well-established network to provide exposure and promotion,” said EJHL Commissioner Bob Mainhardt. “This is a very exciting time for the EJHL and, more importantly, this is a crucial development for our current and future players.”

For more information, please contact the EJHL office at 781-938-4400 or any of our member clubs.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

MANN COMMITS TO ROBERT MORRIS

noreply@blogger.com (Nathan Fournier) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 15:00:00 +0000

Press Release

Markham Waxers defenceman Robert Mann (pictured with Whitby Fury - photo credit: Brian Watts/OJHL) has confirmed his commitment to join the Robert Morris University Colonials beginning with the 2012-13 Atlantic Hockey season.

The 6' 3", 215 lbs. native of Oshawa, Ontario played his first OJHL game as an affiliated 16-year old midget with the Whitby Fury back in 2009-10. After playing three games for the Fury that season, he joined the club full-time in 2010-11, recording seven goals and twenty-five points in 45 games played to finish second among the team's defencemen in scoring.

Midway through this season, after notching another 11 points in 21 games for the Fury, Mann was moved to the Markham Waxers, where he has anchored the club's back-end this season, especially following the loss of rearguard Stephen Midensky to the OHL's Kitchener Rangers. He currently leads all Fury d-men in scoring with 24 assists and 26 points and sits second among all players with 17 power play assists.

Congratulations to Rob and best of luck the rest of this season and beyond!

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Winterhawks Sign Adam De Champlain

noreply@blogger.com (Nathan Fournier) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0000

Press Release

The Portland Winterhawks have signed center Adam De Champlain, the team’s 10th round pick in the 2009 Western Hockey League Bantam Draft.

De Champlain, 17, is playing this season for the Camrose Kodiaks of the Alberta Junior Hockey League, where he has eight goals and six assists for 14 points in 38 games.

Last season in 34 games with the Sherwood Park J. Ennis Kings of the Alberta Midget Hockey League, De Champlain had nine goals and 14 assists for 23 points.

“Adam is a solid two-way forward who will add depth and experience to our group next year. Playing with Camrose, one of the elite teams in the AJHL, has really accelerated his development," said Winterhawks General Manager & Head Coach Mike Johnston.

De Champlain will finish the season with Camrose and is expected to join the Winterhawks next season.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

WILD REACQUIRE JACOB BARBER

noreply@blogger.com (Nathan Fournier) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0000

Press Release

WENATCHEE, Wash. – The Wenatchee Wild reacquired Jacob Barber (Dardenne Prairie, Mo.), the high-energy, high-scoring forward that was a catalyst on last season’s team that contended for a West Division championship. The Wild also acquired defenseman Tyler Rostenkowski (Bloomingdale, Ill.) and the rights to forward Alec Shields (Moon Township, Pa.).

Barber was a 2011 USHL Entry Draft first-round selection by the Cedar Rapids RoughRiders. He notched four points (1G, 3A) and was plus-6 in 11 games with Cedar Rapids. The RoughRiders dealt Barber to the Jersey Hitmen of the EJHL at the end of November. With the Hitmen, Barber posted eight points (1G, 7A) in 11 games.

“It feels great,” Barber said of his return to Wenatchee. “I’m glad to be back. I loved it here last year.”

Barber was originally acquired by the Wild on Feb. 4, 2011, from the Alaska Avalanche. He was plus-4 and scored 10 goals and five assists in 16 games for the Wild through the remainder of the regular season and was selected for one SBK Hockey West Player of the Week. Barber went to tally seven points (3G, 4A) and was plus-4 in seven playoff games with the Wild.

“He could have a big impact,” said Wild head coach John Becanic. “Jacob’s such a dynamic player, and he brings a certain attitude to the bench that I thought was really good for us.”

Rostenkowski was in his third season with the Texas Tornado. Committed to Air Force, the left-handed blueliner scored three goals this season with 10 assists (13 points). He was also plus-6. In his regular-season career with the Tornado, Rostenkowski racked up 36 points (10G, 26A) and was plus-19.

“We really felt we needed a left shot defenseman,” said Becanic. “Tyler’s a veteran player that has played in really good programs. He’s a high, high character guy, and he should help give us some more offense on the back end.”

The Wild also acquired the rights to Shields, though he will not be eligible to play for several weeks as he continues to recover from an injury.

A Mercyhurst College recruit, Shields spent the last three seasons with the Traverse City North Stars. In 80 games with the North Stars since 2009, he notched 66 points (29G, 37A) and was plus-22.

Shields was with the North Stars during their 2010 playoff run that concluded with a trip to the Robertson Cup Championship Tournament that was held at the Town Toyota Center in Wenatchee.

“Alec’s a world class skater and a point-per-game guy in our league,” Becanic said of Shields. “He’s an impact player that’s a first line center on any team in this league.”

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Sissons and Murray Named Team Orr and Team Cherry Captains

noreply@blogger.com (Nathan Fournier) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 04:00:00 +0000

Press Release

Toronto, ON - The Canadian Hockey League in association with the Western Hockey League Kelowna Rockets Hockey Club and Home Hardware Stores Limited today announced the captains and alternate captains for the 2012 Home Hardware CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game to be played February 1 at Prospera Place in Kelowna, BC.

Colton Sissons of the host Kelowna Rockets will captain Team Orr which will be coached by Pat Quinn, while Ryan Murray of the Everett Silvertips will be captain for Team Cherry which is coached by Mark Recchi. Alternate captains for Team Orr include Mikhail Grigorenko of the Quebec Remparts and Tanner Pearson of the Barrie Colts, with Brendan Gaunce of the Belleville Bulls and Martin Frk of the Halifax Mooseheads serving as alternate captains for Team Cherry.

Sissons, an 18-year-old from North Vancouver, BC, is the top ranked WHL forward at number 14 in NHL Central Scouting’s midterm rankings for the 2012 NHL Entry Draft. Playing in his second WHL season, Sissons also serves as captain of the Rockets where he has 36 points in 48 games so far this season. Team Orr’s alternate captains both competed at the 2012 IIHF World Junior Championship with Grigorenko earning a silver medal with Russia and Pearson winning bronze with Canada. Grigorenko is the top ranked QMJHL forward at number two overall and leads all rookies with 60 points in 38 games for the Remparts. Pearson, ranked 22 by NHL Central Scouting, is currently second in OHL scoring with 70 points in 37 games for the Colts.

Murray, an 18-year-old defenceman from White City, SK, will lead Team Cherry as the top ranked WHL skater for the 2012 NHL Entry Draft at number three among North American prospects. He also captains the Silvertips and represented Canada at the 2012 IIHF World Junior Championship. Gaunce represents the OHL as an alternate captain on Team Cherry, also serving as an alternate for the Bulls where he leads the club with 44 points in 45 games as the number 11 ranked prospect. The Mooseheads’ Frk is the second highest ranked QMJHL skater for the 2012 NHL Entry Draft at number 25 and has 10 points in 14 games since returning from injury after posting 50 points in 62 games as a rookie last season.

Also announced today was the addition of goaltender Chris Driedger of the WHL’s Calgary Hitmen to the Team Orr roster for the 2012 Home Hardware CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game.

Driedger, a 17-year-old from Winnipeg, Manitoba, was ranked 12^th among North American Goaltenders by NHL Central Scouting in their midterm rankings. At 6’2’’ and 186lbs, Driedger is playing in his second season and first with the Hitmen. In 27 games he carries a record of 13-7-2-1 with one shutout and a goals-against-average of 2.86 and save percentage of .894. Driedger replaces Malcolm Subban of the Belleville Bulls who is unable to participate due to injury.

The 2012 Home Hardware CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game is supported by title sponsor Home Hardware for the 13^th straight year with associate sponsors Bank of Montreal, Subway, and CCM.

The game will be broadcast live to a national audience on Sportsnet and TVA Sports in Quebec beginning at 7:00 pm Pacific and available online through Sportsnet 590 The FAN.

The 2012 Home Hardware CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game will mark the 17^th annual showcase of the CHL’s top-40 NHL draft eligible players. The two-day event also features a skills competition and three-on-three challenge taking place on Tuesday January 31, 2012. Ticket packages are still available for the two-day event and can be purchased at http://www.selectyourtickets.com/prospects.php or by calling 250-762-5050.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Sam Johnson Joins Bulls From Wild

noreply@blogger.com (Nathan Fournier) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 21:00:00 +0000

Press Release

AMARILLO, TX – The Amarillo Bulls, proud members of the North American Hockey League added some size to their defense on Wednesday afternoon by acquiring Sam Johnson from the Wenatchee Wild.

Johnson has played in 34 games for the Wild where he netted one goal and added nine assists for 10 points and 37 penalty minutes. Six of Johnson’s nine assists have come on the power play. The 6 ft, 1 inch, 195 pound native of Dallas Texas has also fired 37 shots on goal.

“We are at a stage where we are contending for the Robertson Cup and we thought bringing in a player like Sam will add more depth to the back end,” said Bulls Head Coach Dennis Williams “I like to carry eight defenseman during the playoff run and right now we are at seven. We hope he can contribute right away and give us the edge that we need.”

Williams said that Johnson is excited about coming to Amarillo and playing in his own state.

“He is from Dallas and played with Clint Carlisle, and comes from the organization where our other tender Cody Rogers is from,” Williams added. “I think that it’s important that people know we have great hockey players right here in the State of Texas. It’s only his first year of junior hockey but he has been playing for a good coach, John Becanic (in Wenatchee), for a team that has done a pretty good job on the defensive side of the puck.”

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

ERMAKOV DEALT TO GREEN MOUNTAIN GLADES (EJHL)

noreply@blogger.com (Nathan Fournier) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 21:00:00 +0000

Press Release

CORPUS CHRISTI, TX – The Corpus Christi IceRays announced today that they have moved forward Dmitry Ermakov to the Green Mountain Glades in the Eastern Junior Hockey League (EJHL)

In 28 games played this year, Ermakov recorded 3 goals and 11 assists.

“We wish Dmitry the best of luck with the Green Mountain Glades,” said head coach Justin Quenneville. “It is unfortunate sometimes in our industry that situations do not always work out, and I hope fans can respect the limitations to disclosing why Dmitry was moved and that hockey decisions are sometimes met by both parties. Dmitry is had nothing but respect and great things to say about the organization and fans, but he is looking to moving forward with his hockey endeavors.”

The Green Mountain Glades are members of the EJHL, a Tier III Junior A league on the East Coast. The Glades are in the North Division on the EJHL and sit in fourth place with a record of 15-15-3.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

SASKATOON BLADES: Sign Nelson Nogier

noreply@blogger.com (Nathan Fournier) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 20:55:00 +0000

Press Release

The Saskatoon Blades are pleased to announce that they have signed defenceman Nelson Nogier to a Western Hockey League education contract.

The 6'1, 168 pound native of Saskatoon was the Blades 4th round selection, 71st overall, in the 2011 WHL Bantam Draft.

"The Saskatoon Blades organization are excited to get a player like Nelson under contract," said Blades assistant General Manager Jarrod Brodsky.

"He's shown the qualities that we like in a player and we are very happy with his development since we drafted him this past spring. We look forward to seeing him develop even further in the coming months."

Nogier has spent the 2011-2012 season with the Saskatoon Contacts, where he has posted 3 goals and 11 points in 35 games up to this point of the year.

Saskatoon Blades Hockey, It Starts Here!

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Rivermen d-man Coyne lands scholarship to Alaska-Fairbanks

noreply@blogger.com (Nathan Fournier) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 15:00:00 +0000

Press Release

The Langley Rivermen are pleased to announce defenceman Richard Coyne has committed to the University of Alaska-Fairbanks for the 2012-2013 season.

Since joining the Rivermen franchise in mid November from the Lincoln Stars of the USHL, Richard has been an anchor back on the blue line for the Rivermen. Rivermen defence coach Bobby Henderson is not surprised Richard has furthered his hockey career.

“We are very excited for him and believe Alaska-Fairbanks will be a great opportunity. He has worked extremely hard since being here with us and really deserves this."

The Arizona native has put up six assists in 16 games in his time in a Rivermen uniform and has provided veteran leadership on a young squad. Coyne did not have to look far to learn about his new university as Rivermen offensive coach Jordan Emmerson spent four years at Alaska-Fairbanks. With this announcement, the Rivermen now have five players on the roster who have commitments to either a college or university.

On behalf of the entire Langley Rivermen organization we would like to congratulate Richard on his accomplishment.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Wild defenseman Kyle Huson commits to UCONN

noreply@blogger.com (Nathan Fournier) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 15:00:00 +0000

Press Release

The Wenatchee Wild of the North American Hockey League (NAHL), have announced that defenseman Kyle Huson (Parker, Colo.) has committed to continue his education and hockey career at the University of Connecticut this fall.

“It’s a big stress relief,” Huson said of his decision to commit to the Division I Huskies, noting that academics weighed heavily in his decision. “And now I can just focus solely on winning and being there for my team.”

Huson is in his second season with Wild. He recorded 27 points (2G, 25A) in 53 games last season. He was a team-best plus-23 in 2010-11, and his 25 assists were the third most on the team.

One of the team’s assistant captains, Huson has four points (1G, 3A) in 36 games this season. He has also been a major part of the Wild’s No. 2-ranked penalty-kill in the NAHL, which is operating at a success rate over 88 percent.

“Obviously we’re very excited for Kyle,” said Wild assistant coach Chris Clark. “He has played a very tough role for us playing against every team’s top line every night.”

Bruce Marshall is in his 24th season as head coach at UConn. The Huskies, who compete in the Atlantic Hockey Association, currently own an overall record of 11-12-2.

Huson is the sixth player on the Wild’s active roster to commit to a Division I school. The other five are: Ben Carey and Blake Saylor (Air Force), Matt Cope (Robert Morris University), Kyle Vogel (Army) and Blake Roubos (Niagara University).

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Ice Dogs forfeit Jan. 18 game to Lakers

noreply@blogger.com (Nathan Fournier) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0000

Press Release

THUNDER BAY, Ont. – The Superior International Junior Hockey League announced Tuesday that upon further investigation, the Dryden Ice Dogs have forfeited their Wednesday, Jan. 18 vs. the Fort Frances Lakers due to the use of an ineligible player.

The Ice Dogs inadvertently dressed one player over the maximum of 18 skaters and two goaltenders allowed as per Hockey Canada regulations in the game.

The SIJHL received full cooperation from both clubs in the investigation and it was deemed the use of the extra player by the Ice Dogs was inadvertent.

However due to the violation, Dryden forfeits their original 6-4 victory with Fort Frances now being awarded the two points from the game and a 1-0 victory.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

CHL Announces BMO CHL MasterCard Top 10 Rankings

noreply@blogger.com (Nathan Fournier) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 21:48:00 +0000

Press Release

Toronto, ON – The Canadian Hockey League today announced the BMO CHL MasterCard Top 10 Rankings for week 18 of the 2011-12 season. The weekly rankings of the Canadian Hockey League’s Top 10 teams are selected by a panel of National Hockey League scouts.

BMO CHL MasterCard Top 10 Rankings – Week 18

Rank	Team (Record)	Last Week Rank	Number of Weeks Ranked
1	London Knights (35-9-0-1)	2	17
2	Kamloops Blazers (34-10-1-2)	4	9
3	Tri-City Americans (34-11-0-1)	1	15
4	Shawinigan Cataractes (33-11-2-2)	3	16
5	Saint John Sea Dogs (34-13-0-2)	6	18
6	Edmonton Oil Kings (32-11-1-4)	9	6
7	Plymouth Whalers (31-12-2-1)	5	11
8	Ottawa 67's (29-11-4-1)	-	5
9	Quebec Remparts (30-11-4-2)	7	15
10	Kitchener Rangers (30-13-1-0)	10	7

	Honourable Mention:
	Portland Winterhawks (31-14-2-1)	8	3
	Victoriaville Tigres (32-15-0-2)	-	12
	Niagara IceDogs (28-14-0-3)	-	1

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

OJHL UNVEILS SEVEN NEW AWARDS

noreply@blogger.com (Nathan Fournier) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 21:00:00 +0000

Press Release

The Ontario Junior Hockey League (OJHL) announced today that it has unveiled seven new end of year awards, including the first-ever Fan Favourite Award that will see fans choose their favourite OJHL star. This brings the total number of year-end league awards handed out to sixteen. As well, the OJHL announced the formation of an 11 person Awards Committee that will be responsible for voting on each of the award winner. The new awards include:

• OJHL Fan Favourite Award
• OJHL Volunteer-of-the-Year
• OJHL Humanitarian-of-the-Year
• OJHL Trainer-of-the-Year
• OJHL Scholastic Player-of-the-Year
• OJHL Executive-of-the-Year
• OJHL Top Prospect Award

The most anticipated of the new awards is the Fan Favourite Award, which is to be voted upon and selected by you, the fans. All fans will be allowed to submit players names in an online form found on the homepage of the OJHL website, www.ojhl.ca. The winner will be the player that receives the most submissions (votes) through the course of the online voting.

Voting begins today (January 25, 2012) and will run throughout the playoffs, ending at 5pm EST on Sunday, March 25, 2012. The winner of the first-ever Fan Favourite Award will be unveiled prior to game one of the OJHL Championship Series during the 2nd Annual OJHL Awards Ceremony.

More importantly, the award will be presented to the winning player by a fan. Teams will be asked to nominate one important fan to their club (using their own criteria) and then one lucky OJHL fan will be randomly selected from that group to present the award on-ice prior to game one of the OJHL Championship.

Criteria for the other new OJHL Awards is as follows:

The Volunteer-of-the-Year will be awarded to the person who has volunteered for the team that is adjudged to have consistently gone above and beyond the call of duty for his or her member club throughout the course of the regular season. Past experience and longevity will also be considered when selecting the winner.

The Humanitarian-of-the-Year will be awarded to the player adjudged to have made the most notable contribution to his community in a humanitarian sense, including, but not limited to, charitable work, school visits and extra-curricular off-ice activities.

The Trainer-of-the-Year will awarded to the trainer, therapist or equipment manager that is adjudged to be the best at his profession for his or her member club throughout the course of the regular season. Past experience and longevity will also be considered when selecting the winner.

The Scholastic Player-of-the-Year will be awarded to the player adjudged to best combine success on the ice with his club, along with success in school.

The Executive-of-the-Year will be awarded to a club executive, including, but not limited to, President, Vice-President, General Manager, Assistant General Manager or Marketing Executive, that is adjudged to have exceeded expectations in his role with the club throughout the course of the regular season.

The Top Prospect Award will be awarded to the player adjudged to be the best eligible prospect for the upcoming NHL Entry Draft.

OJHL Awards that remain in competition include:

• Most Valuable Player
• Top Defenceman
• Rookie-of-the-Year
• Most Gentlemanly Player
• Most Improved Player
• Coach-of-the-Year
• Top Scorer
• Top Goaltender
• Playoff MVP
• 1st & 2nd OJHL All-Star Teams
• 1st & 2nd OJHL All-Prospect Teams

Along with the seven new awards, the OJHL announced a new voting procedure that sees the formation of an 11 person Awards Committee. Following the nominations from across the league, the committee will be assigned the task of voting for the league award winners. Breakdown of the committee is as follows:

• OJHL Staff Member
• OJHL Board of Governor – North-West Conference representative
• OJHL Board of Governor – South-East Conference representative
• OJHL General Manager – East Division representative
• OJHL General Manager – North Division representative
• OJHL General Manager – South Division representative
• OJHL General Manager – West Division representative
• OJHL Media Member – East Division representative
• OJHL Media Member – North Division representative
• OJHL Media Member – South Division representative
• OJHL Media Member – West Division representative

“The OJHL is excited to unveil this list of new awards and especially the Fan Favourite Award as it allows an important segment of our game, the fan’s, to voice their opinion on who they feel the league’s best player might be. By creating seven new league awards, the Board of Governors have taken another step toward the league’s mandate to promote our most integral resource, the players,” said OJHL Commissioner Marty Savoy. Savoy continued by saying, “The formation of an Awards Committee that includes both league, club and media members, allows us to take another step toward complete transparency in the award selection process.”

“As Governors of the OJHL, we wanted to ensure that we recognized the significant contributions of not only our players, but also the staff and volunteers of our teams,” stated OJHL Chairman and Whitby Fury Governor Scott McCrory. “The OJHL made a strategic decision to ensure that we promote the efforts and accomplishments of our players and we have had tremendous support from our media partners in each of the communities that we are located. We feel that the addition of media members in our year-end award process allows for another knowledgeable and impartial group to ensure that the very best of our nominees are awarded for their successes.

The OJHL Awards will be unveiled throughout the course of the playoffs with the first awards, Top Scorer and Top Goaltender announced immediately following the completion of the regular season based on statistics.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

2012 WHL U.S. PROSPECTS CAMP

noreply@blogger.com (Nathan Fournier) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 15:00:00 +0000

Press Release

Calgary, AB - The Western Hockey League will be hosting the seventh annual WHL U.S. Prospects Camp in Anaheim, California at the Anaheim Ice facility from April 13-15, 2012.

The WHL U.S. Prospects Camp provides a unique opportunity for U.S. born hockey players to participate with other top ranked 1997 and 1998 born players in the only evaluation camp conducted by the Western Hockey League in the U.S. this season. The WHL is the largest Major Junior Hockey League in North America and is a leading supplier of player talent to the National Hockey League. Virtually all of the WHL’s 22 Member Clubs will have scouts in attendance to evaluate player’s ability to play in one of the world’s finest development League for junior aged players.

“The WHL U.S. Prospects Camp provides our WHL Clubs with the opportunity to evaluate top prospects from throughout the western United States who are eligible for this year’s WHL Bantam Draft,” commented WHL Commissioner Ron Robison, “It is important we provide these young prospects every opportunity to learn more about the benefits of playing in the Western Hockey League, including details on our WHL Scholarship Program.”

The WHL U.S. Prospects Camp is open only to U.S. Residents born in 1997 and 1998, who live in the Western United States (all U.S. States west of the Mississippi River and Alaska). Of the 34 U.S. born players currently on WHL rosters, 16 attended a WHL U.S. Prospects Camp.

WHL Head Coaches will run the benches of each camp team. Last year’s camp featured Bruno Campese (Prince Albert Raiders), Dean Clark (Prince George Cougars), Don Hay (Vancouver Giants) and Derek Laxdal (Edmonton Oil Kings). Current California born WHL players will also attend the camp, serving as assistant coaches during the weekend. Current Kamloops Blazer Chase Souto (Yorba Linda, CA) and graduate player Parker Stanfield (Orange County, CA/Everett Silvertips) attended last year’s camp.

The WHL U.S. Prospect Camp also features a WHL Prospects Information Session, where players and their families will learn about the benefits of playing Major Junior hockey in Canada. In past seasons guest speakers have included former Kamloops Blazers’ Scott Neidermeyer and Darcy Tucker, and current Edmonton Oil King Tyler Maxwell.

For those players who were invited to participate in this year’s camp, please complete the Player Registration Form and submit it to the WHL Office:
Attn: Tyler Boldt
Manager, Player Development and Recruitment
Western Hockey League
Phone: 403-693-3058
Fax: 403-693-3031
Email: boldtt@whl.ca
2012 WHL U.S. Prospect Camp Player Application Form CLICK HERE
2012 WHL U.S. Prospect Camp Schedule (tentative) CLICK HERE
Team rosters, finalized schedules, and other camp information will become available in the near future.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Eagles captain Morley accepts scholarship to Alaska-Fairbanks

noreply@blogger.com (Nathan Fournier) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0000

Press Release

Surrey Eagles captain and leading scorer Tyler Morley has scored again, landing a scholarship to the University of Alaska-Fairbanks for next season.

The Burnaby native is a a four-year BCHL veteran and is closing in on 200 games played. Morley is known as a tireless worker and has set the tone for Surrey this season as they sit in second place in the Coastal Conference.

"Since taking over as captain last year, Tyler has been the heart and soul of the Surrey Eagles and leads by example through hard work and his sacrifice for the team," said Eagles head coach Matt Erhart. "This season has also taken his offensive game to the next level and he is developing into a complete two-way player.

"The Surrey Eagles are very proud and excited about Tyler committing to Alaska-Fairbanks."

Morley, whose younger brother Brandon plays with the Eagles too but is not committed to school, has already established new career highs in goals (20) and assists (24) this year with 19 games left in the regular season.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

SWAVELY TO MAINE

noreply@blogger.com (Nathan Fournier) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0000

Press Release

Wayne, NJ- The Jersey Hitmen are proud to announce that two year veteran and team captain Steven Swavely has committed to the University of Maine for the fall. Swavely follows in the footsteps of his older brother John, who is currently a sophomore at Maine. The 6'2’, 195-pound, Swavely has been a corner piece in the Hitmen line up since arriving in Wayne last season. In 90 EJHL games, Swavely has racked up a 32-67-99 line. Known for being a tenacious two-way player, the 2012 EJHL all-star finished his 2010-2011 rookie campaign as the 18th leading scorer in the league. This season, the Hitmen leading scorer, is 16th in league scoring with a 18-23-41 scoring line.

"I am so excited for ‘Swaves,’" commented coach Toby Harris. "Steven is a great kid. This year when we voted for team captains, Steven was a unanimous pick, he was on everyone's ballot, that speaks volume about his character. He is well liked, respected and a true leader in every sense of the word." Harris went on to say, "Maine is getting a real gem both on and off the ice. I have no doubt that Steven will be very successful in Orono and beyond."

Swavely, on a four game scoring streak (4-6-10), spoke about his commitment. "I can’t put into words how happy I am to be joining my brother at the University of Maine. Being part of a school so rich in hockey tradition and winning is a dream come true. After visiting Orono back in late November I knew it was the spot for me. I would like to thank Coach Harris, Coach Hunt, owner Bob Reiss and the whole Hitmen organization for everything that they have done for me. I would not be the player that I am today without the Hitmen and the EJHL. I developed tremendously in Jersey both on the ice and in the weight room. The attention to detail in everything that we do here has raised my game to the next level and I look forward to taking what I have learned to Orono." Swavely continued, "most of all I would like to thank my family. The opportunity that they have afforded me, the support that they have given me every step of the way, I would not be here without them. I cannot thank them enough! I look forward to working with Coach Whitehead, Corkum and Kerluke and helping Maine win a national championship."

Swavely becomes the 13th Hitman/ alumni to commit to a division one college program this season.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

SOLOMON TO SACRED HEART

noreply@blogger.com (Nathan Fournier) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0000

Press Release

Bridgewater, MA- The Boston Bandits are pleased to announce that defenseman Matt Solomon has committed to Sacred Heart University for the fall of 2012. Sacred Heart University competes in the Division I Atlantic Hockey League.

The Toronto, Ontario, native is a two-time EJHL All-Star and has compiled an impressive stat line in his 2 seasons with the Bandits. In 77 games, Matt has 22 goals, 34 assists for 56 points. His 2011-12 stat line of 8 goals and 21 assists for 29 points in 34 games ranks him second in the EJHL among defenseman.

Solomon commented, "I could not be more excited for the opportunity to attend Sacred Heart University. I am looking forward to playing Division I hockey, advance my education, and continue to build a great hockey tradition at Sacred Heart. I would also like to thank Coach Stirling and the Bandits organization for all of the hard work that they put forward for me over my two years."

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Winterhawks Sign Presten Kopeck

noreply@blogger.com (Nathan Fournier) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 22:32:00 +0000

Press Release

The Portland Winterhawks have signed center Presten Kopeck, whom the team selected in the third round of the 2010 Western Hockey League Bantam Draft, 60th overall.

Kopeck, 16, is playing this season for the Lloydminster Bobcats of the Alberta Junior Hockey League, where he has seven goals and 12 assists for 19 points in 45 games.

Last season in 34 games with the Medicine Hat Tigers of the Alberta Midget Hockey League (not affiliated with the WHL team of the same name) Kopeck had 11 goals and eight assists for 19 points.

“Presten is a solid two-way player who has continued to develop throughout this season. Our scouts believe he is one of the best 16-year-olds presently at the Junior A level,” said Winterhawks General Manager & Head Coach Mike Johnston. “He had a very good training camp this year, and we’re excited he’s chosen to sign with us.”

Kopeck will finish the season with Lloydminster and is expected to join the Winterhawks next season.
(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

NAHL announces 2012 Top Prospects rosters

noreply@blogger.com (Nathan Fournier) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 21:00:00 +0000

Press Release

The North American Hockey League (NAHL) has announced the rosters for next month’s NAHL Top Prospects Tournament, presented by Combat Hockey, which will be held from February 20-22 at the Troy Sports Center in Troy, Michigan.

Central roster
Midwest roster
North roster
South roster
West roster
NAHL 18U Selects roster

At the event, six teams - Central, Midwest, North, South, West and the NAHL 18U Selects - will each play three games. Each team consists of a 20-man roster as chosen by the NAHL Top Prospects Tournament Selection Committee as nominated by the league’s 28 head coaches, with minor player crossover amongst the six teams.
All NAHL players are eligible to participate in the Top Prospects Tournament, regardless if they’ve committed to an NCAA school. Each of the teams will consist of 12 forwards, 6 defensemen and 2 goaltenders. The number of players represented by each NAHL team was based on each team’s winning percentage within their division as of January 16th.
In conjunction with the NAHL Top Prospects Tournament, all North American Prospects Hockey League (PHL) teams - Midget Major, Midget Minor and Bantam Major - will compete in the PHL Championship Tournament Series for the right to be crowned league champions. That event will run from February 17-20, also at the Troy Sports Center in Troy, Michigan.

The North American 3 Hockey League (3HL) will also have representation at the Top Prospects Tournament, as eight of the league’s 16 teams (Battle Creek, Cleveland, Flint, Metro, Michigan, Pittsburgh, Queen City and Toledo) will play four regular season games from February 19-22 at the Troy Sports Center in Troy, Michigan.

For more information on the NAHL Top Prospects Tournament, visit http://www.nahltopprospects.com/.
To view the 2012 NAHL Top Prospects schedule, click here.
For more information on the NAPHL, visit http://www.naphl.com/.
For more information on the NA3HL, visit http://www.na3hl.com/.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Oil Kings’ Michael St. Croix Named CHL Player of the Week

noreply@blogger.com (Nathan Fournier) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 18:11:00 +0000

Press Release

Toronto, ON – The Canadian Hockey League today announced that forward Michael St. Croix of the Edmonton Oil Kings is the CHL Player of the Week for the week ending January 22 after picking up 10 points in three games scoring six goals and four assists with a plus-minus rating of plus-7.

St. Croix led the first place Oil Kings to three straight wins last week giving them 69 points to lead the WHL’s Eastern Conference Standings. Last Wednesday night he scored his first of two hat-tricks during the week as first star of a 5-0 win over the Prince George Cougars. St. Croix then picked up a pair of assists in a 6-1 road victory over the Swift Current Broncos on Friday night before matching a season-high with five points as first star of a 9-2 win over the Prince Albert Raiders on Saturday where he scored three goals and two assists.

St. Croix, an 18-year-old from Winnipeg, MB, is currently playing in his third full WHL season with the Oil Kings. A fourth round pick of the New York Rangers in the 2011 NHL Entry Draft, St. Croix is currently ranked third in WHL scoring with 31 goals and 46 assists for 77 points in 48 games played.

Also considered for the award this week was Zach O’Brien of the Acadie-Bathurst Titan who scored five goals and two assists for seven points in two games. In the OHL, defenceman Ryan Murphy of the Kitchener Rangers was also considered after picking up seven points in three games with two goals and five assists.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Drakkar’s Philippe Cadorette Named Vaughn CHL Goaltender of the Week

noreply@blogger.com (Nathan Fournier) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 18:10:00 +0000

Press Release

Toronto, ON – The Canadian Hockey League today announced that rookie Philippe Cadorette of the Baie-Comeau Drakkar is the Vaughn CHL Goaltender of the Week for the week ending January 22 with a 2-0-0-0 record including a shutout victory with a goals-against-average of 0.50 and save percentage of .975.

Cadorette recorded his first career QMJHL shutout victory in just his fourth career start on Sunday in a 2-0 win over the Rimouski Oceanic. He stopped all 28 shots he faced and was named first star of the contest. Earlier in the week Friday, Cadorette made 11 saves as part of a 6-1 win over the P.E.I Rocket.

Cadorette, a 16-year-old from St. Hyacinthe, QC, was selected by the Drakkar in the second round of the 2011 QMJHL Entry Draft. So far this season he carries a 3-1-0-0 record with a goals-against-average of 1.89 and save percentage of .913.

Also considered for the award was Laurent Brossoit of the Edmonton Oil Kings who posted a 2-0-0-0 record including a shutout victory with a goals-against-average of 1.00 and save percentage of .963. In the OHL, Matej Machovsky of the Brampton Battalion also posted a 2-0-0-0 record with a shutout victory and a goals-against-average of 0.50 and save percentage of .967.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

Cooper scoops Player of the Week nod with dramatic game-winner

noreply@blogger.com (Nathan Fournier) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 18:05:00 +0000

Press Release

Trail Smoke Eaters forward Erik Cooper has been named the BCHL Player of the Week for the week ending Jan. 22, the league announced on Monday.

Cooper scored a dramatic, double-overtime penalty shot goal on the road to defeat the Salmon Arm SilverBacks. He wound up with two goals and an assist in the win.

The Anchorage, Alaska helped the Smokies to a 2-1 record and totaled two goals and three assists for the week.

Honourable mentions this week go to Nanaimo Clippers forward Dan Correale (three goals, 1st Star, 2nd Star), Nanaimo Clippers goalie Billy Faust (two wins, 63 saves on 67 shots, 1.97 GAA), Chilliwack Chiefs forward Malcolm Gould (two goals, three assists, 2nd Star) and Penticton Vees goalie Michael Garteig (two wins, one shutout, .43 saves on 44 shots, 0.50 GAA).

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

NAHL announces Combat Hockey 3 stars of the week

noreply@blogger.com (Nathan Fournier) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 18:03:00 +0000

Press Release

The North American Hockey League (NAHL) today announced the Three Stars of the Week presented by Combat Hockey for the week ending January 22, 2012. The Three Stars of the Week is a weekly feature during the 2011-12 regular season that honors the top performing players each week of the regular season as nominated by their respective teams.

1st Star: Andrew Graves, forward, Kalamazoo Jr. K-Wings
Kalamazoo forward Andrew Graves, 20, helped the Jr. K-Wings to a perfect weekend as they won all three of their games to creep closer to the top spot in the North Division. For the week, Graves recorded 9 points (2 goals, 7 assists) and was a +6 for the weekend. On Friday, the Allen Park, Michigan native recorded four assists (including one on the game-winning goal) as Kalamazoo beat the Michigan Warriors on the road, 6-2. On Saturday, Graves (5’8/151) had a goal and an assist in a 5-3 home win over the Warriors. On Sunday, Graves scored again and added two more assists in a 5-2 home win over Traverse City. Graves in second on the Jr. K-Wings in scoring with 43 points in 39 games played and leads the team in assists with 24. “Andrew has been a very consistent performer for us and he is really starting to show some veteran leadership,” said Kalamazoo head coach Marc Fakler. “There is a premium for veteran guys who can score and lead in this league and Andrew brings that to the table. He had an outstanding week.”

2nd Star: Brock Raffaele, forward, Kalamazoo Jr. K-Wings
20-year-old Kalamazoo forward Brock Raffaele had his breakout weekend of the year by helping the Jr. K-Wings to three wins. In the three games, Raffaele had 8 points (3 goals, 5 assists) and was a +7. The Cadillac, Michigan native began the week with a two goal (including the game-winner) one assist performance in a 6-2 road win at Michigan. The next game, Raffaele (5’10) had a goal and assisted on the game-winning goal in a 5-3 home win over the Warrirors. On Sunday, he recorded three assists (including another one on the game-winner) in a 5-2 home win over Traverse City. Raffaele either scored or assisted on each of the game winning goals during the weekend. In just six games with the Jr. K-Wings this season, Raffaele is averaging two points per game with 12 points. “Brock has fit like a glove since joining us and his line has been clicking,” said K-Wings head coach Marc Fakler. “He has proven to be a very good team guy and he is very dynamic on the ice. He is a player that is fun to watch play the game.”

3rd Star: Reid Sturos, forward, Alexandria Blizzard
There is no hotter team in the NAHL than the Alexandria Blizzard, and a big reason why has been the play of 19-year-old forward Reid Sturos. The Brighton, Michigan native helped the Blizzard to three more wins over the weekend, including a win on Saturday against division-leading Bismarck. For the weekend, Sturos (6’2/180) recorded six points (3 goals, 3 assists) and was a +3 in three weekend wins. Sturos began the week with an assist in a 3-1 home win over Minot on Thursday. The next night, Sturos recorded a power play goal, this time in a 6-2 home win over the Minotauros. However, Sturos saved his best game of the weekend (and maybe of the year) for Saturday night’s clash with Bismarck. Sturos had two goals and two assists in a 6-4 win over the Bobcats. For the season, Sturos has recorded 29 points in just 31 games played with the Blizzard this season. “Reid has been great since his arrival here after the Showcase and he understands how to contribute and buys into our team concept,” said Blizzard head coach Doc DelCastillo. “He is a rare combination of size and speed that he puts to good use on a nightly basis.”

Other players nominated were (alphabetical): Jayson Angus, forward, New Mexico Mustangs – Chris Bond, defenseman, Topeka Roadrunners – Mikhail Bushinski, forward, Fresno Monsters – Adam Chapie, forward, New Mexico Mustangs – Lawrence Cornellier, forward, Odessa Jackalopes – Tanner Fahlstedt, forward, Wichita Falls Wildcats – Willie Faust, forward, Odessa Jackalopes – Jordan Greenberg, forward, Texas Tornado – Matt Hansen, forward, Austin Bruins – Trevor Husch, forward, Wenatchee Wild – Truman Landowski, forward, Janesville Jets – Matt Leon, goaltender, Wichita Falls Wildcats – Greg Lewis, goaltender, Wenatchee Wild – Kody Polin, forward, Port Huron Fighting Falcons – Easton Powers, forward, Port Huron Fighting Falcons – Tyler Richter, forward, Bismarck Bobcats – Tomas Sholl, goaltender, Fresno Monsters – Castan Sommer, forward, Bismarck Bobcats – Jordan Watt, forward, Alaska Avalanche – Lucas Whelan, defenseman, Texas Tornado – Oliver Widding-Persson, defenseman, Aberden Wings – Connor Wright, forward, Alaska Avalanche – Marcus Zelzer, goaltender, Aberdeen Wings.

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)

USHL Honors - Week 17

noreply@blogger.com (Nathan Fournier) — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 18:01:00 +0000

Press Release

The United States Hockey League today announced the weekly award winners for the 17th week of the 2011-12 USHL regular season.

Award winners include forward Bryn Chyzyk of the Fargo Force, named recipient of CCM Offensive Player of the Week; defenseman Chris Bradley of Youngstown Phantoms, selected as CCM Defensive Player of the Week; and Zane Gothberg of the Fargo Force who earned honors as Reebok Goaltender of the Week.

Chyzyk scored five points (2g, 3a) and recorded a plus-five rating over three Force victories to extend their winning streak to nine games, equaling a team all-time record. He opened the week scoring a goal in the 4-0 win over Sioux Falls on Monday. The 19-year-old then scored the first goal of the game and assisted on two others in the 5-1 victory against Lincoln on Friday. Chyzyk dished out an assist in Saturday’s 5-2 win vs. Sioux Falls to extend his point streak to five games. The native of Virden, Manitoba is playing in his first USHL season and is currently tied for fifth in the League with 19 goals.

Bradley scored four goals over three games for the Phantoms. He tallied a goal in each period of Saturday’s 8-6 victory against Des Moines. It was the first hat trick by a USHL defenseman since Bryce Aneloski scored three goals for the Cedar Rapids RoughRiders on October 24th, 2009. Bradley had scored just one goal in 27 previous games this season. The 18-year-old followed up by scoring his team’s lone goal in the 3-1 loss to Chicago on Sunday. Bradley is a native of Williamsville, New York and has collected 11 points (5g, 6a) in 29 games for the Phantoms this season. He was also selected to play in the 2012 USHL/NHL Top Prospects Game.

Gothberg allowed just three goals over three starts for the Force and posted a .966 save percentage. He stopped all 27 shots he faced in the 4-0 win vs. Sioux Falls on Monday to record his third shutout of the season. The 19-year-old then made 37 saves, his second highest game total of the season, in the 5-1 victory over Lincoln on Friday. Gothberg finished the week stopping 20 shots in the 5-2 win against Sioux Falls. It was the ninth consecutive victory for the native of Thief River Falls, Minnesota and the 12th victory over his last 13 starts. The Boston Bruins draft pick is currently second among USHL goaltenders in both GAA (2.34) and SV% (.918).

(Nathan can be reached at fourniern@students.nescom.edu)