SJHL Bruins Previewer 2010

Coming to an arena near you e c n e f e D t a e r G

s d r a w r o F t a e r G g n i d n e t al o G t a Gre The pieces are in place, but can the Estevan Bruins live up to the ...

G reat Expectations

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Bruins enter season with great expectations

By Daniel Hendriksen of The Mercury After a disappointing end to last season, the Eagle Drilling Estevan Bruins come into the 2010-11 campaign rebuilt and refocused.

The club took a lot of heat from last year after they traded away some of their top players.

What the public didn’t know was the quality of players coming back to Estevan as the future considerations in those trades.

In those deals, Bruins head coach and general manager Karry Biette brought in three players who competed in the Royal Bank Cup last spring: goaltender Joel Danyluk, who was a top goalie at the tournament; Troy Hunter, who is now the Bruins captain; and Ben Findlay, who is arguably one of the SJHL’s best playmakers.

Also new to the team are veteran defenceman, Joel Kot and Dominic Perrault. Kot, who was just acquired at the end of September from the Dauphin Kings, was widely considered one of the Manitoba Junior Hockey League’s best defencemen. Perrault is a big stay-at-home rearguard with a booming shot from the point. Both Kot and Perrault have spent time in the WHL. In goal, Danyluk will be pushed by backup Shea Cooper. The 19-year-old from South River, Ont. looked excellent in training camp, and if he can remain consistent the Bruins will have a great one-two punch between the pipes.

When you combine the addition of Findlay and Hunter, to the offensively talented players the Bruins already had

The Eagle Drilling Estevan Bruins hope to be celebrating a lot this season.

last year in Dylan Smith and Kyle Johnson, it’s obvious the team won’t have a problem scoring goals.

On defence, the Bruins have nice mix of size and skill. Estevan’s blue line is big with just one defenceman under six feet tall, and the additions of Kot and Perrault will prove very helpful.

Kot is an excellent puck moving defenceman, and quarterbacks the power play, while Perrault uses his big frame to clear the front of the net and shut down opposing offences.

Biette has gone on record numerous times in this young SJHL season, saying that if the Bruins aren’t in the top three at Christmas, he should be fired. That’s the kind of confidence he has in his team, and the expectations he and the Bruins executive have for this year.

“Sky high, there’s no question; I’ve been in

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this position a little more than five years and onice success has eluded us as far as playoff wins go,” he said in a previous interview with The Mercury. “We finished first in the south division a few years ago but the on-ice success is the main focus this year.”

One of the things Biette and his staff tried to address over the offseason was having less player movement in the early months of the season so the team can jell

right off the bat. He says there was way too much movement last season between September and October, so it was tough to build a cohesive unit.

“The biggest difference between this hockey club today and ones from the past is we’re set,” said Biette. “I’ll always look to improve the club but I feel comfortable with the 25 guys we have now. They may all still be here December 1, and the past few seasons, that hasn’t been the case.”

With 18 junior A hockey veterans, including ten 20-year-olds on the roster, the Bruins ooze leadership, but just because you have experience and skillful players doesn’t mean you’re going to win every night.

“We’ve got a pretty good hockey club but the one thing we have to be very aware of is, we’re not going to show up and win just because we have a good team on paper,” Biette said. “We have to really prepare

ourselves and be ready to play every game.”

When it comes to the competition, Biette said he sees Kindersley as another team that should be a contender this season.

Notre Dame, he says will be tough to beat thanks to some quality goaltending and stingy defence, and he feels coaching will keep Weyburn in the mix as well.

It should be an exciting season, and how it all plays out will be interesting to say the least.

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Hunter poised to lead Bruins to playoffs

By Daniel Hendriksen of The Mercury Troy Hunter has pretty much seen it all in Junior A hockey. Now in his third full season of junior A, Hunter has been through the playoffs, won a Manitoba Junior Hockey League title, an Anavet Cup, and played in the final of a Royal Bank Cup. Perhaps that is why the Estevan Bruins coaching staff decided to name the Virden, Manitoba native their team captain this season; after all it’s not as if Karry Biette and Co. had a lack of suitable candidates to choose from.

Hunter, who came to the Bruins as part of a futures deal with the Dauphin Kings, is thrilled to be named captain of the Bruins, especially with the number of veterans and leadership on the roster this season.

“It’s definitely an

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honour to be named captain of this team with all of the leaders we have in the room. Anyone could have been named captain, I thought there was four or five guys that it could have gone to,” Hunter told The Mercury.

Last season Hunter was an integral part of the RBC Cup host team in Dauphin, and the Kings ended up being much more than just hosts.

They beat the La Ronge Ice Wolves in the Anavet Cup and then advanced to the final of the RBC Cup, before losing to Vernon.

Hunter feels his experience in big and important games will prove invaluable this season as captain of the Bruins.

“In the long run, that’s experience you can’t really replace,” he said. “I’ve been there before, I’ve seen some things that some of the other guys haven’t. I’ve been through the play-

o Go

New Bruins captain Troy Hunter brings a wealth of experience to the team.

offs and through some wars.”

The 6’2, 205 lb. forward scored 11 goals and 21 assists to go along with 100 penalty minutes in 56 games with Dauphin last year. He

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also added 11 points and 23 penalty minutes in 13 playoff games.

With the success he’s had in the past, Hunter says he understands there’s added pressure this season as Bruins captain, and he knows Estevan is expected to have a good year, but he

says he’s happy with the team that Biette has put together.

“I like the way our club looks right now, we’ve got two very solid goalies. We’re pretty solid on the back-end, and we’ve got some guys that can put the puck in the net so it should be a good year,” said Hunter.

Hunter has an excellent supporting cast, starting with three experienced alternate captains, including Ben Findlay, who has also been to both the Anavet and RBC Cups.

“I could see us almost splitting the role, he’s (Findlay) been there before too, and he knows what it’s all about, and he’s well respected in the room and on the ice,” said Hunter.

While he prides himself in giving his all

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every game, Hunter will also do whatever he can to assist his teammates, both on and off the ice.

“I like to be pretty vocal in the room and on the bench, keep positive and help guys out if they need anything,” he said. “I don’t let guys get down on themselves and I’ll hold guys accountable too if that’ s what it takes.”

It’s that kind of character that landed Hunter the captaincy, and the kind the Bruins will need if they hope to succeed and go deep into the playoffs this season.

We Are Behind You All The Way!

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It’s October and Hockey is here …. finally!

Hendriksen’s Hearsay If you’re like me and your life revolves around hockey, then you’re probably pretty happy it’s October. I know all the young hockey players are ecstatic to finally get back to it.

I remember growing up that by the time October came around, I was crav-

ing hockey so badly that I could barely stand it. I couldn’t wait to watch it on TV, and play road hockey in my parents’ iced over driveway, but most of all, I couldn’t wait to step back onto the ice.

I lived just outside of the village of Fraser Lake,

Referee shortage looming?

By Daniel Hendriksen of The Mercury Estevan Minor Hockey (EMHA) may be facing a crucial shortage of qualified referees in the future.

Last season eight referees officiated the bulk of the minor hockey games in the area, and that number will likely be decreasing in years to come.

With long-time officials either retiring or refereeing fewer games as they get older, and hardly any new faces enrolling in the referee clinic, the number of qualified officials is becoming frightening low.

EMHA referee in chief Matt Kuntz says measures have been taken to get more people to take the referee clinic and begin officiating, starting with a new rule has been put in place where coaches are required to take the clinic.

“I imagine that will help out with the younger kids, but once you get into the bantam and midget area, we’re really starting to struggle. We pretty much don’t have anybody over 15, so that seems to be the area where we’re really losing it,” said Kuntz. “There are four or five guys, myself included, that have refereed every single midget AA game over the past four years.”

Hockey Saskatchewan has a pilot program that is trying to get young people to continue to referee because while many start, only a handful actually stick with it. EMHA has also increased the rates in which referees are paid to try and entice qualified individuals to stay local, as opposed to leaving town for more money.

“For some of these older guys, why would you stay in Estevan and do a minor hockey game when you can get paid $75 to ref a Big 6 game, plus 45 cents per kilometer, and that’s cash in your pocket?” said

Kuntz.

For obvious reasons, Kuntz says the best officials are hockey players, people who have played in the past because they have the knowledge of the game and the ability to stay with the play. The problem is getting former and current hockey players to continue reffing.

“If you have 10 kids start reffing, you might get one to stick around, and this is a problem that goes back 15 years. How do you get people to want to officiate hockey? It’s not something you can force people into doing; you have to want to do it and that’s a really big problem,” he said. “If there was an answer to get more people out, we’d be doing it, but right now there isn’t a definite solution.”

There is the idea to give parents discounts on their child’s hockey fees if they complete the referee clinic.

While he believes this is a smart idea, Kuntz says you can’t force somebody to do something they don’t want to do.

“If parents have their kids ref hockey this year to get that discount, that’s great but if that kid doesn’t want to ref hockey, he’s not going to come out. He’s going to stop answering the phone or he’s just going to say no when we call him,” Kuntz said.

If the shortage in qualified referees persists, there is a chance that games will have to be played on another date or cancelled all together, and Kuntz says that’s obviously a problem.

“It’s definitely a legitimate worry in the southeast here. Weyburn is down to one, maybe two senior officials,” he said. “What’s going to happen is, you’re either going to get guys who aren’t necessarily groomed enough to be put in that situation or you’re going to have to pay to get guys to come from out of town.

B.C. on the edge of a forest, with a pond just over 100 steps from my house. In the winter, after the pond froze over, my dad would pick a chunk of the pond that he thought was the safest, and clear it so that my brother and I, and all of our friends could play hockey after school.

Some of my most memorable birthdays were spent playing hockey on that pond and then roasting hot dogs before getting

back out there for another game or two before it got too dark.

My friends and I loved the game so much that we played street hockey in front of my parents’ house until we were 17. We didn’t care if it was “uncool” at that age, we loved it and we played almost everyday.

When we got into midget hockey and didn’t have enough players to ice a team, it was this same group of friends that drove to

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Vanderhoof – the next town over – twice a week for practice and every weekend for games. Not only were we commuting several times per week, we were also joining a team that we grew up playing against.

Needless to say, it was a rocky start, but we eventually made friends with the guys from Vanderhoof, who had been our biggest rivals for the previous 12 years. In fact, some of my best friends today are guys

I met playing hockey.

I truly believe that hockey is the greatest game on earth. You make friends, it builds character and selfesteem, it relieves stress, and most importantly, it’s fun. So to all the minor hockey players in Estevan: If hockey is something you love, never ever stop playing, because you’ll regret it.

Good luck to all the local teams and let’s hope it’s a great season!

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TEAM BY TEAM PREVIEW - Sherwood Conference

Weyburn Red Wings

Notre Dame Hounds 2009-10

2009-10 Record: 39-13-0-6 (84 points, 1st Sherwood Conference) Playoffs: Lost conf. semifinal to Yorkton 4-1 Leading Scorer: Rhett Bly (58-29-41-70) Starting Goalie: AJ Whiffen (22-5-0-3 .924%) Goals for: 193 Goals against: 152

Record: 32-20-2-4 (70 points, 2nd Sherwood) Playoffs: Lost conf. semifinal to Kindersley 4-0 Leading Scorer: Travis Janke (56-36-47-83) Staring Goalie: Russell Abbott (15-11-1-1, .897% Goals for: 178 Goals against: 180

2010/11

2010/11

Coach: Dwight McMillan (35th season) Returnees: 1990 F Rodney Cowie, 1990 F Shawn Cowie 1990 F Brock Appleyard, 1991 F Drew George, 1990 F Lucas Ulmer, 1990 D TJ Wees, 1990 D Rhys Thomas, 1990 D Tanner McCall, 1990 D Dmitry Adams, 1991 F Daniel Adams Losses: 1989 F Rhett Bly, 1989 F Tyler Penny, 1989 F Brennan Wrigley, 1989 D Andrew Perrault, 1989 Matt McNamee, 1989 D Davis Brown, 1989 D Lee Klapp, 1989 G AJ Whiffen, 1990 F Forrest Dell, 1991 F Greg Ferguson, 1990 D Joey Bergen Incoming: 1991 G Mitch Kilgore, 1991 G Lucas Felbel, 1990 G Ryley Hengen, 1991 F Brayden Kmita, 1992 F Kevin Mann, 1992 F Zane Weal, 1991 Coltyn Sanderson, 1991 F Keegan Bruce, 1991 F Jesse Ross, 1992 F Justin Dalebozik, 1992 F Kyle Vogel, 1992 F Jackson Schneider, 1992 D Jens Johnson, 1992 D Ryan Whitell, 1991 D Dylan Coupal, 1992 D Cole Klippenstein, 1991 D Kevin Morrison, 1993 D Carter Struthers, Outlook: The Red Wings lost a lot of talent from last year’s club that placed first in the conference but was upset in the first round by Yorkton. Up front, Drew George and the Cowie brothers — Shawn and Rodney — will be asked to provide the bulk of the offence. Zane Weal heads up their large rookie class.

On defence, veterans Rhys Thomas and Dmitry Adams lead the way.

Both Ryan Whitell and Cole Klippenstein were very impressive in the preseason.

The club’s biggest question mark is in net as the graduation of A.J. Whiffen and Tanner Erickson leave the Wings without a bona fide starter. Mitch Kilgore, who was the third string goalie last year, is apparently getting first crack at the starter’s job. Estevan resident Riley Hengen is also in camp.

Although they have holes to fill, no club is better at making inseason adjustments than the Wings. Expect them to be among the top three.

Coach: Kevin White (1st season) Returnees: 1992 F Trevor Cameron, 1990 F David Lerner, 1990 F Trevor Milner, 1990 F AJ Moore, 1990 F Patrick ThompsonGale, 1991 F Brendan Dishko, 1990 F Austin Lauder, 1991 F Todd Christian, 1992 Troy Murray, 1992 D Mitch Boucher, 1991 D Dylan Babe, 1992 D Carson Grolla, 1991 D James Howden, 1991 G Russell Abbott, Matthew Smidt Losses: 1989 F Travis Janke, 1989 F Kyle Ireland, 1989 F Andy Smith, 1989 F Thomas Williams, 1989 D Blayne Stevenson, 1989 D Kevin Carpenter, 1989 D Travis Montgomery, 1991 F Tristan Houde Incoming: 1993 F Kale Derkson, 1992 F Catlin Foley, 1992 F Josh Bruha, 1992 F Clinton Pirio, 1992 D MacKenzie Ryan, 1993 D Blaine Thompson, 1992 D Marcus Cheng, 1991 D Justin Moir, 1992 D Paul Brisebois Outlook: As is usually the case in Wilcox, there was a lot of turnover in the off-season. Head coach and GM Darren Evjen packed up and left for Swift Current while Travis Janke, who led the SJHL in scoring last season has graduated.

New head coach Kevin White will have to rely on the likes of Trevor Cameron and Patrick Thompson-Gale to lead a fairly young group of forwards. On the back end, Troy Murray and James Howden return after strong rookie campaigns.

The Hounds’ strength is in net, where Russell Abbot and Matthew Smidt return.

As always, expect Notre Dame to ice a young club that gets by on hard work and tight defensive play. Still, they might be in tough in what is expected to be a strong year for the Sherwood Conference.

Good luck this season Bruins!

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TEAM BY TEAM PREVIEW - Sherwood Conference

Kindersley Klippers

Melville Millionaires

2009-10

2009-10

Record: 31-21-3-3 (68 points, 3rd Sherwood) Playoffs: Lost conf. final to Yorkton 4-3 Leading Scorer: Adam Dommett (58-36-24-60) Staring Goalie: Josh Thorimebrt (26-14-2-2, .917%) Goals for: 178 Goals against: 183

Record: 29-26-2-1 (61 points, 4th Sherwood) Playoffs: Lost in Survivor Series to Yorkton Leading Scorer: Logan Herauf (58-27-38-65) Staring Goalie: Zach Rakochy (7-11-0-1, .914%) Goals for: 204 Goals against: 190

2010/11

2010/11

Coach: Larry Wintoneak (7th season) Returnees: 1990 F Andrew Dommett, 1991 F Taylor Duzan, 1990 F Braeden Adamyk, 1991 F Tanner Exner, 1990 F Johnny Calkins, 1991 F Ryan Benn, 1991 F Jesse Mysiorek, 1991 F Beau Taylor, 1991 F Jordon Hoffman, 1991 F Taylor Wasden, 1990 Sanfred King, 1990 D Kurt Leedahl, 1990 Jonathon Sonntag, 1992 D Sean Flanagan, 1991 D Riley Down, 1990 D Lance Tabin, 1990 G Scott Hellyer Losses: 1989 F Jordan Braid, 1989 D Steven Turner, 1989 F Kevin Clark, 1992 G Josh Thorimbert, 1991 D David Ahl, 1991 F Justin Bertow Incoming: 1992 F Brett Penner, 1992 F Kiley Long, 1992 F Pearce Gourley, 1992 F Justin Gerwing, 1993 F Tanner Kissick, 1992 D Jeff Bartel, 1992 D David Haaf, 1992 G Justin McDonald Outlook: The Klippers are the odds on favourite to win the Sherwood Conference. They have a great returning cast up front and a couple of horses on defence to lead the way.

The line of Andrew Dommett, Johnny Calkins and Braeden Adamyk will be among the league’s best. However Dommett is expected to miss at least a month with a broken jaw. Sanfred King will also be counted on for offence.

Johnathon Sonntag and Kurt Leedahl give them a pair of great building blocks on defence, while Sean Flanagan will be among the best young blue liners in the league. In net Scott Hellyer was handed the starter’s job after Josh Thorimbert earned an NCAA scholarship after an impressive rookie campaign.

If the Klippers have one weakness it might be a lack of depth. They are top heavy at both forward and defence and will need some youngters to step up and provide some secondary scoring. The loss of Dommett is huge, but not crippling.

Coach: Jamie Fiesel (7th season) Returnees: 1991 Michael Desjarlais, 1991 F Justin Hollinger, 1990 F Dane Bonish, 1990 Michael Rogoschewsky, 1991 F mark Owen, 1991 F Mark Owen, 1990 F Cody Hanson, 1991 F Rob Lazo, 1990 F Brayden Metz, 1991 D Bob Pond, 1990 D Craig Karius, 1991 Tyson Newell, 1993 G Zach Rakochy Losses: 1989 F Matt Kinnunen, 1989 F Michael Jordan, 1989 D Austin Krahenbil, 1989 D Jordan Reeve, 1989 F Tyson Melnychuk, 1989 F Colton Kennedy, 1989 F Cody Gross, 1989 G Deszi Wiens, 1990 F Logan Herauf Incoming: 1993 F Andre Parker, 1992 F Dustin Eberle, 1992 F Roger Tagoona, 1992 F Gordic Tham, 1992 F Connor Lowe-Wylde, 1991 F Chris Gartner, 1991 D Steven Terryu, 1992 D Dylan Hanson, 1992 D Tyler Bird, 1993 D Jordan Paddock, 1992 D Jared Williamson, 1990 G Kyle Jahrus Outlook: With a new arena on the horizon, the Millionaires are building for the future. They enter the season with six 20-year-olds on the roster, all of whom are likely to be trade bait as the year moves on.

Brayden Metz was named captain and along with Dane Bonish and Carter Hanson will be the focal point of the offence. Early in the year, rookies Roger Tagoona and Godric Tham have shown they might be solid contributors at the junior A level.

On defence, Craig Karius is the lone 20-year-old. Veterans Bob Pond and Tyson Newell will also be counted on to play some major minutes.

Head coach Jamie Fiesel thought he was set between the pipes after adding WHL veteran Kyle Jarhaus to team with impressive 17-yearold Zach Rakochy. However, both have struggled in the early going.

After contending for the past few seasons, the Mils are in a reloading mode. They will likely take it on the chin this season and attempt to load up for the opening of their new facility.

GOOD LUCK BRUINS! Here’s To Another Great Season!

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TEAM BY TEAM PREVIEW - Sherwood Conference

Yorkton Terriers 2009-10 Record: 24-30-3-1 (52 points, 5th Sherwood) Playoffs: Lost SJHL final to La Ronge 4-2 Leading Scorer: Jordan Menke (58-20-24-44) Staring Goalie: Devin Peters (17-17-1-0, .909%) Goals for: 144 Goals against: 173

2010/11 Coach: Trent Cassan (1st season) Returnees: 1991 F Brent Strubel, 1990 Rylan McDonnell, 1992 F Nathan Murray, 1991 F Riley Paterson, 1990 F Keon Vick, 1990 D Blaine Tendler, 1990 D Kurtis Decker, 1991 D Kelly Leismeister, 1991 D Drew McDermott, 1990 G Devin Peters, 1992 Warren Shymko Losses: 1989 F Jordan Menke, 1989 F Adam Moar, 1989 F Kevin Stringfellow, 1989 F Cody Zubko, 1989 F Nick Dietrich, 1989 F Ryan Griffiths, 1989 F Troy Smukowich, 1989 F Kyle Miller, 1990 G Luke Boechler, 1990 F Torey Stott, 1990 D Clark Byczynski, 1992 D Austin Bourhis, 1992 D John Neibrandt Incoming: 1992 F Brendan Poncelet, 1992 F Kyle McLeod, 1991 F Justin Lamontagne, 1991 Clarke Breitkreuz, 1992 F Jeremy Johnson, 1991 F Sam Prpich, 1991 Kevin Cann, 1992 F Zak Majkowski, 1990 F Gary Rai, 1992 F Jordan Hirano, 1991 F Robbie Ciolfi, 1990 F Craig Eisenhut, 1991 D Sam Rockwell, 1991 D Troy Dumais, 1990 D Myles Cameron, 1993 D Devin McMullen, Outlook: The Terriers enter the season with a bit of a dilemma. They don’t appear to be among the contenders in the Sherwood, but they are also not bad enough to blow up the team and rebuild.

Up front, they are likely to be hard pressed to score once again as they failed to add any true offensive weapons in the off-season. Clarke Breitkreuz is back from a stint in the WHL and he will need a big year if the Terriers hope to contend.

On defence, Yorkton went from having the best group of returning blue liners to having some serious question marks thanks to defections to the WHL. Blaine Tendler is a rock and has been named captain. Kurtis Decker is back for his third season with his hometown club.

Devin Peters is back in net and will give Yorkton a chance to win every night, provided they can find some offence. Warren Shymko is his backup after playing in three different leagues as a 17-year-old.

The Terriers struggled last year in the regular season but were the Cinderella club in the playoffs, falling in the finals to La Ronge. With a very similar club, it would not be a shock to see them follow the same script.

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Estevan Bruins 2009-10 Record: 18-36-2-2 (40 points, 6th Sherwood) Playoffs: Did not qualify Leading Scorer: Dylan Smith (45-19-19-38) Staring Goalie: Goals for: 160 Goals against: 209

2010/11 Coach: Karry Biette (6th season) Returnees: 1992 F Michael Hengen, 1990 F Kyle Johnson, 1992 F Dylan Smith, 1990 F Mark Cross, 1992 F Justin Waskewitch, 1991 D Hayden Warrack, 1990 D Ty Ariss, 1990 D Lucas Stubel, 1990 D Taylor Epp, 1991 D Brett Rock, 1990 Christopher Neurauter, 1991 D Tyler Spencer Losses: Incoming: 1992 F Josh Jelinski, 1992 F Kyle Trimp, 1990 F Ben Findlay, 1990 F Troy Hunter, 1991 F Richard Hubscher, 1992 F Cole Olson, 1992 F Ryan Ostertag, 1991 D Dominic Perrault, 1990 G Joel Danyluk, 1991 G Shea Cooper, 1991 D Taylor Bramwell, 1992 D Eric Baldwin, 1990 D Joel Kot Outlook: Things are looking up for the Bruins after finishing in last place a year ago. Estevan has been built to win this season, and the club’s management has a win at all costs attitude.

The Bruins have brought in a ton of leadership and experience, including goaltender Joel Danyluk, and forwards Ben Findlay and Troy Hunter. All three players competed in the Royal Bank Cup last year and are hungry to do so again. Danyluk already has an SJHL goalie of the week award this season, Hunter has been named the team captain and Findlay will be looked at to produce offensively.

More recently, head coach and general manager Karry Biette has been tinkering with the club’s defence, brining in two highly regarded defencemen in Dominic Perrault and Joel Kot. With no glaring weaknesses, the Bruins should be one of the SJHL’s top teams this season.

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Ryan Anderson #10 Hometown: Wainwright, AB Birth Year: 1990 Position: Left Wing Height: 6’3” Weight: 215 Last Year’s Team: Estevan Bruins Last Year’s Stats: 52GP 11G 23A 34PTS 67PIM

Mark Cross #18 Hometown: Strasbourg, SK Birth Year: 1990 Position: Centre Height: 6’1” Weight: 190 lb.

Last Year’s Team: Estevan Bruins Last Year’s Stats: 57GP 11G 16A 27PTS 89PIM

Troy Hunter #15 Hometown: Virden, MB Birth Year: 1990 Position: Right Wing Height: 6’2” Weight: 204 lb.

Last Year’s Team: Dauphin Kings Last Year’s Stats: 56GP 11G 21A 32PTS 100PIM

Cris Neurauter Hometown: Red Deer, AB Birth Year: 1990 Position: Defence Height: 6’0” Weight: 170 lb.

Last Year’s Team: Estevan Bruins Last Year’s Stats: 40GP 4G 15A 19PTS 58PIM

Dylan Smith #14 Hometown: Big River, SK Birth Year: 1992 Position: Right Wing Height: 6’1” Weight: 180 lb.

Last Year’s Team: Estevan Bruins Last Year’s Stats: 45GP 19G 19A 38PTS 24PIM

Ty Ariss #8 Hometown: Regina, SK Birth Year: 1990 Position: Defence Height: 6’1” Weight: 195 lb.

Last Year’s Team: Estevan Bruins Last Year’s Stats: 48GP 2G 11A 13PTS 138PIM

Joel Danyluk #1 Hometown: Yorkton, SK Birth Year: 1990 Position: Goalie Height: 6’0” Weight: 185 lb.

Last Year’s Team: La Ronge Ice Wolves Last Year’s Stats: 34GP 8W 10L 2T 1SO .904%

Eric Baldwin #5 Hometown: Grosse Isle, MB Birth Year: 1992 Position: Defence Height: 6’0” Weight: 195 Last Year’s Team: Central Plains Capitals Last Year’s Stats: 44GP 3G 10A 13PTS 42PIM

Taylor Epp #19 Hometown: Moose Jaw, SK Birth Year: 1990 Position: Defence Height: 5’10” Weight: 180 Last Year’s Team: Estevan Bruins Last Year’s Stats: 50GP 5G 15A 20PTS 16PIM

Josh Jelinski #2

Hometown: Deloraine, MB Birth Year: 1992 Position: Right Wing Height: 5’11” Weight: 180 lb.

Last Year’s Team: Southwest Cougars Last Year’s Stats: 44GP 30G 29A 59PTS 26PIM

Tyler Spencer #24 Hometown: Estevan, SK Birth Year: 1991 Position: Defence Height: 6’2” Weight: 190 lb.

Last Year’s Team: Estevan Bruins Last Year’s Stats: 55GP 6G 17A 23PTS 47PIM

Taylor Bramwell #6 Hometown: Cartwright, MB Birth Year: 1991 Position: Defence Height: 6’2” Weight: 195 lb.

Last Year’s Team: Tri Town Thunder Last Year’s Stats: 39GP 12G 24A 36PTS 30PIM

Ben Findlay #7 Hometown: Regina, SK Birth Year: 1990 Position: Centre Height: 5’7” Weight: 170 lb.

Last Year’s Team: La Ronge Ice Wolves Last Year’s Stats: 57GP 15G 39A 54PTS 89PIM

Kyle Johnson #11

Hometown: Avonlea, SK Birth Year: 1992 Position: Left Wing Height: 6’0” Weight: 188 lb.

Last Year’s Team: Moose Jaw Generals Last Year’s Stats: 43GP 12G 9A 21PTS 62PIM

Cole Olson #23

OCTOBER, 2009

Hometown: Buena Vista, SK Birth Year: 1990 Position: Left Wing Height: 6’0” Weight: 185 lb.

Last Year’s Team: Estevan Bruins Last Year’s Stats: 58GP 18G 18A 36 PTS 65PIM

Ryan Ostertag #25 Hometown: Regina, SK Birth Year: 1992 Position: Centre Height: 6’2” Weight: 195 Last Year’s Team: Tisdale Trojans Last Year’s Stats: 43G 20G 21A 41PTS 30PIM

Lucas Stubel #17 Hometown: Estevan, SK Birth Year: 1990 Position: Defence Height: 6’4” Weight: 200 lb.

Last Year’s Team: Estevan Bruins Last Year’s Stats: 53GP 2G 17A 19 PTS 63PIM

Dominic Perrault #4 Hometown: Regina, SK Birth Year: 1991 Position: Defence Height: 6’3” Weight: 210 lb.

Last Year’s Team: Battlefords North Stars Last Year’s Stats: 51GP 5G 11A 16PTS 61PIM

Kyle Trimp #3 Hometown: Regina, SK Birth Year: 1992 Position: Forward Height: 6’3” Weight: 203 lb.

Last Year’s Team: Yorkton Harvest Last Year’s Stats: 44GP 18G 12A 30PTS 76PIM

Shea Cooper #30 Hometown: South River, ON Birth Year: 1991 Position: Goalie Height: 5’11” Weight: 162 lb.

Last Year’s Team: Couchiching Terriers Last Year’s Stats: 38GP 22W 12L 1T 2SO .904%

Michael Hengen #9 Hometown: Estevan, SK Birth Year: 1992 Position: Left Wing Height: 5’11” Weight: 170 lb.

Last Year’s Team: Estevan Bruins Last Year’s Stats: 56GP 4G 7A 11PTS 55PIM

Joel Kot #21 Hometown: Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan Birth Year: 1990 Position: Defence Height: 5’11” Weight: 192 lb.

Last Year’s Team: Dauphin Kings Last Year’s Stats: 14GP 1G 10A 11PTS 12PIM

Brett Rock #20 Hometown: Redwater, AB Birth Year: 1991 Position: Defence Height: 6’5” Weight: 210 lb.

Last Year’s Team: Estevan Bruins Last Year’s Stats: 48GP 1G 7A 8PTS 21PIM

Justin Waskewitch #22 Hometown: Cut Knife, SK Birth Year: 1992 Position: Right Wing Height: 5’11” Weight: 178 lb.

Last Year’s Team: Estevan Bruins Last Year’s Stats: 39GP 8G 7A 15PTS 12PIM

MEET THE 2010-11 ESTEVAN BRUINS

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TEAM BY TEAM PREVIEW - Bauer Conference

Flin Flon Bombers

Battlefords North Stars

2009-10

2009-10

Record: 37-17-1-3 (78 points, 1st Bauer Conference) Playoffs: Lost conf. semifinal to La Ronge 4-2 Leading Scorer: Mike Rey (58-27-51-78) Starting Goalie: Matt Weninger (29-11-1-1, .925%) Goals for: 214 Goals against: 157

Record: 35-19-1-3 (74 points, 2nd Bauer) Playoffs: Lost conf. final to La Ronge 4-2 Leading Scorer: Chad Filteau (54-23-43-66) Staring Goalie: Kyle Birch (24-13-1-1, .894% Goals for: 228 Goals against: 196

2010/11

2010/11

Coach: Mike Reagan (4th season) Returnees: 1990 F Deven Stillar, 1991 F Andrew Johnston, 1990 D Patrick Sitko, 1990 F Ryan Fox, 1990 D Tanner Korchinski, 1990 C Doug McLeod, 1991 D David Roper, 1992 F Jesse Mychan, 1990 F Corey Tyrell, 1991 D Jay Young, 1991 G Klynt Spencer Losses: 1989 F Mike Rey, 1989 D Taylor Thiessen, 1989 D Michael Young, 1989 F David Dykstra, 1989 F Alex Lamontagne, 1989 F Dominic Martel, 1989 D Brennen Cox, 1989 G Matt Weninger, 1990 F Mathieu Lecours, 1990 F Brody Haygarth, 1990 F Ben Bitz, 1991 F Denis Restoule, 1991 Cody Dupre Incoming: 1992 F Luke Kasteel, 1991 F Danny Merth, 1992 F Dylan Balaski, 1994 F Dillan McCombie, 1992 F Riley Storzuk, 1993 F Cameron Blair, 1992 F Brendan Gamblin, 1993 F Beau Stewart, 1991 D Kyle Alexander, 1991 D Brendon Phelps, 1991 D Philippe Adam, 1992 D Stephan Virtannen, 1992 D Conrad Szydlowski, 1990 G P.J. Musico, 1991 G Randy Graham Outlook: The Bombers are another team that has had recent regular season success but have gotten nowhere in the playoffs. They have a nice group returning and coach Mike Reagan has proven to be a good recruiter. so it is likely they will be back among the contenders.

Devan Stillar has the potential to put up some huge numbers. He is joined by Andrew Johnston, Doug McLeod and Ryan Fox. On defence, they have returnees Patrick Sitko and Jay Young to lead the way. Stefan Virtanen was signed from the defunct Williams Lake Timberwolves of the BCHL and is expected to be a big addition.

The goaltending situation has yet to sort itself out. P.J. Musico was just acquired from Nanaimo of the BCHL. He will battle returnee Klynt Spencer for playing time.

The Bombers again have some solid pieces to build off. A key for them will be finding a No. 1 goalie. There is every reason to believe they should battle with Battlefords and La Ronge for the conference title.

Coach: Ken Pearson (3rd season) Returnees: 1990 F Josh Daley, 1991 F Brett Miller, 1990 F Shay Neufeld, 1991 D Woody Klassen, 1991 F Blake Tatchell, 1990 D Cody Folstad, 1991 F Nathan Tormac, 1991 F Boyd Wakelin 1990 F Tony Oak, 1990 G Kyle Birch Losses: 1989 F Chad Filteau, 1989 F Blake Peake, 1989 F Mitch Wall, 1989 D Jesse Lebreton, 1989 D Brody Malek, 1989 D Coleman Brodbin, 1989 F Troy Watt, 1989 D Grant Fahnhorst, 1991 F Ward Szucki, 1992 F Dane Muench, 1991 D Dominic Perrault, Incoming: 1992 F Shayne Morrissey, 1992 F Tim Rollins, 1992 F Tanner Schwab, 1990 F Colin Phaneuf, 1992 F Cody Antos, 1992, F Kyle Hall, 1992 F Calder Neufeld, 1991 D Cade Kimery, 1991 D Taylor Egan, 1992 Zach MacLellan, 1992 Myles Baptiste, 1990 D Jacob Chiblow, 1991 G Graham Hildebrand Outlook: After years of rebuilding, the Stars appear ready to take the next step. They have a large group of returning players and are considered by many the favourite in the north.

At forward, Brett Miller, Blake Tatchell and Josh Daley will be counted on for their offensive talents. Tony Oak will supply the toughness. This a sold group and coach Ken Pearson should be able to roll four lines at opponents.

Defence is a slight concern, largely because of a lack of depth. Woody Klassen is the unquestioned leader while BCHL castoff Zach MacLellan has been strong through the first few games.

In net, the tandem of Kyle Birch and Graham Hildebrand should provide solid goaltending once Hildebrand returns from injury.

There is a lot to like with this team. They have a strong group of forwards and have already been racking up a lot of goals. However, they have had trouble keeping them out of their own net, something that could change quickly with the return of Hildebrand and the addition of a veteran d-man.

Good Luck This Season!

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TEAM BY TEAM PREVIEW - Bauer Conference

Melfort Mustangs

La Ronge Ice Wolves

2009-10

2009-10

Record: 30-21-2-5 (67 points, 3rd Bauer) Playoffs: Lost conf. semifinal to Battlefords 4-1 Leading Scorer: Blake Hietala (57-31-32-63) Staring Goalie: Chris Ward (22-10-0-3, .900%) Goals for: 199 Goals against: 189

Record: 29-21-3-5 (64 points, 4th Bauer) Playoffs: Won Credit Union Cup Leading Scorer: Doug Lindensmith (56-28-34-62) Staring Goalie: Adam Bartko (21-10-2-3, .917%) Goals for: 209 Goals against: 194

2010/11

2010/11

Coach: Darrell Mann (7th season) Returnees: 1991 F Jesse Mireau, 1991 F Darren Gillen, 1991 F Adam Wihak, 1990 F Owen Roschuk, 1991 F Johnny Badura, 1991 F Stefan Herrington, 1991 Brant Henry-Norton, 1990 F Cole Gibson, 1990 F Regan Nabseth, 1991 D Brett Kipling, 1990 D Josh Martin, 1990 D Lee Christensen, 1991 D Bo Lenard, 1991 D Mitch Berg, 1992 G Jay Hudon Losses: 1989 F Blake Hietala, 1989 F Todd Chinova, 1989 F Brant Harris, 1989 Gary Childerhose, 1989 D Harrison Tribble, 1989 F Kevin Knopp, 1989 G Chris Ward, 1990 D Josh Martin, 1992 D Denton King Incoming: 1992 F Kyle Threndyle, 1992 F Brett Lafond, 1991 F Connor Bradshaw, 1991 Matt Dochylo, 1993 F Garrett Legare, 1990 F Mike Kesserling, 1990 F Brody Haygarth, 1990 D Zach Johnson, 1990 D Sam Gilbert, 1990 G Colin Fernandes, 1991 G Jesse Ehnisz Outlook: The same question remains in Melfort: will this finally be the year they break through? They have had a lot of good teams under head coach Darrell Mann but have yet to go anywhere in the playoffs.

The Mustangs have a wealth of talent at forward, led by former Bruin Brody Haygarth and Reagan Nabseth. Haygarth could be among the league leaders when all is said and done.

On defence, they are a bit thin. Mitch Berg and Lee Chistensen are the unquestioned leaders and two of the league’s best.

The goaltending situation is certainly in flux. At press time, they had four goalies on the roster, including Charles Corsi who they added through trade.

Melfort has a lot of good pieces in place and if Corsi pans out in net, they might cause some problems for clubs. However, they are going to need some success if the volatile Mann is to keep his job.

Coach: Bob Beatty (7th season) Returnees: 1990 F Nathan Souchotte, 1991 F Marc Andre Carre, 1990 F Taylor Piller, 1990 F Taylor Greenbank, 1990 F Travis Eggum, 1990 F Richard Cameron, 1991 Aaron Enns, 1990 F Doug Lindensmith, 1990 D Phil Belanger, 1990 D Dayton Fossum, Losses: 1989 D Mike Alexander, 1989 F Liam Brennan, 1989 D Dustin Stevenson, 1989 F Aaron Decorby, 1989 F Travis Gordon, 1989 F Dan Conacher, 1989 D Colton MacPherson, 1989 D Kirk Moore, 1989 Leo Lacourciere, 1990 F Ben Findlay, 1990 G Joel Danyluk, 1990 D Robert Monfore Incoming: 1990 F Justin Remillard, 1992 F Nathan Boyer, 1992 F Graham Smerek, 1991 F Justin Ducharme, 1991 F Dean Kmiecik, 1992 D Zane Morin, 1991 D Dusty Iron, 1990 D Dylan Thomas, 1991 D Ben Bula, 1992 D Alex Vandenameele, 1992 D Phillipe ClichĂŠ, 1991 Kaydon Trumbley, 1992 G Austin Vargo, 1992 G Myles Hovdebo Outlook: The defending league champions have a serious chance at repeating. They obviously lost a lot of talent after loading up last year but the cupboard is far from bare. They also have arguably the best coach in the SJHL in Bob Beatty, who is back for another season.

Doug Lindensmith has a very good chance at leading the league in scoring, especially with Marc Andre Carre as one of his linemates.

Travis Eggum is also off to a great start.

The Wolves took the biggest hit on defence with the loss of Mike Alexander and Dustin Stevenson. They will need someone such as veteran Phil Belanger to step up and anchor the blue line.

Adam Bartko is back in net and will likely get the bulk of the playing barring a trade.

Although the Ice Wolves have holes, Beatty is a slick GM and seems to pull players out of every little nook and cranny. He will need to do that again but La Ronge is just a player or two away from battling for a second straight title.

DOREEN EAGLES, MLA ESTEVAN CONSTITUENCY OFFICE #1 - 1104 5th Street, Estevan Phone: 1-306-634-7311 Toll Free: 1-866-284-7496

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TEAM BY TEAM PREVIEW - Bauer Conference

Humboldt Broncos

Nipawin Hawks

2009-10

2009-10

Record: 24-26-1-7 (56 points, 5th Bauer) Playoffs: Lost in Survivor Series to La Ronge Leading Scorer: Justin Buzzeo (54-20-33-53) Staring Goalie: Andrew Bodnarchuk (18-14-1-5, .916%) Goals for: 160 Goals against: 179

Record: 20-31-6-1 (47 points, 6th Bauer) Playoffs: Did not qualify Leading Scorer: Matthew Spafford (56-27-39-66) Staring Goalie: Goals for: 172 Goals against: 237

2010/11 Coach: Dean Brockman (6th season) Returnees: 1991 F Brenden Kotyk, 1990 F Steve Taylor, 1990 F Nick Keller, 1991 F Taylor Johnson, 1990 F Riley Gillies, 1990 F Spencer Braaten, 1990 F Justin Buzzeo, 1993 D Tanner Clark, 1990 D Kenton Valliant, 1992 D Josh Roach, 1990 D Colton Allan, 1990 G Andrew Bodnarchuk Losses: 1989 F Cameron Gibson, 1989 F Shawn Hunter, 1989 D Kyle Cowan, 1989 F Bryce Walker, 1989 F Kirk Belyk, 1990 F Steven Taylor, 1992 F Troy Gasper, 1991 D Garrett Leedahl, 1990 D Calum Macleod, 1992 F Neil Landry, 1991 F Spencer Baht, 1991 D Cade Kimery, 1990 G Kirk Croswell Incoming: 1992 F Adam Zbitniff, 1991 F Dayton Shaw, 1992 F Adam Antkowiak, 1991 F Anthony Nobili, 1992 F Matt Glowa, 1992 F Brett Pinder, 1991 F Pat Tran, 1992 F Ryan Magalis, 1992 F Brett Bieber, 1992 D Kameron Ballas, 1992 D Nathan Hudema, 1992 D Jake Rawlins, 1993 D Logan Sproule, 1992 D Francis Rodrigue, 1991 D Chase Warton, 1992 G Matt Hryniw, 1992 G Matt MacIntosh Outlook: This is a really interesting time for the Broncos. They have a team that could very well contend for a league title. However they are also the hosts of the 2012 Royal Bank Cup and will have to decide whether or not they should trade some of their talented veterans to build for the tournament, or keep them and make a run at the title.

At forward, Spencer Braaten and Justin Buzzeo are two of the most talented players in the league. They will also be two of the most sought after should the Broncos look to deal. There are also a lot of talented rookies on the Humboldt roster, among them Matt Glowa of Brandon.

They are not nearly as well off on defence. There is just one 20-year-old on the roster but they do possess a lot of talented rookies who after an adjustment period should produce.

The Broncos’ biggest bargaining chip could well be netminder Andrew Bodnarchuk. He is arguably the league’s best goalie and is a player that could push a contending team over the top.

What head coach/GM Dean Brockman decides to do with his veterans will determine the trajectory of the Bronco’s season. They got off to a solid start and will be a team to watch all season long.

2010/11 Coach: Doug Johnson (1st season) Returnees: 1990 F Matthew Spafford, 1990 F Jonathan Ceci, 1991 F Jeff Lorenz, 1992 F Tanner Dusyk, 1990 D Scott Brkich, 1990 D Cory Hodgins, 1991 F Brendan Tash, 1990 D Brant Remenda, 1990 F Matt Geurts, 1991 F Cody Hall, 1992 F Stuart Holland, 1991 D Scott Bollefer, 1991 G Brody Hoffman, 1990 D Brentt Becker Losses: 1991 F Skyler Dunser, 1991 D Patrick Howey, 1990 D Mitchell Wourms Incoming: 1990 F Darius Cole, 1992 F Brody Zerr, 1992 Eli Lichtenwald, 1991 F Dan Szerlip, 1992 F Spencer Hall, 1991 Adam Reichert, 1991 F Steven Jean, 1992 D Joey Moretto, 1992 D Sean MaCallister, 1992 D Tyler Durdle, 1993 G Stephen Klein Outlook: There is very little reason to get excited about the Hawks this season. Although they added some talent in late trades, they still appear woefully short of contending.

Matthew Spafford is their best returning forward and will need a huge season if Nipawin is to make some noise. Jeff Lorenz came over in a late season trade from Flin Flon and is a big body that is tough to play against. Because they changed coaches in the off-season their recruiting was limited to a pair of American born players whith whom new coach Doug Johnson was familiar with.

On defence, hometown boy Brant Remenda is among the leaders.

Scott Bollefor and Scott Brkich are big bodies that will need to step up.

In net, the Hawks need to replace Ryan Kerpan who had a strong finish after a trade to Nipawin. Brody Hoffman saw time as Kerpan’s backup last year.

Unless we are missing the boat entirely, the Hawks seem destined to be battling for a spot in the Survivor Series. They just have too many holes to fill.

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Bruins to capitalize on new dressing room

By Daniel Hendriksen of The Mercury When the Estevan Bruins eventually move out of the 53-year-old Civic Auditorium and into Spectra Place, they will be benefiting from a slew of upgrades as far as amenities and equipment go. One of the amenities they will be looking to capitalize on is a brand new, updated dressing room facility.

The Bruins are currently fundraising to help to pay for the new dressing room in order to avoid dipping into the organization’s general revenue. Their goal is to raise $120,000 to pay for the room and everything that goes along with it.

The Bruins Alumni donated $40,000 this past summer, and the club has since received more contributions from members of the community, including $7,500 from Rod Fagerheim

and family, and Carson Energy Services. Cory Wanner and Ambie Hengen have also contributed $5,000 each. Bruins general manager Karry Biette said he has been in conversation with at least three more potential donors, who plan on being in that range as well.

“Right now we’re sitting around $65,000 raised, halfway to our goal with a couple of months left, and we’ll keep at ‘er.” said Biette.

“Really we haven’t started the door-to-door campaign, we’ve targeted some of the community leaders and over the next few weeks we’ll start going door-to-door and business-to-business.”

The new facility will be approximately 500 square feet larger than the room the Bruins currently occupy. It will also feature a storage area that is eight times the size of the storage they

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have now. New laundry machines and innovative video equipment will also be purchased.

“The video is a big chunk of it,” said Biette.

“To incorporate it at the level we need to, there’s a lot of technology involved. To be able to put video up right away, having a Smart Board in the dressing room so you can talk about the video, and also having something to write on so you can show guys where they’re supposed to be instead of just pointing.”

According to Biette, the club is aiming to be middle of the road as far as the standard for new facilities goes. He says there are lots of things that major junior teams

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have that the Bruins would love to, but aren’t capable of. At the same time, he says they can take a step in the right direction to make the new room accessible for the players and coaches.

“To get to the level of some of the dressing rooms I’ve visited, the Brandon Wheat Kings, Regina Pats, it’s about a quarter of a million dollars. We’re making it

nice so that it fits in the rink, but we just want to make sure that the amenities are there,” said Biette.

The dressing room stalls are another factor in the new room that the Bruins are investing in.

Biette said they could go with a less expensive particleboard in the dressing room, meeting area and storage rooms, but in five

years time, they’ll have to be either repaired or rebuilt.

“When we do this, I want to do it correctly so it’s something that the community, the Estevan Bruins and the executive don’t have to worry about touching for 10,12, or 20 years, and that’s our goal,” he said.

The Estevan Bruins are in their final year of calling the dressing room at the Civic Auditorium home.

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Junior A Supplement into first year

By Daniel Hendriksen of The Mercury The SJHL, along with the junior A leagues in Manitoba, Alberta, British Columbia, and the Maritimes are into the first of a two-year pilot project called the Junior A Supplement.

The supplement allows the four leagues to keep what is dubbed as the “two-fight rule,” meaning players are permitted two fighting majors in a single game before being ejected.

This past summer, Hockey Canada implemented Rule 6.7, or the “one-fight-rule” in which players engaging in a single fight automatically receive a game-misconduct. However officials from the leagues in the four western provinces and the Maritimes put forth a proposal to keep the twofight rule in place in an effort to curb on-ice violence and bullying.

“The supplement has two aspects to it. One is to make sure fighting doesn’t increase, and the other is protecting players against a disturbing trend of injuries, specifically concussions,” said SJHL president Laury Ryan.

Hockey Canada, on the other hand, feels that the introduction of Rule 6.7 will reduce the amount of fighting in the game, but

With the Junior A Supplement in place, players engaging in more than five fights per season will be additionally disciplined. That’s’ one down for Lucas Stubel of the Estevan Bruins and Andre Parker of the Melville Millionaires.

Ryan feels the ruling may have the opposite effect. He says that by only permitting one fight, the number of fisticuffs will actually go up, and so will the number of violent offences.

“We know the one-fight rule doesn’t decrease fighting because we’ve done it before in the SJHL, and we’ve seen fighting become a tactic, and it actually increases. The two-fight rule definitely does reduce fighting in the sense that it’s harder to use fighting to gain any type of advantage in the game,” said Ryan.

“The fact of the matter is, there is no way that one official or two, or even

five officials on the ice are going to see every indiscretion out there. There has to be accountability player to player. To me, the one-fight rule creates a safety level for players that maybe we don’t really want in the league.”

Former player and current Estevan Bruins head coach/general manager Karry Biette feels that Hockey Canada is going about reducing fighting the wrong way.

“I played in this league when it was one fight, and there’s no doubt in my mind that stick-work increases, bullying increases, and fights in the last period increase. A lot of stuff in-

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creases with a one-fight rule, and it’s a lot of stuff that I’d rather not see in the game,” said Biette.

In order to adopt the Junior A Supplement, the leagues involved were required to make some amendments and ramp up penalties, fines and suspensions for illegal on-ice activity. For instance, a blow to the head in which a player is injured, now constitutes a minimum two-game suspension.

Furthermore, players engaging in multiple fights

throughout the season are also subject to stiffer penalties. Upon receiving a sixth fighting major, a player is automatically suspended for one game and his team is fined $500. A seventh fight constitutes a two-game suspension and a $750 team fine and so one.

The accumulations and consequences are not only in force for the entire regular season, but they extend into the playoffs as well.

According to Biette, the SJHL gave up a little too much as far as fines and suspensions go to keep the two-fight rule.

“Anybody that’s been to an SJHL game in the last three years knows that we did a pretty good job of policing ourselves,” he said. “The multiple fight instances are down across the board, and every year we’ve seen an incremental lowering of incidents in general that require league attention. The penalties that were in place, in my mind, were stiff enough. I’ve already seen two, two-game suspensions that maybe wouldn’t have been last year and by the end of the year, I think everybody is going to be pulling their hair out.”

While he agrees with Biette that the SHJL can police themselves and that fighting is down across the board, president Ryan says they didn’t have any choice about new rules being put in place when they pitched the idea of keeping the twofight rule.

“It was basically a case of you need to do ‘this’ or you have to do ‘this.’ It wasn’t a poker game where you’re putting in chips.

There wasn’t a whole lot of room to manoeuvre, that’s for sure,” said Ryan.

When the Junior A Supplement pilot project comes to an end at the conclusion of the 2011-2012 season, Ryan says there is no doubt in his mind that it will be a success in proving that a one-fight rule does not reduce fighting and violence.

“But what we need to be successful in doing, is proving that the Junior A Supplement improves the game and protects the players while still maintaining the physical play that everyone involved in the game loves,” he said.

For more information on the Junior A Supplement, go to www.sjhl.ca and click on “Junior A Supplement.”

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Estevan’s AA teams set for upcoming season The season has either started or is about to start for the Estevan AA minor hockey teams and most of them should be pretty competitive in their respective leagues.

Estevan TS&M bantam AA Bruins With plenty of experience, the Estevan TS&M bantam AA Bruins are chomping at the bit to get going this season. Head coach Jeff Yanko said his team is ready to go and things are looking promising.

Estevan Sherritt Coal peewee AA Bruins Despite having just four returning veterans, the Sherritt Coal peewee AA Bruins should be a contender in the South Sask Peewee AA League this year. Coach Brad Pierson said they have had

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“We have a really great group of kids, we’ve got six returning players from last year and a strong nucleus of kids that played on the Bantam A team last year,” said Yanko.

With just three first year bantam age players, the TS&M Bruins will be an experienced team, but Yanko said that’s just one of their many strengths.

“We’re going to be a very big team and we’re strong at almost every aspect of the game,” he said. “The kids get along and we’ve got a lot of positive attitudes. We’ve got great depth and we’ll definitely be the most offensive team in the league.”

According to Yanko, Weyburn, Swift Current and Prairie Storm, based out of White City, should all be strong this year as well. That being said, he is expecting his team to be at the top of the league this year.

“We feel pretty confident in being able to make a good run at the league championship, so to finish at the top of our league is a goal and to make a run at the provincials is another,” said Yanko. “Bantam is the first year that you can actually play outside your province so if we are able to come out of our province, then we can go the Western Canadian Championships.”

The first game for the bantam AA Bruins is October 2 in Yorkton followed by a game in Melville the next day.

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Estevan Apex midget AA Bruins Things are looking good for the Estevan Apex midget AA Bruins.

Coach Tom Copeland is expecting big things from his team this year, and that starts with several returning players.

“We look all right. Goaltending looks good, the forwards look really good, and we have a bunch of returning guys and some good young guys,” said Copeland. “We’re going to run a very young defence, led by a couple of decent veterans.

So defence will definitely be what we focus on and what we’re trying to work on.”

Copeland added that defence is just going to strictly concentrate on playing defence, and he’s not going to expect a lot out of them offensively.

Their focus is to keep the puck out of the net.

The Apex Bruins will benefit from a very experienced goaltending tandem. Both of their netminders are third year midgets and according to Copeland, they’re both great leaders and good communicators. That kind of experience in goal should alleviate some of the pressure of the young defence.

Offence will be another key to the team’s success and Copeland believes they have plenty of it.

“We should score enough goals to win a lot of hockey games, that’s for sure,” said Copeland, who says there are no low expectations for his team this year.

“We’re expecting to win all the time,” he said. “Win provincials, win the league, we fully expect to win and win a lot. We’ll definitely focus on developing and grooming the kids so that we’re ready to win in January but we are here to win, plain and simple. That’s what it’s all about.”

The Apex Bruins got their season underway on October 1.

lots of new players come into the fold, and they have fit in quite well.

“We have some that have jumped up from atom AA, and then of course we have others that have developed through the peewee A system, so as a whole, I’m dealing with a lot of experienced kids,” he said.

Pierson sees goaltending and defence as the team’s strong points and he expects to be able to compete every game.

“We’ll be strong in goal and I think our first couple of lines should have lots of scoring punch, but I think we’re going to be pretty even all around.” said Pierson.

The goal for the Sherritt Coal Bruins this year is to be at least a top three team. As far as competition goes, Pierson figures Moose Mountain, out of Carlyle and Yorkton will be the strongest opposition.

“I’m not saying anyone is going to be weak, but I’d like to be top three and I don’t see why we shouldn’t be. It’s going to be a very tight league and I don’t think there is going to be a ‘doormat’ of the league,” he said.

League play for the peewee Bruins starts on October 7.

Estevan Penn West atom AA Bruins Experience is not a luxury that the Estevan Penn West atom AA Bruins will have this season.

Coach Jeff Carlisle said his team will have just two returning players from last year’s squad.

“Approximately half will be second year kids and then the other half will be first year kids,” said Carlisle. “There will be a learning curve, but I think that will be a good thing for us this year, and I’m looking forward to the challenge of helping these kids with their development.”

Despite the inexperience, the Penn West Bruins should be able to score some goals this year. Both of their returning players are very strong forwards, and Carlisle said one of them is probably the best player at his age in the province.

As the year goes on, Carlisle is hoping the team’s competitiveness against other teams gets stronger and he said the biggest goal is to develop the kids and all of their skills.

The Bruins will be in action for some exhibition games in Moosomin on October 18 and they will host their home tournament the weekend of November 20 and 21.

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OCTOBER, 2010

2010 ESTEVAN HOCKEY PREVIEW

SUPPLEMENT TO THE ESTEVAN MERCURY & THE TRADER EXPRESS

From Black & Gold to Red & White Former Bruin joins Estevan Police Service

By Daniel Hendriksen of The Mercury Joel Pullman spent two years policing the blue line for the Estevan Bruins; now he patrols the streets for the Estevan Police Service.

Pullman played defence for the Bruins in the 2002-03 and 2003-04 hockey seasons, compiling 60 points and 84 penalty minutes over 118 games.

He was also a first-team SJHL all-star in his second season with Bruins.

It was actually former Bruins assistant coach Evan Handley that recruited Pullman to make the move back to the Energy City to become a police officer. Handley, a current police officer in Estevan, was a coach when Pullman was with the Bruins. The two of them kept in touch until just last year when Handley asked if Pullman would be interested in moving back to Estevan to become a cop.

“I ran it by my wife and we both thought it was a good idea. Evan’s actually my training offi-

Joel Pullman, once an all-star defenceman with the Estevan Bruins is now a city police officer.

cer now as well,” laughed Pullman. “He was my coach in hockey and now he’s kind of my coach with this job, showing me the ropes … it’s funny how it works.”

After his time with the Bruins, Pullman moved to the States to further his hockey career before marrying his high school sweetheart and realizing that it was best for the two of them to move home to Saskatchewan.

“It’s not an easy lifestyle. Unless you’re making tons of money, you’ve got to find a job every summer so my wife and I got sick of doing it, and we decided it was time for us

to settle down.”

After hockey, a career as a firefighter is what initially interested Pullman.

He had taken his training and was searching for a job in that field until the opportunity to become a policeman was presented to him. He said a career in policing was always in the back of his mind but something he never actually pursued.

The Estevan Police Service hired him in January and he attended the Saskatchewan Police College in Regina for fourand-a-half months of training before starting work with the police service on May 19.

Pullman admits that his perspective of Estevan, albeit still positive, has changed slightly.

“In this job you see a lot of things that you didn’t know were going on before,” he said. “And Estevan has changed since I was here. It’s gotten a lot busier with lots of different people coming in with the oil and like I said, you see a lot more things when you’re a cop, but that’s the same with any city.”

While they are quite different, Pullman said he

sees similarities between playing hockey and being a police officer.

“I know a lot of hockey players fall into those types of careers – firefighting and law enforcement – because they’re jobs where you have to be in good shape,” he said.

“You’re also a part of a team and they’re both situations where you’re a role model in the community so they have the same type of qualities.”

Pullman still keeps in touch with some of his former Bruin teammates and a few of them have even asked him to play senior

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hockey. As much as he’d like to, Pullman said it’s a big time commitment and in his line of work, there are lots of weekend shifts, so it would be too hard to find the time.

Pullman and his wife, Krista now have two children and they have no immediate plans to leave Estevan.

“I was born in Springside, just outside of Yorkton so I’ve always been used to living in a smaller city and Estevan is a nice place,” said Pullman. “I liked it when I was playing here and I still enjoy it now.”

We’re “Counting” on a Another Great Season!

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