2011-12 Griffiti - Issue #1

2011-12 SEASON ISSUE NO. 1

Edition Limited of Posters & cDonald a M y e o J adio Greg Am Inside!

official magazine of the grand rapids griffins

XFINITY® INTERNET BEATS THE COMPETITION COLD.

The digital world moves fast. If you have DSL, your Internet connection can get really bogged down.

XFINITY High-Speed Internet gives you more bandwidth, which means blazing-fast speeds.

Now you can connect more, share faster, watch more, play games at breakneck speeds, enjoy video chats without delays, work smarter, stay organized — get more out of everything you use the Internet for!

XFINITY TV Online – Get all your HD movie and TV entertainment right on your computer at blinkof-an-eye speeds without interruption. And with On Demand now online, you can catch your favorite movies and shows anytime, anywhere.

Norton™ Security Suite – Acclaimed online protection so you can rest easier.

PowerBoost – Super-fast download speeds of up to 15 Mbps. ®

Backed by our no-risk 30-Day Money-Back Guarantee

Get our best offer on XFINITY Internet now!

Call 1-800-XFINITY or visit www.comcast.com/xfinity

Restrictions apply. Not available in all areas. Not all features available with all services. Actual speeds vary and are not guaranteed.

Money-Back Guarantee applies to recurring monthly charge and standard installation. Call for restrictions and complete details.

Comcast ©2011. All rights reserved.

B Grand Rapids GRIFFINS

Vol. 16, No. 1

TABLE OF CONTENTS 22

STARTING LINEUP EYE OF THE TIGER Tomas Tatar has set his sights on fulfilling the promise that he first showed as the youngest player in the American Hockey League.

22

26 SPECIAL DAY

The return of the Detroit Red Wings to Van Andel Arena

rekindled memories for the players and fans alike.

30 SAVVY INVESTMENT

The Red Wings are hopeful that time spent in Grand

Rapids will pay big dividends for prospect Gustav Nyquist.

41 FEELING GOOD

The Griffins’ new athletic trainer is glad to be back in his

home state; concussions will be just one of his concerns.

44 TREMENDOUS TEAMMATES

Former Griffins Pavol Demitra, Karel Rachunek and Stefan

Liv were victims of the Russian plane crash that killed the

entire Lokomotiv Yaroslavl hockey team.

26

50 TIME-TESTED AND TRUE

A growing number of NHL coaches paid their dues in

the AHL.

ON THE BENCH

2............ Next Opponents 5............ Chalk Talk 6............ Coming Attractions 9............ Griffins Schedule 12.......... AHL Team Directory 18.......... AHL Tradition 20...........It Feels Good to Connect 21.......... Detroit Red Wings 28.......... Promotional Calendar

36.......... Meet the Griffins 48.......... Griffins Records 54.......... Community Crease 57.......... Penalty Calls 58.......... Griffins History 64.......... Arena Map/Ticket Info 68.......... It All Starts Here 71.......... Kids Page 72.......... Parting Shot

30

COVER:

Armed with a new tattoo of a tiger, Tomas Tatar wants to prove that he’s ready to leap into the NHL. Photo by Mark Newman

Griffiti magazine is published four times a year by the Grand Rapids Griffins, Van Andel Arena, 130 W. Fulton St., Grand Rapids, MI 49503. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. All contents ©2011 Grand Rapids Griffins.

For advertising information, contact Griffins Sales & Marketing, (616) 774-4585; fax (616) 336-5464. Unsolicited manuscripts and other materials will not be returned.

44

Grand Rapids GRIFFINS 1

N E X T H O M E O P P O N E N T S

PLAYERS TO WATCH TORONTO (OCT. 14) The Marlies like the potential of defenseman Korbinian Holzer, a 23-year-old native of Munich, Germany. The 6-foot-3, 205-lb. blueliner appeared in 73 games with the Maple Leafs’ top affiliate last season, recording three goals and 10 assists.

Holzer, who also saw action in two NHL games a year ago, represented Germany at the 2010 Vancouver Olympics.

ABBOTSFORD (OCT. 28) The Heat hope to get a full season out of defenseman John Negrin, whose first two professional campaigns have been cut short by injuries. A third-round pick (70th overall) of the Calgary Flames in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft, the 22-year-old Negrin broke his wrist during his rookie year then battled a knee injury last season.

LAKE ERIE (NOV. 2) The Monsters will look for production from center Ryan Stoa, a second-round pick (34th overall) of the Colorado Avalanche in the 2005 NHL Entry Draft. The 24-year-old product of the University of Minnesota split his 2010-11 season between the cities of Cleveland and Denver, tallying two goals and two assists in 25 games with the Avalanche.

CHARLOTTE (NOV. 5) The Checkers will make their first-ever visit to Grand Rapids with an offense led by Ottawa native Jon Matsumoto. A third-round pick (79th overall) of the Philadelphia Flyers in the 2006 NHL Entry Draft, Matsumoto came to the Carolina Hurricanes via a trade before last season.

The 25-year-old center has averaged 25 goals over the last four AHL seasons.

2 Grand Rapids GRIFFINS

ROCKFORD (NOV. 9) The IceHogs are pleased with the progress of defenseman Brian Connelly, who recorded 11 goals and 41 assists in 80 games last season in Rockford. Signed by the Chicago Blackhawks as a free agent out of Colorado College, the 25-yearold blueliner is a top offensive threat on the power play, where he can put his puck-moving skills to work.

SAN ANTONIO (NOV. 18) The Rampage will draw on the offensive skills of defenseman Evan Oberg, a former Vancouver Canucks prospect who was traded to the Florida Panthers organization at the 2011 NHL trade deadline. The 23-year-old blueliner had last season cut short by a neck injury, but the Forestburg, Alberta, native looked fully recovered during training camp.

MILWAUKEE (NOV. 19) The Admirals are counting on 25-year-old right winger Chris Mueller to be one of their top scorers, after the Nashville Predators prospect registered 24 goals and 26 assists in 67 games a year ago. A product of Michigan State University, Mueller logged his first two pro games with the Griffins during the 2007-08 season.

HAMILTON (NOV. 23) The Bulldogs expect big things from defenseman Brendon Nash, a 24-year-old native of Kamloops, British Columbia. As a rookie, Nash tallied five goals and 25 assists in 75 games with Hamilton last season.

A product of Cornell University, Nash made his NHL debut with the Montreal Canadiens last February.

OKLAHOMA CITY (NOV. 25, NOV. 27) The Barons will be pushing the talents of 23-yearold defenseman Jeff Petry, who was a second-round pick (45th overall) of the Edmonton Oilers in the 2006 NHL Entry Draft. The son of former Detroit Tigers pitcher Dan Petry, the 6-foot-3, 196-lb. blueliner saw action in 35 NHL games last season with the Oilers. Petry played college hockey at Michigan State University.

Grand Rapids GRIFFINS 3

HUNTINGTON CELEBRATES

Member FDIC.

Huntington® is a federally registered service mark of Huntington Bancshares Incorporated.

TM is a service mark of Huntington Bancshares Incorporated. ©2011 Huntington Bancshares Incorporated.

Welcome.

4 Huntington.® Grand Rapids GRIFFINS

CHALK TALK T

WITH GRIFFINS HEAD COACH CURT FRASER

he Detroit Red Wings own the longest active playoff streak among all major sports teams with 20 consecutive appearances.

Months after missing the Calder Cup Playoffs by a narrow margin, Griffins head coach Curt Fraser would like his team to follow the lead of the parent club and start a streak of its own.

“Player development is our premier concern, but winning is important as well,” he said. “We want to have a successful team here to give the kids a good atmosphere to grow as players.”

Coming out of the Red Wings’ training camp in Traverse City, Fraser was encouraged by the excellent potential he sees on the roster of players who were targeted to see action in Grand Rapids this season.

“I think the last couple of years we’ve been missing too many pieces and the Wings’ injuries just compounded the situation,” said Fraser, who enters his fourth season behind the Griffins’ bench. “This is the first year since I’ve been here that we’re a lot deeper.

“The prospects camp was really good and the Red Wings camp was the best it’s been because of the way it was structured. A lot of our guys got a chance to play in the exhibition games and even got to see a fairly significant amount of ice time.”

A team has to score goals to win hockey games, but it’s the defense that makes a difference between a good team and an average team. Fraser wants the Griffins to do a better job of keeping the puck out of their net.

“We’re a puck possession team, which means we should have the puck more often than not.

If we do a good job on defense, it means we should have the puck even more,” Fraser said.

“That means that on the defensive side of the puck, we have to be way better than last year. It’s all about commitment, and I think we can get everybody on board because this is a hardworking group.”

Fraser maintains that the key is goaltending.

“Our goalies have to be really good this year. Joey MacDonald should give us some stability in net, and I think you’ll see 100 percent improvement in that area.”

Fraser is also encouraged by the growth and development of his young defensemen. When the Griffins ran into rough patches in the past, the struggles frequently started on the blueline, where the inexperience was most evident.

Highly touted defenseman Brendan Smith is now a year older, ready to take another step toward

his NHL career. Logan Pyett, Travis Ehrhardt and Brian Lashoff have several seasons under their belts. Meanwhile, veterans Doug Janik and Greg Amadio provide plenty of back end experience.

Add the arrival of Garnet Exelby, and the Griffins should be significantly stronger on the blueline.

“I believe Pyett can have a breakout year. Lashoff and Ehrhardt look really strong. Lashoff got hurt four times last year and never got a chance to get going, but he’s put on a ton of muscle. Exelby is a veteran defenseman who is tough as nails.”

The list of forwards could include a number of fresh faces, including Chris Conner, who played 60 games with the NHL’s Pittsburgh Penguins in 201011, and Fabian Brunnstrom, who tallied 17 goals in 55 games with the NHL’s Dallas Stars three seasons ago.

Youngsters who should get a good look this season include Louis-Marc Aubry, Mitch Callahan, Adam Estoclet, Landon Ferraro, Andrej Nestrasil, Nick Oslund and Trevor Parkes. “We’re going to be younger, but I think we’ll be better,” he said.

One reason for Fraser’s optimism is that he shares the Red Wings’ enthusiasm for rookie Gustav Nyquist.

“He’s obviously the key piece,” Fraser said.

“We think we’ve found a really nice hockey player who will lead the charge offensively and do some really good things for our hockey club.”

Tomas Tatar will be expected to be the team’s top scorer, but Jamie Johnson, along with Joakim Andersson and Brent Raedeke, should contribute points as well. “(Willie) Coetzee and Ferraro looked really good in camp and you notice them every shift now.”

All in all, Fraser likes his team’s chances. The Griffins’ goal this year is not only to make the playoffs, but to think about winning a championship.

Fraser, for one, thinks it is possible.

“If we get all the guys we think we will, we should have a good opportunity to have a very good season, so we’re really excited,” Fraser said.

“We’re going to be fast and physical and we’re going to win some hockey games.

I think we’re going to be very competitive this year.”

Grand Rapids GRIFFINS 5

COMING ATTRACTIONS CHANGING ON THE FLY

Nothing better reflects the fast pace of a hockey game than the fact that substitutions are frequently made while play continues.

In basketball or football, substitutions only take place during stoppages in play. In baseball, players’ names are announced when they are added or removed from a lineup card.

By contrast, hockey players jump on and off the bench nearly every minute of a game. Teams make changes at opportune moments during a game in order to keep fresh legs on the ice, replace injured players or take advantage of player matchups or game situations.

Dania Kaseeva and David Michael Maas are not hockey players, but they have mastered a form of changing on the fly. As Quick Change, the duo have mesmerized sports fans across the country with their ability to switch costumes in the blink of an eye.

When the couple debuted their quick-change act in 1996, both were veteran show business professionals.

Trained in dance and acrobatics, Russian-born Kaseeva was a featured performer with her awardwinning hula hoop act on several international tours with the Moscow Circus before joining the Royal Hanneford Circus, where she met Maas, her future husband and partner. The son of a German-born concert pianist, Chicago native Maas was a singing ringmaster for various shows in England and the U.S., including Circus Circus Hotel in Las Vegas. While working as a ringmaster, he also studied and practiced magic.

Hockey fans will get the opportunity to witness the magical transformations of Quick Change on Saturday, Nov. 5 when the Griffins will be changing on the fly against the Charlotte Checkers.

The date will include a Griffins Calendar Giveaway, a J&H Family Stores post-game open skate, and a Huntington Bank post-game autograph session.

Fri., Oct. 28: Halloween Costume Party Dressed to fit the occasion, sports fans wear the jersey of a favorite team or player, much like millions 6 Grand Rapids GRIFFINS

wear costumes to celebrate the holiday of Halloween.

The two traditions will collide on Friday, Oct. 28 when the Griffins welcome the Abbotsford Heat.

Did you know the practice of dressing up in costumes and begging for treats may date back to the Middle Ages?

Trick-or-treating resembles the late medieval practice of souling, when poor folk would go door to door on All Saints’ Day (Nov. 1), receiving food in return for prayers for the dead on All Souls’ Day (Nov. 2). The tradition of “guising” (children disguised in costumes) traces back to Scotland and Ireland in the late 19th century.

Griffins fans are encouraged to come in costume to Van Andel Arena, where they can enjoy a Clingz Schedule Giveaway and the popular Dollar Beers and Hot Dogs promotion.

Held in conjunction with College Night, the Griffins will offer Dollar Beers and Hot Dogs for all 16 Friday home games this season, allowing fans to enjoy the special pricing from 6-8 p.m., while supplies last.

Fri., Nov. 25: Teddy Bear Toss Bring a new stuffed toy to the Nov. 25 contest against the Oklahoma City Barons and celebrate the Griffins’ first goal of the game by tossing it onto the ice. All toys will be donated to Hug-ABears of Kent County.

Sun., Nov. 27: Mascot Mania The first 1,500 kids (age 12 and under) entering Van Andel Arena on Sunday, Nov. 27 for the Griffins’ 5 p.m. game against Oklahoma City will receive a “Be Your Own Bobblehead” T-Shirt.

Mascots from area schools, sports teams and businesses will do their best to entertain with their familiar tomfoolery, both in the stands and on the ice, during one of the intermissions.

All promotions and dates subject to change.

“Free Ride Friday� with Griffins ticket before or after any Griffins Home Game.

For more information visit griffinshockey.com/rapid

Wherever life takes you in the Grand Rapids metro area, The Rapid has an easy, low-cost way to get you there.

For more information visit www.ridetherapid.org.

Grand Rapids GRIFFINS 7

Looking to save $$$ at your office???

We can help!

Contact us for a FREE MOS 360째 Assessment 800-442-9070 Email: MOSinfo@mos-xerox.com www.mos-xerox.com

Official Document Solutions Provider for the Grand Rapids Griffins

8 Grand Rapids GRIFFINS

2011-12

SEASON SCHEDULE S

M

T

OCTOBER W

T

F

S

S

M

NOVEMBER

1 2 9 RCH 6:05

3

4

10

11

17

HAM

HOU 6:05

24

30

31

S

M

7:30

25

5 12 19 26

6

7

W

7:00

20

OKC

OKC

20

27

ABB

MIL

OKC 5:00

S

8:00

7:00

M

5

6

W

M

T

7:00

24

JANUARY

8:05

LE

CHA

16

CHA

18

19

RCH

8:00

LE

7:30

7:00

7:30

3:00

7:00

22

23

24

22

29

PEO

MIL

29

30

31

S

M

T

7:00

6:00

T

F

S

HAM

23

24

7:00

W

T

F

S

4

5

ABB

ABB

HOU

12

TEX 7:00

14

LE

RCH

PEO

PEO

7:00

W

26

10:00

7:00

8:00

10:00

7:00

8:00

MARCH T

F

S

1

RCH

OKC

HAM 5:00

5

6

TEX 8:30

8

9

HOU

7:00

16

17

PEO

HOU 6:05

12

TEX

14

15

TOR

HAM

23

LE

TOR

18

19

SA

7:00

21

8:00

HAM

3:00

30

7:00

HOU

21

8

TOR

HOU

14

HAM

22

28

7:00

9

20

3:00

26

21

7:35

2

13

M

OKC

HAM

7:00

8

5:00

S

MIL

16

1

19

TOR

17

15

7

CHI

27

RCH

SA

7:30

7:00

HAM

SA

26

HAM

7:00

7:00

FEBRUARY T

10

3

15

S

RFD

10

RFD

7:00

Noon

9

13 27

8

2

12 26

CHA

8

CHI

LE

4

1

MIL

7:00

S

3

RFD

8

20

F

LE

CHI

1

ABB

T

7:00

S

7

25

8:00

14

W

1

F

6

19

8:00

7

T

T

5

7:00

13

15

DECEMBER T

6

TOR

4 18

8:05

13

TOR

4:00

RFD

PRIMARY AFFILIATE OF THE DETROIT RED WINGS

28

8:00

7:00

7:00

7:00

7:00

5:00

OKC

29

T

W

2

3

TEX

9

RCH 7:05

7:00

7:00

11

5:00

APRIL T

F

S

5

TOR

TOR

12

CHI

HAM

7:00

7:00

3:00

7:00

Games broadcast live on

TO PURCHASE TICKETS OR FOR MORE INFO, VISIT GRIFFINSHOCKEY.COM OR CALL 1.800.2.HOCKEY

Home

26

8:30

8:00

27

Away

28

7:00

7:00

7:00

8:35

7:00

SA

23

OKC

29

CHA

OKC

7:00

8:00

7:00

*All times Eastern. Dates, opponents, and times subject to change.

J&H Family Stores Post-Game Open Skate Huntington Bank Post-Game Autograph Session Fan 4-Pack Home Game Griff’s Reading Goals Redemption Date

ABB – Abbotsford CHA – Charlotte CHI – Chicago HAM – Hamilton HOU – Houston LE – Lake Erie MIL – Milwaukee

OKC – Oklahoma City PEO – Peoria RCH – Rochester RFD – Rockford SA – San Antonio TEX – Texas TOR – Toronto

Grand Rapids GRIFFINS 9

Dear Grand Rapids Griffins Fans, As we enter the 16th season of Griffins hockey, one theme keeps coming to my mind: the more things change, the more they stay the same.

In June, we bid farewell to Bob McNamara, the only general manager our franchise had ever known and now the president of our North Division rivals, the Hamilton Bulldogs. While we wish Bob nothing but success – except for our 10 games against his new team this season – our hockey operation will, in many ways, carry on much as it has the last several seasons.

As our 10-year affiliation with the Detroit Red Wings has evolved, they have assumed greater responsibilities and a more active role in our hockey operations, to the point where they provided nearly all of our players the last several seasons. This year, for the first time, they will supply or acquire every player on the Griffins’ roster, with a steady supply of reinforcements coming through a re-emphasized affiliation with the ECHL’s Toledo Walleye.

Detroit’s appreciation for its relationship with Grand Rapids, recently demonstrated by September’s return of the Red & White Game after an eight-year absence, should also be reflected in the caliber of veterans and rookies who will wear the Griffin this season. While we fully commit our roster to the Red Wings, they continue to entrust our coaching staff – Curt Fraser, soon to be the winningest head coach in Griffins history, and long-time assistant Jim Paek – with the crucial task of developing those prospects into future NHL players.

More than ever, the success of the Griffins-Red Wings relationship will be evidenced at Joe Louis Arena.

Led by rising stars such as Jimmy Howard and Niklas Kronwall, at least 10 Griffins alumni are expected to play prominent roles with Detroit this season. These players whom we’ve come to know so well at Van Andel Arena are increasingly responsible for sustaining Detroit’s unmatched tradition of excellence.

Our arena is also where many retired legends of Hockeytown are staying involved in the game, as Chris Chelios, Chris Osgood, Jiri Fischer and Aaron Downey frequently come here to work with our players in their various coaching or player development capacities. Past Griffins are helping determine Detroit’s present success, and former Red Wings are preparing Grand Rapids’ current players for their NHL futures – just the way we dreamed it up back in 2002, and one more reason both teams are hopeful of extending our affiliation for years to come.

On behalf of everyone in the Griffins organization, I thank you for your continued support and look forward to experiencing the 2011-12 season with you.

Sincerely,

Dan DeVos President & CEO Grand Rapids Griffins

10 Grand Rapids GRIFFINS

DAVID A. ANDREWS

PRESIDENT AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, AMERICAN HOCKEY LEAGUE

American Hockey League

One Monarch Place – Springfield, MA 01144 Phone: (413) 781-2030 Fax: (413) 733-4767

Dear Fans, It is my great pleasure to welcome you to another exciting season of American Hockey League action. We are proud to be entering our 76th season of continuous play, bringing a tradition of excellence and an entertaining, physical and highly skilled level of play to more than 6 million hockey fans across North America annually.

Once again in 2011-12, there are 30 teams competing for the historic Calder Cup championship and all 30 National Hockey League clubs are developing their top prospects and draft picks in the AHL. Last season more than 200 first- and second-round NHL draft picks competed in the American Hockey League, and 338 players took the ice in both the AHL and the NHL. This season brings a new look to the AHL landscape as we welcome the city of St. John’s, Newfoundland, back to the league, with the St. John’s IceCaps set to take the ice at Mile One Centre for their inaugural campaign as the top affiliate of the NHL’s Winnipeg Jets.

We continue to be proud of our tradition of developing the best hockey talent in the world, with over 87 percent of today’s NHL players, coaches and officials having honed their skills in the American Hockey League, including reigning Vezina and Conn Smythe Trophy winner Tim Thomas and 2011 NHL MVP Corey Perry. Our loyal and passionate fans through the years have enjoyed cheering for more than 100 future Hockey Hall of Famers, and have rooted for more than 100 Calder Cup champions who would go on to have their names engraved on the Stanley Cup as well.

The Binghamton Senators enter this season as the defending Calder Cup champions after capturing the city’s first-ever AHL title last June. This year’s Senators are looking to hold off 29 other teams whose ultimate goal will also be the 2012 Calder Cup championship.

We invite fans from across the league to join us at the world-famous Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, N.J., on January 29 and 30 for our annual celebration of AHL excellence, the 2012 AHL All-Star Classic -- featuring the Skills Competition, All-Star Game and AHL Hall of Fame inductions.

On behalf of all of our teams, thank you again for your continuing support and I wish you the utmost enjoyment in following your club through what is sure to be another terrific season.

Sincerely,

David A. Andrews President & Chief Executive Officer American Hockey League

Grand Rapids GRIFFINS 11

2011-2012 AHL DIRECTORY

EASTERN CONFERENCE ATLANTIC DIVISION: Manchester, Portland, Providence, St. John’s, Worcester NORTHEAST DIVISION: Adirondack, Albany, Bridgeport, Connecticut, Springfield EAST DIVISION: Binghamton, Hershey, Norfolk, Syracuse, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton

ADIRONDACK PHANTOMS

NHL AFFILIATION: Philadelphia Flyers HOME ICE: Glens Falls Civic Center (4,816) GENERAL MANAGER: Paul Holmgren HEAD COACH: Joe Paterson ENTERED AHL: 1996-97 (as Philadelphia Phantoms) CALDER CUPS: Two (1998, 2005) SEASONS IN PLAYOFFS: 10 of 15 2010-11 RECORD: 31-39-4-6, 72 pts.

WEBSITE: www.phantomshockey.com

ALBANY DEVILS

NHL AFFILIATION: New Jersey Devils HOME ICE: Times Union Center (6,691) GENERAL MANAGER: Chris Lamoriello HEAD COACH: Rick Kowalsky ENTERED AHL: 2006-07 (as Lowell Devils) CALDER CUPS: None SEASONS IN PLAYOFFS: 1 of 5 2010-11 RECORD: 32-42-1-5, 70 pts.

WEBSITE: www.thealbanydevils.com

BINGHAMTON SENATORS

NHL AFFILIATION: Ottawa Senators HOME ICE: Broome County Veterans Memorial Arena (4,710) PRESIDENT: Tim Smith HEAD COACH: Kurt Kleinendorst ENTERED AHL: 2002-03 CALDER CUPS: One (2011) SEASONS IN PLAYOFFS: 4 of 9 2010-11 RECORD: 42-30-3-5, 92 pts.

WEBSITE: www.binghamtonsenators.com

BRIDGEPORT SOUND TIGERS

NHL AFFILIATION: New York Islanders HOME ICE: Webster Bank Arena (8,412) GENERAL MANAGER: Garth Snow HEAD COACH: Brent Thompson ENTERED AHL: 2001-02 CALDER CUPS: None SEASONS IN PLAYOFFS: 6 of 10 2010-11 RECORD: 30-39-4-7, 71 pts.

WEBSITE: www.soundtigers.com

CONNECTICUT WHALE

NHL AFFILIATION: New York Rangers HOME ICE: XL Center Veterans Memorial Coliseum (15,635) GENERAL MANAGER: Jim Schoenfeld HEAD COACH: Ken Gernander ENTERED AHL: 1997-98 (as Hartford Wolf Pack) CALDER CUPS: One (2000) SEASONS IN PLAYOFFS: 13 of 14 2010-11 RECORD: 40-32-2-6, 88 pts.

WEBSITE: www.ctwhale.com

12 Grand Rapids GRIFFINS

HERSHEY BEARS

NHL AFFILIATION: Washington Capitals HOME ICE: Giant Center (10,500) GENERAL MANAGER: Doug Yingst HEAD COACH: Mark French ENTERED AHL: 1938-39 CALDER CUPS: 11 (1947, 1958, 1959, 1969, 1974, 1980, 1988, 1997, 2006, 2009, 2010) SEASONS IN PLAYOFFS: 62 of 73 2010-11 RECORD: 46-26-3-5, 100 pts.

WEBSITE: www.hersheybears.com

MANCHESTER MONARCHS

NHL AFFILIATION: Los Angeles Kings HOME ICE: Verizon Wireless Arena (9,852) GENERAL MANAGER: Ron Hextall HEAD COACH: Mark Morris ENTERED AHL: 2001-02 CALDER CUPS: None SEASONS IN PLAYOFFS: 9 of 10 2010-11 RECORD: 44-26-4-6, 98 pts.

WEBSITE: www.manchestermonarchs.com

NORFOLK ADMIRALS

NHL AFFILIATION: Tampa Bay Lightning HOME ICE: Norfolk Scope (8,704) GENERAL MANAGER: Julien BriseBois HEAD COACH: Jon Cooper ENTERED AHL: 2000-01 CALDER CUPS: None SEASONS IN PLAYOFFS: 8 of 11 2010-11 RECORD: 39-26-9-6, 93 pts.

WEBSITE: www.norfolkadmirals.com

PORTLAND PIRATES

NHL AFFILIATION: Phoenix Coyotes HOME ICE: Cumberland County Civic Center (6,733) GENERAL MANAGER: Brad Treliving HEAD COACH: Ray Edwards ENTERED AHL: 1993-94 CALDER CUPS: One (1994) SEASONS IN PLAYOFFS: 14 of 18 2010-11 RECORD: 47-24-7-2, 103 pts.

WEBSITE: www.portlandpirates.com

PROVIDENCE BRUINS

NHL AFFILIATION: Boston Bruins HOME ICE: Dunkin’ Donuts Center Providence (11,075) GENERAL MANAGER: Peter Chiarelli HEAD COACH: Bruce Cassidy ENTERED AHL: 1992-93 CALDER CUPS: One (1999) SEASONS IN PLAYOFFS: 15 of 19 2010-11 RECORD: 38-36-3-3, 82 pts.

WEBSITE: www.providencebruins.com

SPRINGFIELD FALCONS

NHL AFFILIATION: Columbus Blue Jackets HOME ICE: MassMutual Center (6,789) GENERAL MANAGER: Bruce Landon HEAD COACH: Rob Riley ENTERED AHL: 1994-95 CALDER CUPS: None SEASONS IN PLAYOFFS: 6 of 17 2010-11 RECORD: 35-40-2-3, 75 pts.

WEBSITE: www.falconsahl.com

2011-2012 AHL DIRECTORY ST. JOHN’S ICECAPS

NHL AFFILIATION: Winnipeg Jets HOME ICE: Mile One Centre (6,247) GENERAL MANAGER: Craig Heisinger HEAD COACH: Keith McCambridge ENTERED AHL: 2011-12 WEBSITE: www.stjohnsicecaps.com

SYRACUSE CRUNCH

NHL AFFILIATION: Anaheim Ducks HOME ICE: Onondaga County War Memorial at Oncenter (6,159) GENERAL MANAGER: Vance Lederman HEAD COACH: Mark Holick ENTERED AHL: 1994-95 CALDER CUPS: None SEASONS IN PLAYOFFS: 9 of 17 2010-11 RECORD: 35-38-3-4, 77 pts.

WEBSITE: www.syracusecrunch.com

WESTERNNORTHCONFERENCE DIVISION: Grand Rapids, Hamilton, Lake Erie, Rochester, Toronto MIDWEST DIVISION: Charlotte, Chicago, Milwaukee, Peoria, Rockford WEST DIVISION: Abbotsford, Houston, Oklahoma City, San Antonio, Texas

ABBOTSFORD HEAT

NHL AFFILIATION: Calgary Flames HOME ICE: Abbotsford Entertainment & Sports Centre (7,046) GENERAL MANAGER: Jay Feaster HEAD COACH: Troy G. Ward ENTERED AHL: 2009-10 CALDER CUPS: None SEASONS IN PLAYOFFS: 1 of 2 2010-11 RECORD: 38-32-4-6, 86 pts.

WEBSITE: www.abbotsfordheat.com

CHARLOTTE CHECKERS

NHL AFFILIATION: Carolina Hurricanes HOME ICE: Time Warner Cable Arena (6,800) HEAD COACH/ GENERAL MANAGER: Jeff Daniels ENTERED AHL: 2010-11 CALDER CUPS: None SEASONS IN PLAYOFFS: 1 of 1 2010-11 RECORD: 44-27-2-7, 97 pts.

WEBSITE: www.gocheckers.com

CHICAGO WOLVES

NHL AFFILIATION: Vancouver Canucks HOME ICE: Allstate Arena (16,692) GENERAL MANAGER: Wendell Young HEAD COACH: Craig MacTavish ENTERED AHL: 2001-02 CALDER CUPS: Two (2002, 2008) SEASONS IN PLAYOFFS: 7 of 10 2010-11 RECORD: 39-30-5-6, 89 pts.

WEBSITE: www.chicagowolves.com

WILKES-BARRE/SCRANTON PENGUINS

NHL AFFILIATION: Pittsburgh Penguins HOME ICE: Mohegan Sun Arena at Casey Plaza (8,050) GENERAL MANAGER: Ray Shero HEAD COACH: John Hynes ENTERED AHL: 1999-00 CALDER CUPS: None SEASONS IN PLAYOFFS: 10 of 12 2010-11 RECORD: 58-21-0-1, 117 pts.

WEBSITE: www.wbspenguins.com

WORCESTER SHARKS

NHL AFFILIATION: San Jose Sharks HOME ICE: DCU Center (6,800) GENERAL MANAGER: Wayne Thomas HEAD COACH: Roy Sommer ENTERED AHL: 2006-07 CALDER CUPS: None SEASONS IN PLAYOFFS: 3 of 5 2010-11 RECORD: 36-31-4-9, 85 pts.

WEBSITE: www.sharksahl.com

GRAND RAPIDS GRIFFINS

NHL AFFILIATION: Detroit Red Wings HOME ICE: Van Andel Arena (10,834) HEAD COACH: Curt Fraser BEGAN PLAY: 1996-97 (IHL) ENTERED AHL: 2001-02 CALDER CUPS: None SEASONS IN PLAYOFFS: 6 of 10 2010-11 RECORD: 36-34-2-8, 82 pts.

WEBSITE: www.griffinshockey.com

HAMILTON BULLDOGS

NHL AFFILIATION: Montreal Canadiens HOME ICE: Copps Coliseum (8,819) GENERAL MANAGER: Pierre Gauthier HEAD COACH: Clement Jodoin ENTERED AHL: 1996-97 CALDER CUPS: One (2007) SEASONS IN PLAYOFFS: 12 of 15 2010-11 RECORD: 44-27-2-7, 97 pts.

WEBSITE: www.hamiltonbulldogs.com

HOUSTON AEROS

NHL AFFILIATION: Minnesota Wild HOME ICE: Toyota Center (8,939) GENERAL MANAGER: Jim Mill HEAD COACH: John Torchetti ENTERED AHL: 2001-02 CALDER CUPS: One (2003) SEASONS IN PLAYOFFS: 8 of 10 2010-11 RECORD: 46-28-1-5, 98 pts.

WEBSITE: www.aeros.com

LAKE ERIE MONSTERS

NHL AFFILIATION: Colorado Avalanche HOME ICE: Quicken Loans Arena (20,093) DIRECTOR OF AHL OPERATIONS: David Oliver HEAD COACH: David Quinn ENTERED AHL: 2007-08 CALDER CUPS: None SEASONS IN PLAYOFFS: 1 of 4 2010-11 RECORD: 44-28-3-5, 96 pts.

WEBSITE: www.lakeeriemonsters.com Grand Rapids GRIFFINS 13

2011-2012 AHL DIRECTORY MILWAUKEE ADMIRALS

TEXAS STARS

OKLAHOMA CITY BARONS

TORONTO MARLIES

NHL AFFILIATION: Nashville Predators HOME ICE: Bradley Center (17,845) GENERAL MANAGER: Paul Fenton HEAD COACH: Kirk Muller ENTERED AHL: 2001-02 CALDER CUPS: One (2004) SEASONS IN PLAYOFFS: 9 of 10 2010-11 RECORD: 44-22-6-8, 102 pts.

WEBSITE: www.milwaukeeadmirals.com NHL AFFILIATION: Edmonton Oilers HOME ICE: Cox Convention Center (7,500) GENERAL MANAGER: Bill Scott HEAD COACH: Todd Nelson ENTERED AHL: 2010-11 CALDER CUPS: None SEASONS IN PLAYOFFS: 1 of 1 2010-11 RECORD: 40-29-2-9, 91 pts.

WEBSITE: www.okcbarons.com

PEORIA RIVERMEN

NHL AFFILIATION: St. Louis Blues HOME ICE: Peoria Civic Center – Carver Arena (9,919) GENERAL MANAGER: Kevin McDonald HEAD COACH: Jared Bednar ENTERED AHL: 2005-06 CALDER CUPS: None SEASONS IN PLAYOFFS: 3 of 6 2010-11 RECORD: 42-30-3-5, 92 pts.

WEBSITE: www.rivermen.net

ROCHESTER AMERICANS

NHL AFFILIATION: Buffalo Sabres HOME ICE: Blue Cross Arena at the Rochester War Memorial (10,662) GENERAL MANAGER: Darcy Regier HEAD COACH: Ron Rolston ENTERED AHL: 1956-57 CALDER CUPS: Six (1965, 1966, 1968, 1983, 1987, 1996) SEASONS IN PLAYOFFS: 41 of 55 2010-11 RECORD: 31-39-5-5, 72 pts.

WEBSITE: www.amerks.com

ROCKFORD ICEHOGS

NHL AFFILIATION: Chicago Blackhawks HOME ICE: BMO Harris Bank Center (5,767) GOVERNOR: Mark Bernard HEAD COACH: Ted Dent ENTERED AHL: 2007-08 CALDER CUPS: None SEASONS IN PLAYOFFS: 3 of 4 2010-11 RECORD: 38-33-4-5, 85 pts.

WEBSITE: www.icehogs.com

SAN ANTONIO RAMPAGE

NHL AFFILIATION: Florida Panthers HOME ICE: AT&T Center (6,374) GENERAL MANAGER: Michael Santos HEAD COACH: Chuck Weber ENTERED AHL: 2002-03 CALDER CUPS: None SEASONS IN PLAYOFFS: 2 of 9 2010-11 RECORD: 40-33-4-3, 87 pts.

WEBSITE: www.sarampage.com 14 Grand Rapids GRIFFINS

NHL AFFILIATION: Dallas Stars HOME ICE: Cedar Park Center (6,863) GENERAL MANAGER: Scott White HEAD COACH: Jeff Pyle ENTERED AHL: 2009-10 CALDER CUPS: None SEASONS IN PLAYOFFS: 2 of 2 2010-11 RECORD: 41-29-4-6, 92 pts.

WEBSITE: www.texasstarshockey.com NHL AFFILIATION: Toronto Maple Leafs HOME ICE: Ricoh Coliseum (7,851) GENERAL MANAGER: Dave Nonis HEAD COACH: Dallas Eakins ENTERED AHL: 2005-06 CALDER CUPS: None SEASONS IN PLAYOFFS: 3 of 6 2010-11 RECORD: 37-32-1-10, 85 pts.

WEBSITE: www.marlies.ca

2011-12 PLAYOFF FORMAT Eight teams in each conference will qualify for the 2012 Calder Cup Playoffs, with the three division winners earning the top three seeds and the next five best teams in order of regular-season points seeded fourth through eighth.

The conference quarterfinals will be best-of-five series; the conference semifinals, conference finals and Calder Cup Finals will be best-of-seven series. Teams will be re-ordered after the first round so that the highestremaining seed plays the lowestremaining seed.

comerica.com

THE 2012 FORD EDGE | foxfordusa.com

The Edge gets noticed. It's just part of its nature. From the bold front grille through the fluid shapes and smooth lines that run the length of its body, the Edge looks like nothing else on the road. With a sleek roof, an aerodynamic shape and a commanding profile, the Edge is ready for action.

3560 28th Street SE, Grand Rapids MI | 616.956.5511 | foxfordusa.com

1.800.2.HOCKEY

griffinshockey.com

text GRIFF to 88188 for offers, info & more! /photos/griffinshockey 16 Grand Rapids GRIFFINS

/grgriffins

@griffinshockey /griffvision

Grand Rapids GRIFFINS 17

T

HISTORY

he American Hockey League is enjoying its 76th season of play in 2011-12, continuing a tradition of excellence that began in 1936 when the Canadian-American Hockey League merged with the International Hockey League to form what is today known as the AHL. Eight teams hit the ice that first season, playing in Buffalo, Cleveland, New Haven, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Providence, Springfield and Syracuse.

Frank Calder, the National Hockey League’s president at the time, was instrumental in the forming of the new league, and his name would be given to its championship trophy. The first Calder Cup was won by the Syracuse Stars; the 75th championship was captured by the Binghamton Senators last spring.

O

Terry Sawchuk Honored Member, Hockey Hall of Fame 1949 AHL Rookie of the Year 1950 Calder Cup Champion

LEGENDS

ver the past three-quarters of a century, the American Hockey League has been home to some of the greatest players in the history of our sport.

In fact, more than 100 honored members of the Hockey Hall of Fame have been affiliated with the AHL during their careers. All-time greats like George Armstrong, Toe Blake, Gump Worsley, Terry Sawchuk, Glenn Hall, Brad Park, Ken Dryden and Brett Hull came through the AHL ranks and now find themselves enshrined in Toronto, and the coveted Calder Cup trophy is inscribed with the names of legendary AHL alumni like Patrick Roy, Larry Robinson, Gerry Cheevers, Andy Bathgate, Tim Horton, Al Arbour, Emile Francis, Doug Harvey and Billy Smith.

T

he American Hockey League has created its own legends as well, and in 2006 began honoring them with the formation of the AHL Hall of Fame. The sixth class of inductees, recognized in 2011, included Mitch Lamoureux, Harry Pidhirny, Maurice Podoloff and Larry Wilson. They join the likes of Johnny Bower, Fred Glover, Jody Gage, Willie Marshall, Frank Mathers, Eddie Shore, Bruce Boudreau, Tim Tookey and others as distinguished members of the American Hockey League Hall of Fame.

In today’s National Hockey League, more than 87 percent of the players are AHL alumni, including 2011 Hart Trophy recipient Corey Perry and two-time Lady Byng Award winner Martin St. Louis. Three members of the 2010 AHL All-Rookie Team -- John Carlson, P.K. Subban and Logan Couture -- duplicated the feat in the NHL in 2010-11, and former Calder Cup finalists Shea Weber and Pekka Rinne were among the members of the NHL’s postseason First and Second All-Star Teams.

Photo: Nashville Predators

The 2011 Stanley Cup champion Boston Bruins were stocked with AHL graduates as well, among them Zdeno Chara, David Krejci, Patrice Bergeron, Brad Marchand and Vezina Trophy and Conn Smythe Trophy winner Tim Thomas.

Pekka Rinne 2011 Second Team NHL All-Star 2006, 2008 AHL All-Star

18 Grand Rapids GRIFFINS

PLAYERS

During the 2010-11 season, more than 850 AHL alumni played in the

COACHES

Photo: Boston Bruins

National Hockey League, including 320 who skated in both leagues last year alone. Buffalo’s Thomas Vanek, Ottawa’s Jason Spezza and Philadelphia’s Claude Giroux were among the 16 AHL graduates who led their NHL teams in scoring, and former AHL All-Stars Jimmy Howard, Jaroslav Halak and Miikka Kiprusoff were among the 27 AHL goaltending alumni who paced their NHL clubs in victories. More than 200 former first- and second-round draft picks developed their skills in the AHL last season, including breakout rookies like Luke Adam, Zac Dalpe, Kyle Palmieri, Nazem Kadri and 2011 Calder Cup Playoffs MVP Robin Lehner.

Former AHL goaltender Tim Thomas won the Vezina and Conn Smythe trophies with the Stanley Cup champion Boston Bruins in 2010-11.

At the start of the 2011-12 season, the NHL featured 23 head coaches who were former AHL bench

bosses, including the last seven Stanley Cup champions in Claude Julien (Boston, 2011), Joel Quenneville (Chicago, 2010), Dan Bylsma (Pittsburgh, 2009), Mike Babcock (Detroit, 2008), Randy Carlyle (Anaheim, 2007), Peter Laviolette (Carolina, 2006) and John Tortorella (Tampa Bay, 2004). New head coaches in the NHL this season include Florida’s Kevin Dineen, Dallas’s Glen Gulutzan, Minnesota’s Mike Yeo and Winnipeg’s Claude Noel, all promoted from the AHL during the offseason.

“The American Hockey League has been essential in developing my potential both as a player and as a coach.

Being able to hone my skills and improve at a high level of competition was key to reaching my goals of playing in the NHL, becoming a head coach and winning the Stanley Cup.” -- Dan Bylsma, Head Coach, Pittsburgh Penguins 2011 Jack Adams Award Winner, 2010 Stanley Cup Champion

The 2010-11 season saw more than 6 million fans attend AHL games for JustSports Photography

FANS

The Hershey Bears increased their attendance at Giant Center for the seventh year in a row while leading the AHL for the fifth consecutive season.

the 10th year in a row; since 2001, AHL games have been played before more than 65 million fans in arenas across North America. The Hershey Bears paced the league by averaging 9,800 fans per game last year, and on Feb. 19 the Connecticut Whale drew 21,673 fans to a celebration of hockey at Rentschler Field in East Hartford, Conn., that included the second outdoor game in AHL history.

STARS

The AHL All-Star Classic showcases the league’s top talent each year in

JustSports Photography/AHL

an All-Star Skills Competition and All-Star Game. The 2012 AHL All-Star Classic will be held at historic Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, N.J., on January 29-30, featuring the Eastern Conference All-Stars battling the Western Conference All-Stars in an event to be televised live across the U.S. and Canada. Of the 562 players to take part in the AHL All-Star Classic since 1995, more than 93 percent have competed in the National Hockey League, including Brad Boyes, Dan Boyle, Daniel Briere, Brian Campbell, Chris Kunitz, Ryan Miller, Zach Parise, Bobby Ryan, Jason Spezza, Eric Staal and Tomas Vokoun.

Bobby Butler 2011 AHL All-Star Game MVP

Grand Rapids GRIFFINS 19

IT FEELS GOOD...

The Griffins have numerous ways to help you stay connected with your team, both during games and when you are away from Van Andel Arena. to Griff Text your song requests message a d sen ply Sim 88.

881 at /artist) to reading “Griff (song title best to play 88188 and we’ll do our e. your song during the gam

We want to see your photos from the game! Share your pictures with us on our Facebook wall for the chance to win great prizes all season long.

20 Grand Rapids GRIFFINS

...TO CONNECT Check out our blog, Ha lf Eagle, Half Lion, All Griffin, and its Afternoon Shift posts for frequent com pilations of links to news, videos and fea tures about the Griffins and our NHL alu mni gathered from dozens of source s across the web.

Go to grgriffins.wordp ress.com.

Download the official Griffins iPhone and Android app, featuring schedule, roster, team and arena information and more.

Visit griffinshockey.com/app.

Let your friends know that you’re at the game and tha t they are missing out if they’r e not here too – check in when yo u get here on Foursquare or Faceb ook to get free stuff!

Twitter, For our fans who use hashtag the use you e sur ke ma from ing eet tw en wh #goGRG s will the games. Your tweet exterior be projected onto an ner of cor SE the screen near Van Andel Arena.

Most importantly, introduce yourself to your fellow fans sitting around you, have a good time, and cheer your hearts out for the Griffins!

DETROIT

RED WINGS

Photos: Getty Images

Griffins forwards Cory Emmerton, Tomas Tatar and Jan Mursak each scored his first NHL goal while playing for the Red Wings last season.

Since the Grand Rapids-Detroit affiliation began in 2002, Griffins fans have proudly watched 41 players move on to play for the Red Wings – including the likes of Jimmy Howard, Justin Abdelkader, Jonathan Ericsson, Valtteri Filppula, Darren Helm, Jiri Hudler and Niklas Kronwall – while also enjoying the opportunity to see some of Detroit’s brightest stars play at Van Andel Arena during conditioning stints and Red & White Games.

TOP AFFILIATE

Grand Rapids Griffins (AHL)

ARENA

Joe Louis Arena Seating Capacity: 20,066

INFO

Phone: (313) 394-7000 www.detroitredwings.com

STANLEY CUPS

1936, 1937, 1943, 1950, 1952, 1954, 1955, 1997, 1998, 2002, 2008

MANAGEMENT

Ken Holland, Executive VP/General Manager Jim Nill, VP/Assistant General Manager Ryan Martin, Asst. GM/Hockey Administration

COACHING STAFF

Mike Babcock, Head Coach Jeff Blashill, Assistant Coach Bill Peters, Assistant Coach Keith McKittrick, Video Coach Jim Bedard, Goaltending Coach Chris Osgood, Goaltending Development Coach Aaron Downey, AHL Strength and Conditioning Coach

GRIFFINS WHO HAVE EARNED THEIR WINGS* Justin Abdelkader, 2008-09 Sean Avery, 2002-03 Ryan Barnes, 2003-04 Patrick Boileau, 2002-03 Darryl Bootland, 2003-04 Aaron Downey, 2008-09 Matt Ellis, 2006-07 Cory Emmerton, 2010-11 Jonathan Ericsson, 2007-08 Valtteri Filppula, 2005-06 Mark Hartigan, 2007-08 Darren Helm, 2007-08 Jimmy Howard, 2005-06 Jiri Hudler, 2003-04 Matt Hussey, 2006-07 Doug Janik, 2009-10 Jakub Kindl, 2009-10 Tomas Kopecky, 2005-06 Niklas Kronwall, 2003-04 Marc Lamothe, 2003-04 Josh Langfeld, 2006-07

Brett Lebda, 2005-06 Ville Leino, 2008-09 Joey MacDonald, 2006-07 Donald MacLean, 2005-06 Darren McCarty, 2007-08 Tom McCollum, 2010-11 Derek Meech, 2006-07 Kevin Miller, 2003-04 Mark Mowers, 2003-04 Jan Mursak, 2010-11 Anders Myrvold, 2003-04 Kris Newbury, 2009-10 Kyle Quincey, 2005-06 Mattias Ritola, 2007-08 Jamie Rivers, 2003-04 Nathan Robinson, 2003-04 Stacy Roest, 2002-03 Garrett Stafford, 2007-08 Tomas Tatar, 2010-11 Jason Williams, 2002-03

* not including conditioning stints for Curtis Joseph (2003-04), Chris Osgood (2005-06), Manny Legace (2005-06), Chris Chelios (2008-09) and Andreas Lilja (2009-10).

Grand Rapids GRIFFINS 21

Story and photos by Mark Newman

Tatar was the Griffins’ second-leading scorer last season.

22 Grand Rapids GRIFFINS 22 Grand Rapids GRIFFINS

Tomas Tatar has set his sights on fulfilling the promise that he first showed as the youngest player in the American Hockey League.

Story and photos by Mark Newman

The tattoo of a long, sleek tiger stretches the length of Tomas Tatar’s ripped right arm, extending from shoulder to elbow, a refined rendering revealing a regal predator ready to pounce on its prey.

While inked impressions are often memories of impulsive indiscretions, drunken debauchery or wagers with little meaning, Tatar’s new tattoo came with clear intentions.

“It is my favorite animal,” he said. “A tiger battles his whole life in the jungle. He is proud. He works hard to survive. He is kind of like me. I want to battle through everything to make the NHL.” Given the popularity of bengals in Detroit, it seems an even wiser decision, but this young Slovak is more likely to be watching tennis than America’s favorite pastime.

As it is, Tatar is one hungry hockey player, ready to earn his stripes. He comes into the 2011-12 season prepared to demonstrate his territorial improvements, having worked to add bulk and power to his fit frame – a puck carnivore in the making.

“It was a long summer and I tried to work my best during it in order to get stronger,” Tatar declared in his slowly improving English. “I lifted weights, I run a little bit, I do a little bit of everything.”

He took time for a vacation in Bulgaria, the Balkan state to the far south of his homeland, but otherwise kept his eyes on the prize.

Still only 20 years old, Tatar knows time is on his side, but he has no interest in waiting. Like a tiger on the hunt, he wants to be ready to strike when the opportunity presents itself.

“I am still young,” said Tatar, who was the youngest player in the AHL when he joined the Griffins as a rookie two years ago. “I know I can get much stronger.

We will see how long it is before I hit my max, but hopefully it will be soon.”

The Red Wings organization has great interest in taming Tatar, whose talents and temperament attracted their attention in 2009 when they selected him in the second round (60th overall) of the NHL Entry Draft.

Griffins head coach Curt Fraser said there is plenty to like.

“We’ve got to remember he’s still a young guy playing against men in a tough, tough league,” he said.

“But he is more than capable of putting up some really good numbers. He’s maturing nicely and I think this is his year to really shine.”

Tatar made great strides during his second year in a Griffins uniform. After a rookie campaign that saw him register 16 goals and 16 assists in 58 games, he tallied 24 goals and 33 assists in 70 games last year.

“My first year, everything was all new: new language, new life in USA, different hockey,” Tatar said. “My second year, I know what to do and I get to play in all important situations.”

He admits that he felt fatigued after the finish of his first year, having started his workouts the previous June, then having played in the IIHF World Junior Championship at Christmas and traveled to Germany for the IIHF World Championship after the conclusion of his first AHL season.

“My whole body felt tired,” he said. “I got a good rest that next summer to prepare for my second year.”

His sophomore season included his NHL debut.

He played nine games for the Red Wings in 2010-11, scoring a goal on the first shot of his first game against the New York Islanders on New Year’s Eve. “I tried my best when I was there,” Tatar said.

“It’s not easy when you play on the fourth line, so I tried to skate and bring some energy and maybe hit somebody.”

The experience helped him greatly. “I felt so much more confident, like I could do more in Grand Rapids,” he said. “When I was sent back, I felt stronger, both physically and mentally.”

Red Wings assistant general manager Jim Nill has gone on record to say that he believes Tatar has the talent to be a top-six forward. “He can score, is competitive and is strong on the puck. He’s got a good chance of being a scorer at the next level.”

The Detroit organization rewarded Tatar with the opportunity to serve as a “black ace” during the 2011 Stanley Cup Playoffs. It left a strong impression on the young player.

“I thought I had done pretty well on the farm team, but I didn’t expect it,” he said. “It was something new for me because I went to the World Championships the year before. It was good to see how the guys prepare for a playoff game. It was a great experience.”

Tatar felt refreshed after a long summer, and it showed when he came to Traverse City for the Red Wings’ training camp.

“He had an excellent camp,” Fraser said. “Getting another good year under his belt will prepare him much better for next year.”

As much as Tatar improved during 2010-11, Fraser hopes for even bigger and better things this season.

“He just has to work on his game and continue to improve – get faster, stronger, find the net and produce more goals,” Fraser said. “He’s improved a lot, but he still has a long ways to go. But in the back of your mind, you’ve got to remember that he’s still very young.”

Despite his relative youth, Tatar showed stretches of brilliance last season. He set a franchise record for points in one game when he recorded seven (two goals and five assists) last Nov. 27 in Chicago. He was the first AHL player to score seven points in a game since Chicago’s Jason Krog accomplished the feat four years earlier.

Tatar insists that he doesn’t want to get wrapped up in his own statistics. He desires to help his team win, whether or not his name is on the scoresheet.

Grand Rapids GRIFFINS 23

Tatar served as a “black ace” with Detroit during the 2011 Stanley Cup Playoffs.

“The numbers will come,” he said. “It’s more important how the team does. If the team plays well, my numbers will be higher. I’m just going to try my best for the team.”

From the standpoint of team performance, Tatar would be the first to admit that last year was a disappointment. Missing the playoffs did nothing to further his career aspirations.

“We worked hard the whole year and we got close but never took that final step to catch the next team,” he said. “It was disappointing, for sure.”

He seems confident that the Griffins can avoid a similar fate this season. “We have a team that’s even better, so hopefully we can make the playoffs. I would be happy because it will make me stronger for my future.”

It is a future that excites many Red Wings fans.

“If Tomas continues to work on things here, everything will take care of itself when he gets to the Wings,” Fraser said. “This is a good learning ground for him because it’s tough to play in the AHL. “While it’s hard to play in the NHL, it sometimes is easier for a good player because the passes are a little bit sharper and people are in the right spots.

“Hopefully he’ll continue to grow into the player that Detroit hopes he will become.”

3560 28th Street SE, Grand Rapids MI 616.956.5511 | foxfordusa.com

THE ALL-NEW 2012 FORD FOCUS Available in 7 fuel-efficient models | foxfordusa.com 24 Grand Rapids GRIFFINS

Grand Rapids GRIFFINS 25

SPECIAL DAY

The return of the Detroit Red Wings to Van Andel Arena rekindled memories for the players and fans alike.

For Red Wings stars like Nicklas Lidstrom, Pavel Datsyuk, Henrik Zetterberg and Tomas Holmstrom, it was a return to repay the loyalty of West Michigan hockey fans.

For teammates like Justin Abdelkader, Valtteri Filppula, Jimmy Howard, Jiri Hudler and Niklas Kronwall, it was a trip back to memory lane, where each had spent a formative period in his hockey career.

Either way, it was a special day when the Red Wings skated onto the ice of Van Andel Arena before an appreciative crowd of 10,174 on Sept. 27, marking the first Red & White intrasquad game in Grand Rapids since 2003.

Ex-Griffins Filppula and Hudler each scored a pair of goals to pace Team Red to a 6-4 victory over Team White in a spirited scrimmage that also featured the talents of a number of current prospects who are expected to play in Grand Rapids during the 2011-12 season.

The actual score mattered less than the opportunity to work out what Abdelkader described as the “rust and kinks” that players encounter as they prepare themselves for the challenge of the coming campaign.

“It’s always good to be back here, especially playing in front of a full crowd,” Abdelkader said. “Seeing the

support we have in West Michigan is pretty special.

Any time you can come back to the old stomping grounds, it’s a lot of fun.”

Hudler remarked that he reminisced with Filppula and Kronwall about the time they had spent as members of the Griffins organization. “We talked about it on the ice before the game, how it was nice to be back. This is a great building and we have lots of memories here.”

Kronwall agreed. “It was a great time in my life and I’m really happy that I was fortunate enough to play here,” he said. “Off the ice, it was the most fun I’ve ever had playing hockey.”

Howard won’t ever forget his time in Grand Rapids.

“Those years were huge for me,” he said. “They taught me how to be a professional and how to prepare for an 80-game schedule after college. I had four great years here and it prepared me well for the next step.”

All of the players were humbled by the enthusiastic support of Red Wings fans in West Michigan. “It says we’ve got some of the best fans in the NHL,” Howard said. “To come here and have the arena practically sold out for an intrasquad scrimmage, it’s special.”

“It was a good night,” Hudler said.

Griffins head coach Curt Fraser was behind the bench for Team White.

Jimmy Howard stopped all 12 shots that he faced during his one period of action.

26 Grand Grand Rapids Rapids GRIFFINS GRIFFINS 26

Valtteri Filppula is congratulated by Todd Bertuzzi, Johan Franzen and Niklas Kronwall after the first of his two goals.

Logan Pyett attempts to protect the puck from the onrushing Justin Abdelkader.

Niklas Kronwall, Tomas Holmstrom and Pavel Datsyuk admire a pad save by Jimmy Howard.S:4.875”

Red Wings captain Nicklas Lidstrom led Team White onto the ice.

enjoy a

great steak guys night out over

Grand Rapids | 616.776.6426 Inside the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel | ruthschris.com

Grand Rapids Rapids GRIFFINS GRIFFINS 27 27 Grand

S:3.8125”

and a few beers.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR! 2011-12 GRIFFINS PROMOTIONAL SCHEDULE

Oct. 14: Opening Night Dec. 3: Salute to Heroes and presented by Xfinity/Glow Bam Scout Night presented by Giveaway/Post-Game Fireworks Centennial Securities/Patriotic Rally Towel Giveaway Oct. 28: Halloween Costume Party/Clingz Schedule Giveaway Dec. 31: 15th Annual New Year’s Eve Celebration presented Nov. 5: Griffins Calendar

by Fox Honda/Team Poster Giveaway presented by Delta Giveaway/Jersey Auction to Imports/Appearance by Quick benefit GVSU club roller hockey/ Change, performers featured on Post-Game Fireworks America’s Got Talent Jan. 20: Super Fan Nov. 9: 11th Annual Matinee Cameron Hughes Game presented by Lake Michigan Credit Union Jan. 21: Fleece Hockey Helmet Giveaway presented by Nov. 18: Key Ring Bottle Opener MetroPCS/Appearance by the Giveaway ZOOperstars/Jersey Auction Nov. 19: Griffins Coaster Jan. 21-22: Annual Great Skate Giveaway presented by Winterfest at Rosa Parks Circle in Nordic Hot Tubs Downtown Grand Rapids Nov. 25: Annual Teddy Bear Toss for Hug-A-Bears of Kent County

Feb. 4: Hockey Day in West Michigan presented by Lake Michigan Credit Union/Niklas Kronwall Bobblehead Giveaway

Nov. 27: Mascot Mania/ Griffins Give Back/“Be Your Own Feb. 11: Griffins Playing Card Bobblehead” T-Shirt Giveaway Giveaway presented by (first 1,500 kids 12 and under) J&H Family Stores

Feb. 12: Brendan Smith Bobblehead Giveaway presented

by Michigan Office Solutions Feb. 18: Community for the Cure Purple Game presented by Van Andel Institute/Rally Towel Giveaway/Paintjam with Dan Dunn, a one-of-a-kind speed painter/Jersey Auction March 3: Star Wars Night March 17: Griffins BBQ Set Giveaway presented by Comerica Bank/Jersey Auction to benefit PennyBen & American Cancer Society’s Hope Lodge March 31: Greg Amadio Bobblefists Giveaway presented

by Appletree Christian Learning Centers/Appearance by the Russian Bar Trio circus act featured on America’s Got Talent April 13: Season Finale presented by Huntington Bank/“Beat Chicago” Rally Towel Giveaway/Jersey Auction

Nov. 18

SEASON-LONG PROMOTIONS

Dollar Beers and Hot Dogs: Every Friday, enjoy $1 hot dogs and $1 domestic drafts from 6-8 p.m., while supplies last.

Get in the D-ZONE: Every Friday night is a Griffins WGRD D-Zone night. Avoid the concession lines and get your $1 beers and $1 hot dogs served to you in your seats! Call 774-4585 ext. 2 or visit griffinshockey.com/dzone to get your tickets today!

College Nights: Every Friday, college students can show their ID to purchase a lower bowl ticket for $13 (or $11 in advance at The Zone) and stop by the McFadden’s concourse table to receive a free pass to the post-game party at McFadden’s.

Free Ride Friday on The Rapid: Ride the Rapid to and from any Friday game and enjoy a complimentary fare by showing your ticket to that night’s game. Visit ridetherapid.org for schedule information, routes and maps.

Wednesday is Hockey Night: After every Wednesday home game from December through February, show your ticket to that night’s game to receive great food and drink specials at participating Arena District restaurants and bars.

Visit griffinshockey.com/hockeynight for a list of participating restaurants (subject to change).

Winning Wednesday presented by Amway: Every time the Griffins win at home on Wednesday, each fan in attendance will receive a free ticket to the next Wednesday game. Additionally, the first 200 fans to visit the Amway table in Section A will receive a free t-shirt.

Sunday is Fun Day!: Every Sunday, enjoy $1 Cole’s Breadsticks and $1 Pepsi drinks from 4-6 p.m. Enjoy live music from Jaded 8 and the J&H Family Stores Post-Game Skate.

Senior Sunday presented by MapleCreek Senior Living: Every Sunday, fans 55 and older with ID can purchase a Lower Level Center Ice ticket for $15 and play bingo in the arena banquet room from 4-5 p.m. Visit griffinshockey.com/senior for more information.

Library Nights: For every Sunday and Wednesday game, fans can present their Grand Rapids Public Library card or Kent District Library card at the Van Andel Arena box office on the night of the game or at The Zone anytime during the store’s regular business hours to save $7 off the price of a Lower Level Faceoff ticket (regularly $18 in advance and $20 day of game). Limit four tickets per card per person, subject to availability.

Nov. 5 Nov. 19

Fan 4 Packs: For select games, receive four tickets and $12 in concession cash for a great low price. Valid for games on Nov. 5 and 19; Dec. 3; Jan. 21; Feb. 11; and March 17 and 31. Visit griffinshockey.com/f4p or call (616) 774-4585 ext. 2.

J&H Family Stores Post-Game Skates: Oct. 14; Nov. 5, 19 and 27; Dec. 31; Feb. 4, 11 and 12; March 3, 17 and 31; and April 13.

Huntington Bank Post-Game Autograph Sessions: Nov. 5 and 19; Dec. 3; Feb. 4, 12 and 18; and March 17.

MOS Corner Office presented by Michigan Office Solutions: Located on the terrace level above section 118, this section provides the best seats in the house for groups of up to 30 people, with La-Z-Boy chairs and an array of amenities. Call (616) 774-4585.

Nov. 25 28 Grand Rapids GRIFFINS

Feb. 18

All promotions and dates subject to change. For more information, visit griffinshockey.com.

Adopt

Fracis Pare with Auba

Your next teammate!

October isn’t just the start of Hockey season... it’s also “Adopt a Shelter Dog Month” and the Grand Rapids Griffins know just the right place to find your next four-legged friend.

Mackenzie’s Animal Sanctuary, the largest no-kill dog Sanctuary in the Midwest, dedicated to providing “a home along the way” for abused, abandoned and neglected dogs in need, may just have the next member of your team, patiently waiting on the bench, for you to put them in the game.

The dogs at MAS have been busy “training” during the “off-season” and are ready for YOU to give them a second “shot” at life and a forever home.

Visit our website today to see all of our adoptable dogs.

ENZI E CK A

Y

AR

U

A NI M

A

’S

M

Frankie might even give you an autograph!

T LS ANC

www.mackenzies.info

Grand Rapids GRIFFINS 29

SAVVY INVESTMENT The Red Wings are hopeful that time spent in Grand Rapids will pay big dividends for prospect Gustav Nyquist.

Cory Emmerton 30 Grand Rapids GRIFFINS

Story and photos

by Mark Newman

Nyquist was a fourth-round pick of the Red Wings in the 2008 NHL Entry Draft.

If Gustav Nyquist lived his life strictly by the numbers, he would probably be playing hockey in the Swedish Elite League, not North America.

But the 22-year-old Detroit Red Wings prospect took a different route than most players his age in Sweden. Taking stock of his circumstances, he decided he wanted to leverage his odds.

The safe bet would have been to stay in Sweden and play in the top league there for a few years until he was ready to ply his trade in the National Hockey League.

Nyquist, however, was smart enough to know that you can’t always bank on things working out exactly as you plan. So he intended to hedge his bets and continue to pursue an education while playing hockey.

“In Sweden, you can’t study and play hockey at the same time because we don’t have university sports like here,” said Nyquist, who finished third academically in his high school class. “I wanted to try something new. I wanted to go a different route.”

He decided he wanted to play college hockey in North America, a decision fully supported by his parents. After all, his orthopedic surgeon father, Fredrik, and architect mother, Eva, had experienced the benefits of a good education themselves.

“Obviously, you can’t play hockey your whole life, even though you want to,” Nyquist explained. “I’ve always felt that an education was something good to have to fall back on.”

Nyquist had his choice of a number of American colleges. As luck would have it, he decided on the University of Maine, known as much for having one of the best hockey programs in the country as for its forestry, engineering and business schools.

In addition to boasting two national championships (1993 and 1999), the school counts Paul Kariya and Red Wings goalie Jimmy Howard among its alumni.

Going to Maine, the only land grant university located on an island, required some adjusting on the part of Nyquist, who hails from the metropolis of Malmo, the third most populous city in Sweden.

By contrast, Maine is situated in Orono, a small, insular college town where seemingly everyone is connected to the school in some fashion.

“There were adjustments, both off and on the ice,” said Nyquist, a self-confessed “city boy” who nonetheless grew to appreciate the quaintness of the university town. College life was another matter altogether.

“Suddenly you’re taking classes in English, not Swedish, and that’s a little different,” he said. “You have to learn how to budget your time off the ice because you have homework and you need to study. I think it makes you grow up a little faster.”

Acclimating his play to the smaller rinks in North America also took some time, perhaps a couple of months by his estimation, but Nyquist capitalized on his decision.

Nyquist was a candidate for the Hobey Baker Award as college hockey’s top player the past two seasons.

At Maine, Nyquist excelled both in the classroom and on the ice. He was a fixture on the Dean’s List as a straight-A student. His major was finance, a subject that had long intrigued him.

“I like following my own portfolio,” said Nyquist, whose list of holdings covers both the Swedish stock exchange and Wall Street. “I like to keep track of it, and it’s something to do away from the rink.”

Drafted by the Red Wings in the fourth round of the 2008 NHL Entry Draft, Nyquist made sure his stock on the ice went up, growing stronger and capitalizing on the ample ice time he was afforded by the coaches.

He led the nation in scoring during 200910 and twice was a finalist for the Hobey Baker Award, the honor given to the best college player in the nation. “It was a huge honor to be considered two years in a row,” he said.

The major letdown of his time at Maine was that the Black Bears never qualified for the postseason during his time at the school. “It’s obviously a disappointment when your goal is to reach the NCAA tournament,” he said.

After his junior year, Nyquist decided it was time to cash in. “I felt like I was ready for a new challenge,” he said, explaining his decision to leave school and sign a two-year entry level contract with the Red Wings.

Grand Rapids GRIFFINS 31

“Detroit is giving me a big opportunity here,” he said. “It’s been my dream since I was a little kid to be part of an organization like Detroit, and I couldn’t be happier.”

The Red Wings, in fact, have been Nyquist’s favorite team since he was a boy, which is not surprising given that the roster is loaded with Swedes – Nicklas Lidstrom, Henrik Zetterberg, Johan Franzen, Tomas Holmstrom, Niklas Kronwall and Jonathan Ericsson.

He attended his first Red Wings training camp this fall and wasted little time in making an impression. After a solid performance in the prospects tournament, he turned a few heads during the team’s intra-squad scrimmages.

“Nyquist is a real good hockey player,” Red Wings head coach Mike Babcock told the assembled throng of media. “He’s like Pav (Datsyuk) in that he skates faster with the puck than he does without it, creates space every time he’s on the ice. He’s professional with and without the puck. He’s an NHL player.”

The Griffins gave Nyquist a brief audition late last season when he appeared in eight games after the completion of Maine’s season. He tallied one goal and three assists during his introduction to pro hockey.

Griffins head coach Curt Fraser certainly liked what he saw.

“He’s got everything – skilled, fast, a real good playmaker,” Fraser told Grand Rapids Press beat writer Michael Zuidema. “I don’t think you’re

one of the top players in college hockey by accident, and this kid did it for three years straight.

He was a welcome addition to our team.”

Nyquist thinks the late-season stay provided him with invaluable insight into the pro game.

“It was a good experience to get in those eight games,” he said. “It’ll help for sure, because I got a taste and I now know what to expect.”

Of course, there could be more ups and downs than the volatile Dow Jones Industrial Average. Fraser expects that Nyquist’s assets may not be entirely evident at the outset, as he will need some time to adjust.

“He’s a gifted player. He does some real good things, but he’s a young man,” Fraser said. “College hockey and the American League are a lot different.

He’s just got to get a little experience and time, and as soon as he does that, he’ll be gold.”

Nyquist is prepared to invest every ounce of his being into proving that he is, indeed, an NHL player.

“I’m just going to come to the rink every day and work as hard as possible to do my best,” he said. “I want to help us get into the playoffs and make some noise. That’s definitely the first goal.”

Jan Mursak

SPECIALISTS IN COMMERCIAL & INDUSTRIAL RECYCLING www.riverside-recycling.com (616) 451-0288 32 Grand Rapids GRIFFINS

Grand Rapids GRIFFINS 33

s u o i c i l e .

D . . s 3 n o i t p O

W at e r m a r k P r o P e rt i e s P r e s e n t s

Watermark Properties provides three delicious dining options in the Grand Rapids area. Relax in a casual bistro-style restaurant, bar or dine outside on one of our patios while enjoying affordable, fresh, award-winning cuisine. Dine with family or friends and take in the beautiful golf course views.

Cascade

Burton

Spaulding

Forest Hills

196

28th Street

131

60th St. SE

Cascade

m6

m

m6

76th St. SE

Spaulding

28th Street 131

10

BEST RcAhPEIDfS Voted 20

Kalamazoo Ave. SE

131

Eastern Ave. SE

Division Ave. SE

196

Clyde Park Ave. SE

Burton

Forest Hills

68th St. SE

BY

GRAND

e MAGAzIN

Open to the Public!

St. SW 8th Ave.

Kalamazoo Ave. SE

76th St. SE

Port Sheldon

Wilson Ave. SW

r.

D ago

Chic

Eastern Ave. SE

Division Ave. SE

Clyde Park Ave. SE

131

Canal

m6

68th St. SE

Cascade

196

r.

Baldwin St. m6

m

Burton

Forest Hills

60th St. SE

196

WA TE RM A R K

Spaulding

dD oo nw tto Co

131

Count ry Club

196

28th Street

44 St.

131 7177 Kalamazoo Ave., Caledonia, MI 49316 616.656.9898

34 34 Grand Grand Rapids Rapids GRIFFINS GRIFFINS

624 Port Sheldon Rd., Grandville, MI 49418 616.457.1100

5500 Cascade Rd., Grand Rapids, MI 49546 616.949.0570

www.WatermarkPropertiesClubs.com 131

60th St. SE

Sports Medicine Center

Official Orthopaedic Physicians

Physicians

of the Grand Rapids Griffins.

William W. Schwab, M.D., F.A.C.S.

Excellent medicine. Personalized care.

Thomas M. Matelic, M.D. Peter C. Theut, M.D. Michael R.F. Jabara, M.D.

Phone 616-459-7101 www.OAMichigan.com

Grand Rapids GRIFFINS 35

2011-2012

ROSTER

19

18

GREG AMADIO Defenseman 6-2, 230 lbs.

Born: 5/13/81 Sault Ste. Marie, Ont.

8

22

JOAKIM ANDERSSON Forward 6-2, 205 lbs.

Born: 2/5/89 Munkedal, Sweden

25 WILLIE COETZEE Forward 5-10, 188 lbs.

Born: 11/7/90 Johannesburg, South Africa

2

CHRIS CONNER Forward 5-7, 180 lbs.

Born: 12/23/83 Livonia, Mich.

29 GARNET EXELBY Defenseman 6-1, 210 lbs.

Born: 8/16/91 Craik, Sask.

36 Grand Rapids GRIFFINS

LANDON FERRARO Forward 6-0, 174 lbs.

Born: 8/8/91 Trail, B.C.

15

LOUIS-MARC AUBRY Forward 6-4, 205 lbs.

Born: 11/11/91 Arthabaska, Que.

4

MITCH CALLAHAN Forward 5-11, 175 lbs.

Born: 8/17/91 Whittier, Calif.

23 TRAVIS EHRHARDT Defenseman 5-11, 205 lbs.

Born: 4/12/89 Calgary, Alta.

20 GLEASON FOURNIER Defenseman 6-0, 191 lbs.

Born: 9/8/91 Rimouski, Que.

ADAM ESTOCLET Forward 6-1, 190 lbs.

Born: 3/24/89 Naperville, Ill.

33 DOUG JANIK Defenseman 6-1, 215 lbs.

Born: 3/26/80 Agawam, Mass.

Together, we put up some good stats.

It comes by playing the exciting games from the Michigan Lottery. First, it’s good for our kids, because all the profits — $701 million last year — go to the state School Aid Fund to help public schools. It’s also good for the 10,000 retailers who sell Lottery tickets and earned $170 million in commissions last year. And for all the players who shared $1.38 billion in prizes, winning sure is good! In fact, over 94 cents of every Lottery dollar goes back into the community as prizes, retailer commissions and contributions to public schools. The Michigan Lottery. All across the state, good things happen. www.michiganlottery.com Grand If you bet more than you can afford to lose, you’ve got a problem. Call 1-800-270-7117 for confidential help.Rapids GRIFFINS 37

Photo by Mark Newman

Photo by Mark Newman

40 Grand Rapids GRIFFINS

10

32 JAMIE JOHNSON Forward 5-10, 182 lbs.

Born: 1/23/82 London, Ont.

14

31 BRIAN LASHOFF Defenseman 6-3, 212 lbs.

Born: 7/16/90 Albany, N.Y.

11

CHRIS MINARD Forward 6-1, 200 lbs.

Born: 11/18/81 Owen Sound, Ont.

21

13

ANDREJ NESTRASIL Forward 6-2, 210 lbs.

Born: 2/2/91 Praha, Czech Republic

1 TREVOR PARKES Forward 6-2, 188 lbs.

Born: 5/13/91 Fort Erie, Ont.

12

GUSTAV NYQUIST Forward 5-11, 185 lbs.

Born: 9/1/89 Halmstad, Sweden

JORDAN PEARCE Goaltender 6-1, 195 lbs.

Born: 10/10/86 Anchorage, Alaska

BRYAN RUFENACH Defenseman 6-0, 192 lbs.

Born: 4/15/89 Barrie, Ont.

TOM McCOLLUM Goaltender 6-2, 215 lbs.

Born: 12/7/89 Sanborn, N.Y.

9

16

44 BRENT RAEDEKE Forward 6-0, 200 lbs.

Born: 5/29/90 Regina, Sask.

30 JOEY MacDONALD Goaltender 6-0, 198 lbs.

Born: 2/7/80 Pictou, N.S.

FRANCIS PARE Forward 5-10, 190 lbs.

Born: 6/30/87 Lemoyne, Que.

3 SEBASTIEN PICHE Defenseman 6-0, 197 lbs.

Born: 2/4/88 La Sarre, Que.

7

LOGAN PYETT Defenseman 5-10, 195 lbs.

Born: 5/26/88 Regina, Sask.

27 BRENDAN SMITH Defenseman 6-2, 198 lbs.

Born: 2/8/89 Mimico, Ont.

TOMAS TATAR Forward 5-10, 186 lbs.

Born: 12/1/90 Ilava, Slovakia Grand Rapids GRIFFINS 37

TURN YOUR GAME TICKET OVER...

38 Grand Rapids GRIFFINS

Great offers from:

WHY ARE LOCAL ATHLETES SO

HAPPY? They can get expert care in one convenient spot at the Metro Health Sports Medicine Center.

With experienced sports medicine physicians, orthopedic surgeons and physical therapists all working together, we’ll get you in quickly and back to your activities sooner.

Open Saturdays 9 am-noon during key sports seasons!

In the YMCA at Metro Health Village

(616) 252-7778 • metrohealth.net Proud to be the official medical provider for the Grand Rapids Griffins.

Like a goalie . . .

We protect what matters most. Lighthouse Group and Auto- Owners Insurance have been insuring hockey fans since 1916.

Call us for all your insurance needs!

1-800-344-3531

www.lighthousegroup.net

Graffiti 2011-2012.pdf 1 9/16/2011 10:44:35 AM

We’ve Got a Great Save Percentage.

Our high-yield Max Checking account offers one of the best rates you can find anywhere!

Call, click or visit us today!

LMCU.org • (800 or 616) 242-9790 40 Grand Rapids GRIFFINS

Federally insured by NCUA

The Griffins’ new athletic trainer is glad to be back in his home state; concussions will be just one of his concerns.

John Bernal is in a unique position.

As an athletic trainer, he is responsible for helping players feel they are ready to perform at their peak capabilities. It is an assignment that is primarily physical – preventing and treating injuries – but it is partly psychological, making sure a guy’s head is screwed on right before he gets back on the ice.

It’s not an especially easy job, particularly when you’re working with big, tough guys who aren’t always willing to go to the bench, even for their own good. Bernal, however, thrives on the challenge.

He is thrilled to be working for the Griffins this season. Not only is he excited about being employed by a first-class organization, but he is also happy to be close to family and friends.

A native of Pinckney, near Howell, Bernal said it was important for him and his wife Susan, a pharmacist, to return to Michigan to raise their two kids, Madison, age 4-1/2, and Jackson, age 3.

“Being back in Michigan was the most important thing for me and my family,” he said. “This job’s awesome and the opportunity to be close to the kids’ grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins at the same time was too good to be true.”

Bernal earned his bachelor’s degree in sports medicine at Central Michigan University in 1999, then earned his master’s degree two years later at Arizona State University, where he was head trainer for the wrestling team and one of the assistants for the football team.

After finishing school, he headed to Lake Superior State University in Sault Ste. Marie, where his wife has roots. He spent two seasons with the Upper Peninsula school before moving into the pro ranks with the ECHL’s Texas Wildcatters.

Bernal spent the past three seasons as the assistant athletic trainer for the NHL’s Phoenix Coyotes, following a four-year stint as head athletic trainer for the club’s AHL affiliates in San Antonio (2005-08) and Utah (2004-05).

“It was awesome being in the NHL – it’s everybody’s dream to get there – but with two little kids, we’re looking to finally settle down,” Bernal said. “We felt like, ‘Let’s grow some roots here.’ That means a lot to us now.”

Bernal had originally dreamed of working in the National Football League, but his exposure to the USA Hockey’s development program while a student

For the last three years, Bernal was the assistant athletic trainer for the NHL’s Phoenix Coyotes.

Grand Rapids GRIFFINS 41

A native of Pinckney, Bernal earned his sports medicine degree from Central Michigan University. at CMU led him to fall in love with the sport.

“I get to work with a great group of guys in a fun, family atmosphere,” he said. “Once you’re in the hockey community, it’s really a small world and you get to know a lot of players and coaches as you travel around the leagues.”

He also enjoys the unpredictability of his work.

When he comes to the rink, he never knows what to expect from one day to the next.

“When something happens and somebody gets hurt, it could be anything, from a pulled muscle to a broken bone, which means you have to be prepared.

Anything can happen, so you’ve got to be ready.”

And that brings Bernal to the topic of concussions, a growing concern not only in hockey but in all sports.

“Players today are bigger, faster, stronger,” Bernal said. “We have a lot of equipment to protect the body, but it’s very hard to protect the brain.

There have been great strides in helmets, and we’re making progress, but there’s still a ways to go.”

A concussion is a mild to traumatic brain injury that commonly occurs in contact sports like hockey and football. Effects of a concussion – problems with headaches, dizziness, concentration, memory, judgment, balance or coordination – are often temporary, but may become troubling if another concussion occurs.

Second-impact syndrome, in which the brain swells dangerously after a minor blow, can develop if a person receives a second concussion days or weeks after an initial incident and before the original symptoms have cleared.

“It’s the little ones that add up and become a problem,” Bernal explained. “It’s the impact of 42 Grand Rapids GRIFFINS

repetitive brain trauma that is raising concerns.”

Eric Lindros, Keith Primeau and, more recently, Sidney Crosby are examples of excellent players who have had to deal with the devastating effects of concussions.

According to Bernal, the difficulty lies in determining when a concussion actually occurs.

“You can see the ones when the player is laying on the ice, knocked unconscious and taken off the ice on a spine board,” he said. “It’s the ones that you can’t see and guys ignore that may cause problems.”

Athletic trainers do their best to check out players whenever there is a concern, even if the players don’t want to acknowledge that they may have suffered an injury.

“These are tough guys who are used to being bumped in the head. They’ll say they’re fine – the cobwebs can clear pretty quickly – and it’s no big deal. But if a player shows even the slightest sign of anything, we try to get them somewhere they can be checked out.”

The NHL developed a neurological baseline test to help trainers and physicians determine whether there are any changes in cognitive function following a concussion.

League protocol, meanwhile, requires players to sit until they have proven themselves to be symptomfree both at rest and at exertion for at least 24 hours.

The process starts with the trainer’s initial evaluation. Players are asked a number of basic questions: Where are we? Who are we playing? What just happened?

“It goes back to basic first aid,” Bernal said.

“We’re performing triage on the ice, not a complete evaluation. We’re trying to determine whether we need the medics or a physician. We want to diagnose things quickly so they can be treated promptly.”

If a physician suspects the player may have suffered a concussion, the player will undergo extensive testing. If cleared, the player will go through workouts that will gradually increase in intensity.

Variables such as the severity of the injury and whether the player has suffered concussions previously will determine how soon he might return to action.

Trainers will always err on the side of caution.

Players, by their very nature, insist on throwing caution to the wind. “These are guys who don’t want to come off the ice for anything,” Bernal said.

In the meantime, hockey leagues are making strides to reduce the number of head injuries.

Most circuits are cracking down on headhunters and doling out punishment in the form of lengthy suspensions to serial offenders.

“There’s a greater awareness of concussions throughout the NHL as well as through the minor leagues,” Bernal said. “The more awareness, the more likely it is that we can do something about it. I think we’re moving in the right direction.”

MaxiMize Your there is no off season

Potential

SPORTS PERFORMANCE

Sports performance training designed for the individual All Sports & Ability Levels / Boys & Girls Ages 7+

MvpsportsClubs.com

Grand Rapids GRIFFINS 43

Grand Rapids GRIFFINS 43 GRAND RAPIDS 616-328-8115 | ROCKFORD 616-784-8767 | HOLLAND 616-594-7022

Former Griffins Pavol Demitra, Karel Rachunek and Stefan Liv were victims of the Russian plane crash that killed the entire Lokomotiv Yaroslavl hockey team.

Mike Fountain was working at the Walker Ice and Fitness Center on Sept. 7 when a friend called him with news about a plane crash in Russia.

The former Griffins goaltender initially shrugged off the news. Having played seven years in Russia, he had experienced his share of white-knuckle flights, so the report of a plane going down in the former Soviet Union was hardly shocking.

“But Mike,” his friend said, “these were hockey players.”

The blood rushed from Fountain’s face. He quickly found a computer. An Internet search revealed not only the sketchy details of the crash, but also the roster of the Lokomotiv Yaroslavl hockey team.

His worst fears were confirmed.

“In Russia, you shake hands after every game, and I was able to put a face to almost every name on that list,” Fountain said. “I was in shock. It was just a terrible, terrible tragedy.”

The private Yakovlev jet carrying the Kontinental Hockey League team crashed shortly after takeoff, killing 43 people, including several former NHL players.

Pavol Demitra

44 Grand Rapids GRIFFINS

Among the dead were three former Griffins: Pavol Demitra, 36, who played 16 NHL seasons and was captain of the Slovakian national team; Karel Rachunek, 32, the Lokomotiv team captain and a veteran of eight NHL seasons, and Stefan Liv, 30, the Polish-born Swedish goaltender and one-time Red Wings prospect.

Also killed were Lokomotiv head coach Brad McCrimmon, 52, the former Red Wings assistant who had left Detroit to pursue his dream of becoming a head coach; and Ruslan “Rusty” Salei, 36, the veteran defenseman from Belarus who played for the Red Wings in 2010-11.

The news rocked the close-knit hockey world, which was already reeling from the recent deaths of players Derek Boogaard, Rick Rypien and Wade Belak by various causes.

The Lokomotiv team, which was en route to its first game of the season, was one of the country’s best-known hockey teams. The fact that the players lost in the accident were well-traveled professionals made the tragedy seem even worse. That most were young fathers made it more catastrophic.

“Hockey is a close family,” said Griffins assistant coach Jim Paek, who knew both McCrimmon and Salei as well as Liv. “Even if you didn’t know them all, you’re still affected. It’s such a small community.”

Demitra was probably the best-known of the players who perished. He recorded 304 goals and 464 assists in 847 NHL games with Ottawa, St. Louis, Los Angeles, Minnesota and Vancouver.

He tallied 20 goals and 30 assists in 42 games with the Griffins during the team’s inaugural season in 1996-97. In March 1997, Demitra became the first of Grand Rapids’ 117 NHL graduates when he was recalled by the St. Louis Blues, with whom he enjoyed his best years. He topped the 35-goal mark three times.

In Grand Rapids, Demitra played on a line with Michel Picard and Jeff Nelson, the younger brother of Todd Nelson, the first player signed by the Griffins and the current coach of the AHL’s Oklahoma City Barons.

“They were one of the best lines at the time,” Todd Nelson said. “Pavol was very dynamic, very creative. He wasn’t very big, but he worked hard to get stronger, and you could see that he had what it took to get to the next level.”

Story by Mark Newman

Matt Ruchty, who played for the Griffins from 1996-99, remembers Demitra as a player that clearly didn’t look like he belonged in the IHL. “He was young, a great player who didn’t realize how good he really was,” said Ruchty, who was fortunate to get some ice time on the same line with Demitra. “He was clearly better than everybody else.”

Ruchty recalls that Demitra and Picard had great chemistry. “Michel was a little older than he was, but it was obvious that Pavol knew what he was doing. He was such an offensive force. He was in total control.”

Demitra and Picard “were just awesome,” recalls Travis Richards, who played 10 seasons with the Griffins before retiring in 2006. “They were absolutely dynamite together.”

Richards said everyone knew that Demitra was never coming back when he left the team for the NHL. “”You knew he was going to be in the NHL for a long time. That he would become an NHL All-Star was no surprise.”

Demitra broke his nose twice during his halfseason with the Griffins, but he appreciated the opportunity to play in Grand Rapids nonetheless.

“To see 11,000 fans go crazy every night no matter if we win is unbelievable,” he told Griffiti.

Grand Rapids, however, was only a stepping stone.

“Everybody in my country have dream to come here and play in the NHL,” he said in his broken English, which would improve over time. “It was my dream when I started playing when I was three years old.”

Ruchty remembers going to a tattoo parlor with Demitra and teammate Bruce Ramsay.

“He wasn’t sure he wanted to get a tattoo, but he eventually decided to get one. He didn’t have a super grip on the language, but he was a fun guy.”

Rachunek knew even less English when he came to the Griffins as an Ottawa Senators prospect from the Czech Republic in 1999. His girlfriend at the time acted as his translator until he could take English classes sponsored by the Senators and conducted in the Griffins’ conference room.

“He was obviously very quiet but a nice guy,” said Richards, who was Rachunek’s defensive partner for most of the year. “Before our first game, I remember asking what he wanted me to call him and he said, ‘a little bit.’ Obviously we didn’t talk a lot, but he was a nice, hardworking kid.”

Like Demitra, Rachunek demonstrated the kind of talent that earns a player a ticket to the NHL. He played 62 games with the Griffins during his only season in the IHL. “The writing was on the wall – he was going places,” Richards said.

Karel Rachunek

Rachunek spent five seasons in Ottawa before playing two years with the New York Rangers and one year with the New Jersey Devils. His NHL career saw him total 22 goals and 118 assists in 371 games.

“He had a really good skill set: he moved the puck well and had a great shot from the point,” Nelson said.

“His English wasn’t great, but he was always smiling.”

Fountain knew Rachunek not only from his year with the Griffins but also from playing at the same time in Russia. Rachunek played parts of six different seasons in Russia.

“He always had a big smile on his face,” Fountain said. “That never changed. Even in Russia, he’d be battling on the ice in front of the net and he would give me a wink. He was still Karel.”

Rachunek would frequently meet Fountain for dinner. “We’d meet in the lobby of the hotel and just chat and share Griffins stories,” he recalled. “Other times we’d meet for five minutes before boarding the team bus.

“Sometimes terrible things happen to good people and Karel was one of the good people.”

Liv was another player who was wellliked by everyone who knew him. Red Wings goaltender Jimmy Howard roomed with Liv on the road during their time with the Griffins.

They played together during the 2006-07 season, the only year that Liv played in North America and Howard’s second season in the pros.

Grand Rapids GRIFFINS 45

Stefan Liv

“We had a great partnership and it was a lot of fun being roommates on the road,” Howard said.

“He was a great guy – you couldn’t say anything bad about him whatsoever. He was taken way too soon.”

In memory of his friends Liv, McCrimmon and Salei, Howard changed the backplate of his goalie mask for the 2011-12 season into a tribute depicting images of the three over the words “Forever In Our Hearts!”

Paek remembers Liv as a tremendous competitor who was mature and professional – the perfect teammate.

“The way he prepared for games, you could see that he was a competitor,” Paek said. “He was intense and competed hard. He hated to lose. It’s such a tragedy. He was such a special talent.”

Liv was a member of the Swedish national team that won the goal medal in the 2006 Winter Olympics.

His former pro team in Sweden, HV-71, plans to honor him by retiring his number 1 jersey. The team’s current goalie, ex-Griffins netminder Daniel Larsson, agreed to switch his number so that it could be raised to the roof of the arena later this season.

“Liv was a great guy who just loved playing hockey,” recalls Griffins equipment manager Brad Thompson. “He was always in a happy mood. You had to pinch him to see if he needed something.”

Griffins goaltender Joey MacDonald remembers Liv backing him up one game in Detroit. “I spent a lot of training camps with him growing up because we were close to the same age. He was just a nice guy, really quiet. He had a great thing going in Sweden.”

The Griffins organization will honor their three former players with a memorial helmet sticker and jersey patch that will be worn by players throughout the 2011-12 season. Both the patch, which will be worn during all 38 home games, and the sticker display the words “Griffins Forever” above the jersey numbers worn by the players during their 46 Grand Rapids GRIFFINS

time in Grand Rapids. Demitra’s 38 is shown in blue, Rachunek’s 29 is depicted in gold to represent his one-time status as a Senators prospect, and Liv’s No. 1 is displayed in red to reflect his tenure during the Griffins’ affiliation with Detroit.

MacDonald spent most of last season in Detroit, so he knew McCrimmon and Salei as well. “Both of them were great guys,” he said. “I talked to both of them about playing in Russia. If I had known they were going, I would have signed there in a heartbeat.”

McCrimmon was a positive force on the bench.

“He’d never say anything bad about anybody,” MacDonald said. He was also quite the storyteller.

“He told stories from the time we took off until the time we landed,” Howard said. “He was like clockwork. As soon as we got to the right altitude, he would come to the back of the plane and tell stories the whole time and have all the guys roaring.”

As fellow coaches, Paek had developed a close relationship with McCrimmon. “I’d see him in training camp and we’d spend a lot of time together. We’d talk hockey and tell stories.

During the season, you make phone calls and share information. His death hit me hard.”

McCrimmon started his hockey career in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan, which was Nelson’s hometown. The pair crossed paths years later when both were coaching in the Atlanta Thrashers organization. “He knew my family,” Nelson said.

“I looked up to him and we kept in contact.”

Nelson said McCrimmon was a good resource who would do anything for anyone. “I talked to him in June and he was so excited to be a head coach,” he said. “It’s just a tragedy.”

The loss of Salei was a double whammy for the Red Wings organization. Paek used one of Salei’s sticks in practices by the Black Aces during the Stanley Cup playoffs.

“He didn’t really know me, but we had that little connection and he was always very respectful, would always say hello,” Paek said.

“He was a tremendous teammate and you can see that by how (Pavel) Datsyuk honored him by wearing his number during the preseason.

“When everything is said and done, I’d like someone to say I was a good teammate, too.

I think that’s the ultimate compliment.”

Paek’s wife, Kortney, is organizing local efforts to raise donations for all the Lokomotiv players’ families.

A “Love for Lokomotiv” prayer bracelet is being sold by wives and girlfriends from every team in every professional league, and Paek plans to sell a Livestrong-type bracelet for fans at Griffins games.

All proceeds will go directly to the Love for Lokomotiv charity. For more information, visit loveforlokomotiv.com.

FUN SHOULD BE

WEATHERPROOF An unbelievable family getaway is waiting for you at Great Wolf Lodge® indoor waterpark resort in Traverse City, MI. No matter what the weather is outside, the fun starts in our huge, 84-degree indoor waterpark. And that’s just the beginning. Be sure to grab a wand and battle a dragon in MagiQuest,® our live-action adventure game. Or indulge yourself in our adult or kid spas. Dine as a family in one of our Northwoods-inspired restaurants. And complete your day’s adventure by gathering in our Grand Lobby for our animated Clock Tower show and fireside Story Time.

Book online at greatwolf.com or call 231.941.3600 3575 N US Highway 31 S Traverse City, MI 49684

Integrity • Quality • Solutions WOLD GWTR Q6195

Bank of America Fun Should Be Weatherproof Griffiti Magazine 1:1

Live: Frame: Trim: Bleed:

None

Gutter in Spread:

None N/A 4.875” x 3.8125” None N/A

9-26-2011 4:31 PM

Pa

Art Director: Studio Op: Username: ProjectManager: Production: File Status: Art Status:

Ross Elliot Erwin Costello Neilson Layout Approved

Job

Resolution:

300 dpi

TraverseCity_GriffitiMag_4_875x3.8125_MG.indd 1-800-444-6430 • LOCAL • STATEWIDE

HOME & OFFICE RELOCATIONS

light fade_Mg.tif (...elliot.erwin:Desktop:Q6195:Q6195_TraverseCity_GriffitiMag_4_875x3.8125_MG www.powellrelocationgroup.com • NATIONWIDEFolder:Links:light • WORLDWIDE wood .tif), Great_Wolf_VA_Thurs._0786_Mg.tif (...:elliot.erwin:Desktop:Q6195:Q6195_TraverseCity_GriffitiMag_4_875x3.8125_ reat_Wolf_VA_Thurs._0786_Mg.tif), GRTWLF_Mason_Wed_1738_Mg.tif (...sers:elliot.erwin:Desktop:Q6195:Q6195_ itiMag_4_875x3.8125_MG Folder:Links:GRTWLF_Mason_Wed_1738_Mg.tif), Great Wolf Wed morning0923_Mg.tif ktop:Q6195:Q6195_TraverseCity_GriffitiMag_4_875x3.8125_MG Folder:Links:Great Wolf Wed morning0923_Mg.tif),

www.powellrelocationgroup.com

NSTRUCTIONS:

Grand Rapids GRIFFINS 47

Ink

Fo

Ad

(Through 2010-11)

GRIFFINS ALL-TIME LEADERS

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

GAMES PLAYED Travis Richards.............. 655 Michel Picard................. 364 Jamie Tardif.................... 316 Derek Meech.................. 304 Ryan Oulahen................. 302 Darryl Bootland............. 293 Matt Ellis......................... 282 Dave Van Drunen.......... 280 Derek King...................... 264 Evan McGrath................ 262

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

GOALS Michel Picard................. 158 Jamie Tardif.......................78 Kip Miller...........................75 Derek King.........................73 Darryl Bootland................72 Matt Ellis............................69 Jiri Hudler..........................65 Francis Pare.......................64 Tomas Kopecky.................63 Donald MacLean...............62

ASSISTS 1. Michel Picard................. 222 2. Travis Richards.............. 182 3. Kip Miller........................ 133 4. Derek King...................... 130 5. Jiri Hudler....................... 114 6. Glen Metropolit................88 7. Jeff Nelson..........................87 8. Matt Ellis............................84 9. Cory Emmerton................77 Francis Pare...................... 77

SINGLE SEASON TOP TEN POINTS 1. Michel Picard................101......................1996-97 2. Jiri Hudler........................96......................2005-06 3. Jeff Nelson........................89......................1996-97 4. Donald MacLean.............88......................2005-06 5. Michel Picard..................84......................2002-03 6. Derek King.....................*83......................2000-01 7. Mark Mowers..................81......................2002-03 Glen Metropolit..............81......................1998-99 9. Darren Haydar................80......................2008-09 10. Eric Manlow....................73......................2005-06

ASSISTS 1. Jiri Hudler........................60......................2005-06 2. Jeff Nelson........................55......................1996-97 Michel Picard..................55......................1996-97 4. Glen Metropolit..............53......................1998-99 5. Michel Picard..................52......................2002-03 6. Derek King.......................51......................2000-01 7. Valtteri Filppula..............50......................2005-06 8. Darren Haydar................49......................2008-09 9. Eric Manlow....................48......................2005-06 Stacy Roest.......................48......................2002-03

GOALS 1. Donald MacLean...........*56......................2005-06 2. Michel Picard..................46......................1996-97 3. Jiri Hudler........................36......................2005-06 4. Mark Mowers..................34......................2002-03 Jeff Nelson........................34......................1996-97 6. Slava Butsayev.................33......................2000-01 Michel Picard..................33......................1999-00 8. Jeremy Williams..............32......................2009-10 Tomas Kopecky...............32......................2005-06 Michel Picard..................32......................2002-03 Derek King.......................32......................2000-01 *Led League

PENALTY MINUTES 1. Darryl Bootland............390......................2005-06 2. Matt Ruchty...................364......................1996-97 3. Chris Neil.......................354......................2000-01 4. Wade Brookbank..........337......................2001-02 5. Darryl Bootland............336......................2004-05 6. Darcy Simon..................327......................1996-97 7. Peter Vandermeer.........310......................2004-05 Bruce Ramsay................310......................1997-98 9. Bruce Ramsay................306......................1996-97 10. Chris Neil.......................301......................1999-00

GRIFFINS’ ALL-TIME LEADERS IN GOALTENDING WINS

JOEY MacDONALD JIMMY HOWARD MIKE FOUNTAIN MARC LAMOTHE DANIEL LARSSON (98) (90) (55) (54) (45) 48 Grand Rapids GRIFFINS

Grand Rapids GRIFFINS 49 Grand Rapids GRIFFINS 49

TIME TESTED

AND TRUE

A growing number of NHL coaches paid their dues in the AHL.

Back during the 2004-05 season, Grand Cup photos of Bylsma, Sidney Crosby and Haven native Dan Bylsma was still learning the other Penguins to act as rude reminders. ropes behind the bench as an assistant coach The past two seasons have seen the Bylsmafor the AHL’s Cincinnati led Penguins record Mighty Ducks. back-to-back 100-point “I’m as excited about seasons, including last coaching as I was about year when he won the being a player 12 years Jacks Adams Award as ago,” Bylsma told Griffiti the NHL’s best coach. magazine. “This is my His deft handling of the second career. This is injury depleted Penguins what I want to do.”

– Pittsburgh finished 49He spent the following 25-8 last season despite season as an assistant coach the loss of both Crosby with the NHL’s New York and Evgeni Malkin – got Islanders before eventually him a three-year contract finding his way to the extension through the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton 2013-14 season.

Penguins, where he was And aspiring coaches an assistant before his all over the AHL smiled. promotion to head coach Bylsma was hardly for the 2008-09 season. the first AHL coach to Things were going just enjoy success in the NHL. dandy in the burgs of Only two years earlier, northeastern Pennsylvania Washington Capitals – the baby Pens had general manager George compiled a 35-16-1-2 record McPhee summoned Bruce under Bylsma’s direction Dan Bylsma started coaching in the AHL before Boudreau from the AHL – when the phone rang. on Thanksgiving Day. making the jump to the NHL. The parent Pittsburgh Like Bylsma would team was in 10th place and in danger do with the Penguins, Boudreau rallied the of missing the playoffs when Bylsma Capitals to win their division and was later was offered the opportunity to become honored with the Jack Adams Award. the interim head coach of the NHL team.

The AHL, which has been the primary Bylsma could have resigned himself to the development path for promising players for many idea that it was nothing more than a mop-up years, is now becoming the feeder system for future operation, but he took it as a challenge and NHL coaches. pushed his Penguins to overachieve.

Of the current 30 head coaches in the NHL, The Penguins rallied for a 18-3-4 record 13 of them were hired from the AHL without over their final 25 games that season, rising any prior experience as an NHL head coach. from 10th place to fourth in the conference Two others – Alain Vigneault of Vancouver and and eventually getting on a playoff run that Claude Noel of Winnipeg – held prior NHL head would take the team all the way to the finals coaching positions but showed an AHL head against the defending champion Red Wings. coaching job as their most recent.

Of course, Detroit fans don’t need to be Bylsma wasn’t the first coach to use the AHL’s told how all that finally turned out, and a Mighty Ducks as a launching pad for an NHL simple Google search will reveal enough opportunity.

50 Grand Rapids GRIFFINS

Red Wings head coach Mike Babcock spent two years (2000-02) with Cincinnati before he was promoted to Anaheim, where he took his team to the Stanley Cup Finals in his first year.

Babcock, who is entering his eighth season in Detroit, has a career record of 373-188-1976, including a Stanley Cup title in 2008.

Other successful NHL coaches who built their resumes in the AHL include: • Nashville’s Barry Trotz has steered the Predators into the playoffs six of the last seven years. The first and only head coach in the team’s history, Trotz was previously the head coach of the Washington Capitals’ AHL affiliate, the Baltimore Skipjacks, and later the Portland Pirates. Trotz led the Pirates to two Calder Cup Finals, winning the championship in 1994.

• Anaheim Ducks head coach Randy Carlyle spent six seasons coaching the Manitoba Moose, both in the IHL and AHL. He has compiled a record of 266172-61 during his half-dozen years with the Ducks, winning the 2007 Stanley Cup in his second season.

• Former Red Wings assistant coach Todd McLellan has compiled an impressive NHL coaching record of 104-38-22 in San Jose. Prior to the NHL, McLellan coached the Houston Aeros for four seasons. His pro coaching debut came in the IHL with the Cleveland Lumberjacks.

SAVOR...

Savor… Grand Rapids, the Food Service provider for the Van Andel Arena is teaming up with Fifth Third Bank in the operation of the Restaurant located on the lower level of the Arena. This new opportunity is for all patrons to enjoy the delicious food and atmosphere that the Fifth Third Bank Vault has to present.

Please join us in celebrating this partnership by cutting out the coupon in this ad. Be sure to make your reservations in advance as space is limited.

• More recently, Guy Boucher won the Tampa Bay head coaching job after leading the Hamilton Bulldogs to an impressive 52-17-11 record in 200910, despite having many of his best players being called up by the Montreal Canadiens. Boucher led Tampa to a 46-25-11 record a year ago.

• Scott Arniel was hired to be the bench boss in Columbus last year after he spent four years as the head coach of the AHL’s Manitoba Moose, then the top affiliate of the Vancouver Canucks.

The list may continue to expand, according to Columbus general manager Scott Howson.

“There’s still room for experienced coaches, and maybe the pendulum has swung a little bit and it’ll come back,” Howson told the Associated Press. “The league’s younger, and some of these younger coaches have had a lot of success coaching younger people.”

With the AHL sending players to the NHL, it’s only natural that their coaches should follow them. After all, who knows them better.

“When we made the change, it was an easy transition for us because he knew all the players,” McPhee said. “That may be why it’s become a trend in the league, because your minor league coach knows a lot of the young players that are in your organization.”

INVITES YOU TO DINE IN AT VAN ANDEL ARENA

`

SAVOR...

$2.00 off any regularly priced Menu Item with Purchase of a regularly priced item.

Not valid towards alcohol or other beverages.

Advance reservations required.

Call 616.742.6231 or e-mail 53BankVault@smggr.com Expires 4/9/12 Must present original coupon to server at time of order Not valid with other coupons or offers.

Grand Rapids GRIFFINS 51

52 Grand Rapids GRIFFINS

Grand Rapids GRIFFINS 53

C O M M U N I T Y

C R E A S E

Offseason? WHAT Offseason?

Once the skates are hung up for the last time each season, it’s time for the Griffins’ staff to kick back, relax and enjoy an uneventful summer, right? Not exactly. While our employees love to hit the beach as much as anyone in West Michigan, they stay engaged with our community throughout the warmer months, making dozens of appearances and supporting some tremendous programs and causes.

Photos (from top, counter-clockwise): Walker Bike Festival, Grand Cycling Classic, Habitat for Humanity Remodel, Kids’ Food Basket Lunch Packing, Fourth of July Parades, Lids at the Library, Griffins Youth Foundation Golf Classic

ts ns Team Even 2011-12 Griffi t the Team Banque

Club Meet Griffins Booster Oct. 25, 2011 ndraiser Pumping Gas Fu Nov. 15, 2011 on stations) (J & H Oil/Marath Circle)

erfest (Rosa Parks Great Skate Wint

12 20 2, -2 21 on . cti Jan b Silent Au iffins Booster Clu e Feb. 7, 2012 Gr

s Sled Hockey Gam ing W d Sle Griffins vs.

Feb. 28, 2012 (Griff’s IceHouse) uet

Club Awards Banq Griffins Booster March 27, 2012 d many

an ion on these visit For informmatunity events, please m other co griffinshockey.com.

54 Grand Rapids GRIFFINS

JOIN THE

GRIFFINS KIDS CLUB!

Membership for kids 12 and under includes: • Official Kids Club t-shirt • Free ticket to a Griffins game • Members-only Kids Club parties • Monthly newsletters and contests • And more!

For more information, visit the Griffins Kids Club Booth located at the top of the stairs near section 101, go to griffinshockey.com, or call (616) 774-4585 ext. 3047.

Avoid Checking (Account) Penalties At Community West Credit Union, our free checking accounts have: • No monthly service fee • Access to over 90 FREE local ATMs • Access to over 28,000 FREE nationwide ATMs • Plus a great 7%*rate!

Stop the penalties today and make the switch to CWCU!

www.CommunityWestCU.org 616.261.5657 Hudsonville • Kentwood • Wyoming

*APY=Annual Percentage Yield. Some restrictions apply. See any branch or our website for more information. Rate subject to change.

56 Grand Rapids GRIFFINS

Grand Rapids GRIFFINS 57

NHL AFFILIATIONS

Ottawa Senators 1999-2002, Detroit Red Wings 2002-Present

SEASON RECORDS (IHL 1996-2001, AHL 2001- Present) YEAR 1996-97 1997-98 1998-99 1999-00 2000-01 2001-02 2002-03 2003-04 2004-05 2005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09 2009-10 2010-11

GP 82 82 82 82 82 80 80 80 80 80 80 80 80 80 80

W 40 38 34 51 53 42 48 44 41 55 37 31 43 34 36

L 30 31 40 22 22 27 22 28 35 20 32 41 25 39 34

T OTL SOL PTS GF - - 12 92 244 - - 13 89 225 - - 8 76 256 - - 9 111 254 - 4 3 113 279 11 0 - 95 217 8 2 - 106 240 8 0 - 96 195 - 2 2 86 200 - 1 4 115 323 - 6 5 85 226 - 2 6 70 210 - 6 6 98 255 – 3 4 75 244 -- 2 8 82 227

GA 246 242 281 200 196 178 177 166 200 247 244 245 226 265 254

FINISH 10 of 19 11 of 18 15 of 16 2 of 13 1 of 11 4 of 27 2 of 27 5 of 28 17 of 28 1 of 27 17 of 27 25 of 29 8 of 29 26 of 29 23 of 30

GRIFFINS ALL-STARS 1996-97 Jeff Nelson, Michel Picard,

Pokey Reddick 1997-98 Ian Gordon, Kerry Huffman,

Michel Picard 1998-99 Robert Petrovicky, Maxim Spiridonov 1999-00 John Gruden, Jani Hurme, Kevin Miller,

Petr Schastlivy 2000-01 Mike Fountain, Joel Kwiatkowski,

Travis Richards, Todd White 2001-02 Chris Bala, John Gruden, Kip Miller,

Martin Prusek, Petr Schastlivy

Mike Fountain - 34 wins in 2000-01 Photo by John Grieshop

2002-03 Mark Mowers, Marc Lamothe 2003-04 Jiri Hudler, Niklas Kronwall,

Travis Richards, Nathan Robinson 2004-05 Niklas Kronwall, Joey MacDonald 2005-06

Valtteri Filppula, Jiri Hudler, Donald MacLean

2006-07

Kip Miller, Derek Meech

2007-08

Jonathan Ericsson, Jimmy Howard

2008-09

Jakub Kindl, Daniel Larsson

2009-10 Patrick Rissmiller 2010-11 Ilari Filppula, Brendan Smith

Joey MacDonald - 34 wins in 2004 Photo by Mark Newman

58 Grand Rapids GRIFFINS

-05

SEASON LEADERS

(* = Led League)

SCORING 1996-97 . . . . .

1997-98 . . . . .

1998-99 . . . . .

1999-00 . . . . .

2000-01 . . . . .

2001-02 . . . . .

2002-03 . . . . .

2003-04 . . . . .

2004-05 . . . . .

2005-06 . . . . .

2006-07 . . . . .

2007-08 . . . . .

2008-09 . . . . .

2009-10 . . . . .

2010-11 . . . . .

Michel Picard............................101 points Michel Picard............................. 69 points Glen Metropolit......................... 81 points Michel Picard............................. 68 points Derek King...............................83 points* Kip Miller.................................. 56 points Michel Picard............................. 84 points Michel Picard............................. 54 points Niklas Kronwall.......................... 53 points Jiri Hudler................................. 96 points Kip Miller.................................. 72 points Carl Corazzini............................. 60 points Darren Haydar........................... 80 points Jeremy Williams......................... 63 points Ilari Filppula ............................. 64 points

GOALS 1996-97 . . . . .

1997-98 . . . . .

1998-99 . . . . .

1999-00 . . . . .

2000-01 . . . . .

2001-02 . . . . .

2002-03 . . . . .

2003-04 . . . . .

2004-05 . . . . .

2005-06 . . . . .

2006-07 . . . . .

2007-08 . . . . .

2008-09 . . . . .

2009-10 . . . . .

2010-11 . . . . .

Michel Picard....................................... 46 Michel Picard....................................... 28 Glen Metropolit................................... 28 Michel Picard....................................... 33 Slava Butsayev.................................... 33 Petr Schastlivy..................................... 22 Mark Mowers....................................... 34 Kevin Miller......................................... 27 Eric Manlow......................................... 21 Donald MacLean..................................56* Matt Ellis............................................. 26 Carl Corazzini....................................... 24 Darren Haydar..................................... 31 Jeremy Williams................................... 32 Jamie Tardif........................................ 27

PENALTY MINUTES 1996-97 . . . . . Matt Ruchty....................................... 364 1997-98 . . . . . Bruce Ramsay.................................... 310 1998-99 . . . . . Jared Bednar..................................... 220 1999-00 . . . . . Chris Neil........................................... 301 2000-01 . . . . . Chris Neil........................................... 354 2001-02 . . . . . Wade Brookbank................................ 337 2002-03 . . . . . Ryan Barnes...................................... 151 2003-04 . . . . . Ryan Barnes, Darryl Bootland............. 175 2004-05 . . . . . Darryl Bootland................................. 336 2005-06 . . . . . Darryl Bootland................................. 390 2006-07 . . . . . Darryl Bootland................................. 222 2007-08 . . . . . Kyle Quincey...................................... 149 2008-09 . . . . . Aaron Downey................................... 126 2009-10 . . . . . Paul Crosty........................................ 170 2010-11 . . . . . Greg Amadio...................................... 230 GOALTENDING WINS 1996-97 . . . . . Pokey Reddick.......................... (30-14-10) 1997-98 . . . . . Ian Gordon.................................(23-16-4) 1998-99 . . . . . Neil Little...................................(18-21-5) 1999-00 . . . . . Jani Hurme.................................(29-15-4) 2000-01 . . . . . Mike Fountain.......................... (34-10-6)* 2001-02 . . . . . Martin Prusek...............................(18-8-5) 2002-03 . . . . . Marc Lamothe........................... (33-18-8)* 2003-04 . . . . . Joey MacDonald..........................(22-12-3) 2004-05 . . . . . Joey MacDonald..........................(34-29-2) 2005-06 . . . . . Jimmy Howard..............................(27-6-2) 2006-07 . . . . . Jimmy Howard............................(21-21-3) 2007-08 . . . . . Jimmy Howard............................(21-28-2) 2008-09 . . . . . Daniel Larsson............................(22-12-2) 2009-10 . . . . . Daniel Larsson ............................(23-24-2) 2010-11 . . . . . Jordan Pearce.............................(20-15-5)

Michel Picard - 101 points in 1996

-97

Photo by Mark Newman

-06

Donald MacLean - 56 goals in 2005 Photo by Mark Newman

Darryl Bootland - 390 penalty minu Photo by Mark Newman

tes in 2005-06

Grand Rapids GRIFFINS 59

VISIT PHPA.COM Your source for PHPA news, officially licensed collectors items, and PHPA merchandise.

PROUD TO REPRESENT PLAYERS IN THE AHL, CHL, AND ECHL

62 Grand Rapids GRIFFINS

One of Michigan’s premier golf destinations. “ - Places to Play” “One of the 25 best golf courses in Michigan” -GOLF DIGEST

Our beautiful Rees Jones signature course is designed to provide a challenging test of golf, while accommodating golfers of all skill levels.

Just minutes from downtown Grand Rapids, see for yourself why this stunning jewel has been rated one of the best golf courses around.

www.togc.net

4100 Thousand Oaks Drive, Grand Rapids | East Beltline and 5 Mile - go East one mile | 616.447.7750

Casual and inviting surroundings.

Diverse menu. Breathtaking views.

Thousand Oaks is a name synonymous with attention to detail, sumptuous dining and unblemished nature. Once reserved for small parties and business meetings, Thousand Oaks now presents Grand Oaks Banquet and Meeting Facility to accommodate gatherings of all sizes. Nestled into a private, 425-acre setting, yet just minutes from Downtown Grand Rapids, Grand Oaks Banquet Facility offers a refreshing alternative for meetings, receptions, and private parties. From the intimate setting of the Birch Room that seats 60 Guests, the expanse of the Grand Oaks Hall that accommodates up to 350 persons, Grand Oaks Banquet Facility can meet most reception needs in style. Our high performance facility, with its pre-function area, offers a flawless setting for professional meetings and personal events. With a full line of projection screens, audio/visual equipment, stage and wireless business center, Grand Oaks is versatile, reliable, and priced ala-carte to most budgets.

Year-round Golf Lessons.

Join the Academy!

Call 616-363-GOLF

More than a great place to visit–it’s a great place to live.

Grand Rapids GRIFFINS 63 Call 616-828-6780

VAN ANDEL ARENA

TICKETS VIP Glass

$32

DAY OF GAME $34

Lower Level Preferred

$26

$28

Lower Level Center Ice

$22

$24

Lower Level Faceoff

$18

$20

VIP Edge

$18

$20

Upper Level Preferred

$16

$18

Upper Level

$14

$16

ADVANCE

Suites & Hospitality Areas Call for pricing and availability

Located at West Michigan Meijer stores, www.startickets.com or 616.222.4000 THE ZONE Located on the West side of Van Andel Arena ONLINE griffinshockey.com Seats may not be available in all price categories.

For season, game-plan and group ticket information, call 616.774.4585 or 1.800.2.HOCKEY.

Grand Rapids Griffins

Toronto Marlies

Adirondack Phantoms

Milwaukee Admirals

Manchester Monarchs

Binghamton Senators

St. John’s IceCaps

Albany Devils

BRITISH COLUMBIA ALBERTA

Rockford IceHogs

SASKATCHEWAN

MANITOBA

Abbotsford

St. John’s

ONTARIO NEWFOUNDLAND

Portland Pirates

Portland

Toronto

Abbotsford Heat

Glens Falls Rochester

Syracuse

Hamilton

Worcester

Worcester Sharks

Bridgeport

Binghamton

Grand Rapids

Manchester

Springfield

Wilkes-Barre Rockford

Cleveland Hershey

Peoria

Chicago Wolves Charlotte

Oklahoma City

Peoria Rivermen Lake Erie Monsters Cedar Park

Connecticut Whale

San Antonio

Charlotte Checkers

Oklahoma City Barons

64 Grand Rapids GRIFFINS

San Antonio Rampage

Texas Stars

Houston Aeros

Bridgeport Sound Tigers

DOWNTOWN at your doorstep 85% sold and rising! call

616.726.2900 to schedule a tour

grriverhouse.com Grand Rapids GRIFFINS 65

Keep your team healthy.

At Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, we believe that being physically active and eating right are vital to a long, healthy life — especially for your family. It’s why we fund programs that encourage families and educate kids to eat right, stay fit and make smart choices about health.

And why we offer so many different health plans. Choices that allow you to get exactly the right coverage for you and your family.

bcbsm.com

Leading Michigan to a healthier future.

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Blue Care Network are nonprofit corporations and independent licensees of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.

SM

No Annual Contract

Android

™

Unlimited talk, text, web and email.

Keep y current pour number whone you switchen to MetroP h CS!

Find us on Facebook at MetroPCS

Metro USA The lowest price of any nationwide network.

SM

PRESENT aNd RECEiVE

Follow us on Twitter @MetroPCSMI

20% OFF aNY aCCESSORY

877-BUY-MPCS

GRIFFALL

While supplies last.

New activation or new phone purchase required. Value up to $20. Cannot be combined with any other offers. Only at participating listed location(s).

Expires 12/31/2011.

metropcs.com

MetroPCS Corporate Retail Store Grand Rapids • 4545 28th St. • 49512 Visit metropcs.com or a MetroPCS store for information on specific Terms and Conditions of Service, coverage areas, handset capabilities and any applicable restrictions. Rates, services and features subject to change.

Nationwide long distance available only to continental U.S. and Puerto Rico. Nationwide coverage and services not available everywhere. MetroPCS-related trademarks, service marks, and other intellectual property are the exclusive properties of MetroPCS Wireless, Inc. All other marks are the properties of their respective owners. ©2011, MetroPCS Wireless, Inc.

IT ALL STARTS HERE Detroit Niklas Kronwall, 2008

Since their inception in 1996, the Griffins have sent 117 players to the National Hockey League, 14 of whom have gone on to win the Stanley Cup. In fact, a Griffins alumnus has had his name engraved on the Cup each of the last four years and in six of the last seven seasons, with Boston’s Chris Kelly earning the honor last June.

In chronological order, here are the 17 goalies and 100 skaters who have donned an NHL sweater after playing for Grand Rapids, along with the dates of their NHL debuts/returns.

Kevyn Adams, 2006 Carolina

Tomas Kopecky, 2010 Chicago

68 Grand Rapids GRIFFINS 68 Chris GrandKelly, Rapids2011 GRIFFINS Boston

Mark Eaton, 2009 Pittsburgh

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

Pavol Demitra 3/17/97 STL at PHX Kevyn Adams 10/1/97 TOR vs. WSH Tyler Moss 10/28/97 CGY vs. PIT Michel Picard 1/6/98 STL at SJ Jeff Nelson 10/10/98 NSH vs. FLA Patrick Traverse 10/10/98 OTT at COL Mark Greig 1/7/99 PHI vs. NYI Radim Bicanek 2/1/99 OTT at VAN Robert Petrovicky 2/15/99 TB at NYI Andrei Vasilyev 3/5/99 PHX vs. DET Todd Hlushko 4/25/99 PIT vs. NJ Patrick Lalime 10/2/99 OTT at PHI Glen Metropolit 10/2/99 WSH at FLA Kevin Miller 10/31/99 OTT at ATL Karel Rachunek 10/31/99 OTT at ATL Erich Goldmann 11/11/99 OTT vs. NSH Yves Sarault 11/20/99 OTT at NJ John Gruden 11/30/99 OTT vs. CHI Mike Fountain 12/3/99 OTT at NJ Dave Van Drunen 12/13/99 OTT at TOR Petr Schastlivy 1/3/00 OTT vs. NJ John Emmons 1/6/00 OTT vs. PHX Slava Butsayev 1/28/00 OTT at BUF Aris Brimanis 2/13/00 NYI at NYR Dieter Kochan 3/28/00 TB vs. DAL Jani Hurme 4/9/00 OTT vs. TB Shane Hnidy 10/5/00 OTT at BOS Donald MacLean 10/14/00 TOR vs. OTT David Oliver 11/4/00 OTT vs. CBJ Jamie Rivers 11/12/00 OTT at CAR

31

32

33

34

35

36

37

38

39

40

41

42

43

44

45

46

47

48

49

50

51

52

53

54

55

56

57

58

59

60

Sean Gagnon 11/26/00 OTT at NYR Joel Bouchard 11/29/00 PHX at COL Mike Crowley 12/8/00 ANA at MIN Ivan Ciernik 1/23/01 OTT at NYI Darren Rumble 2/6/01 STL at COL Joel Kwiatkowski 2/19/01 OTT at BUF Todd White 2/19/01 OTT at BUF Chris Neil 10/3/01 OTT at TOR Toni Dahlman 1/3/02 OTT vs. WSH Steve Martins 1/11/02 OTT at FLA Kip Miller 1/17/02 NYI at SJ Jody Hull 2/4/02 OTT at TB Dmitry Afanasenkov 2/6/02 TB at FLA Simon Lajeunesse 3/7/02 OTT at SJ Martin Prusek 3/23/02 OTT vs. ATL Chris Bala 3/27/02 OTT at NYI Neil Little 3/28/02 PHI at CAR Josh Langfeld 3/30/02 OTT vs. TB Gaetan Royer 4/1/02 TB vs. NYR Jason Spezza 10/24/02 OTT at BOS Sean Avery 10/29/02 DET vs. SJ Jason Doig 12/3/02 WSH at PIT Jason Williams 12/5/02 DET at PHX Patrick Boileau 12/19/02 DET vs. DAL Stacy Roest 2/20/03 DET vs. EDM Wade Brookbank 10/9/03 NSH vs. ANA Julien Vauclair 10/25/03 OTT at MTL Jiri Hudler 10/29/03 DET vs. STL Curtis Joseph 10/30/03 DET at NSH Darryl Bootland 11/8/03 DET vs. NSH

61

62

63

64

65

66

67

68

69

70

71

72

73

74

75

76

77

78

79

80

81

82

83

84

85

86

87

88

89

90

91

Mark Mowers 11/19/03 DET vs. CBJ Nathan Robinson 11/28/03 DET vs. NYI Blake Sloan 12/4/03 DAL at LA Niklas Kronwall 12/10/03 DET at BUF Ryan Barnes 12/15/03 DET vs. FLA Chris Kelly 2/5/04 OTT vs. TOR Marc Lamothe 2/23/04 DET at EDM Anders Myrvold 2/26/04 DET at CGY Mathieu Chouinard 2/29/04 LA at ANA Brett Lebda 10/5/05 DET vs. STL Mark Eaton 10/5/05 NSH vs. SJ Chris Osgood 10/29/05 DET at CHI Kyle Quincey 11/25/05 DET at ANA Jimmy Howard 11/28/05 DET at LA Valtteri Filppula 12/15/05 DET at FLA Rob Collins 12/17/05 NYI vs. COL Manny Legace 1/5/06 DET vs. STL David Gove 1/31/06 CAR at MTL Tomas Kopecky 2/28/06 DET at SJ Alexandre Giroux 3/25/06 NYR at TB Joey MacDonald 10/19/06 DET at SJ Derek Meech 12/7/06 DET vs. STL Matt Ellis 12/18/06 DET at CBJ Matt Hussey 1/26/07 DET at STL Sheldon Brookbank 2/6/07 NSH at PIT Danny Syvret 2/27/07 EDM vs. PHX Mark Hartigan 11/29/07 DET vs. TB Drew MacIntyre 12/13/07 VAN at SJ Peter Vandermeer 2/10/08 PHX vs. NSH Jonathan Ericsson 2/22/08 DET at CGY Garrett Stafford 2/23/08 DET at VAN

92 Darren Helm

3/13/08 DET vs. DAL 93 Mattias Ritola

3/15/08 DET vs. NSH 94 Clay Wilson

3/25/08 CBJ at NSH 95 Darren McCarty

3/28/08 DET vs. STL 96 Krys Kolanos

11/4/08 MIN at SJ 97 Landon Wilson

11/22/08 DAL vs. ANA 98 Bryan Helmer

11/28/08 WSH vs. MTL 99 Chris Chelios

12/13/08 DET at PHX 100 Aaron Downey

1/29/09 DET vs. DAL 101 Justin Abdelkader

1/31/09 DET at WSH 102 Ville Leino 1/31/09 DET at WSH 103 Aaron Gagnon 10/16/09 DAL vs. BOS 104 Scott Parse 10/24/09 LA at PHX 105 Doug Janik 11/3/09 DET vs. BOS 106 Ryan Keller 11/25/09 OTT at NJ 107 Jakub Kindl 12/3/09 DET vs. EDM 108 Kris Newbury 12/14/09 DET vs. PHX 109 Darren Haydar 2/10/10 COL vs. ATL 110 Andreas Lilja 3/1/10 DET at COL 111 Jeremy Williams

10/24/10 NYR vs. NJ 112 Jan Mursak 12/27/10 DET at COL 113 Chris Mueller

12/28/10 NSH vs. DAL 114 Tomas Tatar

12/31/10 DET vs. NYI 115 Cory Emmerton

1/22/11 DET vs. CHI 116 Patrick Rissmiller

2/23/11 ATL at BUF 117 Tom McCollum 3/30/11 DET vs. STL Bold = Played in the NHL during the 2010-11 season.

Italics = Had name engraved on the

Stanley Cup after playing for

Grand Rapids

All photos by Getty Images except Niklas Kronwall (Dave Reginek).

Grand Rapids GRIFFINS 69 Grand Rapids GRIFFINS 69

Whether the Griffins are at Van Andel Arena or on the road, ESPN 96.1 FM will bring it home, live with Bob Kaser Brought to you by the home for Griffins Hockey:

70 Grand Rapids GRIFFINS

KIDS PAGE MEATBALL MARCHES (= AHL Team Scramble) Unscramble the goofy words to form the location of an AHL team. Good luck!

10. Rochester 11. Houston 12. Syracuse 13. Portland 14. Connecticut 15. Springfield 16. Hamilton 17. Peoria 18. Providence 19. Lake Erie

* Excludes Chicago, Norfolk and St. John’s

20. Grand Rapids 21. Rockford 22. Worcester 23. San Antonio 24. Binghamton 25. Abbotsford 26. Milwaukee 27. Texas

BARACK WINS OR RELENTS

HA! ATOMIC YOLK

AX SET

INT

RAND PLOT

NOSH OUT

SATAN ONION

HALO M

Join the Griffins Kids Club!

Turn to page 56 for membership information.

TEAMS* Abbotsford Adirondack Albany Binghamton Bridgeport Charlotte Connecticut Grand Rapids Hamilton Hershey Houston Lake Erie Manchester Milwaukee Oklahoma City Peoria Portland Providence Rochester Rockford San Antonio Springfield Syracuse Texas Toronto Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Worcester ANSWERS 1. Manchester 2. Adirondack 3. Oklahoma City 4. Charlotte 5. Hershey 6. Albany 7. Wilkes-Barre/ Scranton 8. Bridgeport 9. Toronto

ANAGRAMS 1. Me Crash Net 2. Candid Okra 3. Ha! Atomic Yolk 4. Heart Clot 5. Shy Here 6. Any Lab 7. Barack Wins or Relents 8. Debtor Grip 9. Root Not 10. Cheer Sort 11. Nosh Out 12. Scary Use 13. Rand Plot 14. Cut Cent Coin 15. Spider Fling 16. Halo Mint 17. Ape or I 18. Endive Crop 19. A Lie Reek 20. Par! Dad Grins 21. Cord Fork 22. Wet Scorer 23. Satan Onion 24. Naming Both 25. Bad Oft Robs 26. Weak Ileum 27. Ax Set

PAR! DAD GRINS

Grand Rapids GRIFFINS 71

PARTING SHOT

Sean Wright, Griffins vice president of corporate sales, scores an unlikely shot, knocking the ball into the upper right corner of the net during the 17th annual Griffins Youth Foundation Golf Classic at Egypt Valley Country Club on Aug. 29.

Photo by Mark Newman

72 Grand Rapids GRIFFINS