MiHockeyMag - June 18th, 2012

MiHockeyNow.com

V.22 : I.22 | June 18, 2012

FIRST CLASS

SO LONG, NICK

RED WINGS CAPTAIN LEAVES BEHIND A LEGACY IN MICHIGAN

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

JUNE 18, 2012 VOLUME 22: ISSUE 22

6 THE LOCKER ROOM Talking hockey on Facebook and Twitter

8 SLIDESHOW Lidstrom, Cleary, Horcoff greet fans in Warren

10 SPEAKING OF HOCKEY Who should the next Red Wings’ captain be?

12 GET BETTER 3-on-0 passing drill

14 YOU SHOULD KNOW Victory Honda’s Tony Calderone

16 YOUTH HOCKEY Compuware names new director

18 HOMETOWN HERO Stanley Cup champions Matt Greene and Alec Martinez

26-27

NICK LIDSTROM The Red Wings captain might be going home, but the impact he had on hockey in Michigan will never be forgotten

24 JUNIORS Loads of Michigan talent in NAHL, USHL drafts

30 GRAND RAPIDS GRIFFINS Counting down the days until July 1

28

PLYMOUTH WHALERS

Florida native brings grit, energy to the Whalers’ line-up

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RED WINGS INSIDER

Wings GM Ken Holland is facing the perfect storm this summer

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LOOK FOR OUR NEXT ISSUE LAST LINE

Darren Eliot shares his thoughts on Ilya Kovalchuk and Dustin Brown

MiHockeyNow.com

JULY 2, 2012

To advertise in MiHockey please contact Lucia Zuzga at (248) 479-1134 or lucia@mihockeynow.com, or Michael Caples at (248) 479-1136 or mcaples@mihockeynow.com

June 18, 2012 V.22 : I.22

FROM THE EDITOR MIHOCKEYMAG EDITOR Michael Caples

mcaples@mihockeynow.com

ADVERTISING Lucia Zuzga

lucia@mihockeynow.com

DESIGN Emily Huston Chuck Stevens MIHOCKEY STAFF Ben Fleck Brian Kalisher Stefan Kubus Ryan Zuke DISTRIBUTION Lucia Zuzga ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTORS Amy Jones Anne Ellis DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS & PROGRAMMING Darren Eliot

EDITORIAL BOARD: Bob DeSpirt, Christine Knight, Derek Blair, James Jenkins, Julie Pardoski, Kirk Vickers, Linda Holland, Lisa Zarzycki, Mark Vansaw, Nyron Fauconier, Randy Paquette, Rob Mattina, Susan Bottrell, Tim Wilson, Todd Krygier LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: MICHIGAN HOCKEY® welcomes Letters to the Editor.

E-mail mcaples@mihockeynow.com

MICHIGAN HOCKEY is published by SUBURBAN SPORTS COMMUNICATIONS, LLC 23995 Freeway Park Drive, Suite 200, Farmington Hills, MI 483352829.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to MICHIGAN HOCKEY®, 23995 Freeway Park Drive, Suite 200, Farmington Hills, MI 48335-2829. ©2011

by Suburban Sports Communications. All Rights Reserved. The opinions and views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of MICHIGAN HOCKEY or its advertisers. All editorial copy, photographs and advertising materials remain the property of MICHIGAN HOCKEY.

@michaelcaples

BY MICHAEL CAPLES What do you mean it’s summer?

According to the calendar, it’s June, closing in on July.

Yet around the MiHockey offices, we’re as busy as ever.

The following 30-something pages represent just a portion of the hockey-related activities we’ve been covering this summer. I hope you are keeping an eye on MiHockeyNow.com and our social media platforms, because we’re posting new content each and every day.

Let MiHockeyNow.com be your source for hockey news this off-season, because really, there isn’t an off-season.

Plenty of the features in this latest issue of MiHockeyMag pertain to everyone’s favorite No. 5. Clearly I don’t need to tell you why Nick Lidstrom is on the cover. I will tell you, however, that we’ve let you dictate some of the coverage of the retirement announcement. We’re sharing some of the tweets and Facebook posts you sent us about Lidstrom, and giving our own take on how important he has been to hockey in our state at the same time.

On a personal note, the Red Wings’ locker room won’t

ever be the same. Lidstrom was everything a member of the media could ask for. He was helpful, always available, and never said no to an interview. As I learned how to interact with athletes on a professional level, No. 5 was a tremendous help, and believe it or not, a calming influence for a young journalist. I wish him all the best in retirement.

I’m looking forward to seeing what happens with the Red Wings this summer. It certainly won’t be an off-season like we have seen in years past. Change is something that we’re not used to around here – not for the Red Wings, at least.

And a Happy Father’s Day to all the dads out there, especially MiHockey’s Darren Eliot and Chuck Stevens, and my own dad. Thanks for all the rides to the rink, dad.

Wouldn’t be here without you.

See you at a rink soon,

MICHIGAN HOCKEY 23995 Freeway Park Drive • Suite 200 Farmington Hills, MI 48335-2829 (248) 478-2500 • FAX: (248) 478-1601 E-MAIL: mcaples@mihockeynow.com WEBSITE: mihockeynow.com PHOTOS AT LEFT: Nicklas Lidstrom (Tom Turrill/ MiHockey), Cody Payne (Rena Laverty/Plymouth Whalers), Henrik Zetterberg (Tom Turrill/MiHockey) COVER: Photo by Dave Reginek/DRW

Cover reprints available e-mail: mcaples@mihockeynow.com

June 18, 2012 V.22 : I.22

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THE LOCKER ROOM

THE

LOCKERROOM

LOCKER ROOM POLLS

TWO FOR TWEETING

June 5, we asked on Twitter which hockey Q: On movie they would recommend watching later that night. We were kind of surprised with the answers:

A: 44% Mystery Alaska ska 28% Goon 11% Miracle Others receiving votes – Slap Shot, The Mighty Ducks and Youngblood.

latest ‘Speaking of Hockey’ question asked Q: Our our Facebook friends who the next Red Wings

On June 7, we posted this photo on Twitter to celebrate the fact that 15 years ago to the day, the Red Wings won their first Stanley Cup in 42 years.

captain should be. You can see some of the answers on Page 10, but here’s a look at the numbers:

A: 86% Henrik Zetterberg 7% Niklas Kronwall 7% Valtteri Filppula

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Say nice things about us on Twitter, and you might find yourself in our magazine.

Thanks for all the support, everyone!

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June 18, 2012 V.22 : I.22

2012 WILL FEATURE OUR MOST AGGRESSIVE SALE PRICES EVER! 100% OF OUR GOALIE & PLAYER EQUIPMENT IS ON SALE!

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OPEN AT 10 AM ON SUNDAY TO BETTER SERVE YOU!

MARQUETTE, MI 1212 North 3rd Street Marquette, MI 49855 (906) 273-1700

GRAND RAPIDS, MI 2661 29th Street Grand Rapids, MI 49546 (616) 975-3700

JOIN OUR MAILING LIST FOR A CHANCE TO WIN A PERANI'S HOCKEY WORLD GIFT CERTIFICATE!

MANUFACTURER'S REPRESENTATIVES ON-HAND FOR ADVICE AND FITTING TIPS!

Greater East Vice President Brandon Spedowski 989-486-1511 (h) 231-250-7031 (c) email: brandon.spedowski@gmail.com

Girls House Vice President Dina Howe 989-429-2653 (c) 989-435-7080 (w) email: dhowe@howeracing.com

Metro Vice President Bobby Mitchell 248-302-0913 email: Bmitchell8@yahoo.com

Greater West Vice President Kevin Wood 616-560-6503 email: kwoodadraywest@yahoo.com

Treasurer Joe Spedowski 231-796-2565 email: nancyjoe@netonecom.net

June 18, 2012 V.22 : I.22

adrayhockey.org President Jeff Spedowski 231-796-0728 (h) 231-629-0435 (c) email: jspedows@charter.net

MiHockeyNow.com

Database Specialist Vice President Steve Miller 616-250-1458 email: me@stevenmiller.info

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SLIDESHOW

MICHIGAN HOCKEY IN PICTURES: WARRIOR AUTOGRAPH SIGNINGS

On May 18, Nick Lidstrom stopped by Warrior’s headquarters in Warren for what would be his final autograph session before announcing his retirement.

The next day, Red Wings forward Dan Cleary and Edmonton Oilers forward Shawn Horcoff took their turns greeting fans from across the state.

(Lidstrom photos by Ben Fleck/MiHockey, Cleary and Horcoff photo courtesy of Warrior Hockey)

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2012 FALL TRYOUTS Let the hockey world know when your tryouts are by joining Michigan’s top youth hockey publication.

Reach more players and parents with our media outlets: MiHockeyMag distributed to over 100 locations MiHockeyMag digital issue sent to over 18,000 subscribers MiHockeyNow.com 70,000+ views per month

TRYOUT ISSUES JULY 2 Tryout info due June 19

JULY 16 Tryout info due July 3

AUGUST 13 Tryout info due July 31 All packages include a free online ad through duration of your tryout package - single issue ads are online until the next issue is posted.

Call Lucia at 248-479-1134 or email her at lucia@mihockeynow.com to help spread the word about your team’s tryouts.

SPEAKING OF HOCKEY

With Nick Lidstrom announcing his retirement, we asked…

“Who should be the next captain of the Red Wings?”

For each issue of the magazine, we will post a question on Facebook, and one randomly selected answer will win a Warrior prize pack: hoodie, hat, and T-shirt. Good luck!

Henrik Zetterberg, good player with good leadership skills. Drew S M Palmer Kronwall... Myron D. Molotky Henrik Zetterberg, he’s been groomed to be the next to wear the C and is the most natural leader on and off the ice that the Wings have now. Nick Barnowski Valtteri Filppula Tyler Baum Zetterberg. Kronwall should be alternative. He looks like he has potential to be a leader someday. Norwood Kubisiak Why is the Captain never the goalie??? He’s on the ice all the time and is instrumental in wins/losses. Maybe cause they’re crazy...? Scott Thomas Hank, it’s obvious that he’s been working with the younger players and towards the end of the season he was getting more assists than goals. They’re both worth a point so he was involved with the play! Sheri VanDamme Aquisto

WINNER

Zetterberg as a good leader on and off the ice!! Christopher Sorel

Zetterberg. He leads the team on and off the ice and knows what he is doing. He is a good player who rarely draws penalties and also rarely loses his temper. When Zetty plays, he leaves it all on the ice and worries more about the team than he does himself. — Tori Wadkins

Visit our Facebook page to try and win our next Warrior prize pack, facebook.com/mihockeynow 10

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June 18, 2012 V.22 : I.22

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DRILL OBJECTIVE: Passing warm-up, multiple KEY ELEMENTS: • Passing/Receiving • Puck support • Timing • Skating • Positioning with Good Support/Target

ORGANIZATION: Players at both ends in three lines.

Three players leave from one end passing the puck and following their passes up the ice. They pass to the ďŹ rst in line at the other end and regroup, passing and weaving up the ice as they return to their own end. Once passing at the other end, the next three players begin their trip up ice.

GOALIE: Warm up with one coach at one end.

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June 18, 2012 V.22 : I.22

Hockey Player Age Hometown Height Weight Team Position Coach School Grade Favorite Team Favorite Player

Teodoro Vecchio

Hockey Player Age Hometown Height Weight Team Position Coach School

Christie Huebner

12 Grand Rapids 5' 2" 110 lbs EGRAHA Wing Dan Dillon EGR Middle School 7th Chicago Blackhawks Patrick Kane

14 Waterford 5'6" 110 lbs U14 Rochester Rattlers Forward Jeff Johnson Waterford Our Lady of the Lakes Grade 9th Favorite Team Detroit Red Wings Favorite Player Patrick Eaves

Make your player a "Star of Tomorrow" Every player appearing on Reebok's Stars of Tomorrow will win a new Reebok hockey stick!

Go to MiHockeyNow.com and fill out the form on the 'Stars of Tomorrow' page.

We will contact you about a photo to appear in the paper.

"STARS OF TOMORROW" c/o Michigan Hockey 'SFFXBZ 1BSL %SJWF t 4VJUF Farmington Hills, MI 48335-2829 mh@mihockeynow.com

June 18, 2012 V.22 : I.22

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YOU SHOULD KNOW

you should know FAVORITE SPORTING EVENT: Stanley Cup playoffs

FAVORITE BREAKFAST FOOD: Bacon and eggs

FIRST CONCERT: Nickelback

FAVORITE MOVIE: Dumb and Dumber

WHAT IS YOUR NICKNAME: Caldi

IF YOU WERE GIVEN $1 MILLION, WHAT WOULD YOU DO WITH IT: Buy a Lamborghini

IF YOU COULD HAVE ONE WISH GRANTED WHAT WOULD IT BE: Play in the NHL

FAVORITE CHILDHOOD MEMORY: Going to the Brick tournament in Edmonton

THREE PEOPLE YOU WOULD WANT TO HAVE DINNER WITH: Paul Bissonnette, Brad Pung, and Steven Stamkos

IF YOU COULD HAVE ANY SUPER POWER, WHAT WOULD IT BE: Super Strength

ONE PIECE OF TECHNOLOGY YOU CANNOT LIVE WITHOUT: My iPhone

WHO WAS MOST INFLUENTIAL ON YOUR HOCKEY CAREER: My family and my trainer Matt Romaniski

Tony Calderone

Victory Honda Midget Major forward Victory Honda Midget Major forward Tony Calderone was selected first overall in the USHL Draft by the Sioux Falls Stampede in late May, leading a strong crop of Michigan-born forwards. In 40 games this past season, the Trenton native led the Tier 1 league in both goals and points, lighting the lamp 38 times, while adding 27 assists for a total of 65 points. In addition, he tallied seven goals and 12 points in seven games during the playoffs. This is just another big step in Calderone’s hockey journey. The 6-foot, 185-pound forward is already committed to Princeton University for the fall of 2014.

Photos courtesy of: stanleycupwinners.net (Stanley Cup), blogs.sfweekly.com (Nickelback), imdb.com (Dumb and Dumber), atomicthinktank.com (Mr. Incredible), macworld.com (iPhone).

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Michigan Amateur Hockey Association EXHIBITORS TABLES ANNUAL SUMMERMEETING MEETING JULY7, 138,–9,15, 2012 JULY 2006

KEWADIN CASINO, HOTEL & CONVENTION CENTER

BOYNE HIGHLANDS Harbor Springs, Michigan

IN SAULT STE. MARIE, MICHIGAN

EXHIBITORS TABLES We are in the process of planning our Summer Meeting to be held on July 13, 14, 15, 2012 at Kewadin Casino, Hotel & Convention Center, 2186 Skunk Road, Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783. We will be having exhibitors tables set up during this time. The cost of a table is $75.00 and is limited to 20 tables.

FUNDAMENTAL

GOALTENDING SCHOOL 2 HOUR CLASS STRUCTURE WITH 4:1 STUDENT/INSTRUCTOR RATIO MOBILITY FOCUS: 0RYHPHQW LQ 6WDQFH ‡ *HWWLQJ LQ 3RVLWLRQ WR 0DNH 6DYH ‡ )RUZDUG %DFNZDUG /DWHUDO 6NDWLQJ ‡ ,QVLGH (GJH &RQWURO AGILITY FOCUS: 3URSHU 8VH RI *ORYHV 6WLFN 3DGV ‡ 5HERXQG &RQWURO ‡ /HJ 5HFRYHU\

If you are interested in a table, please complete the form and if applicable remit $75.00.

The exhibit table can be set up from 9:00 a.m. on Friday, July 13th and left until Sunday morning. Our hospitality room will be centered around the exhibit tables thus giving you great exposure. We expect to have 200-225 persons present at our meetings.

Forms for lodging and a tentative schedule are available on our web site at MAHA.org

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Kerin R. Wear, MAHA Secretary 366 Tara Drive, Troy, MI 48085 Phone: 248 879 1668 Fax: 248 879 2507 kerinwear@yahoo.com

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MAHA EXHIBITORS Name of Company__________________________________________ Contact Name_____________________________________________ Address__________________________________________________ City______________________________ State____ Zip____________ Home Telephone ( ______ ) ___________________________________ Work Telephone ( ______ ) ____________________________________ E mail Address_____________________________________________ Brief Description of Exhibit____________________________________

POWER SKATING, HOCKEY & GOALIE SCHOOL

________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________ Please return form and a check for $75.00 to: Kerin Wear, 366 Tara Drive, Troy, MI 48085 Phone: 248-879-1668

VXEXUEDQKRFNH\ FRP ‡ June 18, 2012 V.22 : I.22

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YOUTH HOCKEY

BELLE TIRE SQUIRT TEAM WINS BACK-TO-BACK TOURNAMENTS The Belle Tire 2003 Squirt A team finished the spring season strong, winning the Marty Sawyer Invitational and the Belle Tire End of School Classic tournaments on consecutive weekends. In nine games played the team lost only once. The first weekend had two competitive games against district rival Trenton. The first saw Belle Tire rally from a two-goal deficit to earn a 3-3 tie. In the semifinal, Trenton was held to only one goal for a 2-1 win. The final was a rematch against Blue Water, who had beaten Belle Tire earlier in the tournament. Smart play, a strong work ethic and solid team defense led to a 2-1 Belle Tire win and the title.

Belle Tire went unbeaten through four games in the second tournament, beating Novi, Plymouth and Redford. Excellent goaltending, forwards playing hard at both ends of the ice and a defense that yielded few quality scoring chances all combined to earn the championship.

The 2003 Belle Tire spring team roster: Dominic Brennan, Aaron Brow, Ben Carter, Trent Cobb, Aidan Haws, Keegan Harrington, Trayce Johnson, Ian Kielb, Justin Mexico, Thomas Newell, Braden Pattenaude, Andrew Stacey, Aidan, Brendan & Devin Stephens and Nina Winborn.

COMPUWARE NAMES MIKE HENRY NEW DIRECTOR

BY MICHAEL CAPLES The Compuware youth hockey program will have a new leadership group when fall hockey begins.

In a press release sent on June 8, Compuware Arena president Mike Vellucci formally announced the appointment of Mike Henry as the new director of one of the top youth hockey programs in the state. Vellucci also said that Bob DeSpirt – former head of the Novi Youth Hockey Association – will serve as assistant director of the program.

“The Compuware Youth program has established a standard of excellence for many years,” Vellucci said in the release. “Mike and Bob bring energy and experience to the program. I’m confident they’ll continue to build on the tradition of

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developing players on and off the ice.”

Both begin their positions immediately.

Henry, an arena manager for Compuware’s two-sheet facility in Plymouth, has served as a coach for the program, and was the interim youth director before today’s announcement. He began working for Compuware in 2006.

Vellucci said DeSpirt, who served as president for Novi’s youth association, will bring valuable experience to Compuware moving forward.

“Bob’s dealt with all levels of youth hockey for a long time,” Vellucci said. “His experience is invaluable. I look forward to seeing Mike and Bob assist Compuware hockey players reach their full potential.”

‘02 SUBURBAN STARS CAPTURE MOTOWN CUP The 2002 Suburban Stars went undefeated in the 2012 Squirt AA Motown Cup, outscoring the opposition 22-9.

The Stars kicked off the tournament with only eight players on Friday to defeat the Allen Park 01/02 Selects, 13-1. Brady Kane and Ronny Zam scored hat tricks and Adam Luma notched a playmaker.

Jake Kelbert and Jack Pado each scored two goals, while Dominic Kazmierczuk and Bryce Coleman tallied one apiece.

Elizabeth Kramp had 2 assists.

“It was nice to see every player contribute to the success of the game,” said head coach Vicki Crimmins. “Watching our new players having success and seeing them learn the game is the best part of coaching.”

Again with only eight players, the Stars played a tough Cambridge, Ontario team.

Trailing most of the game, the Stars rallied to tie the score at 4, with 18 seconds left in the game when Zach Hollman made a beautifully-executed goal, assisted by Brady Kane and Blake Crimmins.

The Stars didn’t look back as they defeated the Redford Kings 3-2, showing

unbelievable teamwork and work ethic.

“We passed the puck and we never quit.

It was nice to see our efforts pay off,” said assistant coach Tom Hollman.

Blake Crimmins scored twice and Kane also had one.

The championship game was a rematch with the Cambridge Hornets. While the Hornets scored first, it was just a matter of time before the Stars’ work ethic paid off. A hard shot from the point from Pado allowed for a perfect tip by Bryce Livesey. Next came a power play goal from Hollman, assisted by Kelbert, and Livesey scored his second of the night to give the Stars a 3-1 victory!

The MVP of the tournament was goaltender Remy VanWert, who was stellar all weekend.

The Suburban Stars are: Remy VanWert, Blake Crimmins, Zach Hollman, Brady Kane, Bryce Livesey, Jake Kelbert, Bryce Coleman, Jack Pado, Adam Luma, Logan Hill, Elizabeth Kramp, Dominic Kazimierczuk, Ronny Zamojski, and Nick Sweeney.

Note: These articles are reader submissions from a parent, coach, or player. Have your team highlighted on our website and in MiHockeyMag by e-mailing editor Michael Caples at mcaples@mihockeynow.com.

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COMPLETE AND UP-TO-DATE TOURNAMENT LISTINGS AT

MIHOCKEYNOW.COM

TOURNAMENT CALENDAR SEPTEMBER 2012 Hockey Time Productions Motown Cup Tournament Series Detroit, MI September 21-23, 2012 Mite-Midget House, B, A, AA High School Varsity and JV 216-325-0567 www.itshockeytime.com OCTOBER 2012 Otsego County Sportsplex Gaylord, MI AAA Early Bird Tournament October 5 – 7, 2012 4 game guarantee Level: 2000 8 team limit Jim Driver 989-858-3400 Email: jim@premierjd.com Hockey Time Productions Motown Cup Tournament Series Detroit, MI October 5-7, 2012 Mite-Midget House, B, A, AA High School Varsity and JV 216-325-0567 www.itshockeytime.com Otsego County Sportsplex Gaylord, MI AAA Early Bird Tournament October 12 - 14, 2012 4 game guarantee Level: 2001 8 team limit Jim Driver 989-858-3400 Email: jim@premierjd.com Otsego County Sportsplex Gaylord, MI AAA Early Bird Tournament October 19 - 21, 2012 4 game guarantee Level: 2002 8 team limit Jim Driver 989-858-3400 Email: jim@premierjd.com Hockey Time Productions Motown Cup Tournament Series Detroit, MI October 19-21, 2012 Mite-Midget House, B, A, AA High School Varsity and JV 216-325-0567 www.itshockeytime.com NOVEMBER 2012 Hockey Time Productions Motown Cup Tournament Series Detroit, MI November 2-4, 2012

June 18, 2012 V.22 : I.22

Mite-Midget House, B, A, AA High School Varsity and JV 216-325-0567 www.itshockeytime.com Hockey Time Productions Motown Cup Tournament Series Brighton/Novi, MI November 23-25, 2012 Mite-Midget House, B, A, AA High School Varsity and JV 216-325-0567 www.itshockeytime.com Hockey Time Productions Motown Cup Tournament Series Detroit, MI Nov. 30-Dec. 2, 2012 Mite-Midget House, B, A, AA High School Varsity and JV 216-325-0567 www.itshockeytime.com JANUARY 2013 Hockey Time Productions Motown Cup Tournament Series Detroit, MI January 18-21, 2013 Mite-Midget House, B, A, AA High School Varsity and JV 216-325-0567 www.itshockeytime.com

OUT OF STATE JUNE 2012 Weekend Hockey Tournaments Atlantic City, NJ June 15-17, 2012 19+, 25+, 30+, 35+, 40+, 45+, 50+ A, B, C, D, E Levels Mens/ Womens/ Co Ed 1-877-702-5701 905-827-3541 james@weekendhockey.com www.weekendhockey.com USA International Hockey Cup Blaine, MN June/ July/ August 2012 Boys and Girls Divisions Invite and Open AAA Competition JULY 2012 Walmart Hockey Cup 3v3 Challenge Blaine, MN July 14-15, 2012 Boys and girls ages 6-18 July 20-22 High school Boys’ and girls’ teams

SEPTEMBER 2012 Hockey Time Productions Rock ‘n Roll Cup Tournament Series Cleveland, OH September 7-9, 2012 Squirt-Midget House, B, A, AA High School Varsity and JV 216-325-0567 www.itshockeytime.com Hockey Time Productions Rock ‘n Roll Cup Tournament Series Cleveland, OH September 21-23, 2012 Mite-Midget House, B, A, AA High School Varsity and JV 216-325-0567 www.itshockeytime.com Hockey Time Productions Three Rivers Cup Tournament Series Pittsburgh, PA September 21-23, 2012 Mite-Midget House, B, A, AA High School Varsity and JV 216-325-0567 www.itshockeytime.com Hockey Time Productions Chi-Town Cup Tournament Series Chicago, IL September 21-23, 2012 Squirt-Midget House, B, A, AA High School Varsity and JV 216-325-0567 www.itshockeytime.com OCTOBER 2012 Hockey Time Productions Rock ‘n Roll Cup Tournament Series Cleveland, OH October 5-7, 2012 Mite-Midget House, B, A, AA High School Varsity and JV 216-325-0567 www.itshockeytime.com Hockey Time Productions Three Rivers Cup Tournament Series Pittsburgh, PA October 5-7, 2012 Mite-Midget House, B, A, AA High School Varsity and JV 216-325-0567 www.itshockeytime.com Hockey Time Productions Chi-Town Cup Tournament Series Chicago, IL October 5-7, 2012

Mite-Midget House, B, A, AA High School Varsity and JV 216-325-0567 www.itshockeytime.com Hockey Time Productions South Bend Cup Tournament Series South Bend, IN October 5-7, 2012 Mite-Midget House, B, A, AA High School Varsity and JV 216-325-0567 www.itshockeytime.com Hockey Time Productions Rock ‘n Roll Cup Tournament Series Cleveland, OH October 19-21, 2012 Mite-Midget House, B, A, AA High School Varsity and JV 216-325-0567 www.itshockeytime.com NOVEMBER 2012 Hockey Time Productions Rock ‘n Roll Cup Tournament Series Cleveland, OH November 2-4, 2011 Mite-Midget House, B, A, AA High School Varsity and JV 216-325-0567 www.itshockeytime.com Hockey Time Productions Three Rivers Cup Tournament Series Pittsburgh, PA November 2-4, 2012 Mite-Midget House, B, A, AA High School Varsity and JV 216-325-0567 www.itshockeytime.com Hockey Time Productions South Bend Cup Tournament Series South Bend, IN November 9-11, 2012 Mite-Midget House, B, A, AA High School Varsity and JV 216-325-0567 www.itshockeytime.com

Hockey Time Productions Rock ‘n Roll Cup Tournament Series Cleveland, OH November 23-25, 2012 Mite-Midget House, B, A, AA High School Varsity and JV 216-325-0567 www.itshockeytime.com

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Hockey Time Productions Three Rivers Cup Tournament Series Pittsburgh, PA November 23-25, 2012 Mite-Midget House, B, A, AA High School Varsity and JV 216-325-0567 www.itshockeytime.com Hockey Time Productions Chi-Town Cup Tournament Series Chicago, IL November 23-25, 2012 Mite-Midget House, B, A, AA High School Varsity and JV 216-325-0567 www.itshockeytime.com Hockey Time Productions Rock ‘n Roll Cup Tournament Series Cleveland, OH November 30-December 2, 2012 Mite-Midget House, B, A, AA High School Varsity and JV 216-325-0567 www.itshockeytime.com Hockey Time Productions Three Rivers Cup Tournament Series Pittsburgh, PA November 30-December 2, 2012 Mite-Midget House, B, A, AA High School Varsity and JV 216-325-0567 www.itshockeytime.com Hockey Time Productions South Bend Cup Tournament Series South Bend, IN November 30-December 2, 2012 Mite-Midget House, B, A, AA High School Varsity and JV 216-325-0567 www.itshockeytime.com

CANADA AUGUST 2012 Canadian Hockey Enterprises Whistler Cup Whistler, BC August 9-12, 2012 Over 19, 25, 30, 35, 40 divisions Canadian Hockey Enterprises 1-800-461-2161 www.chehockey.com email: goals@chehockey.com

OCTOBER 2012 Otsego County Sportsplex Gaylord, MI AAA Early Bird Tournament October 5 – 7, 2012 4 game guarantee Level: 2000 8 team limit Jim Driver 989-858-3400 Email: jim@premierjd.com Otsego County Sportsplex Gaylord, MI AAA Early Bird Tournament October 12 - 14, 2012 4 game guarantee Level: 2001 8 team limit Jim Driver 989-858-3400 Email: jim@premierjd.com Otsego County Sportsplex Gaylord, MI AAA Early Bird Tournament October 19 - 21, 2012 4 game guarantee Level: 2002 8 team limit Jim Driver 989-858-3400 Email: jim@premierjd.com

2012 SCHEDULE North American Holiday Hockey Adult & Youth 1-800-322-NAHH nahhtours.com NAHHTOURS@ aol.com Montreal, Quebec Complexe Sportif Bell (Canadiens’ Practice Facility) April 13 – 15, 2012 Toronto, Ontario Canlan Ice Sports April 20 – 22, 2012 Hartford, Connecticut International Skating Center of Connecticut April 27 – 29, 2012 Atlantic City, New Jersey Flyers’ Skate Zone (Flyers’ Facility) May 4 – 6, 2012

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HOMETOWN HEROES

STANLEY CUP

MATT GREENE NHL PLAYOFF TOTALS

20 2 GAMES

GOALS

4

ASSISTS

6

POINTS

12 PIM

NORTH DAKOTA (2002-2005)

122 3 GAMES

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GOALS

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ASSISTS

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POINTS

347 PIM

June 18, 2012 V.22 : I.22

CHAMPIONS

ALEC MARTINEZ NHL PLAYOFF TOTALS

20 1 GAMES

GOALS

2

ASSISTS

3

10

67

113

POINTS

PIM

MIAMI (2005-2008)

123 21 GAMES

June 18, 2012 V.22 : I.22

GOALS

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2012/13 FALL TRYOUTS 2005 STARS Coach – Manon Rheaume mrheaume33@aol.com

2004 STARS

Coach– David McCallum davidmccallum@wowway.com 21-June 6:00 PM - 6:50 PM 24-June 4:00 PM - 4:50 PM

2003 STARS

2002 STARS

Coach - Vicki Crimmins vcrimmins9@comcast.net 25-June 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM 28-June 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM

2001 STARS

Coach – Cal McGowan cmcgowan@suburbanice.com

98 STARS

2000 STARS

Contact – Sean Coffman sean.a.coffman@comcast.net 20-June 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM 26-June 8:30 PM – 10:00 PM 27-June 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM

99 STARS

96/97 STARS

Coach – Roger Graff rgraff19@gmail.com

Coach – Matt West mattlwest@charter.net 15-June 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM 16-June 4:30 PM – 6:00 PM

Coach – Mike McCollough mjmcc123@msn.com

Coach – Dan Cesarz dkkd141516@yahoo.com

248-888-1400 suburbanice.com )UHHZD\ 3DUN 'ULYH ‡ )DUPLQJWRQ +LOOV

GIRLS 2012/13 FALL TRYOUTS 10U ICEBREAKERS Coach – Geoff Bennetts gbennetts@suburbanice.com

12U ICEBREAKERS

Coach - Rick Murray SBNKBN !DPNDBTU OFU t +VMZ 1. o 1. +VMZ 1. o 1.

14U ICEBREAKERS Coach – Joe Jones jjones@suburbanice.com +VMZ 1. o 1. +VMZ 1. o 1.

16U ICEBREAKERS Coach – Glenn Stichhaller gsmv@comcast.net

Redford Township Hockey Association Fall Tryouts

www.redfordkings.com 2003 REDFORD KINGS

2003 REDFORD ROYALS

MONDAY July 16, 5:00 – 6:30 pm Cranbrook WEDNESDAY August 1, 5:00 – 6:30 pm Cranbrook For more info contact Chris at cjelinek@garanlucow.com

THURSDAY 6/7 6:00 – 7:30 pm Arctic Edge

2002 REDFORD KINGS

For information contact Chris at tke142@aol.com

MONDAY July 16, 5:00 – 6:30 pm Cranbrook TUESDAY July 24, 5:00 – 6:00 pm Cranbrook MONDAY July 30, 5:30 – 6:30 pm Cranbrook For more info contact Kevin at krsgolf@comcast.net

2002 REDFORD ROYALS

2001 REDFORD KINGS

FRIDAY 6/29 7:00 – 8:30 pm Novi For information contact Tim at tkielb@sbcglobal.net

WEDNESDAY July 25, 5:00 – 6:00 pm Cranbrook TUESDAY July 31, 5:00 – 6:00 pm Cranbrook For more info contact Pete at pcandoni@aol.com

2000 AA REDFORD KINGS MONDAY July 9, 5:00 – 6:30 pm Cranbrook MONDAY July 23, 5:00 – 6:30 pm Cranbrook THURSDAY August 2, 5:30 – 6:30 pm Cranbrook For more info contact Kip at maurerc@dteenergy.com

TUESDAY 6/12 6:00 – 7:30 pm Arctic Edge THURSDAY 6/14 6:00 – 7:00 pm Arctic Edge

MONDAY 6/25 7:00 – 8:30 pm Novi THURSDAY 6/28 7:00 – 8:30 pm Novi

2000 REDFORD ROYALS TUESDAY July 10, 8:00 – 9:30 pm Disc Dearborn TUESDAY July 17, 8:00 – 9:30 pm Disc Dearborn For more info contact Scott at scott_sinclair@mascohq.com

99 REDFORD ROYALS

2000 AAA REDFORD KINGS

MONDAY June 25, 6:30 – 8:00 pm Novi

For information contact Alan Sasson at alansasson@sbcglobal.net

For more info contact Brian Judd at whitnsam@sbcglobal.net

WEDNESDAY June 27, 6:00 – 7:30 pm Novi

99 REDFORD KINGS TUESDAY July 10, 5:00 – 6:00 pm Cranbrook WEDNESDAY July 18, 5:00 – 6:00 pm Cranbrook For more info contact Kurt at kkruger21@yahoo.com

For any other questions on the Redford Kings or Royals, please contact RTHA President Alan Sasson at 248-225-6132 or coach@redfordkings.com

S G N I K D R O F D E AAA R

JOINS ELITE PROSPECTS LEAGUE TO SHOWCASE TALENT The Redford Kings hockey club has been accepted as the latest entry in the Tier One National Junior Prospects Hockey League (NJPHL) beginning in the fall of the 2012-2013 hockey season. The move comes as the Kings program looks to showcase its considerable talent in national and regional hockey organizations, leaving a sometimes limiting "state focused" hockey agenda behind.

The U14 and U16 AAA Kings will be playing in national showcase tournaments in the northeast as well as in Michigan through the season and is the first of the Redford teams to make the jump to the league. The AAA U14 and U16 Kings will play immediately in the NJPHL. As with all Kings teams, the AAA program will continue to be led by Development Director Roman Andrys. We will adhere to our core training beliefs including a 4:2 practice to game ratio, a minimum of four on-ice AND off-ice training sessions a week with an emphasis on in-game puck possession and individual creativity. The Kings' training facility in Oak Park, Michigan also offers a state of the art private locker room, shooting skills and indoor track areas and advanced skill development.

For more information on joining the AAA Kings, e-mail coach@redfordkings.com

Tryout Dates

U14 June 12: 5:30 –7 pm Hazel Park June 17: 5 – 6:30 pm Hazel Park July 11: 5 – 6 pm Cranbrook

U16 June 16: 5 – 6:30pm Hazel Park June 19: 8:30 –10 pm Hazel Park July 17: 5 – 6 pm Cranbrook July 19: 5 – 6:30 pm Cranbrook

www.redfordkings.com

Lakeland Hockey Association offers programs to fit all levels Learn to Skate | House | Travel

Ask us how you can save up to 75% off your monthly ice bill.

8U Program — Bring a Friend Small Team Sizes | Jamborees

For general questions regarding registration please contact Lakeland Arena at 248-666-1911 or email lakelandarena@sbcglobal.net For the latest news and events please visit us on the web at WWW.LAKELANDHOCKEY.ORG 7330 Highland Road, Waterford, MI 48327 Phone: 248-666-1911 | Email: lakelandarena@sbcglobal.net

248-666-1911 WWW.LAKELANDHOCKEY.ORG

Lakeland Hockey Association 2012 Fall Travel Tryouts All tryouts $15 per skate, goalies are free

Lakeland Ice Arena | 7330 Highland Rd | Waterford, MI 48327 2004 Hawks

July 11, 6:00 – 7:00 pm July 13, 6:00 – 7:00 pm Coach: Steve McIntyre 248-830-4684

2004 Falcons

Visit www.lakelandhockey.org for tryout dates Coach: Wayne Pickett

2003 Hawks

Tryouts Completed Coach: Brad Martin 248-804-5158

2003 Falcons

Visit www.lakelandhockey.org for tryout dates

2002 Hawks (Formerly 2002 Falcons) June 11, 6:00 – 7:30 pm June 16, 1:00 – 2:30 pm June 18, 7:00 – 8:30 pm Coach: Craig Iverson 248-996-4843

2002 Falcons

Visit www.lakelandhockey.org for tryout dates

2001 Hawks

June 13, 6:15 – 7:45 pm June 20, 6:15 – 7:45 pm Coach: Kirk Grant 248-755-2896

2001 Falcons

July 17, 7:30 – 9:00 pm July 21, 4:30 – 6:00 pm June 26, 7:15 – 8:45 pm Coach: Jeff Seyka 810-533-0979

2000 Hawks

Tryouts Completed Coach: Brad Martin 248-804-5158

2000 Falcons

1999 Hawks

June 13, 7:45 – 9:15 pm June 16, 1:15 – 2:45 pm June 18, 8:30 – 10:00 pm Non-parent coach: Jeff Clark email: dswat@sbcglobal.net

1999 Falcons

June 25, 7:15 – 8:45 pm June 26, 7:30 – 9:00 pm June 28, 6:00 – 7:30 pm Coach: Bob Sereno 248-396-8523

1998 Hawks ($20 per skate)

LCAHL 2011 Smythe Champions 2012 Howe Division Champions June 27, 7:15 – 8:45 pm June 29, 7:45 – 9:15 pm June 30, 1:00 – 2:30 pm Coach: Hugh Pobur 248-672-3777

June 19, 7:30 – 9:00 pm June 21, 6:15 – 7:45 pm Coach: Mike LaBlanc 313-304-6484

Please visit www.lakelandhockey.org for any last minute schedule changes

JUNIORS

MICHIGAN QUARTET DRAFTS FOR THE FUTURE AT NAHL ENTRY DRAFT

BY MATT MACKINDER The Kalamazoo Jr. K-Wings, Michigan Warriors, Port Huron Fighting Falcons and Soo Eagles took part in the annual North American Hockey League draft on May 31 and all four teams went heavy on Michigan talent.

the Little Caesars U18 outfit 10 picks later.

The Warriors then selected Little Caesars U18 forward Parker Wood (Rochester), and Soo Eagles forward Connor Lyons (Clarkston) in the fourth round.

KALAMAZOO JR. K-WINGS

PORT HURON FIGHTING FALCONS

Making their first selection in the fourth round (81st overall), the Jr. K-Wings selected goaltender Nicholas Stuart from the Philadelphia Jr. Flyers. In 21 appearances with the Jr. Flyers, Stuart had a goals-against average of 2.70.

Helping St. Ignatius (Ohio) High School (Cleveland, OH) to a perfect regular season, Patrick Spellacy was picked in the fifth round (98th overall) by the Jr. K-Wings. Spellacy, who was the captain of the Wildcats, finished the season with 43 goals and 46 assists.

Keeping offensive in the sixth round (113th overall), Kalamazoo selected forward Mike Szmatula from the Summerside (PEI) Western Capitals. Szmatula, who played for Traverse City in 2010-11 and is committed to Holy Cross, led the entire MJAHL last year with 87 points (36 goals, 51 assists).

Hearing his name for a second time this spring in a hockey draft (7th round; Sault Ste Marie Greyhounds - OHL) was goaltender Brandon Halverson, a Traverse City native who was picked by the Jr. K-Wings in the eighth round (137th overall) out of the Little Caesars U16 team.

The Fighting Falcons used six of their eight draft picks to stay with Michigan-based prospects.

Zach Badalamenti of Harrison Township was the team’s firstround pick (19th overall). Badalamenti has bounced around in the NAHL and played the bulk of last season with the New England Huskies of the Eastern Junior Hockey League.

Howell native Jordan Simmonds, a forward from the Atlanta Junior Knights (EJHL), went in the fifth round (92nd overall). He had 18 goals and 24 assists in 43 games this past season.

Grand Rapids Catholic Central forward Donald Sund was tabbed in the sixth round (115th overall), followed by Traverse City Central High School defenseman Lucas Little at No. 128 in the seventh round.

MICHIGAN WARRIORS The Warriors’ brass gathered at Flint Iceland Arena to make their eight picks and according to head coach Moe Mantha, one characteristic stood out for all their selections - character.

With their first selection in the draft, the Warriors picked 18-year-old forward Jake Hopfner from Eastpointe sixth overall.

Hopfner had a taste of the NAHL last year with nine games in Jamestown, but wound up injured and then released.

The Warriors’ second selection was Ben Israel (Bloomfield Hills) from the Honeybaked U18s in the second round (30th overall), followed by defenseman Colin Horton (Grosse Ile) from

SOO EAGLES The Eagles, one of four new franchises in the NAHL next season after taking over the Traverse City North Stars and relocating to the Upper Peninsula, selected eight players Thursday.

With the 13th pick in the first round, the Eagles grabbed defenseman Alex Robert from the Compuware U18s.

The Eagles then took 1996-born forward Cody Milan from Orchard Lake St. Mary’s in the second round (37th overall).

Soo later tabbed Grosse Pointe North High School forward Anthony Saleh 78th overall, and Victory Honda U18 defenseman Zach Bishop at No. 95.

MICHIGAN PLAYERS DRAFTED BY NON-MICHIGAN TEAMS 3rd overall – Devin Kero – Hancock (Hancock HS) 6th overall – Jake Hopfner – Eastpointe (Leamington Flyers of the GOJHL)

13th overall – Alex Robert – Novi (Compuware U18) 19th overall – Zach Badalamenti – Harrison Township (New England Huskies of the EJHL) 21st overall – Tyler Groat – Wyandotte (Wyandotte Roosevelt HS) 30th overall – Ben Israel – Bloomfield Hills (Honeybaked U18) 31st overall – Bryce Lewan – Ann Arbor (Oakland Grizzlies Midget) 36th overall – Matt Siedel – (Honeybaked U18) 37th overall – Cody Milan – White Lake (Orchard Lake St. Mary’s HS) 40th overall – Colin Horton – Grosse Ile (Little Caesars U18) 42nd overall – Chase Matson – (Compuware U18) 72nd overall – Parker Wood – Rochester (Little Caesars U18) 74th overall – Jared Dedenbach – (Oakland Grizzlies Midget) 77th overall – Connor Lyons – Clarkston (Soo Eagles of the NOJHL) 78th overall – Anthony Saleh – Grosse Pointe (Grosse Pointe North HS) 83rd overall – Brett Heikkila – (Marquette Electricians Midget) 92nd overall – Jordan Simmonds – Howell (Atlanta Junior Knights of the EJHL) 95th overall – Zach Bishop – (Victory Honda U18) 101st overall – Scott Conway – (Victory Honda Midget) 107th overall – Zach O’Hara – West Bloomfield (Honeybaked U18) 113th overall – Mike Szmatula – Commerce Township (Summerside Western Capitals of the MJAHL) 115th overall – Donald Sund – Grand Rapids (Grand Rapids Catholic Central HS) 120th overall – Nicholas Laburn – Northville (Little Caesars U18) 126th overall – Brendon Kearney – (Honeybaked U18) 128th overall – Lucas Little – Traverse City (Traverse City Central HS) 135th overall – Ryan Polin – Lansing Capitals Midget 137th overall – Brandon Halverson – Traverse City (Little Caesars U16) 140th overall – Cameron Johnson – Little Caesars Midget 146th overall – Adam Larkin – Clarkston (Clarkston HS) 148th overall – Zachary Born – (Compuware U18) 151st overall – Stephan Beauvais – Orchard Lake St. Mary’s HS 156th overall – Josh Turkaly – Macomb (Wooster Oilers of the GLJHL) 161st overall – Bradley Pung – Victory Honda Midget

TWENTY MICHIGAN-BORN PLAYERS SELECTED IN USHL DRAFT The state of Michigan was well represented in this year’s USHL Draft. Here’s a look at the Michigan-born players selected.

1st overall – Tony Calderone – Trenton (Victory Honda Midget Major) It didn’t take long for a Michigan native to pop up on the USHL Draft board. Tony Calderone, a Trenton native, was selected first overall by the Sioux Falls Stampede.

Calderone scored 65 points (38 goals and 27 assists) for Victory Honda’s Midget Major squad this past season, making him the leading scorer in all of the Tier I Elite League.

The 6-foot, 185-pound forward can play wing and center and is already committed to Princeton University for the fall of 2014.

4th overall – Mackenzie MacEachern – Troy (Brother Rice HS) Mackenzie MacEachern, who was Mr. Hockey for the state of Michigan, was selected fourth overall by the Chicago Steel. He helped lead Brother Rice to the Division II state title, posting 90

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points in 29 games along the way. The Spartan commit led the Michigan Interscholastic Hockey League in scoring, and finished plus-50 in his senior season.

21st overall – Joe Ballmer – Kalamazoo (Jamestown Ironmen of the NAHL) 30th overall – Christian Wolanin – Rochester (Little Caesars Midget Major) 33rd overall – Nolan Valleau – Novi (Port Huron Fighting Falcons of the NAHL) 34th overall – Thomas Ebbing – Troy (Brother Rice HS) 50th overall – Dawson Cook – Cadillac (USA U17 Team) 58th overall – Zack Pittman – Macomb (Honeybaked Midget Minor) 62nd overall – Ben Storm – Calumet (Calumet HS) 68th overall – Charles Hemstrom – Romeo (St. Louis Bandits of the NAHL)

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74th overall – Michael McCarron – Macomb (USA U17 Team) 76th overall – Reid Sturos – South Lyon (Alexandria Blizzard of the NAHL) 108th overall – Tyler Dorantes – Waterford (Compuware Midget Major) 212th overall – Tyler Ross – Warren (Estevan Bruins of the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League) 218th overall – Chris Sitler – Canton (Springfield Jr. Blues) 219th overall – Michael Szmatula – Commerce Township (Summerside Western Capitals) 264th overall – Cameron Heath – Troy (Cranbrook HS) 286th overall – Jack Stander – Grosse Pointe Woods (HS) 318th overall – Benjamin Israel – Bloomfield Hills (Honeybaked Midget Major) 326th overall – Alex Pawelczyk – Sterling Heights (Compuware Midget Minor)

June 18, 2012 V.22 : I.22

2012

R E M SUM

FOLLOW US

ADULT HOCKEY LEAGUE Leagues Offered 18+ OPEN WEDNESDAY

Competitive recreational hockey for players with a lot of organized hockey experience.

18+ D TUESDAY

Recreational hockey for beginners and players with little or no organized experience.

30+ C THURSDAY

Competitive recreational hockey for players with some organized hockey experience and are at least 30-years old.

18+ C SUNDAY

Competitive recreational hockey for players with some organized hockey experience.

18+ D+ SUNDAY

Recreational hockey for teams beyond a beginner level, but not quite to a competitive level.

League Features Season runs early July - August No-check leagues Team and individual registrations Three 15-minute running time periods No hidden costs! Referee Fees and Scorekeepers Included!

TM

42400 Nick Lidstrom Drive (248) 347-1010 noviicearena.com

SO LONG

BY MICHAEL CAPLES In October, the Detroit Red Wings will embark on their first season without Nick Lidstrom in two decades.

The former captain is on his way back to his native Sweden. Yet his presence in Michigan – what he has meant to the growth and exposure of hockey in our state – will continue to live on.

The impact he’s had on all the players, all the fans, and everyone in Michigan, I don’t know if you can measure the impact that he’s had,” said Red Wings forward and Muskegon native Justin Abdelkader. “He’s going to go down as one of the greatest NHL players of all-time, and obviously one of the greatest Red Wings players of alltime.

“I think everyone is so impressed with everything he’s done - the Norris Trophies, the All-Star games, the Stanley Cups - but me knowing him as a person, I’m just as impressed with him as an individual. How he carries himself in the community, in the locker room, everywhere when he’s out in public, even when he’s in the locker room as a leader - he’s just such a great individual. He’s a great person.”

Throughout the days surrounding his retirement rement announcement, Lidstrom’s character was on full display.

He graciously thanked everyone he could during hiss press conference. He took the stage at a Red Hot Chili Peppers eppers concert to address the fans. And in an ad purchased ased in the Detroit Free Press, he told everyone in Michigan an how much he appreciated them helping him raise a family mily in Michigan, and that he would always consider himself lf to be both from Sweden, and from Detroit.

Lidstrom was a fixture around ice rinks in metro Detroit – or at least as much as a professional athlete can n be – while raising his four hockey-playing sons. Much of that time was spent at Novi Ice Arena, so much so that at the the nearest street after him. city named n Novi Ice Arena general manager Kris Barnes said No d that “The Perfect Human” label Lidstrom received during g his time with the Wings carried over outside of pro hockey. ckey.

“Nick’s just a great hockey dad,” Barnes said. “He “N watched practice, helped his kids get dressed, and watc volunteered a lot of his time to help out our youth v lu vo outh hockey association and the community. He was h c ho always available for kids looking for an autograph alw aph and an even stopped to pose for pictures on occasion. on.

He was great for the sport and we will definitely ely miss m him around the rink.”

Former NHL player and Honeybaked hockey ey coach Jeff Mitchell experienced the hockey dad co d side of Lidstrom while he coached his son, Lucas, s s, this past season. Mitchell, a Wayne native and t d third-round pick by Los Angeles in 1993, wass t taken aback by how humble Lidstrom was,

MiHockeyNow.com

even after experiencing the NHL stage himself.

“He was a good guy to get to know,” Mitchell said. “I played at that level and everything, and had an opportunity to meet a lot of guys, and you know, Nick and Holmstrom, they’re probably the two most humble guys I’ve ever met and easy to talk to. He became just one of the fathers on the team. But he also takes time for others. He’s never one to turn down a little kid for an autograph, you know?

“Looking at the whole picture, he’s been instrumental to the growth of the game. The Red Wings have been such a dominant team for such a long team, and he’s been a huge part of that. And just the way he carries himself both on and off the ice.”

Red Wings forward Drew Miller echoed the same sentiments as Mitchell after the Lidstrom retirement press conference. The Lansing native said that the Wings’ captain proved to be the perfect player for kids to grow up trying to imitate on and off the ice.

“Definitely in Michigan, I think a lot of players grow up idolizing him - try to emulate how he plays on the ice,” Miller said. “I think from a ‘hero’ standpoint, a lot of young kids are into hockey, continue to play hockey, because of him.”

June 18, 2012 V.22 : I.22

G, NICK

RED WINGS CAPTAIN LEAVES BEHIND A LEGACY IN MICHIGAN

WINGS FANS SHARE THEIR THOUGHTS Dawn Marie Garbarz – Very sad to see an end of an era.

He is a class act and a tremendous hockey player. Sad to see him go.

Meg Franklin-Judd – Gentleman Athlete. Always a pleasure to watch. You will be missed!!

Aaron M Quantz – It’s the end of an era. After 20 perfect seasons The Perfect Human Nicklas Lidstrom calls it a career. He gave Red Wings Fans all he had every night, of that much we are certain. Thank you my Captain for continuing to instilling class, dignity, and hard work into our team all these years. I look forward to seeing one of your boys wearing the Winged Wheel in the future.

Tony Schirripa – Thanks Mr. Lidstrom for 2 great decades.

Bryan Bernath – Nick, Thank you for being such a great role model for my kids. They have learned a lot by just watching you play the game.

Natalie Hrachovina Sandborn – So grateful that my son got to meet him and get his autograph at training camp last year! A true class act and hands down one of the best defenseman in the history of the NHL. A sad loss for Detroit, but I hope he finds happiness in retirement

June 18, 2012 V.22 : I.22

and is able to remain with the Red Wings organization in another capacity! Best of luck, Captain!

Robert Bruce Brevitz – Nick, thanks for renewing my faith in pro athletes. Thanks for showing me that nice guys don’t finish last. Thank you (and Steve Yzerman) for being the classiest pro athletes I’ve ever come into contact with.

Please don’t forget the people in Michigan because we will certainly never forget you. Enjoy your retirement. You’ve certainly earned it. You’ve brought more joy to a hardscrabble town than you will ever know. God bless you.

Meltdown-WRIF (@wrifmeltdown) - I’ll need more than 140 characters! Proud to call him a friend. Better guy than hockey player, if that’s possible John Barnhart (@JohnPhantom26) - it’s a good time for him to retire. He’s got all the accolades of a hall of famer.

It’s time for him to put his kids first.

Amanda LeBlonde (@puck_love)- It’s sad to see him go, but understandable. Skates like those are hard to fill. He’ll be missed.

Antonio Schippono – Nick is one of the best players to every play the game of hockey!! He has alot patience and he is the smartest player on the ice!! He is a player that i look up to on and off the ice!! He showed me how to be a defenseman and a leader!! Just want to say thank you Nick Lidstrom for all you have done for hockey and for Detroit that no one will forget about!!

Quinton Rossini (@qbaby21) - second best d of all time.

Easily the smartest player of his era, and best puck mover.

The “perfect human” is pretty accurate.

Michael Wittersheim (@ScheimTime34) - Lidstrom has been a huge part in bringing the red wings to where they are today. He will be strongly missed.

Johanna Seidel (@_johannaseidel) - Nick Lidstrom is the perfect human. It will be a shame if he retires after getting knocked out in the first round of playoffs!

Kyle Kelley (@kylekelley13) - Nicklas Lidstrom is the heartbeat and backbone of the Detroit Red Wings

Gordy P (@TheFakeGP) - Now that it’s all said and done, Nick has quietly made a case for himself as the greatest Wing of all time. Top 3 for sure.

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DeBackhand (@david_defever) - No matter what happens to #Lidstrom he will always be remembered as a legend not only in Hockeytown but the NHL #PerfectHuman

MiHockeyMag

27

PLYMOUTH WHALERS

HOUSE OF PAYNE: FLORIDA-BORN FORWARD BRINGS GRIT, ENERGY TO WHALERS

BY MATT MACKINDER Cody Payne is one of those players that opponents hate playing against, but would take him on their team in a heartbeat.

Coming to the Plymouth Whalers from the Oshawa Generals last year in an early-season trade, Payne quickly found his game being taken to another level and credited that improvement to Whalers’ head coach Mike Vellucci.

“I think my season picked up quite a bit after the trade and I think Vellucci focuses on my style of game – a chippy, grinding style,” said Payne, an 18-year-old native of Weston, Fla. “One thing Mike demands is commitment from his players on and off the ice and he really does all he can to get as much as he can out of each of his players.”

Going from Oshawa to Plymouth was a trade Payne welcomed and said he was happy to return to the United States. The Generals originally drafted Payne in the third round of the 2010 OHL draft.

“It was a good change,” said Payne. “It was good for my family, so they could come see me more and even for other reasons, like being comfortable in school and knowing the subjects, things like that. It was a bit of a culture shock in Oshawa and to be honest, I didn’t really know what to expect. It was nice to be recognized around town and things like that, but the winters were a grind – definitely not what I was used to from back home, that’s for sure.”

Florida natives playing high-level hockey aren’t too common, but the OHL had a handful last season. Payne went north to play for the Mississauga Reps minor midget team in the Toronto area during 2009-10 and then played 50 games in 2010-11 for Oshawa.

“It was a family decision for me to go and play in the OHL and my dad was a big help doing research and seeing that the OHL plays a pro-style game and schedule,” explained Payne, who had three goals and 14 points in 50 games for the Whalers last season. “For me, the OHL seemed like the right fit for me to develop into a pro-type player and really, it was an easy choice for me to commit to the OHL.” Growing up in Florida, Payne said like most kids down south, he got his start in the sport on inline skates and then evolved to ice skates.

“I started inline when I was nine or ten and I remember we had one of the best teams in Florida,” Payne said.

“Once we moved to ice, we started to travel to as many tournaments as we could in places like Toronto and Detroit to get exposure. Looking back on those first couple years and all those 6 a.m. practices, you never think those will ever pay off and you sometimes wonder why you kept on doing it. Once I kept playing and progressing, some people would tell me that I had talent and I only hope to prove them right. I think I’ve already accomplished so much, but I also know that there is so much to come.”

Payne has an outside chance of being drafted at the NHL draft June 22-23 in Pittsburgh and knows that even

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Cody Payne (Photo by Rena Laverty/Plymouth Whalers)

though some scouting reports have him ranked, some don’t.

“During the season, I know scouts are in the stands at every one of our games, but I just don’t pay attention,” said Payne. “All I know is that I’ve worked hard to get to this point and if I get drafted, it will be very exciting, but even to be recognized as someone with NHL potential is pretty good. If I don’t get drafted, I know there is always next year and I will just have to push myself even more.

“Next year, I think I can be one of those guys that work hard and set an example for some of the younger guys.

We’ll have a mixed team of rookies and veterans, but still a team that, even though we’re losing some key veterans, will still be extremely talented. It will be pretty interesting to see how everything shapes up.”

TOP TWO 2012 DRAFT PICKS SIGN The Whalers signed their top two draft picks from April’s OHL draft recently in first-rounder Zach Bratina and second-round pick Alex Peters.

“It’s definitely a relief in signing the contract,” Bratina said to plymouthwhalers.com. “I’m excited to start the season and couldn’t be happier with any other team.”

Bratina scored 22 goals with 21 assists for 43 points last season for the Central Ontario Wolves minor midget team.

“Zach has very good individual skill and an impressive scoring touch,” added Plymouth assistant general manager Brian Sommariva. “We are excited to have a player of his caliber choose the OHL and Plymouth.”

Peters is a defenseman and the younger brother of former Plymouth goalie Justin Peters and former Saginaw netminder Anthony Peters, “He’s a big kid who skates well for his size (6-foot-4, 188 pounds),” said Plymouth associate coach Joe Stefan.

“He’s got a pretty good head for the game and makes good decisions. We know Alex will come here with a great work ethic and hopefully, he’ll be a good player for us for three or four years.”

Both Bratina and Peters will report to Whalers’ training camp at the end of August at Compuware Arena.

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GRAND RAPIDS GRIFFINS Photo by Mark Newman/Grand Rapids Griffins

VETERANS KEY FOR 2012-13

BY KYLE KUJAWA GRIFFINS

In the American Hockey League, having a strong group of veterans is essential for success on the ice.

Not including goaltenders, the AHL permits teams to play five players who have more than 260 games of professional experience, which includes the NHL, AHL, IHL and European elite leagues. As it stands right now, the team’s veteran core will look very different next season.

Each of the five veterans who finished the season in Grand Rapids are set to hit the open market on July 1, meaning the first few weeks of unrestricted free agency will be just as important for the Griffins as it is for the parent Detroit Red Wings.

Even if there is a lot of activity in July, there’s a good chance the Griffins won’t know who their veterans are until training camp. Forwards Tomas Tatar (who sits just over the veteran limit at 261 professional games played) and Joakim Andersson (272 games played) will be in the mix for full-time roster spots in Detroit, but could easily be returned to the AHL because both are exempt from waivers.

The same applies for Fabian Brunnstrom, who is an unrestricted free agent with 284 pro games under his belt. If any of those three return, Grand Rapids could slot them into a sixth veteran spot (unused by the team in 2011-12) reserved for players with 320 or fewer games of professional experience. Otherwise, that spot could be occupied by Francis Pare, who sits sixth in Griffins’ history with 295 games played and has another year left on his contract.

Each veteran from last year’s crew certainly made a strong case for sticking around for another season, but a number of factors will determine if they reprise their role. The Red Wings will have the final say on who gets an NHL contract, and may see fit to keep one around for depth on the big club’s roster. Additionally, others could be looking to secure a contract with an organization that isn’t as deep as Detroit, potentially on a one-way deal, or look to Europe as an alternative path to further their pro hockey career.

Chris Conner was up and down in his first year with the organization, and he enjoyed the luxury of being able to

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see his family in Plymouth, Mich., more often, whether he was in Grand Rapids or Detroit. The energetic and skilled forward is the youngest of the five and definitely did not look out of place during NHL call-ups. If he can’t be promised an NHL deal elsewhere, it seems likely that Detroit would have the inside track on a two-way contract due to location.

Captain Garnet Exelby has the most NHL experience of the bunch at 408 games, and he posted a career offensive year while providing his trademarked reliable, physical game in the defensive zone. His serious demeanor but light-hearted attitude in the locker room makes him a valuable role model to the team’s young defensemen, and his experience was called upon when Detroit selected him as a “black ace” for their playoff run.

Doug Janik is in a similar boat as Exelby, as he provides Detroit with NHL-ready depth and sets a good example with his proficiency at each end of the ice. After bouncing around between three different organizations (and their AHL affiliates) during the 2008-09 season, it’s obvious that Janik has enjoyed the stability that three seasons in Grand Rapids has offered.

Jamie Johnson enjoyed a bounce-back campaign, eclipsing last season’s goal totals in just 27 games and tying with Tatar and Gustav Nyquist for the team scoring lead. The 30-year-old spent his first two professional seasons in the ECHL and has cemented himself as the type of consistent scorer that AHL teams push their NHL affiliates to lock up.

Chris Minard will be the first to tell you that his 2010-11 offensive output was not up to snuff, and after missing the first half of this season with a concussion, many doubted if he could regain his form. But the sharp-shooting forward won Reebok/AHL Player of the Month in his first full month back and recorded a team-high three hat tricks en route to capturing the Fred T. Hunt Award for his comeback efforts.

With five or six spots open for next season, the Griffins will face difficult decisions as they try to balance familiar faces against fresh ones.

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“It can be tough to play hockey and balance your academics, but in the end you are rewarded with a college degree and you get to pursue your hockey career.”

JUSTIN ABDELKADER Michigan State University

Detroit Red Wings Play It Smart. Play College Hockey. www.collegehockeyinc.com Follow us on:

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MiHockeyMag

31

JUNIORS PREVIEW RED WINGS INSIDER

WINGS’ HOLLAND FACING A PERFECT STORM THIS SPRING

BY DAVE WADDELL Detroit Red Wings’ general manager Ken Holland has faced a perfect storm this spring.

He’s seen another early playoff exit, the retirement of defenseman Nick Lidstrom and the departure of freeagent defenseman Brad Stuart.

The Wings are at a crossroads and how well Holland plays his cards over the next couple of months is going to have a big impact on Detroit for several years to come.

“I feel pressure every day,” said Holland, who got this summer of change underway by trading away the rights to Stuart to San Jose for a conditional seventh-round pick and a throw-in player the team won’t sign.

“We all know what the expectations are in Detroit. Our ownership, management, players and fan base expect to contend for the Stanley Cup. “That’s the challenge. That’s what we signed up for.

“That’s the goal here this summer, to put a team together that Wings’ fans are going to be proud of.”

Just how the Wings go about doing that has been the subject of this month’s organizational meetings.

As currently constructed - even if they get good internal growth and prospects Brendan Smith and Gustav Nyquist have impressive rookie seasons - the Wings aren’t good enough to fulfill Holland’s mission statement.

Detroit has four glaring needs - a pair of top-four defenseman, a top-six forward, a veteran goaltender to provide insurance in case back-up Joey MacDonald’s back issues resurface and a big, grinding forward to add some sandpaper to the bottom-six forwards.

Should they reach the open market, forward Zach Parise and defenseman Ryan Suter will be Detroit’s primary targets. It’s also believed Florida defenseman Jason Garrison intrigues the Wings, especially being a right-handed shot.

With two significant holes on their blue line now, the Wings are also likely to kick the tires of the likes of defensemen Dennis Wideman and Matt Carle.

Montreal’s Travis Moen - Detroit tried to acquire the 28-year-old at the trade deadline - would fill their needs for a gritty bottom-six forward.

With $26.25-million to spend, Holland may well be the busiest GM in the league come July 1.

“We have a lot of good pieces in place,” said Holland, who also confirmed MacDonald won’t need back surgery and is on track to be healthy. “The next four or five weeks we’ve got to figure out a way to make the team better, deeper and a little different.

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MiHockeyMag

“It takes more than one or two players to make a good team. We’ll explore free agency and trades.”

For several weeks now, there have been rumblings surrounding the Wings that they are planning on doing something different or unexpected. With Lidstrom retired, Holland admitted you could look at this summer as something of a clean slate that gives him more freedom in how he constructs his team.

Holland refuses to rule out anything this summer, including avenues he’s never been down before.

“I’ve never done it, but I have no problem with it,” said Holland of whether being more aggressive means acquiring the right to negotiate with a targeted freeagent before July 1.

“Are we prepared to acquire a player’s rights at the draft? Absolutely, if the price is right and it’s a player we’re interested in.”

Holland also dismissed the notion that Lidstrom’s retirement makes Detroit a less desirable destination for free agents. He points out he believes the Wings’ reputation and attractiveness as a franchise is built on more than that.

“We’ve still got Pavel Datsyuk and Henrik Zetterberg down the middle as our 1-2 centermen,” Holland said.

“I’m not going to tell you that’s the best, but I’d like

MiHockeyNow.com

to think that pair is in the top five in the league. We’ve got a 27-year old goaltender, who until the 60-game pole (when he got injured), was having a tremendous year.

“There are other pieces here.

“This is a special city, with a special fan base and I think there’s incredible passion from our ownership and everybody involved with the team.”

Holland also appears to be keeping his options open as much as possible regarding his own players. He has only had casual talks with his team’s own free agents.

In addition to Stuart, who wanted to leave for San Jose due to family reasons, Jiri Hudler and Tomas Holmstrom are unrestricted free agents. Holmstrom remains undecided about whether he’ll retire and there’s a good chance none of the trio will be back.

The Wings intend to sign restricted free agents Darren Helm, Justin Abdelkader and Kyle Quincey.

“It’s all about planning,” said Holland, who admitted he initiated some potential trade talk at the recent general manager meetings in New York.

“It’s all about being ready. We’re going to be making decisions in 10 or 15 minutes on July 1st.

“Obviously, the team is in transition. We’re hoping the transition takes only five, six or seven weeks.”

June 18, 2012 V.22 : I.22

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JUNIORS THE LAST PREVIEW LINE

H

earing Ilya Kovalchuk say all the right things and seeing him comfortable enough to joke around with the media - in English - leading up to the Stanley Cup Final made me smile.

As the first overall pick in 2001 by the Atlanta Thrashers and the first Russian ever selected first overall in the NHL draft - Kovalchuk teamed with Dany Heatley to wage a Calder Trophy race between teammates that was truly special. Kovy missed the final 17 games of the season after separating his shoulder in Long Island from a hit by Zdeno Chara, and Heatley won the Calder.

Still, Kovalchuk was the precocious and prodigious scorer, exciting in the open ice and unstoppable oneon-one. Early on, everyone raved about his unbelievable talents. He was big, raw-boned, fast and unafraid. He was Alex Ovechkin before Alex Ovechkin – a physical specimen from Russia who could skate, score and celebrate like no one in North America. Some of the Canadian media dogged Kovalchuk from the beginning, unable to forgive him for his ‘arm-raised-we’re-No. 1’ celebration as he cruised in uncontested to score an empty-netter in the World Juniors against Canada. Beyond that blasphemous moment, he was Russian, or more accurately, not Canadian. And he played for a team in Atlanta – a city thought not worthy of NHL hockey by those fans north of the border.

Over time – especially after Ovechkin vs. Sidney Crosby took the league by storm after the lockout – Kovalchuk became an afterthought. The quick caricature scouting report became that he was selfish, one-dimensional and irrelevant playing for the perennially poor Thrashers.

When he fled for New Jersey – traded then signed as a UFA - it wasn’t so much reported as, “look what the Devils are getting” but instead, “how much they’re paying for a greedy, selfish, one-dimensional player,” that he would never fit into the Devils’ total team concept. Two years later, we have Kovalchuk saying all the right things, while the uninitiated are now exposed as oh so wrong.

Kovalchuk today is a more mature person and player than he was when he burst onto the scene as an 18-yearold. Hopefully, that applies to us all, no matter what we do. But, he was always liked by his teammates. His drive to win fueled his ‘trying to do too much’ on a bad team as a young player. Off the ice, he married and settled down early on and is the proud papa of three. His sense of self and purpose have never wavered. When asked what the best moment of his hockey career was, he remarked, “making the playoffs.” Now, it will have to be, “making the Stanley Cup Final.” No victory for Kovalchuk. Just more detractors lining up to say he reverted to bad habits when things got tough.

In the end, this wasn’t about Kovalchuk’s quest for Russian redemption at all. This was about an L.A. Kings franchise finally validating expansion inclusion in 1967 with its first ever Stanley Cup. This was about American pride, as goaltender Jonathan Quick was the playoff MVP Conn Smythe winner and captain Dustin Brown raised the Cup as only the second American-born player to have that honor (Michigan native Derian Hatcher was the first). This was about an improbable run by a group that looked plodding and inept offensively most of the year, changed coaches, made trades, eked into the playoffs as the eighth seed and ran through the West on the strength

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KOVY, BROWN PROVE THE DOUBTERS WRONG

BY DARREN ELIOT of a perfect road record in the playoffs.

Just like new coach Darryl Sutter rallied this team to save their season, this Kings’ squad showed their resolve by getting to their game in Game 6 after suffering consecutive losses for the first time this spring. Leading the way was Captain Brown – dominant for two rounds, but dormant for much of this series. He hit, scored, played hard and led his team the only way he knows how. It isn’t always pretty with Brown, but it is always honest. He is a perfect fit for his like-minded head coach. He is the antithesis of the Hollywood lights, having grown up in

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@Darren_Eliot Ithaca, New York. In the end, Brown, rumored headed out of town at the trade deadline, and Kovalchuk, speculation having him heading to Tinseltown two summers ago as the must-have free agent, proved two things: that the old adage about the best moves are often the ones never made applies here and that Hollywood loves an American hero, even if he doesn’t fit the type cast.

No matter what the script is moving forward for the L.A. Kings, Dustin Brown played his best when it matters most. That solidifies him as the team’s leading man. A worthy Captain America.

June 18, 2012 V.22 : I.22

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