MichiganHockey July 4, 2011

Michigan Hockey michiganhockeyonline.com V.22 : I.2 | July 04, 2011 FIRST CLASS

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Table of Contents July 4, 2011 Volume 22 : Issue 2 AMATEUR HOCKEY REPORT

Rochester Hawks win Onyx Spring Showdown League Rochester Golden Seals wrap up Spring Showdown Championship

MH BEAT

Compuware Arena named Quest for the Best contest winner MAHA Summer Meeting heads to Grand Traverse Ann Arbor Ice Cube to host USA Hockey Five Nations Tournament

SPEAKING OF HOCKEY

Do you have any superstitions?

STATE OF THE GAME

By Lyle Phair What’s a coach to do?

GET BETTER

Goalies do off ice training too

YOU SHOULD KNOW

12

14

15

16

REEBOK TOURNAMENT CALENDAR

17

New Jersey Devils’ Brian Rolston

18

TRYOUTS

28

JUNIOR HOCKEY

OHL: Whalers and Spirit players get drafted

Equipment Buyers Guide New sticks, skates and protective gear

8 10 22

Brighton’s Jon Merrill

HOMETOWN HERO

PAGES 23-27

6 6

COLLEGE HOCKEY

Wolverines and Huskies name new assistant coaches

34

36

COMING IN OUR NEXT ISSUE FALL TRYOUTS

PAGES 20-21 20th Anniversary Season MH celebrates 20 years with a look back at 2007

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Michigan Hockey

PAGE 19 USA Hockey Summer Congress and award winners

PAGE 38 Red Wings Insider Team adds skill and size

MichiganHockeyOnline.com

Don’t look now but players are getting ready to get back on the ice for fall tryouts. We’ll have some tips on making the team, along with a feature on how much is too much training. We’ll also take a look back at the year 2008 in celebration of our 20th season of Michigan Hockey.

Look for it on arena stands, at michiganhockeyonline.com and in your e-mail on July 1, 2011.

Contact Lucia Zuzga at (248) 479-1134 or lucia@ michiganhockeyonline.com or Philip Colvin at (248) 479-1136 or phil@michiganhockeyonline.com for more information.

From the Editor

FROM THE EDITOR

Editor-in-Chief Philip D. Colvin

phil@michiganhockeyonline.com

Advertising Lucia Zuzga

lucia@michiganhockeyonline.com

Summer fun

Database Manager Josh Curmi

jcurmi@michiganhockeyonline.com

Design Chuck Stevens Contributing Editor Kevin Allen Josh Curmi Distribution Lucia Zuzga Administrative Director Amy Jones EDITORIAL BOARD: Bob DeSpirt, Christine Szarek, 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. They must be signed and include the writer's full home address and day and evening telephone numbers.

MICHIGAN HOCKEY is published by SUBURBAN SPORTS COMMUNICATIONS, LLC 23995 Freeway Park Drive, Suite 200, Farmington Hills, MI 48335-2829.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to MICHIGAN HOCKEY®, 23995 Freeway Park Drive, Suite 200, Farmington Hills, MI 483352829. ©2010 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.

MICHIGAN HOCKEY 23995 Freeway Park Drive • Suite 200 Farmington Hills, MI 48335-2829 (248) 478-2500 • FAX: (248) 478-1601 EMAIL: mh@michiganhockeyonline.com WEBSITE: michiganhockeyonline.com

Goalie gear, where to buy store directory and more

Cover reprints available email: mh@michiganhockeyonline.com

Have a great summer,

USA Hockey’s Ken Martel responds to ADM questions

Winner will receive a Cascade M11 Helmet

Cover: By Dave Reginek/DIG Photo Photos at left: (from top, L to R): Detroit Red Wings locker room at training camp

by Dave Reginek/DRW, Andy Miele by Tom Kimmel/USA Hockey and Tomas Jurco by Aaron Bell/OHL Images.

As usual, summer is flying by and I hope you are enjoying it.

In this issue our Equipment Buyers Guide starts on page 23 with a look at some of the new skates and sticks on the market and how helmet manufacturers are working to design new products to help lessen the chance of getting a concussion.

Michiganhockeyonline.com’s “Only on the Web” has more equipment content, including a look at goalie gear, a Where to Buy store directory and a complete Q & A with equipment industry leaders.

Also in this issue, MAHA president George Atkinson checks in with a Be Our Guest column (page 10) on the merits of playing Cross-Ice and the ADM. This year’s MAHA Summer Meeting (page 10) will be at the Grand Traverse Resort outside Traverse City, July 8-10. While the new location is a good enough reason to attend, this year’s gathering is shaping up to be very informative and productive. In addition to the discussion on the 8-Under Cross-Ice rule change proposal, the Friday Association President’s Meeting will feature multiple hot topics and Saturday’s symposiums include interactive presentations on implementing the ADM in your association and ways to attract more kids to hockey and keep the ones you already have.

In addition, Dr. Steven Norris, who works with Hockey Canada and the Canadian Winter Olympic teams, will give the keynote address and will be available for a Q & A session. He’s a very engaging speaker and has the answers to any questions you have about the ADM’s long-term athlete development principles.

Finally, this is my last issue as editor of Michigan Hockey as I am joining the Central Collegiate Hockey Association as the league’s communications director.

I’ve enjoyed every minute of covering youth hockey, talking to all of the volunteer coaches and administrators who make the game go in this state and watching all of the players who compete for the sheer love of the game and the chance to move up the hockey ladder.

Michigan players earn invite to WJC camp

MichiganHockeyOnline.com

Prize winner will be announced July 30th on our Facebook page

Michigan Hockey

5

Amateur Hockey Report

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

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

Skyler Creed 9 Eaton Rapids 4' 11" 76lbs.

Lansing Capitals Left Wing Frankie Dunn Greyhound Intermediate 5 Red Wings Henrik Zetterberg

Rochester Rochester Hawks Hawks win win Onyx Onyx Ice Ice Arena Arena Spring Spring Showdown Showdown League League The Rochester Hawks Pee Wee squad went undefeated and took the Onyx Rochester Arena Spring Showdown title in the Silver Elite division.

The Hawks finished 13-0 and outscored opponents 107-15.

The Hawks are: Grant Williams, Trevor Oberliesen, Tony

Kurtis Skinner

Neubacher, Alex Beck, Nick Yatooma, Zach Barrette, Nathan LaFalce, Matt Miller, Kurt Bedra, Jerry Calcaterra, Brennan Walsh and Joey Lindenfelser.

The head coach is Greg Neubacher and assistant coaches are Jim Oberliesen and Tim Miller.

6 Eaton Rapids 3' 6" 46lbs.

Suburban Bruins Goaltender Mike Rucinski Lockwood Elementary 1 Red Wings Jimmy Howard

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Michigan Hockey

Rochester Rochester Golden Golden Seals Seals wrap wrap up up Spring Spring Showdown Showdown Championship Championship The Rochester Golden Seals capped off their undefeated Bantam Spring Showdown League season with a championship game win over the Rangers 4-2 at the Onyx Rochester Ice Arena.

Trailing by two goals late in the second period, the Seals scored got two goals in 18 seconds from Aaron Griffin and Connor Darrow to tie the game. Then in the third period the Seals added goals by Tyler Ashwell and Ethan Fuller for the win. Goalie Sante Bologna shutout the Rangers in the final

MichiganHockeyOnline.com

period complete the Seals 12-0 perfect season.

The Golden Seals are: Austin Angelo, Tyler Ashwell, Sante Bologna, Lou Carabelli, Nick Costello, Connor Darrow, Jack Dimefski, Nick Farrar, Ethan Fuller, Nathan Garlick, Aaron Griffin, John Krust, Jacob Maddox, Cooper Purdom, Drew Sorrell, Mark Vitale, and James Wisniewski. Coaches are: Mike Darrow, Jim Carabelli, Brian Fuller, Mike Garlick and John Angelo.

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Customer Appreciation Day July 13th - August 17th Wednesdays ¡ 6 weeks Ages 4-8 6:15 - 7:15pm Ages 9-13 7:15 - 8:15pm

$95 per playerr Limited registration Full equipment required If equipment is needed, the ONYX will provide.

Emphasis on creating a fun, challenging environment for players to learn the beginning stages of balance, skating in equipment, and handling the puck

Quest for Best Arena

July 4, 2011 Volume 22 : Issue 2

PHOTO BY TOM TURRILL/MICHIGAN HOCKEY

T H E

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> Behind the

scenes in Torino

The insider’s magazine on the rink industry.

Compuware Arena’s director of communications Pete Krupsky (left) and Denise Ronayne, sales and marketing director, pose with the 2011 Michigan Hockey Quest for the Best Arena banner.

Compuware Arena Arena develops develops into into Compuware venue year-round entertainment entertainment venue year-round

BY PHILIP COLVIN

Since opening in the fall of 1996, Compuware Arena’s programs, amenities and prime location have helped it become one of the busiest facilities in Michigan.

The two-rink facility is home to the Ontario Hockey League’s Plymouth Whalers, Compuware AAA Hockey Club, Compuware House League and the Detroit Catholic Central and Plymouth Wildcats high school teams.

The arena also hosts hockey schools, concerts, the MHSAA state tournament, high school graduations and college graduations, birthday parties and a three-screen Drive-In Movie Theatre in the parking lot all summer long.

Michigan Hockey readers noticed and voted Compuware Arena as the best in the state in the 2011 Quest for the Best Arena poll.

“That’s very exciting and an honor,” said Denise Ronayne, Compuware Arena’s director of sales and marketing. “I’m glad the readers of Michigan Hockey cared enough to pick us. Our staff takes pride in making this a great place to skate and we appreciate the recognition.”

Built by Compuware Corporation owner Peter Karmanos, Jr. on a 30-acre parcel of land on the east side of Beck Road just north of M-14, Compuware Arena sits on the highest point of the property surrounded by woods and natural wetlands.

“After spending many years in rinks around the United States and Canada with his youth teams, Mr. Karmanos wanted to build a first-class facility for parents and their kids in this area,” said Compuware Arena President Mike Vellucci. “With all the events going on here, we’ve become a big part of the community. People enjoy coming to Compuware Arena. ” The 170,000 square foot facility has a large lobby with a concourse that runs between the two ice sheets and arenas. One side contains a NHL-sized ice surface with seating for over 3,500 (standing room capacity of approximately 4,500), private suites, a press box and is the home ice to the OHL Whalers. The other arena has an Olympic-size ice surface and seating for 800.

Compuware Arena includes 11 locker rooms, three dedicated locker rooms, video arcade, the Slap Shot snack shop and the Whalers Cove pro shop.

C.J.’s Brewing Company, a full service restaurant and bar with a meeting and party room, occupies a large spot in the front of the complex at the same level as the ice arena concourse.

8

Michigan Hockey

The arena also runs Learn to Skate and Learn to Play Hockey classes, holds Open Skate and Sticks and Pucks sessions and figure skaters use the Olympic-size ice surface to train.

“We’ve really tried to get as many kids involved in the game as we can,”said Ronayne.

With its seating capacity, numerous amenities and proximity to the multiple hotels and restaurants of western Wayne Country, Compuware Arena is well equipped to host large gatherings.

A big weekend on the facility’s calendar is the MHSAA state tournament semifinals and finals, held every March at Compuware Arena since 2003.

“We enjoy our relationship with Compuware Arena,” said Randy Allen, assistant director of the MHSAA. “It’s a perfect fit for us. Right now, it’s the perfect place, the perfect size – and more than anything else – the people make us feel welcome and go out of their way to make it work for us.”

The facility has also hosted ice shows, trade shows, pro wrestling and several concerts.

“Compuware Arena is a perfect size for concerts, it has great acoustics and a location that can’t be beat,” said Dan McGowan of the Crofoot Ballroom, who moved a concert that had outgrown the Crofoot to Compuware Arena earlier this year.

“We’re looking to book even more shows,” said Mike Henry, Compuware Arena manager. “We’d like people to see that we are a good venue and have more acts start coming.”

And from June – September, the Compuware Arena parking lot transforms into a Drive In theatre that shows first-run movie double features 7-days a week. With special kid’s pricing and Dinner-and-a-Movie promotions, the Drive-In has become a hotspot for families in western metro-Detroit.

“This is a very exciting time of year for us with the drive in movies,” said Henry.

“And we’re looking forward to another great summer.”

The diversity of programming and events has helped Compuware Arena grow and evolve into a 12-month a year entertainment venue. And that’s not all - Whaler games have also been the setting for several wedding proposals.

“Our plan has always been to offer quality programs and events at an affordable price,” said Ronayne. “We want our customers to have a great experience.”

MichiganHockeyOnline.com

rinkmagazine .com

Be Our Guest

George Atkinson, MAHA President

ADM lays the foundation for success of young players Editor’s Note: Atkinson responds below to questions raised by District 4 about the USA Hockey American Development Model (ADM). Those questions and ADM Program Manager Ken Martel’s answers to those questions can be found in the “Only on the Web” section at michiganhockeyonline.com.

attract more players. We certainly were missing the huge development and training program that has now been provided by USA Hockey.

The fact we had a head start gives us the advantage to be able to implement this program faster than some of the other areas of the country.

USA Hockey’s ADM is based on proven long-term development principles, is used in many sports and in many countries for developing young athletes to be the best they can be, whether they want to be a recreational player or an NHL star.

Research and experience show that the ADM’s 8-and-Under cross-ice/half-ice games and station-based practice programs are critical building blocks to the development of the skills that will be the foundation for everything players need to achieve success in the future.

The ADM program for children 8-and-Under includes a practice structure that roughly doubles the active development time compared to a traditional practice on full-ice. The station-based practices provide a constant challenge to players of different abilities. With 6-8 players in each group, coaches can adjust the difficulty of a drill at each station based on the ability level of the players in that group. During games, players are matched against opponents of equal ability.

The smaller surface size keeps all players more engaged during games and concentrating on puck control, both a big plus for the ADM program. Players touch the puck more and learn better control than they would in a full-ice game. They also score more goals and have more fun, which is the ultimate goal.

Research also shows that players trained in small areas develop an ability to handle the puck in tight spaces, become more comfortable with body contact at an earlier age and are put into more situations that develop natural hockey sense and on ice awareness.

The Detroit Red Wings’ Henrik Zetterberg grew up playing in this type of system in Sweden.

“It is great to see that USA Hockey and MAHA have the best interests of developing young players in mind,” said Zetterberg. “I grew up in a system where playing games in limited spaces defined how we were taught the game. There is no doubt that it played a big role in developing my skills and abilities as a player.”

A CONSISTENT APPROACH TO DEVELOPMENT

DOWNSIZED PLAYING SURFACE MAKES SENSE The ADM, at the 8-and-Under level, has also outlined the playing surface size for games that best fits our kids. The number of skating strides taken from sideboard to sideboard (cross-ice) for an 8 and under player ranges from 14 to 16 strides. The average number of strides for a quality adult player is 15 to 17 strides for the full length of the ice. This difference is attributed to limb length.

So, in essence, the cross-ice environment is the correctly proportioned, downsized playing surface for young players. Many other sports such as baseball, tennis, golf and soccer downsize their field of play to improve player development and enjoyment for younger participants.

My daughter has played soccer since she was four-years old. We started on a very small field playing three-on-three with no goalie. It wasn’t until this year, at the U13 level that she played on a full-size field. I have never heard one complaint from soccer parents on this development strategy.

With all these benefits, I hope you can see why we don’t want to wait to implement this program. Procrastination will mean many young players will not be given the opportunity to take advantage of the development opportunities we now have at our disposal.

MAHA has actually been a leader in the adoption of the ADM Program. We instituted our Michigan OneGoal program ahead of the national announcement of the ADM. We were on the right track of using small ice games and practices to lower costs and

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Michigan Hockey

Last summer the MAHA directors voted to transition toward the implementation of the 8-and-under ADM by the 2012-13 season. I formed a committee with members from all areas of the state to come up with a solution. We took all input and drafted a rules proposal based on what the majority of the committee felt at the time was best, and put that rule change forward to be voted on at our Summer Meeting on July 10.

As of today, I know of no other rule change proposals or amendments proposed by anyone other than the ADM Committee. We are certainly open to alternative proposals that better meets the needs of our members, but they must take advantage of the development model, not disregard it.

The ADM program is actually more challenging than the present curriculum and has elements built into it to continue to challenge the more advanced player with more difficult drills and assignments.

The facts show that 68% of our young players will play three years or less of crossice. If cross-ice practices and games are not implemented at ages seven and eight, 45% of our players will never be given the chance to develop their skills properly.

Michigan Amateur Hockey Association has been a leader in many initiatives with USA Hockey over the years. We have a history of success, but we need to continue to work to maintain that success in the future. The challenge is to build a consistent approach to player development. The implementation of a smaller ice surface and the ADM principles for age 8-and-Under players is the foundation of the future success of young players in Michigan.

We continue to look for a solution that implements the ADM in all facets and serves all of our members in the best possible way. We hope that District 4 will be part of that solution and provide meaningful alternatives if you wish, rather than seeking to delay the development of our players, and divide our organization on the issue.

Our minds need to be open about what gives our young players the best chance for success in their hockey future whatever that dream may be. The rest is for us as adults and leaders in our organization to figure out how to make that happen for them.

If all our focus is put on what is best for the development of the kids, I know we will find a solution everyone can embrace.

MichiganHockeyOnline.com

MAHA Summer Meeting heading to Traverse City The Michigan Amateur Hockey Association is trying something new this summer.

For the first time, the organization’s annual summer meeting is set for July 8-10 at Grand Traverse Resort in Acme, just outside of Traverse City.

In addition to committee reports, voting on rule change proposals and the annual Awards Banquet, this year’s gathering will also feature several informative sessions to help administrators improve their youth associations.

On Saturday, USA Hockey’s CourtneyWelch and Pat Kelleher of the Membership Services Department will lead an interactive workshop to provide ideas and helpful tools to grow the game and increase player retention.

The pair will unveil this year’s new player retention strategy and will also share several new campaigns available for use to attract new players, including events during Come Play Hockey Month this November as well as Hockey Weekend Across America next February.

Also on Saturday, ADM regional manager Bob Mancini will lead a workshop on implementing the ADM into associations. Mancini will also unveil a new handbook for program administrators to use to implement the ADM in your association.

MAHA president George Atkinson will also review the changes to the Red Wing Premiere Program for the 2011-12 season and discuss the requirements needed to qualify and how to get your association signed up. Also included will be information on how to sign up for the Try Hockey for Free programs that have helped get so many new players on the ice.

Dr. Steven Norris, an authority on long-term athlete development, will give the keynote address at the MAHA Summer Meeting and will also be available at for a Q & A session on Saturday afternoon.

Dr. Norris, currently an adjunct professor in applied physiology at Mount Royal University in Calgary, Alta., has worked with Hockey Canada for 15 years and was the director of sport physiology & strategic planning at the Canadian Sport Centre Calgary for the past three Winter Olympic cycles (2002, 2006 and 2010), focusing on Canada’s winter sport teams.

In addition to the Summer Meeting, the Detroit Red Wings will hold a Coach’s Clinic around their prospect Development Camp on July 10 at Centre Ice arena in Traverse City. The clinic runs from 1 – 5:30 p.m., and includes lunch with guest speakers Ken Holland, Executive V.P. and General Manager of the Red Wings and Jim Nill, V.P. and Assistant General Manager of the Red Wings.

Clinic attendees will observe the Red Wings Development camp conditioning, skill development and scrimmages and then have a Q & A session with camp coaches Jiri Fischer, Jim Bedard, Curt Fraser, Jim Paek and Tomas Storm.

Space is limited and the cost of the clinic is $95.

Byy Phil Colvin

MAHA Summer Meeting Grand Traverse Resort in Acme July 8-10

Speaking of Hockey

July 4, 2011 Volume 22 : Issue 2

Any superstitions before games?

“I chew three pieces of gum and three tic-tacs.”

Michael Abels, 13, Troy Sabres Bantam B

“I smack the goalposts with my stick.”

Michael Fisher, 13, St. Clair Shores, Troy Sabres Bantam B

“I tap my stick on the boards.”

Wyatt Radakovitz, 12, Grand Rapids, West Kent Hawks

“I juggle.”

Collin Lemay, 19, Fairlawn, NJ, Pittsburgh Jr. Penguins

“I take a cold bath the night before.”

Andy Singerhouse, 20, Hudson, WI, Owatonna Express

“I use one stick in warm ups and another for the game.”

Charlie Adams, 18, White Bear Lake, MN, Austin Bruins

“I listen to music.”

Niko Voutsaras, 13, Lansing Capitals Bantam B “I eat two oranges, one apple and one banana.” Nick Widing, 19, Somerset, WI, Owatonna Express

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Michigan Hockey

“I bang my skates on the boards.”

Andrew Peters, Troy Sabres Bantam B

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State of the Game

State Game of the

by Lyle Phair

WHAT’S A COACH TO DO? Coaching a hockey team of kids can be a very enjoyable and rewarding experience. Or it can be a nightmare and the season can’t end fast enough.

How the season turns out for a team and the coaching staff is often determined by what the expectations are going in. Setting the bar too high can result in disaster if those results are not achieved, and makes for a very long season.

All too often the measuring stick of the success of a team, and its coaches, is the won-loss record. Win more than you were expected to and you are a great coaching staff. Lose more than you are supposed to and you suddenly couldn’t coach a 10-year old to eat a hot fudge sundae.

For professional coaches, winning is what it should be all about - the true measure of success. Everything in the organization is predicated on the won-loss record. As it should be. Professional coaches know, going in, that they are hired to be fired, and eventually they all are.

But at the youth level, is that really how we should evaluate coaches?

Is that really how we should measure them, by their won-loss record?

Competition is great. It is one of the main reasons why players participate in sports, and it can help them to learn how to approach or compete in all facets of life as they grow up. But in every game, one team wins and one team has to lose, which means that if we use the won-loss record as a barometer, at least 50% of coaches are going to be deemed failures. To take it one step further, only one team can win the championship, so does that mean that all of the rest of those coaches are not doing their job?

THE DEFINITION OF SUCCESS Coaching youth sports has changed a great deal in the past 20 years.

Activities are much more organized and leagues much more structured.

The days of sending your kid down to the ballpark, or dropping them off at the local rink to practice or play are long gone.

Parents are much more involved nowadays and the society that we live in today dictates that they should be very involved in their kids’ activities. But how involved should they be? At what point do they stop becoming supportive parents, and start getting involved in the competition themselves?

As parents, we are all very proud of our kids and very passionate about what they do and how they do it. We want them to do well. We want them to succeed. And when they don’t succeed, at least under our definition of success, which is winning, we look for someone to blame. All too often, that is the coaching staff. Who wants to volunteer to coach under those circumstances, with that pressure?

Not all pressure is created by the parents. Many coaches bring it on themselves, particularly at the A, AA and AAA levels, where teams are formed by tryouts. In an effort to attract top talent to their team, they need to be perceived as a winner. So they advertise their success, listing

14

Michigan Hockey

their playing and coaching accomplishments so players will want to play for them, to be on a winner. Raise the bar that high and you are only setting yourself up for failure. Unless you happen to win it all, which only one team can do.

WHAT MAKES A GOOD COACH? If winning should not be the sole indicator of a “good coach”, what is? If you have played the game at a higher level, junior, college, or professionally, does that automatically make you a good coach? Maybe, maybe not. All that it really gives you is a beginning level of credibility.

Playing a sport is entirely different from coaching a sport. Many great players have learned and refined their skills over time, and have no idea how to break them down to teach them. More importantly, they often don’t possess the people skills to effectively communicate with parents, and most importantly, the players. And finally, the game, at those higher levels, is a completely different game than the game the kids play. At the junior, college and professional level they are no longer kids, they are adults, with a much higher level of maturity, and are coached with a totally different approach than kids should be.

Can someone who has little, or no playing experience be a good coach for kids? Absolutely. But right off the bat, they will not get that instant credibility and will have to be that much better than a former player. If they have solid communication skills, they will do just fine. Any adult can learn as much as they need to know about the game to be able to teach it to kids. It’s really not that difficult. Aren’t the bleachers full of experts? Seriously, any mature adult with good communication skills can coach kids, if they are willing to learn the necessary skills and concepts at each age level.

Many adults who would make great coaches often think they can’t get involved because they don’t have experience playing the game and don’t have the confidence in their abilities on the ice to demonstrate skills in practices. While it definitely helps to have a solid command of skating and puckhandling skills, it is certainly not necessary. Coaches can utilize more skilled players to demonstrate skills to others on the team. Or teams can utilize student coaches, older players who really are apprentices, who have the physical skills to demonstrate in practice, and at the same time are training to be able to coach when they reach adulthood.

Of all youth sports, USA Hockey has long offered the most comprehensive coaching education program to provide coaches with the knowledge to work with kids at each of the levels.

And while the coaching education program has been solid for years, to keep up with changing times the program is undergoing some changes for the coming season. While coaches will still need to attain designated coaching levels as they move through the system, they will also be required to take age-specific training modules on a regular basis to ensure that they are prepared to coach at each new age group that they reach as they move up the ladder. Like anything does, it will take some time to get used to, but in the long run it will provide coaches with the tools necessary to create a quality experience for the players on their teams.

REASONABLE EXPECTATIONS So what really should we expect from hockey coaches? What are they responsible to do? How should they be evaluated?

Players need to learn how to win. They need to learn how to lose.

They need to learn to respect their teammates, their opponents, their coaches, the referees and the arenas they play in, and most importantly, to respect the game itself. They need to be challenged to improve their physical skills and their knowledge of the game. They need to learn that they have to play hard to succeed. They need to learn how to be part of a team and that it is not an individual sport, but a team sport and everyone on the team has to contribute in some way.

But most of all they need to have fun and enjoy the sport so much that they can’t wait for the next season to start. If a coach has accomplished that, it has been a successful season.

MichiganHockeyOnline.com

MEALS for

Hockey Moms SMOTHERED CHICKEN WITH BROWN RICE

4 slices bacon, chopped 4 small boneless skinless chicken breast halves (1 lb.)

1 cup fat-free reduced-sodium chicken broth, divided

4 large carrots (1 lb.), thinly sliced

2 oz. (1/4 of 8-oz. pkg.)

Neufchatel Cheese, cubed

1 large onion, chopped

3 cups hot cooked brown rice

COOK and stir bacon in large nonstick skillet on medium heat 5 min. or until crisp.

Remove bacon from skillet; drain on paper towels. Discard drippings from skillet.

ADD chicken to skillet; cook 5 to 6 min. on each side or until golden brown on both sides and done (165ºF). Transfer chicken to plate; cover to keep warm. Add vegetables and 1/2 cup broth to skillet; cover and simmer 10 min. or until vegetables are tender.

STIR in broth and Neufchatel; cook, uncovered, 2 min. or until Neufchatel is melted and sauce is thickened, stirring frequently.

Return chicken to skillet; cook 2 min. or until heated through. Spoon rice onto serving plate; top with chicken, sauce and bacon.

Enter in our Hockey Mom Recipes contest on our Facebook page.

Submit your favorite recipe. If selected to run in the paper you will

win a $25 $ Restaurant.com card.

Contact Lucia @ 248-479-1134 if you would like to sponsor this unique program.

Get Better

July 4, 2011 Volume 22 : Issue 2

Yes, goalies train too!

BY DARREN ELIOT

Every goaltender needs to include off-ice training in the summer. The objective is to get yourself in the best condition possible. Make sure you challenge yourself by setting goals to improve times and increase repetitions.

Summer dry land training may seem a long way from stopping pucks in January, but the correlation lies in the dedication to being the best possible goaltender at all times.

Weights: An important component of any dry land regimen. Goaltenders should focus on full range of motion and explosive moves, concentrating on leg development. Accordingly, bounding, leaping, standing long jump and jump rope training all should be part of the program. Strength and flexibility are the targets, not bulk and beach-cut proportions. That means less weight and more repetitions.

Cardiovascular - aerobic: The base for endurance. Often overlooked by goaltenders as being unnecessary, strong aerobic training is vital to stamina late in games, especially as the season wears on. Long distance running always worked best for me. The time spent running provides an excellent opportunity to mentally go over various on-ice situations as well. That’s why timing video sessions to immediately precede a long run is a wise training idea.

Cardiovascular - anaerobic: The life-blood of goaltending is the ability to perform in bursts and recover efficiently. Again, I favored running, going through sets of sprints of 50, 100, 200 and 400 yards and the shorter the distance, the higher the repetitions. Variations can include sprints followed by push-ups and sit-ups.

Stretching: Stretching before and after workouts is required and even on scheduled off-days, time should be set-aside for a rigorous stretching session. And it is not just about flexibility. There is a strength derived from stretching that is of specific import to playing the position.

4 SKILL STATIONS 2

Off-ice workouts are an important part of a goalie’s training.

Jump Rope sets: Various sets of two legged, one-legged and alternate legged sets help coordination and quickness. If your younger players think jumping rope is for ‘sissies’, remind them boxers use jump rope drills all the time to train and improve footwork fundamentals.

Obstacle Course Racing: Any running drill through a made-up course (make it fun!) that involves sprinting, cutting, dropping to the ground and reversing field is appropriate and effective method to strengthen pivoting skills.

Defensive Back Drills: Borrowing from football, any of the quick-cover shadow drills used by defensive backs and cornerbacks are terrific ways to work on both foot-speed and pivoting. Crossover running, lateral crossover sprints, back-pedaling and cutting all pertain.

Vertical Leap: The basic ‘how high can you jump’drill done in sets against a wall.

Make sure to alternate left-side, right-side and facing in relationship to the wall to ensure balanced development of all muscle groups.

Standing Long Jump: How far forward can you leap from a stationary position?

This is one of the best and easiest drills to develop that quick burst capacity in the legs that is vital to goaltending.

Balance: Stand on one leg then the other. Then do the same thing with your eyes closed. Repeat until developing the calm to hold the position with eyes closed. Any kind of balancing apparatus can be used (footboard, pogo stick, even jump rope exercises).

Source: Darren Eliot/Favorites - FlexCoach

Purpose: improve passing, receiving, skating agility, puck protection utilizing misdirection and cycling.

Set-Up: Divide the rink up into 4 stations and divide the players evenly. Station 1 consists of Cycling with a high roll misdirect to create a scoring chance utilizing the space behind the puck carrier. Station 2 consists of puck control in a 1-on-1 situation in a tight area to teach the players to use your body to shield the puck using good positioning, balance and strength. Station 3 is a to develop good passing and receiving fundamentals with proper weight transfer for hard flat and controlled passes tape to tape. Station 4 focuses on transition skating with proper pivots from forward to backward and backward to forward while maintaining control and passing the puck while in motion.

MichiganHockeyOnline.com

SEND THEM TO US. WE WANT TO HEAR ABOUT IT! MH@MICHIGANHOCKEYONLINE.COM

Michigan Hockey

15

FAVORITE SPORTING EVENT: A Detroit Tigers game

FAVORITE BREAKFAST FOOD: Hash Browns

WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST CONCERT: Steve Miller Band

MUST SEE TV:

Family Feud, Baggage and Lingo

IF YOU COULD HAVE ANY SUPERPOWER, WHAT WOULD IT BE:

Invisibility

FAVORITE MOVIE:

Dazed and Confused

WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN YOU HAVE AN HOUR OF FREE TIME: Sit in the dorm and watch the Game Show Network

IF YOU WERE GIVEN 1 MILLION DOLLARS, WHAT WOULD YOU SPEND IT ON:

M

IF YOU COULD HAVE ONE WISH GRANTED, WHAT WOULD IT BE: To win the Cup

PRE-GAME ROUTINE:

I put my left shin pad, skate and elbow pad on before the right every time

JON

Give it to my parents for all the hours and money to let me play hockey

L I R L R E

Nineteen-year old defenseman and Brighton native Jon Merrill helped Michigan make the final of the NCAA Frozen Four as a freshman..

He played two seasons with the USA Hockey National Nationn Team Development Program (NTDP) and graduated from Ann Arbor Pioneer. A second round pick of the New Jersey Devils in the 2010 NHL Draft, Merrill scored seven goals and 25 points this season and also won a bronze medal with Team USA at the 2011 World Junior Championship in Buffalo, NY.

TOURNAMENT CALENDAR Great Lakes Tournament Series Holland, MI September 16-18 Pee Wee AA and Bantam AA Contact MYHockey Tournaments Toll Free US and Canada 855898-4040 myhockeytournaments.com Hockey Time Productions Motown Cup Tournament Series Detroit, MI September 23-25, 2011 Mite-Midget House, B, A, AA High School Varsity and JV 216-325-0567 itshockeytime.com Great Lakes Tournament Series Holland, MI September 23-25 Squirt AA and Bantam A Contact MYHockey Tournaments Toll Free US and Canada 855898-4040 myhockeytournaments.com Great Lakes Tournament Series Holland, MI September 29-October 2 Squirt A, Midget Major and High School Varsity Contact MYHockey Tournaments Toll Free US and Canada 855898-4040 myhockeytournaments.com Hockey Time Productions Motown Cup Tournament Series Detroit, MI October 7-9, 2011 Mite-Midget House, B, A, AA High School Varsity and JV 216-325-0567 itshockeytime.com Hockey Time Productions K-Zoo Cup Tournament Series Kalamazoo, MI October 7-9, 2011 Mite-Midget House, B, A, AA High School Varsity and JV 216-325-0567 itshockeytime.com Hockey Time Productions Girls Motown Cup Tournament Series Detroit, MI October 7-9, 2011 8U-19U House, B, A, AA 216-325-0567 itshockeytime.com Great Lakes Tournament Series Holland, MI October 7-9 Pee Wee A, Midget Minor and High School JV Contact MYHockey

Tournaments Toll Free US and Canada 855898-4040 myhockeytournaments.com Great Lakes Tournament Series Holland, MI October 14-16 Mite AA, Pee Wee AA and Bantam AA Contact MYHockey Tournaments Toll Free US and Canada 855898-4040 myhockeytournaments.com Hockey Time Productions Motown Cup Tournament Series Detroit, MI October 21-23, 2011 Mite-Midget House, B, A, AA High School Varsity and JV 216-325-0567 itshockeytime.com Hockey Time Productions Girls Motown Cup Tournament Series Detroit, MI October 21-23, 2011 8U-19U House, B, A, AA 216-325-0567 itshockeytime.com Great Lakes Tournament Series Holland, MI October 21-23 Squirt A, Squirt AA and Midget B

Contact MYHockey Tournaments Toll Free US and Canada 855898-4040 myhockeytournaments.com Hockey Time Productions Motown Cup Tournament Series Detroit, MI November 4-6, 2011 Mite-Midget House, B, A, AA High School Varsity and JV 216-325-0567 itshockeytime.com Hockey Time Productions Girls Motown Cup Tournament Series Detroit, MI November 4-6, 2011 8U-19U House, B, A, AA 216-325-0567 itshockeytime.com Great Lakes Tournament Series Holland, MI November 4-6 Pee Wee B, Pee Wee A and Bantam B Contact MYHockey Tournaments Toll Free US and Canada 855898-4040 myhockeytournaments.com

Great Lakes Tournament Series Holland, MI November 11-13 Mite B, Squirt B and Bantam A Contact MYHockey Tournaments Toll Free US and Canada 855898-4040 myhockeytournaments.com Great Lakes Tournaments Series Holland, MI November 18-20 Mite AA, Pee Wee B, Midget Major and High School Varsity Contact MYHockey Tournaments Toll Free US and Canada 855898-4040 myhockeytournaments.com Hockey Time Productions Motown Cup Tournament Series Brighton/Novi, MI November 25-27, 2011 Mite-Midget House, B, A, AA High School Varsity and JV 216-325-0567 itshockeytime.com Hockey Time Productions K-Zoo Cup Tournament Series Kalamazoo, MI November 25-27, 2011 Mite-Midget House, B, A, AA High School Varsity and JV 216-325-0567 itshockeytime.com Hockey Time Productions Girls Motown Cup Tournament Series Brighton/Novi, MI November 25-27, 2011 8U-19U House, B, A, AA 216-325-0567 itshockeytime.com Great Lakes Tournament Series: Great Lakes Thanksgiving Classic Holland, MI November 25-27 Mite through Midget; B, A, and AA, High School Varsity and JV Contact MYHockey Tournaments Toll Free US and Canada 855898-4040 myhockeytournaments.com Hockey Time Productions Motown Cup Tournament Series Detroit, MI December 2-4, 2011 Mite-Midget House, B, A, AA High School Varsity and JV 216-325-0567 itshockeytime.com

COMPLETE and UP-TO-DATE TOURNAMENT LISTING ON WEBSITE

michiganhockeyonline.com

Hockey Time Productions Girls Motown Cup Tournament Series Detroit, MI December 2-4, 2011 8U-19U House, B, A, AA 216-325-0567 itshockeytime.com Great Lakes Tournament Series Holland, MI December 2-4 Squirt B, Squirt A and Bantam B Contact MYHockey Tournaments Toll Free US and Canada 855898-4040 myhockeytournaments.com

OUT OF STATE Hockey Time Productions Rock ‘n Roll Cup Tournament Series Cleveland, OH September 9-11, 2011 Squirt-Midget House, B, A, AA High School Varsity and JV 216-325-0567 itshockeytime.com Hockey Time Productions Rock ‘n Roll Cup Tournament Series Cleveland, OH September 23-25, 2011 Mite-Midget House, B, A, AA High School Varsity and JV 216-325-0567 itshockeytime.com Hockey Time Productions Three Rivers Cup Tournament Series Pittsburgh, PA September 23-25, 2011 Mite-Midget House, B, A, AA High School Varsity and JV 216-325-0567 itshockeytime.com Hockey Time Productions Girls Three Rivers Cup Tournament Series Pittsburgh, PA September 23-25, 2011 8U-19U House, B, A, AA 216-325-0567 itshockeytime.com Hockey Time Productions Girls Three Rivers Cup Tournament Series Pittsburgh, PA September 23-25, 2011 8U-19U House, B, A, AA 216-325-0567 itshockeytime.com

Steel City Tournament Series: Pittsburgh Preseason Challenge Pittsburgh, PA September 23-25 Mite through Midget: B, A, and AA, High School Varsity and JV Contact MYHockey Tournaments Toll Free US and Canada 855898-4040 myhockeytournaments.com CHICAGO CUP Tournament Series: Chicago Preseason Challenge Chicago, IL September 29-October 2 Mite through Midget; B, A, and AA, High School Varsity and JV Contact MYHockey Tournaments Toll Free US and Canada 855898-4040 myhockeytournaments.com Hockey Time Productions Rock ‘n Roll Cup Tournament Series Cleveland, OH October 7-9, 2011 Mite-Midget House, B, A, AA High School Varsity and JV 216-325-0567 itshockeytime.com Hockey Time Productions Girls Three Rivers Cup Tournament Series Pittsburgh, PA October 7-9, 2011 8U-19U House, B, A, AA 216-325-0567 itshockeytime.com Hockey Time Productions Three Rivers Cup Tournament Series Pittsburgh, PA October 7-9, 2011 Mite-Midget House, B, A, AA High School Varsity and JV 216-325-0567 itshockeytime.com Buckeye State Tournament Series Cincinnati, OH October 14-16 Mite through Midget; B, A, and AA, High School Varsity and JV Contact MYHockey Tournaments Toll Free US and Canada 855898-4040 myhockeytournaments.com Hockey Time Productions Rock ‘n Roll Cup Tournament Series Cleveland, OH October 21-23, 2011 Mite-Midget House, B, A, AA High School Varsity and JV 216-325-0567 itshockeytime.com

Music City Tournament Series: Nashville Fall Classic Nashville, TN October 21-23 Mite through Midget; B, A, and AA, High School Varsity and JV Contact MYHockey Tournaments Toll Free US and Canada 855898-4040 myhockeytournaments.com Hockey Time Productions Three Rivers Cup Tournament Series Pittsburgh, PA October 21-23, 2011 Mite-Midget House, B, A, AA High School Varsity and JV 216-325-0567 itshockeytime.com Hockey Time Productions Girls Three Rivers Cup Tournament Series Pittsburgh, PA October 21-23, 2011 8U-19U House, B, A, AA 216-325-0567 itshockeytime.com CHICAGO CUP Tournament Series: Chicago Fall Classic Chicago, IL October 21-23 Mite through Midget; B, A, and AA, High School Varsity and JV Contact MYHockey Tournaments Toll Free US and Canada 855898-4040 myhockeytournaments.com Steel City Tournament Series: Pittsburgh Fall Classic Pittsburgh, PA October 21-23 Mite through Midget; B, A, and AA, High School Varsity and JV Contact MYHockey Tournaments Toll Free US and Canada 855898-4040 myhockeytournaments.com Empire State Tournament Series: Empire State Showdown Rochester, NY October 21-23 Mite through Midget; B, A, and AA, High School Varsity and JV Contact MYHockey Tournaments Toll Free US and Canada 855898-4040 myhockeytournaments.com Carolina Cup Tournament Series: Charlotte Fall Classic Charlotte, NC October 21-23 Mite through Midget; B, A, and AA, High School Varsity and JV Contact MYHockey Tournaments Toll Free US and Canada 855898-4040 myhockeytournaments.com

Left Wing Born: Feb 21, 1973 Hometown: Flint Height/Weight: 6-2/214 Shoots: L Season Team 1991-92 1992-93 19 993 9 -9 94 1993-94 1994 9 -95 1994-95 1994-9 95 1994-95 19 995 5-9 96 1995-96 1 996 96-9 -9 -97 97 1996-97 1 19 97-98 1997-98 1 19 998 8-99 1998-99 1999 9-0 -00 1999-00 1 19 999 9-00 1999-00 1999-0 -0 00 1999-00 2000 0 -0 00 01 2000-01 2001 01 02 01-0 2001-02 2002-03 20 3 2003-0 -0 04 2003-04 20 00 05 5-0 06 2005-06 2006 20 0 -0 06 07 2006-07 2007 0 -08 8 2007-08 2008 08-0 08 8 09 2008-09 2009 09-1 09 -10 -1 0 2009-10 2 20 10 0-11 2010-11

BRIAN ROLSTON

Lake Superior State Lake Superior State Alba Al b nyy River Rat ba as Albany Rats N Ne w Je JJersey erssey e Dev e ils New Devils Allbany nyy R iver iv err R e ats ats at Albany River Rats N Ne ew Je ersey e Devils New Jersey N Ne ew Jersey Je e y Dev e ili s New Devils New Je ersey e Dev evils Jersey Devils New Je Ne ersey D evils Jersey Devils Ne ew Je ersey D evills ev New Jersey Devils Coloraado Co d A valanc ncche Colorado Avalanche Bost ton n Bruins Boston Boston Bo o Bruin ns Bruins Boston Bo on n Bruins Bru r ins B Bo ston o Bruins Bruinss Boston B Bo ston on Bruins Bru uinss Boston M Mi nnes e ot o a Wi W ld Minnesota Wild M Mi nnes e ot otaa Wi Wild Minnesota M Mi Minn innesot o a Wi ild l Minnesota Wild N Ne w Je JJersey rsey D evils New Devils Ne ew Je JJersey rsey D evils New Devils Ne N ew Je JJersey rssey Devil ls New Devils

League

GP

G

CCHA 41 18 CCHA 39 33 AHL 17 5 NHL 40 7 AHL 18 9 NHL 58 13 NHL 81 18 NHL 76 16 NHL 82 24 NHL 11 3 NHL 50 8 NHL 16 5 NHL 77 19 NHL 82 31 NHL 81 27 NHL 82 19 NHL 82 34 NHL 78 31 NHL 81 31 NHL 64 15 NHL 80 20 NHL 65 14 NHL Totals 1186 335

A 28 31 5 11 11 11 27 14 33 1 10 4 39 31 32 29 45 33 28 17 17 20 402

Pts PIM 46 64 10 18 20 24 45 30 57 4 18 9 58 62 59 48 79 64 59 32 37 34 737

16 20 8 17 10 8 20 16 14 0 12 6 28 30 32 40 50 46 53 30 22 34 458

Graduated from Pioneer High School in Ann Arbor… Played two seasons of college hockey at Lake Superior State University (CCHA) and made the NCAA championship game in each season…Won the NCAA title in 1992 and scored the championship-winning goal in title game as a freshman...

Named to the NCAA All-Tournament Team in both 1992 and 1993... Named to the NCAA West Second All-Star Team and CCHA First All-Star Team in 1992-93…Led the Lakers in scoring with 64 points as a sophomore…

Drafted 11th overall by the New Jersey Devils in the 1991 Entry Draft… Posted first NHL point (assist) vs.

Washington on 2/15/95 and scored his first NHL goal vs. Montreal on 2/27/95... Won Silver Medal with Team USA at the 2002 Olympic Games in Salt Lake City…

Won Gold Medal with Team USA in the 1996 World Cup of Hockey... Wife’s name is Jennifer, has three sons, Ryder, Brody and Stone… Offseason home is in Traverse City...Nickname is “Rolly”... Hobbies include playing golf, guitar and drums...Began playing hockey at age five... Most memorable NHL moment is winning the 1995 Stanley Cup with the Devils... Brothers, Ron and Greg, are the most influential people in his hockey career...Grew up rooting for the Edmonton Oilers and his favorite player was Mark Messier...Favorite current day athlete is Roger Federer... Favorite band is Red Hot Chili Peppers… Favorite road city is New York and Madison Square Garden is favorite road arena...First job as a kid was mowing lawns...Favorite food is pizza...Favorite television show is “The Office” and favorite movie is Anchorman...

Howard Stern is the person he’d like to meet.

USA Hockey

USA Hockey votes to move full body checking to Bantams In addition, while the Progressive Checking Skill Development Program received most of the attention at the Summer Congress, USA Hockey also voted to reinstate “tag-up offsides” at the 14 and Under Bantam level and above for the 2011-12 season.

Tag-up offside is a variation of delayed offside. In a delayed offside situation, if all members of the offending team clear the defensive zone at the same time by making skate contact outside of the zone (including the blue line), then the delayed offside call is negated.

MICHIGAN RESIDENTS HONORED Three Michigan residents were honored by USA Hockey on June 8 at their awards dinner tabbed “A Night of Tribute.”

College Player of the Year Andy Miele (Grosse Pointe Woods), Disabled Athlete of the Year Alex Knapp (Shelby Township) and Bob Johnson Award honoree Ron Rolston (Ann Arbor) were all recognized during the USA Hockey Annual Congress.

Miele, a senior captain, helped lead Miami University to its first-ever Central Collegiate Hockey Association championship, while becoming the first RedHawk to capture the Hobey Baker Memorial Award as the nation’s top collegiate player. Miele led the nation in assists (47), points (71), and points-per-game average (1.82).

His 71 points in just 39 games were 11 more than any other player. The senior won the CCHA’s Player of the Year award after leading the league with 55 points in 28 league games – a league record.

After graduating from Eisenhower High School in Shelby Township, Knapp attended Michigan State University for two years before enlisting in the United States Army. On March 14, 2008, he and four other soldiers were severely injured in an explosion near Baghdad.

Following multiple setbacks and rehabilitation, Knapp decided to join his local sled hockey team, the Michigan Sled Dogs. Despite never having played organized hockey, Knapp quickly earned a tryout for the U.S. National Sled Hockey Team. He was then placed on the U.S. National Developmental Sled Hockey Team, where he participated in a camp with the squad in September 2010. The next month, Knapp began to experience chest pains during an exhibition practice with the Sled Dogs PHOTO BY TOM KIMMEL/USA HOCKEY

After much discussion and debate, USA Hockey’s Board of Directors passed all aspects of the Progressive Checking Skill Development Program rule proposal during its 2011 Annual Congress on June 11 in Colorado Springs, CO. The change means that beginning in the 2011-12 season legal body checking in games will begin at the Bantam age level (ages 13-14).

In addition, it tightens the standard of play for intimidation hits in the legal body checking age categories.

The program also encourages more legal body contact in the pre-body checking age categories by providing more training and support for coaches and referees.

“This program has taken several years of research and discussion to formulate,” said Ron DeGregorio, president of USA Hockey. “USA Hockey has the training and support elements in place for our coaches and referees.

Also beginning in 2011-12, each USA Hockey coach will be required to take an age-specific training module which will provide training information consistent with long-term athlete and childhood development principles for the age category the coach will be engaged with. Each module will include training information for body contact and checking.

Referee clinics in 2011-12 will focus on allowing more body contact consistent with the rules in pre-checking age categories and a tighter standard of play for roughing, cross-checking, boarding, charging, high-sticking and other intimidation hits in the legal body checking divisions.

“Parents should know that this program will better prepare their children for the physical part of the game. It should produce less risk since we will be training players in body contact at an earlier age in a progressive manner,” said DeGregorio.

USA Hockey will monitor the on-ice management of games with regular reports from local referee-in-chiefs, coach-in-chiefs and Association Coaching and Education (ACE) administrators to USA Hockey’s national office staff in Colorado Springs. The national governing body will also conduct research on the effect of the Progressive Checking Skill Development Program on risk reduction and skill development. The research will be published when completed.

The Board also passed rules that prohibit any check that comes in contact with the head or neck. The goal of this rule is to make the player more responsible for actions that make contact to the head or neck similar to rules now in place for stick infractions to the head.

Another goal of the Progressive Checking Skill Development Program is to enhance skill development consistent with the American Development Model (ADM) and its long-term athlete development principles.

“With the knowledge base we have on child development, this is without question the right way forward,”said Bret Hedican, former NHL player and two-time Olympian.

“Today is a significant one for our sport.”

Andy Miele (Grosse Pointe Woods) had a big seaon: the Miami captain won the Hobey Baker Award and was named USA Hockey’s College Player of the Year.

MichiganHockeyOnline.com

and he passed away shortly thereafter from a heart attack. After sacrificing his legs in service of his country, Knapp ultimately lost his life playing the sport he had eagerly adopted as his own.

The longest-tenured and most decorated coach in the history of USA Hockey’s National Team Development Program, Rolston guided U.S. squads to championships in three international tournaments in 2010-11, including a gold-medal performance at the 2011 International Ice Hockey Federation World Men’s U18 Championship.

Rolston, who had previously led the U.S. Men’s National Under-18 team to a gold medal in the 2005 and 2009 IIHF World Men’s U18 Championship and a silver medal at the 2007 event, helped Team USA collect its third straight world title in 2010-11.

Michigan Hockey

19

July 4, 2011 Volume 22 : Issue 2

20 Years/20 Issues Michigan Hockey Headlines

February 27th Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader premieres on Fox

January 3rd Former U.S. president Gerald Ford is laid to rest in Grand Rapids, Michigan

JANUARY

February 22nd The O.C. airs for the final time on Fox

FEBRUARY February 11th The Police reunite and perform for the first time in the 21st century

January 29th Barbaro, the 2006 Kentucky Derby winner, is euthanized after contracting laminitis

20

Michigan Hockey

The Plymouth Whalers ended the 2007 regular season with a 41-6-4 run, then swept Guelph in the first round of the playoffs, took out Kitchener in the conference semifinals in five games, beat London in five games in the conference finals and knocked off Sudbury in six games to claim the OHL title. The Whalers then went 1-3 at the Memorial Cup.

Compuware (12U Tier 1), Belle Tire (16U Tier 1) and the Michigan Jaguars (18U Tier II) all won USA Hockey National championships. Compuware beat the Colorado Thunderbirds in the final in Buffalo (NY). Belle Tire beat Shattuck-St. Mary’s in the national title game at Great Lakes Sports City. The Jaguars beat Phoenix, 2-1, to win the nationals at GLSC.

The Detroit Red Wings made Steve Yzerman’s the sixth player to have his number retired on Jan. 2 at Joe Louis Arena, joining the late Terry Sawchuk (1) and Sid Abel (12), plus Gordie Howe (9), Ted Lindsay (7) and Alex Delvecchio (10). Yzerman played with the Wings from 1983-2006 and is regarded as one of the great leaders in NHL history.

Anaheim rookie Drew Miller, a former Spartan, returned to East Lansing on July 5 with the Stanley Cup in tow. After passing up his final year at Michigan State to sign with the Ducks, Miller won the Cup in his first pro season. He took the Cup to Sparrow Hospital, the site of the Spartan Buddies program he helped start when he was college player.

May 5th Floyd Mayweather Jr., defeated Oscar De La Hoya in the highest grossing boxing match in history

March 25th Elton John plays Madison Square Garden for the 60th time to celbrate his 60th birthday

April 1st WrestleMania 23 takes place at Ford Field in Detroit, Michigan, setting an arena record of 80,103

MARCH March 27th Charlotte Winters, 109, last surviving American female veteran of World War I passes away

APRIL

June 24th Charles Lindberg , last surviving American who raised the flag in Iwo Jima, dies at the age of 86

MAY April 25th Bobby ‘Boris’ Pickett, 69, American one-hit wonder singer of Monster Mash dies

March 28th Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games marks the first time Sonic and Mario have ever appeared in a video game together MichiganHockeyOnline.com

JUNE June 10th The Sopranos ends

May 18th Deep sea explorers retrieve 17 tons of colonial era silver and gold coins with an estimated value of $500 million

June 17th Ice Road Truckers airs for the first time on The History Channel

Michigan Hockey 20th Season

Flashback: Art Ross Trophy Top NHL scorer Sidney Crosby - Pittsburgh

MLB Champion Boston Red Sox NFL Super Bowl winner Indianapolis Colts

Vezina trophy Best NHL Goaltender Martin Brodeur- N.J. Devils

NBA Champion San Antonio Spurs

Hart trophy - NHL MVP Sidney Crosby - Pittsburgh

NHL Stanley Cup winner Anaheim Ducks

Cost of a U.S. Stamp $0.41

OHL Champion Plymouth Whalers

Cost of a dozen Eggs $0.90

Memorial Cup Champion Vancouver Giants

Cost of a gallon of Milk $3.72

CCHA Champion Notre Dame

Cost of a gallon of Gas $2.25

NCAA Champion Michigan State

Top Television Show American Idol

Jack Adams awardTop NHL Coach Alain Vigneault - Vancouver

Academy Award’s Top Movie No Country for Old Men #1 Song Rehab-Amy Winehouse

#1 NHL Draft Pick Patrick Kane - Chicago

July 25th Jake, 12, American search and rescue dog for 9/11 attacks and Katrina loses battle with cancer

July 21st Final book of the Harry Potter series is released and sells over 11 million copies in first 24 hours

MSU WINS NCAA TITLE Michigan State won the 2007 NCAA national title and became the poster child for what can happen when team goals supersede individual goals.

The Spartans’character, grit and chemistry were on full display for four games in the NCAA Tournament. MSU defeated Boston University 5-1 and Notre Dame 2-1 in the Midwest Regional in Grand Rapids and followed it with a 4-2 victory over Maine in the NCAA semifinals and a dramatic 3-1 come-from-behind win over Boston College to win the NCAA championship on April 7 at the Scottrade Center in St. Louis.

“We’re a hard-working team that cared about each other all season,” junior defenseman Daniel Vukovic said. “We believed in ourselves, we went out and had fun, played great and won.”

Spartans’ coach Rick Comley said, “It’s amazing. Unreal. Every team that wins something gives up individual goals and puts team goals ahead of it, and that’s what happened with this team.”

The title was MSU’s third and first since 1986, while Comley, who guided Northern Michigan to the NCAA crown in 1991, is one of only three coaches to win championships at two different schools.

While Spartan players often said this season that they were a team without superstar players and it’s all about hard work and resiliency, that’s not really correct.

Jeff Lerg is definitely a superstar, a brilliant goaltender who is capable of stealing games or giving his team a chance to win. And MSU had a superstar captain in senior Chris Lawrence, a great leader and motivator and who is loved and respected by his teammates and coaches.

Lerg, a sophomore from Livonia, had an outstanding Frozen Four. In the semifinal win over Maine, he kept his team, which trailed 2-0 early, in the game through the first two periods before the Spartans tied it won it in the third with two unanswered goals.

In the title game, Lerg made several clutch saves with the Spartans trailing 1-0.

He stopped a breakaway by the Eagles’Nate Gerbe in the second period with a left

September 8th ‘Weird Al’ Yankovic performs his 1,000th live show at Idaho Falls

November 5th The Writers Guid of America goes on a strike that will last until February 12, 2008 October 14th Keeping up with the Kardashians begins

August 12th Merv Griffin, 82, American talk show host and creator of Jeopardy and Wheel of Fortune dies

JULY

AUGUST June 23rd Drew Carey is announced as the new host of The Price Is Right

July 1st The Concert for Diana takes place at Wembley Stadium in London

August 30th Big Ten Network launches

pad save. But his biggest stop was a highlight-reel glove save on Brian Boyle early in the third period.

On a 2-on-1 rush while shorthanded, the Eagles Joe Rooney slid the puck to Boyle in the slot on the right. But Lerg moved to his left to snag the shot and it ended up on ESPN’s Plays of the Day. That gave the Spartans a chance to come back and they did – on goals by Tim Kennedy on a breakaway to tie it with about 10 minutes left and Justin Abdelkader to win it with 18.9 seconds left. Abdelkader was named the Frozen Four most valuable player.

Lerg rebounded from uneven start and was back in top form starting in December.He was the MVP of the Midwest Regional, made the Frozen Four All-Tournament team and in four NCAA games, Lerg posted a 1.25 GAA and a .954 save percentage.

“This is what I’ve waited for my whole life. I’ve been too small for every level of hockey and I’ve been turned down by schools along the way,” he said. “I’m really fortunate Coach Comley gave me this opportunity.”

By Neil Koepke

SEPTEMBER

OCTOBER

December 19th Vladimir Putin, President of Russia, is announced as Time magazine’s 2007 person of the year

NOVEMBER

DECEMBER

November 14th High Speed 1 from London to the Channel Tunnel is opened to passengers

September 25th Halo 3 is released and grosses $170 million in a 24-hour period October 8th Track and field star Marion Jones surrenders her 5 Olympic medals she won in the 2000 Olympics after admitting to doping

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December 10th Led Zepplin reunite in London for their first show in 25 years

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MH Beat

PHOTO BY DAVE REGINEK/DIG PHOTO

Five Nations Tournament coming to Ann Arbor

BY PHILIP COLVIN

The home of the U.S. National Under 17 and Under 18 Teams is going international this summer.

The Ann Arbor Ice Cube will host the 2011 Five Nations Tournament from August 9-13 and will include Under 17 teams from Germany, Slovakia, Switzerland and the Czech Republic.

The U.S. entry is made up of players selected at the USA Hockey Select 17 Festival by festival coaches, directors and player personnel staff. While the team could include players that will play in USA Hockey’s National Team Development Program (NTDP), the majority of the squad will be comprised of players who play next season in junior and prep leagues across the country.

It’s a great chance to get another group of top players some international exposure,” said Scott Monaghan, Senior Director, Operations for the NTDP. Each day features games at 3 pm and 7 pm, with Team USA taking on Germany on Aug. 9, the Czechs on Aug. 10, the Slovaks on Aug. 12 and the Swiss on Aug. 13.

Two-game day passes are $10 for adults, $5 for children 5-12 years old. A ten-game tournament pass is $40 for adults and $20 for children.

TIER 1 ELITE LEAGUE BECOMES AFFILIATE OF USHL After much discussion, planning and consideration, the United States Hockey League (USHL) and the Tier 1 Elite League announced a national agreement in late May to make the Tier 1 Elite League the official youth hockey affiliate of the Chicago-based USHL, the nation’s Tier I junior league.

TheTier 1 Elite League is comprised of top-tier youth hockey organizations throughout the U.S. competing in multiple age groups – from Squirt all the way up to Midget Major levels.

In addition to its base of 19 existing teams, the league recently granted membership to the D.C. Capitals, Milwaukee Junior Admirals, Oakland (MI) Junior Grizzlies, and theThunder program based in Atlanta, Georgia.

Two youth programs affiliated with USHL Member Club ownership will also now join the expanding league, bringing the number of teams preparing for the 2011-12 season to 25. The Rocky Mountain RoughRiders program, based in

Westminster, Colorado, is operated by Tony Sdao, owner of the Cedar Rapids RoughRiders. The team will open play this upcoming season along with the Las Vegas Storm, operated

by Kirk Brooks, the owner of the USHL’s Tri-City Storm.

In the initial phase of the agreement, the USHL will bring its marketing, public relations, player development and organizational assets to the Tier 1 Elite League, and will work with the league’s nationwide web of youth programs to develop enhanced standards of coaching, training, academic progress, cost controls, and stability – reflecting the standards observed by USHL Member Clubs.

The USHL will have a consistent presence at the Tier 1 Elite League’s schedule of national showcases, and the two organizations will enter into a planning phase for more and enhanced events.

“This represents the culmination of a lot of hard work with some of the most important development partners in youth hockey in the United States,” said USHL Commissioner Skip Prince. “As with any partnership of this potential magnitude, we want to walk before we run, and see where we can be most effective with each other – but as you can see, this represents not only a commitment by the USHL to elite youth hockey at the league level, but the direct participation of our owners in Tier 1 League competition.

“This is the most effective way we know to implement USA Hockey’s education-based development model at the elite level. We’re excited about what this can mean for the growth of hockey in the U.S.” The strength of the Tier 1 Elite League programs was reflected in the recent 2011 USHL Entry Draft, where 56 players were selected from the league’s programs, representing 26% of the 216 players drafted.

“The Tier 1 Elite Hockey League could not be more excited, as this affiliation has been in the planning stage for almost a year, said Larry Johnson, Commissioner of the Tier 1 Elite League. “Our goal is to move our players to the very best junior program in the United States, and this will improve our player’s chances to make that next step. A great number of our players move on to the USHL now but this should open a great opportunity for the parents and the players to learn what to expect and what is expected of them to move to this level.”

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Equipment Buyers Guide

Technology continues to help make skates lighter and better fitting

BY ALEX DIFILIPPO

Just like in other pieces of hockey equipment, new technologies have allowed skates to become more lightweight and form fitting, thus improving players speed and mobility.

“Skates have taken the most modern route as far as using the technology that’s available,”said Paul Boyer, the Detroit Red Wings equipment manager.“New skates are being made with composite materials, which are much lighter than plastic and leather.

The skate manufactures aren’t sparing anything and they are creating great skates.”

While protection is still important in skates, new options like Skate Fenders (see story on page 27) are allowing skate manufactures to focus on creating a lightweight product that provides great fit and feel for the player.

“I think skates and sticks are the two most important pieces of equipment for hockey players,” Boyer said. “The skates should fit like part of the body and be an extension of your leg. Wearing skates should feel like you are in bare feet.”

This year’s skate models raise the bar from previous models, most notably due to improvements in fit and the lightweight materials being used.

IMPROVED FIT Easton has long been known for creating some of the most advanced sticks on the market. However, the company is using what it learned while developing sticks to advance its new line of skates.

Easton’s newest skate model, the Synergy EQ50, was designed to eliminate the time and hassle of breaking in skates by utilizing carbon fiber, a material most often found in sticks.

“We’ve talked to kids and professional players and we’ve really realized how uncomfortable and difficult it can be to break in

skates,” said Chris Norqual, Easton’s director of skates. “We made a skate that’s easy to break in right out of the box and allows the player to be comfortable as soon as possible. It’s a hybrid skate that’s designed to make you faster by fitting better.”

The EQ50 is made with a fusion foam quarter, which makes the entire boot completely moldable after a few minutes in a skate oven.

“There are skates out there that limit how much you can mold because there are certain materials needed for the structure,”Norqual said.“But with our EQ50, every area of the skate is moldable, including the heel and ankle. It allows 360 degree customization and we’ve had really great comments about our fit in the new line.”

The new EQ line features five different models, with varying degrees of moldabiltiy.

“Since we launched our EQ50’s on April 1, we’ve really tried to get out there and put them on players’feet,”Norqual said.

“We aren’t the biggest brand in skates, but I think the EQ line is really going to keep the ball rolling.”

Reebok CCM has also focused on improved fit with their 11K Pump skate. Similar to Reebok’s widely popular pump basketball shoes, the 11K Pump Skate features a pump to eliminate the amount of air in the internal chamber of the skate, thus eliminating natural gaps around the ankle and providing a customized fit.

Reebok uses a strategic integration of a lightweight core and durable outer shell to better protect the skater’s foot, and increase their skating ability at the same time.

Emphasis in the spinal zone supports the player’s Achilles tendon, which controls

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flexion and torsion. Meanwhile, the flexion zone and abrasion zones help with energy transfer from body to ice, and increase the durability of the skate.

EVEN LIGHTER Roughly 70 percent of the players in the National Hockey League wear Bauer skates. The large number of professionals who prefer Bauer may be a result of the company’s commitment to make one of the lightest boots on

the market.

This year, Bauer launched its Vapor line of skates, headlined by the Vapor APX. The APX boot is made with CURV Composite, which makes up the majority of skate boot and results in the lightest Vapor skate Bauer has produced.

“Reductions in weight have a direct relationship to skating efficiency and energy saved throughout the game,” said Keith Duffy, Bauer’s senior category manager for skates.

“In developing a new line of skates, Bauer spends a tremendous amount of time talking to our core customer to ensure the projects and technologies we are working on will not only benefit the player, but are desired by the player.”

Along with a lightweight boot, the Vapor APX also features the TUUK LS Fusion steel blade, which is 27 percent lighter than Bauer’s LS2 stainless steel blade, previously the lightest in the industry.

While Bauer prides itself on the number of professionals wearing their skates, they provide a wide-range of products designed for players at all levels of the game.

“We focus on innovation and technologies that will help players perform better and for their specific fit and skating style,” Duffy said. “We have also become quite proficient at providing a very light weight elite skate that maintains all the structural support and durability demanded by those playing at the game’s highest level.”

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Equipment Buyers Guide

July 4, 2011 Volume 22 : Issue 2

Balance of feel and durability driving new stick designs

24

Michigan Hockey

CCM U + CRAZY LIGHT

WARRIOR WIDOW

BAUER SUPREME TOTALONE

BY MARK BURNS

Year after year stick manufacturers strive to produce a product that is light and has a great feel. In 2011, stick makers have come another step closer to creating the “model” stick for the modern era.

In an effort to combine light weight, feel and also provide the added toughness for the rigors of such a demanding sport, stick manufacturers are implementing high density foams, carbon fibers and other technological advancements to give players the best stick possible.

“The core demographic - the 15-year-old crazed hockey kid, the kid who is playing travel hockey, summer hockey and going to camps - he lives and breathes the game,” said Mike Mountain, Easton’s director of sticks and blades. “You get to know him, and you understand what he’s looking for in a stick - what he’s happy about, what he’s disappointed with.”

CCM’s U+ Crazy Light has a shaft made of aerial grade carbon, and at 425 grams, is one of the lightest sticks available. Players can select from a variety of models, patterns and flexes, and the stick includes the company’s True Spear technology, with the blade featuring Dual Bridge technology to maximize accuracy.

If you like a little extra weight, there is the U+ Crazy Light’s big brother, the U+ Crazy Strong. Similarly constructed and geometrically shaped as the U+ Crazy Light, the U+ CS offers multiple layers of resistant carbon fibers to provide added strength.

Among the NHLers using these new pieces of technology are San Jose’s Joe Thornton and Alexander Ovechkin of the Washington Capitals.

Bauer has kept its Supreme TotalOne model on the market as its signature weapon of choice. With a “minimum effort, maximum output”’ philosophy, the TotalOne is geared toward players looking to unload a heavy shot without having to exert a huge amount of energy.

“At Bauer, we feel we make the most technologically advanced and best performing sticks in the industry,” said Evan Baker, Bauer’s category manager for sticks. “The feedback about our sticks from hockey players around the world has been nothing more than glowing and we feel like we can continue to push the envelope to impress them and keep coming them back to Bauer.”

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The TotalOne blade is composed of a Dual Density Aero Foam for a softer feel when a player is corralling the puck in traffic or receiving a cross-ice pass at top speed through the neutral zone.

While power is a heightened emphasis with the TotalOne, the two inserted pieces of foam minimize the amount of puck deflection off the blade as well as give the TotalOne an improved, balanced feel.

“Some guys like a crisper blade feel, while others like a softer feeling blade with more energy absorption,” Baker said. “Either way, what the player is trying to maximize is their ability to know where the puck is on their blade at all times and have the ability to confidently get off a quick shot or pass.”

Baker also said that Bauer will be releasing a new Vapor family of products, and changes to the colors of the current Supreme sticks.

“Bauer’s two premier sticks currently in the line are the Vapor X:60, out since October 2009, and the Supreme TotalOne that was launched in October of 2010,” Baker said. “Both sticks incorporate specific flex profiles for the needs of the different types of shooters in the game as well as a very specific blade core material and shaft shape to best work in coordination with that flex profile.”

Easton’s Mountain believes that a stick’s pattern and flex are two main components that players examine when deciding on purchasing a new stick.

Following the introduction of the Stealth S19 in 2010, Easton will launch a revamped model this October called the Stealth RS. Built after feedback from professional players as well as a handful of amateurs, the RS’ goal is to be one of the most accurate sticks on the market.

With “incredible balance” according to Mountain, the Stealth RS is the “ultimate sniper stick.”

“When we talk to kids, we ask them a simple question. ‘What goes through your mind when the puck hits your tape and you’ve got a shot on goal?’ You hear, ‘Don’t miss,’ ” Mountain said.

In addition to the Stealth, Easton’s Super Tough model has proved popular with players all across the age spectrum.

“The ST is just one of those products that has a loyal following,” Mountain said.

With resin transfer modeling in the blade, the puck has a softer feel on the center of the blade and will stay on the blade longer during a player’s shooting motion.

Mountain added, it’s “the most durable stick on the market.”

The Widow, Warrior’s new top of the line stick, features a ‘true-1’ seamless construction, and their ‘Dagger Taper Technology’, which gives the shooter a 12-inch flex from the blade to the shaft, creating a lower kick point.

Warrior also found that mix between lightness and feel with the Dolomite Spyne.

Warrior’s research and development team reinforced the heel of the stick with highdensity foam, giving the Dolomite Spyne added durability. Additionally, a newlyimproved grip on the shaft allows for easier movement when releasing a pass or shot.

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25

Equipment Buyers Guide

July 4, 2011 Volume 22 : Issue 2

Equipment makers spearheading innovations to make the game safer

companies produce more than 11 million helmets a year.

“The beauty of it is that we can kind of take the technologies from the different sports and then start to implement them into what works for us,” Serpa said. “There’s a lot of sharing of technologies. That will allow us to make better hockey helmets in the future.”

BY LARRY O’CONNOR

NECK ON DOWN

Consider the shear plastic contraption that NHL centerman Red Berenson wore during a majority of his 17-year pro career. The iconic CCM-branded head piece merely consisted of a pliable plastic outer shell adorned with a thin foam liner inside.

“That was a good little helmet,”Berenson said of his now comparatively prehistoric lid. “It saved me a number of times.”

Wistful recollections aside, Berenson’s iconic bucket pales in comparison to the Canadian company’s signature Vector helmet line of today.

Legacy companies like CCM and Bauer, as well as newer equipment suppliers Reebok and Easton, are spearheading innovation to make the game safer from head to toe.

However, the rash of concussions on the amateur and pro level has shone a glaring spotlight on helmets. Headgear that players like Berenson once wore on a voluntary basis have come under increased scrutiny.

In the end, though, a helmet can only prevent the most serious of head injuries, product managers say.

“The expectation of a helmet is to protect and prevent against head injuries such as hematomas, skull fractures, contusions and lacerations,” said C.J. Ficek, Bauer product manager. “Mandatory certification testing must be done on all helmets to ensure they pass the relevant national standards. The main goal is to help prevent these types of focal head injuries from occurring.”

Concern over the alarming rise in concussions has led not only to modifications to protective headwear, but has prompted some retooling of shoulder and elbow pads.

For instance, Warren-based Warrior has incorporated a two-layer shock absorption system into its shoulder pads. The company is releasing new protective shoulder gear under its Franchise, Bonafide, Bully, Bentley, Koncept and Rukus product lines this season.

“There is usually a thin layer of high-density foam that sits between the outer shell and the plastic cap,” said Chris Jenkinson, Warrior product manager. “The idea is really just to diffuse a lot of the stinging blows that are taken in the head area.”

BUCKET BRIGADE The Bauer 9900 helmet is the Cadillac of the venerable hockey equipment supplier’s line. The helmet’s low profile and snug fit also appeals to players in terms of aesthetics and comfort. The updated version of the Bauer 9500 is 10 percent lighter than its predecessor and is the company’s first helmet to incorporate PORON XRD technology, which “is built to absorb maximum impact without adding stiff, constricting bulk,” Bauer’s Ficek said.

The CCM V 10 bears the hallmarks of a state-of-the-art helmet. The aerodynamic shell is designed for easily ventilation while allowing for an extended field of vision.

The Expanded Polypropolene (EPP) liner is complete with heat-activated memory foam, which enhances comfort and instills protection.

“Our Vector helmet has had amazing acceptance at the pro level,” said Reebok-CCM product manager Laura Gibson. “It’s a very safe and very comfortable helmet, but it also has a low-profile look.”

The Reebok 11K helmet touts a 5-Point Safety System, which incorporates high-impact resistance, repeated impact resistance, maximum travel extension (to fit a wide variety of head shapes and sizes), lightweight composite reinforcement and stable anchoring technology.

The 11K ensures a comfortable fit through its Microdial II technology, which eases pressure points and keeps the helmet in place. The 11K’s fit clips also allow for tool-free adjustments.

Easton S-19 Z-Shock debuted last season but remains the group’s signature helmet. The Z-Shock protective system absorbs impact through a combination of EPP foam and a singled-laminated polycarbonate structure.

“That’s the technology that we believe in,” said Terry Serpa, Easton Bell Sports product manager. “It’s what we’re basing future developments on.”

Easton Bell Sports includes renowned football helmet makers Riddell and bicycle headgear specialists Giro. Bell is famous for its motorcycle helmets. Combined, the

Easton’s Jeremy Doherty explains the conundrum faced by hockey equipment manufacturers when producing protective gear.

“Players are always looking to be lighter and faster,” the Easton product manager said. “It’s a challenge on our side to make the player lighter and faster while giving them the adequate amount of protection.”

In Easton’s case, that meant developing sling technology for its elite Synergy EQ30 and EQ50 shinpads, which cradle the leg and leave an opening between the shin and guard to make it less vulnerable to high velocity shots or wicked slashes.

“It actually gaps your leg from the actual shinpad,” Doherty said. “So on impact from a puck or a stick you have a sling in there that helps prevent impact.”

The Synergy line includes a calf wrap, which protects the lower hindleg.

Manufacturers have tried additional padding to shield the Achilles tendon from injury with little success.

“A lot of times players will remove that padding and it’s hard to get something into the back of the skate because of the extension,” Warrior’s Jenkinson said.

Warrior’s Franchise shin guard has been retooled with new knee and shin caps.

The anatomically shaped and vented guard also features a hyperlock kneecap system to minimize hypertextension.

The anti-microbial shinpad liner can also be removed for washing.

“We make sure we meet the three criteria: management of perspiration, anatomical shape and hyper extention protection,” Jenkinson said.

KEEPING THE CHICLETS IN CHECK Thanks to innovative mouthguards from companies like Shock Doctor and Pro-Tekt, the image of a hockey player’s gap-toothed grin is relegated to the past.

Shock Doctor’s custom mouth guard remains the industry standard for dental preservation.

Players buy a kit to make a dental impression, which is then sent back to Shock Doctor, where the mold is used to design a personalized mouthguard. The piece can be tailored to include the player’s name and even team colors.

The process takes about two weeks after the mold is returned to the company.

“The key to maximum mouthguard protection is fit and retention,” said Jay Turkbas, Shock Doctor vice president of product development. “The Shock Doctor custom mouthguard stays comfortably in place to keep athletes protected – without affecting their ability to breathe and speak normally.”

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Equipment Buyers Guide

Value, performance and more: Q & A with equipment industry leaders Michigan Hockey asked six hockey equipment industry leaders - Kevin Davis (Bauer Hockey President/CEO), Philippe Dubé (Reebok-CCM Hockey President/General Manager), Mike Mountain (Easton Director of Sticks & Blades), Chris Norqual, (Easton Director of Product Management), Jay Turkbas (Shock Doctor V.P. of Product Development) and Neil Wensley (Warrior Director of Marketing-Hockey) - four questions about the state of the industry in 2011: Michigan Hockey: What are the hockey equipment industry’s biggest challenges today and why?

DAVIS: “The biggest challenge we continue to face is making sure new participants have access to the sport.

While some regions have adequate facilities and opportunities to introduce newcomers to the sport, there are still several areas where access is limited. There also continues to be a misconception that in order to play hockey a player must play 50 or more games and travel across the country. As an industry we need to do a better job of promoting the existence and importance of house leagues and other opportunities for kids to start playing the sport simply for the fun of it.”

struggle to keep the registration numbers up.”

MH: What developments do you expect in hockey equipment will be most important and why?

DAVIS: “On the protective equipment side, we see a continued focus on making products lighter without sacrificing protection. In sticks, ultimate feel, balance and durability continue to be a focus for all manufacturers and as a company, we continue to explore new materials in order to deliver the best possible stick to our consumers. Helmet technology will continue to evolve and as the industry leader, we continue to push innovation in the helmet category in an effort to develop a helmet that is built to handle the impacts suffered during hockey. Finally, a trend we see is delivering a higher level performance at every price point.

In the past, the innovation and technology advancements were typically reserved only for the top few price points, but due to consumer demand, we are driving technology advancements throughout the entire line. It’s a key focus for us moving forward.”

DUBÉ: “Performance drives product brands and brands need to be true to their performance story. Hockey players are very loyal to brands that deliver on their performance promise. We at Reebok-CCM hockey pride ourselves in ensuring that our claims are justified and we continually strive to make hockey the best it can be for all levels of play.”

DUBÉ: “To provide value and the right performance products to new entrants in order to energize the game in the U.S.” MOUNTAIN AND NORQUAL: “To make safer products while improving the player’s experience. We have technologies that service both needs.

The challenge is ensuring that the player knows what the facts are so that he or she can get the right products tailored to his or her needs, not necessarily just the newest.”

TURKBAS: “Creating lightweight protective solutions that maintain and improve protection levels. Safety and performance that keep players on the ice and keep them playing.”

WENSLEY: “The industry’s biggest challenge continues to be the resources required by a family to play our sport.

Cost of ice time and registration and travel cost and time are the major factors that may deter a parent from introducing hockey to their child. USA Hockey and Hockey Canada have done a great job at exposing more kids to the game but, until the cost and time commitment are reduced, we’ll continue to

MOUNTAIN AND NORQUAL: “More minimal, explosive and protective designs and materials will allow players to get faster and play more confidently.”

TURKBAS: “New materials that allow for higher level of performance, either through body temperature management, increased but lightweight protection and new helmet developments that provide greater impact protection.”

WENSLEY: “Customization of equipment continues to be one of the hottest trends in the industry. As the industry leader in custom gloves and bags, we are excited to have recently introduced a custom stick program. Players can now go online and build their own custom, pro level stick. Flex, shaft shape and texture, blade pattern, 1000’s of graphic options and personalized name plate. The initial feedback has been overwhelming which would indicate that consumers will embrace this model for any product category.”

Concussions, player safety and more

Lightweight, form-fitting Skate Fenders fit over skate boots to provide added protection.

Skate Fenders designed to add lightweight protection

BY ALEX DIFILIPPO

As hockey skates become increasingly lightweight and form fitting, the gap between performance and protection is widening.

However, a new product developed by Michigan native Frank McClelland is designed to close the gap.

McClelland designed Skate Fenders, a lightweight piece of clear impact resistant polycarbonate plastic that fits around the outside of the skate and attaches with two Velcro straps to provide protection for the foot without sacrificing the fit of the boot.

“I’ve been playing hockey for 58 years and I’ve discovered there are few things worse than getting hit in the foot with a hard shot,” McClelland said. “Our main focus was to design a product to protect the feet of players and prevent injuries. So far, we’ve been really happy to see a reduction in foot injuries with players wearing our product and the feedback has been really positive.”

Skate Fenders have become commonplace in the NHL to add protection to the skate if a player is recovering from an injury.

However, last season the Skate Fenders were popping up on the skates of the professionals in a much more proactive manner.

More than half of the equipment managers in the NHL have Skate Fenders on hand, and five players on the Detroit Red Wings sported the new protective device for long stretches of last season.

“In this day and age, the skate doesn’t have to be made to protect,” said Paul Boyer, Red Wings equipment manager.

“Instead, the skates can be designed solely to perform. Then a Skate Fender can be added for protection and there will be nothing to worry about.”

Two years ago, after a first round of prototypes were not exactly what he was looking for, McClelland took his concept to Lake Superior State University’s Product Development Center (PDC) for assistance. The PDC’s project managers, along with LSSU engineering students, helped create a mold to produce the Skate Fenders.

“The priority was protection first and then we worked on it being lightweight and easy to put on and take off,” said McClelland.

At the end of this season, 17 NHL teams were using Skate Fenders. Because of the popularity at the professional ranks, mass production of Skate Fenders began last year in Gaylord.

While McClelland said he’s very happy with the advances in his product, he plans to continue working on new models to improve durability and fit. According to Skatefenders.com, the product is currently available in two models that fit most

MichiganHoc MichiganHockeyOnline.com

adult boot sizes and styles. The company is also considering a youth size that would fit sizes 3-5 and another to fit really big skates (size 12 and up).

And, importantly to McClelland, he said he will keep production in Michigan while exploring new ways to keep Skate Fenders affordable for players at all levels of the game.

Currently Skate Fenders are available at most hockey equipment stores in Michigan and online for $60-80 per pair.

“We’ve been distributing our product all over the world and the feedback has been very well received from professional and youth players,” McClelland said. “It’s still a new product and we are trying to catch up with the demand and make them as available as possible.”

WARRIOR HOCKEY ACQUIRES SMITH HOCKEY, INC. In May,Warren-basedWarrior Hockey acquired Smith Hockey Company, Inc., a leading niche player in the goalie protective category for the past nine years. Pete Smith, company founder and one of the most highly respected and influential product developers within the Goalie Protective category during the last 20 years, will join the Warrior Hockey team to lead its Global Goalie Protective Category as Strategic Business Unit Manager.

“Pete has been a visionary in the goalie category for many years and his fingerprints can be found on many of the most popular pads in the marketplace today. He has built a very successful direct to consumer business strictly through word of mouth and outstanding product and we are very fortunate to have him join our team and bring his experience to our goalie protective business”, says Lorrie Owen-Turner, General Manager for Warrior Hockey.

Warrior Hockey is excited to bring Smith’s craftsmanship and innovative design to the masses. The “new” team is at work to bring goalies of all ages and skill levels game-changing goalie protective equipment. Through this new collaboration, Warrior plans to create a new industry standard in the goalie category.

“I am humbled by the incredible brand loyalty I have developed with my customer base during the last eight years,” said Smith.“The opportunity to joinWarrior Hockey and leverage their resources, commitment to building outstanding product, and their unique brand positioning is an exciting opportunity.

“The goalie protective category has been relatively stagnant and I believe this alignment with Warrior will provide the platform necessary to accelerate and commercialize innovative design and product ideas to help the brand become the #1 Goalie Protective Company in the world.”

Michigan Hockey

27

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MITEE A – 04 MA MI MAVERICKS John Fenech 248-798-4539 2004MAVS@comcast.net *PE PENDING JULY 10 MAHA VOTE Tues esday, July 12 6:15-7:05pm Wednnesday, July 13 6:15-7:05pm Tuesda day, July 19 6:30-7:20 6:30-7:20pm

MITE AA – 03 MA MAVERICKS Don Stone 586-596-8495 djstone11@comcast.net Tuesday, July 12 6:30-7:20pm Thursday, July 14 7:00-7:50pm

SQU QUIRT A - 02 MA MAVERICKS Seann Kolodge 586.469.11599 kolodgehockey@gmail.com dgehockey@gmail.com Saturday, ay, June 25 10:00-11:05am m Tuesday, June 28

6:15 7 6:15-7:20pm

PEE WEE A - 00 MA MAVERICKS C Soltltman Chris 586.630.6129 sooltmancm m@sbcglobal.net

586.291.8101 7:00-7:50pm 7:15-8:05pm 7:15-8:05pm

HOUSE B PROGRAM DIVISIONS OFFERED

PEE WEE AA - 999 MA MAVERICKS Kev evin Potter 248.990.2987 kppo potter@comcast.net

Mite-players born in 2003 and younger Squirt-players born in 2002 & 2001 all games played in house Pee Wee-players born in 2000 & 1999 Bantam-players born in 1997 & 1998

BANTA TAM A - 98 MA MAVERICKS B Fluennt Bob rflfluent@co comcast.net

586.484.42499

BAANT NTAM TAM AAA - 97 MA MAVERICKS Mar ark Alexandrowicz 586.823.7441 male lexandrowicz@comcast.net

SQUIRT AA - 01 MA MAVERICKS Craig Lisko 01mavs@gmail.com 01 Frid iday, July 8 Monnday, July 11 Wednnesday, July 13

REGISTER NOW

INQUIRE WITH COACH FOR ANY OPENINGS

LEARN TO PLAY A HOCKEY PROGRAM DIVISIONS OFFERED Mighty Mites: players ages 4 – 6 Recommended as a first step for beginning hockey players who have attended a Learn to Skate class Mini Mites: players aged 5 – 9 Introduction to team play with practice sessions and small sided games

Program runs 25 weeks from September through March. No skates during holiday breaks! Great schedule and excellent ice times. Commitment to the development of skills, knowledge of the game and FUN! Each player receives: jersey/socks, year end party and trophy. Sessions run by Suburban instructional staff with the help of parent volunteers

Limited enrollment! Remainder fees billed in installments.

7330 Highland Road Waterford, MI 48327 Phone: (248) 666-2090 Email: information@lakelandhockey.org —————————For general questions regarding registration please contact league registrar Brenda Soderlund at

Lakeland Hockey Association offers programs to fit all levels x Learn to Skate x House x Travel Professional Instructor Program available to all players and coaches.

registrar@lakelandhockey.org

or phone (248) 622-1719 —————————-

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

8U Program — Bring a Friend Small team sizes Jamborees

248-666-2090 WWW.LAKELANDHOCKEY.ORG

For the latest news and events please visit us on the web at www.lakelandhockey.org

2011 FALL TRAVEL TRYOUTS New Team

2003 Hawks

2000 Falcons

2001 Hawks

New Team

July 14, 2011

6:00 PM—7:30 PM

July 14, 2011

7:00 PM—8:30 PM

July 7, 2011

7:00 PM—8:30 PM

July 15, 2011

5:00 PM—6:30 PM

July 17, 2011

6:00 PM—7:30 PM

July 9, 2011

4:30 PM—6:00 PM

July 17, 2011

12:00 PM—1:30 PM

July 19, 2011

7:30 PM—9:00 PM

July 16, 2011

4:30 PM—6:00 PM

Coach: Brad Martin (248) 804-5158

2002 Hawks

Coach: Kirk Grant (248) 755-2896

2001 Falcons

New Team

July 12, 2011

7:30 PM—9:00 PM

July 20, 2011

6:00 PM—7:30 PM

July 15, 2011

6:00 PM—7:30 PM

July 21, 2011

6:00 PM—7:30 PM

July 22, 2011

7:30 PM—9:00 PM

July 23, 2011

4:30 PM—6:00 PM

Coach: Keith Suggs (248) 763-1499

Coach: Jeff Seyka (810) 533-0979

Coach: Mike LaBlanc (313) 304-6484

1999 Hawks LCAHL 2011 Smythe Champions July 13, 2011

7:30 PM—9:00 PM

July 21, 2011

7:30 PM—9:00 PM

July 22, 2011

6:00 PM—7:30 PM

Non parent coach: Jeff Clark

1998 Hawks LCAHL 2011 Smythe Champions July 15, 2011

8:30 PM—10:00 PM

July 17, 2011

1:00 PM—2:30 PM

July 19, 2011

9:00 PM—10:30 PM

July 21, 2011

9:00 PM—10:30 PM

July 23, 2011

1:00 PM—2:30 PM

July 24, 2011

1:00 PM—2:30 PM

Coach: Hugh Pobur (248) 672-3777

1997 Hawks Check website for latest information.

email: dmswat@sbcglobal.net

2002 Falcons

New Team

2000 Hawks

August 4, 2011

6:00 PM —7:30 PM

June 5, 2011

11:00 AM—12:30 PM

August 7, 2011

11:30 AM — 1:00 PM

June 8, 2011

7:30 PM—8:30 PM

Coach: Craig Iverson (248) 996-4843 Coach: Brian Dicker (248) 391-9007

PLEASE VISIT WWW.LAKELANDHOCKEY.ORG FOR ANY LAST MINUTE SCHEDULE CHANGES

1999 Falcons

New Team

July 23, 2011

10:00 AM—11:30 AM

July 24, 2011

11:30 AM—1:00 PM

July 25, 2011

6:00 PM—7:30 PM

Coach: Bob Sereno (248) 396-8523

All tryouts $15 per skate, goalies are free ——— Lakeland Ice Arena 7330 Highland Rd Waterford, MI 48327

The Canton Victory Hockey Association is proud to announce the 2011/2012 coaching staff and fall tryout schedule: Victory Honda Tier II A & AA Travel Teams 04 Mite A July 14th, 2011 6:00-7:00pm July 19th, 2010 6:00-7:00pm July 21st, 2010 6:00-7:00pm Head Coach: Ron Wantuck email: rwantuck@aol.com 03 Mite AA July 22nd, 2011 6:30-8:00pm July 23rd, 2011 11:30-1:00pm July 26th, 2011 7:00-8:00pm Head Coach: Paul Goleniak Phone: 734-395-3169 email: paulg019@yahoo.com 02 Squirt A July 21st, 2011 6:00-7:00pm July 26th, 2011 6:00-7:00pm July 28th, 2011 6:00-7:00pm Head Coach: Don Massey Phone: 313-304-6199 email: drmassey@comcast.net 01 Squirt AA July 12th, 2011 6:00pm-7:30pm July 14th, 2011 7:30pm -9:00pm July 21st, 2011 7:00-8:30pm Head Coach: Joel Roach email: 01crush@comcast.net

00 Pee Wee A July 12th, 2011 8:00-9:30pm July 14th, 2011 6:00-7:30pm July 19th, 2011 7:00-8:30pm Head Coach: Larry Fuciarelli email: hockey2win2000@yahoo.com 99 Pee Wee AA Please contact: Head Coach Peter Lamourex email: tanjoceh@hotmail.com 98 Bantam A Please contact Head Coach Dane Barunzzini Phone: 734-262-2024 email: canton98@yahoo.com Open Skates on the following dates from 10-11:30 am 7-10, 7-17, 7-24, 7-31 97 Bantam AA July 14th – 8:30 – 10:00pm July 16th – 4:00-5:30pm July 17th – 1:00-2:30pm 96 Midget A Please contact Head Coach Greg Summerville 734-658-4329 Email: anniegreger@comcast.net Open Skates on the following dates from 8:00-9:30 pm 7-5, 7-19, 7-26

Canton Victory Hockey Association is also proud to announce the following house conditioning and draft skates.

Please visit www.cantonhockey.org to learn about lower fixed ice bills for the 2011/2012 season.

Conditioning Skates August 11th, 2011 Mite - 6:00- 7:00 pm Squirt - 7:00 - 8:00 pm Pee Wee - 8:00 - 9:00 pm Bantam/Midget - 9:00-10:00 pm Conditioning Skates August 16th, 2011 Mite - 6:00-7:00 pm Squirt - 7:00 - 8:00 pm Pee Wee - 8:00 - 9:00 pm Bantam/Midget - 9:00-10:00 pm House Draft Skate August 20th, 2011 Mite - 12:00-1:00 pm Squirt - 1:00 -2:00 pm Pee Wee - 2:00-3:00 pm Bantam/Midget - 3:00-4:00 pm

Redford Township Hockey Association Fall Tryouts

www.redfordkings.com 97 REDFORD KINGS

2000 REDFORD KINGS

FRI 07/15 6:30-7:30pm

Head Coach: Roman Andrys

FRI 07/29 6:00-7:00pm

Associate Head Coach: Brian Song

FRI 08/05 6:30-7:30pm

For more info email coach@redfordkings.com

SUN 08/14 11:30am-12:30pm

All Kings tryouts are @ Cranbrook

Head Coach: Roman Andrys Associate Head Coach: Terry Lucas For more info email coach@redfordkings.com All Kings tryouts are @ Cranbrook

2002 REDFORD KINGS FRI 07/15 5:30-6:30pm FRI 07/22 6:00-7:00pm

98 REDFORD KINGS

FRI 08/05 5:30-6:30pm SUN 08/14 10:30-11:30am

Head Coach: Roman Andrys

Head Coach: Roman Andrys

Associate Head Coach: Dan Israel

Associate Head Coach: Kevin Shannon

For more info email coach@redfordkings.com

for more info email coach@redfordkings.com

All Kings tryouts are @ Cranbrook

All Kings tryouts are @ Cranbrook

99 REDFORD KINGS FRI 07/22 7:00-8:00pm SUN 07/24 10:30-11:30am Head Coach: Roman Andrys Associate head coach: Alan Sasson for more info email coach@redfordkings.com All Kings tryouts are @ Cranbrook

98 BANTAM A ROYALS SUN 7/10 6:30- 8:00 PM TUES 7/12 7:00- 8:00 PM FRI 7/15 8:00- 9:30 PM $15 for 1 1/2 hour skates $10 for 1 hour Contact: Stan Racinski (248) 476-2993 Racinskis@sbcglobal.net All tryouts @ Farmington Hills Ice Arena

99 PEE WEE AA REDFORD ROYALS WED 06/29 5:30-7:00pm MON 07/11 5:30-7:00pm THUR 07/14 5:30-7:00pm $15 a skate, Contact Head Coach Brian Judd @whitnsam@sbcglobal.net with questions Former NHL players will be helping out with the on/off ice practices for the season.

All tryouts @ Novi Ice Arena

2000 REDFORD ROYALS FRI 07/15 6:30-8:00pm WEDS 07/20 5:30-7:00pm TUES 07/26 7:00-8:30pm Contact Head Coach Jim Miller email 2kredfordroyals@gmail.com or call 734-788-9905 All tryouts @ Novi Ice Arena

ICEBREAKERS TRYOUTS INFO - ALL SKATES AT SUBURBAN ICE FARMINGTON HILLS

GIRLS FALL TEAM TRYOUTS

www.michiganicebreakers.com

HAVE HA AV AV VE E FUN FU UN - PLAY PLA PL LAY AY HOCKEY HOC OC OCKEY CK KEY CLINICS KEY CLINIC LI ICS LINICS CS

FREE

AUG. 20 10:30 - 11:30 AM GIRLS ONLY AUG. 20 12:30 - 1:30 PM 8 & UNDER AUG. 27 10:30 - 11:30 AM ALL AGES

MUST PRE-REGISTER R / NEW PLAYERS ONLY

2001 Stars 2003 Stars Coach: Todd Waldo twaldo16@comcast.net

TM

2002 Stars Coach: Vicki Crimmins vcrimmins9@comcast.net

Coach: Cal McGowan cmcgowan@suburbanice.com 7/12 – 7:30-9:00 PM

99 Stars Coach: Mike McCullough mjmcc123@msn.com

7/16 – 6:30-8:00 PM

98 Stars

7/18 – 7:00-8:30 PM

Coach: Steve Wood swood@cooperstandard.com

2000 Stars

97 Stars

Contact: Cal McGowan cmcgowan@suburbanice.com

Coach: Mike McCullough mjmcc123@msn.com

7/13 – 7:30-9:00 PM 7/16 – 5:00-6:30 PM 7/19 – 7:00-8:30 PM

Midget A Coach : Dan Cesarz 313-212-5836

2011 Fall Travel Tryouts For General BHA Travel Hockey Information contact Tim Opie, BHA Travel Director 248-822-0020 2004 Birmingham Rangers Steve Carrel, (248-495-4012), scarrel8@gmail.com John Duncan ,(248) 645-7240, j_duncan@ml.com 2003 Birmingham Rangers “2011 Little Caesars Adams Playoff Finalist” Chris Jelinek , (248) 303-8813, jilljelinek@yahoo.com Tryouts: July 21st 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM @ Cranbrook July 28th 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM @ Cranbrook 2002 Birmingham Rangers Bryan Smolinski, (248) 721-0601, bsmolin779@aol.com Tryouts: July 18th 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM @ Cranbrook July 23rd 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM @ Cranbrook July 25th 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM@ Cranbrook 2001 Birmingham Rangers Jeff Wardlow, (248) 821-8001, jeffwardlow@mac.com Paul Siver, (248) 302-3304 Tryouts: July 11th 6:30 PM - 7:50 PM @ Cranbrook July 18th 6:30 PM - 7:50 PM @ Cranbrook July 25th 6:30 PM - 7:50 PM @ (If needed) 2000 Birmingham Rangers “2011 Little Ceasars Norris Division (Yzerman) Finalist” Todd Antenucci , (248) 321-7222, tcantenucci@comcast.net 2000 Birmingham Travel Chris Kantgias, (586) 596-8722, ckantgias@dietechna.com Tim Galligan, (248) 761-4884, galligan@galliganpllc.com Coaches : Fred Perlini, Vicki Perlini, Tim Galligan, Jerry Reinhart

1998 Birmingham Liberty Paul Apap, (248) 464-4207, pca@apapeverly.com Tryouts: July 23rd 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM @ Cranbrook July 24th 2:30 PM - 4:00 PM @ Cranbrook 1997 Birmingham Rangers: Jerry Reinhart (248) 705-5050, jerry@trg11.com Spring Coaches: Bill Christie, (H.C. Bro. Rice JV), Jerry Reinhart, Jack Leavy Tryouts: July 23rd 1:30 PM - -3:00 PM (Cond. Skate) @ Cranbrook July 24th 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM @ Cranbrook July 30th 1:30 PM – 3:00 PM @ Cranbrook July 31st 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM @ Cranbrook 1996 Birmingham Rangers Bruce Hulsher (248) 318-4842, hulsher@sbcglobal.net Dave Gentile, david.gentile@det.bowmanandbrooke.com 1995-96 Midget A Birmingham Rangers Spring/Fall (Ranked) Steve Bester, (248) 842-9580, sbester@educatedgarage.com Tryouts: July 20th 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM @ Cranbrook July 27th 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM @ Cranbrook August 3rd 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM @ Cranbrook 1994-93 Midget AA_Birmingham Rangers Spring/Fall (Ranked) Bruce Gilgallon , (248) 303-0051, brucegilgallon@yahoo.com Tryouts: July 26th 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM @ Cranbrook July 29th 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM @ Cranbrook July 31st 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM @ Cranbrook August 2nd 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM @ Cranbrook All skates $15. All positions open including goalie. Out of district openings available

Birmingham Rangers U10 and U12 Girl’s Hockey 1999 Birmingham Rangers Coach: Terry Brooks, (248) 765-0242, tbrooks16@gmail.com “2011 Little Caesars Smythe Division Finals” Manager: Robert McMurray, (248) 701-5271, rmcmurr@us.ibm.com Paul Dunbar, bham99rangers@aol.com Coaches: Anatoliy Buliga & Petr Tichy Tryouts: June 27th 8:30 PM – 10:00 PM @Troy Sports July 15th 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM @ Cranbrook July 17th 1:45 PM – 3:15 PM @ Cranbrook * Make ups upon request – call to inquire e2 Hockey Training, 1998 Birmingham Rangers 248-346-4506 John Duncan, (248) 514-5229, goalieblock1@gmail.com Anatoliy Buliga and Petr Tiche Tryouts: Goalie Coach: Matt Gadladge, July 12th 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM @ Cranbrook (*X-Ice Tournament Style Skate) www.e2hockey.com mjggoalie@yahoo.com th July 16 10:30 AM– 12:00 PM @ Cranbrook (*X-Ice Tournament Style Skate) th July 19 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM @ Cranbrook July 23rd 10:30 AM– 12:00 PM @ Cranbrook * RSVP Required

Junior Hockey

July 4, 2011 Volume 22 : Issue 2

Plymouth forward Stefan Noesen was selected 21st overall in the 2011 NHL Draft by Ottawa.

OPEN HOUSE PM FREE Hott Dogs from 6-8 limit one pe p r cu ust s om omer

Four Whalers and four Spirit see NHL dreams get g closer

BY MATT MACKINDER

Two seasons ago in Plymouth, Stefan Noesen was a sparingly used rookie forward. Last year he suddenly found himself as a top offensive force for the Whalers and a frequent target of NHL scouts at Compuware Arena.

On June 24 Noesen found himself on stage at the NHL Entry Draft in St. Paul, Minn. as a first round pick of Ottawa.

“It’s always been a dream of mine to get drafted,” Noesen said, who went 21st overall to the Senators. “It’s been a fun year and a lot has happened. I’m excited for this next step.”

Noesen said his breakthrough 34-goal year in 2010-11 with the Whalers (after three in ’09-10), was more than numbers and more what Whalers coach-GM Mike Vellucci instilled in the 18-year-old from Plano, Tex. “My confidence shot up, but it all had to do with what Mike brought,” said Noesen. “He expected a lot out of me and when I started to produce, I was able to have his confidence and it too brought mine up.”

Noesen attended the NHL Combine in Toronto before the draft and realized that maybe the NHL wasn’t a far-fetched dream after all. “(The Combine) was tougher than I expected,”noted Noesen.

“I had 28 different teams that wanted to talk to me and I believe 30 interviews total, so it was a long tough process, but it was fun. Teams would tell me that they like my work ethic along with my skill set on the ice.”

Forward Rickard Rakell, a linemate of Noesen’s much of last year, was picked by the Anaheim Ducks at No. 30.

The Toronto Maple Leafs had the 30th pick, but traded it and the 39th pick to Anaheim during the first round in exchange for the 22nd overall selection. Anaheim executive VP Bob Murray said trading down was a move that paid off in spades. “(Rakell is) a good two-way player and a smart player and he can play center or wing. We’re very happy he was still there at 30,” said Murray.

In the fifth round (123rd overall), the Colorado Avalanche snagged Plymouth forward Garrett Meurs and then goalie Matt Mahalak went to the Carolina Hurricanes in the sixth round with the 163rd overall pick.

“He’ll be given lots of time to develop,” Carolina director of amateur scouting Tony MacDonald told CanesHockey.com.“We feel we’ve got a pretty good stable of young goalies and this

34

Michigan Hockey

FRE EE ‘Giive Hocke ey a Try ’ clinic from 6-7 l mi li mite t d spotts av vai aila abl b e, e, cal alll to regisste terr

FREE Open Skating and Lessons from 5-6 6:30 Figurre Skating Exhibition fro om 6:3 30-7

man gives us some depth at that position. We’re pretty happy to have him. He’s a big kid, and as he gets stronger, he’s a pretty formidable presence when people are coming down the wing and looking at that big body.”

The four draft picks for Plymouth were the most since 2005 when James Neal, Dan Collins, Ondrej Otcenas and Ryan McGinnis were selected.

WHALERS SIGN ILLINOIS FORWARD TheWhalers signed 16-year-old left wing DannyVanderwiel, their eighth round (144th overall) pick in the 2011 OHL draft, on June 22.

Vanderwiel, who goes 5-foot-11 and 199 pounds, scored 10 goals and 21 points in 33 games for the Team Illinois U-16s last season.

“Our scouts have a history of finding good players later in the draft and we really like what we’ve seen from Danny so far,” said Vellucci. “He’s strong on his skates and competes hard.”

“Danny’s a good skater who plays a physical game in all areas of the rink,”added Plymouth assistant GM Brian Sommariva. “He provides grit and has a skill set that we like in all of our players.”

FREE Stiickss and Pucks and Ho ockey Instrrucction frrom 7-9 Open Registration for all pro ogramss Snowplow Sa am an d Subu urban Ste eve in attendancce Picture es with h Zamboni during Open Skating 5DIIOH 3UL]HV 3 3UR 6 6KRS S 6 6SHFLDOV

SAGINAW NOTEBOOK The Saginaw Spirit had a franchise-high four players selected at the NHL entry draft. Forward Brandon Saad was selected by the Chicago Blackhawks in the second round, (43rd overall), the Florida Panthers chose forward Vincent Trocheck in the third round, (64th overall) and the Boston Bruins picked forward Anthony Camara in the same round (81st overall).

In addition, Josh Shalla was a fourth round (94th overall) selection by the Nashville Predators. Saginaw expects Saad, Trocheck and Camara to return for next season while Shalla, an overage candidate, most likely will turn pro… A couple of former Spirit players also heard their names called. Mark Scheifele, who was traded to the Barrie Colts last season for goaltender Mavric Parks, was selected seventh overall by the new Winnipeg Jets and Alex Lepkowski went 137th overall to the Buffalo Sabres… Saginaw traded center Ray Huether to Barrie for a third round pick in the 2014 OHL priority draft.

Huether saw action in seven games this past season for Saginaw and had one assist.

With a file from Carl Chimenti

MichiganHockeyOnline.com

42400 NICK LIDSTROM DR. NOVI, MI 48375

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248.347.1010 noviicearena.com

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College Hockey

Wiseman named new assistant at Michigan; Muckalt joins MTU staff After Mel Pearson took the head coaching job at Michigan Tech, Michigan head coach Red Berenson tabbed a former player to take his spot on the Wolverines staff.

On June 9, Michigan hired assistant coach Brian Wiseman, a four-year letter winner (1991-94) and former Hobey Baker Award finalist under Berenson. Last season, Wiseman was an assistant coach for the Houston Aeros of the American Hockey League. “I am looking forward to getting back to Michigan and the Ann Arbor community,� Wiseman said. “It a place that is special to me. I can’t wait to get up there and get to work.�

In his lone year with the Aeros, Wiseman helped Houston finish second in the AHL’s West Division and make the Calder Cup final. Before coming to Houston, Wiseman served as an assistant coach at Princeton University in 2003-04, and as video coach for the Dallas Stars in 2002-03.

Wiseman played in 166 games at Michigan and recorded 348 points – good for third place all-time in the Wolverines’ record book. He recorded 164 assists – good for second place in U-M history – and he was named a Hobey Baker finalist as a senior captain in 1993-94 after posting 69 points.

Wiseman is one of only seven Wolverines to notch 50 assists in a single season.

Michigan’s new assistant coach was a member of the school’s first CCHA regular-season championship (199192), and first CCHA Tournament championship (1994). As a freshman, Wiseman was a member of the squad that started the Wolverines’ 21 consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances - a national record.

Wiseman also worked for two years as an administrative assistant for the Wolverines’ hockey team, from 2000-02. “I am looking forward to getting to know the current student-athletes and getting out on the road and developing relationships with the junior hockey coaches and identifying the next wave of talent to come through the university,�

Wiseman said.

Wiseman also brings professional experience to the Wolverines’ program. He was a 12th round selection of the New York Rangers in the 1991 NHL Draft, and appeared in three NHL games with the Toronto Maple Leafs in 1996-97.

In 446 career minor league games, he recorded 515 points and 145 goals. Wiseman was the IHL’s leading scorer and most valuable player for the Aeros, helping lead them to the Turner Cup. Wiseman earned a Bachelor of Science degree in physical

36

Michigan Hockey

PRE-SEASON CLINICS

education during his time at U-M. From 2005-10, he worked as an account manager for M-I SWACO, a Houston-based oil and gas supplier.

23996 Freeway Park Drive Farmington Hills, MI 48335

MUCKALT HEADS NORTH TO HOUGHTON Next season, multiple former Wolverines will lead the Michigan Tech Huskies.

New coach Mel Pearson announced that Bill Muckalt would be joining his staff as an assistant coach on June 10.

Muckalt spent four years playing for Pearson and Berenson in Ann Arbor and won two national championships in his time with the Wolverines. As a senior, he was named a Hobey Baker Award finalist and a first-team All-American, leading U-M to the 1998 NCAA title. “I am very excited to be a part of a program that has such a rich history,� Muckalt said. “The chance to work with Mel, who has had a big influence in my life both in hockey and personally, was a very easy choice. I have seen the commitment that the University administration has made to the hockey program, and I can’t wait to get started.�

Muckalt, a native of Surrey, British Columbia, played five seasons in the NHL after graduating from U-M with a degree in sports management and communications in 1998. In his rookie season with the Vancouver Canucks, he recorded 16 goals and 36 points in 73 games.

Last season Muckalt was the head coach of the New Mexico Mustangs, an expansion team in the Junior A North American Hockey League. He recruited, scouted and coached the team from behind the bench. The Mustangs, with a roster of 21 rookies, finished 19-35-4, but won 15 of their last 27 contests. “I had the opportunity to recruit and coach Bill, and he was an outstanding player,�Pearson said.“He has a great work ethic and tremendous passion for the game. His experience gives him a good network for recruiting and a keen eye for talent. Bill will be a great addition to our staff.�

Prior to coaching the Mustangs, Muckalt posted a 20-16-3 record behind the bench of the Valencia (California) Flyers of the Western States Hockey League. He also worked as the head instructor for Summer Hockey School at Ice Station Valencia during that time. Prior to that, Muckalt served as the assistant coach for Eastern Michigan University’s club team in 2006-07, and was promoted to head coach of the Eagles in 2007-08.

Michigan Tech also announced that Pearson would retain Damon Whitten as the team’s other full-time assistant coach.

MONDAY-THURSDAY, AUGUST 22-25, 2011 CLASS DESCRIPTION

TIME

QUICKK & FAST .............................................................. 12-1:30pm SHOOT TO SCORE ...................................................... 1:30-3pm OUTSIDE EDGES ......................................................... 12-1:30pm BODY CONTACT.......................................................... 1:30-3pm BACKWARD SKATING ................................................ 12-1:30pm STICKHANDLING & PUCK CONTROL........................... 1:30-3pm DEFENSE CLINIC ......................................................... 12-1:30pm PLAYMAKER ............................................................... 1:30-3pm

DAY

AGES

Mon Mon Tues Tues Wed Wed Thur Thur

6 & up 6 & up 6 & up 8 -12 9 & up 6 & up 9 & up 9 & up

54755 Broughton Rd Macomb, MI 48042

MONDAY - TUESDAY, AUGUST 22-23, 2011 CLASS DESCRIPTION

TIME

QUICK & FAST .......................................................................................2-3:30PM SHOOT TO SCORE....................................................... 3:30-5PM OUTSIDE EDGES ......................................................... 2-3:30PM STICKHANDLING & PUCK CONTROL........................... 3:30-5PM

TM

DAY

AGES

MON MON TUES TUES

6 & UP 6 & UP 6 & UP 11 & UP

52999 Dequindre Rochester, MI 48307

WEDNESDAY-THURSDAY, AUGUST 24-25, 2011 CLASS DESCRIPTION

TIME

QUICK & FAST ........................................................... 12-1:30PM SHOOT TO SCORE....................................................... 1:30-3PM BODY CONTACT.......................................................... 3-4:30PM BACKWARD SKATING ................................................ 12-1:30PM STICKHANDLING & PUCK CONTROL........................... 1:30-3PM

DAY

AGES

WED WED WED THURS THURS

6 & UP 6 & UP 8-12 6 & UP 6 & UP

1403 Lexington Boulevard Royal Oak MI 48073

MONDAY - TUESDAY, AUGUST 29-30, 2011 CLASS DESCRIPTION

TIME

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Red Wings Insider

Size and skill are targeted at NHL Draft For once the Detroit Red Wings can be absolutely sure about one thing in assessing this year’s draft class.

It’s big, not only in terms of numbers, but size.

Making nine selections for the first time since 2005 when they grabbed Darren Helm, Justin Abdelkader and Jakub Kindl, theWings took only one player under six foot.

“Where we’ve been picking, to get skilled players, there has to be something missing,” said Wings assistant general manager Jim Nill, who runs Detroit’s draft table. “That something is usually size.

“We knew we needed to get bigger. We’ve talked a lot about it and it was a point of emphasis on that.”

Of course when you can get size with skill, it’s all the better.

That’s exactly what Detroit feels it got with its first selection when the Wings took six-foot-two, 187-pound winger Tomas Jurco (St. John’s Sea Dogs) with the 35th pick overall.

Jurco finished last season with 31 goals and 56 points in 60 games and was tied for the lead in goalscoring with four at the Memorial Cup tournament.

“He’s got high-end skill,” Nill said. “He’s going to end up being six-two, six-three and 210 pounds.

“We just love his skill. I think he got to us because he got a little buried on a great St. John’s team.”

Jurco is already a YouTube sensation for his highlight reel stickhandling and goals.

Jurco was compared to Marian Hossa by his St. John’s coach and former Red Wing sniper Gerard Gallant. However, Jurco lists Pavel Datsyuk among his favorite players and his dangling skills draw a certain comparison.

The Wings ended up with three second-round picks after making a deal with Ottawa. In return for Detroit’s 24th pick overall in the first round, the Sens shipped the 35th and 48th choices to the Wings.

After taking Jurco with the first of their three second-round picks, the Wings grabbed defensemen Xavier Ouellette (Montreal) and Ryan Sproul (Sault Ste. Marie).

PHOTO BY AARON BELL/OHL IMAGES

BY DAVE WADDELL

Detroit selected Slovakian forward Tomas Jurco of the Saint John Sea Dogs with their first pick in the 2011 NHL Draft.

Ouellette is six-foot, 174 pounds while Sproul is six-three, 175 pounds.

“Ouellette is a typical Red Wing,” Nill said. “He’s very good with the puck. He’s a smart player. He plays a real sound game. He’s got a real head for the game.”

Nill said Sproul is raw, but rapidly improving.

“He kept getting better and better and you like to see that,” Nill said. “He’s got a big shot.

“He scored the most goals by a defenseman in the OHL in the second half of the season other than (Windsor’s) Ryan Ellis.”

Detroit took five blue-liners in their nine picks.

“Where we’re picking, you always take the best player,” Nill said. “You can never have enough defensemen.”

The Wings also needed to replenish their pool of defensemen with Brendan

Smith and Jakub Kindl both looking decent bets to find regular employment in Detroit this season.

In the third round, Detroit took speedy Peterborough center Alan Quine (85th overall).

Quine was an eighth overall pick in the 2009 OHL, but it wasn’t until he was traded to Peterborough last season that he began blossom. He had 22 goals and 42 points in 50 games for the Petes.

“He has Helm-type speed,” Nill told Booth. “He’s on the puck, he’s tenacious.

He’s an energy player.”

The five-foot-eleven, 178-pound Quine is also the smallest player the Wings drafted.

The Wings took a bit of gamble with their fourth-round pick in taking Slovakian winger Marek Tvdron in the fourth round (115th overall).

The six-foot-two, 210-pound winger came over to play with Vancouver of the WHL. In 12 games he had six goals and 11 points before a severe shoulder injury ended his season.

“We had his shoulder checked out, so we know he’s okay,” Nill said. “We scouted him as an underager, so we got a real good look at him.

“We had decided if he was still there in the fourth round, he was too good to pass up. He’d have been a high second-round pick if he’d stayed healthy.”

In the fifth round, Detroit took forward Philippe Hudon, who was playing high school hockey in Connecticut and is bound for Cornell University next fall. The six-foot, 190-pound winger is a Quebec native.

The Wings final three selections were all defenseman of substantial size.

For the 17th straight year the Wings took a Swede in Mattias Backman (sixtwo, 169 pounds) in the sixth round. They followed that up with hulking six-four, 205-pound Richard Nedomlel. The Czech blue-liner played for Swift Current of the WHL last seven and thrives in the nasty stuff.

Detroit went back to Russia for the first time since 2004 for their final pick.

Six-foot-two, 183-pound Alexei Marchenko played for CSKA Moscow last season and is expected to be a member of the Russian World Junior Team this winter.

“Our Russian scouts know him well and he says he wants to come out in a year,” Nill said. “We feel we have the ability to get him (to North America) if we need to.

“He’s going to be a top pairing defenseman on the Russian World Junior team coming in as defending gold medalists.”

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