June 2014 nyhol

NY HOCKEY June 2014

VOLUME 3 ISSUE 8

ONLINE

Buffalo Awarded Two World Champoinship Tournaments Buffalo Player Heads to The Brick NYS Girls Head to USA Camps

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IN THIS ISSUE: Bowman Cup................34, 39, 40 Central News...............................16 East News.....................................23 East Photos..................................28 Heading to The Brick.................. 8 Kerr Honored..............................27 NHL Draft News............................ 4 New Franchises in NY...............15 North News..................................29 North Photos...............................30 On the Bench with Sedia.......... 5 Passion and Perseverance......10 Photo Page.... 41-42 PWorlds To Buffalo...........................................11 West News....................................33

Dear Readers, Well this is a light issue, everyone must be taking a short “vacation” from hockey.

NY Hockey Online’s staff will be doing just that and so we will be having a Summer issue rather than July and August issues.

In this issue Rob Sedia has returned with a updated column on “Bad Habits,” we have some major announcements that are positive for New York State and check out our photos from the NYS Tournament in March and the USA Nationals in April. We’ll be running lots of unpublished photos taken by Janet in upcoming issues. You never know when your son/daughter/team will be featured!

We’ll be back to our regular schedule with the September issue and all the news for the upcoming season.

If you have tryouts planned for August or September please send us your dates and we can run them on our website as well.

Organizations with tournaments coming in 2014-15, please think about advertising with us. This magazine goes statewide and we know from our travels that many organizations are looking to play in tournaments within an easy travel distance but outside their section. It’s a great opportunity to grow your tournament and for players and their families to see this wonderful State of New York and its scenic areas.

We’re asking all of you to send us your updated Board of Directors list with email addresses; and colleges and high schools please send the names and emails of your coaches and athletic directors. Everything can be sent to either Randy@nyhockeyonline.com (men’s and boy’s) or Janet@nyhockeyonline.com (women’s and girl’s).

Our thanks to all of you who have supported us these past three years.

Don’t forget to share this with all your hockey families and friends.

Sincerely, Randy Schultz Randy@nyhockeyonline.com NY Hockey Online Magazine

NY Hockey On-Line (E-Magazine) 3663 Irish Road Wilson, New York 14172 716-751-6524 nyhockeyonline@ nyhockeyonline.com Publisher &Managing Editor Randy Schultz Randy@nyhockeyonline.com Designer/Photographer Janet Schultz Janet@nyhockeyonline.com

Columnists Warren Kozireski, Wkozires@brockport.edu Janet Schultz Randy Schultz Rob Sedia Chuck Gridley Tom Barnett NY Hockey OnLine is an equal opportunity employer.

Contents 2012 NY Hockey Online All rights reserved NY Hockey OnLine is published monthly at no charge and can be accessed via the publication’s website www.nyhockeyonline.com

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Around the State / Page 4

By Warren Kozireski

Wkozires@brockport.edu

I

n many sports drafts, there are almost as many mock drafts by so-called experts as there are first round picks, but two New York born players born just two days apart in 1996—both products of the U.S. National Development Program and both committed to Boston College—are hoping projections are correct as they prepare for the NHL Entry Draft in Philadelphia June 27-28.

Alex Tuch of Baldwinsville and Sonny Milano from Massapequa are listed 17th and 24th respectively in The Hockey News 2014 Draft Preview.

After playing the 2011-12 season with the Syracuse Stars in Junior B, where he netted 44 goals and 101 points in just 40 games, Tuch headed for Ann Arbor, Michigan.

In two seasons competing in the USHL with the USNDTP, Tuch scored 17 goals with 25 assists over 64 games.

A power forward at 6’3” and 213 lb. Tuch also boasts one of the hardest shots in the draft. He helped Team USA win a gold medal at the 2013 U17 World Hockey Challenge in Canada.

Milano spent the 2010-11 season with the Long Island Gulls Under-16 team before playing 2011012 with the Cleveland Barons midgets where he had similar offensive statistics with 44 goals and 43 assists in 40 games.

In his two seasons with the USNDTP, Milano scored 24 goals with 37 assists in 63 games. At 6’0”, 183 lb. his game is more about speed and stickhandling.

If projections hold, both will be walking to the podium on the first night of the NHL draft and both will be selected by teams who made the playoffs this season.

The Buffalo Sabres have the second overall selection and also the possibility of fifth overall if the NY Islanders wait until next year to give up their selection from the Thomas Vanek trade.

The New York Rangers draft position was still in question depending on playoff results as of press time.

NHL Draft Report: Two NYer’s May Go in First Round

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On The Bench With Rob Sedia Five Game Changing Bad Habits

S

(Two Bad Habits Added!)

ince I have had the very fortunate opportunity to write columns for a few hockey publications, this particular article has been requested by more coaches, players, and parents than any other article(over 100 times!). I decided to rerun this article due to its popularity and add 2 additional bad habits that can negatively impact a team’s chances of success. I would also like to congratulate my players for their 40 wins and 5 championships this past season.

What an amazing group of young men who made a real commitment and worked their tails off all season - thank you for your dedication boys! I would also like to thank my staff, Jeremy Rossignolo and Dan Kuntz – your knowledge and dedication was instrumental, in the team’s success. You are both proof that it takes a team to build a team so thank you!

The dictionary defines the word habit as: an acquired behavior pattern regularly followed until it has become almost involuntary. This definition, as it relates to ice hockey, implies that “what we do in practice has a direct impact on how we play”. We practice much more than we play and practice is about repetition so it’s easy to see how good and bad habits form.

We must pay extra attention to some bad hockey habits that I call “game changers”.

On the Bench / Page 5 Bad Habit: The Fly By / Net

How often in a hockey game have you seen a scramble in front of the net and a crew of puck-hungry players battle for the puck as the intensity from the crowd starts to heighten? Moments like these can get pretty crazy and when the battle results in a goal the crowd can really go wild! Even though these are not the prettiest of goals (often referred to as “garbage goals”), they make up the lion’s share of lamp lighters. At a very young age, players need to create a habit of getting to the net and pouncing on rebounds. Coaches will often make this part of their pre-game and game time talk but do enough coaches make this part of their practice agendas?

Following shots and attacking the net is a pretty basic hockey tactic yet time and time again I watch players (at all levels) fly by the net when a teammate takes a shot or after they take a shot themselves. Most of the time they end up curling into the corner or behind the goal line allowing juicy rebounds to sit there until gobbled up by the opponent. The only way to score on a rebound is to be there, so creating a “follow, stop, jam” habit is critical. Unfortunately, most practice drills that include shooting promote the “fly by” simply because it is not recognized that it is happening. For example, I was watching a squirt team practice the other day and they were doing a great half ice drill that incorporated an open pivot, a direction change, receiving a pass and taking a shot. The coaching staff paid a great deal of attention to the pivots, direction changes, and passing yet allowed the players to “fly by” the net after EVERY shot! The number of rebounds left untouched, far surpassed any other shot result. Although this is just one example, this scenario happens all too often. Every time I see it happen during a game, I cringe and can’t help but wonder how many times this player did a “fly by” during practice!

It is my opinion that most coaches preach “go to the net” during games in an effort to maximize rebound opportunities but without constant reinforcement of this action during practice (where the most repetitions occur) the likelihood of compliance at game

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www.nyhockeyonline.com time is drastically reduced. If we refer back to the dictionary’s definition of the word habit, we can easily see how “fly bys” in practice can lead to a bad game time habit. It is not a coincidence that at the highest levels of the game, the number of goals scored as a result of rebounds make up the highest percentage of total goals scored (some sources show it to be as high as 75%). This tells us that the most talented and discipline players on the planet have the follow, stop, and jam habit. With limited space and defensive coverage in front of the net, scoring on a rebound requires good timing, quickness, and strength, you must be strong on your skates and work your way to the puck. Make the “follow, stop, and jam” a mandatory part of any drill that incorporates shooting (when applicable) and enjoy the additional game time scoring opportunities that come from forming this good hockey habit.

Bad Habit: The Shut Down It’s a fast game and as you continue on to higher levels, it just keeps getting faster. As fast as any one player or stick can move, the puck can/will always move faster so being “receive ready” is critical. Turning away from a team mate when he has the puck is a bad hockey habit that happens all too often. Whether it happens during a break out, a regroup in the neutral zone, or during an offense press, “shut downs” cause a large number of broken plays and turnovers. “Opening” to a passer is a very important tactical skill to have as a hockey player especially when it comes naturally. We have

On The Bench all heard the hockey phrase “time and space” but do you truly understand what it means? “Time” creates “space”, “space creates opportunities. For example, the quicker and more accurate (time) a pass is, the more space the receiver has and in turn gives the receiver more opportunity to do something positive (shot, pass, skate, etc.) Shaving 1 second by opening to a passer and being “receive ready” can help create the time-space domino effect.

Obviously tape to tape passes are the end all, be all of the time-space theory – I did not include passing as a “habit” because it is a skill (not a tactical skill). Bottom line on this one is FACE the man with the puck, always open toward him and present a target (stick presence – where you want the puck or move to open ice for an indirect pass). *If you are interested in some practice drills that I use to promote the “open up” habit, just send me an email at rob@newedgehockey. com Bad Habit: The Fly By / Player We talked about creating time and space so now let’s talk about taking it away. Gap control is not just limited to a line rush on a defenseman, gap control is a tactical skill needed by all players as it occurs in all 3 zones. Attacking a puck carrier requires gap control, taking away or limiting their time and space is key to creating turnovers. More times than not I see players skate at a puck carrier in a defensive attack mode and when the carrier makes a move or changes directions, the attacker rolls off, makes a big C turn and re-attacks.

/ Page 6

Defensive systems like the 1-2-2 (for example) will never work because the “1” player is not completing his job! This bad habit gives the puck carrier the time-space advantage. Make sure your players know why you do “stop and start” and “mirror” drills during practice as this is a perfect example.

Be a pest to that puck carrier and close the gap with stops, starts and have an active stick. Playing “big” with your stick takes away passing lanes and puts additional pressure on the puck carrier. “Pressured” players have to move the puck out of desperation, not intention. Desperate puck movement usually result in turn-overs.

Bad Habit: One Dimensional Retrieval Proper puck retrieval is another critical tactical skill all hockey players should improve on. Many players have the habit of collecting the puck and then looking for options. We need to reverse this thought process as we need to be prepared prior to puck acquisition.

When skating after a loose puck, players should focus on two main elements, speed and preparation.

It is simple in theory, the faster you get to the puck, the more time you have to do something positive with it. The more prepared you are before you get to the puck (shoulder checks and scanning the ice) the more options you will have. Choose the right angle when approaching the puck, one that allows you to protect it and collect it. Use deception and “look-offs” when defenders are on your heels as one small move (a fake ring) can buy you just enough time to find

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www.nyhockeyonline.com an open team mate or create just enough space to skate the puck.

Bad Habit: Standing Still The game requires movement and flow, outside of a face off, you should never be standing still. Players in motion have the advantage when it comes to effective breakouts, efficient neutral zone play and of course offensive pressure. When you stand still in front of your opponents net (and it is not a designed screen or back door decoy etc.), you make it very easy to defend you. When you move to open ice, you either pull a defender toward you (creating a lane to the net for a team mate) or you become a viable outlet. The same goes for getting out of your own zone – stand still, you are easy to defend, easier to get to, and good luck trying to collect the puck and skate up ice if you do receive a pass. Players who move without the puck create passing opportunities for their team mates and when your team learns the art of indirect passing (passing to an area that a team mate is headed) the number of turn-overs by your team will drastically reduce (fewer forced passes into traffic, fewer forced rings etc.) Try the 3V2 Sweep in practice – if you would like a copy of this drill, shoot me an email; rob@newedgehockey.com Bad Habit: High Shots Being able to “lift” the puck is milestone achievement for young hockey players but shooting high has almost become an obsession for most of them! To be effective, hockey players must possess an ar-

On the Bench / Page 7 senal of shots and yes, being able to shoot to higher areas of the net is one of them. The problem arises when players shoot high over 80% of the time and most of those high shots fly over the net giving the team a 0.00% chance of scoring and a 0.00% chance of a rebound. There is a lot to be said for hitting the net with your shot and giving your team a true scoring opportunity. A shot that is “on net” can go “in the net” and a shot that is “on net” can result “in a rebound” which ultimately gives your team 2 chances for the price of 1. Missing the net can also result in a quick out and up for your opponent. This usually occurs when a player takes a hard, high shot from a bad angle and the puck rips along the glass/ boards and up the wall. I have seen too many odd man rushes come from high/missed bad angle shots!

Consider the math over an entire season; how many legitimate scoring chances are you giving up? I assure you, it is more than you can afford.

Bad Habit: Programmed Passes In some cases, this bad player habit stems from a bad coaching habit. Early on, some coaches instruct players to pass to a “place” when in certain situations. For example; “sending the puck to the front of the net” when in the corner of the offensive zone (or below the goal line). What you end up seeing are players randomly sending the puck to an area, not a player. If we must send the puck to an area, let’s make sure that area benefits us instead of potentially hurting us. In more cases than not, randomly throwing the puck toward

the slot turns into a breakout pass from you to your opponent(s).

Know what is going on BEFORE you get the puck - scanning the ice and having a general idea of where your team mates are is critical. If you can’t find an open team mate or don’t have time to find one, (in reference to the example above) don’t help your opponents – make it harder for them and give your team another opportunity to control the puck and/or create a legitimate scoring opportunity. You can do this by keeping the puck low. A soft chip behind the net moves defensive players (which can create lanes) and IF they are able to win the new puck battle, they have to go a full 200 feet which we know is very difficult to do. I also believe in teaching players at a young age how to cycle in the offensive zone which REALLY helps deter programmed and panic passing.

There are many examples of programmed and panic passing and they happen in all three zones.

When team mates are not open or you don’t have time to find one, knowing where to send the puck (and where not to) will help your team tremendously.

Rob Sedia is a Partner/Professional Instructor with the NewEdge Hockey Training Company and will be writing a monthly column for WNY Hockey Report.

If you would like to comment on this article, ask questions, provide feedback, or share your thoughts, please send an email to: rob@ newedgehockey.com

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Headed to The Brick / Page 8

Buffalo Player Heads to The Brick!

Story and Photos By Janet Schultz Janet@nyhockeyonline.com

T

yler Mancusco is a high honors student in fifth grade at Southtowns Catholic High School near Buffalo.

“Moose,” as his teammates know him, is a hockey player who plays because he likes the game, likes playing with his friends and has a natural talent.

The 10-year-old also understand that a lot of hard work goes into being a good player, but he sees that as fun.

“I want to play with friends and against other good teams,” said Mancuso.

If all of this seems similiar to your son or daughter, Tyler goes several more steps with the help of his family.

He was just selected to play in The Brick Tournament in Edmonton, Alberta. One of the most prestigious tournaments in hockey.

He will be playing for Team Pennsylavania, rather than Team New York.

The reason is geographical as his father, Chris, explained.

“New York is in a district with Connecticut making that an eight hour trip for us,” Chris says. “Pennsylvia’s tryouts were in Pittsburgh, a five-hour trip.”

“This is an honor for Tyler because each team is only allowed three import players and he is one of those for Team PA,” continues Chris.

But for Tyler, it’s hockey.

He began skating when he was three years old and moved to hockey at 5.

His first three years were spent with the Hamburg Hawks and then he moved to the Buffalo Regals, where he now makes his home.

Tyler has also been to the Darryl Belfry Pro Playmakers Hockey Development Program.

Chris, who has coached youth hockey, feels that skills are the most important part of ice hockey. Belfry’s approach to hockey are the three speeds of hockey: speed of mind, speed of hand and speed of foot.

“As a Coach you focus on winning by teaching hockey systems,” said Chris. “We don’t have time to teach the skills. From age 6 to 9 it’s important to learn those skills and not so important to learn hockey systems.”

“Now we are putting those pieces all together.”

Chris can see that Tyler is able to understand a play and read a play which is very important.

“It’s an organization’s place to go and have fun, learn and play the game; but the development comes on your own.”

That development comes from camps and clinics during the off-season.

Tyler spent one year in the Pro Playmakers Program and if his tryout in Pennsylvania is any indication, it worked.

He was one of the top standouts at the tryouts.

There were 120 players from different teams from the northeast.

“Tyler is one of the three imports and had to obtain a release from NY/CT to play for PA.” said Chris.

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At tryouts the players were put on four teams where they initially did skills including stick handling, cross overs and then played a scrimmage.

“These kids didn’t know each other,” said Tyler’s Mom, Wendy. “They played well together.”

Following the one-day, two ice-sessions tryout, Tyler made it to the second tryout, which was held in Harrisburg.

Another two-day session and on the ride home they got the infamous phone call that he had made the squad.

Now its on to The Brick. Team PA will be co-sponsored by the Philadephia Flyers, GNC and the Pittsburgh Penquins. The players will receive 40 hours of instruction and play in two tournaments prior to The Brick on June 28 through July 6 at the West Edmonton Mall.

“The tryout was very good,” said Tyler.

About his future--he doesn’t know yet. But right now he enjoys the New York Rangers and his favorite player is Marian Gaborik.

“He was a Ranger but got traded,” explains Moose.

He also enjoys some television with one of his favorites being “America’s Got Talent,” and his gaming leans towards hockey with “Big One Hockey.”

His main interests outside hockey includes fishing and playing soccer and golf.

“He knows he’s smart and doesn’t flaunt it,” said Chris. “Being a good student is the most important thing.”

Headed to the Brick / Page 9 “He just plays a high end of hockey and plays for fun.”

“His view of hockey is very realistic,” continued Chris.

“Tyler seems to excel at anything he touches.”

In the wings Mom just enjoys watching him play and she tries not to miss a minute.

“He loves it and it makes him happy to play,” said Wendy. “That’s what’s important.

Then there’s sister Jordan who also wants to play and right now is with the Buffalo Regals. She’s completed the Learn to Skate and is in the developmental program.

Jordan is already asking to play on Travel with a friend.

So it looks like the Mancuso family will be on the New York hockey scene for many years to come.

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Feature / Page 10

A Journey of Passion and Perseverance!

Story and Photos By Janet Schultz Janet@nyhockeyonline.com

W

hen a young girl takes to the ice at age 3 or 4, many times they are doing it because their older brothers are and they want to do what big brother is. Then they develop a love and passion for the sport and move on to house, travel and high school hockey. Their eyes may travel to collegiate or the Olympics, and for some the few women’s professional teams that exist in the United States and Canada.

They work hard, know there are few spots for a lot of young women.

Jill Battista knows the journey.

She began skating at three years old and ventured to hockey at five. She played two years with the boys at Bud Bakewell and then moved to the Buffalo Bisons and played for them from 7 to 14.

She went to play hockey in Canada in her sophomore year of high school, first with the Burlington Barracudas and then the Brampton Junior Canadettes.

She also was among the first to play in the Western New York Girls Ice Hockey Federation with her high

school, Kenmore East.

With the Bisons she took four New York State Championships and went to the Nationals four times and with Brampton she went to the final eight. With Kenmore Girls Varsity she was a member of the inaugural season and then took two sectional championships that sent Kenmore to the States for the first time.

Kenmore then took the league and sectional championships this season, sending them for a second time to the New York State Girls Varsity Ice Hockey Championships. Battista will now become a member of the Inaugural Women’s Ice Hockey Team at Merrimack College when they take the ice in 2015-16.

The road there was one she drove with a passion and gave up a normal teenage girl’s life to work on her dream.

“My favorite memory of hockey is while my Dad was coaching, I tugged on his shirt and told him I wanted to play hockey like Donnie (her brother),” says Battista. “He asked me what I meant.

“I told him I wanted to play in all the rinks that Donnie played in, which made him smile because that meant travel hockey,” continued Battista.

Her Dad has been the person she credits with making her hockey career happen.

“He worked two jobs to pay for hockey, and so did my Mom,” said Battista, as she explained their “normal” hockey schedule for a week.

On Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays she would get home from school, gather her food and homework and drive one and a half hours to practice in Canada; practice for two hours and make the trek back home, finishing her homework. They’d arrive home at midnight and she’ d be up the next day for school. On Tuesdays and Thursdays her Dad would work from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., come home and rest and go to another job from 5:30 to midnight. And the weekends were entirely hockey.

“If it weren’t for my Dad, there is no way I’d be playing college hockey.

“He sacrificed for me.”

There were even times she would play in two periods with one team and then head off to another game with another team in another arena.

“I love everything about the sport,” continued Battista. “When I step on the ice everything else goes away.” (Continued on Page 13)

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USA News / Page 11

Buffalo Hosting Two World Championships

John Koelmel.

“We have developed a strong relationship between USA Hockey, the Buffalo Sabres and HARBORCENTER. “This is a positive day for the City of Buffalo and Story and Photos By Janet Schultz Mayor Byron Brown and provides more evidence that Janet@nyhockeyonline.com we created a unique destination for hockey events and activity for not only our region and across the country, but from around the world.”

SA Hockey

Ted Black, presiannounced dent of the Buffalo Sathat two mabres, also thanked the jor world ice hockey Pegulas for what they championships will have done and noted come to Buffalo and that they want to elebe played in the vate hockey and there soon-to-be-completisn’t a better way to ed HARBORCENTdo it than host two ER. major world champi “This is the first onships and continue time a city has hosted the relationship with two world champiUSA Hockey. onships in one year,” “The City of said Dave Ogrean, Buffalo, the franchise executive director for and the sport of hockUSA Hockey, the Buffalo Sabres and HARBORCENTER announce the 2015 ey are headed in the USA Hockey.

The U18 Wom- IIHF U18 Women’s Worlds and the 2015 IPC Sledge Hockey Worlds will be right direction,” said held in Buffalo. Sharing in the announcement were USA Sled Hockey Coach en’s World ChampiBlack.

Jeff Sauer, USA Women’s Ice Hockey Director Raegan Carey, USA Hockey onship Tournament Executive Director Dave Ogrean, HARBORCENTER President John Koelmel Up first, and will be played JanuUP being the word and Buffalo Sabres President Ted Black (Photo by Janet Schultz) ary 4 through 12, since the games will 2015 and will feature be played on the sixth the most outstanding floor of HARBORyoung women in the United States.

CENTER, are the women’s U18 World Championships Second, but not at all least, is the 2015 Internation- featuring the United States, Canada, Czech Repubal Paralympic Committee Ice Sledge Hockey World lic, Russia, Finland, Sweden, Japan and Switzerland.

Championship April 24 through May 2, 2015. Team Team USA has played in the gold medal game in each USA is coming off a gold medal in Sochi. In addition of the first seven editions of the event. They captured to the World’s USA Hockey will be holding a Select the prize in 2008, 2009 and 2010, but never on U.S. soil Camp in Buffalo at the Northtown Center in July. and hope to do that in 2015.

“This is a great hockey market,” said Ogrean. “We “It’s exciting to bring the U18 Women here,” said are excited to come here and we thank the entire Sa- Reagan Carey, director of women’s hockey for USA bres and HARBORCENTER organization, as well as Hockey and general manager of the 2015 U18 Team. the Pegulas, for helping us move forward.”

“Fans will have a unique opportunity to see the “We are incredibly pleased to have USA Hockey best women athletes in the world,” she continued. back in Buffalo,” said HARBORCENTER President “This facility and the world-class nature of the

U

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www.nyhockeyonline.com event contributes to the growth of women’s ice hockey,” she continued.

“It’s an opportunity for girls to see where they can go and motivate them to that next level,” she explains.

The competition starts with 400 girls selected by USA Hockey at District camps, those selected move on to a development camp and from there those selected move on to a series in Lake Placid. From the top 30, the roster will be finalized in late Fall.

In 1998 there were 19 Division I Collegiate programs for women and 20,000 registered female players. Today there are 35 DI programs and 66,000 registered players and the numbers continue to grow.

Returning with another gold medal from the 2014 Paralympics, Team USA will continue to play for the gold at the Worlds in Sledge Hockey.

Only two players come from New York and both are from Western New York. Adam Page and Paul Schaus are sporting that Gold Medal and will return to the ice in the World Championships. But before that they, along with other members of the 2014 Team, will be in Buffalo for the Tryout Camp in July at the Northtown Center, Amherst.

“Adam and Paul are two different people. Adam was born with his disability and Paul lost his limbs serving in the military in Afghanistan,” said Team USA Coach Jeff Sauer. “Yet, they have meshed together as a team.”

“I love each one like a son and I don’t treat them any differently than I treat any hockey player,” explained Sauer. “We use the same drills, the same words between periods. The bottom line is they are athletes.”

“I tell them every day they are better athletes than some of the players in the National Hockey League,” said Sauer. “And they are. They can do things that an NHL player can’t.”

Sauer explained that Page can shoot with both hands and score from either side of his body, which a guy in the NHL can’t.

Sauer also wants fans to know that this is a physical game and these guys hit each other.

“This is a tremendously exciting sport and fun to be around.

“I love to stand back and watch them play,” said Sauer.

City of Buffalo Mayor Brown concluded the day

USA News / Page 12 with promising that the City of Good Neighbors will roll out the hospitality to the athletes, their families, coaches and fans.

“Thank you USA Hockey,” said Brown. “We are anxiously looking forward to 2015.”

NY State Girls Selected for USA Camp The following girls have been selected for summer USA National Development Camps following District Tryouts in Cicero with almost 200 girls participating. Listed by birth year: 1997: Caroline Ross, Oliva Zafuto, Elizabeth Gerace, Cailey Hutchinson 1998: Annie Berg, Jordan Emerson, Abby Cleary, Rachel Deperio, Abby Welch 1999: Natalie Buchbinder, Erica Monaco, Lillian Holmes, Alison Rogers, Margaret Walsh, Jennifer Gregg 2000: Ashley Mcdonald, Hanna Rose, Emma Seitz, Ciara Barone, Madison Brown, Kaitlyn Ripon, Abigail Levy We congratulate all the girls on a great tryout and wish these girls much success this summer.

It was also announced that there will be a NYS Amateur Hockey Association Summer Performane Camp in Canton from July 10 through 13.

This is designed for females with 2001-02 birth years who attended regional tryouts in April, but will also include some older layers. Invitations and details will be available shortly.

Contact NY Girls Director Joe Eppolito with any questions. (315-686-2226).

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(Battista Continued from Page 10) Signing a Letter of Intent with Merrimack doesn’t end the work.

This summer the coaches have provided their players with a workout scheduled and nutrition list.

“I have to shoot 50,000 pucks by August,” explains Battista.

So she has a formula. She shoots 300 pucks a day. (I can Jill Battista with her Mom, Barb, at senior night for the Kenmore Varsity attest to this because at this interview her Girls. (Photo by Janet Schultz) hands were full of blisters)!

In addition there is a stick handling circuit which includes 10 drills she must do three times a week and three sets on each of those days.

Nutritionally her Coach want her to put a little more meat on her body, but not enough to slow her down. That includes 75 grams of protein per day in the form of shakes and eggs.

“The strength is for getting the puck out of the corner,” she explains.

For several years Battista has had a trainer. The up side of this is that in her evaluation they found she was leaning more to one side than the other and attributed it to the way she held her stick. That also was causing her back and knee pain.

“They found that my hamstring was weak and so we are working on that and they will increase my speed,” she continued.

“We went to doctors and none of them came up with the reason for the pain,” said Mrs. Battista. “The evaluation by the trainer found it and we decided to pay now, save later.”

They were also told a regular gym is great for cardio workouts but didn’t want her to work out there and then undo what they would be doing at Proformance Sports Training in Amherst.

“I’ve had a trainer since my freshman year,” says

Feature / Page 13 Battista.

When she arrives at Merrimack, her and four other teammates will have 18 months with their coaches until the team takes the ice. While they cannot play on any other team, according to NCAA rules, they will be working out together and playing some scrimmages with women’s ice hockey teams in the Boston area.

Merrimack will play in Hockey East as a DI school when they take the ice in 2015-16.

“The hockey part is great, “ said Battista, who will be majoring in exercise science or education.

“But in the end it’s the education. That’s what I looked at. Would I go to this College even if I didn’t have hockey and I would have.”

“I’ve loved Boston ever since I played in the Beantown Tournament.”

Beantown is one of her favorite tournaments because it brings together players from all over, its highly competitive yet fun and there are many colleges coaches and she found it a great place to showcase her talents.

“Jill has dedicated herself to hockey,” said Mrs. Battista. “I never had to pull her to go, she was always ready to play.”

“What you put in you get out of it, is my motto,” said Battista.

With that goes her Dad’s advice, “It’s not how you start, it’s how you finish so keep going!”

Merrimack College is located in East Andover, Massachusetts, just about an hour outside Boston.

They introduced Women’s Ice Hockey as their 24th varsity sport and selected Erin Hamlen as their head coach. Hamlen led the University of New England women’s hockey team during its inaugural season in 2012-13. Prior to UNE he spend 10 years with the University of New Hampshire, guiding them to four straight Hockey East tournament titles, six regular season titles and two appearances in the Frozen Four.

He will be assisted by Brent Hill.

Hill was the assistant coach for the past four years with RPI’s Women’s Ice Hockey Team. He Hockey East includes Boston College, Boston University, Connecticut, Maine, New Hampshire, Northeastern, Providence and Vermont.

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Three New Franchises Announced

N

orthern States Junior Hockey League is proud to announce the addition of three teams for the 2014-2015 season.

The Roc City Royals of Rochester, New York, is a new franchise that will join the NSHL. Owner and general manager Jack Slade started the franchise with the goal that it become development program to move players to college hockey or a higher level of juniors.

“I’d seen the league and thought it was a competitive league to play in,” said Slade of his decision to enter his team in the NSHL. “We wanted to have a team in the Rochester area that could be a great place for development.”

Slade has been coaching hockey since 1974 and also has a strong background in recruiting.

“Mainly this (team) is to give local kids a place to play competitive hockey and advance them,” he said. “The response has been good and recruiting has been going very well.”

The Lockport Express, of Lockport, New York, is another franchise entering the NSHL next season.

“We are very excited to be joining the NSHL for the 20142015 season. The league provides high quality Junior A hockey and is extremely well run,” said Head Coach and General Manager Frank Vecchio. “We are looking forward to the challenge of building a quality program that pro-

vides players the opportunity to advance to the college level and beyond, while also providing the opportunity for a quality education.

We fully expect to be an asset to the NSHL.” The Central New York Stallions will be another new addition for 2014-2015. Team owner Michael Beavis also owns the Syracuse Stampede of the NSHL. Their home rink will be at Morrisville State College.

“Part of the reason for forming the Stallions was the opportunity to help the NSHL brand by creating a solid foundation for an Eastern and Western division for the league,” said Beavis. “Along with the other new members in the West, Lockport & Roc City Royals, the Stallions will join the Syracuse, Wilkes-Barre and Jersey Shore which should be a very competitive division.”

Beavis said the team will build quality relationships will local college coaches.

“I think with the success that the Stampede has had over the past few seasons, the Stallions will be able to add to that with the NSHL franchise actually running out of a SUNY school campus,” said Beavis. “We are currently interviewing several quality coaches for the head coach job with the Stallions. Even though the team has been a bit low key over the past couple moths, there has been quite a buzz in the Central New York area over the formation of

the team and its relationship with several area college coaches.”

Finally, the Maine Moose sold their franchise to new owner Jeff Dupere, who has changed the name to the Maine Timberwolves. Dupere worked with the Moose last season and is excited to own a team in the NSHL. “I’ve been in hockey my entire life and I felt like I was in a position to take that step and purchase a team to work with them and better them, and help them move on in education and in hockey,” he said.

Dupere, whose father was an Olympic hockey player, played major juniors in Canada and had to retire due to injuries. Ever since then, he has mainly worked with hockey players in a strength and condition aspect. This will be his first time coaching juniors.

“I spent this past season working with the Moose and training them and I really enjoyed watching them grow and working with them,” he said. “I’m excited to bring my philosophies to the game and my expertise in training off and on the ice. I’m excited to work with this agr group and turn them into better young men and better hockey players.”

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Central Hockey / Page 17 24 points in postseason play. Peterson recorded 96 points in his final season on 34 goals and 62 points.

Bruce Racine comes to Colgate after playing goal for the Connecticut Junior Yankees of the USPHL and EJHL’s Connecticut Oilers the last two seasons. Racine was a 2014 USPHL All-Star in net, playing in 30 games for the Yankees. He appeared in net for 18 with the Oilers in 201213.

Sebastian Weberg joins the Raiders after spending two seasons with the Green Bay Gamblers of the United States Hockey League. He had 34 points in two years with the Gamblers on 20 goals and 14 assists. He was part of Team Norway at the 2013 U20 World Junior Championships and scored two goals in five games and also appeared for Norway in the U18 World Juniors in 2011 and had two helpers. He played at Shattuck St. Mary’s and compiled 245 career points in 174 games.

Earlier, the Raiders announced that Spiro Goulakos will return as captain and Joe Wilson is remaining as an assistant captain.

In 2013-14 team awards, the Terry Slater Trophy went to senior Eric Mihalik. The trophy is awarded by the Silver Puck Club and goes to the senior whose performance, leadership, and dedication on and off the ice during his career had the greatest impact on Colgate hockey.

Central New York Men’s College Hockey Report

by Warren Kozireski Wkozires@brockport.edu

COLGATE The Raiders announced their incoming Class of 2018, which features three forwards and two goaltenders.

Zac Hamilton arrives via the Westminster School in Connecticut. The goalie had a .911 save percentage in the New England Preparatory School Athletic Council.

He was a two-time member of the Flood-Marr All-Tournament Team and was named the Westminster Most Valuable Player in 2013.

Mike Panowyk joins the Raiders from the Whitby Fury of the Ontario Junior Hockey League where he registered 86 points in the two seasons. Panowyk had 23 goals and 45 assists in 46 games with the Fury last year as a second team OJHL All-Star in 2013-14 after being named Whitby’s Rookie of the Year in 2012-13.

Evan Peterson is from the Carleton Place Canadians of the Central Canadian Hockey League where he scored 152 points in his two seasons plus added

Mihalik appeared in 11 games during the season and went 4-5-1 overall. He was honored for his leadership and attitude all year when mentoring rookie Charlie Finn and other players on the team. Mihalik finished his career with 83 games played, which is fifth all-time and became the sixth goalie in Colgate history to record 2,000 saves in his career. He is also in the top-10 in wins with 32 in his career.

The Dan Coley “Barrel” Award, which is given to the best defenseman, was received by junior captain Spiro Goulakos for the secondstraight year and joins six other skaters that have won the award in back-to-back seasons. Rob Brown ’04 is the only player to win it three years in a row. Goulakos was back at full strength this season and played in all 39 games, scoring a career-high nine goals. He added five power play goals and his 20 points were tied for sixth on the team.

Finn was voted by his teammates as The Best Defensive Player. The rookie net-minder posted a 16-8-4 record between the pipes.

He won the most games since Mark Dekanich ’08 had 18 in the 2007-08 season. Finn’s 11 conference victories were only second to Union’s Colin Stevens for league wins and his save percentage (.918) and goals against average (2.35) was among the top netminders in ECAC Hockey.

The Steve Riggs Award, which is given to the player who is most known for gentlemanly play and possesses a high standard of ability, went to Mike Borkowski. The sophomore centerman enjoyed a breakout season with career highs

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www.nyhockeyonline.com in all three offensive categories with eight goals and 20 assists for 28 points. He ranked fourth on the team in scoring and he had four gamewinners for the most on the squad.

Junior assistant captain Joe Wilson took home the Rob Ries Award for his inspiration and leadership on the team. Wilson played most of the season on a line with two rookies and the three became a formidable third line on the Raiders.

He finished with at least 20 points for the third-straight season and has 66 career points in 113 games.

Twelve of his 20 points came in league play and he had three power play goals and a game-winner.

Two Raiders split the Whit Williams Award, which was handed out by Whit’s widow Linda, went to Mike McCann and Jake Kulevich. The award is given to the most improved player throughout the season. McCann had his best season as a Raider in 2013-14 with a career-high 11 points on seven goals and four helpers. Kulevich finished the year with nine assists, which was third on the team among defensemen.

The Best Offensive Player went to Tyson Spink as the top pointgetter for the Raiders. He finished with 33 points on 10 goals and 23 helpers, was among the top assists guys in the league and also tallied three power play goals and three game-winners.

The Coaches Award was given to Kyle Baun. The sophomore worked extremely hard this season for Colgate and scored 26 points on 11 goals and 15 assists. He was second on the team in power play goals with six and he has 50 career

Central Hockey / Page 18 points on 25 goals and 25 helpers.

CORNELL

The team announced its postseason award-winners with defenseman Joakim Ryan taking home the top honor by winning the Nicky Bawlf Award as the team’s most valuable player. Ryan was also named an assistant captain for the 2014-15 season, joining returning captain John McCarron and fellow assistant captain Cole Bardreau (Fairport). In being named the captain for the 2014-15 season, McCarron will become the Big Red’s first two-time solo captain since H.T. Clark from 192931.

Senior goalie Andy Iles (Ithaca) was only member of the team to win three awards, while senior forward Dustin Mowrey and junior forward Joel Lowry each won two awards. Each award is voted upon by the players on the 2013-14 roster.

For a fourth time, Iles won the Wendell & Francelia Earle Award, which is presented annually to the top student in each class. Iles also won the Bill Doran Sportsmanship Award for a second straight season, becoming the first member of the Big Red to do so since current assistant coach Topher Scott ’08 won the award in his final three seasons. Iles was also presented with the Mark Weiss Memorial Award, which is awarded to a senior with a career-long dedication and passion for the sport of hockey.

Mowrey was presented the Sam Woodside Award for overall career improvement by a senior and the

Iron Man Award, presented annually to the player who showed determination to overcome injuries. Mowrey played in 115 career games, scoring 20 goals to go with 45 assists for 65 points – the highest total among his classmates, despite several injury-shortened seasons.

He was also tabbed for the Joe DeLibero-Stan Tsapis Award for skilled efficiency, unselfish dedication and hard-nosed competitive desire.

Lowry won the Iron Man Award for the first time in his career. He has already played in 100 games for Cornell, never missing a contest due to injury. He also claimed the Crimson Cup, given to the player who was the standout performer in the season series against Harvard. Lowry’s memorable goal against the Crimson led the Big Red to a 3-2 victory with 36 seconds remaining in overtime on Senior Night this year. He also had an assist earlier in the game.

Ryan was presented the Nicky Bawlf Award after logging countless minutes on the blue line in all situations for the Big Red. He ranked 11th in the country in points per game for defensemen (0.75) after racking up a career-best eight goals to go with 16 assists for 24 points. Over the last two seasons, he’s been on the ice for 88 of the team’s 160 goals (55 percent). The Hobey Baker Award nominee was named to the All-Ivy League First Team and the All-ECAC Hockey Second Team for a second consecutive season.

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Central Women’s College Ice Hockey Report

by Janet Schultz Janet@nyhockeyonline.com

Utica College

The Dick Miller Award was given to Megan Myers and the Greg Roberts Award to Vanessa Maines.

Senior forward Megan Myers (Las Vegas, NV/LA Selects) of the women’s hockey team was a 2013 CCM AllAmerican and a three-time ECAC West First Team All-Conference selection. She led the Pioneers in scoring in each of her four seasons and will graduate ranked second alltime in career scoring at UC with 143 points in 104 games.

Megan tied Pioneer Hall of Famer Deana Wiegand ‘07 for first on the College’s all-time goal scoring list with 74 goals.

Over the course of the last four years she posted 15 gamewinning goals and helped guide UC to 56 victories. Originally from Las Vegas, Nevada, Megan will graduate with a degree in Therapeutic Recreation.

Maines, a member of the women’s hockey and lacrosse teams, was an ECAC West All-Academic Team selection for the women’s hockey program and she scored 41 points on 20 goals and 21 assists in 91 career games on the ice. She also helped guide the Pioneers to the ECAC West Conference Tournament in three of her four seasons at Utica. As a member of the women’s lacrosse team she netted 18 goals and tallied seven assists in 32 career games played. She also guided the women’s lacrosse program to a school-record ten victories this past year. Vanessa is originally from Boxborough, Massachusetts and will graduate with a degree in Public Relations.

Syracuse University

Julie Knerr and Akane Hosoyamada were named Captains for the 2014-15 season. They will be assisted by Nicole

Central Hockey / Page 19 Renault and Nicole Ferrara.

Hosoyamada will don the “C” on her jersey this season after being awarded a fifth year due to medical hardship during her sophomore season. Hosoyamada is a dual threat for the Orange, playing both defenseman and forward as needed. She began the season on defense before transitioning to an offensive role, amassing 16 points off four goals and 12 assists along the way, a stat line identical to her 2012-13 totals.

Also serving as a captain is senior Knerr who had a break-out season in 2013-14, scoring a career-best seven goals including two game winners, the first against No. 9/8 Robert Morris and the second in the first round of the CHA playoffs which secured Syracuse’s spot in the semifinals.

Knerr, a forward, was also a big contributor defensively, blocking 32 opponent shots, the fifth-most on the team.

Renault will be the only Orange on the ice with an “A” on her chest as Ferrara will redshirt next season while she recovers from an injury suffered in the middle of the 201314 season. As a sophomore defenseman, Renault was one of the biggest contributors to the ‘Cuse offense, scoring 28 points including 21 assists, the most on the team. A force on the power play, Renault scored four man-up goals. She also netted two unassisted scores. Renault was the only Orange named to the All-CHA First Team. She scored the most points among any CHA defenseman last season and the 9th most of any Division I defenseman.

Before her season came to a close, Ferrara, a rising senior, was a spark for the Orange, netting seven goals, including two power play and one shorthanded, and assisting on five. In 2012 she scored 24 points, the second-most on the team, including 10 goals, four of which were gamewinners. Ferrara will be a leader off the ice this season while she rehabilitates from her injury.

The Orange ice hockey team honored six studentathletes with its annual end-of-the-year awards. Syracuse achieved its best record in program history this season, going 20-14-3, tying the most wins in school history and setting a new low in losses. The team defeated a record three ranked programs this season and tied with two, its best result against top-10 schools since the program began in 2008.

Two-time captain Margot Scharfe was named this year’s Most Valuable Player. A leader on and off the ice, Scharfe leaves Syracuse with the school record in career goals with 41 and the second-most points in program history with 86. She matched her season-best assist total with 13 this season while contributing 10 goals including two game-winners and one shorthanded. In addition to her production on offense, she was one of the team’s best defenders, particularly on the penalty kill. Scharfe had the

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www.nyhockeyonline.com third-most blocked shots on the team with 35, the most of any forward.

Jessica Sibley was named Rookie of the Year for her outstanding performance in her first season of collegiate hockey. Sibley was named College Hockey America’s Rookie of the Month in January and February, the first time in program history that a player has earned multiple CHA monthly honors, and was also named to the All-CHA Rookie Team. She finished the season with the third-most points on the team, tallying 26 including 12 goals and 14 assists. Her 26 points were second-most among CHA rookies and fifth among all Division 1 freshmen.

The Best Offensive Player Award went to Melissa Piacentini, who was a spark on offense that led Syracuse to an impressive second-half of the season.

After coming back from winter break, Piacentini went on a school record tengame point streak that helped SU to a 10-6-1 record in the 2014 portion of the season. Within that point streak was a program best seven game goal streak for the sophomore forward. Piacentini led the team in points with 29 including 17 goals, also the most on the team, and was named to the All-CHA Second Team.

Assistant Captain Brittany Krebs and All-CHA First Team member Nicole Renault were named co-Best Defensive Players for the 2013-14 season.

Krebs was a consistent threat from the point, totaling seven assists and a career-best three goals on the season.

She also led the team in blocked shots, totaling 67 on the season.

Renault was one of the biggest threats for Syracuse this season. She was the second-leading scorer on the team with 28 points including a teamhigh 21 assists, the most points of any defenseman in the CHA and the 12thmost among all Division I defenders.

As a sophomore, she currently ranks 13th in career points and ninth in ca-

Central Hockey / Page 20 reer assists in the Syracuse record book.

Larissa Martyniuk was named the Most Improved Player for the Orange last season. The freshman defenseman had the second-most points on the team among rookies, finishing with 17 including 12 assists. After a slow start to the season, Martyniuk began contributing both offensively and defensively, totaling 22 blocked shots and was an important piece of the penalty kill unit.

Colgate

Colgate has added seven to its roster for next season.

Ellie DeCaprio is a 5”4” Forward from Wellesley, Mass where she played for the East Coast Wizards. She was a member of the USA National Development Team in both U16 and U17 years.

She took the MVP in 2013-14 as a member of her high school team posting a record of 63 goals/50 assists at The Rivers School. She is the daughter of James and Leslie DeCaprio.

Shelby Perry comes from Etginburg, Ontario and the Holy Cross Catholic Secondary School. She was a member of the Kingston Ice Wolves and named a three-time MVP. The 5’8” Forward played for Team Ontario Blue at the 2014 Canadian Nationals.

She is the daughter of Elmer and Connie Perry.

Kaila Pinkney is a native of Denfield, Ontario and a graduate of Midway High School. The 5’9” Defenseman played for the Blue Water Junior Haws and also was on the u18 Team for Team Canada this past year, winning the Worlds. She is the daughter of Brian and Carol Pinkney.

Breanne Wilson-Bennett comes from Markham, Ontario and the Bill Crothers Secondary school. She played for the Toronto Junior Aeros and served as their co-captain. In her Senior year she had 18 goals and 26 assists and won gold with the U18 Ca-

nadian National Team in 2013. She also took a gold in Javelin at the OFSAA in 2010 and 2013. The daughter of Sharlene Wilson-Bennett had 76 goals and 87 assists record in high school.

Annika Zalewski is from New Hartford, New York and Nichols School in Buffalo. She is 5’10” and plays forward. Annika also played for the Buffalo Bisons where she had 25 goals and 26 assists this season. With the Bisons and Nichols she was part of the teams that took the NAPHA Championship, the CISAA League Championship and the Deerfield Invitational. In 2014 Annika led the 19Us at the USA Hockey Nationals in scoring and was named Team MVP and a Heart of a Champion winnr. She is an All WNY Scholar Athlete and made the NAPHA All League First Team.

According to Coach she “plays with a lot of passion, gritty yet skilled, exceptional work ethic and a smart, two-way player.

She is the daughter of James and Elizabeth. Zalewski.

Megan Sullivan comes from Toronto, Ontario and Lawrence Park Collegiate Institute. She is a forward and played for the Whitby Junior Wolves.

She won the silver with Team Ontario Blue, played in the Women’s U18 Nationals and won. She has a career 72 points with 34 goals and 38 assists. She is the daughter of Frank and Connie Sullivan.

Lauren Wildfang is from Waterdown, Ontario and graduated from Waterdown District High School. She comes from the Toronto Junior Aeros, where she was co-captain and had 8 goals and 19 assists last season. She was also a member of Team Canada and Team Ontario. She is the daughter of Brian and Maria Wildfang.

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Rodger Craig was presented the Cornell Hockey Association Award, which is given annually to the player whose contributions to the team don’t show up in the box score, but rather are in the form of energy, heart and hustle. Craig continued to be a gritty presence on the Big Red’s third and fourth lines. While he didn’t show up on the scoresheet often, he had a knack for scoring big goals over his collegiate career. In 2013-14, he scored the winning goal in the ninth round of a shootout against Maine to lead the Big Red to the Florida College Hockey Classic championship.

The Greg Ratushny Award for the most promising rookie went to forward Jeff Kubiak. He led the freshman class in scoring with one goal and eight assists for nine points over 30 games at both center and on the wing. He was named the ECAC Hockey Rookie of the Week on Feb. 3 after helping the Big Red to a big road sweep of Yale and Brown, posting a goal and two assists over the weekend.

In other news assistant coach Ben Syer was named to replace new President Brian Riley (Army) as American Hockey Coaches Association Vice-President for Membership.

CORTLAND

Nick Zappia (Manlius) was selected the Red Letter Award winner for the hockey team at the year-end Athletic banquet. The Red Letter may be given for

Central Hockey / Page 21 outstanding athletic skills, team leadership, personal development as a player, or for any combination of reasons.

ELMIRA

Former Soaring Eagles AllAmerican and team captain Mike Haviland ‘90 has been named the head coach for the Colorado College men’s ice hockey program.

Haviland, who most recently was the head coach for the AHL’s Hershey Bears, also served as an assistant coach with the Chicago Blackhawks from 2008-12, helping the franchise bring home the Stanley Cup in 2010.

Before ascending to the NHL, he made several successful stops with teams in both the AHL and the ECHL dating back to 2001.

Haviland coached the AHL’s Norfolk Admirals from 2005-07, winning the Louis A. R. Pieri Memorial Coach of the Year award in 200607. He also coached the ECHL’s Trenton Titans in 2004-05 and Atlantic City Boardwalk Bullies from 2001-04, leading both franchises to

ECHL Championships in 2004-05 and 2002-03, respectively.

HOBART

Junior defenseman Ryan Michel (Camillus) was presented with the Boswell Award as the team’s MVP, senior forward Tommy Fiorentino (New Hartford) received the Holden Award, the D. Michael

Hazelton ‘85 Memorial Award was given to first-year defenseman Mitch Beyer (Clifton Park) plus first-year defensemen Carl Belizario and Jon Neal shared the Rookie Award for Hockey at the annual end-of-the-year banquet.

MORRISVILLE

Senior Christopher Azzano was named the male student-athlete of the year award following his outstanding service and dedication to Mustang athletics. The senior is also a two-sport student-athlete in men’s ice hockey and golf. This past season, Azzano moved up the goaltender record books in all-time stats, ranking second all-time with 1,183 saves in his career.

UTICA

Senior Trever Hertz was named the ice hockey senior student-athlete awards at the College’s seventh annual Pioneer Hall of Fame and Senior Athlete Recognition dinner. Hertz was also named cowinner of the 27th annual Richard “Dick” Miller Most Inspirational Student-Athletes The Dick Miller Award, which has recognized 61 UC studentathletes since 1987, honors dedication to physical fitness, athletic competition and a commitment to excellence. It is awarded annually to deserving male and female senior student-athletes who have exhibited excellence, determination, hard work and outstanding athletic achievement over the course of their time spent at Utica College.

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Alyssa Gagliardi was the recipient of the Mario St. George ‘04 Leadership Award given for leadership, athleticism and a strong work ethic.

The Big Red women’s hockey team announced its year-end award winners at its banquet two seniors earning some of the top awards.

The Bill Fuerst Jr. Big Red Player Award went to the team’s co-captains: seniors Jessica Campbell and Alyssa Gagliardi. Campbell, a two-time Second Team All-America finished the 2013-14 campaign as the team’s thirdleading scorer with 15 goals and 25 assists. Gagliardi, a two-time captain and Hockey Humanitarian Award finalist this year, was key in the Big Red’s transition game and scored eight goals and 23 assists as a blue-liner.

Campbell also won the team’s Cub Club Mentor award, given for a player’s dedication to the team’s Cub Club program. The award was presented to Campbell by her Cub Club Little Sister.

Sophomore Taylor Woods walked away with the Unsung Hero award after a strong season that saw her score nine goals and assist on 13 others. She had four goals on the power play and shared time between the first and second offensive lines for the Big Red. Cornell’s MVP award was given to junior forward Jillian Saulnier and senior Alyssa Gagliardi. Saulnier led the team this season with 28 goals and 28 assists for 56 total points and has amassed 151 career points in her three years at Cornell. A First-Team AllAmerican as well as the Ivy League Player of the Year, Saulnier moved up to seventh on the Cornell all-time assists list and ninth on its points list over the season. Gagliardi, a Second Team All-American and ECAC Hockey’s Co-Best Defensive Defenseman,

Central Hockey / Page 22 amassed a career-high 100 blocks, is currently the Cornell all-time leader in games played (138) and moved up to fifth all-time in plus/minus (+96).

The team also handed out its Most Improved Player award, this year given to sophomore forward Anna Zorn.

A third line winger, Zorn played in all 34 games this season and scored four goals and assisted on four others.

Finally, freshman Hanna Bunton earned Rookie of the Year honors.

Bunton was also awardedv the Ivy League’s Rookie of the Year and was named to ECAC Hockey’s All-Rookie Team at season’s end. She scored seven goals and added 10 assists, including three game-winning goals.

The Wendell and Francelia Earle Academic Awards were given out to members of three different classes.

Defenseman Morgan Richardson was given the award for the sophomore class, forward Emily Fulton earned the honor from the juniors, and Gagliardi claimed the award from the senior class.

NEWS FROM CENTRAL NY

...Cortland Youth Hockey will hold their golf tournament/fundraiser on July 19 at the Walden Oaks Country Club. ...Lysander is holding a Mite Summer Camp July 11 through September 26. ...Onondaga will hold PeeWee and Squirt Tryouts on July 2. ...Oswego’s Laker Hockey School will be held July 14 through August 4.

This School has been designed to develop and enhance fundamental skills of skating, shooting and stick handling through structural and creative hockey insruction in a supportive environment. A Little Lakers Camp will be held July 21-24, 9 a.m. to noon and there will also be an All-Girls Clinic.

Contact Edward.gosek@oswego.edu for more information. ...Southern Tier hockey has posted their rosters on their website. Southern Tier held their “One Up” coaching clinic was held May 17 and 18 in conjunction with the Girls Evaluation Camp. ...Snowbelt Hockey will hold a Board Meeting on August 21 and another on September 18. ...Clinton Youth Hockey has elected the following to their Board of Directors: Jackie Bonomo, Michael Cancilla, Jon Davignon, Luke Davignon, Chris Engle, Todd Saunders, Greg Williams and Gary Zalewski.

Clinton is holding a Summer Clinic for their players only on June 25 through July 16. ...Syracuse Youth Hockey had six players named to the USA Hockey Player Development Camp from the 2000 Blazers: Benny Huckaby, Bobby Welch; 1999 Blazers: Tyler Dorval, Jeffrey Gentile and Michael PatersonJones. Congratulations! ...Geneva will hold Strong Hockey Summer Camps from July 27 to August 1 at Thomas Creek Arna and August 10-15. Check out www.stronghockey.com for details. ...Auburn will hold their golf tournament on September 20 at Dutch Hallow Country Club beginning at Noon.

Contact Tim Siracusa at Tsiracusa@ roadrunner.com for info.

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Eastern New York Men’s College Hockey Report

by Warren Kozireski

Wkozires@brockport.edu

ARMY

Army head hockey coach Brian Riley, who completed his 10th season in 2013-14, was named president of the American Hockey Coaches Association. Riley, who has served the AHCA for the past two years as Vice President for Membership, starts his new position on July 1.

The team handed out their 2013-14 season awards in midMay. Senior captain Brian Schultz was named the Henry “Hal” Beukema Award winner as the hockey team’s Most Valuable Player Schultz earned the team’s MVP award, along with an award for academic excellence after closing the year with five goals and nine assists. He scored twice, including the game-winner, in an Atlantic Hockey Association playoff win over eventual champion Robert Morris.

Maurice Alvarez won the first Major Tom Kennedy Award following his productive junior sea-

son of fourth on the team in scoring with 15 points.

Mike Santee, a former player whose career ended prematurely due to injury, garnered the Haggerty Award. The award is named in honor of Paul Haggerty, a 1991 West Point graduate who worked his way up from junior varsity to the first line and later served as an Army assistant coach. He died suddenly during a workout early in his coaching career. Paul’s son, Luke, presented Santee with the award after noting the many similarities in their work ethic and commitment.

C.J. Reuschlein was honored with the Heinmiller Award presented to the team’s outstanding freshman player. The Atlantic Hockey Association AllRookie Team selection, led the team in scoring with 22 points and tied for second among the AHA’s top goal-scorers of 2013-14. He is the first Army players since Owen Meyer in 2010 to reach the 20-point plateau as a rookie.

Dr. Michael Hennelly, an instructor in West Point’s Behavioral Sciences and Leadership department and invaluable member of the Army hockey family, was named the Derek Hines Award winner. It

recognizes a person who has displayed an extraordinary amount of support to the Army hockey program and shares values that Derek did, cared more about giving than receiving and displayed great passion and love for the Army hockey family. Derek was killed in action in 2005.

The team captain’s torch to soon-to-be seniors Mac Lalor and Josh Richards, who served as alternate captains in 2013-14, and rising junior Joe Kozlak for 2014-15.

HUDSON VALLEY CC

Jordan Simpson was named the team Most Valuable Player at the college awards banquet in midMay. Jordan has been the team’s defensive leader the past two seasons. He played in 13 games this season, recording one goal and seven assists to help earn him AllRegion honors.

Goaltender Ricky Piper was named the 2013-2014 Male Otto Guenther Award winner, presented to the student-athlete who demonstrates the best combination of academic and athletic success.

Ricky was a two-year goalie for the ice hockey team, appearing in 16 total games. This past season, Ricky had a 2.59 goals against average and a .913 save percentage.

UNION

The Union College men’s hockey team was honored May 7 on the floor of the State Assembly and in the Senate Chamber as the team’s NCAA Division I Championship

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www.nyhockeyonline.com was celebrated.

Assemblyman Jim Tedisco, an alumnus of Union, presented the Dutchmen with a copy of a resolution he sponsored that was unanimously passed. The team was also guests of State Senator Hugh T. Farley, who praised Union’s accomplishments before the entire New York State Senate.

Rick Bennett, who led Union College to the 2014 NCAA Division I Men’s Hockey Championship, has signed a two-year contract extension through the

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East Hockey / Page 25 2021-22 season.

Bennett owns a career record of 80-27-16 (.715) in three seasons at Union, including a postseason mark of 19-2 and has led the Dutchmen to a pair of NCAA Frozen Fours, three NCAA Tournaments, three ECAC Hockey Tournament titles and two ECAC Hockey regular season crowns.

Bennett won the Spencer Penrose Award in 201314 as national coach of the year presented by the American Hockey Coaches Association (AHCA).

East Coll Women’ ege Repo s rt Jane by Jane t t@ny hock Schultz eyon line. com

RPI

RPI welcomes the Class of 2018 including: Amanda Kimmeile, defense from Anoka Minnesota and Anoka High School; Marisa Raspa, forward, Dowingtown, Pennsylvania and North American Hockey Academy; Whitney Renn, forward, Troy, Michigan and Little Caesars and Shayna Tomlinson, forward from Gilford, New Hampshire, St. Paul’s High School and Assabet Valley Hockey.

RPI went 10-20-3 overall this past season and 6-14-2 in the ECAC. Eight of their top ten scorers will be returning to the ice in the Fall.

Manhattanville

Goaltender Oliva Drew worked with the Westchester Food Bank putting together lunches and delivering them to the underprivileged in Westchester County. This was part of an initiative of the Manhattanville Athletic Department.

Heading to College:

Sydney Ostrofsky, a graduate of Schechter Westchester High School, will be playing hockey, as a freshman, for the University of Delware. Sydney played her hockey with the Westchester Wild. Congratulations.

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East Section News

...Brewster will hold a Summer Camp at the Brewster Ice Arena beginning June 22. ...Bedford’s High School/Prep Clinic will be held June 1 through 19. ...Greater New York City Ice Hockey League players and families will be attending the Brooklyn Cyclones (Mets) vs Jamestown Jammers (Pirates) baseball game on July 17. Tickets are $20 and proceeds will benefit GNYCIHL. Go on line at gnycihl.com ...Ice Cats Summer Camp will be held Mondays, June 30 through August 11 for Mites, Squirts, Pee Wees.

Jackie Munzel’s Hour of Power Skate will be held Saturdays, June 28 through August 23 at Iceland, Hyde Park, NY. Contact Jacki.munzel@gmail.com for information. ...Seven Long Island Gulls were taken in the USHL draft including Simon Butala to the Madison Capitals; Dante Palecco to Muskegon Lumberjacks, both in the first round. Sam Steingchein went to the Tri City Storm; Evan Wisocky to Madison Capitals; Jack Badini to the Lincoln Stars, Chris Grando to the Green Bay Gamblers and Brenden Less to the Madison Capitols.

Congratulations! ...Long Island Royals had two players selected in the USHL Draft including Joseph McGuire, Holbrrok, who went to the Muskegon Lumberjacks and Brandon Fortunato of North Hills who will play for the Fargo Force. Congratulations. ...Millbrook Youth Hockey has posted their 2014-15 season rosters at millbrrokyouthhockey.com ...The NY Bobcat’s John Schiavo will attend the New York Islander Rookie Camp this summer. He spent last season in the USPHL. The East Patchoque native also attended the USHL and NAHL camps.

Schiavo had 10 goals and 21 assists during in 38 games in 2012-13.

The Bobcats have three players that were drafted in the USHL including Will Campion who went to Bloomington Thurnder. Campion was named to the EHL First Team All Stars after registered 31 points in 43 games. Josh McGuire of Dix Hills went to the Muskegon Lumberjacks. In his fourth year with the Bobcats he scored 6 points in 32 games. Also going to the

East Hockey / Page 26 Lumberjacks was Dante Palecco who also played for the Long Island Gulls scoring 34 goals and 19 assists.

Bobcat Dan O’Donoghue signed a twoyear, entry-level contract with the Phoenix Coyotes.

O’Donoghue, who just completed a four-year career at NCAA Division I Mercyhurst, was a standout for the Bobcats during the 2008-09 season where he was named MVP of the AJHL all-star game. He played 10 games with the Bobcats during the 2009-10 campaign before moving to the USHL for 39 contests. He returned for the Bobcats’ playoff run that year prior to Mercyhurst. ...The NY Cyclones Hockey Assn. will hold a Summer Camp at Chelsea Piers APEX Training for Pee Wees and older and a Summer Ice Hockey Camp for ages 6 to 16. ...Westchester Hockey announces the coaching staff for 2014-15. They include: Mites: Doug Schur and Billy Branch at the 2006; Jim Pellegrino Sr at 2007/08.

Squirt 2005: Jim Pellegrino Jr; Squirt 2004: Anthony Pellegrino; Squirt A: Jerrit Thiess; Squirt B: Jerry Petras; Pee Wee O3: Judson Selig; Pee Wee 02: Kevin Hagen and Walter Tchernigov; Pee Wee A: Joe Berkley; Pee Wee B: Dave Dragon; Bantam OO TB: Frank Scalia; Bantam 01: Walter Tchernigov and Kevin Hagen; Bantam A: Josh Isenberg; Midget 98TB: Brian DelSavio and Erik Kallio; Midget 99AA: Erik Kallio and Gus Katsuras; Midget A: Joe DiDomenico; Midget Major: Brett Bilodeau; Wild U10/12: Johanna Slempa; Wild U14: Monique Rafferty and Wild U16?U19: Mark DeSimone. ...White Plains Plainesmen will hold a Summer Puck Skills Session on Tuesdays, July 8 through August 19 for ages 9 to 14 and 6 and 7 year olds at Ebersole Ice Arena. This is off-ice. Contact Michael Stephenson, mstephen1b@verizon.net for information.

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NY Bobcats Take Championship

T

he NY Bobcats won the U20 championship at the Eastern Hockey League’s Inaugural Spring Showcase.

Here is the Press Release: The New York Bobcats claimed the U20 Championship at the Eastern Hockey League’s inaugural Spring Showcase.

The Bobcats rolled through the division and the playoffs -- going 5-0 -- without a blemish and gave up only six goals during the event, including two shutouts.

In its first game, New York blanked the expansion Vermont Lumberjacks, 5-0, and then went on to outscore the New Hampshire Jr. Monarchs and Philadelphia Revolution, 14-1, in the next two contests.

The Bobcats advanced to playoff round where they defeated the Hartford Jr. Wolfpack, 4-1, in the semifinals and then beat the Boston Jr. Ranges in the championship, 4-2.

Corey Kennedy led the way for New York with eight points, and his six assists was atop the entire showcase. Tyler Bullard had a strong debut as well, as he posted three goals and fours assists for seven points in five games played.

Veterans Carlos Ross and Sean Geary also played well, contributing with six and five points, respectively. CJ Totillo chipped in with four goals also.

Goalie Justin Kapelmaster, who came on strong for the Bobcats towards the end of the 2013-14 season, played in all five games and posted two shutouts along the way.

“Overall the coaching staff was extremely happy with the weekend. Obviously winning is great but more importantly it was an opportunity for us to evaluate some players both new and old. It also gave us the ability to interact with and coach some of the players we are recruiting,” said general manager and assitant coach, Craig Doremus.

“I would like to commend EHL staff members Mark Kumpel and Jeff Nygaard for putting together the first ever EHL Spring showcase. We believe the showcase will continue to grow and we look forward to being a part of it for years to come.”

East Hockey / Page 27

Kerr Honored

B

obcat Kevin Kerr was inducted into the North Bay Sports Hall of Fame.

“Kevin Kerr became the all-time goal scorer in minor pro hockey in 2005, when he scored his 664th goal in just over a 1,000 minor professional games over some 18 seasons,” Jacko said in a media release.

“He also played roller hockey and helped Canada win a pair of world in-line titles and Pan-Am Games gold. We look forward to his induction in May.” Kerr, the son of multi-sport athlete Ted Kerr, played his minor hockey in the West Ferris program, mostly for Butch Turcotte, and when he scored 45 goals for the Pinehill midgets in 1983, he was given a tryout by Bert Templeton and made the roster of the OHL’s North Bay Centennials a year before he was draft eligible.

After the 16-year-old recorded 26 points and 138 penalty minutes in 66 games for the Cents, he was drafted by the OHL’s Windsor Spitfires and over the next three seasons carded 186 points and 841 penalty minutes before being drafted 56th overall in 1986 by the NHL’s Buffalo Sabres, who determined the fivefoot-10, 190-pound feisty forward wasn’t ready for the NHL. Kerr spent most of his first three professional seasons with Rochester of the American Hockey League, where he played 151 games, picked up 39 goals and 72 points while spending 722 minutes in the penalty box.

His professional career started in 1987 and when

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it concluded in 2005, he had played 1,193 games, scored 718 goals, added 700 assists for 1,418 points and 3,915 penalty minutes. Kerr averaged 1.19 points a game and 3.28 penalty minutes per contest.

He played in 14 different cities in six leagues -- the AHL (44 goals), the United Hockey League (243) International Hockey League (32), Colonial Hockey League (262), East Coast Hockey League (119) and West Coast Hockey League (18). He played for teams in Fort Wayne, Phoenix, Portland, Cincinnati, Quad City, Mobile, Birmingham, Toledo, Rockford, Utica and

East Hockey / Page 28 Elmira as well as Rochester, Kalamazoo and Flint.

He played with Flint Generals in the COHL and UHL -- scored 382 goals for them as well -- and helped them to the COHL championship in 1996 and won the league MVP award. He did the same with Flint in 1994, when he scored 64 goals.

After retiring as an active player with United Hockey League’s Kalamazoo Wings in 2005 at age 38, he spent a year as a head coach with the NOJHL North Bay Skyhawks, was an assistant with Flint’s UHL team and then coached junior hockey in Atlanta and Vermont.

Kerr used to reside in Woodstock, Ga., where he was arena manager and hockey coach. He is currently the head coach of the New York Bobcats, based out of Long Island, in the Eastern Hockey League.

While playing pro hockey in the winter, Kerr often spent the off-season playing roller hockey in California, Florida and Virginia, winning a pair of titles. He played for Canada and won two world in-line championships and helped this country take gold in the PanAm Games.

Photo/Article Courtesy: Nugget.ca

Photos from New York State Tournament in Amherst March 2014

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North Hockey

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North Hockey / Page 30

News and Notes from the North...

...Clifton Park will hold a Varsity Development Program July 9 through August 27 for players from eighth grade through senior year. ...Plattsburgh Youth Hockey will hold their Golf Tournament on August 3 at Noon. Check website for additional information. ...Adirondack Hockey will hold tryouts for the ...Saratoga will hold summer camps with regisupcoming season on August 16 and 17 and 23 tration materials on their website. The summer and 24 for Bantam A; September 13 and 14 for program will fun July 7 through August 21 for PeeWee A and Squirt A and September 20 and 21 squirt, pee wee, bantam and midget 1. for Squirt A and PeeWee A. Registration is open ...Troy Albany will hold tryouts June 29 and Auand available on-line. gust 9. ...Artic Foxes Women’s Hockey will be holding ...Schenectady Youth Hockey is holding a 3 on 3 tryouts in the early Fall. They play out of Clifton Challenge July 14 through August 25. InformaPark and registration information/forms is availtion at their website. able on their website. ...Bethlehem Hockey will hold their summer skills clinic July 14 to August 25 for mites, squirt, NY HOCKEY peewees and bantams. Go to their website for more information.

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Northern New York Men’s College Hockey Report

by Warren Kozireski

Wkozires@brockport.edu

CLARKSON

Head coach Casey Jones was named Vice-President for Sponsorships for the American Hockey Coaches Association, replacing Providence College head coach Nate Leaman.

Alumnus David Leggio ‘08 (Williamsville) was added to the 25-man roster for the 2014 U.S. Men’s National Team, which competed at the International Ice Hockey Federation Men’s World Championship on May 9-25 in Minsk, Belarus.

Leggio played for the Hershey Bears in the American Hockey League this past season. In 45 regular season games, he posted a .913 save percentage and a 2.63 goals against average.

PLATTSBURGH

Barry Roytman (Staten Island) was named the male recipient of the school’s Dr. Richard D. Semmler Award. A four-year member of the men’s hockey team, Roytman is a business and finance major with a 3.75 GPA. The defenseman has been named to the Dean’s List six times and was awarded the SUNY Chancellor’s ScholarAthlete Award this spring. He has been selected to the SUNYAC All-Academic Team three times and earned Commissioner’s List recognition as a junior.

POTSDAM

Mike Arnold was named team Most Valuable Player and Ryan Miller the Coaches’ Award at the school’s year-end athletic banquet.

Massena native and former SUNY Potsdam men’s hockey coach Tim Long, 73, passed away on Sunday, May 11, 2014. Coach Long spent five seasons (1983-88) as John Horan’s top assistant, helping to establish the still young program’s legitimacy in college hockey.

North Hockey / Page 31

Long helped Coach Horan amass 59 wins during his time with the team. During his five seasons Brian Bell (1985), Dave Palmisano (1985) and Howie Vandermast (1987) became the first three All-Americans in Potsdam hockey history. The Long era also included eight All-SUNYAC selections and two SUNYAC Players of the Year.

ST. LAWRENCE

A two game home series against WCHA champion and NCAA tournament entry Ferris State in midOctober is one of the highlights of St. Lawrence University’s men’s nonleague hockey schedule for 2014-15.

The Saints will open the season with nine non-league games, including a home and home non-league series with archrival Clarkson, before starting ECAC play Nov. 7-8 at Brown and Yale.

SLU will open its season with an Oct. 4 exhibition game against Carleton University and start NCAA play on Oct. 10 when it is the first visiting team in the opening of RIT’s new hockey facility. The Saints will play at Niagara on the 11th and at Vermont on Oct. 14 before their NCAA home openers with Ferris State on Oct. 17-18.

The Saints travel to Miami (Ohio) for a two game set Oct. 24-25 before hosting Clarkson in the first of the two non-league games on Oct. 31. The two teams will play a rematch in Potsdam on Nov. 1.

League play starts at Brown and Yale on Nov. 7-8 with a road trip to Colgate and Cornell the following weekend. The Saints will host Princeton and Quinnipiac for home league openers Nov. 21-22 before having the Nov. 28-29 weekend off.

The first league game with Clarkson is scheduled for Appleton Arena on Dec. 6 with a non-league rematch with Vermont at Appleton on Dec. 13.

The Saints will conclude their non-league schedule with a pair at Northeastern on Jan. 2-3 and resume league play the following weekend with Cornell and Colgate in Canton. A road set at Dartmouth and Harvard Jan. 16-17 and home games against Yale and Brown Jan. 23-24 lead up to the league rematch with Clarkson on Jan. 31.

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for community.

The criteria of the award is that the nominee assists the Division of Student Affairs in reaching its mission by exemplifying one or more of its core values. Certificates were given to all honorees.

The Plattsburgh State women’s hockey team was also bestowed with a Vision Award for exby Janet Schultz cellence after securing the program’s third naJanet@nyhockeyonline.com tional championship during a fantastic 2013-14 campaign. Led by 2014 STX/AHCA Division Clarkson III Women’s Coach of the Year Kevin Houle and Vanessa Gagnon was named to the 2014 Laura Hurd Award-winning senior goalCapital One/coSida Academic All tender Sydney Aveson, the Cardinals rolled to a District Team for the second time.

28-1-1 record and scored a 9-2 win over Norwich Gagnon is a repeat winners of the University at the Ronald B. Stafford Ice Arena to honor. It was the second straight year earn the title of national champions. that Clarkson University has earned Along the way, the Cardinals maintained eight all-district honors from Capital One/CoSI- their status of the No. 1-ranked team in the nation DA, the most that the school has ever received. from the very first 2013-14 poll until the final one.

Gagnon continues to add to her long list of Aveson became the owner of 11 Plattsburgh State accolades this season. An assistant captain for goaltending records during her final season as a Clarkson’s National Champion Women’s Hockey collegian in which she racked up a 22-1-1 record. team, Gagnon was also the recipient of the Sarah Her goals-against average of 0.57 was the best in Devens Award, ECAC Hockey’s Mandi Schwartz Division III and she also set NCAA single-season Student-Athlete of the Year and an NCAA Elite records with a .971 save percentage and 14 shut89 award winner. The senior forward scored 18 outs. goals, including five game-winners, and 15 assists along with boasting a +43 plus/minus rating to help the Golden Knights win the University’s first-ever NCAA Championship title this past March.

North Women’s College Report

Plattsburgh

The Plattsburgh State department of athletics was well-represented at the Vision Awards ceremony held by the Division of Student Affairs.

The Cardinals’ women’s basketball and women’s hockey teams received Vision Awards for excellence after their great seasons while Mike Mitchell of men’s basketball took home a Vision Award

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West Hockey

Tyler Mancusco is heading to The Brick Tournament with Team Pennsylvania.

Story on Page 8

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West Hockey / Page 34

Buffalo Seniors Win 8th Bowman Cup (Press release from Buffalo Sabres)

T

he Buffalo team of high school seniors found just enough willpower to come out ahead of Rochester. Buffalo emerged victorious by a final score of 3-2 to take home the Bowman Cup for the eighth time in 10 meetings.

Buffalo forward Joseph Langer (Lewiston Porter) provided the eventual game-winner at the start of the second half, and Connor Fields (Bishop Timon/St. Jude) and Steve Skinner (Canisius) also scored in the victory. Goaltender Nate Sommers (Niagara Wheatfield) kept Rochester scoreless for the majority of the first half, and Justin DiChristopher (Lancaster) and Peter Chopra (St. Joe’s) also turned in strong showings for Buffalo.

The game started with an extremely unlikely bounce that put Buffalo on the boards first. While Rochester goaltender Connor Greene (Gates Chili) expected a Buffalo shot to go around the boards, the puck ended up right in front of the net, and Fields tapped in the puck past an unsuspecting Greene.

A back-and-forth first half ensued, but Buffalo was able to make it a 2-0 game just past the halfway mark of the period. Tyler Trubish (Williamsville East) carried the puck into the Rochester zone and blasted a shot on net. Greene made the initial save, but Skinner crashed the net from his defensive position and put the rebound in the back of the net.

With five minutes to play in the first half, Rochester finally got a tally on the board. Alex Whitehair (Hilton) ripped a slap shot from the left point over the glove of DiChristopher. Brandon Henshaw (Brockport) and Mike Capicotto (McQuaid) assisted on the first Rochester goal.

The game-winning goal came at the 3:57 mark of the second half. Buffalo forward Robert McNamara (Kenmore East) worked the puck away as Rochester was setting up behind the net. The puck eventually found its way to Trubish, whose wraparound beat the leg of Rochester goaltender Ryan Schirano (Spencer-

port).

Rochester stepped up the pressure significantly after Trubish’s goal, but the Buffalo squad was up to the challenge. Two of Rochester’s best chances came from talented forward Tim Foster (Pittsford).

It was not until the 16:13 mark of the second half that Rochester was able to narrow the lead to one. Connor Rotenberg (Brighton) drove the puck to the net, and Ernie Clement (Brighton) put the rebound past Chopra to make it a 3-2 hockey game.

While all the goaltenders played exceptionally in the game, the end of the contest saw a couple of defensemen make big saves for their team with the Bowman Cup on the line. When Buffalo’s Tyler Riter (Orchard Park) found McNamara all alone in front, Rochester goaltender Tim Brei (McQuaid) was caught out of position. Lucky for him, defenseman Aidan Conolly (Spencerport) was there to bail out his goaltender, getting down in the crease to make the save.

Rochester pulled their goaltender to make a frenetic push in the final minute. Rochester’s Cody Howatt (Fairport) had a perfect chance from the slot to tie the game with less than 20 seconds to play, but Skinner got in place to block the shot and was in obvious pain after doing so.

While this was a much closer contest than last year’s 9-0 blowout, the end result was the same as Buffalo’s high school seniors were crowned Bowman Cup champions.

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Photos from New York State Tournament in Amherst March 2014

Around the West ...Amherst recognized Jim Wistner as the 2013-14 House Coach of the Year and Tim Digiulio and Darren Palaszewski as the 2013-14 Travel Coaches of the Year. Digiulio, Palaszewski and Jeff Hughes were inducted into the Amherst Hall of Fame. Brad Bailey received the Heinz Maier Scholarship and the Jim Cavagnaro Award went to Michael Mostowy. ...The Chautauqua Youth Hockey Association recognized their seniors including Tyler Bell (Southwestern HS, 9 yrs. hockey with CCYHA); Emma Blasius (Southwestern, 6 yrs), Erik Daugharthy (Eisenhower, 10 yrs), Tommy Fales (Falconer, 9 yrs), Andy Farnham (Maple Grove, 10 yrs), Tommy

Gerace (Home schooled, 13 yrs), Zach Hammond (Maple Grove, 7 yrs), Rick Hasselman (Warren, 11 yrs), Billy Krywy (Jamestown, 12 yrs), Thomas Sirianno (Maple Grove, 8 yrs), Nate Stephens (Maple Grove) and Gib Stuart (Falconer). Our best wishes to these scholar/athletes. ...North Chautauqua Hockey recognized Coach Jay Bishop for his accomplishments this season with the Varsity Steelers who went tothe WNY Blue Division with a 13-2-1 record. They won the Best of the West Tournament and four players were selected All Stars. ...Rochester Red Wings Grizzlies team is looking for players at the U18 level. ...Rochester Youth Hockey has announced they will not form a second AA travel Bantam team as previously discussed. As interest grows at that level there will be ad-

ditional discussion. ...Tonawanda Lightning has named their coaches for the upcoming season. They include: Girls U12: Chris Marze, head; Joe Short, manager.

Squirt Minor: Shawn Tracey, head; Marc Sempert, manager.

Squirt Major: Brian Busch, head; Dan Herr, manager Pee Wee Minor: Sean McPhee, head, Chris Rasulo, manager Pee Wee Major: PJ Monahan, head; Justin Ghosen, manager Bantam Minor: Tim Jones, head; Liane Reardon, manager Bantam Major: Sam DeFranks, head; Julie DeFranks, manager Midget 15: Don Pray, head; Joe Short, manager Midget 16: Darryl McLaughlin, head; Mark Dickerson, manager ...Webster President Todd Van Dyne has resigned his position due to his growing business.

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BUFFALO STATE

Western New York Men’s College Hockey Report

Goaltender Kevin Carr was awarded the Hube Coyer Awards for outstanding career athletic accomplishments at the Bengals annual end-of-year event.

Carr, who also was selected as team MVP, capped off his fouryear career as the Bengals’ starting goalie becoming just the second All-American in the history of the program, capturing third team accolades. He as a four-time All-SUNYAC performer, including collecting first team honors as a freshman and senior and ended his career with 10 school records. Carr owns the single season school marks for: shutouts (3 - twice); save percentage (.929); goals against average (2.52), wins (13); and games played (27). He also owns the career records for shutouts (9); saves (3,225); save percentage (.921); wins (45); and games played (104).

CANISIUS

by Warren Kozireski

Wkozires@brockport.edu

NIAGARA

Alumni Vince Rocco (‘09) and Dan

Sullivan (‘09) competed for Italy at the 2014 International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) World Championship in Belarus.

Trevor Large, a veteran assistant coach in Atlantic Hockey for eight seasons, and Scott Moser, a former forward with the program, have been named assistant coaches.

Large spent the last six seasons at Army, serving as the program’s assistant coach, recruiting coordinator and video coordinator.

Prior to joining the Black Knights, Large spent two seasons at American International College from 2006 to 2008.

Large played four seasons at Ferris State from 2000 to 2004.

He totaled 33 points, 19 goals and 14 assists in 129 career games, helping the Bulldogs to the 2003 CCHA regularseason championship and first-ever NCAA Tournament appearance.

Moser returns to Buffalo after spending the 2013-14 season at St. Lawrence as Director of Hockey Operations with the women’s team. Moser captained the Griffs during the 2011-12 campaign. He appeared in 134 career games with 59 points, 23 goals and 36 assists. A two-time recipient of the team’s Dr. David B. Dietz Award as a player who shows both athletic and scholastic dedication, Moser was a nominee for the Hockey Humanitarian Award in 2011 and the Derek Hines Unsung Hero Award in 2012.

2013-14 team MVP Ben Danford has signed with Strasbourg of France’s Ligue Magnus. Danford led all Canisius defensemen in scoring in each of his four seasons during his standout career. He never missed a single game in his tenure, playing in all 158 contests since first arriving on campus.

His streak is the longest in the school’s history and also the 13th-longest in NCAA history.

R.I.T.

The Tigers announced their captain for the 2014-15 season in senior forward Matt Garbowsky with senior Brad McGowan along with juniors Alexander Kuqali and Andrew Miller serving as assistant captains.

Garbowsky served as an assistant captain in 2012-13 and was RIT’s captain last season. Last season, Garbowsky was limited to just 13 games played due to injury, recording seven points on two goals and five assists. With Garbowsky out of the lineup, RIT was just 8-13-3.

McGowan played in all 37 games for the Tigers last season, recording 21 points on five goals and 16 assists along with the game-winning overtime goal in game one of the Atlantic Hockey Association First Round Series over Holy Cross.

Kuqali tallied 10 points on two goals and eight assists in 36 games on the blueline. On Nov. 23, Kuqali set a RIT Division I team record with a plus-6 rating in a 6-4 win over St. Lawrence.

Miller is one of RIT’s top penalty-killers, having appeared in 34 games in each of the last two seasons. Last year, he recorded a goal and five assists after tallying two goals and four assists in 2012-13. Miller and the RIT penalty-killing unit finished the 2013-14 season having allowed just six power-play goals in its final 17 games, killing off 70 of its final 76 shorthanded attempts.

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Western New York Women’s College Hockey Report

by Janet Schultz Janet@nyhockeyonline.com JDSchultz3663@gmail.com

RIT

RIT raised over $8,800 for Autism Up from their jersey raffle. The team wore the specially-designed jerseys at their January 25 Skate for the Cure and then auctioned them off on-line later in the season.

The defending College Hockey America RIT women’s hockey team unveiled its schedule for the 2014-15 season on Friday, May 30. The Tigers, who enter their third season at the Division I level, will play 34 regular season games. RIT will play 16 regular season home games and one exhibition contest in its inaugural season at the 4,200-seat Gene Polisseni Center.

“We are ready to open up play in the Polisseni Center, which will be exciting for not only our players, staff, fans but the Rochester Community as well,” said ninth-year RIT head coach Scott McDonald.

RIT competes in College Hockey America, alongside Lindenwood, Mercyhurst, Penn State, Robert Morris, and Syracuse. The Tigers will play four games against each opponent, two at home, and two on the road, and is eligible for the NCAA Tournament for the first time as a Division I program. Last year, the Tigers enjoyed a magical run, winning their final seven games, including a 2-1 double overtime win over top-seed Mercyhurst to win the CHA Championship. The Tigers were ineligible for the NCAA Tournament due to a two-year probationary period from moving from Division III to Division I. “As always, we are excited to play a full CHA schedule,” said McDonald, who is 171-53-18 at RIT. “The league is incredibly competitive and we are excited to defend our championship, and now since we are eligible for NCAA’s,

West Hockey / Page 37 have a chance to get in.”

On Monday, Sept. 29, RIT hosts the Pursuit of Excellence Hockey Academy out of British Columbia in an exhibition contest that opens the Polisseni Center at 7 p.m.

RIT opens regular season play at the Polisseni Center with a pair of games against Union on Oct. 3-4 and host New Hampshire on Oct. 10 and Northeastern the following afternoon.

The Tigers travel to Vermont on Oct. 17-18, and go to Brown University for a pair of games the following weekend. In November, RIT heads to New Jersey for two games against Princeton, and close out the month with two contests at Rensselaer. The Tigers close out the 2014 calendar year with two home contests against perennial power North Dakota on Dec. 12-13 at the Polisseni Center.

“Our competitive non-conference schedule will help us prep for league play,” said McDonald. “We play at least one team from each of the three other conferences. Playing new opponents every year will continue to grow our program by seeing different venues, and campuses.”

RIT plays 20 games against conference foes, including its final 12 regular season contests. The Tigers open league play with two home games against Lindenwood University on Oct. 31 and Nov. 1, then go west to play the Lady Lions in a pair of games on Jan. 30-31. RIT hosts Penn State, also in its third season as a Division I program in a pair of games at the Polisseni Center on Nov. 14-15 before traveling to Pegula Ice Arena for two games on Jan. 16-17.

RIT defeated Penn State in the 2013 and 2014 CHA First Round playoff rounds en route to a 10-0-2 mark against them over the last two years.

The Tigers return to Mercyhurst Ice Center, where they won the 2014 CHA Championship for a pair of contests against NCAA Frozen Four participant Mercyhurst University on Nov. 21-22. The Lakers come to the Polisseni Center for two games on Feb. 6-7. The Lakers have made nine straight NCAA Tournament appearances and are 159-12-11 all-time in CHA play.

RIT will play four games against rival Robert Morris in a span of five weeks. The Tigers host Robert Morris to ring in 2015 on Jan. 9-10, and travel to play the Colonials on Feb. 13-14. RIT plays a road contest at on Dec. 5, a home game against the Orange on Jan. 23 and closes out the regular season with a home and home series against the Orange, away on Feb. 20 and home the following afternoon. RIT went 3-1 against Syracuse last season.

(Continued on next page)

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West Hockey / Page 38

Where Are They Going?

by Janet Schultz Janet@nyhockeyonline.com The WNYGVIH Federation will be heading into its fifth season in 2014-15. So where are the girls headed who graduated this season?

Kenmore: Jill Battista has signed a letter of intent for Merrimack College. Their season opens in Fall 2015.

Lancaster/Iroquois: Caitlin Horvatits is going to Buffalo State College to play hockey.

Meghan Fonfara, Elmira College, hockey Amherst/Sweethome: Missy Mallon, Buffalo State, hockey

Madison Kather, Clarkson College, soccer

Maddie Grisko: Buffalo State or RIT

Emily Bitka, University of Albany, LaCrosse

Bri Stressinger, Buffalo State Katelyn Koester, Still deciding

(This is what I had at press time, let me know if there are more)

(RIT continued from previous page)

The 2014 College Hockey America playoffs begin with a best-of-three series for the third through sixth place finishers from Feb. 27-March 1. The top two teams get a first round bye. The CHA Tournament Semifinals and Championship will be held on March 6-7 at the home of the regular season champion. RIT will look for its second straight league title and this time compete in the NCAA Tournament. The Tigers return 17 players from last season’s squad that finished 20-15-3.

Season and single game ticket information will be

released in the upcoming weeks at www.ritathletics.com and www.rithockey.com.

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West Hockey / Page 39

Buffalo Juniors Beat Rochester In Shootout (Buffalo Sabres Press Release)

he first game of the Bowman Cup series required an extra period and more to determine a winner, but the Buffalo high school juniors proved victorious over Rochester with a 4-3 shootout victory.

Michael Benaquist (West Seneca East) led the way for the Buffalo squad with two goals in the contest, and Adam Tobias (West Seneca West) scored the lone goal in the eight-round shootout.

It took over 10 minutes to find the first goal of the game, but the Rochester juniors opened the scoring with an unassisted goal from Michael Campbell (McQuaid). Campbell outworked the Buffalo defense and buried a backhand past Buffalo goaltender Max Battistoni (Williamsville East).

Rochester extended their first-half lead to two goals at the 13:54 mark of the first period. Battistoni got a piece of a point shot from Cameron Krug (Fairport), but Rochester forward Brandon Corey (Spencerport) buried the puck after it trickled behind the Buffalo netminder.

Buffalo had two excellent chances to break the Rochester shutout late in the first. Benaquist broke free for a breakaway with 5:30 left in the first, but Rochester goaltender Patrick Massey (Penfield) stood tall to make the save.

Four minutes later, Buffalo forward Andrew Husted (Grand Island) got his own chance in close after outworking a Rochester defenseman. However, goaltender Christian Portland (Victor) was up to the task and kept Rochester’s shutout bid intact through the first half.

It took just 46 seconds of the second half for Buffalo to find the back of the Rochester net. Defenseman Brian Wasilewski (West Seneca East) sprung a twoon-one opportunity for Benaquist and Brendan Hart (Hamburg). Benaquist snuck the puck over to Hart, whose return pass found Benaquist alone on the back door for a tap-in goal.

Buffalo’s Sam Rydzewski (North Tonawanda) had a golden opportunity to tie the game just three min-

utes after the first Buffalo goal, but Portland made a gorgeous save, swatting the puck out of mid-air with his glove just as it was about to cross the goal line.

Rydzewski would not be denied twice in a row, as he buried a rebound past Rochester goaltender Ryan Beutel (Webster Schroeder) at the 9:16 mark of the second half.

When Buffalo needed to gain the lead in the game, it was Benaquist who cashed in after a nice pass from Hart set up a breakaway chance. Buffalo’s lead would be short lived, as Rochester’s Joe Schuler (Schroeder) worked the puck into the Buffalo zone and ripped a wrist shot over the shoulder of goaltender Kyle Painter (North Tonawanda) to tie the game at three. Despite numerous scoring chances over the final eight minutes of regulation, that score carried over into an overtime period.

The goaltenders were the brightest stars in the overtime period, as Beutel and Painter were both required to make a number of point blank saves, including a breakaway stop each way.

Beutel and Painter kept their stellar play going throughout the shootout, as each goaltender stopped the first seven shooters they faced. In the end, though, it was Tobias’ wrist shot that found the back of the net and clinched the Tim Horton Memorial Cup for the Buffalo high school juniors.

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Gabriel’s OT Snipes Seals Prep Win For Buffalo

(Buffalo Sabres Press Release)

T

he highest level of competition during the Bowman Cup series is at the prep/junior level, and Buffalo and Rochester provided an electrifying contest that required an extra period to complete.

Buffalo emerged on top by a score of 4-3 in overtime, completing the sweep of all three games in Wednesday’s action at First Niagara Center.

Josh Gabriel (Buffalo Jr. Sabres Jr. A) scored the game-winning goal 2:02 into overtime and added an assist on the tying goal. Aaron Reinig (Buffalo Jr. Sabres 18U), Dennis Gilbert (Buffalo Jr. Sabres Jr. A) and Eric Szczecinski (Nichols) also scored for the victorious Buffalo squad.

The first goal of this contest was scored by Rochester after a fast-paced opening. Brandon Hutchison (Buffalo Jr. Sabres 18U) advanced the puck into the Buffalo zone while dodging three defenders before burying a backhand past Buffalo goaltender Anthony Tirabassi (Nichols).

With Rochester defenseman Ryan Fritz in the penalty box for cross-checking, Buffalo used the power play to tie the game. Buffalo’s Michael Ederer (Buffalo Jr. Sabres Jr. A) used some crafty work along the boards to free up Reinig, whose wrist shot made it through multiple skaters and Rochester goaltender

Jordan Severo (Bell Tire 18U).

The high-flying first half continued as Buffalo took their first lead of the contest at the 16:26 mark of the first half. As forward Ben Sharf (Loomis Chaffee) carried the puck over the Rochester blue line, Gilbert rushed into the play and snapped a shot past goaltender Shane Fuller (Rochester Americans 18U).

The Buffalo lead would be short lived, as it took just 48 seconds for Rochester to bring the game back to a tie. Off a two-on-one, Rochester’s Teddy McCabe (Buffalo Jr. Sabres 18U) fed Anthony DePetres (Aquinas) with a pass across the slot, and DePetres capitalized, putting a shot past Buffalo goaltender Tucker Weppner (Avon

Old Farms) low to the glove side.

While the action continued at both ends, Rochester was able to put a second goal past Weppner. Brandon Henshaw found the puck behind the net and was able to sneak a shot in between the left post and Weppner after a number of attempts.

Rochester would hold the lead about eight more minutes, but a cross checking penalty to Nick Boyd gave Buffalo another chance on the power play. In need of a tying goal, Buffalo found it from Szczecinski. Set up by Joe Cecconi (Muskegon - USHL) and Gabriel, the goal turned out to be the last one of regulation.

While Buffalo had tied the game and could have played for overtime, they continued to find quality scoring chances from Jake Smith (Nichols) and Cameron Radziwon (Buffalo Jr. Sabres 18U).

Rochester goaltender Lawson Fenton (Rochester Americans 18U) was phenomenal over the final seven minutes of regulation and overtime, but in the end it was Gabriel whose game-winning goal on a heavy wrist shot secured the Rick Martin Memorial Cup for the Buffalo prep/junior team.

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USA Hockey / Page 41

Construction continues as three arenas in NYS plan to open in Fall 2015. Left--Buffalo’s HARBORCENTER; Top--RIT’s Polisseni Center and Bottom--Lockport Ice!

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Photos from New York State Tournament in Amherst March 2014

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