NYHOL September 2016

NY HOCKEY SEPTEMBER 2016

VOLUME 5 ISSUE 10

N3AHL USA Women’s Featival College Previews NewEdge Success NHL Season News WBHL NWHL Local Tourneys Local Arena Upgrade

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In This Issue... ...Buffalo Regals.....................62 ...Buffalo Sabres....................... 7 ...Buffalo Stars........................51 ...Central Section...................26 ...East Section.........................34 ...Hebner On Hockey............19 ...Hockey and Senator Ortt.. 5 ...NA3HL...................................23 ...NewEdge Success..............63 ...Next Level.............................55 ...North Section......................42 ...NWHL.....................................17 ...NY Islanders........................... 8 ...NY Rangers............................ 9 ...NYSAHA News....................16 ...Opladen Memorial.............. 4 ...OJHL.......................................15 ...Rochester Reno..................21 ...Rochester Rebels...............61 ...West Section.......................48 ...WBHL.....................................53 ...Womens Festival................11

Dear Reader:

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t’s hard to believe that summer has come and gone, but here we are with September upon us and the start of another hockey season. Training camps are just about ready to begin for junior hockey and pretty soon the NHL will start up as will the NWHL.

As we begin our sixth season of the magazine, we ask that you share it with your players and coaches.

Those of you receiving it are doing so because we use your Organization’s website and send to Board members only.

The magazine is really for the players and we do not have access to those emails. Anyone can subscribe, it’s FREE, by sending us their email address.

This issue is filled with a great deal of preseason stories from the college, junior, NWHL, NHL and teams from youth hockey.

Janet and I got the opportunity to travel up to Lake Placid to watch the women’s 2016 National Festival. We also got the chance to talk to seven of the players with New York State roots.

I wrote a couple of off-beat hockey features. The first is on Senator Robert Ortt and how hockey has played a big role in his life. The second had me catching up with former Major Leaguer Richie Hebner, now a coach with the Buffalo Bisons of the AAA International League.

We also got the opportunity to travel down the I-90 to see all of the improvements that have been made at the Bill Gray’s IcePlex. We also had a chance to catch up with Rob Sedia and his NewEdge Hockey Program, which you will read about in the West Section of the magazine.

As always, we thank our sponsors who continue to support our magazine. We ask you to support them as well.

As soon as you receive this magazine, please feel free to pass it along to others.

Send us your news, tournament dates, photos and any human interest stories about players and coaches.

To everyone, have a great hockey season and safe journeys to all who will be hitting the road.

Best Wishes, Randy Schultz Publisher and Managing Editor Randy@nyhockeyonline.com

NY Hockey On-Line (E-Magazine) 3663 Irish Road Wilson, New York 14172 716-751-6524 nyhockeyonline@ nyhockeyonline.com

Columnists Warren Kozireski, Wkozires@brockport.edu Janet Schultz Randy Schultz Rob Sedia Chuck Gridley

Publisher &Managing Editor Randy Schultz Randy@nyhockeyonline.com

NY Hockey OnLine is an equal opportunity employer.

Contents 2015-16 NY Hockey Online All rights reserved

Designer/Photographer Janet Schultz Janet@nyhockeyonline.com

NY Hockey OnLine is published monthly at no charge and can be accessed via the publication’s website www.nyhockeyonline.com

www.nyhockeyonline.com

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In Memory of Steve Opladen

ong-time West Section Youth Hockey Administrator (Monroe County Youth Hockey), Coach and Hockey Official Steve Opladen lost his battle with ALS in August.

Opladen passed at the age of 54. He was predeceased by his parents, Paul & Judith; son, Josh; parents-in-law, John & Helen Nasca.

Opladen is survived by his devoted wife, Janice Opladen; loving children, Patrick (Kristen Jones) Opladen, Alexander Opladen & Lauren Opladen; siblings, Christopher (Jack Robbins) Opladen, Veronica (Maurizio Guidi) Opladen, Susan (Jeff Grant) Opladen, Catherine Opladen, Anne (Matt) Steinberg & Theresa (Brian) Kletch; several nieces, nephews & cousins; loving family and dear friends.

He devoted his time to his family with hockey being his true passion. He was president of the Monroe County Youth Hockey Association, an active coach for over 21 years and an ice hockey referee. He enjoyed spending time with his family and friends. C

Anyone wishing to may make contributions to

Steven’s children’s college fund c/o Janice Opladen, 1075 Long Pond Road, Rochester, NY 14626, The Tyler Putnam Foundation at 115 Queens Lane, Rochester, New York 14617 or Monroe County Youth Hockey, 123 Ling Road, Rochester NY 14612. For more information and to sign his online guestbook, visit www. meesonfamily.com

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Your Source For NYS Hockey News!

NY HOCKEY E-Magazine

By Randy Schultz

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n the movie “Cutting Edge” the character Doug Dorsey (played by actor D. B. Sweeney), who portrays a former Olympic hockey player, is seen looking at a photo taken of himself smelling the ice. He remarks that when he would enter an ice arena he always liked to smell the ice because it had a certain odor.

While that may seem a bit strange to some people, to anyone who has spent a good portion of their lives in ice rinks it makes perfect sense.

One of those people it makes perfect sense to is Senator Robert G. Ortt, a New York State Senator for the 62nd District.

Ortt should know. He began skating at the age of two and hasn’t stopped even though a great deal of his time is spent serving the public he represents in the NYS Senate.

“I began skating on a pond with my dad at two,” recalled Ortt, a native of North Tonawanda. “I started playing organized hockey at five and played right on through my high school days.

“But even today when I walk into a hockey rink, there is that smell of the ice. It brings back a lot of hockey memories for me.

“To me, there is something relaxing about just smelling the ice. I don’t even have to be on skates to get that relaxing feeling.”

Ortt was a goalie who played for the Wheatfield Blades organization at, what was then known as “Sabreland, but what today is known as Hockey Outlet.

For nearly a decade and one-half Ortt played competitive hockey. He played high school hockey for St. Joeseph’s Collegiate Institute in Buffalo.

“My senior year (1996-97) we finished ranked number three in New York State,” remembered Ortt, who served ass Mayor of North Tonawanda prior to becoming a State Senator. “That was the year we won the Western New York Federation Championship, beating St. Francis to win it.”

One of the most influential people in Ortt’s hockey career was his dad, Robert Ortt Sr. “My dad was either my coach or an assistant coach for many, many years,” said Ortt, who resides with his wife, Meghan, in North Tonawanda. “And I now realize that it wasn’t easy being a dad, being the coach and having your son on the same team.”

One other individual that Ortt felt was very influential in his hockey career was his high school coach, John Mickler. The Senator recalled a defining moment in his hockey career in high school.

“I remember that championship game we were in, I believe we were down, 3-1,” commented Ortt. “I had just given up the third goal and it was what I thought a soft goal.

“I thought for sure that the coaches were going to pull me. I was at the far end of the ice and would have to make a longer skate past the oppositions bench to our bench.

“But Coach Mickler didn’t pull me. I heard later that he told the assistant coach on the team, “Bobby’s going to fight this one out.”

“I was always thankful that he believed in me enough to keep me in such a big game.

We did come back to win.

“And I appreciate that belief in me to this day.”

Why did Ortt become a goalie?

“Probably for the same reason I got into politics,” he replied jokingly. “I began the game as a defenseman who like to stop the puck.

“But I always looked at goalies as being the difference makers. I guess I just wanted to be the player who made the difference in a game.

“I know it can be a lonely position as well. So you can see how it relates to my political life today.”

Orrt also served in the NY Army National Guard. He is a veteran of Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan.

He is the recipient of the Bronze Star, the Army Commendation Medal, the Afghan Medal and the Combat Infantryman’s Badge of recognition of his service.

Hockey Plays A Big Role In Senator Ortt’s Life.

“I think being on team in hockey and learning the ‘team concept’ helped me when I entered the military and being on a ‘team’ in the army,” stated Ortt, the son of Suzette and Robert Ortt. “I also believe that the competitive spirit I picked up in hockey has helped me in my political career.

“I think a lot of what I learned as a hockey player has helped me in life. As a hockey player I had to be focused and disciplined.

“You have to be the same in life and the job I know have.”

Ortt tells a light-hearted story that happened to him while he was in Afghanistan.

“I was on a Canadian base,” said Ortt. “This was part of a NATO-led mission.

“At their camp the Canadian’s had constructed a street hockey rink. They had a league and there was a Canadian team and a US team.

“At another base about 40 miles from us there was another rink, as well as a Tim Horton’s that had been constructed there and operated and staffed by a group of Canadians. Just before I got there I found out that Don Cherry (of Hockey Night In Canada Fame) and Mats Sundin had just visited the base with the Stanley Cup.

“I travelled 7000 miles to a place most people don’t want to be in. But I was around Canadians and hockey.

“While we were still in danger and had to do battle, there was still some down time where you could take your mind off the situation, even if only for a few minutes.

“The military and hockey all in one deployment to Afghanistan. Pretty amazing.”

But Senator Ortt still has a “Dream Job” he would like someday.

“I would like to become Commissioner of the NHL,” remarked Ortt, who has a sister, Kori, who also played hockey. “I’ve always been interested in the business side of the League.

“I think from the business and marketing side of the game there is room for improvement. I enjoy things about the NHL like the draft, should they expand or not and even the salary cap.

“I care about the health of the League. I love the game so much that I want to see it be the best game it can be.

“You need somebody in that position that has the passion for the sport itself. And that passion has to go to the lowest levels of the game that includes youth hockey.

“In my dream scenario what a great job that would be.

I would love it.”

NY HOCKEY ONLINE MAGAZINE -YOUR SOURCE FOR ICE HOCKEY IN NYS!

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Buffalo Sabres Announce Pre- and Regular Season Schedules

he Buffalo Sabres announced the team’s 2016 preseason schedule. The team will play seven games, including two home games at First Niagara Center.

The Sabres will play four neutral-site contests, including a game at Pegula Ice Arena at Pennsylvania State University on Monday, Sept. 26 that will kick off the team’s preseason schedule.

The Sabres and Wild will become the first two professional teams to face off at Pegula Ice Arena since the arena’s opening on Oct. 11, 2013 as home of Penn State’s NCAA Division I men’s and women’s ice hockey teams. The 5,782-seat arena, which was funded as part of a $102 million donation by Sabres owners Terry and Kim Pegula, was planned in 2010 with the amenities required to host professional exhibition games.

The game at Pegula Ice Arena will mark the first time the Sabres have played a preseason game in a non-NHL arena since a 2011 exhibition game against Adler Mannheim (DEL) at SAP Arena in Mannheim, Germany. It will be the team’s first game against an NHL opponent in a non-NHL arena since the Sabres played against the Ottawa Senators in a Kraft HockeyvilleTM preseason matchup at J.L. Grightmire Arena in Dundas, Ontario on Sept.

28, 2010.

Below is the complete 2016 Buffalo Sabres preseason schedule (all times EST):

Oct. 5 Buffalo at Carolina 7 p.m.

Essar Center (Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario) Oct. 7 Buffalo at Ottawa 7 p.m.

Canadian Tire Centre

The Buffalo Sabres full 2016-17 regular-season schedule is available at sabres.nhl.com The Sabres open their season at home on Thursday, Oct. 13 against the Montreal Canadiens before embarking on the season’s first Western Conference road trip from Oct. 16 to 20 and then visiting Philadelphia on Oct. 25. Those four straight road games make up one of three four-game road trips for the Sabres in 2016-17, tying stretches in January and mid-March as the team’s longest road trips of the season. The team will play a season-high four straight home games twice, from Nov. 17 to 23 and Dec. 6 to 16.

Nearly half of Buffalo’s 41 home games will take place on either Thursday (11) or Saturday (9). The team will play six afternoon games at home this season

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Sept. 26 Buffalo vs. Minnesota 7p m ..

Pegula Ice Arena (Penn State University) Sept. 27 Buffalo vs. Ottawa

7p.m.

First Niagara Center Sept. 29 Buffalo at Toronto 7:30 p.m.

Meridian Centre (St. Catharines, Ontario) Sept. 30 Buffalo vs. Toronto 7 p.m.

First Niagara Center Oct. 4 Buffalo vs. Carolina 7 p.m.

Lakeview Arena (Marquette, Michigan)

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t’s been too long since we had Islanders hockey.

The season is still about two months away, but before then, there’s the World Cup of Hockey and training camp to help us through the home stretch. With the schedule already out and individual tickets set to go on sale on August 26, we’re planning out our winter accordingly. NewYorkIslanders.com is fired up for every game, but if we had to pick 10 games we’re really hyped for… well here they are:

for the Islanders.

Oct. 13 – Islanders at Rangers – Opening Night Talk about starting the season off with a bang!

Islanders-Rangers on opening night doesn’t even take us from 0-60. We’re literally starting the season at 60. No easing into this pool.

It should be a great night though. We all know what we’re getting; heated rivals, split crowd, lots of screaming and yelling. It’ll also be our first chance to see Andrew Ladd and Jason Chimera in Islanders jerseys and PA Parenteau back in the lineup. Add in the excitement of opening night and the fact that hockey is back. Couldn’t ask for more from a season opener.

Nov. 12 – Islanders at Panthers – Playoff Rematch

The way we feel about Tampa is probably the way Florida feels about us. This is the first Islanders-Panthers meeting since last year’s playoffs, which was a pretty close and intense series. Florida made some changes on the back end – in is Keith Yandle, out are Brian Campbell, Dmitry Kulikov and Erik Gudbranson – but there will be a lot of familiar faces up front. Plus, it’s another chance to watch Jaromir Jagr.

Oct. 16 – Islanders vs. Ducks – Home Opener The only thing better than watching hockey on TV is watching it live, with a whole bunch of like-minded people, yelling Yes! Yes! Yes! at the top of their lungs. The Islanders return home on Oct. 16 after starting the season on the road and it’s a can’t-miss event if you bleed blue and orange.

Nov. 1 – Islanders vs. Lightning – Playoff Rematch Travis Hamonic said losing to the Tampa Bay Lightning was all the motivation he needed to train hard this summer. He’s not happy about it and neither are we. It may just be the regular season, but this is the Islanders’ first chance to exact some revenge on the Bolts.

Islanders Top 10 (Games)

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Oct. 15 – Islanders at Capitals Not one, but two rivalry games to start the season!

The double-barrel start takes the Islanders to Washington D.C. for their second game of the season against a bitter rival. The hard feelings from their 2015 playoff series were evident on the ice last season and Washington’s status as Presidents’ Trophy winners makes them a measuring stick

Nov. 30 – Islanders vs. Penguins – Cup Champs Any visit from the Stanley Cup champions is a big game – and a measuring stick – but throw in a heated rivalry, national TV audience and this has the makings of a huge game. This rivalry has stayed hot ever since ‘Fight Night’ in 2011, with the teams meeting in the playoffs in 2013 and jockeying for position near the top of the Metropolitan Division over the past two seasons.

Dec. 6 – Islanders vs. Rangers Just our humble opinion, but these games are more

fun at home. Bring the noise and the Yes! Yes! Yes! The Returns: Oct. 30 (Matt Martin), Dec. 4 (Frans Nielsen) and Dec. 23 (Kyle Okposo) This summer saw the departure of three longtime Islanders. Kyle Okposo signed with the Buffalo Sabres, Frans Nielsen signed with the Detroit Red Wings and Matt Martin signed with the Toronto Maple Leafs. Nielsen and Okposo each played over 500 games with the Islanders, while Martin was a fan favorite for his hard style of play and work in the community. Needless to say, it’ll be an emotional night during their respective returns.

Martin is the first to come back (he’ll be joined by 2016 first-overall pick Auston Matthews) on Oct. 30.

Nielsen faces off against the Islanders on Dec. 4 and Okposo returns just before Christmas on Dec. 23.

NY Rangers Agree to Terms With Vesey, Gilmour

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16, including a goal in 18 of those contests.

Harvard posted a 17-6-1 record in games which Vesey notched a point, including a 15-2-1 record in contests which he registered a goal.

The 6-3, 203-pounder was also a finalist for the Hobey Baker Award during the 2014-15 season, as he established collegiate career-highs in games played (37), goals (32), assists (26), points (58), and plus/ minus rating (plus-23). Vesey led the NCAA in goals and goals per game (0.86), and he ranked third in the NCAA in points in 2014-15. He was selected to the NCAA (East) First All-American Team and was named the ECAC Hockey Player of the Year. Vesey notched a point in 34 of the 37 contests in which he played during the season, and he tallied a goal in 26 of those 37 games. In addition, Vesey helped Harvard win the ECAC Championship in 2014-15, and he was named Most Valuable Player of the ECAC Tournament.

Vesey skated in 128 career collegiate games over four seasons at Harvard (2012-13 – 2015-16), registering 80 goals and 64 assists for 144 points, along with a plus-17 rating and 66 penalty minutes. Over his last two seasons at Harvard, Vesey recorded 104 points (56 goals, 48 assists) in 70 games, averaging 0.80 goals per game and 1.49 points per game over the span. Vesey’s 56 goals in 2014-15 and 2015-16 led all collegiate players over the two seasons. In addition, he tallied a point in 58 of 70 games over his final two seasons of collegiate hockey, including a goal in 44 of those 70 contests. Vesey ranks fifth on Harvard’s all-time goals list and is tied for 12th on Harvard’s all-time points list.

Internationally, the North Reading, Massachusetts, native has represented the United States at several tournaments. Vesey helped the United States earn a gold medal at the 2013 IIHF World Junior Championship, as he tallied five points (one goal, four assists) in seven games while playing alongside current Ranger J.T. Miller. In addition, he recorded three assists in nine games while help-

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ew York Rangers General Manager Jeff Gorton announced that the team has agreed to terms with free agent forward Jimmy Vesey.

Vesey, 23, skated in 33 games with Harvard University this past season, registering 24 goals and 22 assists for 46 points, along with a plus-11 rating and six penalty minutes. He won the Hobey Baker Award as the top player in collegiate hockey in 2015-16, becoming the fourth player in Harvard’s history to win the award. Vesey ranked fourth in the NCAA in goals per game (0.73), tied for seventh in goals, and ranked eighth in points per game (1.39) in 2015-16. In addition, Vesey led Harvard in goals, points, and shots on goal (148), ranked second in power play goals (six) and game-winning goals (five), and tied for second in plus/minus rating this past season. He recorded a point in 24 of the 33 games in which he played in 2015-

ing the United States earn a bronze medal at the 2015 IIHF World Championship.

Vesey was selected by Nashville in the third round, 66th overall, of the 2012 NHL Entry Draft.

Gorton announced that the team has agreed to terms with free agent defenseman John Gilmour.

Gilmour, 23, skated in 34 games with Providence College this past season, registering nine goals and 14 assists for 23 points, along with a plus-three rating and 18 penalty minutes. He established collegiate career-highs in several categories in 2015-16, including goals, assists, and points, and he tied his collegiate career-high in plus/minus rating. Gilmour ranked fifth among NCAA defensemen in power play points (16), tied for fifth among NCAA defensemen in power play assists (12), and tied for eighth among NCAA defensemen in goals and power play goals (four) during the past season. In addition, he recorded 16 points (seven goals, nine assists) against Hockey East opponents in Buffalo Sabres continued from Page 7

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Saturday, Oct. 29 vs. Florida, 1 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 3 vs. Boston, 1 p.m.

Saturday, Jan. 7 vs. Winnipeg, 1 p.m.· Monday, Jan. 16 vs. Dallas, 1 p.m. (Martin Luther King Jr. Day)· Saturday, Feb. 18 vs. St. Louis, 1 p.m.

Sunday, April 2 vs. NY Islanders, 3 p.m.

The Sabres will play home-and-home sets against three different opponents in 2016-17, with back-to-back dates scheduled with the New Jersey Devils (Nov. 11 and 12), and the Columbus Blue Jackets (March 10 and 11), and two games in three days against the Boston Bruins (Dec. 29 and 31).

The season will end with 10 straight games against Eastern Conference opponents. Seven of those 10 games will be against Atlantic Division rivals, including each of the last four.

2015-16, helping Providence post a 16-3-3 record in intra-conference games.

The 6-0, 190-pounder skated in 141 career collegiate games over four seasons with Providence College (2012-13 – 2015-16), registering 22 goals and 43 assists for 65 points, along with a plus-eight rating and 85 penalty minutes. Gilmour helped Providence win the National Championship in 2014-15. In addition, Providence posted an 81-42-18 record in the games which Gilmour played during his collegiate career. Gilmour registered a plus/minus rating of even or better in each of his four seasons with Providence.

The Montreal, Quebec, native was selected by Calgary in the seventh round, 198th overall, of the 2013 NHL Entry Draft.

NY Women at USA ND Camp!

By Randy Schultz

(Pictured clockwise from top left: Emily Pfalzer, Maureen Murphy, Natalie Buchbinder, Taylar Cianfarano, Dana Trivigno, Jenny Ryan and Emma Seitz)

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SA Hockey announced that 95 players were invited to the 2016 USA Hockey Women’s National Festival, which took place August 8-14, at the Olympic Center in Lake Placid.

Of those 95 players, seven were from New York State. They included Natalie Buchbinder (Fairport, NY), Taylor Cianfarano (Oswego, NY), Maureen Murphy (Buffalo, NY), Emily Pfalzer (Getzville, NY), Jenny Ryan (Victor, NY), Emma Seitz (New York, NY) and Dana Trivigno (Setauket, NY).

The festival is an annual training session that was also used to select two 22-player rosters for a pair of series against Canada held simultaneously from August 17-21 in Calgary, Alberta, at Canada Olympic Park. The U.S. entries featured an Under-18 Select Team and Under-22 Select Team.

FESTIVAL ROSTER Twenty-one members of the U.S. Women’s National Team that won gold at the 2016 International Ice Hockey Federation Women’s World Championship and 21 members of the U.S. Women’s National Under-18 Team that won gold at the 2016 IIHF Under-18 Women’s World Championship took part in the festival.

Of the seven from NY that were at the festival, only four were selected to their respective teams.

Cianfarano was chosen for the U22 Team while Buchbinder, Murphy and Seitz were selected to the U18 team.

NY Hockey OnLine had a chance to talk to all of the young ladies at Lake Placid prior to the final selection. While it can be a disappointing finish for some, all of the players involved were very honored to have been chosen to participate in the festival.

Pfalzer is one of the veterans of the group. She currently plays for the Buffalo Beauts of the National Women’s Hockey League.

How does she handle the “veteran” status?

“Actually it’s kind of nice,” responded Pfalzer. “I

talked to a couple of U18 players on the way up here.

“They asked me questions and I told them what I would do and give them advice. But I still don’t know if I would call myself a veteran.”

With that said Pfalzer doesn’t rest on her past reputation or accomplishments.

“I still try to do my best and give it everything I’ve got,” stated Pfalzer. “I leave the decisions up to the coaches.”

Another veteran on the team is Trivigno. While part of her educational endeavors are behind her, there is still another chapter to be written.

“I graduated (from Boston College) with a dual degree,” said Trivigno. “Now I’m looking ahead at grad school and the beginning of law school.

“I would like to stay in the game as long as possible. And I know that I’m always learning.

“At every level I’ve compete at from high school through college I’ve always learned something. I remember talking with some of the Olympians I came in contact with.

“With all of that behind me I’m now try-

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Festival photos by Janet Schultz NY Hockey OnLine

ing to pass things I’ve learned on to younger players that are now coming up.”

Cianfarano looks at the tryout camp as an honor.

“I know what to expect when I come to these camps now,” remarked Cianfarano. “With a couple of 18U camps behind me I now know what to expect and how hard you have to work to make these teams.

“Being around the best girls in the country can only help you.”

For Seitz coming to Lake Placid has been quite the journey.

“It’s great to be able to play with such a great selection of players from across the board,” commented Seitz.

“It’s also good to make friends with people who are like-minded in hockey.

“I’m just a junior in high school, so I have a long way to go. I have a lot of dreams I want to accomplish and this is just another stepping stone to achieving them.”

Murphy is one of several play-

ers who have left their hometown and headed to Minnesota and Shattuck St. Mary’s School.

“My goal is to get to Providence College to play hockey,” said Murphy, who is in her senior year at Shattuck’s.

“Making any National teams will be good stepping stones.

“I think having professional hockey for women is a great thing and can only get better. It is something that I’m also looking at down the road.

“It’s great to meet some of the players that you’ve looked up to as a player. And now I find that they are ap-

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proachable and I can talk to them.

“It’s a great experience.”

Buchbinder is another Shattuck student and player (by way of Fairport).

“For me, making the National Teams is important and is a step closer to making the US Olympic Team, which I know is down the road,” said Buchbinder. “Originally I started out as a right winger.

“Now I’m a defenseman and that has really worked out well for me. I’ve really excelled at it.”

Ryan takes this camp as another stepping stone and learning experience.

“To be on the same ice as Olympians is always amazing,” concluded Ryan, who has “Miracle On Ice” player Mark Johnson as her coach. “Being at Wisconsin with Coach Johnson has been amazing.

“You forget sometimes the success he has had in his career. And now to be on the same ice he was back in 1980 when Team USA won gold, well, that is just as amazing.

“I see his name here up on the all with his other teammates and that is pretty cool.”

NY Hockey OnLine Magazine will begin its 6th Season!

Your Source For NYS Hockey News!

NY HOCKEY E-Magazine

We thank all of the organizations who have been supporting us with advertising, stores, photos and especially inviting us to their arenas and events.

Please continue to send us your news, especially tournament and special event dates. We will also accept your advertising at very reasonable rates.

NY Hockey OnLine is the source of youth/amateur hockey news in NY!

Contact Randy Schultz at Randy@nyhockeyonline.com or (716) 751-6524 or (716) (716) 870-4258 www.nyhockeyonline.com

OJHL NAMES GARBUTT August 8, 2016, Mississauga, Ontario – The Ontario Junior Hockey League (OJHL) announced that OJHL Manager of Hockey Operations Brent Garbutt has been promoted to Director of Hockey Operations and will be responsible in a leadership role for all aspects of the league’s hockey operations and events.

The native of Ottawa, Ontario has been the Manager of Hockey Operations since joining the OJHL in 2011, while also working for the National Hockey League (NHL) as a video coordinator in the league’s “war room” on game nights. Previously, Garbutt was the Manager of Hockey Operations for the ECHL in 2009 and spent time as an intern with NHL Central Scouting.

Recently named the Director of Hockey Operations for Team Canada East at the 2016 World Junior ‘A’ Challenge that will be held in Bonnyville, Alberta, he also held the same position at the 2014 tournament that was held in Kindersley, Saskatchewan. During the event, Garbutt went aboveand-beyond the normal call of duty in assisting with the tragic accident that happened to Team Canada East member Neil Doef and following the season, Garbutt was the inaugural recipient of the OJHL Chairman’s Award, presented to an individual who represents the core values of the OJHL.

“Brent has become an extremely valuable asset to the operations of the OJHL,” said OJHL Commissioner Marty Savoy.

“He has grown in his current position to the point where he is now able to take on a leadership role within all of the hockey operations of the OJHL. Brent will lead all aspects of player management, all operations for the OJHL’s Eastern Canada Cup entries, all operations of the Ontario Junior Development League (OJDL) and all new OJHL hockey initiatives.”

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Between Periods at Buffalo Sabres vs Dallas Game November 2015

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USA HOCKEY HELMET RULE Rule 304 | Protective Equipment (Note) Not all protective equipment is mandatory in all age classifications. However, if not mandated by rule, USA Hockey strongly recommends that all players and goalkeepers in all age classifications properly wear an internal mouthpiece, a HECC approved helmet and a HECC approved full facemask for all games and practices. (c) It is mandatory that all players (except Adults) wear a HECC approved helmet (including ear protection) with chin strap properly fastened.

(Note) HECC certification includes an expiration date on the sticker and a helmet that has an expiration date that has expired is no longer considered certified. The player may not wear a helmet that does not have a valid and current certification sticker.

NYSAHA NEWS

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... The 2016 West Section Fall Meeting will be held on Saturday, September 17, 2016, 10 a.m. at the Northtown Center @ Amherst in one of the Skyboxes.

NYSAHA Voter Delegate Rosters are due by the beginning of the meeting. ... USA Hockey will be presenting a Goaltender Coaching Clinic on Sept. 11 from 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. located at Northtown Center, Amherst NY. The clinic may be used for a Level 2, Level 3 or Level 3 recertification.

The cost for the clinic is $50.00. The clinic is open to anyone who wants to learn more about coaching the goalie position. This is the only goaltending coach clinic which will be offered in NY and one of the few in the entire country. If you’re interested or want more information you can find info on the USA Coaching Clinic page.

...Associations wishing to have news printed in NY Hockey OnLine should submit all material to Janet@ nyhockeyonline.com or contact Randy Schultz at (716) 870-4258.

Local Organizations...Your news is included in the appropriate NYS Section of this Magazine. We checked websites for news this month. Hereafter please forward your news, tournament announcements, fundraiser flyers and anything you want to share with the state.

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NWHL

BUFFALO BEAUTS ANNOUNCE PRACTICE PLAYERS FOR 2016-17 SEASON

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he Buffalo Beauts have signed their practice players for the 2016-2017 season, General Manager Ric Seiling announced. Morgan Beikirch (F), Jacquie Greco (D), Kelsey Neumann (G), Kayla Parsons (D), Ashley Vesci (F), and Hayley Williams (F) have agreed to practice player contracts.

All six Beauts practice players attended the Buffalo Free Agent Camp in June. Returning to the Beauts is Hayley Williams, a member of the inaugural season team who posted 2 points (1g, 1a) in 17 games in 201516.

Vesci and Beikirch are both graduates of Robert Morris University. During her career at RMU, Vesci scored 12 goals and 14 assists in 96 games played.

Beikirch netted 24 goals and 33 assists in 110 games played from 2005-2008.

Parsons, a Fairbanks, Alaska native, is a graduate of Norwich University, where she played 111 games and scored 68 points (16g, 52a). Greco skated in 124 games for Syracuse, where she collected 21 points (12g, 9a). Neumann played in net for SUNY Plattsburgh and Clarkson University during her college career.

Restricted free agency began on April 1 and lasted until April 30. Free agency began May 1 and ended July 31. The 2016 NWHL Draft was on June 18.

NWHL PARTNERS WITH YOU CAN PLAY

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he National Women’s Hockey League (NWHL) today announced a partnership with You Can Play beginning in the 2016-17 season.

“The league and our players have supported You Can Play since we launched last year and we’re honored to make a formal announcement today,” said NWHL Commissioner Dani Rylan. “The NWHL is committed to promoting LGBT equality and the respect of all of our athletes, fans, coaches, and staff.

Alongside the NHL, AHL, and CWHL, the hockey community can proudly say we are the most inclusive professional sport in the world.”

You Can Play is an organization dedicated to ensuring equality, respect, and safety for all athletes, without regard to sexual orientation and/or gender identity. You Can Play seeks to challenge the culture of locker rooms and spectator arenas by focusing only on an athlete’s skills, work ethic, and competitive spirit.

“Our partnership with the NWHL is extremely significant and sends a powerful message to athletes, young women in particular, that hockey is a place of respect and inclusion. The NWHL has already broken barriers to promote women’s equality in sports and will continue to do so as the first US women’s professional sports league to partner with You Can Play.

No matter who you are or who you love, the NWHL welcomes you,” stated Anna Aagenes, Vice President of Program Development & Community Relations for You Can Play.

As part of the league’s partnership with You Can Play, the Founding Four NWHL teams will each host a You Can Play Night during a home game where they will debut their team’s You Can Play Video. The NWHL and each NWHL team will actively show support on social media for You Can Play and their mis-

sion of ensuring respect and inclusion for everyone, including LGBT athletes, coaches, and fans.

Each team has also designated a You Can Play Ambassador to lead LGBT inclusion efforts throughout the season. Emily Pfalzer will represent the Beauts, Molly Engstrom will represent the Whale, Brittany Ott will represent the Pride, and Madison Packer will represent the Riveters.

“We want fans to know that the NWHL and its teams are committed to showing their public support for the LGBT community. We also want fans to know that the league is being intentional and proactive in educating its players, coaches, and staff on LGBT diversity and inclusion,” explained Jillian Svensson, Vice President of Development & Operations for You Can Play.

Dates and times for You Can Play Nights will be announced as the season approaches.

For more information about You Can Play, visit their website at youcanplayproject.org.

Boston Pride Names Coaching Staff Boston Pride General Manager Hayley Moore announced that Bobby Jay, Lauren McAuliffe, and Dave Jensen will return as Head Coach, Assistant Coach, and Associate Coach and Todd Lampert will join the Pride as Goaltending Coach.

“It’s an honor to be asked to join the Boston Pride staff this season,” said Lampert. “I love coaching goaltenders, it’s what I enjoy the most about hockey.

There’s world-class talent on this team and I’m excited to be on board.”

Lampert currently serves as the Goaltending Coach for the Northeastern University women’s hockey program. He has previously coached at Danvers High School and Curry College.

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SEASON SCHEDULE

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he second season of the NWHL begins on October 7th, 2016 with Opening Weekend in Buffalo, NY. Regular season play will pause for all All-Star Weekend, which will be held on February 11-12th, 2017. The regular season concludes on April 16th, 2017, prior to the second annual Isobel Cup Playoffs.

The dates, times, and locations for all 2016-17 season games can be found on nwhl.zone.

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Around the NWHL...

...Watch for new jerseys as the players take the ice. The NWHL has retired all four team’s Inaugural Season sweaters and had fans vote on several new designs.

I

t’s an anniversary year of sorts for Richie Hebner. Fifty years ago this past summer Hebner was chosen in the first round, 15th player taken overall, by the Pittsburgh Pirates as part of that year’s Major League Baseball Draft.

While history shows us that Hebner went on to play nearly by Randy Schultz two decades Randy@nyhockeyonline.com of pro baseball, including 18 seasons in the Major Leagues, the decision he had to make five decades ago wasn’t as easy as one would think. You see, while most people associate Hebner with baseball, those that knew him growing up in the Norwood, MA area knew that he was as equally great in hockey.

“At the time I know there were some very disappointed people who thought I should play pro hockey,” recalled Hebner, who played in the Major Leagues for the Pirates, Detroit Tigers, New York Mets, Chicago Cubs and Philadelphia Phillies. “They knew me as a hockey player.

“The Boston Bruins were interested in me and people thought I would sign with them and have a career in pro hockey.”

Just how good was Hebner? Some New England hockey experts have ranked him as the second best player ever to come out of the Boston area.

The only player ahead of him was Robbie Ftorek. But Hebner was ranked ahead of players like Rod Langway, Bob Carpenter, Tom Barrasso, Tony Amonte and, yes, Jeremy Roenick.

Hebner began skating on a pond behind his boyhood home. When he was about seven Heb-

Hebner On Hockey

19 ner began playing organized hockey and baseball.

“In the winter time it was skating and skating with hockey and in the summer it was all baseball,” remembered Hebner, now a hitting coach with the AAA Buffalo Bisons of the International League and a minor league affiliate of the Toronto Blue Jays. “I played high school hockey.

“We would draw between a thousand and two-thousand people to a game. At a baseball game we might only draw a handful of people.

“So people knew me as a hockey player. And,

you looked at it, Hebner signed with the Pirates and never looked back. And with the Pirates he helped win a World Series championship in 1971 and has a World Series ring to show for it.

Any regrets?

“Not really, although I did look back those first couple of years I was in pro baseball and wondered what would have happened if I had signed with the Bruins,” remarked the former left winger.

And the former third baseman had a right to wonder. The Bruins, who had been the doormats of the National Hockey League from the late 1950s through the mid-1960s were beginning to turn the corner.

Players like Phil Esposito, Wayne Cashman, Johnny Bucyk and Gerry Cheevers were helping to turn the Bruins fortunes around. Of course it didn’t hurt that Boston signed a youngster by the name of Bobby Orr either.

“Winning the Cup in 1970 and again in 1972 was great,” said Hebner. “It made me wonder what it might have been like to win a Stanley Cup. “But then I take a look at my World Series ring and know that I made the right decision for myhonestly, I tell people that I think I was a better self.”

Although he grew up in a hockey-crazed area hockey player than I was a baseball player.”

Was there any hesitation about signing a con- in Massachusetts, Hebner knows that hockey is very strong in New York State, especially in the tract with the Pirates?

“No, not really,” responded Hebner, now in Buffalo area where he has spent the past three his 50th year of Professional Baseball as a player baseball seasons coaching with the Bisons. and a coach. “Milt Schmidt (the Bruins GM at the “The people here love their hockey,” concludtime and a Hall of Fame player with the team as ed the 68 year-old Hebner. “I see it with the Sawell) talked to me and and told me to go ahead bres and their youth hockey programs.

“I’m still a Bruins fan and follow the game and sign with the Pirates.

“He told me that if I didn’t like baseball after very closely. Hockey will always be in my blood.” a couple of years I could some back and sign with NY HOCKEY the Bruins.”

Fortunately or unfortunately, depending on how

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E-Magazine

Rochester Arena Gets Major Renovation!

By Randy Schultz Randy@nyhockeyonline.com

I

t has been almost a year since I had been inside Bill Gray’s Regional Iceplex. But as soon as I entered the building I quickly realized what a difference a year makes.

Bill Gray’s Regional Iceplex is a 170,000 square foot, multi-sport facility located on the campus of Monroe Community College. It is home to four NHL-sized ice rinks, a Bill Gray’s Restaurant and Tap Room, Abbott’s Frozen Custard, Coffee Etc. gourmet coffee shop, Locker Room Sports retail hockey store, Invitational Tournaments, Parisi Sports Performance Training Center, NewEdge Hockey Training Company, and Travel Team USA. It is also the training facility for the Rochester Americans AHL team and home to Nazareth Ice Hockey, Rochester Youth Hockey, Rochester Rebels Junior Hockey, Rochester Red Wings Youth Hockey, Selects Academy at Bishop Ke-

arney, Spencerport High School Hockey, ROC City Roller Derby, Rochester Ice Cats Hockey, and numerous other organizations.

NY Hockey OnLine had been at Bill Gray’s over three years ago when it was announced that a new ownership group was coming in to take over. And as the old saying goes, “Rome wasn’t built in a day,” it certainly applied to this situation.

One of the first things that caught my eye were the number of ads that lined the tops of the walls throughout the building. New businesses were now occupying building space that weren’t there a year or two years ago.

But as I would find out there was more to this building than what I viewed walking through the front doors. Thanks to the efforts of Brendon Bleier, Customer Service Director for Bill Gray’s Iceplex, NY Hockey OnLine got an inside look at what makes up this Rochester-based Ice Skating facility.

The first items that Ble-

21

ier pointed out were the TV monitors hanging from the center section of the upper level entrance.

“We can watch any game being played on any of the four rinks,” said Bleier. “But people not in attendance at the game can watch it on their computers at home because all the games are being streamed live online.

“Coaches also love it because it’s game recordings. Adult leagues use it as well.”

Bleier was quick to point out that many of the basics we were viewing throughout the Iceplex came from one person.

“A lot of what you see in this building is the brainchild of our general manager, Chris Woodworth,” remarked Bleier. “He’s a consumer marketing major.

“He studied what customers wanted. For those of us who work here we have one bottom line and that is ‘enhancement to the customer experience.’

“For instance, we’re a major

the community. And it’s not only because of the advertising signs that are there but by the businesses that occupy the building.

“We want to be a community center and not just an ice rink,” said Bleier. “For instance, we tournament destination. We’re the only four pad arena in the area. Over the span of a year, 52 weekends per year, we have 35 events scheduled.

“And you have to figure that there are anywhere between 35 and 60 teams per tourney.”

According to a recent economic impact study completed

by Camoin Associates, the facility generates over 86,000 out of town visitors, staying in over 35,000 hotel rooms that creates nearly $20 million direct out of town spending to the Rochester area each year.

One of the other things you notice when walking around is that there seems to be a very strong relationship between the Iceplex and

not only host hockey tournaments here but we also host over 160 birthday parties per year here as well.

“We also host a number of non-ice events per year as well, both inside and outside. There is something going on in this facility all the time.”

One rink even has table and chairs located on one side so that families can eat, celebrate and skate without leaving the rink.

As you walk through the lower level

of the facility you discover all of the locker room areas that are occupied by the Rochester Americans, Rochester Youth Hockey, Nazareth College and the Rochester Rebels Junior Hockey Team. Plus, there are other training facilities as well as rooms where teams can dress.

A great deal of thought has gone into the remaking of the Bill Gray’s Iceplex. The more remarkable thing is that it is not finished yet.

“We are in constant contact with the community,” concluded Bleier. “The community is now discovering what we are now all about.

“And we believe that once the community finds out about us, the word will

spread. We want to be a part of the community.

“And we want the community to be a part of us. We would like this to be THE place for people to come to for community events.”

IN THE NA3HL THE NA3HL

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he North American 3 Hockey League (NA3HL) has announced the release of the 2016-17 regular-season schedule. The NA3HL is entering its seventh season and serves as one of the top training grounds in the country by providing the best coaching, exposure and developmental vehicles available for student-athletes in its classification. Through the NAHL’s vast resources for development and exposure, the creation of the NA3HL provides another worthy path for players to grow, on and off the ice, while being showcased in front of the entire junior, college and professional scouting community.

The player advancement of NA3HL players last season to the NAHL and other junior leagues again set a new standard for player movement. In addition to the 40+ players who advanced to play in the NAHL throughout the season, 32 NA3HL players were either tendered or drafted by NAHL teams during the 2015-16 season. Over 150 NA3HL players made college commitments during the 2015-16 season, with more than 100 of those being NCAA commitments.

“The NA3HL set new records for player advancement and scouting attendance at events last season and our priority is to build on that momentum. With 48 teams in the League, our exceptional events will continue to showcase players and attract college scouts from across the country,” said NA3HL Commissioner Denny Scanlon.

The 2016-17 season is an exciting time for the NA3HL, as the league will be at an all-time high of 48 teams. In addition to its regular-season schedule and playoffs, the NA3HL, which boasts a geographical footprint with 48 teams in 21 states (Alabama, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Louisiana, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, Wisconsin and Wyoming) allowing players to compete and excel academically at home, will participate in the NAHL’s high-exposure events, which attract hundreds of college, junior and professional

coaches and scouts.

T h e N A 3 H L will have three events during the 2016-17 season. All 48 teams will compete in a league-wide

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Showcase held from December 16-18, 2016 at the Schwan Super Rink in Blaine, Minnesota.

The second event of the season will be the NA3HL Top Prospects Tournament, which will take place alongside the NAHL Top Prospects Tournament at the USA Hockey Arena in Plymouth, Michigan from February 26-28, 2017.

The NA3HL will then finish their season with the Silver Cup Championship Tournament, which crowns the NA3HL’s playoff champion. The event will be held from March 29-April 2, 2017 in Chicago, Illinois.

2016-17 NA3HL Divisional breakdown: Central Division (5 teams): Chicago Bulldogs, La Crosse Freeze, North Iowa Bulls, Rochester Ice Hawks, Wisconsin Whalers.

Coastal Division (7 teams): Cape Cod Islanders, East Coast Minutemen, L/A Fighting Spirit, Long Beach Sharks,

Maine Wild, New England Stars, Northeast Generals.

East Division (6 teams): Metro Jets, Pittsburgh Vengeance, Southern Tier Xpress, Toledo Cherokee, West Michigan Wolves, Wooster Oilers.

Frontier Division (8 teams): Billings Bulls, Bozeman Icedogs, Gillette Wild, Glacier Nationals, Great Falls Americans, Helena Bighorns, Missoula Junior Bruins, Yellowstone Quake.

Midwest Division: (5 teams): Cincinnati Thunder, Evansville Jr. Thunderbolts, Nashville Jr. Predators, Peoria Mustangs, St. Louis Jr. Blues.

Northeast Division (6 teams): Binghamton Jr. Senators, Jersey Shore Wildcats, Lockport Express, Roc City Royals, Skylands Kings, Syracuse Stampede.

South Division (6 teams): Atlanta Capitals, College Station Spirit, Euless Jr. Stars, Louisiana Drillers, Point Mallard Ducks, Texas Jr. Brahmas.

West Division (5 teams): Alexandria Blizzard, Breezy Point North Stars, Granite City Lumberjacks, New Ulm Steel, Willmar WarHawks.

BINGHAMTON JR. SENATORS

SYRACUSE STAMPEDE

The Stampede are excited to have Ethan Mapes join the team for the 2016-2017 season. Mapes, the 19 year old forward from Dansville, NY. Will add to the Stampede offense this season as he was the leading goal scorer for the Geneseo / Livonia High School program in 2014-2015. Mapes who took last season off to start college at Morrisville is also a member of the Morrisville State College football program and is entering his second year at the school majoring in Renewable energy technology. Mapes the 5’10” 185lb forward will be a big addition to this seasons team and could be just what the Stamp needs to jump on the loose pucks and finish the play.

“Ethan was going to join us last season but things just didn’t go as planned so he consentrated more on school and football. This season I received a call from a good friend that put me in contact with Ethan and the rest is history.” states coach Beavis. “Ethan was a very good player at the high school level and we really wanted him last season. He is now a bit older and stronger and has kept at it on the ice over the past year as well. It should be an easy transition back to the game for him as he is just one of those guy’s that’s just an athlete.” added Beavis.

The Stampede have also added Mike Eastman the 2000 birth-year goaltender from Verona, NY. He will spend time with the Stampede this season as well as backstop for the Mohawk Valley High School program. Eastman who showed well for himself and earned a tender from the

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The Binghamton Junior Senators of the NA3HL are excited to announce the addition of Nick Perri to their coaching staff.

Perri most recently served as an assistant coach, video coach and scout in the North American Hockey League (NAHL) for the New Jersey Titans (2015-16) and Coulee Region Chill (201315).

Nick has also served as the video coach for Suffern High School’s Varsity Ice Hockey team where he was part of a Section 1 Championship team in 2013 and also scouted for International Scouting Services, covering the US and creating scouting reports on NHL draft and NCAA prospects.

GM Ray Welsh added, “Nick comes highly recommended, I believe he will be a great asset to our program alongside Head Coach Chris Laganiere and Assistant Coach Pierre Laganiere. I’m looking forward to the opportunities his addition will allot our players.”

on Friday September 23rd VS The Roc City Royals at 7PM and then host the North East Generals both Saturday the 24th and Sunday the 25th at the IcePlex. For more information on the Stampede and the NA3HL schedule please visit the Syracuse Stampede web-site at: www.syracusestampede.com

ROC CITY ROYALS

The Roc City Royals open against the Lockport Express on September 18.

LOCKPORT EXPRESS Stampede back in April will be a great young addition to the Stampede for the future. “Mike worked very hard in our tryouts and we were impressed enough to give him an offer to join the program.” states coach Mike Beavis.

Eastman, the 5’ 9” 140 lb netminder is a very yound and upcoming goalie and should benefit from the work he will get with the Stampede before he begins to skate with his High School program later this fall. Eastman is not the first player to come to the Stampede from area High School programs and do the split season schedule as several other players from central NY over the past few years got their start with the Stampede while playing high school as well. “We like to have one or two young guys break in with us each season and adjust to the level of the game while playing high school as well. It’s a win win for everyone and we build a player for the future.

It’s all about development and the natural progression of players with us.” added Beavis

Eastman is not a big goaltender by any means but is very competitive goalie that challenges shooters constantly.

Players from the Stampede camp put it as he plays much larger than he actually is.

The Stampede will kick off the seasons training camp on August 29th at the Ice-Plex on the campus of Morrisville State College. The team will open the 2016-2017 season on the road in Biddeford Maine VS the Main Wild on Saturday September 17th at 7PM and Sunday September 18th at 11 AM. The Stampede will kick off their home schedule

The Lockport Express will open September 17 at

home against the Roc City Royals and then travel to Rochester for a second game the following day.

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Long Beach Sharks

The Long Beach Sharks are the former NY Aviators. They open play at home against the East Coast Minutemen on September 9 and 10.

CENTRAL NEW YORK

Central Men’s College Ice Hockey Report

by Warren Kozireski Wkozires@brockport.edu

COLGATE PREVIEW

The Raiders had a disappointing 2015-16 campaign that ended in a double-overtime loss to Dartmouth in the first round of the ECAC playoffs and said goodbye to its top four scorers and a key defenseman, but there is still optimism heading into this season.

Much is due to the long-awaited opening of their spanking new Class of ’65 Arena, which the men christen on October 1st against Army.

“Obviously there is a lot of excitement around the start of this season and the opening of the new Class of ‘65 Arena,” head coach Don Vaughan said. “It is a very exciting time for our student-athletes, coaches, alumni and fans.”

“As a team, with the loss of a very talented senior class and the addition of nine new players, we are clearly going to need those first year guys to step in and contribute right away. There is going to be a steep learning curve and our coaches and returning players will need to work hard to get everyone up to speed quickly.

“We lost a lot of offense to graduation and I see us as a team that will need to be stingy defensively and distribute our scoring among a larger group of guys. More scoring by committee rather than relying on two or three players.

With that comes opportunity and with a bigger roster this year competition for key roles should be fierce.”

Tim Harrison, Evan Peterson, Mike Panowyk

and Hunter Racine are among those expected to take on added responsibility while Andrew Black (Buffalo), Derek Freeman and Adam Dauda could be big factors in specialty roles.

Seniors Jake Kulevich and Brett Corley anchor the blueline along with a trio of sophomores in Willie Brooks, Ken Citron and Rory McGuire, who were quickly initiated into ECAC hockey last season.

Freshman goaltender Colton Point, who was ranked fourth in North American goaltenders by NHL Central Scouting (final rankings) after his tremendous championship Jr. A season with the Carleton Place Canadians and was selected 128th overall in the fifth round by the Dallas Stars, will push returning senior and starter Charlie Finn.

Other non-conference visitors to the new arena include Boston University (10/8), UConn (10/14) and Maine (10-28-29). Rival Cornell makes their first visit Nov. 29.

CORNELL SEASON PREVIEW

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The Big Red as usual will rely on goaltending and defense with senior Mitch Gillam winning all 16 games last season and five of six to defensemen all back.

Add in the top line of Jeff Kubiak centering Anthony Angello (Manlius) and Mitch Vanderlaan also returns intact meaning less pressure on the rest of the veterans and newcomers.

“With only four graduating seniors we are obviously excited to build on last year,” head coach Mike Schafer said. “We started strong but a mid-year lapse hurt our opportunity for a great year.

“We look for members in all our classes to step forward and have better or career years this year. Jeff Kubiak is a great example of someone who made a drastic improvement last year and we look forward to seeing how many guys can follow his lead this year.”

“Gone are the days where you can physically punish teams, so now you have to intimidate with speed. With this incoming class, they’re all tremendous skaters and have great skills and offensive instincts. They’re going to increase our team’s speed and skill level and improve our ability to play at a faster pace.”

Some of that speed is expected to come via the new recruits including four forwards and one defenseman:

Noah Bauld racked up 40 points over 46 games on 17 goals and 23 assists with the Lloydminster Bobcats (AJHL) during the 2015-16 season. He also spent a season with Northwood School in Lake Placid, N.Y.

Corey Hoffman (Plainview) scored 12 goals and added 27 assists for 39 points in 56 regular-season games between the Prince George Spruce Kings and Cowichan

Valley Capitals in the British Columbia Hockey League.

Defenseman Yanni Kaldis was a British Columbia Hockey League First-Team All-Star for the 2015-16 season when he averaged better than a point per game from the blue line for the Nanaimo Clippers.

Jeff Malott posted 60 points in 46 games on 25 goals and 35 assists and helped lead the Brooks Bandits in 2015-16 to the Gas Drive Cup, which is the Alberta Junior Hockey League’s championships.

Connor Murphy posted 23 points on 11 goals and 12 assists and a plus15 rating in 53 games with the Green Bay Gamblers of the United States Hockey League.

The Big Red will be tested on the road in the first half and potentially reap the benefits in the second half with nine of the final 13 regular season games at Lynah Rink. Among the non-conference opponents are Merrimack, New Hampshire (at Madison Square Garden Thanksgiving weekend), Miami and the Estero Classic in Florida with Colorado College and Northern Michigan.

FULTON YOUTH HOCKEY

AROUND CENTRAL NEW YORK...

...FULTON: Thanks for the link to NYHOL. MIDSTATE: MYHA is forming a Girls 12U team for this season.

MOHAWK VALLEY: MVYHA is partnering with the Utica Comets of the American Hockey League.

ONONDAGA: New website at onondagathunder.com SKANEATELES: Registration now being taken for the Dynamic Edges program being held September 12-14.

SYRACUSE BLAZERS: Thanks for the link to NYHOL.

Fulton Youth Hockey will be offering “Skate and Shoots” run by the Fulton High School coaches starting early October and running until High School tryouts. These session will tentatively be 2 or 3 times per week. I am still working on the time but it looks like there will be one session at 3:30 once or twice per week and one session at 8pm once per week.

You do not have to be a part of Fulton Youth Hockey to sign up for the skate and shoots. However you do have to live in the Fulton City School district or a district that allows your child to play High school hockey in Fulton.

You must be registered with USA Hockey and pay $100 non refundable fee to Fulton Youth Hockey before stepping on the ice period! There is no payment plans for this and there are no exceptions. You will be able to register and pay at www. fultonyouthhockey.com very soon.

Fulton Youth Hockey will have 1 Midget Snowbelt team starting as soon as high school tryouts are over. The team will be coached by Jeff Hyde.

The cost to play on the Midget team is $400.

If you sign up for the skate and shoots, then you will owe an additional $300 to play on Midget team.

The midget practices are tentatively scheduled at 5:15 pm on Tuesday’s and Thursday’s. We thought it may be easier for kids playing on both the high school team and the midget team to have back to back practices instead of waiting around until 8pm for Midget practice.

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...Auburn: Charity Tap Night, October 6, 5 to Close at Tinkers Guild. ...BINGHAMTON BLIZZARD: First, Thank you for the link and post of the magazine. Second BB is a girl’s ice hockey program in south central New York that provides competitive and development hockey for girls. For information email BBGHAWebmaster@gmail.com ...CAMILLIUS: September 24 is their fundraiser. Go to website for details. ...CENTER STATE: Thanks for the link to NYHOL and watch for their new jerseys. ...CENTRAL OUTLAWS/FINGERLAKES: 2016 October Outlaw Border Classic Tournament, Squirt and PeeWee October 14-16 and Bantam November 4-6. Go to fingerlakeshockey.com for details/registration.

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Central New York Women’s College Hockey Report

By Janet Schultz Janet@nyhockeyonline.com

Cortland

Cortland is still in the search for a women’s head coach for the upcoming season.

The Red Raiders open against Potsdam in Potsdam on November 4 and then return home the following day for their home opener against the Bears. Puck drops at 2 p.m.

Elmira Preview

ing to the final USCHO Coaches Poll. Of those three teams, two qualified for the NCAA Division III Women’s Ice Hockey Championships in Amherst and Middlebury. EC clashes with Middlebury in a rematch of last year’s NCAA Third-Place game on Monday, January 2nd in Middlebury, Vermont, before taking on Amherst in an away contest on Tuesday, January 24th at 7:00 p.m.

As it is every year, Elmira will look to write a new chapter in its storied rivalry with conference foe, and three-time defending national champion, Plattsburgh State. The Soaring Eagles battle the Cardinals at the Ronald B. Stafford Ice Arena in Plattsburgh, New York, on Saturday and Sunday, February 11th and 12th. The outcome of this weekend tilt will surely play a large role in determining the landscape of the ECAC West Tournament, as well as hosting rights for the championship.

Schedule Highlights • Elmira’s regular-season schedule features 25 contests (14 away; 11 home).

• EC’s home opener is set for Friday, November 11th against Chatham University at 7:00 p.m.

• The first six contests of the year are ECAC West games.

• Three of the nine conference series are home-andhome events (Cortland, William Smith, Utica).

• Five of the final seven regular season games will take place at the Murray Athletic Center.

• EC competes in the East-West Hockey Classic, hosted by Norwich, on January 7th and 8th.

• Elmira’s scheduled non-conference opponents combined for a 91-37-9 record (.697).

• Non-conference opponent breakdown: NESCAC (4), NCHA (1), NEHC (1).

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Fresh off the heels of a 23-win season that culminated in a third-place finish at the 2016 NCAA Division III Women’s Ice Hockey Championships, the Elmira College women’s ice hockey team is only a few months away from embarking on what hopefully is another deep run in the postseason. However, before thoughts of a tournament appearance, EC will have to navigate its way through a rigorous regular-season schedule, which has been announced today by Head Coach Dean Jackson ‘03.

The 2016-17 slate has a familiar feel to Elmira’s schedule a season ago, as 18 of the 25 regular season games will be played within the ECAC West Conference. Elmira opens the season with a pair of conference games on the road against Neumann University, beginning with the season opener on Friday, November 4th at 7:00 p.m.

Elmira’s seven non-conference contests will be against some stiff competition, as three of the teams (Amherst, Middlebury, and Norwich) ended the 201516 campaign with a top-10 national ranking, accord-

Syracuse University Syracuse women’s ice hockey head coach Paul Flanagan announced the 2016-17 schedule which includes games against four 2016 NCAA Tournament teams, including the tournament’s runner-up Boston College.

Fans will have several opportunities to catch the Orange in action throughout the season with 17 home games, including two exhibition games against the Minnesota Whitecaps in November.

Syracuse will square off with four in-state teams with games against Colgate, Clarkson, Cornell and RIT. The Orange will play each team in the CHA four times, twice at home and twice on the road.

The Orange start the season with a home exhibition game against University of Montreal on Saturday, Sept. 24, before opening the regular season with a pair of games against Bemidji State on Sept. 30 and Oct. 1.

‘Cuse hits the road for games against Northeastern (Oct. 14 and 15) before a home-and-away with Colgate on Oct. 21 and 22. The Orange will open CHA play with home games against Lindenwood (Oct. 28 and 29) and road games against Robert Morris (Nov. 4 and 5) and Mercyhurst (Nov. 11 and 12).

After exhibition games against the Whitecaps on Nov. 19 and 20, Syracuse will face off with North Dakota on the road on Nov. 25 and 26. Next is a pair of home-and-away series with in-state rivals RIT (Dec. 2 and 3) and Clarkson (Dec. 9 and 10).

After the winter break, the Orange will pick back up on the road against the 2016 national runner-up Boston College on Jan. 4. Syracuse will play its last non-conference game at Cornell on Jan. 10.

The season concludes with the Orange playing 12-straight CHA games. Syracuse will host Penn State

on Jan. 13 and 14, before going on the road against Lindenwood on Jan. 20 and 21. Next, ‘Cuse will have four-straight home games against Robert Morris (Jan. 27 and 28) and Mercyhurst (Feb. 10 and 11).

Syracuse will play three of the last four regular season games on the road, with a home-and-away with RIT (Feb. 17 and 18) and at Penn State (Feb. 24 and 25).

The Orange return 17 letterwinners from last season’s team that won a program record 14 conference games and advanced to the CHA title game against Mercyhurst as the No. 2 seed. Among the returners are All-CHA selections and scoring trophy winnersJessica Sibley and Stephanie Grossi.

For complete coverage of Syracuse and Syracuse women’s ice hockey, follow us on Facebook (Syracuse Orange), Twitter (@Cuse & @ CuseIce), Instagram (@CusePics &@CuseIce) and watch exclusive video content on Cuse TV.

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Utica College

Utica opens with an exhibition game against the Toronto Midget Aeros on Sunday, October 23 in the Utica Memorial Auditorium at 2 p.m. Their season opener is against their ECAC rival Lebanon Valley College on Noember 1 at 7 p.m. in Pennsylvania. They don’t hold their first home stance until William Smith College comes to town on November 13 at 11 a.m.

Utica’s first seven against are against ECAC rivals.

Colgate University Colgate fans can enjoy a 60-game home streaming schedule covering eight Raider sports this fall via the Patriot League Network on Campus Insiders.

The livestreaming site is free and offers HD picture and in-depth commentary as Colgate takes on the best of the Patriot League and ECAC Hockey. Additional Patriot League road games and all conference playoff games also can be watched free of charge via the PLN. Home football games against Holy Cross (Oct. 29) and Georgetown (Nov. 19) include an enhanced Campus Insiders broadcast, and the Oct. 1 Homecoming contest against Cornell is being produced by Time Warner Cable Sports.

Later that evening, TWCS also is televising the first Colgate men’s hockey game in Class of 1965 Arena. That contest also can be seen over the Patriot League Network.

Check out the complete Colgate PLN schedule HERE.

Oswego

5. The Lakers will remain home the following weekend, as conference foe Cortland visits on Saturday, Nov. 12 and Sunday, Nov. 13.

A two-weekend road trip appears next on the Laker schedule, beginning with defending nationalchampion Plattsburgh at 3 p.m. on both Nov. 19 and 20. Oswego will then head to Williams College on Nov. 26-27 for a reprieve from the ECAC West campaign, battling the nonconference Ephs in Williamstown, Mass.

The Lakers will continue the break from conference play when they return home to host SUNY Canton on Friday, Dec. 2 and Saturday, Dec. 3. Oswego stays at home for yet another nonconference tilt, bringing Hamilton College to campus for a single contest at 7 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 9 to close out 2016.

In the New Year, Oswego will only compete against conference opponents, starting with Utica College on Friday, Jan. 13 and Saturday, Jan. 14. Friday’s game will be played 7 p.m. at home while Saturday’s game will be in Utica, with a time still to be determined. The following weekend will be spent in Aston, Pa. as the Lakers play Neumann University at 7 p.m. on Friday and 2 p.m. on Saturday.

On Jan. 27-28, Oswego will face-off with Potsdam in a home-and-home weekend, hosting the Bears at 3 p.m. on Friday before taking a trip to the north country for a 3 p.m. puck drop on Saturday.

February will have three regular season weekend, starting on the road at Elmira College on Feb. 2-3. Buffalo State will travel to the port city to face the Lakers the following weekend, with both games on Feb. 11-12 starting at 3 p.m. The last regular season weekend will be

31

The Oswego State women’s ice hockey team has unveiled its 2016-17 slate. Oswego will host 12 contest in the friendly confines of the Marano Campus Center Arena, plus an additional exhibition game to start the year at home.

That exhibition game will again bring the Toronto Midget Aeros to Oswego, this year at 3 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 22. The regular season will commence on the road, facing New England College at 7 p.m. the following Friday and Castleton University at 3 p.m. the next day.

Oswego’s regular season home-opener will also begin conference play, as ECAC Women’s West member Chatham comes to campus for a pair of games on Friday, Nov. 4 and Saturday, Nov.

against William Smith College in a home-and-home series. Oswego will travel to Geneva, N.Y. to face the Herons at 7 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 17 before returning home for a 2 p.m. regular-season finale on Saturday.

Postseason action will start with the ECAC Women’s West Championship. A new wrinkle in 2016-17 will be first round action on Thursday (Feb. 23) with the semifinal round taking place on Sunday (Feb. 26).

The conference champion will then be crowned the following Saturday (March 4).

Two-game sets with the same opponent without times listed above indicates a first game start time of 7 p.m. and the second game with a 3 p.m. faceoff. All times are available on the team’s schedule.

Cornell The women’s hockey team will welcome seven newcomers to the program for the 2016-17 season, head coach Doug Derraugh announced recently.

Jaime Bourbonnais Defenseman — Mississauga, Ontario — Oakville Hornets (PWHL) Bourbonnais comes to the Big Red after earning a silver medal with the Oakville Hornets at the 201516 Ontario Women’s Hockey Association Provincial Championships. For Team Canada, she was a part of the silver medal team at the 2016 IIHF U-18 World Championships and was invited to the 2016 U-22 National Development Camp. She was also a member of Team Ontario at the U-18 Women’s National Championships and at the 2015 Canada Winter Games, where she was named the top defenseman. She also played field hockey and soccer in high school.

Amy Curlew Forward ­— Goose Bay, Newfoundland and Labrador — Oakville Hornets (PWHL) Curlew played her club hockey for the Oakville Hornets of the Provincial Women’s Hockey League, earning a silver medal at the 2015-16 OWHA Provincial Championships and winning the 2014-15 tournament. She has skated for Team Newfoundland and Labrador since 2010, and was an assistant captain for the 2015 Canada Winter Games. The forward skated four years for Appleby College in Oakville, Ontario, where she also played soccer.

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Six forwards and one defenseman make up the Class of 2020 that will look to win the program’s fifth ECAC Hockey Championship and carry the Big Red to its sixth NCAA Tournament appearance. The seven-member group hails from two states (Connecticut and South Dakota) and four Canadian provinces (Newfoundland and Labrador, New Brunswick, Ontario and Quebec).

Class of 2020 Valerie Audet Forward — ­ Saint Bruno, Quebec — Dawson College In 2014, Audet played for Canada’s U-18 squad that competed in a three-game series against the U.S. U-18 team. She was invited to the 2016 U-22 National Development Camp. The forward competed for Team Quebec during the 2015 Canada Games, contributing nine points on four goals and five assists on the way to a gold medal. She also helped Team North Quebec win the 2013 Esso Cup title and led the tournament in scoring.

Grace Graham Forward — Island View, New Brunswick — Fredericton High School Graham played for Canada’s U-18 team in a threegame series against the U.S. U-18 squad in the summer of 2015. Prior to that tournament, she participated in Canada’s U-18 strength and conditioning camp and summer camp. The forward spent the 2015-16 season playing for the Fredericton HS varsity boys’ hockey team, and she also was a member of the volleyball, soccer, rowing and track and field teams throughout high school.

Paige Lewis Forward — New Canaan, Conn. — Mid-Fairfield

Stars Lewis spent the past three seasons playing for the North American Hockey Academy in Stowe, Vt., where she was a two-time Junior Women’s Hockey league All-Star. On the national stage, she has participated in USA Hockey’s National Camp in 2012, 2013 and 2014 and was invited to the U-18 Selection Camp in 2015. Lewis also skated for the Mid-Fairfield Stars from 2011-16 and was a USA National Championship runner-up in 2014.

Hanna Mutschelknaus Forward — Brandon, S.D. — St. Louis AAA Blues Mutschelknaus was the captain of the St. Louis U-19 Lady Blues during the 2015-16 season, scoring 17 goals and 21 assists for 38 points in 42 games. She also participated in USA Hockey’s 2015 U-18 Player Development Camp. Prior to joining the Lady Blues, Mutschelknaus was named to the South Dakota All-State Hockey team for the 2014-15 season. She was also a member of the National Honor Society.

long-time rival Mercyhurst University. The two teams split their two games last season in Erie, Pa., as Cornell lost 5-1 and then recovered for a 6-1 victory. The Lakers made an NCAA tournament appearance last season.

Other Cornell News...

...Cornellians Hanna Bunton, Micah Hart and incoming Freshman Kristin O’Neill were invited to the Canadian National Development Camp. ...Cassandre Poudreir and Tahlor Woods were drafted by the CWHL with Poudreir going to Montreal and Woods to Brampton.

Hamilton

Hamilton opens against William Smith on Novemer 19 and 20 at 3 p.m. and then faces Morrisville State on November 22 at 1 p.m.

33

Kristin O’Neill Forward — Oakville, Ontario — Stoney Creek Sabres O’Neill captained the Stoney Creek Sabres of the PWHL during the 2015-16 season, and she was an assistant captain during the team’s 2014-15 run to the PWHL Championship. On the national stage, she spent two years on Canada’s U-18 team, earning silver medals at the 2015 and 2016 IIHF U-18 Women’s World Hockey Championship and was invited to the 2016 U-22 National Development Camp. O’Neill also skated for Team Ontario during its silver medal run at the 2015 Canada Winter Games. She also participated in cross country and track and field in high school.

Cornell’s first-ever matchup with Wisconsin and games against five NCAA tournament qualifiers from a year ago highlight this year’s women’s hockey schedule, which was released Tuesday. The 2016-17 season will be head coach Doug Derraugh’s 12th season behind the Big Red bench.

Cornell opens the season at Lynah Rink on Friday Oct. 21 and Saturday, Oct. 22 with two games against

William Smith

The Herons head for Rhode Island to take on Salve Regina on October 28 and 29.

They return home against Plattsburgh on November 5 and 6 with the puck dropping at 4 p.m. both days.

Morrisville State

Morrisville, in its second season, opens with an exhibition game against the Hamilton Hawks and then head to Buffalo State for a weekend Tournament on October 29 and 30.

Their home opener will see Salen State visiting Morrisville on November 4 and 5 with a 4 p.m. and 2 p.m. puck drop, respectively.

East Hockey

SUFFOLK COUNTY AROUND EASTERN HSHL SCHOLARSHIPS NEW YORK ...NORTH ROCKLAND YOUTH HOCKEY AWARDED Congratulations to the Bantams on winning the NY Rang-

C

ongratulations to the Suffolk County High School Hockey League’s 2015-2016 Scholarship Winners!

These scholarships are awarded based on Academic status, Participation in the SCHSHL, Scholastic Honors/ Awards, Curricular and extracurricular activities, Positions of leadership held, Community related activities, Letters of Recommendation and an Applicant’s essay.

Fran Riggio Memorial Scholarship Ryan Smith – East Islip Kevin Moore – Ward Melville Richie Lowis Memorial Scholarship William Sergio – Sachem Mary Venticinque Memorial Scholarship Christopher Ponticello – Ward Melville

T

...The LONG ISLAND Rebels Midget 18 team is starting the season helping others by working at Habitat for the Humanity. The Rebels crew assisted in building a new home for a family from Long Island. In addition to the work they did the team raised $1200 for Habitat that will help pay for materials needed to complete the home.

35

WSF NEW YORK SLED RANGERS

ers Assist Equipment Drive contest. The team traveled to Sweden courtesy of the NY Rangers and Chase. The team played some hockey, assisted kids from Henrik Lundqvist’s hometown and also got to meet and spend some time with the Rangers goalie. A great time was had by all.

he Wheelchair Sports Federation New York Sled Rangers, is a sled hockey program for physically disabled youth ages 5 through 21. They are one of the very few outlets for physically disabled kids to play competitive sports in New York City.

When these disabled athletes walk or wheel into their classrooms, and they say they are hockey players, it makes their able-bodied friends look at them differently, it makes their parents look at them differently, and it makes them think about themselves differently. They are increasing independence, developing self-esteem, and growing selfconfidence through something as simple as playing sports.

Contact us at info@wsfsledrangers.org

...LONG ISLAND ROYALS: The Long Island Royals had another 1st round draft pick in the 2016 NHL draft this season. Former 16U player, Tage Thompson ’97 from Oyster Bay was selected 26th overall by the St. Louis Blues.

Tage spent the 2013 Hockey season with Coach Bobby Barbera and the Midget 16U Royals. Tage is currently a freshmen at Hockey East Member UCONN. Thompson, who is the son of former Peoria Rivermen assistant coach Brent Thompson, said he met with the Blues several times prior to tonight’s draft.”I got a good vibe from them,” Thompson said. “I got along with their staff, felt very comfortable and was very happy to hear my name called by them.” Thompson, 18, dressed in 36 games during his freshman season at the University of Connecticut in 2015-16, recording 32 points (14 goals and 18 assists).In 2014-15, the 6-foot-5, 194-pound forward appeared in 64 games with the United States National U-18 Team, posting 26 points (12 goals, 14 assists) and 32 penalty minutes.

(Continued on Page 40)

East Women’s College Report the section final. Breck finished the season with an overall record of 21-4-0, ranking second in the state in the final Minnesota High School rankings.

Manhattanville Naidrich posted the best statistical season of her

The Valiants will open the season against career in her final season at Lawrenceville School, Castleton on November 4 at 7 p. m. at Playland finishing second on the team with 10 goals and 13 Arena. The following day they faceoff against points and earning First Team All-State honors.

She also appeared in 12 games with the New JerNorwich at 3 p.m. Both arte NEHC rivals. sey Rockets of the New England Women’s Junior Hockey League (NEWJHL), producing five goals Union and one assists for six points.

Russ was named the 2016 Cammi The Union College women’s ice hockGranato High School Player of the Year ey team has announced its incoming firstin Illinois after leading the league with 57 year class for the 2016-17 season. The Class goals and 31 assists for 88 points in just of 2020 features six forwards, two defense23 games. She also appeared in 60 games men and three goaltenders. with the Chicago Young Americans The forwards are comprised of Rachel de Pe- Hockey Organization, registering 48 goals and 33 rio (Buffalo, NY/Nichols School/Niagara Jr. Pur- assists for 81 points. ple Eagles U19), Cheyenne Harris (Minneapolis, Shugart will be another offensive weapon for MN/Breck School), Katelynn Russ (Crystal Lake, the Dutchwomen. She led the Toronto Jr. Aeros of IL /Upper Fox Valley/Chicago Young Americans the Provincial Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) U19), Jordi Naidrich (Newton, PA/Lawrenceville with 18 goals and 22 assists for 40 points, placing School/New Jersey Rockets), Haley Shugart (To- her fifth in the league in scoring. She also proronto, Ont./Toronto Jr. Aeros) and Bridgit Sulli- pelled the Aeros to a league championship, finvan (Saranac Lake, NY/Northwood School). ishing as the joint top scorer in the postseason Rachel de Perio comes to Union from Nichols with 13 points on six goals, including three gameSchool of the North American Prep Hockey Associa- winning goals, and seven assists. tion (NAPHA), where she was a key contributor to a In her senior season at Northwood School of the program that captured its fourth consecutive league North American Prep Hockey Association (NAPHA), championship in 2015. De Perio also played for the Sullivan captained Northwood White, which finished Niagara Jr. Purple Eagles U19 team. the season with an overall record of 15-9-4 and cap During her senior season at Breck School, tured the inaugural Eastern Junior Elite Prospects Harris compiled five goals and a team-best 23 as- League (EJEPL) Girls’ Championship. sists for 28 points, helping the team advance to Tessier comes to Union from the Nepean Jr.

by Janet Schultz Janet@nyhockeyonline.com

36

Wildcats of the PWHL, where she compiled a record of 11-5-4 with five shutouts. She finished second in the league with a 1.15 goals against average and a .949 save percentage and held a 2.21 goals against average in three postseason contests.

Spooner is coming off a season with the Pro Cresting Penguins of the Nova Scotia Female Midget AAA Hockey League (NSFMHL) that saw her produce a record of 13-6-4 with a 1.50 goals against average. She also notched backto-back wins in the league semifinal, recording a 0.94 goals against average and backstopping her team to the league final.

The Dutchwomen, who embark on their first season under head coach Josh Sciba, host Concordia University (Quebec) in an exhibition September 24 before opening the regular season with a pair of home contests against Connecticut Sept. 30 and Oct. 1.

RPI

The Engineers open at the University of Maine in Orono on September 24 and 25 and then return home to Ohio State on September 30 and October 1. The puck drops at 6 p.m. on Friday and 3 p.m. on Saturday.

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37

NY Hockey OnLine Magazine will begin its 6th Season!

We thank all of the organizations who have been supporting us with advertising, stores, photos and especially inviting us to their arenas and events.

Please continue to send us your news, especially tournament and special event dates. We will also accept your advertising at very reasonable rates.

NY Hockey OnLine is the source of youth/amateur hockey news in NY!

Contact Randy Schultz at Randy@nyhockeyonline.com or (716) 751-6524 or (716) (716) 870-4258 www.nyhockeyonline.com

ARMY SEASON PREVIEW

Something clicked for the Black Knights after spring classes resume as they went 6-2-3 down the stretch, defeated AIC in the first round at home and swept Holy Cross on the road before falling Robert Morris in the conference semi-finals.

“We are very excited about the upcoming season,” head coach Brian Riley said. “As a program, we feel that we took a big step last season making it to Rochester and playing in our League’s Final Four. We also understand that it’s going to take a lot of hard work to get back there. The good news for us is we feel that we have a team with a lot of experience and we are going to rely heavily on that experience. We are excited about the new players that we have added to our roster. These seven newcomers are not only a great addition to our team, but also to the Corps of Cadets.”

Senior goaltender Parker Gahagen (Buffalo) led the nation in save percentage last season and was a key component in the second half turnaround.

“He showed last year that he has all of the tools to be one of the top goalies in the country,” Riley said.

“We will need our older players to lead the way. We feel that we have talented players in every position. It’s our hope that the upperclassmen take a step and elevate their overall games and that our younger players from last year use that experience to give them a confidence level that will allow for them to be key contributors this season.

“By position up front we think Conor Andrle, Tyler Pham, and CJ Reuschelin have the talent to be top forwards in our League. We believe that newcomer Zach Evancho (Buffalo) has the ability to step in and make an immediate impact with our experienced forward group.

“On the blueline we bring back a great deal of experience; it’s a group that is led by our Captain Ryan Nick who we will lean heavily on for his ability and his leadership.

East Men’s College Ice Hockey Report

by Warren Kozireski Wkozires@brockport.edu

Blake Box and Mike Preston, both juniors, have played a lot of games in their first two seasons and they give us a real physical presence on defense. We are excited to have Boston University transfer Dalton MacAfee eligible to play this year as he adds to an already experienced group of defenseman.”

The Black Knights will need to focus right away as the visitor when Colgate opens their brand new Class of ’65 Arena Oct. 1. The team will also travel to UMass, host Brown and participate in the Ledyard Bank Classic at Dartmouth with UMass-Lowell and Colgate the last weekend of 2016 among the non-conference games.

“We think that we have a great schedule, as our non-league contests allows for us to play against some great teams, and our league schedule is very challenging as you have to be ready to play every night if you expect to come up with points. The most important thing for us as far as our schedule goes is to be playing our best hockey coming down the stretch heading into the playoffs.”

38

UNION SEASON PREVIEW

A seven-game unbeaten streak that ran from lateNovember to early-January couldn’t be sustained and the Dutchmen managed just four more victories the rest of the season in 2015-16.

It’s a new season and the team lost just two seniors who played regularly, so they are hoping that experience brings results.

“Going into this season our players and coaching staff is excited about the journey ahead of us,” head coach Rick Bennett said. “Our goal is to be a competitive team every night the Union College jersey is worn.

“We look for our leadership group consisting of Mike Vecchione, Jeff Taylor, Spencer Foo, Ryan Scarfo, and Eli Lichtenwald to help lead on and off the ice.”

Vecchione, Foo and sophomore Brett Supinski finished 1-2-3 in team scoring last year with Scarfo and Mike Pontarelli not far behind giving the squad at least two scoring lines.

Taylor (Clifton Park) with juniors Nick DeSimone (East Amherst), J.C Brassard and Connor Light anchor an experienced defense in front of returning senior goaltender Alex Sakellaropoulos.

This year’s recruiting class is comprised of forward Luc Brown (Napanee, Ontario/Wellington Dukes), forward Ryan Burton (Thunder Bay, Ontario/Cowichan Valley Capitals), forward Zachary Emelifeonwu (Kingston, Ontario/ Kingston Voyageurs), defenseman Vas Kolias (Schaumburg, Ill./Youngstown Phantoms), defenseman Ben Newhouse (Edina, Minn./Waterloo Black Hawks) and forward Anthony Rinaldi (Pierrefonds, Quebec/Kingston Voyageurs).

“We have a lot of away games this season which will provide many challenges throughout the entire year. If we’re going to be successful, it will be based on our consistency through five months of the playing schedule. The playoffs are another chapter!”

The schedule begins with six road non-conference games starting with a pair at Michigan. Trips to Vermont and Boston University along with a home game with North Dakota will also test the team during the intersession. The annual Mayor’s Cup game with RPI is Jan. 19 in downtown Albany with an earlier home-and-home Oct. 28-29.

2016 RENSSELAER SEASON PREVIEW

A conference-high seven ties had the Engineers in the middle of the ECAC pack last season and they won a first round series at home before falling at Harvard in the quarterfinals.

Eight seniors departed—two of them goaltenders leaving sophomore Cam Hackett the only returner after his impressive six win, 2.88 GAA campaign.

Riley Bourbonnais (Greece) is back after leading the team in goals and scoring as a junior.

One senior (Parker Reno) and a pair of juniors in Mike Prapavessis and Jared Wilson are expected to form the core of the defense.

The team will add four forwards, three defensemen and a goaltender to the roster for the 2016-17 season. Forwards are fourth round Ottawa draft pickTodd Burgess (Fairbanks/NAHL), Jacob Hayhurst (Cedar Rapids/USHL), Patrick Polino (Buffalo) (Lincoln/USHL) and Maximilian Reisinger (Minot/NAHL).

Orchard Park native Charlie Manley (Estevan/SJHL) joins the blueline corp. along with Will Reilly (Nanaimo/ BCHL) and TJ Samec (Brookings/NAHL) plus transfer goaltender and Detroit draft pick Chase Perry (Wenatchee/ BCHL) via Colorado College.

The opens with trips to Maine and North Dakota before hosting Niagara and RIT in October. Ohio State, New Hampshire and Arizona State also dot the non-conference slate.

39

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In addition, the Oyster Bay, New York, native dressed in seven games with Team USA at the U-18 World Junior Championships, helping the team capture the Gold Medal.

Thompson was ranked 20th among North American skaters

by NHL’s Central Scouting. ...PAL JR ISLANDERS: The PAL Jr. Islanders have signed forwards Jack Gaffney, Ian Keller and Nik Cherednicherko to its 2016-17 USPHL roster.

“We are excited to welcome all three to the Jr. Islanders. We are extremely happy in what we have seen from them,” said Head Coach, Ed Galiani.

“We are impressed with their character and commitment they have shown to our program. The staff is excited to get going and coach these players as new additions to the club.”

Gaffney, ’97, played last season for the Skipjacks 18U Club in the USPHL18U Division. He had 9 goals and 14 assists for 23 points in 25 games played.

“I’m excited to get going and getting the experience at the premier level,” the six-foot-forward said. “I’m looking forward to joining a good program and hopefully bring a championship to PAL.” Keller, ’97, skated last season for St. George’s High School (R.I.) where he had 23 goals and 13 assist for 36 points in 26 games played.

“I’m honored to continue my hockey career with the PAL Jr. Islanders. Personally, my ultimate goal is to play NCAA hockey. With the guidance of the Islanders superior coaching staff, I look to further develop my game,” said the Boca Raton, FL native. “At the same time, I plan to contribute to the Islanders success in hopes of helping the team to strive into the post season.”

Cherednichenko, ’97, played last year for Northfield Mount Hermon School and had two goals and seven assists for nine points in 20 games played.

“I’m looking forward to starting the season off strong with a great group of guys,” the Berkley, CA native said. “I can’t wait to get going and bringing a championship home to PAL.” The PAL Jr. Islanders Premier season kicks off on

Sunday, Sept. 17 vs. the New Jersey Hitmen. Puck drop is scheduled for 4:30 PM. For more information about the Jr. Islanders, head to paljrislanders.com. ...WESTCHESTER GIRLS HOCKEY: Contact Dave Mensi if anyone wants to join this team. skymensi@aol.com ...ARROWS YOUTH HOCKEY: The Arrows are holding a fundraiser for NYPD Sgt. Chris Christodoulou of the Manhattan South Counter Terrorism Unit on September 18 at 5 p.m. at the Freeport Rec Center. The game will feature the NYPD vs Arrows Alumni. Christodoulou is battling Glioblastoma, an aggressive and rare brain cancer. He is a member of the Arrows Youth Hockey Association. ...NASSAU COUNTY Youth Hockey is holding their Shape Ups for Fall at Canliague Park. See website.

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...NEW ROCHELLE YOUTH HOCKEY is still accepting players for the coming season.

...SAUGERTIES YOUTH HOCKEY is hosting a Pucks for Bucks shootout for boys and girls ages 7 to 14 in honor of Joseph Mongelluzzos. He is battling against Pediatric Bone Cancer. The event will be held September 10 at 5 p.m. at Kiwanis Ice Arena. There will also be a Survivor Shootout for adults ages 14+. Go to saugertiesyouthhockey.com for details.

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North Hockey

cludes a possible eight games against Hockey East foes, a notable Thanksgiving Holiday Tournament, a 16-date home slate, including a pair of contests against two traditional Big 10 powerhouse programs, and the always demanding 22-game ECAC Hockey circuit.

The 34-game schedule begins with a home-andhome series with the University of Vermont on October 7-8. The Green and Gold begin their 26th season at

by Warren Kozireski Cheel Arena hosting the Catamounts in a Friday night Wkozires@brockport.edu game before traveling to Burlington the next night to take on UVM at Gutterson Fieldhouse.

Merrimack and the University of New Hampshire CANTON come to North Country on October 14-15. Games Former Clarkson defenseman and Norwood na- against Hockey East foes continue the following tive Alex Boak has been named head coach replacing weekend when the Knights travel to New England to Trevor Gilligan after serving as an assistant coach for play at 2015 National Champion Providence College and UMass-Lowell on October 21-22. the Roos during the 2015-16 season.

Parents’ Weekend at Cheel will be a memorable Boak, a four-year standout defenseman one as Clarkson welcomes the first ever regfor the Golden Knights, appeared in 148 colular-season appearances in Potsdam of the legiate contests. He finished his career with University of Minnesota and the University of 31 points on seven goals and 24 assists. A teWisconsin on October 28-29. nacious enforcer that frustrated opposing forThe ECAC Hockey campaign begins with the wards, Boak led Clarkson in penalties during Knights hosting defending conference regular all four seasons. He was a standout not only season and tournament champion Quinnipiac on the ice but in the classroom as he was named to the University on November 4.

ECAC All-Academic Team three times.

The Knights will participate in the Shillelagh Tour Following his four year career with the Golden Knights, Boak went on to play professionally in the nament over the Thanksgiving Holiday weekend, batAmerican Hockey League (AHL) with the Wilkes- tling Notre Dame, Yale and Holy Cross at the CompBarre Scranton Penguins, the AHL affiliate of the ton Family Ice Arena in South Bend, IN on November NHL’s Pittsburgh Penguins. He played in 31 contests 25-26. tallying seven points on a goal and six assists, while The first game against archrival St. Lawrence University will take place at Appleton Arena in Canton on adding 80 penalty minutes.

Friday, December 9. The Knights will host the Saints on Saturday, February 4.

A game against Hockey East foe Northeastern CLARKSON University in Boston on December 30 closes out the The 2016-17 schedule for their 95th season in- 2016 half of the season.

Northern New York Men’s College Hockey Report

42

Paul Geiger, who completed his collegiate career with Clarkson this past season, has signed a one-year American Hockey League contract with the Rochester Americans.

A defenseman and a two-year captain for the Golden Knights, Geiger, 23, played in 150 career games for the Green and Gold, recording 51 points on 13 goals and 38 assists along with accumulating 70 penalty minutes.

Geiger signed an Amateur Tryout (ATO) with the Albany Devils at the end of his senior campaign and appeared in nine AHL games, recording two points (11).

POTSDAM Potsdam assistant coach Michael Callan has been hired as the new Head Men’s Ice Hockey Coach with first year program Chatham, who will begin Division III play during the 201718 academic year.

Prior to his two years with the Bears, Callan served as a full-time assistant with Ohio University’s ACHA Division 1 team primarily working with the forwards and goaltenders.

Callan would help lead Ohio University to a CSCHL Playoff Championship in 2013. Before arriving at Ohio University, Callan worked with the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League from January 2012 until July 2012 and served as the U.S. Director of Scouting for the League’s Central Scouting and Recruitment Department from November 2010 until January 2012,

thought we made good progress last year,” head coach Colby Jones said. “We graduated a good senior class, but we have a solid core group of returning players coming back who have had success. We are very excited about integrating our incoming class with our veterans. We are eager to start the upcoming season.”

The team does need to find more offense as leading scorer Sam Vigneault was the only player with more than eight goals. Seniors Jordan Boucher and A.J. Fossen are coming off career-best seasons and will be asked to at least repeat their output.

“We have some players who took a good step forward last year and my expectations are for them to make that next move into being impact players in our league. Looking upfront, a couple of key guys we can turn to right off the bat for some offensive production are Sam Vigneault and Jordan Boucher. I have high expectations for them to start the season.”

Two senior defenseman and co-starter in goal Greg Lewis is also gone. That leaves senior James de Haas plus juniors Terrance Amorosa and Kelly Summers as the core of the defense in front of likely number one Steve Perry in goal.

“We graduated some defensemen who played a lot for us over the years so there are a lot of minutes to be taken on the back end. James de Haas will be our leader back there and I am looking for some growth from the underclassmen. There will be some young guys on the back end that will see increased playing time. I am looking forward to watching their progression.”

Newcomers are Devin Brosseau, Sheldon Rempal, Haralds Egle and Nico Sturm at forward; Jere Astren, Dakota Ford (Hanawa Falls), Greg Moro and Jordan Schneider on defense and Jake Kielly from Tri-City in goal.

Vermont, New Hampshire, Merrimack, Minnesota and Wisconsin are among the non-conference teams visiting with Providence, Northeastern and UMassLowell the destinations.

“I think our non-conference schedule to start the year is extremely tough. We are excited about that. We have some good teams coming into Cheel. A couple of years, I did not think we had been pushed hard enough

43

CLARKSON SEASON REVIEW The Golden Knights were 11-5-1 during the 2016 portion of the schedule to finish in the middle of the ECAC pack. A pair of overtime wins in the first round of the playoffs and a pair of OT losses in the quarterfinals is how close they were to reaching Lake Placid.

Eight seniors have departed, but 18 lettermen return as they hope to build on that experience “We use every year as a stepping stone and I

and kind of smacked around enough to be prepared for our league schedule, which is really critical. We are 2016 ST. LAWRENCE SEASON PREVIEW going to be young in certain areas, so that first month is going to be a great challenge to set us up for ECAC A solid regular season led to a pair of overtime Hockey play.” wins in the ECAC quarterfinals before an overtime loss in the semi’s to Harvard and the Saints lost only four seniors who saw regular playing time.

ST. LAWRENCE That sparks optimism heading into 2016 under Senior forward Alex Dahl will captain the 2016-17 Massena native, former assistant coach and Clarkson St. Lawrence University men’s ice hockey team and head coach Mark Morris. defensemen Gavin Bayreuther, Eric Sweetman and The team goes as junior goaltender Kyle Hayton goes and he played over 2,000 minutes last season with 18 Ben Masella will be the assistant captains.

The Saints will open their first season under new wins, a 2.04 GAA and stellar .935 save percentage. head coach Mark Morris at Penn State on Oct. 6-7 to Most of the defense in front of him is back led by start a challenging series of non-league games. They senior and leading scorer Gavin Bayreuther, seniors will host New Hampshire and Merrimack the follow- Eric Sweetman and Ben Masella with juniors Nolan ing weekend before playing at UMass.-Lowell and Gluchowski and Matt Purmal.

Providence Oct. 21-22. Wisconsin and Minnesota Junior Joe Sullivan is the only returner who broke the ten goal mark in 2015-16 with senior Drew will visit Appleton Arena to conclude OctoSmolcynski and sophomore Jacob Pritchard ber with league play starting with Princeton probably forming the top line and power play and defending ECAC Champion and national unit. The key will be receiving offense from runner-up Quinnipiac at Appleton on Nov. 4-5. the second and third lines.

The Saints will play at Union and RPI and host The team had not officially announced their Yale and Brown on consecutive weekends berecruiting class as of press time. fore heading to Belfast, Ireland to play in the Friendship Four, playing their second league game of The Saints will travel to Penn State, UMass-Lowthe year against Quinnipiac in game one and meeting ell and Providence in the early part of the season while either Vermont or Massachusetts in the second round. hosting New Hampshire, Merrimack, Wisconsin and St. Lawrence grad Sean Flanagan has been named Minnesota. A trip for the Friendship Four in Belfast an assistant coach at Cornell. Flanagan played 121 ca- highlights the Thanksgiving break. reer games with the Saints up to the 2010-11 season.

He racked up 12 goals and 40 assists for 52 points, helping the Saints advance to the league’s championship weekend twice over his four years.

St. Lawrence men’s hockey alumnus and NCAA hockey coaching legend Ron Mason ‘64 passed away unexpectedly on June 13. He was 76.

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Northern Notes... ...Check out the Artic Foxes Women’s Ice Hockey

Team in Clifton Park. Check out their website at articfoxeshockey.net ...The North Country Cougars have announced a goalie development program that will help young goaltenders learn new strategies and techniques. the Program uses appropriate age and skill specific programs that will develop each goalie’s mental, physical and emotional skills to achieve a balance of “blocking” and “reacting” save. ...Saratoga Youth Hockey will present a pre-high school program from September 6 though Novemeber 5. The program will feature two ice sessions most weeks and up to 6 home game/scrimmae slots. The program will be run by Jeff Whiteside, who brings

years of coaching experience, including a State championship and several seasons supporting the BHS program. ...Saratoga Youth Hockey has also been assising the Pincheon family. Collette Pincheon has been struggling through treatment for breast cancer. A Go Fund Me Page has been set up for her at www.gofundme. com2gbaj9wg. ...Schenectady Youth Hockey opens their season on September 17 with games from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. featuring all their teams.

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45

NY HOCKEY ONLINE MAGAZINE

accepts all stories, game results, tournament news and photographs from hockey organizations throughout New York State.

This is a dedicated NYS Ice Hockey magazine, with website updated daily.

www.nyhockeyonline.com

ternoon.

Northern New York Women’s College Hockey Report

Plattsburgh

by Janet Schultz Janet@ nyhockeyonline.com

Potsdam

Three members of the Plattsburgh State women’s ice hockey team were selected to the 2015-16 Co-SIDA Academic All-America Division III at Large Team. Seniors, Bridget Balisy and Giovanna Senese each earned a spot on the second team after both being selected a year ago as well. Joining the pair of seniors on the second team is junior Camille Leonard. It is Leonard’s first Co-SIDA All-America selection.

Each year, Co-SIDA selects 45 men and women to compile three Academic All-America Division III At-Large Team for each gender. Each students not only plays a key part on in his or her sport but also excels in the classroom as well.

Balisy maintained a 3.90 GPA while double-majoring in Business Administration and Accounting. This year, the Brampton, Ontario native posted 44 points on 13 goals and 31 assists. Her assists were tops in division III women’s ice hockey. This is the second consecutive season that Balisy has been honored with both Women’s At-Large Academic All-America and All-Distract accolades.

Senese, too received her second straight Women’s At-Large Academic All-America and All-Distract nod. The Huntley, Ill., native held 3.98 GPA as a double-major in Mathematics and Physics at Plattsburgh State. This season, Sense scored 13 goals and added 22 assists to finish with 35 points. Senese closed out her career by being named part of the 2016 NCAA Division III Women’s Ice Hockey All-Tournament team. Senese was also named the Dr. Richard D. Semmler Award winner for female athletes at Plattsburgh

46

SUNY Potsdam athletics will be hosting its 2016 Bears Alumni Weekend and Hall of Fame Inductions the weekend of Sept. 30 - Oct. 1. The event will be in conjunction with SUNY Potsdam’s on going Bicentennial Celebration during 2016.

The weekend will feature alumni games in lacrosse and softball. The event will be highlighted by the 2016 Hall of Fame Induction ceremony Saturday evening. This year’s class, Cortney Poirier-Graney ‘10 (Moira), Jedidiah Hammill ‘03 (Winthrop) and David Dragone ‘98 (Bronx), will join the other 133 members of the Hall at 6 p.m. in Thatcher Hall.

During the weekend, Maxcy Hall will be open to all alumni and their families with activities including skating, swimming, and games in the field house. Saturday will also include a Bears Alumni 5k Walk/Run. Meet up with former teammates, our current athletes, and coaches to cheer on the Bears women’s soccer team as they battle SUNYAC foe Oswego State on Saturday af-

State.

Together, Balisy and Senese have accumulated many similar awards on and off the ice.

Each were named as an NCAA Elite 89 winner including Senese this year collecting the Elite 90 award for the second straight year. Both entered the 100-point club this season, being the ninth and tenth players in Plattsburgh State women’s ice hockey history to accomplish the feat.

Leonard was the only junior to receive Women’s At-Large Academic All-District honors and land on the All-America for the first time. The Oakville, Ontario product posted a 3.88 GPA majoring Social Work. This season, Leonard broke the Plattsburgh State women’s ice hockey singleseason record for shutouts in a season with 15, en route to a 27-1-0 overall record. She topped Division III women’s ice hockey in save percentage (.962) and goals allowed average (0.69). Furthermore, Leonard received numerous on ice awards including AHCA All-American first team and was announced to the NCAA and ECAC All-Tournament teams.

Renata Fast ‘16, a defenseman, headlined the Clarkson draft choices as the number 2 pick overall, going to the Toronto Furies. Joining Fast in Toronto is four-year classmate and Clarkson blueline partner Erin Ambrose ‘16, who was selected by the Furies with the seventh overall pick.

Shannon MacAulay ‘16, the Golden Knights’ captain the past two seasons, followed right behind as the eighth overall draft choice, chosen by the Brampton Thunder. A forward, MacAulay will join Brampton veterans Erica Howe ‘14, the Golden Knights’ all-time winningest goaltender, and Jamie Lee Rattray ‘14, Clarkson’s all-time leading scorer, on the Thunder roster. That trio, along with Fast and Ambrose, helped Clarkson win the 2014 NCAA National Championship.

Also going to Toronto, with the second pick in the 11th round was defenseman Carlee Eusepi ‘10. Goaltender Laura Dahm ‘11 was selected by the Boston Blades with the first pick in the 12th round.

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Clarkson Clarkson University Women’s Hockey was very present in the Canadian Women’s Hockey League (CWHL) Draft as several Golden Knight alums were selected to play in the professional women’s hockey league.

Five Golden Knight standouts, who help build the Clarkson program into one of the most respected in the NCAA, were among 76 players chosen by the five teams in the CWHL. Three former Knights were selected among the top eight picks of the seventh annual CWHL Draft, which took place at the Hockey Hall of Fame’s Doc Seaman Centre in Toronto on Sunday afternoon.

St. Lawrence

The Saints wil open with an exhibition game against McGill University on September 24 and then head to Northeaster for a doubleheader on September 30 and October 1. They return home October 7 against Clarkson at 6 p.m.

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West Hockey

Western New York Women’s College Hockey Report

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

Buffalo State

Buffalo State women’s hockey alumnae Nikki Kirchberger and Sarah Quigley are going pro.

The two were selected in the 2016 Canadian Women’s Hockey League (CWHL) Entry Draft over the weekend, getting a chance to continue their careers after a successful four years in the Bengals’ program.

Kirchberger was drafted by the Toronto Furies after finishing her career with the second most points produced in program history. She netted 31 goals and 31 assists for 62 points despite splitting time at both forward and defense. She also holds school records for most career games played (103) and most penalty minutes in a season (75, 2013-14).

With her great versatility, Kirchberger, a Buffalo, NY native, was drafted as a center, according to the Furies’ official team site.

Quigley, a selection of the Boston Blades, patrolled the crease during her time with the program, playing in 19 career games. She finished her career with a 4.52 goals against average, .853 save percentage and

won the team’s Bengal Award in 2016 for her commitment to the program.

The Canton, Mass. native graduated with an individualized studies degree from Buffalo State in the spring of 2016. Quigley was named to the All-Academic Team and Commissioner’s List after maintaining at least a 3.3 GPA to end her Bengal career.

The CWHL was founded in 2007 and is the highest women’s ice hockey league in Canada. It enables elite female hockey players the chance to pursue their dreams competing in a professional setting.

The CWHL is currently home to five teams: the Blades, Furies, Brampton Thunder, Calgary Inferno, and Les Canadiennes of Montreal.

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RIT

Scott McDonald, the Bruce B. Bates Women’s Hockey Coach at RIT, announced that senior Taylor Thurston (Kanata, Ontario/All Saints Catholic) will serve as captain for the 2016-17 season, while classmates Cassie Clayton (Pickering, Ontario/PEAC School) and Mackenzie Stone (Kars, Ontario/South Carleton) are the assistant captains.

“We couldn’t ask for a better group of captains to be role models for our younger players and to represent our team on and off the ice,” said McDonald, who is entering his 11th season behind the bench at RIT. “Most importantly, all three

student-athletes are great ambassadors in the community and great representatives of our program.”

Thurston will be in a leadership role for the third straight season, having served as an assistant captain in 201415, and team captain last year. A strong two-way defenseman, Thurston appeared in 33 games, last season, recording career-high totals of three goals and 12 points, while blocking 57 shots. Thurston, the 2015 College Hockey America Individual Sportsmanship Award winner, has appeared in 110 career contests with 31 points on four goals and 27 assists, while amassing just 18 penalty minutes.

Thurston will be the seventh player in the 42-year history of the RIT women’s hockey program to serve as a three-year captain, joining Sheila Stevenson (1976-79), Shelley Moore (1994-97), Jen Gorczynski (2001-04), Stacey McConnell (2004-07), Sarah Dagg (2008-11), and Kim Schlattman (2010-13).

“Taylor joins an elite group of three-year captains,” said McDonald. “She brings calmness, poise and steadiness to our team and is willing to do whatever it takes to help her teammates out.”

Clayton, who also served as an assistant captain in 2015-16, played in all 36 games for the Tigers last season, recording 12 points on four goals and eight assists, while leading the squad with 377 face-off wins.

In 2014-15, Clayton was named to the CHA Championship All-Tournament Team, while helping lead the Tigers to their second straight league title. She is one of RIT’s top defensive forwards, consistently shutting down the opponents best offensive threats. Clayton enters her senior season having recorded 27 points on 11 goals and 16 assists in 99 career games.

“Cassie brings a grit and toughness to our team that will hopefully translate to our younger players,” said McDonald. “Being a two-year captain, Cassie

knows what it takes to be an effective leader.”

Stone suffered a season-ending injury in RIT’s first game in 2015-16, but has rehabbed diligently to return in 2016-17. She did not miss a game over his first two seasons at the university, tallying 26 points on 11 goals and 15 assists in 76 games. In 2013-14, Stone scored five goals, all of which were game-winning tallies and had the primary assist on Lindsay Grigg’s game-winning goal that lifted RIT to the 2-1 double overtime win over Mercyhurst in the CHA Championship.

In 2015-16, she tied for second on the team in scoring with 16 points. Overall, she has eight career game-winning goals.

“Mackenzie has always been a bright spot in our lineup who plays with a lot of energy,” said McDonald. “We certainly missed her presence last season and are excited to get her back into the lineup and have her in a bigger leadership role.”

The Tigers will enter the 2016-17 season looking for their third College Hockey America title in four years. In 2014-15, RIT advanced to the NCAA Tournament for the first time as a Division I program since moving up in 2012.

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Buffalo Stars Announce First Spotlight Players for 2016-17 Collin Bisbee of the Midget U16 Full Season Team was named the first Buffalo Stars Youth Spotlight Player of the Week

as his favorite subject as he focuses on a career as a nurse or doctor.

Among his favorites are NHL Player Max Domi, pasta musical group Black Eyed Peas. the NHL Network and the movie Miracle on Ice. His favorite college team is Penn State. He lists his hobby as hanging with friends.

However he does have time for Baseball and Golf.

His role model is Olli Moatta because “nothing stops him” as he returned to NHL play one year after being diagnosed with cancer.

His personal hero is Derek Jeter.

Known as Double A (AA) by his friends he plans to get his team to the Nationals this season.

51

for August 14.

Bisbee is 15 years old and plays goalie. The 5’11” player is from Erie, Pa and is a 10th grader. He likes math and is pursuing a career in marine biology. His favorite NHL player is Matt Murray. He lists his favorite food as Salsa Chicken, favorite music: Alternative Rock and favorite movie, Tommy Boy. He is known as “Biz” by his close pals and plans to grow, develop and be noticed this season.

Anthony Angelo was named the Buffalo Stars Spotlight Player of the Week for the U16 Full Season Team for August 21.

Angelo is 16 years old and at 5’6” is a right wing.

He comes from Tonawanda and is in tenth grade with health

Opener Salutes the Troops

The Buffalo Stars will officially open the 2016-2017 Travel Team Hockey Season on Saturday, September 17th with their Annual Salute to the American Troops Day. Seven Buffalo Stars travel teams will compete as follows: 11:00am Minor Bantam AA 12:30pm Midget U15 AA 02:15pm Bantam Major AA 03:45pm Squirt Major AA 05:00pm Minor Peewee AA 06:30pm Midget U16 AA 08:15pm Midget U18 AA The Stars will also conduct a Chinese Auction as part of the event with all the proceeds going to the Wounded Warrior Project.

All games will be broadcast on our UStream Internet TV Channel: http://www.ustream.tv/channel/buffalo-starsjunior-hockey%20 Visit the Buffalo Stars on line at: www.buffalostars.com

West Section News and Notes... ...The Buffalo Regals have openings in their Fall House League. Contact Charlesl@rvone.com ...Dick’s Sporting Goods hosted a Canandaigua Youth Hockey Shop Day for players in that organization. ...The Perinton Blades 18U AA team won the Dwyer Arena Early Bird Tournament 2-1 over the Cazenovia Chiefs. They went 3-0 in round robin play. ...Southtown Stars has a new website. It can be found at southtownsstars.com ...The Tri-County Youth Hockey Bantam Travel Team is holding a golf tournament fundraiser on September 18 at Terry Hills Golf Course in Batavia. Call or text Rich Esposito (585) 770-3595 for information. ...The Tri-County Youth Hockey Pee-Wee Travel Team is holding a fundraising Euchre Tournament on September 10. For information contact Kris at Kivz.tcyh@gmail.com ...Tri-County Youth Hockey is holding a Try Hockey For Free Day on September 11, 12:25 to 1:55 p.m. and on September 24 1:30 to 3 p.m. at the Tuttle North Ice Arena in Brockport. This is for 4 to 9 year olds that are curious about ice hockey. ...The West Seneca Wings will hold a Meat Raffle to help the Pee Wee Major AAA Hockey Team. The Raffle will be held Saturday, September 17 from 6 to 10 p.m. at the Knights of Columbus, 261 South Legion Drive, Buffalo. Contact Kim Hearn at 572-5808 or hearnali2004@yahoo.com. ...West Seneca Youth Hockey is holding a Beginner Hockey Clinic for ages 4 to 8 who are new to hockey.

They need skates and a helmet. All sessions will be held at the West Seneca Rink. Check out the informaton on their website at www.westsenecayouthhockey. com

Stars Make Impression At EJEPL Showcase

T

he Buffalo Stars U16 Full Season team made their inaugural appearance in the EJEPL in grand form this past weekend skating away with a 4-1 record.

With a long bus ride to Connecticut and facing 5 games in 40 hours and 4 of those over a 23 hour span, the young Buffalo Stars squad knew they would have their hands full. The big question: Would they be up for the challenge?

Game 1 on Friday saw the Stars come out of the gate flying in their opening game against the Long Island Rebels as Gabe Kuglics recorded the Stars first ever goal in the EJEPL at just 2:03 into the first half. Play was back and forth all game long as the Rebels tied the score early in the second. The game remained tied as the half ended and the game went into overtime.

Buffalo Stars Connor Krupa captured the win for Buffalo on a nifty 20 foot shot just 35 seconds into the OT and the Stars recorded win #1 in their new league.

Game 2 on Saturday afternoon would see the boys face the York Devils. Again, both teams were evenly matched and Buffalo skated away with a 3-2 win in regulation. Buffalo goals came off the stick of Jason Lindhurst, Mark Narby and Joe DiBenedetto.

After a meal and a short rest, the Stars quickly returned to the rink to face the NY Cyclones. This game was a hard fought battle and the Stars and NY were both playing their 3rd game in 26 hours. Again, two evenly matched teams skated in wild end to end action with a combined 84 shots on net.

Buffalo actually held a 4-2 lead at one point but the Cyclones forced OT with two unanswered goals in the second half. The first OT ended scoreless and the Cyclones put the Stars away halfway through the second OT to capture the 5-4 win. Anthony Angelo scored the natural hat trick for Buffalo and scoring was rounded out by Joe DiBenedetto.

A bus ride back to the hotel, some pizza and salad and a short rest as the boys didn’t get back from the game until past 11:30pm.

Sunday morning saw an early rise at 5:30 with a quick breakfast and a long ride to the rink, the Stars would face off against the Philadelphia Revolution. Game time was 7:30am and once again two evenly matched teams battled

52

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(Continued on Page 60)

WBHL TOURNAMENT

53 T

om Iafallo was looking for summer hockey games for his daughter and came up with the WBHL. That was three years ago and the league is organized and run by the players; hence, I can’t identify the players by number because we didn’t have rosters. But the girls had a great time, played some hard-fought hockey and in the process enhance their own skills and camaraderie.

“It’s a chance for the girls to play,” said Iafallo.

In the end it was the Cheapskates taking the high school championship and the Mammoths taking the college-level championship for 2016. The playoffs and Championship was held at HarborCenter in Buffalo. Other teams were the Gougars, Pandas and Wombats in the College Division and the Mustanges, Excelsiors and Renegates in the High School Division.

I

l e v e L t x e N e Heading To th

tance of academics.

“Good skating is important,” said MacKenzie. “But you are going to school for an education so academics is the most important.”

There are 35 DI and 60 DIII women’s ice hockey programs that every young woman is vying to get into.

“The better you do in school, the more options you have,” stressed MacKenzie.

While coaches cannot reach out directly to players until their Junior year of high school, players can reach out to them.

Players, and/or their coaches, can send a letter via email describing themselves and their interest. The coaches in turn contat the player’s coach who calls the parents and player and then they can talk.

Confused, everyone is. But if a coach calls, they don’t text, you can be sure they are interested in the player.

However, MacKenzie advises wait until your freshman year in high school to reach out. Then just an email on who you are, who you played for, and possibly a transcript.

By Janet Schultz online.com Janet@nyhockey

n Western New York the name Scott Welch is synonymous with girls hockey. He has coached with the Buffalo Bisons, Nichols School and Niagara Junior Purple Eagles girl’s programs for many years. Along with that he has four daughters involved in the sport throughout the years at various levels.

Level is the operative word here.

He began as the Nichols Girls Hockey Camp that provided players an opportunity for on-ice training, off-ice training and interaction with coaches and players from DI and DIII colleges. The camp has filled every year and with its growing came the name Next Level.

I cover this camp every year and love the interaction between the head coach, instructors, Welch and the players. It’s fun but intense.

This year I attended the day University of Connecticut Head Coach and former Niagara Univeristy Men’s Ice Hockey Captain Chris MacKenzie was the featured instructor.

MacKenzie gave the girls insight into how to be recruited to a college team, what coaches look for and the impor-

55

Another suggestion of Coach MacKenzie is your Hockey IQ. Make sure you watch videos of yourself playing and analyze it and from there work on your skills. He also suggests having a coach watch with you.

Coach MacKenzie’s list of priorities is family first, academics, second and hockey, third. He stressed that several times after being questioned about studies and hockey.

About Next Level: The amp is designed to make a player the best they can be. Teaching players to become stronger, faster, smarter, skillful and preparing them to make their team better is the focus of the week-long camp.

The camper ratio is low and the coaches are experienced in delivering a first-rate program.

The camp is designed for the travel player looking to play at the next level of hockey, with the goal to eventually play college hockey or international/national hockey.

Learn more at www.NLHDgroup.com

56

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Western New York Men’s College Hockey Report

by Warren Kozireski

League (MnJHL).

Murphy was a four-year Division III hockey player at both Curry College in Massachusetts and Saint Mary’s University in Minnesota. Prior to college, Murphy played in the NAHL for the Toledo Ice Diggers and the Wasilla Spirit.

FREDONIA

Wkozires@brockport.edu

BUFFALO STATE After his record setting interim year, Steve Murphy was officially been named the head coach in early May. Murphy took the reins as interim coach in the summer of 2015 when Nick Carriere left Buffalo State for an assistant coaching position with the St. John Ice Caps of the American Hockey League. During his interim season, Murphy guided the Bengals to a school record for wins in a season with an overall record of 15-74. Buffalo State also finished 11-4-1 in SUNYAC play and posted its highest-ever finish in the conference standings, placing second. The Bengals appeared in the SUNYAC semifinals for the fifthconsecutive season and hosted the game for the first time in program history.

Murphy joined the Bengals’ staff as an assistant in 2013 with multiple years of combined experience coaching, scouting, officiating and playing. In his last stint before coming to Buffalo State, Murphy was the assistant coach and strength and conditioning coach for the Kenai River Brown Bears of the North American Hockey League (NAHL). He was also a head referee in the NAHL for the 2011-12 season and spent two years as a head scout for Kenai River. His other coaching experience includes stints as the head coach of the Alaska All-Stars U-16 team, as well as the assistant coach and director of player personnel for the Steele County Blades in the Minnesota Junior Hockey

Team captains for the 2016-17 seasons are senior Hunter Long and junior Jamie Young. Long, a forward, will serve as team captain after spending the past two seasons as assistant captain. He has appeared in 63 games over his first three seasons and has 11 goals and 25 assists. Young, a defenseman, will be the assistant captain. He has played in 48 games -- 24 in each of his first two seasons -- and has two goals and five assists.

57

NAZARETH

Former assistant coach Jared DeMichiel was added to the University of Massachusetts coaching staff.

He was an assistant at Nazareth from 2011 to 2014 and was a goalie at RIT from 2006 to 2010.

NIAGARA Associate head coach Tim Madsen has been named the head coach of the Minnesota Wilderness of the North American Hockey League after spending the past seven years on the Niagara coaching staff, beginning as an assistant coach in 2010 and rising to associate head coach in 2013.

Madsen served as the recruiting coordinator for the Niagara hockey team in each of his seven seasons behind

the bench. He was also charged with providing scouting reports for upcoming opponents, overseeing the penalty-kill unit, and coordinating community service activities for the Purple Eagles. Madsen began his Niagara coaching career in 2010 as an assistant coach. Madsen was promoted to associate head coach following the 2012-13 season, during which the Purple Eagles amassed a record of 23-10-5, winning the Atlantic Hockey regular-season title and becoming the first Atlantic Hockey program to earn an at-large NCAA Tournament bid.

R.I.T. The Tigers announced the Class of 2020 with seven first-year student-athletes, which includes four defensemen and three forwards.

Defensemen Darren Brady, Adam Brubacher, Chris McKay and Brody Valette are added to the blueline corp. that lost three players to graduation.

Brady played the last three seasons with the New Jersey Titans and the Soo Eagles of the North American Hockey League (NAHL). In 2015-16, he played in 58 games with New Jersey, serving as team captain and leading all defensemen in scoring with 33 points on nine goals and 24 assists and was named New Jersey’s MVP. Brubacher is a 6-foot-4 blue liner who played the 201516 season with the Prince George Spruce Kings and Powell River Kings of the British Columbia Hockey League (BCHL). He recorded 49 points on 18 goals and 31 assists in 58 regular season games between the two clubs and led all BCHL defenseman in goals and was third in points.

McKay, another big defenseman at 6-foot-5, 215 lbs., played the last three seasons with the Sherwood Park Crusaders of the Alberta Junior Hockey League (AJHL). Last season, McKay, a team captain, was second among Sher-

wood Park defensemen in scoring with 30 points on seven goals and 23 assists in 54 games and was fourth with 143 penalty minutes. He recorded three game-winning goals and a pair of power-play tallies.

Valette played the 2015-16 season with the Whitecourt Wolverines of the Alberta Junior Hockey League (AJHL), leading the team to a 42-12-6 record during the regular season. Valette, who stands 6-foot tall, led all Whitecourt defensemen in scoring with 13 goals, 21 assists, and 34 points in 57 games played, while setting team record for most goals in a season by a defenseman.

Forwards Shawn Cameron, Ryan Kruper and Jordan Peacock join the forward ranks that returns 11 members from last season’s squad that was among the top third in scoring nationally.

Cameron played the 2015-16 season with the Cumberland Grads of the Central Canada Hockey League and was named the CCHL’s Most Valuable Player after leading the league in scoring with 40 goals and 51 assists for 91 points in 61 games. Kruper played last season with McKay for Sherwood Park of the AJHL and was named to the Vittera North Division All-League Team in 2015-16. He led the Crusaders and was third in the league in scoring with 79 points on 30 goals and 49 assists in 60 games. Peacock will enter RIT as the tallest player in program history, standing 6-foot-6, 220 lbs. He played the 2015-16 season with the Burlington Cougars of the Ontario Junior Hockey League (OJHL) and recorded 58 points on a team-best 29 goals and 29 assists in 52 games.

The Tigers unveiled their 2016-17 season schedule and will play 34 regular season games in their 12th Division I season. RIT will play 16 regular season home games and one contest at Blue Cross Arena in downtown Rochester in addition to 17 away games.

The Tigers begin regular season play at home Oct. 7-8 with a pair of Atlantic Hockey contests against Robert Mor-

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ris University in a rematch of the 2016 league championship game.

The Tigers will play the University of Connecticut at Blue Cross Arena during Brick City Homecoming and Family Weekend on Saturday, Oct. 15 at 7:05 p.m. From there, RIT heads to the capital region of New York State to take on Union College and Rensselaer of the ECAC on Oct. 21-22. RIT hosts 2015 NCAA Division I National Champion Providence College of Hockey East for a pair of games at the Gene Polisseni Center on Dec. 9-10 and wrap up nonconference play at the Huntington Center in Toledo, Ohio to take on Bowling Green State University on Dec. 30.

With 11 teams in Atlantic Hockey, the Tigers will play four games against Air Force Academy, Bentley University, Canisius College, and Robert Morris and two each versus American International College, Army West Point, Holy Cross, Mercyhurst University, Niagara University, and Sacred Heart University. In all, 28 of RIT’s 34 games are against AHC rivals.

Massachusetts head coach Greg Carvel announced the addition of former Tiger goaltender Jared DeMichiel to his staff. DeMichiel joins the Massachusetts staff as assistant coach after spending two seasons with Carvel at St. Lawrence University. He got his start in coaching as an assistant at Nazareth from 2011 to 2014.

the injury list.

“Derian Plouffe is now a junior and will be counted on as a team leader in many areas, including playing significant minutes on both sides of the special teams ledger. Entering his senior season, TJ Sarcona (West Islip) has all-league potential if he plays a full season.”

Junior Stanislav Dzakhov and sophomores Nick Farmer, Sam Rennaker and Tanner Lomsnes all showed flashes of breaking out one year ago.

Also new is the assistant coaching staff with a new system across the board. Assistant coach Michael Findorff played for Miami (OH) in one of the top 4-year stretches in the program’s history (2005-09). A new second assistant coach was not announced as of press time.

“January will be the toughest month this season in that we will play ten games in 31 days, all in conference. That will be a segment with huge playoff implications.” The month ends with a stretch of four games in eight days–at Canisius 1/24, at Mercyhurst 1/27, vs. Mercyhurst 1/28, vs. Canisius 1/31.”

Among the non-conference contests are RI, Union and Penn State on the road with Ohio State visiting for a pair—all in the first six weeks of the season.

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2016 NIAGARA SEASON PREVIEW The Purple Eagles want to put the worst season in program history (six wins) in the rearview mirror, but there is no lack of optimism.

“We are very excited to get back in the mix for a regular-season title and first round playoff bye,” head coach Dave Burkholder said. “This season, we have a very demanding non-conference schedule, which will act as a measuring stick for where we fit in the national landscape.”

The team lost just four seniors, but three of them came from the blueline. That leaves seniors Vince Muto (Niagara Falls) and Kevin Patterson (who played several games at forward last season), juniors Larry Smith (Grand Island) and Keegan Harper and leading scorer among defenseman Niko Kovachis in front of senior goaltender Jackson Teichrob, who is healthy after starting the last two seasons on

2016 RIT SEASON PREVIEW The Tigers certainly put the kibosh on the theory of needing momentum heading into the playoffs. Going 2-42 down the stretch, they simply outscored their opponents 15-7 over four playoff games and won their second consecutive Atlantic Hockey title.

Now they try to defend after losing their top scorer and three senior defensemen.

“You miss different people for different reasons,” head coach Wayne Wilson said. “It happens almost every year with every team—the great unknown is where your leadership will come from.”

Not only did they lose three defensemen, but Alex Perron-Fontaine appears to have found a home at forward after the coaching staff moved him there last season. Junior twins Chase and Brady Norrish with senior Michael Holland and junior Mark Abt will see plenty of minutes on the blueline.

Their top line at the end of the season of Gabe Valenzuela, Liam Kerins and Erik Brown returns as does junior co-captain Myles Powell to lead the offense.

“We always depend on our seniors. Todd Skirving, Caleb Cameron and Danny Smith are the key ingredients—if they can have their best years, we’ll be in great shape. They have all been banged up through their first three years, so that will be a key.”

Another of those senior is goaltender Mike Rotolo (Greece), who battled injuries through most of the regular season, but was the go-to during the postseason run. Sophomore Christian Short will push for even more playing time after faring well in 16 starts as a freshman.

The team welcomes seven first-year players with four defensemen and three forwards. Defensemen Darren Brady, Adam Brubacher, Chris McKay and Brody Valette plus forwards Shawn Cameron, Ryan Kruper and Jordan Peacock.

UConn will be this year’s opponent for the annual Brick City Homecoming Oct. 15 at Rochester’s Blue Cross Arena. The team will also travel to Union/RPI and Bowling Green plus host Providence for two games on the non-conference slate.

2016 CANISIUS SEASON PREVIEW

With leading scorers Shane Conacher and Ralph Cuddemi departed and taking 40 of last season’s team total of 92 goals with them, the Golden Griffins will look to others to step into top power play minutes and assume scoring responsibilities.

Junior Ryan Schmelzer (Buffalo) was the only other players to reach the ten-goal mark, but sophomore Dylan McLaughlin (Lancaster) showed flashes of offensive promise in his first season. So did fellow freshman forward Felix Chamberland.

All but one defenseman is back with sophomores Cameron Heath and Jimmy Mazza (Kings Park), senior Geoff Fortman and junior Jack Stander likely in the top four.

Sophomore goaltender Simon Hofley sported a 2.71 GAA and .920 save percentage in his first year.

Forwards Casey Jerry and Jesse Pereira, defensemen Dan Fritz and Matt Stief plus goaltenders Daniel Urbani, Blake Weyrick and Charles Williams join early signees forwards Matt Hoover and Nick Hutchison (Hicksville) to form a nine-member freshman class in 2016-17.

The team will accrue frequent flyer miles early with trips to play North Dakota and both Alaska teams to begin the season. A trip to Penn State plus hosting St. Lawrence for two completes the non-league schedule.

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(Buffalo Stars Continued from Page 52) in every part of the ice and once again, a late mistake led to the Revolution forcing the game into OT. Mark Narby and Anthony Angelo scored for Buffalo in regulation but the hero of the game was Kyle Lee as he slammed home a 30 foot rocket at 2:38 in the OT to capture win #3 for the Stars.

A quick undress and a ride back to the hotel to check out.

The hotel was gracious enough to extend breakfast just for us so the boys were able to grab another quick bite to eat, load the bus and head off to their 1pm contest. This would be their biggest challenge yet as the tired Stars team would play their 4th game in 23 hours. This opponent would be the Long Island Arrows.

A fairly even game ensued but the fatigue on the Stars team was starting to show. The Stars scored first with goals off the stick of Anthony Angelo and Kyle Lee but Long Island tied the game in the second half and once again, the Stars would face overtime... their 4th in five games. But the Stars were determined and late in the overtime Joe DiBenedetto stripped the Arrows defenseman at the blue line and broke in with a nifty roof top shot to bring the Stars to victory. The entire Stars team exploded in a show of

emotion as they mobbed their teammate and skated off exhausted but elated with a solid 4-1 weekend record.

The Stars Goaltending duo of Collin Bisbee and Grant Zell were outstanding facing a combined total of 139 shots over the 5 games.

“The weekend was a great bonding experience for the boys and many in the league took notice. The boys played hard and I was extremely proud of how they handled themselves both on and off the ice” said Head Coach Mark Mendel.

Training Camp wraps up tomorrow morning and then the team has a much needed week off. They resume action next week as they face off against the Bisons in their first WNY League game September 7th.

For more information about the Buffalo Stars make sure to visit us on line at: www.buffalostars.com You can also follow the Stars on Facebook and Twitter. Visit the EJEPL on line at: www. ejepl.com

Rochester Receives Recognition

T

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he NewEdge Hockey Summer Development Program came to a close Sunday in Philadelphia as the U16 Prospects finished with a strong 10 wins - 3 losses - 0 ties record. In addition to two 1st place division finishes, and a Gold Medal, the Prospects had an impressive 78 goals for and just 19 goals against.

Although NewEdge Hockey trains players from 5 different US states and from Canada, the NewEdge Hockey Development/Showcase Program is made up of players from Rochester, NY. We are very proud of our Rochester, NY hockey players and we work very hard to provide the most advanced hockey training and showcase program in the area.

Our U16 Prospects received interest from the following programs; NCAA D1/D3 programs NAHL NCPHL CJHL BCHL 5 PREP Schools

“I came to scout the U18 teams and after watching what I thought was a very strong U18 team, I found out I was watching the NewEdge Prospects U16 team. Needless to say, I took a ton of notes and immediately tracked down Coach Sedia after the game� NAHL PA Staff

Pictured from top left: Sam DiPasquale, Chad Williams, Tyler Jones, Kyle Leatt, Gus Aldridge, Sam Sedia, Aidan Hooper, Brenden Howell, Tim Lischer, Tyler Nash.

From bottom left: Dom Delvecchio, Kyle Kimpton, Dom Dentino, Tyler Blackburn, Jeremy Swartz, AJ Huck, Carson Fotheringham, Noah Schwartz

Your Source For NYS Hockey News!

NY HOCKEY E-Magazine

62 A Day of Golf with the Buffalo Regals Girls.

Thanks Larry Blas, we had a great time for a good cause!

Between Periods at the Buffalo Sabres vs Philadelphia Flyers Game October 2015

Sedia’s Hockey Program A Huge Success.

I

n January 2014 NY Hockey OnLine Magazine ran a story titled, “Sedia Impacting Youth Hockey Development in Rochester.” The story was about NewEdge Hockey owner, professional hockey New Edge Prospect Dam DiPasquale prepares for another shot on net. trainer, and hockey coach, Rob Sedia.

DiPo’s “shooters mentality” helps create offense and scoring chances for the The article shared information about Rob’s Prospects. role in the development of youth hockey players in the Rochester market as well as his team’s NewEdge Hockey,” said Sedia. “Their professionalsuccess. ism, business knowledge, and view of my com Today, just pany as a year later, value addnot only has ed to their Rob’s proalready gram grown, impresit is receiving sive service some serious menu set attention. In them miles March, 2016 apart from NewEdge my other Hockey acchoices. cepted a “I was partnership also exoffer from tremely Bill Gray’s impressed Regional Icewith BGRI Plex in Henrifor doing etta. their home Accordwork on my ing to Sedia company this has set and telling the foundame they tion for an have a best incredible future. in class partnership philosophy. That is why they wanted “My first meeting was with BGRI General Manager, NewEdge under their roof.

Chris Woodruff, and after 30 minutes with Chris I knew “The entire BGRI staff is as classy as it gets and conwithout question that BGRI would be the new home of stantly provides high levels of customer service with a

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smile.”

NewEdge Hockey got to work immediately and hosted their 2016 Summer Development Programs on BGRI ice. The Summer Development Programs are geared toward the more serious player in the 20002003 birth years.

The schedule is pretty intense with 25 demanding strength and fitness sessions facilitated by NewEdge Hockey partner, Parisi Speed School (run by Billy Sauer) and 25 high performance on-ice sessions run by NewEdge Hockey staff members.

NewEdge Prospect Sam Sedia outworks Philadelphia Jr. Flyers and In addition to this demanding summer schedule, dishes off to teammate Gus Aldridge the U16 Program attended two elite AAA showcase who scores and moves the team to a 2-0 lead. tournaments. Not only did BGRI customers take notice of the professionally run programs, but word contina week. Not only is my son getting better training with ued to spread about the elite training taking place.

NewEdge, we are saving valuable time and money. This is It wasn’t long before NewEdge Hockey was inuna win, win, win for our family.” Doug, Fairport, NY dated with requests for private lessons forcing NewEdge “Thank you for caring about what you do. Thank Hockey to run multiple times per day, seven you for being amazing at what you do. Thank you days a week. for giving my son the attention you do. Thank you Here is just a sampling of customer testifor giving me my money’s worth and much more.” monials: Kellie P., Spencerport, NY “Christmas came early for Bill Grays Hockey “Best one two punch you will find. NewEdge Arena when they brought in NewEdge Hockey and Parisi and like an elite hockey assembly line and Parisi Speed School! Well done.” – James A., putting out a serious product. Bravo! The Martin Family, Penfield, NY Rochester, NY “Now I don’t have to drive to Buffalo three times It wasn’t just the customers who took notice. The NewEdge Prospects (U16 AAA Summer Development Program) received just as much attention, if not more.

The team finished their summer AAA schedule at 13-3-0 with two first place division finishes, a Gold Medal in Canada, and interest from the following hockey programs: NCAA D1/D3, NAHL, WSHL, NCPHL, CJHL, BCHL, and five Hockey Prep Schools.

OneHockey awarded 15 year-old NewEdge prospect defenseman, Jeremy Swartz, the 2016 NCAA Top Prospect Award.

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BOB JANOSZ

NHL/AHL Developmental Goalie Coach - 9 years USA Hockey Scout/Coach - 9 years Helped 100 + goalies get to the Pro, Collegiate, Junior & Prep School ranks

T r aining for All A ge s & Skill Levels WWW.BOBJANOSZ.COM

(716) 308-9224

INFO@BOBJANOSZ.COM