May 2012

May 2012 Volume 1; Issue 8 In This Issue:

2 1 1 1 0 s 2 d r a w A e g e l l Co e u s Is

Youth Team Stories Submitted by Our Readers!

New York City All Stars -- 2012 National Champions

2012 ROCHESTER EDGE SUMMER CAMP

July 22nd*-­26th 9am-­4pm $350

July 22 - 26; 9 am - 4 pm; $350 �3 hours on-­‐ice

*3 Hours �Athletic Republic Skating on-ice Treadmill and * Athletic Republic Skating Treadmill Plyometrics

and Plometrics * Rapid Shot and Shooting Rooms

�Team b uilding * Team Building * Daily prizes giveaways �Daily prizes and and giveaways * Camp Kickoff July 22, �*Camp Kickoff July 22nd 3:30-­‐7:30pm 3:30-7:30 pm �Opening a nd closing ceremonies

* Opening and Closing Ceremonies * Theme Days Days �Theme �Rapid Shot and Shooting Rooms

Rochester Youth Hockey 2700 Brighton-Henrietta Townline Road Rochester, New York, 14623 Rochester Youth Hockey, affiliated with USA Hockey and NYSAHA as a T1/AAA organization, provides quality coaching, competitive hockey and comprehensive training at one convenient location - The Sportscentre @ MCC. Our Tier I/AAA Alliance & Amerks youth travel teams participate in the Empire West Amateur Hockey League (EWAHL).

The Rochester Edge Girls’ travel program will again field teams at the 10U thru 18U levels. Our Edge teams attract WNY’s most advanced players and consistently compete for NYSAHA and USA Hockey’s National championships. Our Edge program remains the Rochester area’s only T1 program offering the highest level of competition, competing in the Lower Lakes Female Hockey League (LLFHL). Many of our Edge Alumni have reached the D1 and D3 collegiate levels and, most impressive, have earned roster spots on USA Hockey’s national team. Our Edge program’s accomplishments speak for themselves.

Our ‘House’ program continues to grow and thrive; with teams at all levels including Initiation/Pony, Mite, Squirt, PeeWee, Bantam and Midget. Our ‘House’ teams compete in the Empire Amateur Hockey Conference and have captured numerous regular season and playoff championships in recent years. Our ‘House’ coaches follow and implement similar coaching plans and strategies, as do our Edge and Amerks’ travel coaches.

Welcome to the NEW NY Hockey On-Line Magazine!

3663 Irish Road Wilson, New York 14172 716-751-6524 nyhockeyonline@gmail.com Publisher &Managing Editor Randy Schultz Randy@nyhockeyonline.com Designer/Photographer Janet Schultz Janet@nyhockeyonline.com Columnists Warren Kozierski, Koz@nyhockeyonline.com Janet Schultz Randy Schultz NY Hockey OnLine is an equal opportunity employer.

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

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Dear Readers,

As I mentioned to many of you nearly nine months ago when we introduced Hockey New York State E-Magazine, there would be some changes to the publication as we moved along.

Well, changes are upon us. First, you may have noticed the change in name. The magazine is now known as New York Hockey On-Line.

Second, to find us simply go to Nyhockeyonline.com.

Finally, there has been a change in our logo.

So what happened? To begin, our original co-owner Steve Manson decided to go in a different hockey direction. We wish him well.

As the sole owner of NY Hockey OnLine, I plan on continuing to present our readership with the same outstanding coverage of the amateur hockey scene in New York that we always have. Our same trio of writers will provide you with that including Janet Schultz, Warren Kozierski and yours truly.

We are currently updating our new web page. We hope you will enjoy our new look as well as our continued coverage of amateur hockey across the State of New York. Back issues of the magazine will also be posted.

So what else do we need? Simply said, we would like you to pass this information along to all of your hockey players and their families. Since we don’t have access to all of those emails, this will be very important to the success of our magazine.

Second, continue to provide us with your news. You can email any of us at our new email addresses.

Finally, we are still looking for advertising. If you have leads to any businesses that would be interested in advertising in NY Hockey OnLine, please contact us. Remember, the life blood of our publication is going to be advertising.

NY Hockey OnLine is still FREE. It will to be emailed to you on a monthly basis, 12-months a year.

So it is business as usual for all of us here at NY Hockey OnLine. Janet, Koz and I will continue to contact you each month for more news and notes.

As our slogan says we are “All amateur, all hockey, all New York State.”

Thank you for your understanding and continued support.

See you at the rink.

Randy Schultz

Publisher &

Managing Editor

NY Hockey OnLine

NY Hockey OnLine

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Central Section Girls Hockey Clinic July 14 9 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.

July 15 9:30-11:00 a.m.

The clinic will be held at Skaneateles Community Center

COLGATE

NYS HOCKEY COLLEGE REPORTCENTRAL

the ice.

The Rob Ries Award, which is given to he Colgate men’s the player who provided hockey team held its the most inspiration and annual team banquet leadership to the team, giving out awards and also went to senior Mark Nasca. announcing the captains for

By Warren Kozireski The forward played in a the 2012-13 season. career-high 32 games this

All the awards were season for the Raiders and voted on by the players, registered three points. except for the Best Offensive Player and Coaches Award.

He had great success in the classroom this

The big winner of the night was senior Matt Firman, who season and is a finalist for the ECAC won the Steve Riggs Memorial Award and the Whit Williams Hockey Student-Athlete of the Year Award, In addition to that Award. Firman played in 39 games this season and finished honor, he was a recipient of a Dana Scholarship and was acwith 149 games in his career as a Raider. He had a great year cepted a member of Phi Beta Kappa. on the ice, setting career-highs in the three offensive categories

The Dan Coley “Barrell” Award, which is given to the with seven goals and eight assists for 15 points. He also tied a best defenseman, was received by senior Corbin McPherson. A career-high with two multi-point games this season. The Riggs tri-captain for the Raiders, McPherson played in all 39 award is given to the player who is most known games and finished his career with 152 games played. for gentlemanly play and possesses a high standard He finished his career with 10 goals and 23 assists and of ability, while the Whit Williams Award is given five of his 10 goals were gamewinners, including two to the most improved player. The winner has great this season. McPherson had a three-game point scoring integrity and a passion for the game of hockey and streak including an assist at Rensselaer (2/4) and goals through his commitment to excellence, improved the against Yale (2/10) and Brown (2/11). most over his career or season.

McPherson also won the Best Defensive

Austin Smith also took home a couple of honors Player Award, which was split with Chris Wagner. The with the Best Offensive Player Award for leading two played exceptional defense all season long and both were scorer and the Terry Slater Trophy. The trophy is awarded by at the top of the league in plus-minus throughout the season. the Silver Puck Club and goes to the senior whose perforWagner finished the year right behind Smith with a +21 rating, mance, leadership, and dedication on and off the ice during his while McPherson had a plus-nine.

Wagner stepped up his game career had the greatest impact on Colgate hockey. Slater, who with 51 points this season to join Smith on the 50-point single presided over the Raider hockey program for 15 years, passed season club and the two became the first duo to reach 50 points away due to a stroke at the midway point of the 1991-92 seain the same season since Mike Harder ‘97 and Chris DeProfio son.

‘97.

Wagner ended the year on fire with five goals in the best Smith led the nation in goals with 36 and averaged just of-three series against Quinnipiac and was held scoreless just under a goal a game this season with 39 games played and was three times since the New Year.

He recorded 30 points in the a Hobey Hat Trick Finalist. He led the country in shorthanded final 21 games of the season and nine of those contests were goals with six and was third in the nation with 57 points. He multi-point games. had 16 multi-point games and two hat tricks.

The coaching staff gave out its annual Coaches Award and

Smith had the most goals by an ECAC Hockey player that went to student manager Jaime Helibron. The senior from since Clarkson’s Todd White in 1996. He tallied a point in all Panama has been with the team since his freshman year as the but five games and finished the season with a team-high +25 on

T

NY Hockey OnLine manager and has been in integral part of the Raiders ever since arriving on campus. He was always at the rink early to set up the benches and went to every practice. Helibron is also a sports editor for the Maroon News and wrote the stories for men’s hockey throughout the season.

Colgate also named its captains for the 2012-13 season and all three are blueliners. Thomas Larkin will be a captain for the second-straight season and he will be joined by seniors Jeremy Price and Nathan Sinz.

CORNELL

T

he Cornell men’s hockey team held its annual awards banquet at the Lake Watch Inn announcing postseason award-winners and captains for the 201213 season. Sophomore goalie Andy Iles took home the night’s top honor by winning the Nicky Bawlf Award as the team’s most valuable player, and current juniors Erik Axell, Braden Birch and Nick D’Agostino have been selected to lead the team next season as tri-captains.

Seniors Keir Ross and Sean Collins, juniors Braden Birch, D’Agostino and Erik Axell, and freshman Brian Ferlin also earned postseason awards. Each award, as well as team captaincy, is voted upon by the players on the 2011-12 roster.

Iles finished the season as one of just two goalies across the Division I landscape to serve as his team’s goaltender exclusively for the entire season. He posted a 19-9-7 record with a 2.12 goals-against average which ranked 10th in the country.

He was also recognized for his six shutouts on the season, which was just one behind the national leaders. The Big Red has at least one shutout in 17 consecutive seasons. Iles also won the Joe DeLibero-Stan Tsapis Award for skilled efficiency, unselfish dedication and hard-nosed competitive desire.

Keir Ross took home a pair of awards on the night. He was tabbed for the Bill Doran Sportsmanship Award after serving as the team’s sole captain in the 2011-12 season. He had two goals and five assists while posting a career-high rating of plus-15, which was highest among the Big Red’s defensemen for the second consecutive season. He was also one of 10 finalists for the Lowe’s Senior CLASS Award. Ross was also given the Mark Weiss Memorial Award, which is awarded to a senior with a career-long dedication and passion for the sport of hockey.

Braden Birch was presented the Cornell Hockey Association Award, which is given annually to the player whose contributions to the team doesn’t show up in the box score, but rather are in the form of energy, heart and hustle. Birch fit that mold to a T, serving as one of the top defensive defensemen in ECAC Hockey. He went two months without being on the ice for an even-strength goal against — a streak covering 12 games and 668 minutes, 49 seconds.

The Sam Woodside Award for overall career improvement by a senior went to Sean Collins, who enjoyed a breakout season with 13 goals and 13 assists for 26 points, which ranked sec-

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ond on the team only to Greg Miller’s 31 points. He set or tied career highs in goals, assists, points, plus/minus rating, powerplay goals and game-winning goals. After the Big Red’s season ended in the NCAA regional finals, Collins signed a contract with the NHL’s Columbus Blue Jackets and notched a goal and four assists for five points in just eight games with Columbus’ American Hockey League affiliate, the Springfield Falcons.

Erik Axell received the Iron Man Award, presented to the player who showed determination to overcome injuries. Axell played in all 35 games on the year, accumulating a career-high four points while serving as one of the team’s primary penaltykillers.

The Greg Ratushny Award for the most promising rookie went to Brian Ferlin, who was selected as the Rookie of the Year in both the Ivy League and ECAC Hockey. He finished second in league rookie scoring with 17 points in 19 conference games, but led that race until a late-season injury shelved him and allowed Quinnipiac’s Matthew Peca to surpass him.

D’Agostino claimed the Crimson Cup, given to the player who was the standout performer in the season series against Harvard. Against the Crimson this season, D’Agostino scored two power-play goals in the Big Red’s 4-2 victory on Nov. 11 in Cambridge, Mass., and then he added an assist in the 2-2 tie on Jan. 21 at Lynah Rink.

The team also issued awards to players who scored shorthanded goals during the season — freshmen Joakim Ryan (who had two) and Joel Lowry, junior Vince Mihalek and seniors Locke Jillson and Collins.

Axell, Birch and D’Agostino will serve as the program’s first tri-captains since the 2000-01 season, when Andrew McNiven, Larry Pierce and Danny Powell all wore the ‘C’ for the Big Red in Mike Schafer’s sixth season as the Jay R. Bloom ‘77 Head Coach of Men’s Hockey.

HAMILTON The Hamilton College men’s hockey team held their annual awards banquet at the Skenandoa Club in Clinton.

Mike DiMare ‘14 was selected the 2012 Most Valuable Player. The forward made the NESCAC all-conference first team after he finished second in the conference with 33 points, third with 16 goals and tied for fifth with 17 assists.

Evan Haney ‘14 received the Albert I. Prettyman Award.

The award is presented in memory of Albert Prettyman, who was the founder of Hamilton hockey and the College’s first hockey coach from 1918 to 1943. He was also the U.S. Olympic Coach in 1936. This award is presented to the player who demonstrated outstanding dedication, determination and desire.

His attitude has proven to be not only an asset to his team, but an inspiration to his teammates and coaches.

Joe Quattrocchi ‘14 received the Coaches Award, which is given to the player who the coaching staff believed had a strong season and impacted the game in a positive and signifi-

NY Hockey OnLine cant manner. The goalie posted a 3.23 goals against average in more than 1,200 minutes, a .905 save percentage and two shutouts in 19 starts.

Bennett Schneider ‘14 received the Most Improved Player Award, which is given to the player who showed great dedication to improve his game throughout the season or from the previous season. The defenseman was credited with three assists and played in all 25 games.

Bryan Kelly ‘12 received the Michael S. White Award, which is given to a graduating senior in recognition of team spirit, leadership and integrity, and whose enthusiasm for the game makes it a great experience for all players. Kelly finished his 98-game career with 28 goals and 23 assists for 51 points.

Sam Choate ‘12 received the Sellers Award. The award is presented to the player who, in the judgment of his teammates and coaches, has contributed greatly to the success of the program through his effort and performance both on and off the ice. The forward appeared in 77 games during his college career.

Choate was also one of the top hitters in Hamilton baseball history.

Pat Curtis ‘15 received Rookie of the Year honors. This award is given to the freshman who made the most impact to the success of the team in his first season. The forward scored seven goals and added nine assists in 25 games. Curtis ranked third on the team with 16 points.

HOBART Six members of the Hobart College ice hockey team were recognized by the Statesmen Athletic Association and the Hobart College Athletics Department at the annual Block H Awards dinner. Senior forward Greg Ciciola was honored with the Boswell Award as the team’s most valuable player.

Junior Marty Ausserhofer was presented with the Holden Award, while the D. Michael Hazelton ‘85 Memorial Award was given to juniors Frank Salituro and Bobby Hannah. The Rookie Award for Hockey went to first-years Tommaso Traversa and Ryan Michel.

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An All-ECAC West honoree and team captain, Ciciola led the Statesmen with 15 goals and ranked second with 24 points. He finished the season second in the ECAC West in goals and ranked 11th in points. Ciciola was tied for 10th in the league with 11 power-play points and tied for sixth with six power-play goals.

He recorded a season-high four points on two goals and two assists in a 10-3 win over Manhattanville. Ciciola logged two goals in a 5-0 rout of Neumann in the ECAC West championship game, earning a spot on the All-Tournament team.

In 82 career games, he has recorded 37 goals and 31 assists. Ciciola has earned a spot on the ECAC West All-Academic Team for the last four years. He also received the William C. Stiles ‘43 Award.

An ECAC West All-USCHO.com first team selection, Ausserhofer played 17 games in goal, starting 16. He posted a 2.34 goals against average and a .911 save percentage.

Ausserhofer logged a 10-5-1 record in net, and earned a shutout stopping all 20 shots he faced in a 4-0 win over Potsdam. He finished with a career-high 35 saves in a 4-1 victory at Neumann. Ausserhofer finished the season ranked atop the ECAC West in goals against average and second in save percentage. He was tabbed ECAC West Goalie of the Week Twice and earned a spot on the ECAC West All-Academic team for the second straight year.

Salituro played in all 27 games this season and led the Statesmen with 26 points on 11 goals and a team-high 15 assists. He recorded a season-high of three points on a goal and two assists against then No. 11 Elmira and in a 10-3 triumph over the Valiants. Salituro scored the game-winning goals in a 4-2 win over Buffalo State and in a 3-0 shutout of Manhattanville. He finished the year tied for first in the ECAC West with 14 power-play points and tied for second with seven power-play goals. Salituro was also tied for eighth in the conference in points, tied for ninth in goals, tied for 12th in assists, and tied for sixth in game-winning goals (2). He garnered

All-ECAC West honorable mention and ECAC West All-USCHO.com second team honors. Salituro also earned a spot on the ECAC West All-Academic team for the second straight year.

Hannah played in 26 games this season. He scored seven goals and added four assists. Hannah notched two goals in a 5-4 win over the then No. 11 Soaring Eagles. He logged the short-handed game-winning goal in a 5-0 victory over Neumann in the ECAC West Championship game. Hannah earned a spot on the ECAC West All-Tournament team for his efforts. He also earned a spot on the ECAC West All-Academic Team for the second year in a row.

The ECAC West All-USCHO.com Rookie of the Year, Traversa logged 10 goals and 10 assists in his first season as a Statesman. He earned spots on the All-ECAC West and ECAC West AllUSCHO.com rookie teams and garnered Rookie of the Week honors twice during the season. Traversa recorded a hat trick, including the gamewinning goal in a 5-2 win over Curry.

He logged the game-winner in a 10-3 rout of Manhattanville. He recorded three straight three-point games against Manhattanville on Feb. 17, 18 and 25.

Traversa shared the conference lead for first-year scoring.

Michel played in 26 games in his rookie season. He tied for second on the team with 11 assists and chipped in

three goals. Michel scored his first collegiate goal on what proved to be the game-winner in a 5-1 victory over Salve Regina. He played a key role in the Hobart defense that

finished the season ranked first in scoring defense (2.59 g/gm). Michel ranked third in the ECAC West in first-year scoring and tied for fourth in defenseman scoring.

The Statesmen posted a 16-10-1 overall record and won the ECAC West Championship for the second time in program history. Hobart finished the year ranked No. 9 in the D3hockey.com poll, No. 13 in the USCHO.com poll and No.

NY Hockey OnLine

8 in the NCAA East Region Rankings. It was the Statesmen’s 10th consecutive winning season.

OSWEGO Oswego State junior men’s ice hockey player Jon Whitelaw has been honored as a State University of New York (SUNY) Chancellor’s Scholar-Athlete Award winner for the 2011-12 academic year. The award is given annually in each sport to a First, Second, or Third Team All-Conference member with the highest grade-point average and has completed three or more semesters.

Whitelaw, an adolescent education major, posted the top GPA among men’s ice hockey All-SUNYAC honorees with a 3.49 cumulative average. He led the Lakers in points and goals with 41 and 19, respectively, while sitting in second place on the team with 22 assists. The Second Team All-America and First Team All-SUNYAC selection tied for the league lead in points (27) and was first in goals (13). He also led the team with seven power-play and four game-winning goals. Whitelaw joined the 100-point club earlier this season, and now has 109 points on 43 goals and 66 assists in his career.

Whitelaw becomes just the fifth Oswego State studentathlete to garner the award since its inception in 2003-04.

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UTICA Senior Tim Coffman was named a 2012 recipient of the Richard “Dick” Miller Most Inspirational Player Award at the College’s Pioneer Hall of Fame and Senior Athlete recognition dinner.

The Dick Miller Award, which has recognized 59 UC student-athletes since 1987, honors dedication to physical fitness, athletic competition and a commitment to excellence. It is awarded annually to deserving male and female senior student-athletes who have exhibited excellence, determination, hard work and outstanding athletic achievement over the course of their time spent at Utica College.

Coffman, a captain for the Pioneer hockey team, was a two-time ECAC West All-Conference First Team selection and was named an East Region All-American this past season.

He was named to the 2008-09 ECAC West All-Rookie Team and was the League’s Rookie of the Year that same season.

He holds the school record in career points (140), career assists (91), and the single season record for goals scored (19).

He was also a two-time ECAC West scoring leader.

Tim Coffman

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ARMY

S

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NYS HOCKEY COLLEGE REPORTEAST

enior Mike Hull was named the Henry “Hal” Beukema Award winner as the team’s most valuable player as the Army hockey team distributed its annual honors during the team banquet inside the Regiment Room at the U.S. Military Academy where the team handed out its five awards, presented letters to each player and honored the 11-member senior class.

Hull, a forward from Grosse Point Woods, Mich., led the team with 17 assists and 25 points

By Warren Kozireski while posting eight goals. He scored three times on the power play as well. The award honors Henry “Hal” Beukema who died in a plane crash in 1954 after attaining the rank of major. The team MVP award has been given out every year since 1955 and is voted on by team members.

Kyle Maggard, a forward from Columbus, Ohio, earned the prestigious Rotary International Ambassadorial Scholar Award and will pursue a Masters in Philosophy in Engineering for Sustained Development at the University of Cambridge, United Kingdom. He was presented with the Gunning Award for academic excellent. The award is named for Michael J. Gunning, a cadet letterman who died following a hit-and-run accident and is presented in recognition of the cadet who displays the qualities of academic excellence, selfless dedication to his teammates, a trusted friend and a player who demonstrates true love for the game.

Maggard was one of six players to compete in all 34 games and scored five goals and distributed three assists.

Marcel Alvarez, a two-time team captain from Cleveland, Ohio, earned the Haggerty Award, named in honor of Paul Haggerty, a 1991 West Point graduate. Haggerty worked his way up from jayvee player to the first line and then served as an Army assistant coach. He died suddenly during a workout early in his coaching career.

Alvarez played in all 34 games during his senior season and posted 11 assists and three goals.

Jon Greaney, a four-year manager, collected the Derek Hines Award. The award honors Hines, a scrappy and hard-nosed player who was a fan favorite and one of the most respected players in the locker room. It recognizes a person who has displayed an extraordinary amount of support to the Army hockey program and shares values that Derek did, cared more about giving than receiving and displayed great passion and love for the Army hockey family. Derek was killed in action in 2005.

Mac Lalor, a defenseman from Needham, Mass., was honored with the Heinmiller Award. Presented to the team’s outstanding freshman, it is named for John Heinmiller who was killed in a train accident following his freshman season. Lalor played in 31 games during his initial season, scored four goals and handed out six assists.

The team also announced the captains for the 2012-13 season. Defenseman Cheyne Rocha will serve as captain while forwards Andy Starczewski and Brian Schultz and goaltender Ryan Leets will serve as alternate captains. Rocha, Starczewski and Leets will all be seniors while Schultz will be a junior.

F

MANHATTANVILLE

ormer Valiant All-American Mickey Lang ‘11 recently completed his first professional season on the ice in style, as the Quad City Mallards forward was named the Oakley CHL First Star for the month of March, as announced by the Mallards and the Central Hockey League on Tuesday.

Lang led the CHL in scoring during the final month of the regular season, scoring nine goals and adding 13 assists for a league-best 22 points. He had at least one point in 11 of the team’s 12 games during March and also posted eight multi-point contests during that span, while finishing the season with a flourish: he scored once in the final four games of the year and had eight points (four goals, four assists) during a five-game points streak to conclude the season.

NY Hockey OnLine

R.P.I.

T

he Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) men’s ice hockey team held its’ seasonending banquet, where the team’s 2011-12 award winners were announced. Seven awards were presented by head coach Seth Appert and his staff. They were: • Most Valuable Player: Mike Bergin • Best Defensive Player: Mike Bergin • Top Rookie: Curtis Leonard • Most Inspirational: Justin Smith • Community Service: Jeremy Coupal • Scholar-Athlete: Nick Bailen • Most Improved: Matt Tinordi

A senior defenseman and captain, Bergin concludes his career with 40 points in the cherry and white on eight goals and 32 assists. He contributed to the program’s success from the moment he entered the Houston field house, finishing with 107 games played, including the school’s first NCAA Tournament appearance in 16 years.

In his four-year career with RPI, Smith netted a goal and three assists for four points, while appearing in 42 games. He was a multiple ECAC All-Academic and Dean’s List selection.

Coupal has aided the coaching and hockey operations staff on road trips for the last two season. He and his teammates work with the Troy Amateur Youth Hockey Association (TAYHA) on a regular basis, and have also volunteered for a number of other organizations including the Children’s Hospital at the Albany Medical Center for a radioathon last spring. Making his collegiate debut on Senior Night, he stopped the only shot he faced in the third period.

After dressing for 23 games and picking up just two points in 2010-11, Tinordi stepped up this season as a sophomore, scoring a number of big goals down the stretch for the Engineers. Finishing the campaign with six goals and seven assists for 13 points, he played in 32 of the clubs 39 contests, including 18 of 22 league games. Third on the team with three power-play tallies, nine of his 13 points came during ECAC Hockey play.

Leonard stepped in as a freshman and matching up against the best forwards ECAC Hockey has to offer is never an easy task, but this firstyear defenseman held his own throughout a grueling 2011-12 season, playing in all 39 games for the Engineers. Picking up a goal and five assists for six points, he took just 14 minor penalties for 28 minutes.

Bailen (Fredonia, NY) was second on the

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team in scoring with 7 goals and 15 assists for 22 points, he led the club with six power-play tallies and four game-winners, while suiting up for all 39 contests. In the classroom, he carried a 3.91 GPA. A multiple ECAC Hockey All-Academic and Multiple Dean’s List selection, this junior is a member of the Beta Gamma Sigma International Honor society. He also volunteers with the Troy Amateur Youth Hockey Association or TAYHA, the United Way and RPI Episcopal Church.

UNION

J

unior forward Jeremy Welsh was named most valuable player of the Union College men’s ice hockey team at the annual year-end banquet hosted by the Garnet Blades at the Mohawk Golf Club. The 2011-12 team, which earned the school’s second consecutive ECAC Hockey regular season title, first ever ECAC Hockey Tournament title, and first Frozen Four berth in the Division I era, was honored for having the most successful season in program history.

Welsh, who signed an NHL contract with the Carolina Hurricanes, recorded 27 goals, 17 assists (44 points) in 40 games for the Dutchmen this season, shattering the school single-season goals record previously held by Mario Valery-Trabucco ‘10. He ranked first on the team and fourth in the NCAA in goals scored. He had nine points (five goals, four assists) in eight postseason games for the Dutchmen, including a five-game goal-scoring streak. For his efforts, Welsh was named ECAC Hockey Player of the Month for March, Most Outstanding Player of the ECAC Championship and Most Outstanding Player of the NCAA East Regional in Bridgeport, CT. Welsh will graduate Union this summer before heading to training camp with the Hurricanes.

Sophomore forward Matt Hatch (Massena) was voted by the fans as the das Design 7th PLAYER Award winner. The honor is cosponsored by das Design and Lee’s Trophies and is presented to the Union hockey student-athlete recognized by the fans as an individual who, with extra effort and skill, consistently created excitement through aggressive play, resulting in a team advantage.

The Coaches’ Award went to senior defenseman Nolan Julseth-White. The team captain, Julseth-White, a four-time ECAC Hockey AllAcademic team member led a senior class that recorded the most wins of any Union hockey class in program history (92 wins).

Fellow senior Taylor Reid was also honored with the Charles N. Morrison Award. The honor

NY Hockey OnLine is an endowed scholarship that was created from the gifts of friends in the memory of friends in the memory of Charles N. Morrison, Union’s head hockey coach from 1978 to 1988. It is given annually to a student who participates in extracurricular activities while demonstrating academic interest and achievement.

Sophomore goaltender Troy Grosenick earned the Thomas VanArden Dukehart Award, which originated during the 1977-78 season to preserve the memory of Thomas VanArden Dukehart and is presented annually to the Union hockey studentathlete with the highest grade-point average. Grosenick, Union’s finalist for ECAC Hockey Student-Athlete of the Year, is also a volunteer tutor and notetaker for disabled students at Union.

Grosenick also earned the team’s Most Improved Player Award. Grosenick, who entered the season with just one career start, finished a stellar campaign in net for the Dutchmen. At 226-3 overall, Grosenick, who has started 33 of 41 games, finished the season second in the nation in goals-against average (1.65), save percentage (.936), and winning percentage (.758). His five shutouts on the season matched Kris Mayotte ‘06 for the singleseason school record. Grosenick shattered school single-season goals-against average and save percentage records established

by Keith Kinkaid (2010-11) and Trevor Koenig (1996-1997). He earned the Ken Dryden Award as ECAC Hockey Goaltender of the Year.

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The Rookie of the Year Award went to freshman defenseman Shayne Gostisbehere, an ECAC Hockey All-Rookie Team selection. Gostisbehere finished the season with five goals and 17 assists in 41 games and matched a school record in ECAC Hockey play with four assists in a 4-4 tie against Cornell on Feb. 4.

Junior defenseman Shawn Stuart earned the Scott Richardson Unsung Hero Award. One of Union’s top defenseman, Stuart, who played in all 41 contests, was a major part of a defensive unit that led the nation by allowing just 1.83 goals per game.

NY Hockey OnLine

2011-12 CDHSHL AWARDS Player of the Year Alex Luse (F) Saratoga Leading

Goal Scorer Alex Luse (F) - Saratoga

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All-CDHSHL Team Joe Chiara (F) - Shaker/Colonie Dean McMahon (F) - CBA Sam Vincent (F) - Bethlehem Nicholas Parente (D) - Bethlehem Brendon Wormley (D) - Saratoga Austin Clark (G) - BHBL/BS

CDHSHL 2nd Team

CDHSHL 1st Team

CDHSHL Honorable Mention

Chase Godfrey (F) - BHBL/BS Nick McKinney (F) - Glens Falls Kevin Miles (F) - Shenendehowa John Bassett (D) - CBA Joe Ferraro (D) - Shenendehowa Peter Mirazik (G) - Niskayuna/Schenectady

John Gosstola (F) - Bethlehem Eric Egan (F) - Shaker/Colonie Nick Winters (F) - Saratoga Alex Wright (D) - Glens Falls Mike Laymen (D) - Saratoga Ryan Bourgeois (G) - Saratoga Anthony DeMarte (F) - LaSalle Andrew Mundweiler (F) - Guilderland/Mohonasen Evan VanEpps (F) - CBA John Countryman (F) - Queensbury James Rizzo (F) - Glens Falls John Marra (D) - Niskayuna/Schenectady Andrew Crist (D) - Queensbury Rob Orban (G) - Queensbury

Clarkson Women’s Hockey Program to Hold Girls Development Camp July 2-6, Ages 8-17 The Clarkson University Women’s Hockey program will be holding a Girls Development Camp at Cheel Arena this summer on July 2-6. The camp, which will run from 8:00 a.m. through 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, is offered to campers from 8-17 years of age.

Athletes will learn from experienced and energetic coaches the skills necessary to improve their performance both on and off the ice. Focus will be on fundamentals of the game, on-ice skills, and proper conditioning and nutrition. The staff will also discuss the college recruiting process.

Cost of the camp is $600 for Resident Plan (includes room and all meals) and $400 for Commuter Plan (includes lunch only). There is a 10% discount if registered by May 15.

Clarkson employee prices - $575 for Resident Plan, $375 for Commuter Plan. Prices are in U.S. funds.

For more information, please contact Robin Howard at howardk@clarkson.edu.

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NYS HOCKEY COLLEGE REPORTNORTH

By Warren Kozireski

CLARKSON St. Louis Blues Executive Vice President and General Manager Doug Armstrong announced Friday the club has signed goaltender Paul Karpowich to a two-year, two-way contract. Karpowich, 21, was originally drafted by the Blues in the seventh round, 185th overall, of the 2008 NHL Entry Draft.

This past season, the 6-2, 195-pound goaltender from Thunder Bay, ONT appeared in 37 games posting a 16-15-6 record including a 2.46 goals against average and a .921 save percentage.

Overall, during his collegiate career Karpowich appeared in 130 games accumulating a 46-66-16 record to go along with 2.93 goals against average and a .910 save percentage.

Nine awards were announced at the team banquet.

Karpowich headlined the list of recipients as he was med the Bill Harrison Clarkson Most Valuable Player in honor of the successful Clarkson coach of the late 1940s and 1950s.

Clarkson’s captain, Jake Morley was honored with the Mike Morrison Coaches’ Award for teamwork, hustle and dedication. The award was named in honor of the former Clarkson captain who died in a work accident on July 27, 1988.

The 6-2, 216-pound forward from Ogdensburg, New York battled through nagging injuries to play in 34 games and scored seven goals and added nine assists.

Morley was also presented with the inaugural Clarkson Ironman Award. The award represents the player, who in spite of being bruised, broken, spliced or otherwise hurt, most demonstrated the will and determination to overcome injuries and contribute to the team.

Junior defenseman Andrew Himelson was presented with the Richmond Unsung Award.

Named in honor of loyal Clarkson followers Ernie and Connie Richmond, the Richmond award is presented to a Golden Knight who has shown improvement in his playing ability and displayed team leadership.

A native of Monroe, New York, Himelson developed

into one of the Knights’ most reliable defenseman as the season progressed. He skated in 38 games and scored two goals, recorded six assists and was a team leader in plus/ minus at +6.

Clarkson’s leading scorer, Nick Tremblay was honored with the Paul J. Pilon Award, as the hockey program’s top scholar-athlete. The award was established in the memory of the former Clarkson hockey player who died in a tragic car wreck in 1937.

Tremblay combined the duties of a Clarkson assistant captain with the rigorous demands of a graduate student while enrolled in Clarkson’s MBA program. A native of Candiac, Quebec, he posted a team-high 36 points on 17 goals and 19 assists through 37 games.

He tallied a team-high six power-play goals and was especially strong down the stretch to help keep the Knights in contention for a top-four finish in the ECAC, tallying 21 points (8-13) in the 2012 portion of the schedule.

Louke Oakley was honored with the Fran Neragin Award. Named in honor of the loyal Clarkson hockey booster who passed away in 1984, the Neragin award is presented to a player who displays unselfish play and sportsmanship both on and off the ice.

A native of Whitby, Ontario, Oakley was the Green and Gold’s second-leading scorer with 35 points on 16 goals and 19 assists through 37 games. He tallied four power-play goals and connected for three game-winners. Oakley was strong down the stretch with 17 points (8-9) points in final 12 games of regular season to help keep Clarkson in contention for a top-four ECAC Hockey finish. He was named four times to the ECAC Hockey weekly Honor Roll.

Freshman defenseman Sam Labrecque was selected as the Knights’ Rookie of the Year. The Granby, Quebec native was Clarkson’s leading rookie scorer overall and top offensive producer for the Green and Gold from the blueline. His 23 points, on eight goals and 15 assists, were the most by a Clarkson defenseman since current NHL player Randy Jones tallied 33 (13-20) in 2002-03. Labrecque was a key component on Clarkson’s power play with 16 points (5-11) on the

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man-advantage.

Corey Tamblyn was the recipient of two awards. The Bobcaygeon, Ontario native was named Clarkson’s Best Defensive Player and is the inaugural winner of the North Country Award, presented to the Golden Knight who distinguished himself during the season series against archrival St. Lawrence.

Tamblyn was a solid two-way center, recording 18 points on seven goals and 11 assists and was one of Clarkson’s leading players on faceoffs. This winter against the Saints, he helped the Green and Gold sweep the ECAC Hockey series from St. Lawrence for the second straight year. He tallied a goal and an assist in the 5-3 win in Canton (12/6), scored against the Saints in the non-league contest in Lake Placid (12/10), and played a leading role in shutting down St. Lawrence’s top line in the 4-3 victory at Cheel Arena (1/21).

Next year’s team leader was also announced at the banquet. Ben Sexton was named the Knights’ captain for the 2012-13 campaign. A native of Kanata, Ontario, Sexton served as an assistant captain this past season in his sophomore campaign. He overcame an early season injury and emerged as a top offensive force down the stretch, averaging over a point per game with eight goals and 21 assists through 27 contests as Clarkson’s third-leading scorer. He led the Knights’ power play with a team-high 18 points on the man-advantage, including five goals.

POTSDAM Former SUNY Potsdam men’s ice hockey captain Sy Nutkevitch recorded an assist in his professional debut for the Texas Brahmas of the Central Hockey League.

Nutkevitch signed the contract with Texas in late March.

In four seasons with the Bears, Nutkevitch scored 26 goals and recorded 77 assists for 103 points. This season, the forward led Potsdam and the SUNYAC in scoring and

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tied for eighth in the nation with 40 points (9 goals- 31 assists). He also led the conference in assists and finished second in the country in assists-per-game (1.19). For several weeks during the regular season, Potsdam’s captain sat atop the nation’s scoring list. Nutkevitch’s performance earned him a spot on the All-SUNYAC second team.

In 2011-12, Nutkevitch helped Potsdam to an 8-162 overall mark and a 6-10 record in the SUNYAC. The Bears earned their second playoff berth in three seasons.

ST. LAWRENCE Former Saints captain Greg Carvel has officially been named the new head coach after Joe Marsh officially stepped down. Carvel and Mike Hurlbutt team-coached the squad last season after Marsh was forced from behind the bench due to illness.

Carvel’s professional resume includes assistant coaching positions with the Ottawa Senators and the Anaheim Ducks of the National Hockey League.

“I came in with ideas on how I thought a team should be coached. I want to combine the structure and systems I have learned through coaching in the NHL with the atmosphere and emotion that Joe’s teams always played with,” Carvel explained.

“It took some time to get things in place...perhaps a little longer than we expected...but this year was a good one for creating a foundation. Going forward the guys realize that there needs to be more commitment to the program. They gave a lot and I was really impressed with the attitude and work ethic, but I think they realize they have more to give. It is our job as coaches to continually challenge them, while still making it an enjoyable experience. If we can do that...follow a blueprint for success and get a little better each day...it will lead to more success.”

We accept all amateur hockey stories, as well as photographs.

Send to randy@nyhockeyonline.com or janet@nyhockeyonline.com

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E

rik Cole is a pioneer of sorts.

Although he won’t admit it, the star forward for the Montreal Canadiens was one of the first hockey players to come out of the Oswego, NY. area.

“I came out a small town in Upstate New York and there really wasn’t anybody in front of us to look up to,” said Cole, who has played 10 seasons in the National Hockey League (2001-2012) with the Canadiens, Carolina Hurricanes and Edmonton Oilers. “I began skating when I was about three and eventually found our way to professional hockey.

“I eventually made it through and all the way to the NHL. I feel as though I’m a real strong product of my environment.

“I had great coaches during my minor hockey and high school hockey career in Oswego. I played in the Oswego Minor Hockey Association.

“I also played a split year in Junior B hockey in Ontario. Then it was on to the USHL and finally on to Clarkson University.”

Cole was selected by the Hurricanes as the 71st overall pick in the 1998 NHL Entry Draft. He scored his first NHL goal on Oct. 24, 2001 in a Carolina victory over the Minnesota Wild.

The 6-2, 205-pound forward remembered his days playing youth hockey in Oswego.

“We had to travel quite a bit playing youth hockey,” said Cole, who shoots lefthanded. “There were some

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local teams in the Fulton and Syracuse area.

“But we also had to travel to the

Home Grown:

was because any kid that wanted to play got to play.

“But today it seems to be different. It continues to become harder and harder for parents to be able to afford for their kids to play hockey.

“It’s an expensive sport with the equipment and travel and all. That’s why we came up with an idea to give something back to the Oswego community.”

Thus came the formation of the Erik Cole Dream Big Foundation.

It was during the Hurricanes drive to their Stanley Cup Championship of 2006 that Cole agreed to support a local community project back in his hometown of Oswego to help restore the Oswego Public Library.

Along with his wife, Emily, Cole pledged $1000 for every point he scored during the 200506 hockey season.

He had a record career-high year contributing 61 points to the championship season. Cole’s pledge of $1000, though, was conditioned upon the community matching his pledge.

The Oswego community responded and the Public Library received approximately $120,000 thanks to Cole’s efforts. That summer, the library held a golf event as an additional fundraiser. Cole lent his name and support to the event and the Erik Cole Score for Oswego golf event was held at the Oswego Country Club.

(Continued on Page 16)

Erik Cole

by Randy Schultz Randy@nyhockeyonline.com

Utica/Rome area and it made for a lot of long, snowy road trips. There were a lot of long weekends spent in hotel rooms and hockey rinks.

“I thought it was a great experience for all of us. You make a lot of friends along the way.

“The whole experience was probably the greatest gift my parents could have given me.”

Cole also understands the sacrifices his parents, as well as other parents, made along the way for him and his friends.

“I grew up in a real fortunate situation,” remembered the 33 year-old Cole. “It didn’t matter what the cost

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CLIFTON PARK NATIVE HELPS BC TO NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP

By Warren Kozireski

J

unior defenseman Patch Alber’s name doesn’t show up on the scoresheet very often, but he was a major cog on the blueline as Boston College defeated Ferris State 4-1 to win their fifth overall and third title in five years.

“Each one is different and every one is special; they’re seasons that will live on forever so it’s hard to pick one,” said Alber in the postgame locker room. “I think the adversity we faced this year makes this one a little bit sweeter along with a 19 game winning streak.”

Alber played for two seasons and graduated from Northwood Prep in Lake Placid after leaving the Albany region guiding them to the best record in school history (40-8-0) in 2005-06 earning New York State High School Athletic Association secondteam all-star honors.

Two more seasons with the Boston Junior Bruins of the Eastern Junior League followed where he led all defensemen in scoring his final season there with

28 points and a +20 rating.

Then Boston College came calling.

“It was just an opportunity that I couldn’t turn down; it was unbelievable. They seem to like the short guys and I fit right in with that.”

As a freshman, Alber got into the line-up as a regular late playing in 17 games total, but all eight postseason contests with three points including his memorable first collegiate goal against Miami in the Frozen Four semi-final at Detroit.

Last season, he played in 34 games with a pair of goals and seven assists while ranking third among BC defenseman with a +19 rating.

This season he netted one goal with a career high 13 assists to rank third among the d-corps.

“It was an awesome year all around. We look at pressure as something that we can only put on ourselves and whatever is outside the room doesn’t really matter. I was able to play more of a role with this year’s team, but it’s always awesome to win.”

NY Hockey OnLine Publication Specifications Send your hockey stoires to us in word as an email attachment.

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Please do not just lift the logos from your website, they should be at least 2” x 2” for us to use and be clear.

Send all material to Randy@nyhockeyonline.com or Janet@nyhockeyonline.com Deadline for submission is one week prior to the First of each month.

If you have questions, please contact us.

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S

ince the 2006-07 season the ladies of Chazy Youth had six excellent chances to win a state title at either the U14 level of in the Upstate New York Girls High School League. They fell short each time.

The latest heartbreak was a tough 2-1 loss to Potsdam in the high school championship on home ice on Feb. 11.

Despite the pain and frustration, the girls plowed on in their U19 season.

To their delight, the Flyers finally broke the ice by winning the state championship for U19s in Potsdam with a 2 to 1 win over the Ithaca Stars.

The win propelled the Flyers into the USA Hockey Tier II National Championships in Dallas, Texas March 28 to April 1.

“It was nice to finally win one and get that monkey off our backs,” Head Coach Ray Guay said.

“The girls really deserved it.”

In Texas, the girls from the tiny club in Northern New York more than held their own.

They lost to eventual finalish Colorado Elite Prep in a shootout after a 2 to 2 tie in the opening game. Amanda Peterson and Jess Huber tallied goals for the Flyers with Sara LoTemplio getting two assists.

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Christina Emery had a strong game in net for Chazy.

In their next match, the Flyers dominated Team Alaska, a semi-finalist in a 4 to 1 win. Peterson, who was playing ill, Huber, LoTemplio and Emily Raville all had goals.

In the final game of the round-robin portion of the tournament, Chazy lost to the Steel City Selects of Pittsburgh despite holding a commanding 38-19 advantage in shots on goal.

The Flyers made it into the playoff round and faced defending champion and host Alliance Bulldogs.

Chazy fought hard and had several chances to score early on, but were denied.

The Bulldogs eventually pulled away for a 5 to 1 win, but with the shots on goal at 27 to 23 for Alliance, the game was much closer than the score indicated.

The Flyers wound up finishing the season as the 5th ranked team in the nation according to HockeyRankings. com.

”We really did have a memorable season, and we might not be a big money club, but our girls all have tremendous heart and we are proud of every single one of them,” Guay said.

Chazy Girls Hockey Excels in 2011-12

Cole Continued from Page 14...

The event was an immediate success, raising over $25,000 for an event that was put together in less than two months The following year Cole decided to hold his own “Score for Oswego” golf event and identified the Oswego Minor Hockey Association as the beneficiary of this event.

The golf tourney was held with nearly $30,000 for the OMHA. It was during this time that Cole decided to create a foundation that helped other children realize their dreams.

A year later, during the summer of 2008, the Erik Cole Dream Big Foundation was created and held its first annual golf event.

“We just want to give kids from our area the opportunity not just to play hockey, but to look at other avenues in which to spend the money,” stated Cole, who played three seasons for Clarkson University. “It’s an easy way for me to go back to Oswego every summer and say ‘thank you’ for the way I was brought up and the success I’ve had.”

To date, the Foundation has raised over $150,000 for the local community. Cole’s goal is to maintain the foundation long after his NHL playing days are over.

This year’s event will be held from Friday, Aug. 10 through Monday, August 13 and includes a 3-on-3 crossice hockey tournament, a special sled hockey tourney as well as the annual Golf Classic.

For information on the event contact Tim Graber, tournament director, at 315-591-2906 or email at GraberT@ aol.com.

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N

ew York State will be wellrepresented at the 2012 National Development Camp to be held in Minnesota in July.

Named to the camp were: Girls Select 14: Defense: Brittani Mingoia, Ronkonkoma; Claire Werynski, Williamsville; Jordan Emerson, Potsdam Forward: Abby Cleary, Buffalo; Michele Robillard, Orchard Park; Victoria Allard, Springville; Lila Toczek, North Tonawanda.

Goalie: Bailey Lewczyk, Buffalo.

Abby Cleary played U14 last year and will again in 2012-13. She has been with the Bisons since she was 5 years old. She also plays with the Selects Hockey. Abby is a center and was the team’s leading scorer for the past five years. She will attend Nichols School as a freshman in Fall 2013. Abby is the daughter of John, Maureen and has a brother Jack and sister, Ellie. Ellie will also play on the U14 team this coming season.

Victoria Allard plays for the Hamburg Hawks.

Caroline Ross came to the Bisons this past season from the Roch-

Selected from the Buffalo Bisons for National Camp: Abby Cleary, Olivia Zafuto and Caroline Ross. (Photo provided by Buffalo Bisons Hockey)

New York Girls Selected for National Development Camp

Girls Select 15: Defense: Oliva Zafuto, Niagara Falls; Kylie McCloskey, Manorville; Caroline Ross, Brockport Forward: Elizabeth Gerace, Jamestown; Catherine Crawley, Washingtonville; Kalie Grant, Potsdam; Cailey Hutchison, Hicksville.

Goalie: Katharyn Snyder, Lake Clear Oliva Zafuto played with the Bisons for the past two years on the U14 team and will advance to the U16 team in Fall 2012. Prior to the Bisons she was a member of the

Niagara Junior Purple Eagles and played varsity at Nichols School, Buffalo, this past season, where she is a sophmore. Oliva is a offensive minded defenseman. Oliva was selected for the National Camp in her first year of eligibility last year. She is the daughter of Steve and Marie and has a brother, Steven.

ester Edge. She is currently in the 14U but will go to 16U next season. Caroline will be attending the NAHA in the fall. She attends Aquinas High School in Rochester and is the daughter of Ray and Terri. Caroline is described as a very intelligent, stay-at-home defenseman. This is her second trip to the National Camp.

Girls Select 16: Defense: Toni Ann Miano, Bronx; Hannah Sorkin, Melville; Caroline Buckholtz, Greenlawn; Brandy Streeter, Morrisville; Taylar Cianfarano, Oswego; Madison Sansone, East Amherst; Annika Zalewski, New Hartford Goalie: Julianna Iafallo, Eden Girls Select 17: Defense: Jennifer Ryan, Victor Forward: Madeline Elia, Lewiston, Margret Troiano Ogdensburg.

We wish these young and talented players all the best and encourage them to have a great time!

New Yorkers Playing at the 2012 IIHF Men’s World Championship: Jimmy Howard, Detroit Red Wings/Syracuse Kle Palmieri, Anaheim Ducks/ Smithtown

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Cornell

F

our members of the Cornell women’s hockey team claimed a world championship in April when Canada defeated the United States 4-3 in overtime at the 2012 IIHF World Women’s Championships.

Caroline Ouellette scored the game-winning goal 1:50 into overtime, sending the Canadians to their first world championship since 2007.

On the roster for Canada were Cornell players Rebecca Johnston, Laura Fortino, Brianne Jenner and Lauriane Rougeau. All four played in the championship game, but none of them managed to get on the scoresheet. Fortino earned a +1 rating, and Johnston had five shots on goal.

Also part of the winning effort was Cornell head coach Doug Derraugh, who was an assistant coach for Canada.

New York State Women’s Collegiate Ice Hockey Report

by Janet Schultz JDSchultz3663@gmail.com

Buffalo State College

S

eniors Shayna McKie (Manlius, NY/ Fayetteville-Manlius), Leah Knott (Sinking Spring, PA/Wilson), Jessica Garland (Cheektowaga, NY/Maryvale) and Brianna Murphy (Depew, NY/ Lancaster) are among the nine Buffalo State women’s hockey players recognized by the Eastern College Athletic Conference (ECAC) as West All-Academic Team

honorees.

Also honored for their academic achievement were Melissa Ash (Binghamton, NY/ Chenanga Valley), Jen Seguin (Hamilton, ON/St. Jean de Brebeuf), Mel White (Snohomish, WA/Archbishop Murphy), Rio Flynn (Happy Valley, OR/Appleby College) and Lauren Mallo (Maple Ridge, BC/Thomas Haney).

To be named to the All-Academic team, the student-athlete must have completed at least one academic year, have a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.00 on a 4.00 scale, and have competed in at least on-half of her team’s contests during the current season (a goaltender must have played at least 33 percent of her team’s minutes).

McKie, a journalism major, boasts a 3.83 cumulative GPA. Ash, a sophomore art education major, has maintained a 3.69 cumulative average. Garland, an elementary education major, has a 3.63 overall GPA. Murphy, maintains a 3.48 overall GPA as a health and wellness major.

As a team, Buffalo State carried a 3.17 cumulative GPA through the Fall 2011 semester and had six players earn Dean’s List distinction.

NY Women’s College Hockey continued on next page

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Cortland College

Eight SUNY Cortland players have been selected to the 2011-12 ECAC West Women’s All-Academic ice hockey team.

The Cortland honorees are: seniors Katie Double (Farmington/ Victor), Amanda Maddalena (Howell, NJ/Wyoming Seminary) and Jen Whelan (Langhorne, PA/Pennsbury); juniors Cara Latchum (Warrington, PA/Wyoming Seminary), Erika Osborne (Sharon Springs/The Harvey School), Julia Rapp (Vienna, VA/ Northwood School) and Chelsey Wright (Medford/Patchogue-Medford); and sophomore Jenn Fitzgerald (Phoenix, AZ/Gilmour Academy).

RIT

Mayor Thomas S. Richards was joined by Rochester Institute of Technology Senior Vice President MaryBeth Cooper for a key presentation to the Rochester Institute of Technology Women’s Hockey teams.

“It is not every day that one of our local teams makes history, so we must celebrate and commend those who admirably represent our community,” said Mayor Richards. “We are incredibly proud of these athletes for their commitment to their sports and their teamwork and tenacity during the game.”

The Tigers claimed their first NCAA Division III Women’s Ice Hockey National Championship.

The hockey team (28-1-1) defeated the National defending Champion Norwich University (27-3-1) at Ritter Arena. The Tigers also set a Division III, single-season record with 28 wins.

A program record nine members of the 2012 NCAA National Champion RIT women’s hockey team were named to the 2012 ECAC West All-Academic Team. This marks the 11th year that the conference has

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After finishing the 2010-11 season with one goal in 23 games played, Greco emerged as one of the team’s primary defensemen in 201112. In 30 games, she scored one goal and added four assists, including a career-best three helpers against No. 6 Mercyhurst in the CHA Semifinals.

A member of both SU’s power play and penalty killing units, Greco was also pressed into action as a forward at times during the year.

Former Syracuse ice hockey player Stefanie Marty recently competed at the 2012 IIHF Ice Hockey Women’s World Championship in Burlington, Vt. Marty, playing for her native Team Switzerland, helped the Swiss to a bronze medal during the tournament.

Marty finished the tournament second on the team in scoring with two goals, four assists and a team-high +7 rating. Her best game Sophomore cencame against ter Margot Scharfe Russia in the (Toronto) continued quarterfinals, to add to her postwhere Marty season trophy case Margot Scharfe, Syracuse’s MVP. (Photo by scored twice Syracuse University) as the Syracuse ice en route to a hockey team named 5-2 Switzerher the squad’s Most Valuable Player land victory. at the Orange’s annual team banquet. “I was in Burlington last Tuesday In addition, junior winger and watched Stef and her Swiss beat Holly Carrie-Mattimoe (Alberta) Sweden in a great game 3-2,” Syrawas named the Offensive Player cuse head coach Paul Flanagan said. of the Year, senior Taylor Metcalfe “Stef played a ton and did a great (Oakville, Ont.) the Defensive Play- job. It was great to see her played er of the Year, Nicole Ferrara (Masso well, especially since she was sachusetts) the Rookie of the Year coming off a year where she battled a and junior assistant captain Jacquie couple of injuries that kept her out of Greco (Buffalo/Nichols School) was the lineup for much of the season.” named the Most Improved Player.

Team Switzerland finished the named an all-academic team; a total of 84 student-athletes representing each of the 10 ECAC West teams earned this honor based on outstanding performance in the classroom.

Senior Ali Hills (Honeoye Falls, NY) was named to the team for the third straight season, while classmate Jamie Parhar (Calgary, Alberta) garnered her second honor. Juniors Kim Schlattman (Stratford, Ontario) and Tenecia Hiller (Brampton, Ontario) were each named for the second straight year, while juniors Ariane Yokoyama (Van Nuys, CA) and Carley King (Tinley Park, IL), along with sophomores Melissa Bromley (Aurora, Ontario), Laura Chamberlain (Norco, CA), and Kourtney Kunichika (Fullerton, CA) also earned the honor.

Hills is a threetime All-ECAC West All-Academic team selection, while Hiller, Parhar, and Schlattman earned the honor for the second time.

Syracuse

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tournament 4-2, and defeated Team Finland in the Bronze Medal Game, 6-2. Marty had an assist in the game and won 14-of-26 faceoffs.

Oswego

Eight members of the Oswego State women’s ice hockey team were named to the 2011-12 Eastern Collegiate Athletic Conference Women’s West All-Academic Team.

Players Named To All-Academic Team Kelly Collins, Sr. (Fairport, N.Y.) Catherine Cote, Jr. (Val D’Or, Quebec) Megan Howe, So. (Stratford, Ontario) Chelsea Hunt, So. (Brockport, N.Y.) Leslie Jarvis, So. (Newmarket, Ontario) Mackenzie Lee, Sr. (Caledonia, N.Y.) Melissa Seamont, So. (North Bay, Ontario) Jocelyn St. Clair, So. (Cambridge, Ontario)

Potsdam

Five members of the SUNY Potsdam women’s hockey team have been named to the ECAC Women’s West All-Academic team for the 2011-2012 season. Senior Caitlin Manahan (Vermont), juniors Nadine Cunningham (New Hampshire) and Katie Komsa (Ontario), and sophomores Brittany Lucky (Ontario) and Dawna Salvarinas (Ontario) each represent the Bears on the team. Manahan, Cunningham and Komsa have earned the honor two years in a row.

2011-12 was a record-breaking season for the Bears (12-10-3, 7-8-3 ECAC West). They finished with a

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school record 12 wins and seven conference victories after surging to a 10-4-2 mark over their last 16 games.

Potsdam reached the playoffs for the second time in program history and recorded a stunning 2-1 quarterfinal upset over No. 7 Elmira.

The Bears then stayed even with RIT, the eventual national champion, for two periods before succumbing to the Tigers in the third period of the ECAC West Semifinals.

Utica College

Four members of the Utica College women’s ice hockey team were named American Women’s Hockey Coaches Association (AWHCA) Scholar Athletes, released Wednesday.

Juniors Lindsay Norton (Eden, NY/ Buffalo Bisons) and Carmen JohnLindsay Norton of son (Falls Eden, NY & Buffalo Church, VA/ Bisons Hockey Washington Pride) and sophomores Meredith Tice (Hershey, PA/ Washington Pride) and Brittany DelleChiaie (Leominster, MA/ The Winchendon School) all received the honor.

Norton, an assistant captain, led the Pioneer defense that allowed just

2.61 goals per game this past season.

She tallied one goal and three assists, while playing in all 25 games for the Pioneers.

UC finished the season with an overall record of 10-12-3 and a 7-9-2 conference mark. The Pioneers lost just one player to graduation and look to get back to the top of the ECAC West next season.

Ten members of the Utica College women’s ice hockey team were named to the 2011-2012 ECAC West All-Academic Team, released Wednesday.

The honored Pioneers included Senior MacKenzie Roy (New Hampshire); Juniors Mary Fusco Connecticut), Carmen Johnson (Virginia), Meghan McMahon (Massachusetts), and Norton; as well as Sophomores Kristen Beckman (Maryland), Brittany DelleChiaie (Massachusetts), Caitlyn Moccaldi (Clinton, NY), Jennifer Hamel (Ithaca, NY), and Meredith Tice (Pa).

The Pioneers finished the season with an overall record of 10-12-3 and a 7-9-2 mark in the ECAC West.

Colgate

The Colgate women’s hockey team handed out its team awards with Kimberly Sass (East Amherst/ Buffalo Bisons) taking home two awards.

Sass was the big winner as she was voted as a Defensive Co-Most Valuable Player, while also taking home the Don Palmateer Award, which is given to the player whose

NY Hockey OnLine

Kimberly Sass of Eden, NY

career Leadership and on-ice performance has had the greatest impact.

Sass definitely had an impact on the team during her career as she played in 93 career games and logged over 5,400 minutes in net, which is second in program history. She posted nine shutouts and 34 wins for the second most in Colgate history. She started 32-of-33 games as a senior and had three shutouts and a .908 save percentage.

Megan Wickens (Ontario) joined Sass as a Defensive Co-MVP as she played in all 33 games on the blueline and registered seven points on a goal and six assists.

The Brad Houston Offensive MVP went to Jocelyn Simpson (Illinois) after putting up 19 points on the year for second on the team with seven goals and 12 helpers.

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Colgate also gave out its Rookie of the Year Award, which was given to Melissa Kueber (Alberta). The forward had a spectacular first season with the Raiders, tallying 19 points on a team-high 14 goals and five assists. She tied for 11th in program history for most goals in a season with 14.

The Most Improved Player Award went to Caroline Potolicchio (Maryland), who increased her playing time from her rookie season with 32 games played after 12 appearances in 2010-11.

The Sportsmanship Award was given to rookie Susan Allen (Rochester, NY/Spencerport HS), who played two games in net for the Raiders. She made a total of 25 saves on 27 shots and started her first collegiate game against nationally-ranked Harvard on Nov. 11. She had 12 stops in that game and also posted 13 saves in a game against Quinnipiac.

Next up was the Marian LeFevre Coaches Award, which is given to the player that plays the game with the most interest, best attitude and highest dedication. Heidi Peterson (Minnesota) was the recipient of the award as she played in all 33 games and finished her career with 132 games played, which puts her 16th in program history. She ended her career with a goal and five assists for six points, after posting an assist this year.

RPI

The Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) women’s ice hockey team held its season-ending banquet, where the team’s 2011-12 award winners were announced. Six honors were handed out by ninth-year head coach John Burke and his staff.

Earning the team’s highest award, the Most Valuable Player was senior center Alisa Harrison. The team’s captain, who is a native of Vienna, Va., finished third in scoring with eight goals and 14 assists for 22 points over 32 games. Her assists ranked second overall on the squad.

Harrison was also named the team’s recipient of the Bill Cahill Memorial Award presented annually to a player who displays high character, ability and dedication. She appeared in 20 ECAC Hockey games in 2011-12, scored three goals with a team-high 10 assists for 13 points in that span.

One of her tallies was the game-winner in a 4-2 victory over Yale.

This year’s Robert Conway Scholar-Athlete Award was given to sophomore winger Jordan Smelker of Anchorage, Alaska, Smelker is a biomedical engineering major with a cumulative grade point average of 3.70. A Dean’s List and ECAC Hockey All-Academic selection, Smelker led the squad in scoring for the second straight season, tallying 10 goals and 16 assists for 26 points in all 34 games.

The Engineers’ Most Improved Player was senior center Laura Guillemette, who played in all 34 games

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this season. The Ste-Marie-de-Beauce, Que., native had her strongest season in 2011-12, tallying six goals with three assists for nine points.

Freshman center Eleeza Cox was this year’s recipient of the Rookie of the Year Award. A native of St. Catharines, Ont., Cox played in all 34 games, leading all freshmen and finishing second overall in scoring with 23 points on a team-high 13 goals and 10 assists. Cox, who is a former standout at Ridley College, was also a finalist for the league’s Rookie of the Year Award.

Also recognized was graduate student and goaltender Alicia Miksic, who was the recipient of the Willie Stanton Award, which is presented annually to the player who demonstrates leadership, sportsmanship, hard work and a genuine love of the game. The Chestwick, Pa., native appeared in one game this season and was a consistent presence for the Engineers, stepping up in a number of situations when called upon.

Rensselaer concluded its season with a 9-21-4 overall record and a 6-14-2 ECAC Hockey mark

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help of a grant from the NCAA along with support by the NESCAC institutions.

The symposium is held in alternating years and was most recently conducted in January 2010.

This year’s symposium featured presentations from head coaches and senior women administrators who are passionate and experienced in the coaching field. Janet J. Judge gave keynote presentations on the subject of Title IX and Gender Equity. Judge is listed in the Best Lawyers in America in the area of sports law and speaks often on college campuses and at NCAA conference events.

Abby Runyon, Fairport, NY, was named to the 2011-12 NESCAC Winter All Sportsmanship Team.

Runyon, a Junior Forward played in 50 games and has 11 goals and 18 assists for 29 points.

Hamilton

Two Hamilton College student-athletes attended the three-day NESCAC Women’s Coaching Symposium at the Westford Regency Inn and Conference Center in Westford, Mass.

Meredith Bitterman ‘12 (Villanova, Pa./Loomis Chaffee School [Conn.]) and Erin McNally ‘12 (Scotia, N.Y./Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake HS) both attended the symposium.

Bitterman was a four-year letter winner for the women’s ice hockey team. McNally was a four-time all-region honoree, and a 2009 All-American for the field hockey team.

“Attending the NESCAC coaching symposium was extremely beneficial not only for pursuing a future in coaching, but also for life after Hamilton, “ McNally said. “The coaches at this symposium provided great insight into what to expect as a coach, as well as tips for interviewing and networking. The main point I took away from this symposium was that the moment of victory is much too short to be a coach’s only focus.”

Head field hockey coach Gillian McDonald participated in a panel discussion about new and young professionals. McDonald attended the symposium in 2004 as a senior on the Bowdoin College field hockey and ice hockey teams.

The symposium, organized by the senior woman administrators at member institutions, is designed to increase the number of female coaches in athletics with the

Katie Zimmerman ‘13 (Plymouth, Mich./ Plymouth-Salem HS) was selected to the 2012 NESCAC women’s ice hockey all-conference team.

Continued on Page 23

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D’Youville College Honors Senator Timothy M. Kennedy

he D’Youville College Spartan club hockey team honored New York State Senator Timothy M. Kennedy, D-58th District, for his strong support of the team.

Senator Kennedy, proudly wearing a D’Youville Spartan hockey jersey, and his son Connor, who had his own hockey game later that day, participated in a ceremonial puck drop before the game

with Medaille College, a league rival.

Kennedy, a graduate of D’Youville College’s program in Occupational Therapy, has been a strong supporter of the team from its inception in 2010 to today, according to Head Coach Edward Draper.

“As a graduate of D’Youville College and a resident of South Buffalo, I was thrilled to have the opportunity to drop the puck at the Spartans’ hockey game at Cazenovia Ice Rink,” said Senator Kennedy.

“Hockey is an important part of our community. So many Western New Yorkers grow up playing the game, and even more are lifelong fans. The game Sunday brought many of the D’Youville and Medaille players back to their home rink, where they learned their skills growing up. It was be a great opportunity to celebrate D’Youville hockey and the sports’ prominence in South Buffalo and throughout Western New York.”

In addition, the game represented a homecoming for Cazenovia Park Hockey alumni from both teams. A number of players and coaches on both teams began playing hockey at the noted South Buffalo rink located at the corner of Abbott Road and Cazenovia Street across from Mercy Hospital.

Cazenovia Park Hockey alumni recognized from the D’Youville team were: Clark Betyn, Brian Cieslik, Matthew Diflavio, Justin LaRusch and Duff Maloney. Athletic Director Brian Cavanaugh, Draper and assistant coach Bill Unger were also be recognized.

Medaille was represented by former Caz Park players Matthew Cieslik (brother of Brian who plays for D’Youville) and Joshua Smith.

The game ended as a D’Youville victory with a final score of 9-5. Leading the way for D’Youville were Cazenovia Park Hockey alumni Justin LaRusch, who scored twice, and Clark Betyn, who added another goal. Also scoring goals for D’Youville were Jeff Spors (2), Kyle Meringer (2), Jeff Monnin and Nate Wiles. Goal scorers for Medaille were Kyle Lamich, Simon Fedak, Brian Levick, Mike Givrradavid and Tyler Mclaughan.

Continued from Page 22

Clarkson

The accomplishments of the 2011-12 Clarkson University Women’s Hockey team were recognized as the Golden Knights held their annual Awards Banquet. Highlighting the ceremony was the naming of sophomore Erica Howe (Ottawa, ONT) as Clarkson’s Most Valuable Player.

Clarkson also paid tribute to the Class of 2012. Juana Baribeau (Amos, QUE), Danielle Boudreau (Whitby, ONT), Kali Gillanders (Kyle, SASK), Gabrielle Kosziwka (Limehouse, ONT) and Katelyn Ptolemy (Dinsmore, SASK) helped Clarkson compile 75 victories from 2008-2012, including two 20+win campaigns (2009-10,

2011-12), four showings in the ECAC Hockey playoffs, including a tournament championship game appearance in 2010, and the program’s first ever appearance in the NCAA Tournament in 2010.

Guided by fourth-year co-head coaches Shannon and Matt Desrosiers, assistant coach Matt Kelly and volunteer coach Carlee Eusepi, Clarkson skated to a 22-10-5 overall record in 2011-12 and claimed third place in the ECAC Hockey standings with a 15-5-2 league mark, its most wins ever in conference play.

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NYS HOCKEY COLLEGE REPORTWEST BUFFALO STATE

By Warren Kozireski

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fter completing his four-year collegiate career at Buffalo State with a triple-overtime loss at Plattsburgh in the SUNYAC semifinals on Feb. 25, senior James Durham (Marilla, NY/St. Francis) got another chance at a championship sooner than he expected, and this time was able to help his team raise the trophy.

Durham signed his first professional contract with the Columbus (Ga.) Cottonmouths of the Southern Professional Hockey League (SPHL) after exhausting his collegiate eligibility and jumped right into the playoff lineup. Durham made his pro debut in the first round of the playoffs on March 27.

Durham helped Columbus sweep its way through the postseason, winning three-consecutive best-of-three series without a loss, defeating Louisiana, Huntsville and then Pensacola in the President’s Cup Finals. He played in all six games and registered a goal and two assists.

CANISIUS

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he most decorated player in the Canisius College program’s history, Cory Conacher ‘11 added the Les Cunningham Award as the American Hockey League Most Valuable Player to his collection. Conacher, a member of the Golden Griffins from 2007 to 2011, is in his first full season of professional hockey with the Norfolk Admirals after graduating from Canisius last year.

The award was voted by AHL coaches, players and media in each of the league’s 30 member cities. Conacher is just the fourth rookie to win the award since it was first presented in 1947-48, joining Bill Hicke (1958-59), Pelle Lindbergh (1980-81) and Stephan Lebeau (1988-89).

In 72 games with Norfolk, Conacher has totaled 75 points, 35 goals and 40 assists, while leading the Admirals to the top record in the AHL. He currently ranks second in the league in points, goals and power-play tallies.

In March, Conacher became the second Griff to sign an NHL contract, inking a two-year deal with the Tampa

Bay Lightning. The Burlington, Ontario native was also named the league’s Rookie of the Year, a second-team AHL All-Star and to the AHL All-Rookie Team.

Conacher set or matched 12 career, single-season and single-game records during his career at Canisius.

The 2009-10 Atlantic Hockey Player of the Year owns the program’s standards of 147 points, 62 goals and 12 game-winning tallies. He also set the school’s records with 53 points and 33 assists during his junior campaign, while breaking the goals mark with 23 in his senior year.

MONROE CC

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our players from the 2012 NJCAA national championship-winning MCC hockey team were honored as All-Americans by the NJCAA. Freshman Daniel Turgeon and sophomore Zach Lewis (Syracuse, NY/West Genesee) earned first team honors, while sophomore John Ambrose and freshman Matt Johnston were named to the second team.

Turgeon and Lewis were the top scorers for the Tribunes, who finished 25-4 and defeated Williston State College 4-2 in the national title game. Turgeon finished with 25 goals and 30 assists, while Lewis totaled 19 goals and 26 assists.

Ambrose and Johnston were the defensive leaders for the squad. Ambrose, a repeat honoree after receiving first team All-American laurels last year, finished with eight goals and 15 assists.

Johnston tallied four goals and 15 assists on the season.

NIAGARA

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iagara men’s hockey alum Vince Rocco (‘09) will be playing for Team Italy during the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) World Championship beginning on May 4th in Finland and Sweden.

Rocco appeared in 142 games for the Purple Eagles from 2005-09, scoring 46 goals, 74 assists and 120 points.

NY Hockey OnLine

The Woodbridge, Ont. native led Niagara in scoring during his junior and senior seasons, including a career-best 46 points during the 200708 season, leading the Purple Eagles to the 2008 College Hockey America (CHA) Tournament title and a berth in the 2008 NCAA Tournament.

The 2008-09 CHA Student-Athlete of the Year excelled on and off the ice, earning CHA All-Academic honors three times.

After a brief stint with the Reading Royals of the East Coast Hockey League (ECHL), Rocco has been playing professional hockey in Italy.

Rocco has been playing with Alleghe HC in the Serie A in Italy, having scored 45 goals, 91 assists and 136 points in three seasons.

Rocco and Team Italy were placed in the Stockholm Group for the event, having to play the Czech Republic, Denmark, Germany, Latvia, Norway, Russia and Sweden once.

The top four teams from each group will advance to the quarterfinals.

R.I.T.

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enior defenseman Chris Haltigin garnered three individual honors, while classmate Taylor McReynolds earned a pair of individual honors, as the RIT men’s hockey team announced its 2011-12 team award winners.

McReynolds won the Louis Spiotti Coaches Award, as a player who embodies RIT hockey, and the Greg Moss Hard Hat Award, given to a player who performs at a high level

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and does it with very little fanfare.

It is McReynolds’ second Hard Hat, after winning the award in 2010.

McReynolds finished the 2011-12 season with 15 points (5-10-15), while playing a key role in the Tigers’ penalty kill unit that finished the season at 84.7 %, tenth best in Division I. He also scored two goals in RIT’s win over Bentley in game three of the AHA Quarterfinals, and tallied the overtime game-winner in a 2-1 victory over Niagara in the AHA Semifinals. McReynolds is RIT’s all-time leader in penalty minutes with 336.

Haltigin won the Art Thomas Teammate award as well as the Tim Cordick award, given to the top RIT defenseman. Haltigin finished third on the team with 21 points (5-1621) and earned All-Atlantic Hockey Association second team honors. He finished his career tied for the alltime lead with 147 games played and recorded 73 points on 24 goals and 49 assists.

Seniors Trevor Eckenswiller and Haltigin shared the Green B. Williams award for academic excellence.

Eckenswiller scored a goal and dished out four assists, and helped lead a defensive unit that allowed just 2.21 goals per game. It is the second year in a row that Eckenswiller has won this award. Both men are biomedical sciences majors and have excelled in the classroom, recording grade-point averages of over a 3.80.

Senior netminder Shane Madolora won the Dan Barrows Fan’s Choice award. Madolora capped off his RIT career as one of the best goalies in

the nation, with the sixth best goals against average (1.93) and the seventh best save percentage (.931) in Division I. His seven shutouts were tops in the country, while his 13 career shutouts are the most in program history. Madolora was also named to the All-Atlantic Hockey Association first team for the second straight season.

He finished his RIT career with a sparkling 36-14-12 mark to go along with a 1.98 goals against average and .932 save percentage.

The Craig Lauzon award for the top newcomer was awarded to freshman forward Matt Garbowsky (St. George, Ontario/St. John’s Collegiate). Garbowsky finished the season with 20 points (9-11-20), fourth best on the team, and earned AHA Rookie of the Week honors on February 13. Garbowsky played in all situations and finished with a plus-10 rating.

Note to College Sports Information Personnel: Please email us permission to download photos from your website, or provide us with photos during your season.

Also place us on your email list for press releaes.

Womens: Janet@nyhockeyonline.com Mens: Koz@nyhockeyonline.com

NY Hockey OnLine

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WHEATFIELD BLADES CAP OFF FAIRY TALE SEASON WITH CHAMPIONSHIP

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heatfield was well represented and has good reason to be proud of its Wheatfield Blades Squirt Mixed AA hockey team.

The team is made up of seventeen local youngsters who gave it their all.

On March 31, 2012 the Wheatfield Blades Squirt Mixed AA team beat the Hamburg Hawks team with a final score of 4-3 for the WNY AHL (Western New York American Hockey League) championship.

This caps off a record season for Wheatfield which only had two losses in regular league play as well as capturing the Silver medal in the coveted Revolution International tournament in Wilkes Barre, PA in February 2012. The tournament is one of the most prestigious youth hockey tournaments in North America featuring the top teams across the world. Over 100 teams traveled to Scranton in February for four days of exciting hockey competition. The Wheatfield Blades impressively skated their way into the finals against the Scranton Knights where they secured a Silver medal with outstanding performances.

The excitement continued at the Championship game and was a well fought battle that saw Hamburg winning 0-1 at the first period. Both Hamburg and Wheatfield cored in the second to start the third

period 2-1. Through persistence and determination Wheatfield scored 3 unanswered goals in the beginning the third period. In major league fashion, Chuckie Schmidt scored the crucial game winning goal to win the championship for the Wheatfield Blades.

The other three Wheatfield goals were scored

by Brenden Dewey, Luke Wilson and Zach Porter.

Assisting the scoring efforts were Chuckie Schmidl, Adam Franasiak and Colton Jankowski.

Coach Ken Franasiak said “We are very, very proud of our boys. We had a fabulous season in both league & non-league play. To see what these remarkable eight, nine and ten year old young men can do is a true testament to their hard work and dedication.

The entire coaching staff is extremely proud as well as the entire organization. To have a record in our division with only two losses in league play the entire season is really only half the story. These boys have amazing skills and heart. Their hard work and drive made it a real pleasure watch and we’re proud to be part of such an exciting season.”#

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he goals of junior hockey are to develop and promote to a higher level, highly skilled and motivated players who are 15-20 years of age.

The program is available to high school students and graduates who seek a greater or different challenge than that which might be available through their prep school team, high school varsity or club team or area 18 & under teams. The principal purpose of this development program is to prepare the athlete for career advancement either in a collegiate program or a professional opportunity.

Junior hockey leagues/ teams are certified, annually, by the USA Hockey Junior Council, in the following classifications: Tier I; Tier II and Tier III. There are also Junior programs that do not register with USA Hockey. For the purpose of our article, we will focus on the USA Hockey member teams.

Tier I is the highest amateur level in USA Hockey and those players have all expenses covered for them. This includes all ice fees, equipment, and room and board expenses. These teams are usually for profit and they derive most of their income from paid gate and marketing agreements.

These teams are usually in small city markets where the Junior team is the “big” game in town.

Tier II is similar with the only exception being that the player is responsible for his own room and board. All other expenses are covered by the team. Once again

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these teams generate most of their income from gate and marketing fees.

Tier III is tuition based hockey. Players pay to play hockey and are responsible for all cost and expense associated with the team.

Rates to play can range from 5k to 9k depending on where the team is located. In the larger markets in the east, ice costs drive the price up as ice costs per hour can vary between $190 and $450 per hour.

What is Junior Hockey?

by Peter Preteroti Buffalo Stars Hockey

The goals of Junior hockey include: 1. Skill Development - To provide talented young players with the opportunity to develop in an organized, structured, competitive and supervised environment.

2. Quality Coaching - To provide considerable training time, quality coaching instruction and concerned oversight.

3. Social Maturity - To provide players with a healthy, constructive environment in which to develop socially.

4. Educational Advancement - To provide assistance and opportunities for the accomplishment of the participant’s educational goals.

5. Recruiting Exposure - To provide players with exposure to collegiate and professional scouts

and recruiters.

6. Advanced Competition - To provide players with exposure to national and international competition.

7. Time Management - Players need to learn how to manage their time by balancing work, school and the high demands of his hockey team, especially while on the road.

8. Protection of Amateur Status - To protect, most importantly, the amateur status of all participants under the rules and guidelines established by the International Ice Hockey Federation, USA Hockey, Hockey Canada, the NCAA, the NAIA and the National Federation of High Schools.

New York State has the largest number of USA Hockey registered Junior teams within their boundaries. These teams include: (West): Buffalo Junior Sabres OPJHL; Buffalo Blades GOJHL; Buffalo Stars Empire; Buffalo Stars ESHL; Rochester Maksymum EJHL; Rochester Maksymum Empire (Central & North): Syracuse Empire; Adirondack Empire (East): Applecore EJHL; Applecore Empire; Applecore ESHL; Brewster Empire; Brewster ESHL; Suffolk MET; Suffolk ESHL; Long Island Royals MET; NY Saints MET; NY Bobcats AJ; Metro Moose MET.

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NYSHSHCA DIVISION 1 ALL-STATE TEAMS DIVISION 1 FIRST TEAM F Max Kaufman (Sophomore-Pittsford) F Shawn Lynch (Senior-West Genesee) F John Redgate (Senior-Suffern) F Willie Sanchez (Senior-Suffern) D Mike Layman (Senior-Saratoga Springs) D RJ Tinklepaugh (Senior-West Genesee) G Tyler Stark (Senior-Suffern)

DIVISION 2 SECOND TEAM F Taylor Davis (Sophomore-Kenmore East) F Brian Gara (Senior-Cazenovia) F TJ Kazubski (Senior-Amherst) F Cody Mariano (Senior-Oswego) D Graham Lambdin (Senior-Pelham) D Tye Terrance (Sophomore-Salmon River) G Trevor Diamond (Senior-Skaneateles)

DIVISION 1 SECOND TEAM F Ryan Chauvin (Senior-Massena) F Nick Matos (Junior-Niagara-Wheatfield) F Garrett Reilly (Senior-Rome Free Academy) F Scott Sims (Senior-Williamsville North) D Robbie Michel (Junior-West Genesee) D Brandon Schrader (Junior-Niagara-Wheatfield) G Ryan Bourgeios (Senior-Saratoga Springs)

DIVISION 2 HONORABLE MENTION F Tyler Kesler (Senior-Notre Dame of Batavia) F Nick Pagliacci (Senior-Kenmore East) D Zach Coughlin (Junior-Brockport) D Trent Yule (Senior-Oswego) G Dylan Niewienski (Senior-Churchville-Chili) G Tucker Wepner (Sophomore-Williamsville East)

DIVISION 1 HONORABLE MENTION F Eric Hamilton (Junior-Cicero North Syracuse) F Tyler Lashomb (Senior-Massena) F Alex Luse (Senior-Saratoga Springs) D Luke Bender (Senior-Massena) D Nino DiPasquale (Senior-Pittsford) G Jake Watson (Junior-Canton) NYSHSHCA DIVISION 2 ALL-STATE TEAMS DIVISION 2 FIRST TEAM F Don Battista (Senior-Kenmore East) F Colin Reilly (Senior-Pelham) F Josh Sova (Senior-Oswego) F Oakley Thomas (Senior-Salmon River) D Matt Landis (Senior-Pelham) D John Phillips (Senior-Oswego) G Matt Healey (Senior-Salmon River)

MSG VARSITY ALL HUDSON VALLEY TEAM ALL HUDSON VALLEY FIRST TEAM F Ian Palfrey (Senior-ETB) F John Redgate (Senior-Suffern) F Colin Reilly (Senior-Pelham) D Matt Landis (Senior-Pelham) D Steve Scholer (Senior-Suffern) G Tyler Stark (Senior-Suffern) ALL HUDSON VALLEY SECOND TEAM F Frazier Bostwick (Junior-John Jay Cross River) F Willie Sanchez (Senior-Suffern) F Joe Wegwerth (Sophomore-Brewster) D Graham Lambdin (Senior-Pelham) D Frankie Sherding (Senior-ETB) G Jaime Ketchabaw (Senior-Ryetown/Harrison)

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NY Hockey OnLine

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West Seneca Wings Girls Hockey 12 U Continues Its Winning Ways

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he 2011 -2012 season exceeded expectations for the girls on the West Seneca Wings 12U team.

After qualifying for the New York State the team traveled to Saranac Lake where they accomplished a task that many thought the young team was not capable of.

After going undefeated through the first three games the Wings faced a tough opponent from Brewster. Brianna Gawronski turned away shot after shot to lead the Wings to a 4 – 2 victory.

In the State final the Wings faced the #3 ranked team in the nation Clifton Park Eagles.

After two periods of play the Wings held a surprising 3 – 1 lead.

The Lady Eagles were able to climb within a goal but the Wings put the puck everywhere the Eagles were not to hold on for the State Championship.

From here the young ladies from West Seneca moved on to the National Championships in Frisco, TX. Early in the tournament the Wings posted a 2 – 1 record gaining victories against Pittsburgh and Colorado. In the quarter finals West Seneca beat Princeton 4 - 0 to advance to the semis to face the #1 ranked team in the county San Jose Jr. Sharks. Earlier in the tournament the Sharks beat West Seneca 4 – 1.

In the semi-finals the Wings jumped out to an early 1 – 0 lead but the California team responded to tie things up before the end of the first. The teams traded chances early in the second period but Jenelle Piatt and the rest of the Wings soon took over the game scoring the next six goals of the contest. Piatt scored three of those six goals leading the Wings to a shocking 7 – 2 victory. Julia Ahr, Emma O’Neil and Brianna Keppner also tallied in the upset.

In the finals the Glenview Stars put an end to West Seneca’s dream of winning a National Championship, but if you asked anyone at the beginning of the season how this team would do, you would not have found anyone that gave them a chance at Nationals. The young ladies from West Seneca defied truly the odds and exceeded the expectations of everyone.

14U LLFHL Finalists

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fter defeating strong teams from Woodstock, Ingersoll and Niagara Falls the West Seneca Wings Girls 14U team qualified for the LLFHL Championship Weekend in Mississauga, Ontario. During the tournament West Seneca went undefeated to reach the Championship Game against a team from Walkerton who had not lost a game all season.

Earlier in the Tournament the Wings surprised the team from Walkerton scoring a late goal to earn a 1 – 1tie.

The championship game was just as tough of a game as the one played the day before. Walkerton jumped out to a 1 – 0 lead but the Wings fought back drawing on the inspirational play of their goalie Sam Heintz. Eventually the Wings hard work paid off and they tied the game in the third period. From their both teams went all out for the win. Unfortunately for the Wings the ladies from Walkerton scored late in the third period to capture their second LLFHL Bantam B Championship.

In all it was a very successful year for the 14U team and with half of the team returning next year good things are on the horizon.

(Articles submitted by West Seneca Wings Hockey)

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May 2012

Team USA vs Finland 2012 IIHF Women’s World Championship Burlington, VT. with New York’s Josephine Pucci #24!

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Kid’s Page!

Tally Your Score by Adding and Subtracting the Pucks:

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Send us a drawing of your favorite hockey player! We’ll publish them in our Summer issues. Deadline is June 1, 2011. You can draw it on the computer or draw it on paper and have it scanned or photographed. Send it through the mail to NY Hockey OnLine, c/o Janet Schultz, 3663 Irish Road, Wilson, NY 14172 or email it to:

Send to Janet@nyhockeyonline.com