FEELING A DRAFT
Fisher Scott just wrapped up his second full USHL season with the Dubuque Fighting Saints.
And next season, the Carbondale native will head to NCAA Division I Colorado College an NHL prospect after being taken by the Detroit Red Wings in the seventh round (208th overall) in last month’s NHL Draft, held at Sphere in Las Vegas.
“Of course, I knew I had a shot to be drafted, but I didn’t think I was a lock by any means,” said Scott. “I knew I had a really good year and had talked to a few teams, so I knew there was a chance. Glad it worked out.
“I was driving in California with my mom and my roommate from Dubuque called me right away and told me. It was special.”
Last season with Dubuque, Scott posted eight goals and 25 assists for 33 points in 61 games.
The first week in July, Scott headed to Motown for the Red Wings’ annual development camp.
“Camp was awesome,” Scott said. “The city was beautiful, the facilities were amazing, and the coaches and guys there were awesome. It was
great hockey and a lot of fun to be a part of. I had a blast.”
Now ready to head to Colorado College for his freshman season in 2024-25, Scott feels the Tigers can help him improve his game even
Colorado native Fisher Scott spent the last two seasons skating for the USHL’s Dubuque Fighting Saints. Photo/Dubuque Fighting Saints
making it, so I just need to stick with it and keep working hard,” said Scott. “I can’t wait to get to CC and get in with the program. Should be a really good team and I expect to have a great year and contribute in any way I can. Should be a ton of fun to be a part of.
“Confidence is high, definitely. The draft helps with that, but that confidence also just comes from the work that has been put in over the years and I know I have all the capabilities that I need. Obviously, a long way to go and I need to get better, but I am confident in where I am at right now and I’ll definitely carry that into school.”
more to be pro hockey-ready when the time comes to make the next jump.
“I think getting drafted motivates me even more because it shows that people think I have a real shot of
In Colorado, Scott skated for the Aspen Leafs, Krivo School of Hockey Elite, and Colorado Thunderbirds. Also in Vegas, former Krivo and Thunderbirds alum Tij Iginla was selected fifth overall by the Utah Hockey Club. Iginla, the son of former Colorado Avalanche forward Jarome Iginla, played the 2023-24 season for the WHL’s Kelowna Rockets and has already signed his entry-level contract with the former Arizona Coyotes.
For Albuquerque native Hartinger, commitment to NCAA D-I Franklin Pierce a milestone for New Mexico women’s hockey
Taylor Hartinger is in rare company as a female hockey player from New Mexico who will play Division I NCAA hockey.
Recently, the Albuquerque native committed to play for Franklin Pierce University, a school located in Rindge, N.H.
“At the beginning of the year, I had talked to coach (David) Stockdale from FPU,” said Hartinger. “He offered had me a spot for 2024 but I felt like I was not ready and needed more time to develop my game. We spoke again after Nationals in early May and he offered me a spot once again for fall of 2024. After playing a season with Little Caesars (in the
Detroit area), my confidence grew and my playing style had evolved. I felt like I matured more as a player and was ready to make the move to play at a colligate level.”
The Ravens came in second in the 2024 NEWHA tournament to advance to the NCAA tournament.
“I like that the Ravens are a strong, competitive program,” Hartinger said.
Achieving a milestone such as being a female from New Mexico to go D-I leaves Hartinger in awe, though.
The first was Sonny Watrous, another Albuquerque native, who played at Providence College from 2003-07. She was also named Hockey East Rookie of the Year in 2004.
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Hartinger played the 2023-24 season in the Detroit area for the Little Caesars program.
Boulder native Gatewood uses NCDC as springboard to NCAA Division III commitment to SUNY Geneseo
Payne Gatewood played the 202223 and 2023-24 seasons for the NCDC’s Utica Jr. Comets.
The Boulder native will stay in New York for the upcoming 2024-25 season after recently committing to NCAA Division III SUNY Geneseo.
“Going into my age-out season, I knew I would need to perform at high level to attract the schools I wanted to attend,” said Gatewood. “Around December, I had a meeting with my coach regarding colleges. He informed me that SUNY Geneseo had some interest and would be reaching out to me. I knew it was a top Division III program with a strong academic reputation, and I was very excited to hear from them. After a few weeks of talking with them, I made the decision to commit.”
Gatewood added that he sees Geneseo as “the perfect fit.”
“They have a reputable coaching staff who are all alumni, which to me shows how great the culture is and
Payne Gatewood served as team captain in 2023-24 for the NCDC’s Utica Jr. Comets.
Photo/Kyle Martino
how strong the community is,” Gatewood said. “The team consistently ranks in the top 10 and has the opportunity to win a national championship, which has always been a dream of mine. I have visited three times, and each time I visited was better than the last. The facilities are awesome and I was able to speak with players graduating this year, who had nothing but good things to say about the hockey program and the school as a whole. SUNY Geneseo has also moved many of their players on to the pro level, including the AHL, ECHL, and overseas. I think that has a lot to do with the way the team is coached and how well guys develop there as players and as people. Academically, SUNY Geneseo provides a wide variety of career paths.”
Taylor
Photo/Tanya Hartinger
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Words from the publisher...
It’s now mid-July, which means hockey season is rapidly approaching!
And the news is coming fast and furious.
Earlier this offseason, it was announced by USA Hockey that a pair of California natives were named to the NTDP’s Under-17 Team in Manhattan Beach forward Logan Stuart and Sebastopol defenseman Jonas Kemps. More evidence that hockey continues to boom on the West Coast!
The fiercest rivalry in sports will return to the ice this season as the U.S. Women’s National Team
Matt Mackinder
will face the Canadian Women’s National Team as part of the five-game 2024-25 Rivalry Series. USA Hockey will host the first three games of the Series in November, including the opening contest at Tech CU Arena in San Jose, Calif., on Wednesday, Nov. 6, at 7 p.m. PT. Game two will be at the Maverik Center in West Valley City, Utah, on Friday, Nov. 8, at 7 p.m. MT, followed by game
three at the Idaho Central Arena in Boise, Idaho, on Sunday, Nov. 10, at 5 p.m. MT.
Canada will host the final two games of the Series in February.
Tickets for the Nov. 8 game at the Maverik Center are on sale now, with tickets for the Nov. 10 game at Idaho Central Arena going on sale July 23 at 11 a.m. MT. Tickets for the Nov. 6 game at Tech CU Arena will go on sale at a later date.
The Rivalry Series was introduced by USA Hockey and Hockey Canada in 201819 to provide additional visibility for women’s hockey and showcase the best players in the world.
NHL Network is expected to broadcast all five games of the Rivalry Series live. Love to hear it!
There are so many associations and players out there with stories to tell and ways to keep promoting this great game. Contact me any time at (248) 890-3944 (call/ text) or shoot me an email at matt@rubberhockey. com to discuss potential advertising and publishing partnerships within these paged and online. Looking forward to hearing from you!
California natives, NCAA D-I women’s hockey standouts Barnes, Petrie hear names called at 2024 PWHL Draft
A pair of graduating California women’s NCAA Division I hockey players took one step closer to pro hockey when they were selected at the 2024 PWHL Draft on June 10 at the Roy Wilkins Auditorium in St. Paul, Minn.
Eastvale native Cayla Barnes went in the first round (fifth overall) to PWHL Montreal and then Hermosa Beach’s Dominique Petrie was taken in the fifth round (27th overall) by PWHL Minnesota.
Barnes then signed a three-year contract with PWHL Montreal days later.
Last season for national champion Ohio State, after four prior seasons at Boston College, Barnes led the country with a plus-71 rating and blocked a team-high 62 shots. She finished
lege hockey teams in 2023-24.
the season with 11 goals and 25 assists for 36 points. The Second Team All-American and Frozen Four AllTournament Team member helped the Buckeyes to top-five marks in scoring defense, goals-against average and scoring margin.
During her youth career, Barnes skated for the Anaheim Jr. Ducks, Anaheim Lady Ducks, LA Selects, California Stars and Los Angeles Jr. Kings.
Petrie spent the 2023-24 season at Clarkson, collecting 15 goals and 20 assists for 35 points.
She had played from 2018-22 at Harvard, tallying 30 goals and 41 assists for 71 points.
In California, Petrie spent time with the Jr. Ducks and San Diego Jr. Gulls.
Cayla Barnes (left) and Dominique Petrie played key roles on their respective col-
Photos/Ohio State Athletics/Clarkson Athletics
Parker product Danko staying in Colorado for junior hockey, signs with USPHL’s Fighting Elk
Palmer Danko had a strong senior season with Chaparral High School in 2023-24, and the USPHL’s Colorado Fighting Elk took notice.
Earlier this offseason, the Parker native signed with the Fighting Elk to start his junior hockey career in 2024-25.
“I saw the team was new to Colorado and then Anderson Stark encouraged me to reach out,” Danko said. “I am stoked to play for them. I’ll like being close to home and being a part of a new organization. I’m looking forward to all the ice time, the games, and to travel to play. I also know I am going to have to work a lot harder not only on the ice but off ice, too.”
Growing up, hockey became a passion of Danko’s from a young age.
“When I was really young, my mom really wanted me to play hockey, so I tried it and then fell in love
with the game,” said Danko. “I have loved the Avs since I was young. I started off with the Littleton Hawks, then to Krivo, then finally to Chaparral. Coach Richie Nelson was a huge impact on my game as he made me a much better hockey player and brought my game together. Coach Tim Walsh with Chap was also a big coach in my career due to him always pushing me to be a better player on and off the ice and believing in me.
“Last season was pretty fun and the level of play got me ready for this upcoming season.”
Moving forward, Danko’s goals are simple and realistic.
“I hope to do well on the Colorado Fighting Elk and have a blast,” Danko said. “A long-term goal of mine is to try to make a run playing in juniors for my last couple years of hockey.”
Palmer Danko was a standout player during his senior season in 2023-24 with Chaparral High School. Photo/Rylie Young/Hayden Lewis
Half-dozen teams crowned champions at IE Tournament Series’ SoCal Meltdown event
The Inland Empire Tournament Series’ SoCal Meltdown was held over the July 5-7 weekend at LA Kings Icetown.
A total of six teams brought home banners at the conclusion of the exciting, competitive weekend.
10U Open
Champion: Monarchy Stealth
Runner-up: Monarchy Synergy
In this battle of Monarchy teams, the Stealth topped the Synergy 7-4 to bring home the championship banner. Addison Bisquera took home MVP honors for the Stealth.
12U Open
Champion: Mountain Blades
Runner-up: Bounty Hunters
The Blades put up the offense in a 7-3 win over the Bounty Hunters to claim the title. The MVP was the Blades’ Daniil Nazarov.
12U Elite
Champion: Vancouver Aces
Runner-up: Monarchy Stealth
This tight game saw the Aces win 7-5 over the Stealth to secure the championship. Aaron Akali earned MVP honors for the Aces.
14U Open
Champion: Monarchy Stealth
Runner-up: Sin City Rattlers
Offense was the name of the game for the Stealth, who downed the Rattlers by a 10-3 count to win it all. The MVP was Jacob Clark from the Stealth.
High School/Midget Open
Champion: Sin City Rattlers
Runner-up: Monarchy Chrome
In another close contest, the Rattlers clinched a 5-3 win for the tournament win over the Chrome. Sin City’s Rafe Armstrong was named MVP.
High School/Midget Elite
Champion: Monarchy Force
Runner-up: Santa Clarita Flyers
Regulation time wasn’t enough as the title game went to a shootout, where Noah Gallo notched the winner to give the Force a 4-3 win and the championship banner. The MVP was Sam Buscaglia from the Force.
The next IE event is the Sun and Surf Labor Day Tournament, scheduled for Aug. 30-Sept. 2. For more, visit www.iehockeytournaments.com.
Telluride native, Lizard Heads grad Kusuno climbs advancement ladder, decides on NCAA D-III Northland
After four seasons of junior hockey, Landon Kusuno is off to play college hockey.
This week, the Telluride native committed to play NCAA Division III hockey for Northland College.
Kusuno, 21, is a three-year NA3HL player, suiting up for 132 games with the New Mexico Ice Wolves, 10 being Fraser Cup Playoff games. He also played the 2021-22 season for the Bozeman Icedogs.
Throughout his time in New Mexico, Kusuno tallied 31 points (four goals, 27 assists). His best game to date came on Jan. 14, 2024, as the blueliner recorded three assists during a 4-2 victory over the Texas
Brahmas.
“Landon was with us from the start in Albuquerque,” said Ice Wolves head coach Darren Banks. “He helped establish our culture through his hard work and dedication over the past two seasons. He is a great teammate and brings a professional approach to every facet of the game. A leader on and off the ice, we are excited to follow him on his next step at Northland.”
Kusuno also played junior hockey for the EHL’s Maine Eclipse in 202021.
Back home, Kusuno skated for the Telluride Lizard Heads Youth Hockey Club.
Landon Kusuno played the 202324 campaign for the NA3HL’s New Mexico Ice Wolves.
Photo/NAHL
Jr. Coyotes alum Melo decides on NCAA D-I Alaska Anchorage for college hockey career
Joey Melo, the 2023-24 AJHL Rookie of the Year, has accepted a scholarship to attend the University of Alaska Anchorage to play for the NCAA Division I Seawolves.
The Georgetown, Ont., product had a record-setting rookie year with the Whitecourt Wolverines, setting team highs in goals and points for firstyear players in the program. He compiled 43 points in 56 games including 22 goals, a Wolverines team record.
“We knew we had a special player and person with Joey the second we saw and talked to him,” said Whitecourt head coach Shawn Martin. “Joey’s tenacious energy will make him a very good Division I player for Alaska. He is a pleasure to coach every day.”
“I am very excited and honored to announce my commitment to the University of Alaska Anchorage,” added Melo. “I would like to thank
all my coaches, teammates, friends and especially my family that has helped me along the way. I cannot wait to get started.”
During his youth hockey career, Melo spent time with the Jr. Coyotes.
Joey Melo played the 2023-24 season with the AJHL’s Whitecourt Wolverines and was named the league’s Rookie of the Year. Photo/Dave Watling
El Segundo’s Rivas-Bryant named U.S. winner of NHL’s 2024 Willie O’Ree Community Hero Award
El Segundo’s Estela Rivas-Bryant is the winner of the NHL’s annual Willie O’Ree Community Hero Award, presented by Discover. The award is given to an individual who – through the sport of hockey – has positively impacted their community, culture, or society.
Rivas-Bryant is the founder of The Empowerment Effect, a nonprofit organization for young girls in Los Angeles that focuses on ice hockey and mentorship, providing kids with free equipment, coaching, and ice time. Rivas-Bryant is a first-generation Mexican American who grew up in Southern California. After coaching youth hockey for more than 20 years, she created The Empowerment Effect which currently welcomes more than 30 girls, the majority of whom are
Hispanic, aged seven to 16 years old.
Other finalists for this year’s award were Jerry DeVaul (Colorado Springs, Colo.), president of the Colorado Sled Hockey Association who is a U.S. Army veteran, double amputee, and competitive sled hockey player, and Kelsey McGuire (Philadelphia, Pa.), founder of Philadelphia Blind Hockey, the first and only blind hockey organization in Philadelphia.
“When young kids have strong role models to look up to, the positive impact is long-lasting and powerful. This year’s group of finalists are proof of that,” said Willie O’Ree.
“For so many young girls, Estela is that role model and community leader. Congratulations to Estela for her hard work and constant dedication to bringing her community together.”
“Estela’s remarkable commitment to her community and positive support to the young women in The Empowerment Effect represent what this Award is all about,” said Jennifer Murillo, chief marketing officer at Discover. “She has created an inclusive environment that provides access to hockey for individuals who may have never thought that they could play the game. Discover is proud to highlight the work Estela has done, along with the other finalists Jerry DeVaul and Kelsey McGuire. We look forward to continuing to work with the NHL to support outstanding individuals and organizations that are using hockey to make a difference.”
Rivas-Bryant will receive a $25,000 prize and DeVaul and McGuire will each receive a $5,000
prize, each of which will be donated to a charity or charities of their choice. Fans submitted candidates at NHL.com/OReeAward. The winner was determined by a committee consisting of Willie O’Ree, NHL executives, representatives from Discover, and a public fan vote.
Mark DeMontis (Toronto, Ont.) was previously announced as the winner of the Willie O’Ree Community Hero Award presented by Hyundai (Canada).
Talented California products see NHL dreams get closer at 2024 draft at Sphere in Las Vegas
The 2024 NHL Draft was held over the June 28-29 weekend at Sphere in Las Vegas, and several players with California ties heard their names called to become property of NHL clubs.
And it didn’t take long for the first players with ties to California.
The San Jose Sharks kicked off the draft taking Boston University freshman forward Macklin Celebrini first overall.
“It’s a big weekend for the organization,” said Sharks GM Mike Grier. “We’re really excited. Not only with Macklin (Celebrini), but with Sam (Dickinson), too (11th overall). The potential to add a top pairing (defenseman) and a first-line center doesn’t
come along too often in one draft. It’s a big moment for us and we’re really excited.
“(Macklin) is a great kid, a really good personality. When you sit down with him for two minutes, you feel his drive and his competitiveness. It seeps out of him. That’s what you notice most. He’s a driven kid. He’s an alpha. All the things you expect and have experienced from other No. 1 picks, he has all that. The belief in himself and the will and the want to get better and work on his craft, he’s an impressive kid.”
Celebrini played in 38 games for Boston University this past season, recording 64 points (32 goals, 32 assists). He finished the campaign
ranked second nationally in goals, third in points, and tops in both categories among undrafted NCAA skaters, helping the Terriers reach the Frozen Four. His point total was the sixth-highest single-season output in the NCAA in the past 10 seasons.
At 17 years old, he became the youngest player ever to win the Hobey Baker Memorial Award, awarded annually to the best player in college hockey. He was the fourthever freshman to win college hockey’s top individual honor and has become the first-ever Hobey Baker winner to be selected first overall in the NHL Draft. He also won the Tim Taylor Award, awarded annually to the best rookie in the NCAA, was
named Hockey East Player of the Year and Rookie of the Year, earned spots on the conference’s First AllStar Team and All-Rookie Team, and was selected to the AHCA East First All-America Team.
In international play, Celebrini represented Canada at the 2024 World Junior Championship and led the team with eight points (four goals, four assists) in five games en route to being named a Top Three Player on the squad. He collected 15 points (six goals, nine assists) in seven games at the 2023 U-18 World Junior Championship, helping Canada earn a Bronze Medal after tallying points in each of the final six games at the
Macklin Celebrini had an amazing 2023-24 season at BU. Photo/Marcus Snowden
NHL DRAFT
Continued from previous page
tournament, three (two goals, one assist) in the Bronze Medal Game.
The native of Vancouver, B.C., competed for the San Jose Jr. Sharks in 2019-20, totaling 101 points (54 goals, 47 assists) in 61 games. He is the fourth-ever former Jr. Shark to become part of the San Jose Sharks organization, joining former defenseman Matt Tennyson, forward prospect Reese Laubach and goaltender Devin Cooley. Celebrini signed with the Sharks on July 6.
He can become the fifth-ever first-overall pick to play for the Sharks, the first four including Joe Thornton (selected by Boston in 1997), Owen Nolan (selected by Quebec in 1990), Joe Murphy (selected by Detroit in 1986) and Brian Lawton (selected by Minnesota in 1983).
Then 11 picks later at No. 12, the Minnesota Wild took San Diego native and University of Denver freshman defenseman Zeev Buium.
Buium played his first season of collegiate hockey for the Pioneers last season, totaling 50 points (11 goals, 39 assists), 20 penalty minutes, 41 blocked shots and a plus-34 rating in 42 games as the second-youngest player in college hockey.
director of amateur scouting. “We are very excited to add him to our organization.”
In his youth hockey days, Buium played for the SDIA Oilers and Los Angeles Jr. Kings.
At No. 19, the Vegas Golden Knights selected Tustin native and incoming Providence College freshman forward Trevor Connelly. This past season, Connelly skated for the USHL’s Tri-City Storm.
Appearing in 52 contests, Connelly recorded 78 points (31 goals, 47 as-
raised in Compton. Emery’s father Eric Emery played college football for California State UniversityFullerton and went on to become a linebacker in the Canadian Football League for the BC Lions, Calgary Stampeders and Ottawa Rough Riders from 1985-87.
He said he models his game after current Rangers defenseman and former NTDP product K’Andre Miller.
“My skating ability and how well I play defense (are his strengths),” said Emery. “I would say I’m really good
His 50-point season was the first by a freshman NCAA defenseman in over 20 years. He led the Pioneers in assists and plus/minus, ranked second in points and third in blocked shots. Buium was named NCHC Rookie of the Year and the Best Offensive Defensemen, and was named to the NCHC All-Rookie Team, First AllStar Team and All-Tournament Team. He was also named to the USCHO. com First Team, NCAA First AllAmerican Team and was a Hobey Baker Award nominee.
The blueliner helped lead the Pioneers to an NCHC championship and an NCAA Frozen Four national championship, both played at Xcel Energy Center in Saint Paul, Minn.
“Buium is a smooth skating, puck mover with championship pedigree,” said Judd Brackett, Minnesota Wild
sists) and was named to the USHL Second All-Star Team and the World Jr. A Challenge All-Star Team. The 18-year-old earned a bronze medal at the 2024 Hlinka Gretzky Cup (six goals, five assists, 11 points in six games) and a silver medal at the 2024 World Under-18 Championship with the United States.
Back home, Connelly played for the San Diego Saints, Anaheim Ice Dogs and Anaheim Jr. Ducks.
Later in the first round, Compton native EJ Emery was selected 30th overall by the New York Rangers. Emery skated the past two seasons on the blue line for the U.S. National Team Development Program and will play next year for the University of North Dakota.
Emery produced 22 points (all assists) in 88 games with the NTDP last season. At this year’s Under-18 World Championship, Emery totaled six assists in seven games as Team USA placed second behind Team Canada.
Born in Surrey, B.C., Emery was
posted one assist in five games. In the sixth round with the 185th pick overall, Jr. Kings and San Jose Jr. Sharks alum Tory Pitner heard his name called by the Colorado Avalanche. Pitner calls Greenwich, Conn., home and will play 2024-25 at Denver.
Pitner recorded 24 points (eight goals, 16 assists) with a plus-10 rating in 50 games with the USHL’s Youngstown Phantoms during the 2023-24 season, serving as alternate captain. The blueliner skated in seven postseason contests with the Phantoms, adding one goal.
Pitner has totaled 33 points (eight goals, 25 assists) in 86 career USHL games from 2022-24. Pitner recorded nine points (all assists) in 36 contests during the 2022-23 season, helping Youngstown secure the USHL Clark Cup championship. He has appeared in 16 career USHL postseason outings from 2022-24, tallying the one goal.
Internationally, Pitner represented his country at the 2023 Hlinka Gretzky Cup, serving as team captain and helping the United States capture the bronze medal.
at being a lockdown guy. I’m someone that can shut down plays, get the puck up the ice, and make plays.”
“EJ is a very talented young man,” added Rangers director of player personnel and director of amateur scouting John Lilley. “He’s raw, very athletic, just starting to come into his own. Has a lot of work to do getting a little bit stronger, but the foundation is there. He’s an excellent skater and his defensive game, we found as a staff, was one of the best in the entire draft.”
Mission Viejo native and Lincoln Stars (USHL) defenseman Tanner Henricks was drafted in the fourth round at pick No. 101 by the Columbus Blue Jackets. The Jr. Ducks alum will play for St. Cloud State University this fall.
Henricks registered nine assists with 12 penalty minutes in 59 games during his rookie season with the Stars in 2023-24. The 6-foot-4, 206-pound blueliner helped the United States win a bronze medal at the 2023 Hlinka Gretzky Cup, where he
Rounding out the draft in the seventh round (205th overall), the Philadelphia Flyers chose Las Vegas native Austin Moline.
Moline, a defenseman, played for the Nevada Storm and at Faith Lutheran High School in Nevada as well as for the Jr. Kings. He played the 2023-24 season at Shattuck-St. Mary’s in Faribault, Minn., will play ‘24-25 for the BCHL’s Brooks Bandits and will then be off to Northern Michigan University in the fall of 2025.
Moline recorded 41 points (11 goals, 30 assists) in 71 regular-season games for Shattuck St. Mary’s 18U Prep team in the 2023-24 season. He tallied one goal and 25 assists for 26 points in 68 regular-season games for Shattuck St. Mary’s U-18 Prep team in the 2022-23 season.
“It feels surreal being drafted in my hometown and by such a great organization,” said Moline. “I can’t wait to get down to Philadelphia and meet everyone. I want to thank my family, friends and coaches for everything.
“I couldn’t have done it without them.”
Ethan Rose put together a consistent 2023-24 season with the Colorado Thunderbirds’ 18U AAA team. Photo/Jill
P. Mott
For Littleton native Rose, NCDC’s Grizzlies an opportunity to take overall game to next level
Ethan Rose is leaving home next season to continue playing hockey.
The Littleton native recently signed an NCDC tender with the Rock Springs Grizzlies, a team in Wyoming about five hours northwest of Littleton.
“I started talking to the coach (Darren Naylor) not too long after the season ended and not long after, I was offered a tender,” said Rose. “Rock Springs is a new team to the league and the only direction for us to move is up. It’s also not too far away from home.”
This past season, Rose played for the Colorado Thunderbirds’ 18U AAA team.
“Last season was a little underwhelming on the team level,” Rose said. “I thought it was one of the best teams I’d been on and we just didn’t achieve what we could have. Personally, there’s always room for improvement and I know I could’ve had a better year, but I can’t deny that I did take steps in the right direction.”
Rose said he started skating when
he was old enough to stand and was a Pittsburgh Penguins fan growing up in the Denver area.
“I played for Foothills until my first year of Bantam when I went to play for the RoughRiders, then moving to the Thunderbirds for my first year of 18s,” said Rose. “There are too many coaches to name all of them, but Paul DePuydt, Neil Runbeck and Phil Patenaude are definitely the standouts.
“I will probably remember the success I had with my teammates who
are people I will know for my whole life. I made a ton of lifelong friends and many of my closest friends come from hockey.”
Looking ahead, Rose has simple goals that he feels he can achieve.
“For the short term, I want to obviously officially make the Rock Springs NCDC roster,” Rose said. “Long term, I’m hoping to get a scholarship to play in college and play somewhere with a good athletics department where I can also get a good education.”
Junior hockey drafts produce slew of local talent
Junior hockey drafts have been held this offseason, with a slew of Arizona, California, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico and Utah names selected.
ARIZONA/NEW MEXICO
NA3HL Draft - April 24
1st round, 12th overall, Ryan McCaughey, F, Arizona Bobcats 18U, El Paso Rhinos
1st round, 13th overall, Damian Kostadina, F, DYHA Jr. Sun Devils 18U, Badlands Sabres
2nd round, 53rd overall, Reed Gramlich, F, Arizona Bobcats 18U, El Paso Rhinos
2nd round, 57th overall, Ryan Jim, F, Arizona Bobcats 18U, Texas Brahmas
4th round, 116th overall, Jack Welch, F, DYHA Jr. Sun Devils 18U, Atlanta Capitals
USHL Draft (Phase I) - May 6
2nd round, 18th overall, Reed Brown, F, Tempe, Okanagan (CO), Des Moines Buccaneers
10th round, 138th overall, Evan Hazelberg, G, Phoenix, Jr. Coyotes 15U, Des Moines Buccaneers
USHL Draft (Phase II) - May 7
6th round, 89th overall, Ben Vatis, G, Phoenix, Jr. Coyotes 18U, Lincoln Stars
14th round, 209th overall, Max Edwards, F, Scottsdale, Jr. Coyotes 16U, Green Bay Gamblers
WHL U.S. Priority Draft - May 8
1st round, 1st overall, Braden Hordichuk, F, Scottsdale, Jr. Coyotes 14U, Regina Pats
1st round, 8th overall, Brayden Willis, F, Gilbert, Jr. Coyotes 14U, Victoria Royals
2nd round, 35th overall, Aydan Murphy, G, Surprise, Jr. Coyotes 14U, Lethbridge Hurricanes
NCDC Draft (Phase I) - May 13
4th round, 68th overall, Thomas Duhamel, F, Jr. Coyotes 16U, Utah Outliers
4th round, 70th overall, Cole Willcoxson, F, Jr. Coyotes 15U, Ogden
Mustangs
NAHL Draft - June 12
8th round, 265th overall, Isaiah Yates, F, Jr. Coyotes 18U, Oklahoma Warriors
9th round, 307th overall, Kaden
Rehberger, F, Chandler, Maine Nordiques 18U, Maine Nordiques
7th round, 244th overall, Zane
Vargas, F, California Wave 18U, Yellowstone Quake
3rd round, 70th overall, Luke Gustafson, F, San Jose Jr. Sharks 18U, Tulsa Jr. Oilers
3rd round, 82nd overall, Morry Sheynin, D, Golden State Elite Eagles 18U, St. Louis Jr. Blues 3rd round, 95th overall, Derrick Pedersen, D, Tahoe Prep, El Paso
Irion, F, Rio Rancho, Willmar Warhawks, Minot Minotauros
12th round, 408th overall, Stanley Hubbard, F, Albuquerque, New Mexico Ice Wolves (NA3HL), New Mexico Ice Wolves
CALIFORNIA/NEVADA
NA3HL Draft - April 24
1st round, 14th overall, Trevor Stones, F, Tahoe Prep, Gillette Wild 1st round, 26th overall, Marcus
3rd round, 36th overall, Cooper Soller, F, Los Angeles, Shattuck-St. Mary’s 15U, Sioux Falls Stampede 5th round, 74th overall, Sean Burick, D, San Clemente, Shattuck-St. Mary’s 15U, Youngstown Phantoms 7th round, 101st overall, Odin Vauhkonen, D, Costa Mesa, Shattuck-St. Mary’s 15U, Youngstown Phantoms
8th round, 109th overall, Gavin Clark, F, Newport Beach, Los Angeles Jr. Kings 15U, Lincoln Stars 8th round, 112th overall, Jake Gustafson, F, San Jose, San Jose Jr. Sharks 15U, Tri-City Storm
USHL Draft (Phase II) - May 7 2nd round, 29th overall, Josh Niedermayer, D, Newport Beach, Arizona State, Dubuque Fighting Saints 4th round, 52nd overall, Austin Moline, D, Las Vegas, Shattuck-St. Mary’s Prep, Madison Capitols 7th round, 93rd overall, Kyle Jones, G, Bakersfield, Los Angeles Jr. Kings 16U, Tri-City Storm 7th round, 107th overall, Lenny Greenberg, D, El Segundo, Alberni Valley Bulldogs, Fargo Force 8th round, 117th overall, Tyler Dysart, F, Sunnyvale, St. Cloud Norsemen, Sioux City Musketeers 9th round, 136th overall, Hayden Russell, F, Huntington Beach, Los Angeles Jr. Kings 16U, Dubuque Fighting Saints 17th round, 243rd overall, James Russell, D, Huntington Beach, Los Angeles Jr. Kings 16U, Omaha Lancers
Rhinos
4th round, 104th overall, Nate Eidt, F, Oakland Bears 18U, Tulsa Jr. Oilers
USHL Draft (Phase I) - May 6
1st round, 8th overall, Noah Davidson, F, Irvine, Shattuck-St. Mary’s 16U, Waterloo Black Hawks 2nd round, 29th overall, Zane Torre, F, Ladera Ranch, ShattuckSt. Mary’s 16U, Dubuque Fighting Saints
WHL U.S. Priority Draft - May 8 1st round, 3rd overall, Parker Schellenberg, D, Irvine, Anaheim Jr. Ducks 14U, Calgary Hitmen 1st round, 4th overall, Grady Schaefer, F, Orange, Anaheim Jr. Ducks 14U, Tri-City Americans 1st round, 6th overall, Eli Tverdovsky, F, Los Angeles, Okanagan Hockey Academy 15U Prep, Kamloops Blazers 1st round, 7th overall, Brady Elbert, D, Agoura Hills, California Golden Bears 14U, Spokane Chiefs
JR. HOCKEY DRAFTS
Continued from previous page
1st round, 9th overall, Gavin Burcar, F, Coto De Caza, Anaheim Jr. Ducks 14U, Prince Albert Raiders
1st round, 13th overall, Enzo Didomenicantonio, F, Los Angeles, Los Angeles Jr. Kings 14U, Lethbridge Hurricanes
1st round, 15th overall, Nikolas Ferry, D, Los Angeles, Los Angeles Jr. Kings 14U, Red Deer Rebels
1st round, 19th overall, Evan Frick, G, Costa Mesa, Anaheim Jr. Ducks 14U, Everett Silvertips
1st round, 21st overall, Cole Hajt, F, El Segundo, Los Angeles Jr. Kings 14U, Prince George Cougars
1st round, 22nd overall, Mason Moreland, F, Coto De Caza, Anaheim Jr. Ducks 14U, Saskatoon Blades
2nd round, 23rd overall, Kaeden Tate, G, Huntington Beach, Anaheim Jr. Ducks 14U, Kamloops Blazers
2nd round, 24th overall, Jackson Schaefer, D, Orange, Anaheim Jr. Ducks 14U, Tri-City Americans
2nd round, 32nd overall, Luke Storr, D, El Segundo, Los Angeles Jr. Kings 14U, Vancouver Giants
2nd round, 33rd overall, Drew Larioza, F, San Jose, San Jose Jr. Sharks 14U, Kelowna Rockets
2nd round, 36th overall, Ethan Sung, F, Pasadena, Shattuck-St. Mary’s 14U, Brandon Wheat Kings
2nd round, 43rd overall, Dax Diep, D, San Diego, Anaheim Jr. Ducks 14U, Prince George Cougars
WHL Prospects Draft - May 9
9th round, 193rd overall, Kingston King, D, Valencia, Okanagan (CO) 14U, Medicine Hat Tigers
13th round, 270th overall, Redford Duncan, D, Sherman Oaks, California Golden Bears 14U, Edmonton Oil Kings
NCDC Draft (Phase I) - May 13
1st round, 1st overall, Hayden Russell, F, Los Angeles Jr. Kings 16U, Rock Springs Grizzlies
2nd round, 22nd overall, Riley Schmitz, F, Anaheim Jr. Ducks 15U, Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Knights
2nd round, 29th overall, Justin Ouellet, F, San Diego Sabers (USPHL Premier), Mercer Chiefs
3rd round, 37th overall, Brenden Stirbu, F, Anaheim Jr. Ducks 16U, Rock Springs Grizzlies
10th round, 172nd overall, Marcus Martinez, F, California Golden Bears 15U
NCDC Draft (Phase II) - May 13
1st round, 11th overall, Luke Gustafson, F, San Jose Jr. Sharks 18U, Mercer Chiefs
2nd round, 30th overall, Kyle Pisarcik, G, Anaheim Jr. Ducks 18U, Northern Cyclones
3rd round, 37th overall, Aidan Grant, F, Anaheim Jr. Ducks 18U, Rock Springs Grizzlies
NAHL Draft - June 12
1st round, 20th overall, Aidan Callahan, F, Tustin, Anaheim Jr. Ducks 18U, Oklahoma Warriors
2nd round, 45th overall, Jean-Sebastien Pack, D, Manhattan Beach, Lawrence Academy, Springfield Jr. Blues
2nd round, 51st overall, Timofei Runtso, D, Playa Vista, Los Angeles Jr. Kings 16U, St. Cloud Norsemen
5th round, 155th overall, Ryan Denes, G, Saugus, Little Caesars 16U, Maryland Black Bears
8th round, 265th overall, Isaiah Yates, F, San Diego, Jr. Coyotes 18U, Oklahoma Warriors
1st round, 28th overall, Joseph Wennogle, F, Colorado Rampage 18U, El Paso Rhinos
2nd round, 40th overall, Alec Fish, D, Colorado Rampage 18U, Austin Ice Bats
4th round, 122nd overall, Joseph Radiff, D, Colorado Springs Tigers 18U, Alexandria Blizzard
USHL Draft (Phase I) - May 6 2nd round, 18th overall, Reed Brown, F, Okanagan (CO) 15U, Des Moines Buccaneers
5th round, 62nd overall, Dain Gordon, F, Denver, Bishop Kearney Selects 15U, Cedar Rapids RoughRiders
5th round, 66th overall, Luke Wilfley, F, Englewood, Okanagan (CO)
10th round, 331st overall, Max Silver, F, Poway, Los Angeles Jr. Kings 16U, St. Cloud Norsemen
16th round, 545th overall, Tyler Webb, D, Lodi, Team Illinois 18U, Oklahoma Warriors
18th round, 615th overall, Carson Castro, F, Orange, Anaheim Jr. Ducks 18U, Oklahoma Warriors
COLORADO/UTAH
NA3HL Draft - April 24
1st round, 5th overall, Landen Bendico, D, Rampart High School, Austin Ice Bats
WHL U.S. Priority Draft - May 8 1st round, 11th overall, Colton Lien, F, Highlands Ranch, Okanagan (CO) 14U, Kelowna Rockets 1st round, 16th overall, Owen Hayes, F, Centennial, Okanagan (CO) 14U, Medicine Hat Tigers 2nd round, 27th overall, Brock Stevenson, F, Denver, Okanagan (CO) 14U, Edmonton Oil Kings 2nd round, 40th overall, Gage Beveridge, F, Okanagan (CO) 14U, Moose Jaw Warriors
WHL Prospects Draft - May 9 9th round, 193rd overall, Kingston King, D, Okanagan (CO) 14U, Medicine Hat Tigers
NCDC Draft (Phase I) - May 13 2nd round, 27th overall, Jackson Hill, F, Colorado Rampage 16U, Casper Warbirds
3rd round, 43rd overall, Jack Wideman, D, Rocky Mountain RoughRiders 16U, Rockets Hockey Club 3rd round, 47th overall, Brody Merrick, F, Rocky Mountain RoughRiders 16U, Mercer Chiefs 3rd round, 52nd overall, Quayden Silcox, F, Rocky Mountain RoughRiders 16U, Ogden Mustangs 4th round, 62nd overall, Jack Couture, D, Colorado Thunderbirds 16U, Pueblo Bulls
4th round, 67th overall, Devin Smith, D, Colorado Thunderbirds 16U, Pueblo Bulls
5th round, 73rd overall, Carter Drecksel, F, Colorado Rampage 15U, Rock Springs Grizzlies
15U, Sioux Falls Stampede 8th round, 114th overall, Tate Spaulding, F, Greenwood Village, Okanagan (CO) 15U, Madison Capitols
USHL Draft (Phase II) - May 7 1st round, 11th overall, Ethan Beyer, D, Centennial, Brooks Bandits, Tri-City Storm
4th round, 56th overall, Liam Fleet, D, Denver, Shreveport Mudbugs, Youngstown Phantoms 8th round, 113th overall, Sheldon Rioux, F, Aurora, Colorado Thunderbirds 16U, Sioux Falls Stampede
NCDC Draft (Phase II) - May 13 2nd round, 19th overall, AJ Scarafoni, D, Colorado Thunderbirds 18U, Rock Springs Grizzlies
4th round, 55th overall, Ethan Rose, F, Colorado Thunderbirds 18U, Rock Springs Grizzlies
NAHL Draft - June 12 11th round, 370th overall, Paul Wiczek, D, Park City, Northfield Mt. Hermon, Oklahoma Warriors
Boulder product Zis ‘can’t wait to get started’ at NCAA Division III MCLA this coming fall
Sam Zis has played the past few seasons out east and will continue playing out that way for his college hockey career.
Zis, a Boulder native, recently committed to NCAA Division III Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts for the fall of 2024.
Zis played two seasons in the EHL with the Connecticut Chiefs, totaling 88 games with seven goals and 27 assists for a total of 34 points. He previously played for the Connecticut Chiefs 18U AAA team back in the 2021-22 season, where he played 66 games and recorded 22 goals and 30 assists.
“I am so happy for Sam,” said Chiefs head coach and general manager Greg Heffernan. “MCLA is an up-and-coming program with a great coach. I’m sure Sam will thrive in that environment. We wish him and
the Trailblazers the greatest of success.”
The MCLA men’s hockey team was dormant for the past 20 years until last season, and Zis will join them as they enter their second season back as part of the MASCAC conference.
“I would first like to thank Coach (Jeremiah) Ketts for the opportunity. I am really excited to join the Trailblazers next season,” said Zis. “I also would like to thank Coach Heffernan from the Chiefs, Coach (Mike) Tenney, and all of my coaches back in Colorado for helping me over the years. MCLA is a great school, and I can’t wait to get started.”
In Colorado, Zis skated for the Rocky Mountain RoughRiders, Boulder Hockey Club and Monarch High School.
Sam Zis played junior hockey in the EHL and will stay out east for college hockey. Photo/Dan Hickling/Hickling Images
Lafayette native Babineau signs with NAHL’s Minotauros, continuing climb up hockey ladder
Alec Babineau has lived away from home the past two seasons attending and playing prep school hockey for The Governor’s Academy in Byfield, Mass., 33 miles north of Boston.
This coming season, the Lafayette native will be on the move again after recently signing with the NAHL’s Minot Minotauros in Minot, N.D.
“A mutual connection introduced myself and Coach (Cody) Campbell (also a Colorado Springs native) from Minot in the spring,” Babineau said.
“After a few conversations, it was clear that the program was a great fit. It took some time to get the tender signing figured out, but I was super happy it worked out. Minot is a consistently dominant team in the NAHL and I am super excited to have the chance to fight for a role.
“Minot is a top-notch NAHL program. Everything from day-to-day to ownership is ran like a professional team. I also was super impressed with my conversations with Coach
Alec Babineau wore the ‘C’ last season for The Governor’s Academy . Photo/Governor’s smugmug
Campbell and he had nothing but great things to say about the fan base and the town. From the outside, it’s clear that the team is very involved in the community and the attendance at home games reflects that. I’m super thankful to have the chance to join a team with a great winning culture.”
And while his youth hockey days in Colorado have come to a close, Babineau has a slew of great memories from his time back home.
“What I will remember most about my time playing in Colorado is how tight-knit the hockey community here is,” Babineau said. “Most of my best friends today I met playing hockey in Colorado. I’m lucky enough to still be super close with most of my teammates, skating at Drill House in the summers.”
