The 2016 Hockey Issue - Season preview - ‘NHL 17’ review - Tsongas Center home ice advantage ...and more!
THE UMASS LOWELL
Serving the Student Body Since 1976
October 4, 2016
With young team, River Hawks look to maintain hold on Hockey East
In This Issue Songs to get pumped for game day
Andrew Sciascia
â–ş Page 4
Connector Staff
Top five Tsongas Center moments
â–ş Page 6 River Hawk alumni update
â–ş Page 8
Final River Hawk Scores Team
Score
Overall Record
Field Hockey at Sacred Heart
W 5-0
4-6
Men’s Soccer vs. Binghamton
T 1-1
7-0-2
Volleyball at Albany
L 3-1 5-11
Field Hockey vs. Maine
L 4-2
3-6
Hellebuyck using World Cup experience to propel pro career Brooke Keating Connector Contributor
Drafted by the Winnipeg Jets in 2012, Connor Hellebuyck joined the River Hawks that same year as a 6’4 goaltender with a list of achievements a mile long. Since leaving school after his sophomore year, he has decided that a mile was not quite long enough. Most recently, Hellebuyck had the opportunity to compete on an international stage when he was chosen as a goalie for Team North America in the World Cup Tournament. Although both the US and Canada boast their own national squads, Team North America consisted of players from either country who are under 23 years old. Hellebuyck joined John Gibson and Matt Murray as a goaltending trio. Hellebuyck was not expecting to get much playing time in the tournament, but he saw the opportunity to compete as an honor, and stated that he “got a lot out of it� in an interview with Mitchell Clinton for the Winnipeg Jets. In tournament play, he served as a backup in during the game against Sweden when Murray was out with a thumb injury. But Hellebuyck did manage 10 saves on 12 shots during a pre-tournament matchup against Team Czech Republic, playing in the third
A cold fall air has slowly begun to spin throughout Lowell by the banks of the Merrimack River. The students and residents of the city know that can only mean one thing. October is here and River Hawks hockey is coming down the pike. This Friday and Saturday, Oct. 7 and 8, the UMass Lowell men’s ice hockey team will begin its 19 full season at the Tsongas Center with a home-andhome against the University of Minnesota-Duluth Bulldogs. This will be sixth season in Head Coach Norm Bazin’s tenure with the River Hawks. Coach Ba-
zin entered UMass Lowell for the 2011-12 season tasked with righting the ship for a team that had gone 5-25-4 the previous season and came dead last in the Hockey East
The new scheme led the team to a second place finish in the conference, a spot in the Hockey East Tournament (where the team was defeated in the first
Division. Just that season Coach Bazin proved himself, taking a young team and giving them a new, more aggressive style of hockey to play.
round) and a 24-13-1 record. Under a new coach, the team went on to establish itself as a fierce competitor on a regional and national level.
â–ş See “Preview,â€? page 8
‘NHL 17:’ The game hockey fans deserve Andrew Sciascia Connector Staff
Imagine running into an estranged friend or family member one day in the near future to find that they have refined and matured with age. Now imagine they have been refined beyond any expectation. For the avid, or even casual hockey fan, “NHL 17,� the latest installment in EA Sports annual
line of hockey games, is that long, lost friend. For the first time in years, EA Canada has stepped away from attempting to redefine the world of virtual hockey in order to streamline, refine and polish the rough edges of previous years. If you are looking for another complete makeover for the NHL series, this will not be your game. However, if
â–ş See “Hellebuyck,â€? page 7
Sections News.............................3 Campus Life.................. 6 A&E.............................. 4 Sports........................... 7
In the seasons that followed, the River Hawks won a Hockey East regular season-title and two Hockey East Championships. The team would also find itself in the NCAA Frozen Four where it lost to Yale in the semi-finals. This fall the River Hawks are coming out of a big season, taking fourth in Hockey East with a 26-10-5 total season record, and a crushing defeat at the hands of the Northeastern University Huskies in the Hockey East Championship. The composition of the team this year looks to be significantly different. The team lost several key veterans this offseason. Kevin Boyle,
Courtesy of Electronic Arts
A virtual Jori Lehtera controls the puck against San Jose Sharks defenders.
you are looking for a crisp, smooth finish to the major overhauls of previous years, look no further. The game still runs on the Ignite engine with a Windows 8 based menu system. The menus are shiny and reactive, crisp and clear. Those fans who were wishing to return to the old fashioned outline based menu system will be disappointed, but in transitioning over to nextgen every EA Sports title has received a menu overhaul. It is not going away. The Ignite engine was a fantastic addition to previous titles, making play more true to life and reactive. In the previous installment, however, the engine felt slow at times. Hits were unresponsive and the one touch deking was still clunky. This is far from a problem now; the speed of play has been greatly increased and on the game’s most realistic setting, “NHL 17â€? feels like the fast paced, hard hitting game hockey fans love to watch. â–ş See “NHL 17,â€? page 4
October 4, 2016
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OPINIONS & EDITORIALS Finding a successor Alexander J. Salucco Connector Editor
Finding a replacement, in any sport, is already a monumental task. Finding a replacement for arguably the best goalie in a program’s history – that is something that could take some time to figure out. I am sorry River Hawk fans, but Kevin Boyle will not be between the pipes this season. After breaking the school record for most shutouts in a season, with seven, he has
Courtesy of Timo Savela
Christoffer Hernberg played for the Espoo Blues in Finland before joining the River Hawks.
since signed a contract with the Anaheim Ducks. Who could possibly fill the skates of Boyle? Head Coach Norm Bazin has his pick of four young net-minders to fill the position. The “Veteran� Christoffer Hernberg is the only goalie on the roster with any NCAA experience – 99 minutes of it. When Hernberg had his chance last year he did not shy away. Playing two games, he posted a 1-0-0 record while stopping 32 shots with a .941 save percentage. During a road game against Providence College, Hernberg was called on to play the final two periods. Allowing only one goal, he saved 13 shots and allowed UMass Lowell to stay with the defending National Champions. The “Wall� Fans, meet Tyler Wall – you will be hearing a lot about
him. The freshman, New York Ranger-draftee has a lot of hype around him. With the Leamington Flyers of the GOJHL, Wall earned his last name. On his way to a 27-2-1 record, Wall allowed 1.49 goals per contest while saving .940 of shots sent his way. At a young age, Wall already has quite the trophy room. Among his accolades are a spot on the Western Conference First Team AllStar and was given the Roy Bruhlman Award as Western Conference Rookie of the Year. The Dark Horses Insert sophomore Sean Cleary and freshman Garrett Metcalf. With four, young players at the same position, there will inevitably be some growing pains. Seeing four different players in net over the course of a season is a stretch, but I would not rule
out seeing three this year. Cleary did not see any action last season behind Boyle and Hernberg, but being under Bazin’s system for a year is always valuable. Metcalf, drafted by the Anaheim Ducks in 2015, has his own impressive pedigree. Playing for the Madison Capitols and the Waterloo Blackhawks in the USHL last season, he posted a 13-16-2-2 record with a 3.21 GAA and .902 save percentage. Although the numbers are not as impressive as his freshman teammate Wall, the USHL is a more competitive league than the GOJHL. That is not a knock on Wall as many GOJHL players go on to play in NCAA Division I and even the NHL. Who will be in net? First, we should take a look at the schedule to open the year. The boys in blue start the year at home against the sixth
ranked team in the country, Minnesota Duluth. There are some pros and cons having a freshman making their first collegiate start against a team of this caliber. If he plays well then his confidence is through the roof and he earns the respect from his teammates. But what if he plays poorly in his collegiate debut? I think the negative impact of a poor performance outweighs the impact of a positive debut. This is why I would go with Hernberg to start the season. Although I believe Wall will end up blocking the net by the time the season comes to an end, I do not want to see Bazin rush him. Behind the defensive core that are returning for their third season together, Hernberg is more than capable of keeping the goalie spot until Wall matures. But then again, it is Coach Bazin.
THE UMASS LOWELL
Serving the Student Body Since 1976
Twitter: @UMLConnector
UMASS LOWELL CONNECTOR
EDITORIAL BOARD COLE FITZGERALD Managing Editor
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Staff MARY CONNELL MATT DWYER OWEN JOHNSON JESSICA KERGO CHRISTINA LADEROUTE KATHRYN LEEBER
MARILYN SAHA ANDREW SCIASCIA BENJAMIN ST. PIERRE HENRY ST. PIERRE MONIQUE REYES
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Email | Connector@uml.edu Website | www.UMLConnector.com Phone | 978.934.5017 ext. 45017 Address | University Crossing, Room 241 220 Pawtucket St. Lowell, MA 01854 General: The UMass Lowell Connector is a non-profit student public forum serving the University of Massachusetts Lowell community. The paper is published weekly and distributed to the university community every Tuesday. Business hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. Please be aware that members of the University community are entitled to free newspapers. Please take one! All UMass Lowell students, regardless of major, are invited to join the Connector staff. Interested students should contact an editor or manager listed above, or visit the Connector Office in University Crossing 241. Advertising: The UMass Lowell Connector advertisements reach an estimated 16,000 UMass Lowell students--their friends and families. To tap this group of
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October 4, 2016
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NEWS
Expansion project for the Tsongas Center Monique Reyes Connector Staff
Dedicated to Senator Paul E. Tsongas, the Tsongas Center has been open since Jan. 27 1998, and remained independent until UMass Lowell obtained the arena in Feb. 2010. Since then the facility has been renovated and there will be an even bigger project underway. There has been talk about expanding the Tsongas Center, which would include a new practice facility neighboring the arena. The project intends to provide further accommodations for the hockey team, as well as both the men and women’s basketball teams. As the university’s athletic department continues to transition into becoming division one, a new practice center will help the growing department fulfill new requirements. The Tsongas Center currently is the official facility for the River Hawks hockey team, while occasionally hosting huge events and concerts. The River Hawks have officially begun their season and the Tsongas Center is ready to accommodate all of the fans. The first official home game of the season will be on the weekend of Oct. 7, 2016. With a growing athletic department and the copious events that are held within the center the need for a separate practice facility is certainly justified. The UMass Lowell Capital Plan Update for the years of 2015-19 which was published on Dec. 2014, states that in fact there is a plan for a $35 million dollar project in order to build a practice facility. The PDF file can be accessed on the official UMass Lowell website. Listed as “Priority #11”, it
says that the plans of expansion were approved by the board of Trustees on Sept. 2014. This will be a 50,000 sq. ft structure intended to accommodate for the NCAA’s and America East Conference membership standards as a Division I University. In addition, according to the report the practice facility will open up the Tsongas Center for more events, hence resulting in an increase in profits for the university. The Capital Plan, a 10 page file, includes
other major developments such as completed developments, housing renovations and energy improvements. However, there has not been an official release from the university informing the students of this new project. This opens up the question of whether the project is on hold while the other 10 priorities listed on the Capital Plan are being attended to. The University website fails to provide further insight.
All photos courtesy of Jennifer Wall
MattDwyer/Connector Dwyer/Connector Matt
The Tsongas Center can currently seat about 6,500 people during hockey games.
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October 4, 2016
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
‘NHL 17’ skates past previous installments
September 5, 2014
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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
►Continued from front page The new and improved AI react and adjust as the game carries on in the most intense fashion imaginable making the game challenging for new players and veterans alike. Complaints relating to lack of depth in “NHL 15” and “16” did not fall on deaf ears this time around, something that typically cannot be said about EA as they currently hold a monopoly in virtual hockey and have been known to be unresponsive to criticism. This year’s game is the deepest it has been in a long time. By enlisting “Draft Champions,” a mode in which players draft an all-star fantasy team to play as through a series of multiple choice
rounds, from the “Madden” series Courtesy of Electronic Arts and adding a “World Cup of Hockey” mode “NHL 17” diversifies its playbook. Although some of these new modes lack replay ability and could be seen as filler, they do provide a much needed change from previous years of just Hockey Ultimate Team, Be A Pro and Franchise modes. In mentioning Franchise mode, it would be impossible to not spotlight it, as it was a major focus for the developers this year and may just be the best mode in the game. It would ‘NHL 17’ is the fourteenth game to use the Ignite graphics engine since 2013. seem this year, creativity was key. It season after season to win champion- game types. Perhaps this title does not is no longer just making manageriships. This year the ability to relocate, attempt to reinvent the wheel and deal decisions for the franchise of your rebrand and re-establish the team of cide that this year hockey is about big choosing and taking them through your choosing reinvigorated this game hits, or speed or player personalities; Courtesy of Electronic Arts mode. As you take control of the fran- it just says it is all of the above and chise you now manage merchandising refines each and every focus from past and ticket prices, team morale, mar- years. Perhaps it is another hockey keting and promotional advertising. game with minor improvements, and But once again, the biggest change maybe that is the best part. “NHL 17” here is the ability to relocate a falling takes every criticism the series has refranchise, design the new logo, sta- ceived to date, corrects for it and takes dium jerseys and more. Not only are it one step further, adding one more you in control this time around, but dimension. The game is flowing and you feel as though the team truly is crisp, responsive and clean. EA Canyour own. It makes every decision fun ada has proved that for several years and exciting. The mode is an absolute the devil has been lurking in the demust play – it commands your atten- tails; ruining would be great years tion, imagination and mind. with minor pitfalls. Not only is EA Something about “NHL 17” just Sports’ “NHL 17” worth every penny, feels right. Perhaps the new game it is worth a look from casual and die modes are superfluous and lacking in hard hockey fans alike. Vladimir Tarasenko was chosen as the cover athlete for “NHL 17” through a fan vote depth, but they add something to do Final Score: A+ on Twitter. when you are tired of the same old
‘Slap Shot’ misses the mark Best recent game-day music Owen Johnson Connector Staff
“Slap Shot” is a surprisingly tough movie to review, as there is plenty to say about it, but there is surprisingly little to say about most of those points. With his team about to fold and desperate to save it, coach and player Reg Dunlap (Paul Newman) starts all-out brawls on the ice, which garners people’s attention to the team and helps them win several games. As this is happening, he is also trying to figure out who the team’s secret owner is, hoping that they will sell the team. The premise of the movie is a bit amusing to say the least. It is kind of a funny idea to have a hockey team devolve into a stereotypical recreation of the sport, but the premise is funnier than the execution. Aside from the final brawl in the movie which succeeds from a really good edit, watching a bunch of hockey players viciously attack one another just gets repetitive and is not amusing in execution. The movie is attempting to be a comedic drama, but other than the ending and the premise, there really is not anything else funny to the movie. There are a trio of brothers that are brought in for comedic relief, but they are more insufferable than they are funny. On top of that, Dunlap’s thought
process, actions and motivations seem all over the place and nonsensical. He is chasing after his ex-wife, but he continuously shows interest in other women, including the ex-wife of a rival team’s goalie and one of his team members’ wife. Granted, in the latter case, the movie says he is only trying to get that specific team member mad so that he will join into the brawls, but it never feels that way. Then, from the goalie’s ex-wife, Dunlap gets information which he uses to taunt the goalie to distract him, which leads to a fight. From that, Dunlap somehow comes to the conclusion that if the team keeps fist fighting with the other teams, they will win. Then, when he finally meets the team owner and confronts them, he is shocked to learn the owner would rather have the team fold then sell the team for a small profit. Due to this revelation, Dunlap berates the owner despite the fact his actions have been more manipulative, unethical, and illegal than the owner’s. “Slap Shot” is a weak comedy that is propelled forward by weak character motivation. Final Grade: C-
Jessica Kergo Connector Staff
5) Fitz and the Tantrums: “Handclap”
This alternative pop song is not only incredibly catchy but also has the power to make listeners want to get out of their seats and dance. It combines call and response applause and upbeat synthetic sounds making it impossible not to clap along. The passion and emotion behind the song lyrics transcends directly into the crowd as well. “Handclap” was released as the lead single off the groups’ third studio album, “Fitz and the Tantrums” on March 25, 2015 by Elektra Records. 4) Dj Khaled ft. Jay Z, Future: “I Got the Keys”
If anyone knows how to get a crowd pumped up it is DJ Khaled and, if he is not enough, Jay Z and Future join in for good measure. “I Got the Keys” is an anthem for success and an admiration for the aftermath of hard work. This song is DJ Khaled’s second single released on July 4, 2016 from his ninth studio album “Major Key” by We the Best Music Group and Epic Records. 3) Katy Perry: “Rise”
In “Rise” Katy Perry sings of thriving through adversity. This powerful song was closely tied to the 2016 Summer Olympics as it was used in an NBC promotional video for the games. With powerful lyrics about
attaining victory through seemingly hopeless circumstances and its mid-tempo electronic feel, “Rise” speaks to every listener and has the ability to empower a crowd with optimism and anticipation. Capitol Records released this song on July 14, 2016 as a standalone single.
JOIN US FOR RIVER HAWK HOMECOMING Cheer on our Division I men’s hockey team at TWO games and enjoy a weekend jam-packed with reunions, entertainment, campus tours, family fun and more! Students, families, faculty, staff, alumni and friends are all welcome.
OCTOBER 21-23
2) Four Year Strong: “We all Float Down Here”
“We all Float Down Here” is the ultimate fight song. It is intimidating but empowering at the same time. The lyrics describe the morale and inner strength it takes to prove oneself to the cynics and come out on top in the end. The song was released by Pure Noise Records on their 2015 self-titled album. 1) Fall out Boy: “Centuries”
This song has made number one on the list because it represents a yearning desire to leave a legacy of immense importance driven by dreams and endurance. It is clear that ESPN used it as their official theme song for sports coverage because of its high level of intensity. “Centuries” sounds powerful and predatory, reminding fans of how important the passion behind the game is. The song was released as the lead single off Fall out Boy’s sixth studio album “American Beauty/American Psycho” in 2015 by Island Records.
HOMECOMING FEATURES \\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\\
Hawkey Way Homecoming Festival ✶ Division I Hockey Reunions ✶ East Campus Block Party ✶ Live music Annual Jennifer’s 5K Run/Walk ✶ Campus tours www.uml.edu/homecoming
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October 4, 2016
CAMPUS LIFE
Top five moments on the Tsongas Center ice Shane Foley Connector Editor
Among the many dominant aspects of the UMass Lowell River Hawks Hockey team (experienced coach, hard working players, etc.), it cannot be overlooked what role the crowd plays. River Hawk nation has made the Tsongas Center a very formidable arena for opposing teams to play, specifically in the past few years when attendence in the venue has skyrocketed. The student section has been “United in Blue” for many glorious victories, a couple crushing defeats and several miracles on the Tsongas ice. Below, in tribute to the student section are the five greatest moments seen in the Tsongas in the past
few years: 5. 2016 “Star Wars” Night: After the release of “Star Wars: The Force Awakens,” most of the country was participating in “Star Wars” mania. Therefore, to the delight of many fans, during a game the following January, several “Star Wars” characters could be seen around the Tsongas, including R2D2, Rey and BB8. A reccuring event for UMass Lowell hockey, the 2016 edition of Star Wars night was a special event where fans first saw characters from “Episode 7.” 4. C.J. Smith Hat Trick: When Arizona State rolled into the Tsongas Center in Jan. 2016, a tremendous performance in all three phases of the game was waiting for
them. The River Hawks held them to only 12 shots, Kevin Boyle only allowed one puck past him and we also scored eight times. No effort was perhaps more impressive that night than Smith finding the back of the net three times. The hat trick was a great resume builder for the junior who maybe looking for another hat trick at some point this season. 3. Adam Chapie Scores… and right after, Adm Chapie Scores: That moment when the student section barely got to sit down. Much cheering was done during the Feb. 2016 game against Boston University when we trimphed 6-3. Dylan Zink began the night of scoring with a hat trick of his own. It was Chapie’s goal
in the second period, however, that made Boston University change goalies. They met for a face off after the goal, and before the student section could sit down after cheering for the first one, Chapie scored again on the new goalie. Nine seconds had elapsed between goals. 2. Michael Louria’s Overtime Goal: The final game in 2014 was not only a great moment for the team, but for the fans. University of Maine was the final opponent before beginning winter recess for the University. Many other students had already gone home to enjoy their holiday celebrations, but the student section was still stuffed when Maine came into town. The two teams were tied at the end
of regulation, and many students choose to stay for overtime. They got to see Louria take a rebound off an Evan Cambell slapshot and put it in the net with 1:03 minutes left in overtime. 1. Student Section sings National Anthem: A record breaking night for the Tsongas Center. 2,356 had come to watch the home opener against Boston College in Oct. 2014, the highest attendance the Tsongas had seen. Prior to the game, the singer of the National Anthem was experiencing issues with her microphone. So, in true River Hawk spirit, the student section filled in and finished the anthem in unison. The event set the emotional tone for the season to come.
Ten must-have items for a hockey game Christina Laderoute Connector Staff
Hockey season is here. Welcome back all die hard hockey fans and hello to new incoming fans. Whether you have been to a River Hawk hockey game or not, here is a list of must have items to bring to ensure that you have a wonderful season: 1.Your student ID – This is your ticket in, do not forget it. 2.River Hawk Gear/something blue – Show off your school pride by wearing school colors. You will be sitting in the student section and you do not want to be the only one without the correct gear on. “United in Blue” is our motto after all. 3.Sweatshirt/stuff to keep you warm – It can get
a bit chilly in the Tsongas Center, but do not worry too much, you will be jumping up and down a lot so it will keep you warm. 4.School Spirit – One of the best parts about the games are the student sections’ enthusiasm; be loud, be proud and have fun. 5.Horn/noise maker – Your voice will suffice. The louder you are, the better. The players love to hear the fans cheer for them. 6.Signs – Support the team or your favorite player. There are some pretty awesome signs at the games; add yours to the list. 7.Cell phone/camera – You can live tweet the score as well as take some great pictures and selfies
with your friends. Also, you never know when your face might make it up onto the score board. 8.Friends – Games are more fun when you have someone to cheer with. Put together a group to go to the game together and then you can all celebrate when we win. 9.$5 for water – You will be glad you brought it. Water may seem expensive, but when you are thirsty and would pay anything for a drink, it will not seem too bad. 10.Cough drops – Trust me your throat starts to hurt after screaming for a while. Hard candy would also work if you are not into the minty-ness of cough drops.
Largest home-ice advantage in Hockey East resides at Tsongas Center Andrew Sciascia Connector Staff
It is no secret that in college hockey home ice advantage is key; perhaps even more so than in the NHL. The taunts and chants are unmerciful. The crowds, although smaller, are even more raucous. College hockey is just about as wild as it gets. That home ice advantage is no small thing, and it should be proudly touted that at the Tsongas Center the ice is tilted in favor of the River Hawks. “Students get you over the mountain top. As a student athlete I can tell you, when you run out of energy you need to find it somewhere else… that’s where they come in,” said Athletic Director Dana Skinner. Simply put, from the top down everyone on campus is buzzing. The hockey fans at the Tsongas are the best in Hockey East; maybe even the country. “We have a very large number of student fans that take up almost half of the Tsongas. Each join in on chants and cheers that can really sway the game in our favor,” said super-senior Thomas Marsh. As anyone will tell you, the student fan section at Tsongas is both massive and electric. Just last year the students of UMass
Lowell broke the student-fan attendance record at the Tsongas with a standing room only crowd of 7,326. 2,354 of these attendants were students of the University. In fact, UMass Lowell was ranked first in Hockey East for average attendance and eigth in the nation. “Our goal is to fill every seat, every game. If we have to keep expanding that fan section then by God that’s what we’ll do,” said AD Skinner.
“My friends and I are always in line ridiculously early to make sure we get our seats.” What sets the fans at Tsongas apart so much that they could be said to determine the outcome of close games?. Most students would reference the unique taunts and characters present at each game, and the majority of those who spoke to the Connector say it all has to do with two key words.
“Loud and Proud.” “Our fan base is very hard core compared to what I’ve seen. There’s always the guy with the “Easy Button” right up against the glass. There’s the kid that holds up a stuffed penguin dressed in a UML jersey. UML’s flag is always somewhere in the crowd,” said super-senior Sean Hays, “If you haven’t lost your voice were you even there?” All this combined with the immense dedication of the River Hawk fan base and you have a winning recipe. Many students consider themselves to be “hardcore” fans, and no matter what the fans come out to as many games as they can. They will do anything for the team, from cheer during every game to sing the National Anthem together should there be an equipment issue. “It’s the commitment to the sport. My friends and I are always in line ridiculously early to make sure we get our seats, we also go to away games… always there to back our team up, and be for them win or lose,” said senior Camille Guertin. Losing at home does not seem to be a problem for the River Hawks, however. With a 14-2-3 record at the Tson-
gas last season the team seems almost invincible at home. And do not think the team does not notice the effect the fans have had on that home record. “The hockey players themselves tell me all the time what an impact it has when they have a big student crowd,” said Skinner. The athletic director also indicated that as the hockey team’s fan base grows it seems to cause a ripple effect. Students are purchasing more River Hawk gear; they are letting their pride flow out across campus. Attendance rates at all sporting events are increasing yearly, and it may be in part due to the success of UMass Lowell hockey leading the way. With hockey season starting this week one thing is certain: the fans will be filling the Tsongas Center in droves. Their dedication and contagious energy filling the arena and the campus. With a massive class of incoming freshmen looking only to increase the size of the fan section it would appear the Tsongas Center will maintain its ability to boast the greatest home ice advantage in the Hockey East Division.
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October 4, 2016
SPORTS 2016-17 season preview Hellebuyck’s upward trajectory ► Continued from front page
the starting goaltender, has graduated. Forward Adam Chapie, who was a team leader for assists, will also not return this year.
Several key players will, however, return this season. Among these will be senior forward Joe Gambardella, who had the second most goals (14) and assists (16) last season, and forward C.J. Smith, who lead the team in goals (16) and assists (19). With these two star players returning this year the team should be able to see a strong offensive output built around them. The 2016-17 season presents a challenging schedule for the River
Hawks, with the bulk of Hockey East Conference play coming in November and early 2017 with frequent home-and-homes against some of the best teams in the nation, similar to last season’s schedule. With the leadership of Coach Bazin, who has worked wonders with several young River Hawks, a strong defensive effort and the goaltending situation decided for the season, UMass Lowell fans can expect another great season out of their team. The team very well could avenge last year’s defeat and win the Hockey East Championship in 2017.
River Hawks boast strong freshmen class Hannah Manning Connector Editor
The UMass Lowell Men’s Ice Hockey Team are looking to build on their success from last season, where they finished one game short of the Frozen Four. The 2015-16 seniors were the River Hawk’s winningest class. This year’s crop of freshmen have a lot to live up to. This year’s roster features nine freshmen in total – two goaltenders, one defenseman and six forwards. Of the nine, three have been selected in the NHL draft. Goaltender Garrett Metcalf was taken by the Anaheim Ducks in the sixth round of the 2015 NHL draft, 179 overall. Forward Ryan Lohin and goaltender Tyler Wall were selected by the Tampa Bay Lightning and the New York Rangers, respectively, in the 2016 NHL draft. The six forwards will hopefully add a goal scoring flair to the River Hawks, a team that is known for its strong defense and goaltending. Last season, UMass Lowell offense scored less goals than five other teams in Hockey East despite finishing second in the tournament. The River Hawks scored 58 goals in 2015-16, 12 less than the next place up on the statistics sheet, Notre Dame. A few of the freshmen forwards enter this season with a knack for productivity up their sleeve. Nick Marin had 39 points in 44 games with the USPHL’s Springfield Jr. Pics. Colin O’Neill had 55 points in 59 games last season in the AJHL with the Okotoks Oilers. 39 of those 55 points came from assists. In his last season with the Des Moines Buccaneers of the USHL, Kenneth Bausinger scored 48 points in 60 games. James Winkler has been classified as a “pro-typical power forward who goes to the dirty areas of the ice and has a rocket of a shot” on a 2013 scouting report. Coming in at 6’3” and 205 pounds, Winkler is one
of the bigger players on the team and could use his size to muscle his way to the net. The lone addition to the defense, Mattias Göransson, comes to the River Hawks fresh off of winning a USHL championship with the Tri-City Storm. He served as an assistant captain for his final season there, and will no doubt serve to bolster the already strong defense corps that Head Coach Norm Bazin has built. Wall and Metcalf ’s places on the team roster present an intriguing conundrum for the team. They will be two of the four goaltenders on the team vying for the starting position that has been vacant since Kevin Boyle graduated. In 31 games with the Leamington Flyers of the GOJHL, Wall amassed a 1.49 goals against average and a .940 save percentage. On the other hand, Metcalf had a 3.19 GAA and a .907 save percentage in 27 games with the Madison Capitals of the USHL before playing nine games with the Waterloo Black Hawks and earning a 3.26 GAA with a .883 save percentage. While these do not appear to be as impressive as Wall’s statistics, the USHL is at a higher tier of junior hockey than the GOJHL. Out of the two of them, however, only Wall has playoff experience. While the River Hawks did lose a considerable number of players, there are only so many spots to fill. Goaltending will not be the only position with competition for ice time; there are six forwards in the freshmen class alone, and only 12 forwards are dressed for games. Coach Bazin takes relatively unknown players and shapes a group into a well-run winning machine. They all play with a common goal: to win hockey games. This crop of freshmen players have the potential to become emblematic of the River Hawks’ style of play in the program’s 50th year.
► Continued from front page
period as Murray’s replacement.
The Commerce, Mich. native saw the tournament as a learning experience, and “came from there more prepared than [he] went in,” as he told Clinton. Prior to attending UMass Lowell, Hellebuyck played for the Odessa Jackalopes in the North American Hockey League (NAHL). He took home awards such as Co-Rookie and Co-Goaltender of the Year and was named the first team goaltender for the 201112 all-NAHL team. Hellebuyck led the NAHL in both minutes played and saves. During the 2012-13 season, as a freshman, Hellebuyck led the River Hawks to the Frozen Four after stopping 59 out of 60 shots against both the University of Wisconsin and the University of New Hampshire. He was also named the Hockey East Tournament MVP. In his sophomore season, Hellebuyck totaled nearly 800 saves on the
year, including back to back shutouts against Penn State and Notre Dame. This success earned him the title of Hockey East Defensive Player of the Week – twice. Hellebuyck remains the only player in Hockey East history to win Hockey East Tournament MVP twice. Last year, Hellebuyck played in 26 NHL games, starting in all of them and earning 13 wins with the Winnipeg Jets. This upcoming season, Hellebuyck competes for a spot on the Winnipeg Jets roster with Ondrej Pavelec, who also attended the World Cup for the Czech Republic. Pavelec hopes to earn the top goaltending spot for the Jets, after playing in 33 games last season and posting a .920 save percentage. As for Hellebuyck’s future, the Jets have a lot to consider when it comes to goaltending this season. They have four options, each coming with their own pros and cons. Michael Hutchinson and Ondrej Pavelec have
had strong showings in the past, but weaker seasons have proven both net minders as inconsistent. In addition, both players could be placed on waivers if sent down to the American Hockey League (AHL). Hellebuyck posted a strong .918 save percentage in his rookie season, but the coaches may question if he is ready to take on the NHL as a first-line goaltender. Lastly, Eric Comrie is an up and coming goalie for the Manitoba Moose, the Jets’ AHL affiliate. Although not in the contending for a top spot, placing Hellebuyck in the AHL with him could be detrimental to both players, forcing them to split time on the ice. Overall, it seems as though Hellebuyck has a chance at earning a fulltime spot on the Winnipeg roster. And even though he did not see much ice time during the World Cup, the nomination to Team North America may have given him the confidence to earn the spot and succeed in the NHL full time.
INDEPENDENT UNIVERSITY ALUMNI ASSOCIATION OFFERING SCHOLARSHIPS The Independent University Alumni Association at Lowell (IUAAL) is offering many scholarships to deserving students. Students who wish to apply for the Independent University Alumni Association Scholarships (formerly known as the University of Massachusetts Lowell Alumni Association) should stop by the Alumni Association Office in the Alumni Memorial Library, North Campus, Financial Aid Office, or Dean’s office to pick up an application. Scholarships will be awarded in January for the second semester. Applications must be returned to the Alumni Association Office in the Alumni Memorial Library building second floor, by the DAY BEFORE THANKSGIVING. If you need more information, please contact the Alumni Association Office at 978 454-6335. GRANTS The Alumni Association has set aside money to fund a Development grant Program. Application forms and criteria for applying for a grant are available at the IUAAL office in the Alumni Memorial Library building on North Campus. Briefly, any Academic Department, Instructor, or Student Group at the University of Massachusetts Lowell may apply. Grants will generally not exceed $2500. per application. For more information please contact the Alumni Office at 978 454-6335.
UM ASS L OWELL C ONNECTOR
October 4, 2016
Page 8
SPORTS
Thibodeau looking forward to working with River Hawks Brooke Keating
Connector Contributor
Troy Thibodeau will be a fresh face in the coaching staff for the 2016-17 hockey season. Thibodeau was hired as the Director of Hockey Operations for the UMass Lowell River Hawks in July 2016. Prior to joining the university, he worked as Video Coordinator and Director of Analytics for the Merrimack College Warriors after graduating from the University of Southern Maine (USM) in 2014. This past summer, Thibodeau competed in three triathlons, and has always taken an interest in athletics. In addition to being a two season athlete at USM, after graduation he briefly pursued a career
Courtesy Troy Thibodeau
The newest Director of Hockey Operations.
in Strength and Conditioning, and has competed internships at the University of Florida and the University of Denver before deciding to pursue a coaching career. This led him first to his position with Merrimack, and ultimately to his current place in the UMass Lowell coaching staff. On a day-to-day basis, Thibodeau takes care of all aspects of video for the team, including presentations, pre-scouting opponents, game clips for review, and the filming of practices. In addition, he is responsible for all team travel – transportation, hotel, and meals for home and away games – as well as acting as an “Academic Liaison” for the Academic Support staff, where responsibilities include maintaining connections between players and Academic Support and overseeing study halls. Thibodeau is a firm believer in that success that comes with teamwork, “selflessness, detail and passion,” and highlights the importance of taking pride in his work. “I… hold myself accountable to stay organized and detailed so that we can continue the winning culture that has been built at UMass Lowell,” Thibodeau said. In comparison to other organizations where he has worked and played in (Thibodeau played both hockey and baseball at USM), the new director of hockey operations can see how the values of the UMass Lowell River Hawks reflect those of a successful organization. In particular, Thibodeau pointed out the River Hawks’ commitment to a common goal: to win hockey games. “When no one cares who gets the credit, it’s amazing what can be accomplished,” said Thibodeau. He credits this fact for the Riverhawk’s recent success on the ice, which has included two
U P C OM I N G
River Hawk Games Friday, Oct. 7
7:15 pm MHOC vs. Minn-Duluth
Saturday, Oct. 8
7 pm
Friday, Oct. 14
9:30 pmS
Saturday, Oct. 15
9 pm
Friday, Oct. 21 Saturday, Oct. 22
MHOC vs. Minn-Duluth, MHOC at Colorado
MHOC at Colorado
7:15 pm MHOC vs. St. Lawrence 7 pm
MHOC vs. Clarkson
For more sports information and full game schedules visit goriverhawks.com
back-to-back Hockey East championships. Thibodeau was attracted to UMass Lowell in part to the team’s success and establishment as a national contender and his experience as Video Coordinator for Merrimack. He looks forward to overcoming challenges and taking on new responsibilities – both which will shape him into the successful coach he hopes to be in the future. Becoming a hockey coach is a long term goal for Thibodeau, and this fueled him to apply to the position. Although not looking for a lifelong career as a Video Coordinator, getting his foot in the door with an “elite coaching staff ” is the stepping stone to getting there. But even if this position is not his lifelong dream, Thibodeau does not let this inhibit his work ethic and drive for success, and plans to do “everything [he] can to help this program get better and ultimately win a National Championship.” He says that he takes pride in the responsibilities that he has and is looking forward to working with the River Hawks.
River Hawks hockey alumni: Where are they now? Kathryn Leeber Connector Staff
Many former UMass Lowell hockey players have found success with professional teams following their college careers. This year, 12 alumni have landed spots on National Hockey League (NHL) training camp rosters. In the past, a number of former River Hawks have signed with professional teams after they finished college, whether it be in the NHL, a developmental team in the American Hockey League (AHL) or the East Coast Hockey League (ECHL) or a European team. 2016 is unique in that it has numerous River Hawk alumni in the big leagues. Connor Hellebuyck played for the River Hawks from 2012 until 2014, backstopping the team to two consecutive Hockey East championship wins. After his sophomore year, Hellebuyck signed with the Winnipeg Jets who drafted him in 2014. He played with the Jets’ developmental affiliate team, St. John’s IceCaps in the AHL, for the 2014-15 sea-
Courtesy Fred Kfoury/Icon Sportswire
Adam Chapie was an assistant captain last season.
son. Hellebuyck was called up to play with the Jets for the 2015-16 season. In 2015, he was selected to the US National Hockey Team to play in the World Ice Hockey Championship. He was also named to the 2016 roster. According to his profile on the Jets website, Hellebuyck has played in 26 games this past season with the Jets with a save percentage of .918. He also played in 30 games with the Manitoba Moose; the St. John’s IceCaps changed their name to the Manitoba Moose in 2015. Adam Chapie is another recent alumnus that played with UMass Lowell from 2012 until 2016. Playing as a forward, Chapie scored 25 points his senior year, which put him in second place for the most points on his team. He signed with the New York Rangers after completing his college career. He was sent to their developmental affiliate team, the Hartford Wolfpack in the AHL. Also, recently announced, Chapie is on the training camp roster for the New York Rangers. Be sure to look for Chapie spending this upcoming season with the Wolfpack, making a case to be called up to the big show. Another goaltender for the River Hawks, Kevin Boyle, recently signed a one-year, entry-level contract with the Anaheim Ducks. Boyle earned the Hockey East awards for Goaltender of the Year and Co-Player of the Year for the 2015-16 season in his senior year. His senior efforts were a major factor in getting the River Hawks within one game of the Frozen Four. His save percentage was .934. Chad Ruhwedel is a defenseman who played for
the River Hawks from 2010-13. In 2013, he was named to the NCAA First All-American team, leading to his signing with the Buffalo Sabres in 2013. Ruhwedel played for the Sabres through this past season, in which he only played one game. When his contract expired this summer, he signed a oneyear deal as a free agent with the Pittsburgh Penguins, the most recent Stanley Cup champions. Ruhwedel’s teammate, forward Derek Arnold, played with the River Hawks for all four years of his college career from 2010 until 2014. He then signed with the Norwegian team Lillehammer, playing 45 games in the 2014-15 season. He had 21 goals and 24 assists. From there, Arnold signed with the Manchester Monarchs in the ECHL, the affiliate team of the NHL team, the Los Angeles Kings. This past season, Arnold was sent to a few different AHL teams on loan, such as the Ontario Reign, Portland Pirates and Charlotte Checkers. He will be back with the Monarchs for this upcoming season. Stephen Buco is another forward who played for the River Hawks for three seasons before transferring to UMass Boston. He appeared in over 60 games scoring 10 goals and had 18 assists. Buco played with the Louisiana IceGators in the Southern Professional Hockey League for the past 2015-16 season. This upcoming season, he will be playing for the Pensacola Ice Flyers of the SPHL. With many great alumni of the River Hawk’s hockey program, it can be difficult to keep up with their success after college. Some of the more recent graduates are playing on teams in the US, so try to catch their games to see how well they are doing.