Late Spring 2014 VOLUME 3 • ISSUE 7
! y e k c o H s e t a r b e l e WNY C ek’s Heroes & More! s a H , d n e k e e W s l il Willie O’Ree Sk
In This Issue:
The Bowman Cup Women’s Hockey Men’s College Hockey Senior Hockey Future Sabres And More!
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Contents
In This Issue:
P.O.Box 302 East Aurora, NY 14052 716-830-0182 info@wnyhockeyreport.com Managing Partner Ian C. Woods icwoods@wnyhockeyreport.com Vice President, Business Development Ned McDonnell Commish@wnyhockeyreport.com Publisher & Managing Editor Randy Schultz Randy@wnyhockeyreport.com Designer & Photographer Janet Schultz Janet@wnyhockeyreport.com Senior Columnists Warren Kozireski Warren@wnyhockeyreport.com Contributing Editor Jeff Kolcon Jeff@maksymum.com Communications & Marketing Director Val Andrews Val@wnyhockeyreport.com Columnists Janet Schultz - janet@wnyhockeyreport.com Michael Mroziak - michael@wnyhockeyreport.com Rob Sedia - rob@newedgehockey.com Lars Lewis - Lars@wnyhockeyreport.com Matt Ondesko - Matt@wnyhockeyreport.com Tom Barnett - Tombarnett@earthlink.net Anthony Fiorello - anthony@wnyhockeyreport.com Steve Thomson - steve@hphd.us Skylar Vitko-Woods
Bowman Cup........................................................................................................... 4 Rick Martin Memorial............................................................................................ 4 Luke Gold Memorial Tournament.................................................................... 5 WNY Legends of the Game: Dominik Hasek................................................. 6 Cover Feature: WNY Celebrates Hockey......................................................... 7 WNY Junior Hockey Growing............................................................................. 9 Around the Associations....................................................................................10 College Hockey: Men..........................................................................................12 Rochester Americans..........................................................................................13 Women’s Hockey..................................................................................................14 Buffalo Junior Sabres..........................................................................................16 Top Shelf Training.................................................................................................17 The High Performance Perspective...............................................................20 Rochester Jr Americans......................................................................................21 Junior Hockey: An Argument for Fall Tryouts.............................................22 Rochester Youth Hockey News........................................................................23 Adam Page..............................................................................................................24 Tyler Putnam Awards..........................................................................................25 Senior Hockey........................................................................................................26 Bud Bakewell Hockey..........................................................................................27 College Club Hockey...........................................................................................28 The Whiteboard....................................................................................................30 Future Sabres - Hudson Fasching...................................................................32 WNYHockeyReport_Coupon.pdf 1 4/18/14 8:44 AM Michael Gilbert - His Olympic Journey.........................................................34
WNY HOCKEY REPORT No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical including photocopy and facsimile, without permission in writing from the publisher. WNY HOCKEY REPORT is an equal opportunity employer. Contents 2013 Western New York Hockey Report. All rights reserved. WNY HOCKEY REPORT (USPS 7650) is published monthly, except for May and July, by Ian C. Woods of WNY Hockey Report, 245 Lawrence Woods, Orchard Park, NY 14127. Periodicals Postage Paid at Orchard Park, NY and Additional Offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Western New York Hockey Report P.O. Box 302 East Aurora, N.Y. 14052
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High School Hockey
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Buffalo Seniors Hang On To Win Bowman Cup Buffalo wins title for the eighth time in 10 years. By The Buffalo Sabres The Buffalo team of high school seniors found just enough willpower to come out ahead of Rochester. Buffalo emerged victorious by a final score of 3-2 to take home the Bowman Cup for the eighth time in 10 meetings. Buffalo forward Joseph Langer (Lewiston Porter) provided the eventual game-winner at the start of the second half, and Connor Fields (Bishop Timon/St. Jude) and Steve Skinner (Canisius) also scored in the victory. Goaltender Nate Sommers (Niagara Wheatfield) kept Rochester scoreless for the majority of the first half, and Justin DiChristopher (Lancaster) and Peter Chopra (St. Joe’s) also turned in strong showings for Buffalo. The game started with an extremely unlikely bounce that put Buffalo on the boards first. While Rochester goaltender Connor Greene (Gates Chili) expected a Buffalo shot to go around the boards, the puck ended up right in front of the net, and Fields tapped in the puck past an unsuspecting Greene.
A back-and-forth first half ensued, but Buffalo was able to make it a 2-0 game just past the halfway mark of the period. Tyler Trubish (Williamsville East) carried the puck into the Rochester zone and blasted a shot on net. Greene made the initial save, but Skinner crashed the net from his defensive position and put the rebound in the back of the net. With five minutes to play in the first half, Rochester finally got a tally on the board. Alex Whitehair (Hilton) ripped a slap shot from the left point over the glove of DiChristopher. Brandon Henshaw (Brockport) and Mike Capicotto (McQuaid) assisted on the first Rochester goal. The game-winning goal came at the 3:57 mark of the second half. Buffalo forward Robert McNamara (Kenmore East) worked the puck away as Rochester was setting up behind the net. The puck eventually found its way to Trubish, whose wraparound beat the leg of Rochester goaltender Ryan Schirano (Spencerport). Rochester stepped up the pressure significantly after Trubish’s goal, but the Buffalo squad was up to the challenge. Two of Rochester’s best chances came from talented forward Tim Foster (Pittsford).
It was not until the 16:13 mark of the second half that Rochester was able to narrow the lead to one. Connor Rotenberg (Brighton) drove the puck to the net, and Ernie Clement (Brighton) put the rebound past Chopra to make it a 3-2 hockey game. While all the goaltenders played exceptionally in the game, the end of the contest saw a couple of defensemen make big saves for their team with the Bowman Cup on the line. When Buffalo’s Tyler Riter (Orchard Park) found McNamara all alone in front, Rochester goaltender Tim Brei (McQuaid) was caught out of position. Lucky for him, defenseman Aidan Conolly (Spencerport) was there to bail out his goaltender, getting down in the crease to make the save. Rochester pulled their goaltender to make a frenetic push in the final minute. Rochester’s Cody Howatt (Fairport) had a perfect chance from the slot to tie the game with less than 20 seconds to play, but Skinner got in place to block the shot and was in obvious pain after doing so. While this was a much closer contest than last year’s 9-0 blowout, the end result was the same as Buffalo’s high school seniors were crowned Bowman Cup champions.
Gabriel’s OT Snipe Seals Win For Buffalo Buffalo Jr./Prep squad takes home the Rick Martin Memorial Cup By Buffalo Sabres - Joe Ray (Digital Content Intern)
The high-flying first half continued as Buffalo took their first lead of the contest at the 16:26 mark of the first half. As forward Ben Sharf (Loomis Chaffee) carried the puck over the Rochester blue line, Gilbert rushed into the play and snapped a shot past goaltender Shane Fuller (Rochester Americans 18U).
The highest level of competition during the Bowman Cup series is at the prep/junior level, and Buffalo and Rochester provided an electrifying contest that required an extra period to complete. Buffalo emerged on top by a score of 4-3 in overtime, completing the sweep of all three games in Wednesday’s action at First Niagara Center.
The Buffalo lead would be short lived, as it took just 48 seconds for Rochester to bring the game back to a tie. Off a two-on-one, Rochester’s Teddy McCabe (Buffalo Jr. Sabres 18U) fed Anthony DePetres (Aquinas) with a pass across the slot, and DePetres capitalized, putting a shot past Buffalo goaltender Tucker Weppner (Avon Old Farms) low to the glove side.
Josh Gabriel (Buffalo Jr. Sabres Jr. A) scored the game-winning goal 2:02 into overtime and added an assist on the tying goal. Aaron Reinig (Buffalo Jr. Sabres 18U), Dennis Gilbert (Buffalo Jr. Sabres Jr. A) and Eric Szczecinski (Nichols) also scored for the victorious Buffalo squad.
While the action continued at both ends, Rochester was able to put a second goal past Weppner. Brandon Henshaw found the puck behind the net and was able to sneak a shot in between the left post and Weppner after a number of attempts.
The first goal of this contest was scored by Rochester after a fast-paced opening. Brandon Hutchison (Buffalo Jr. Sabres 18U) advanced the puck into the Buffalo zone while dodging three defenders before burying a backhand past Buffalo goaltender Anthony Tirabassi (Nichols). With Rochester defenseman Ryan Fritz in the penalty box for cross-checking, Buffalo used the power play to tie the game. Buffalo’s Michael Ederer (Buffalo Jr. Sabres Jr. A) used some crafty work along the boards to free up Reinig, whose wrist shot made it through multiple skaters and Rochester goaltender Jordan Severo (Bell Tire 18U).
Rochester would hold the lead about eight more minutes, but a cross checking penalty to Nick Boyd gave Buffalo another chance on the power play. In need of a tying goal, Buffalo found it from Szczecinski. Set up by Joe Cecconi (Muskegon - USHL) and Gabriel, the goal turned out to be the last one of regulation. While Buffalo had tied the game and could have played for overtime, they continued to find quality scoring chances from Jake Smith (Nichols) and Cameron Radziwon (Buffalo Jr. Sabres 18U). Rochester goaltender Lawson Fenton (Rochester Americans 18U) was phenomenal over the final seven minutes of regulation and overtime, but in the end it was Gabriel whose game-winning goal on a heavy
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wrist shot secured the Rick Martin Memorial Cup for the Buffalo prep/junior team.
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Lukey’s Legacy
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Luke Gold Memorial Tournament by Randy Schultz Randy@wnyhockeyreport.com ‘Lukey’s Legacy will no longer be saving goals on the ice but saving lives from above.” That was the theme that was introduced at the first Myocarditis Awareness Day that was held last November in honor of the late Luke Anthony Gould. But last month Lukey’s Legacy grew even
more. The first-ever Luke Gould Memorial Tournament was held over a three-day weekend in late March. A portion of the proceeds went to the “Luke’s Legacy” Foundation and the Myocarditis Foundation. “Lukey,” as Gould was known as by family and friends, died suddenly, and unexpectedly, in the early morning hours of November 16, 2011. He passed of an unknown disease called Myocarditis. Myocarditis is an inflammation of the heart muscle. It occurs when one of a variety of infections reaches that individuals heart. “We wanted a way to keep the memory of Luke alive,” said Kevin Voit, Luke’s grandfather. “This tournament was the perfect way to do it.” The tournament was held in conjunction with the West Seneca Youth Hockey Association at the West Seneca Rink. Sixteen teams from the Western New York area participated including the Auburn Ice Hawks, Perinton Squirts, Jamestown Lakers, Batavia Ramparts, Niagara
Red Hawks, Wheatfield Sinatra, Wheatfield Penguins, Kenton Sharks, Hamburg Bruins, Depew Saints and five West Seneca teams. The tournament was for Squirt House tams (ages nine to ten). The Niagara Hawks (who play out of the Niagara University rink) defeated the West Seneca Penguins (Lukey’s former squirt team). MVP awards were given out after each game and major trophies given to the outstanding goalies, which is the position Lukey played. Donald Lauer, coach of the Niagara Jr. Purple Eagles Squirt House Team Redhawks, said the tournament was more than about winning. “It’s called life lessons,” commented Lauer. “I try to team my team that each month. “The life lesson my team and parents learned over the weekend we played in this tournament could be life changing for some. I had asked Luke’s mom, Amy, that if we went to the conference finals would she come into our locker room and tell the kids about her son. “She did. It was a very emotional speech, which didn’t go without tears. It really moved my players, coaches and parents.” Prior to the championship game Lauer purchased two dozen yellow roses. Jim Bowen, tournament director, positioned Luke’s family where the Redhawks would enter the ice.
Athletic Republic Rochester is pleased to announce our Athlete of the Month for April.
Tanner Woodruff Rochester Junior Americans Empire Tanner, a defenseman for the Rochester Junior Americans Empire team was selected as the 2014 USPHL Empire Defensive Player of the Year. His 40 points in 2013-2014 season was second most by a defenseman in the USPHL Empire Division. Tanner has worked and trained at Athletic Republic for years, helping him improve on the ice every season. Congratulations on a great season Tanner!
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Niagara Hawks, 2014 Tournament Champs. “Each player gave Amy a rose, a hug and had something to say to her,” continued Lauer. “The comments included ‘I’m sorry for your loss’ to ‘I wish I could have met him.’ “It was very emotional with lots of tears shed again. But it was inspiring for our team because we won, 3-1. “We had lost to the same team earlier in the month, 5-0. We overcame a lot. “But even more important was the life lesson we came away with. Luke’s mom was afraid that people would forget Luke. “I know that there are 15 players on Team Redhawks that will never forget Luke. I hope the other 15 teams had the same experience. “It was a memorable weekend, one which we will never forget.”
WNY Legends of the Game
WNY Legends In Hockey: Dominik Hasek by Randy Schultz Randy@wnyhockeyreport.com The one thing I know about Dominik is that he brings you out of your seat. He’s a fabulous goaltender. “Patrick Roy and Martin Brodeur are sensational but conservative. But Dominik, he’s
something else. “Guys like Hasek come along once in a lifetime. People go to watch Dominik Hasek because he’s a performer. “He’s an entertainer.” That’s how Hockey Hall of Fame goaltender Gerry Cheevers once described the legendary netminder, Dominik Hasek. Hasek spent 16 seasons in the National Hockey League playing for the Chicago Blackhawks, Buffalo Sabres, Detroit Red Wings and Ottawa Senators. It was during his tenure with the Sabres that Hasek gained stardom. Hasek was originally acquired by the Sabres from the Blackhawks on August 7, 1992. Over a span of the next nine seasons (1992-2001) Hasek appeared in 491 games. He became the first goaltender in NHL history to win the Hart Trophy twice (1997 and 1998), while also capturing six Vezina Trophies (1994, 1995, 1997, 1998, 1999 and 2001) as well as the William M. Jennings Trophy (1994 and 2001) and the Lester B. Pearson Award twice (1997 and 1998). The Pardubice, Czech Republic native played on two Stanley Cup championship teams in Detroit (2002 and 2008), as well as leading his country to a gold medal in the 1998 Winter Olympics and a bronze medal in the 2006 games. He still holds several Sabres franchise records, as well as NHL records for European-born netminders. For his efforts Hasek was recently inducted into the Sabres Hall of Fame. His induction took place prior the start of the Sabres home contest against the Tampa Bay Lightning on March 29. The Sabres also announced that Hasek’s famous No. 39 will be retired and hoisted into the rafters of the First Niagara Center. “When you play hockey, you never think about having your jersey retired or about individual awards,” commented Hasek. “I want to be remembered as a competitor who gave the team the chance to always win. “It was an honor for me to play for this organization, and this is something I’ll never forget. The Sabres are always staying in my heart.” Buffalo and the Sabres are close to Hasek’s heart in another way. It’s called Hasek’s Heroes. In June of 2001 Dominik Hasek donated $1 million to crate a program to allow inner-city youth the opportunity to learn to skate and play hockey. The former goaltender wanted inner city children to have the opportunity to participate in the sport regardless of economic ability. “With the support of the City of Buffalo, the Buffalo Sabres, and other community partners, Hasek’s Heroes now provides more than 600 children each year with a fun and rewarding hockey-centered program which emphasizes academic achievement and life skill development,” commented Sean Green, Executive Director of Hasek’s Heroes. “Also to is credit, Hasek’s Heroes received a top tier status designation from the
NHL’s Hockey is for everyone initiative, which recognizes that the program is one of the most diverse among all cities represented by the NHL.” “I am very proud of the Hasek’s Heroes organization and what it has done over the years,” added Hasek. “While I knew I wouldn’t always be in Buffalo, I wanted to leave something behind that could become something that people would remember me for.” What is in the future for the 49 year-old Hasek, now that he has officially retired as an active player? “There are new goals in life, and always something new to prove,” answered Hasek. What about an election to the Hockey Hall of Fame in Toronto? “That is not for me to decide,”responded Hasek. “I have no control over that. “It would be nice. But I can’t worry about that.” For now he focuses on Buffalo. “I wish we could have won a Stanley Cup for the Sabres fans,” concluded Hasek. “We had some great teams. “But it didn’t happen. I hope in the future the Sabres can once more turn things around for themselves. “This city, its people, deserve it.” Right: Dom is inducted into the Buffalo Sabres Hall of Fame. Below: The founder of Hasek’s Heros, Dom inspires a group of young players.
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WNY Celebrates Hockey
WNY CELEBRATES HOCKEY!
The Sixth Annual Willie O’Ree Showcase weekend was recently held in Buffalo. The event was hosted by Hasek’s Heros. It featured skills camps and lectures from Willie, Sabres Head Coach Ted Nolan as well as a visit from Sabres Mike Weber and Cody Hodgson. The weekend also included the induction of Dominik Hasek into the Buffalo Sabres Hall of Fame.
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WNY Junior Hockey Growing
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WNY Junior Hockey Footprint Widening by Michael Mroziak Michael@wnyhockeyreport.com Western New York’s hockey sands are shifting once again. This coming fall, the new landscape will include three new junior hockey programs. In addition to the Buffalo Junior Sabres, Buffalo Blades and Rochester Jr. Americans, local hockey will see the birth of the Lockport Express, Roc City Royals and Southern Tier Xpress, doubling the number of Western New York’s junior programs. “I started thinking about a junior franchise about a year ago, when my cousin’s son, who played locally and is very good, moved out of town to play juniors because the only other Junior A team did not select him,” said Frank Vecchio, who is spearheading the Lockport Express as it enters the Northern States Junior Hockey League next season. “He went on to play his way to fifth in the EJHL in scoring this past season. It cost well over $10,000 to do so between ice fees and a billet family. I felt like there needed to be a sound, affordable alternative for local players.” Vecchio and his Lockport Express are one of two Western York teams joining the Northern States League. The other is the Roc City Royals, which will be based out of the Lakeshore Hockey Arena. “We decided to buy a junior franchise based upon response we were getting from the community. We wanted to give more local players a chance to play junior hockey and to move up to a higher level of junior play or to go onto play college hockey,” said Royals general manager Jack Slade. “Being a former college recruiter I have made many contacts within the NCAA and our goal is to develop players that will be able to move up to that level of play.” It’s nothing new to see so many junior programs in our region. Once upon a time, back in the former New York Penn Hockey League of the 1970s, there were plenty of junior hockey teams in Western New York including the Southtowns Cougars, Mang’s Niagara Falls Sharks, Buffalo Blades and Amherst Knights. The Cougars later became the Buffalo Junior Sabres and by the close of the 1970s, the league and most of the local clubs were out of existence. More recently, the Wheatfield Blades entered junior teams in leagues including the Empire Junior B Hockey League and Ontario-based Golden Horseshoe Hockey League (now a conference in a larger Greater Ontario Junior Hockey League). The Buffalo Stars organization also competed at the junior level previously and had as many as three squads competing in various leagues just a few years ago. The Wheatfield Blades hockey association ultimately spun off the junior franchise to independent owners who later gave way to the Buffalo Regals, who operated the renamed Regals Jr. B team last season in the GOJHL. Meanwhile down in Jamestown, a third junior team will try to establish a foothold after the two previous franchises, the Jets and Ironmen, left under different circumstances. The Southern Tier Xpress, as it was recently introduced, will call Jamestown Savings Bank Arena home while competing in the North American Tier III Hockey League (NA3HL).
Critics of the proliferation of junior programs during the Jr. Sabres/Blades/Stars era argued that there were too many teams trying to dip into a finite local talent pool. Those behind the new teams, however, feel there’s enough demand to make it work. “Any time you start something new, there is always a little concern,” said Vecchio. “However, we have done a lot of research in terms of number of players at each level, etc., and we feel strongly that there is a market for this team. “My staff and I have always felt that if you run an honest program, provide quality coaching, opportunity for advancement to the next level, and do this at a reasonable price, we will be successful. We also feel we can co-exist as we are willing to work with both of the other programs as much as they would like. We should all be working to move as many kids to the next level as we can.” One challenge facing the Express and Royals will be developing their role as a next step for those players they are trying to move to the next level. While neither team had an official affiliation with any associations as of yet, the first steps were being taken to change this.
“My staff and I have always felt that if you run an honest program, provide quality coaching, opportunity for advancement to the next level, and do this at a reasonable price, we will be successful.” “We are not officially affiliated with any local youth association. However, as I am vice president of the Wheatfield Blades Board of Directors, who are celebrating our 40th Anniversary season this year, we will work very closely with their Midget teams,” said Vecchio. ” We are interested in providing an affordable opportunity to any local players who have the interest and ability to play junior hockey, not just Wheatfield Blades players.” “There are other teams in the area and of course this does make recruiting more challenging but I feel that when they learn more about our program and what we can offer to the players they will decide to join the team,” said Slade. “Right now we are concentrating our recruitment in the State of New York and surrounding states . We do have the option to have international players on the team.” Neither the Regals nor the Jr. Sabres returned emails requesting their comments for this story. However, a representative of Rochester’s existing junior priogram, the Jr. Americans, did reply. While not directly addressing the forthcoming teams, Jeff Kolcon pointed to the track records of the team and the United States Premier Hockey League, which has more than 130 NCAA commitments from its players, including eight from Rochester with the possibility of a few more choosing colleges later in the spring. “Locally, our model is built from the U16 level and up,” said Kolcon. “In partnership with Rochester Youth
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Hockey, our USPHL U16 and U18 teams feed into our junior teams. These four teams train together, travel together and interchange players to optimize the best training process in Western New York. “Our program is all inclusive. Our tuition fee includes team travel, team hotels, and meals. Further, it includes a full game and practice uniforms all ice time and all performance training. Our development opportunities, track record of promoting players and success on the ice have established us as the point of destination in Western New York.” Slade, however, thinks there’s enough room for two junior programs in town, at least in Rochester. “I believe that we can co-exist, one reason being is that we are playing in the Northern States Hockey league that is sanctioned by the Amateur Athletic Union. This league is new to the region and has expanded to 12 teams with an east and a west division,” said Slade. “When I was a college recruiter I scouted the Northern States Hockey League and other teams affiliated with the AAU and did recruit players from these teams.” Getting the players to come is one of the challenges. Getting fans to enjoy them will be an equal challenge. In the case of the Express, Vecchio is looking to putting his team in Lockport, where ground was broken last fall on a new ice rink complex. “We feel we have a strong target audience that has been looking forward to this arena for a number of years now. We have met with several local people and officials in Lockport and the entire community is extremely excited about our team,” he said. “Many Canadian junior programs are located in smaller towns and if you connect with, support, and become a part of that community, it is a very successful recipe. With this geographic location, we feel we can attract players from all over Western New York and Southern Ontario as well. We have already had some players from several Western New York communities and Southern Ontario attend our rookie camps.” One argument in favor of more junior teams is that it simply gives players more opportunities to play, and more opportunities to be noticed. As Slade explained, the growth of junior hockey in the U.S. is because junior hockey is proving itself to families as a necessary step for those serious about advancing to college hockey. “I believe it does, I know that as a college recruiter we were looking mainly at junior hockey players for our team,” said Slade. “I have spoken with several NCAA college coaches and I know that this is where their focus is for recruiting. They want players that have been developed and are serious about playing ice hockey at a higher level.”
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Around The Associations
10
Around The Associations Edited by Michael Mroziak
previously as the Assistant Coach of the National Team Development Program boys U17 team.
So, did you take in the USA Hockey Nationals at the Northtown Center at Amherst earlier this month? If you missed them, there’s always next year.
She is best known for her participation with the US women’s national team from 1992 to 2005. Her tenure included two Olympics, winning gold at the 1998 Nagano games followed by a silver medal at the 2002 Salt Lake games.
USA Hockey has moved its Tier I championships from San Jose to Western New York, thanks in great deal, according to a report published in USA Hockey Magazine, to scheduling conflicts that arose with World Wrestling Entertainment hosting its biggest event of the year, Wrestlemania, in the same city. It’s a bonus for our local region, which will again get to welcome teams from across the nation, who will bring with them their families and their money for local hotels, restaurants and businesses. In the meantime, the Amherst Knights Tier II 16U girls were among those playing for a national title as the host team in this year’s tournament, and that’s where we begin this month’s Around The Associations…
Amherst Knights The Knights, by virtue of being the host, were granted an automatic bid and made the most of it to start. Amherst opened the tournament on April 2 with a 3-2 win over Steel City. Hannah Gallivan scored to put the hosts ahead 1-0 in the first period. Steel City struck for the next two goals and led the game 2-1 at the second intermission. However, Amherst replied with two goals of their own to secure the win. The goals came about 90 seconds apart. Kailyn Burke scored the game-tying goal, while Molly McDonnell netted what proved to be the winner. Julianna Kersten made 20 saves, while Taylor Story got assists on the Knights’ two third-period tallies. Unfortunately for the hosts, that was all the winning they’d get at the Nationals. They dropped a 3-2 decision in their next game to the Vermont Shamrocks, with Mia Fournier and Lina Mirabella getting Amherst’s goals. Amherst then lost a 4-1 decision to the Alaska-based KPHA Ice Hawks. Olivia Rutkowski scored the Knights’ lone goal. The first win was enough to get the Knights into the knockout rounds, but Amherst was eliminated in the quarterfinal by a 4-1 decision to Marquette. Rutkowski provided Amherst’s only goal.
According to Walsh’s announcement, Looney will spend the spring and summer staying in contact with all of the Bisons’ coaches to introduce the respective concepts to be taught at each age level. The Bisons also listed their Divisional Hockey Directors for the coming season: Chucksters - Joe Leber & Nancy Gruhl Mite Development - Kevin Quick Squirt Boys - Tim Vanini Peewee Boys - Jamie Printz & Shawn O’Donoghue Bantam Boys - Kevin Orzechowski Girls U10 & U12 - Shelley Looney Girls U14 & U16 & U19 - Shelley Looney & Tom Iafallo
Buffalo Stars The Amherst Knights weren’t the only local female hockey team playing for a national title at the Northtown Center in early April. The Buffalo Stars 19U women’s team was also representing Western New York and finished their Nationals in fourth place. Katelyn Koester, Jordan Roetzer and Alanna Herne scored goals, Herne’s on the power play, as the Stars opened the tournament with a 3-1 win over Steel City. Their second game was perhaps their most heroic team effort. After falling down 2-0 to the Portland Jr. Pirates in the first period, the Stars responded with three goals to take the 3-2 lead. After Alyssa Dollendorf got the Stars on the scoreboard, Roetzer scored twice to put Buffalo ahead. Portland scored twice more to go back into a 4-3 lead at the end of the first period. The Stars slowly climbed back and tied the game in the second with Marissa Janiga’s power play goal. Buffalo then took the lead for good in the third on Herne’s second goal of the tourney, while Margaret Janiga made 31 saves to preserve the Stars’ 5-4 win.
Although the Knights fell short of a national title, the memory of being in such a tournament will remain a proud memory for these young ladies and their coaches.
While the Stars followed that game with a 4-3 loss to Alaska, it was nonetheless an impressive performance by Stars goalie Alyssia Taggerty, who turned aside 43 shots to keep the game within reach after Alaska broke a 3-3 tie in the third period.
Buffalo Bisons
Buffalo qualified for the knockout rounds, and opened with a 3-2 win over Princeton. After a scoreless first period, Herne and Jen Sauter put Buffalo up by two goals. Princeton rallied to tie the game in the third period but, just four minutes and one second after the game was knotted, Roetzer scored to put Buffalo back in front for good.
Shelley Looney, a two-time Olympic hockey medalist, is joining the Buffalo Bisons association as its full-time Hockey Director, according to an announcement released by Bisons team president Barney Walsh. According to Walsh, Looney will oversee all coaches while taking on the primary responsibility of developing the skills curriculum at each level, from the Chucksters to the Midgets, utilizing USA Hockey’s American Development Model (ADM) as appropriate. Looney served most recently as the Girls & Women’s Hockey Director for the New Jersey Colonials program, where she served for seven years. She has also worked
Unfortunately for the Stars, their fiercely fought run came to an end in the semifinals with an 8-3 loss to eventual second-place finishers Keweenaw. The Stars finished fourth in the tournament. Elsewhere, the Stars program enjoyed success in Brockport, as the PeeWee MOHL squad claimed the championship trophy at the David Bigelow Tournament, defeating the Perinton Blades in the title game. The
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Stars’ game-tying and go-ahead goals were both in shorthanded situations, with Jake Sweeney scoring the winner. The Stars’ Bantam MOHL also took home hardware, winning at the Rock ‘n Roll Tournament in Cleveland with a 3-0 championship game victory over the Michigan-based Petoskey Northmen. The team was preparing at press time to play in the Pepsi Tournament at month’s end.
Canandaigua Knights The Knights’ 14U girls program enjoyed a late-season tournament win, taking the first Marching into Spring girls tournament at GCCC. The Knights hosted Saranac Lake, Camillus-based Central NY and the Kanata (Ont.) Crusaders, with Canandaigua topping Camillus in the title game, 3-0.
Cazenovia Park House and MOHL registrations got underway earlier this month. The MOHL program will look ahead to the 2014-15 season as it brings a new working partnership with the HARBORCenter in downtown Buffalo. The premier training program and additional training offered at the Buffalo Sabres’ forthcoming facility will come at no additional cost to Caz Park families.
Chautauqua County Junior hockey is coming back to the Jamestown Savings Bank Arena next season, taking the place of the former Ironmen, who ceased operations there at the end of the 2012-13 season. The new franchise’s owners, Jamestown Area Hockey Associates (JAHA) LLC left it to the public to name their new team, which will compete in the North American Tier III Hockey League, or NA3HL. Introducing… the Southern Tier Xpress. It’s the name chosen by JAHA, a name forwarded by contest winner Bud Tomassi, a Jamestown resident who serves as the Coaching Coordinator for the Chautauqua County Youth Hockey Association. “It blew my mind when my submission was picked,” said Tomassi in a prepared news release. “My thought was in order to help grow the sport and the new team within this part of Western New York and Northwest Pennsylvania, the name should be identified more with the geographical area rather than just Jamestown proper. “The Xpress links us back to the days of the railroad, the Gateway Train Station on Second Street and the economic importance both once had to our area. Second, it associates itself with the I-86 corridor (Southern Tier Expressway) and the economic importance it serves today to the Allegheny Plateau region.” The Xpress will also incorporate a pair of youth feeder teams in the U14 and U16 divisions. Tryouts for those teams were held the week immediately after Easter. Tryouts for the junior team, meanwhile, will be held May 16-18 at Jamestown Savings Bank Arena.
Around The Associations
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Clarence Mustangs
Southtowns Stars
Tri-County
The Mustangs organization celebrated its first-ever state championship, won by the 18U team in a five-game sweep of all opponents. It was a sense of ‘mission accomplished’ for the Mustangs, who fell in the state semifinals the previous season.
The Southtowns Stars Amateur Hockey Association (STSAHA) was still in search of goalies for the Squirt and PeeWee travel teams in early April. Coaches were also sought. Interested families or coaching candidates were encouraged to contact Jeff Leemer at travel@southtownsstars.com.
Cameron Dony was recently honored with the Tyler Putnam award at the inaugural Tyler Putnam Awards Banquet. The award is given to hockey players throughout the nation who, according to organizers, exhibit an extraordinary love for the game and achieve so much more than just excellence and love for the game of hockey. On the ice, the Midget team defeated Scottsville, 6-3, to win their division’s championship at the Rock ‘n Roll Tournament in Cleveland.
That, of course, punched Clarence’s ticket to the USA Hockey Nationals, where the Mustangs won their opening game over Team Ohio, 3-2, in a shootout. Matt Paonessa and John Delaney scored in regulation for Clarence, and then delivered with goals in the shootout. Goalie Pete Chopra preserved the Mustangs’ win. Clarence again found itself in a shootout in their second game, but this time it was Colorado’s Littleton Hawks who emerged the winner in the extra session, 3-2. Delaney and Nick Godin put the team ahead, 2-0, but the Hawks erased that lead to force overtime and eventually got the win in the shootout. Clarence’s first-ever run at the Nationals ended in the third game, a 6-1 loss to WPA Mid-State. Godin scored a third-period power play goal for Clarence’s only goal.
On the ice, the 16U-AA Travel team emerged as champions at the Tonawanda Lightning Tournament at Brighton Rink in the Town of Tonawanda. The title game came down to a 1-0 shootout decision. Eric Roetzer and T.J. Maloney both scored for Southtowns, while goalie Trevor Krzemien stopped all the shots he faced to preserve the win. Members of the 16U team include: Jared DePerio, Jason Filipski, Jack Flynn, Will Flynn, Ben Greiner, Richard Karalus, Kyle Kostek, Trevor Krzemien, Jon Lavis, TJ Maloney, Tom Marren, Robb Finn, Josh Riemer, Eric Roetzer, Mick Weimer, Zach Weimer, Zach Biasillo, Coach Mike Weimer, Coach Brian Riemer, Coach Dave Krzemien and Manager Dan Marren.
Webster Hockey The Webster Youth Hockey Association, during the recent Boulter Tournament, awarded Salvatore Latore the Grant Lintala Sportsmanship award. Latore has been playing hockey for five years and, according to coach Bradley Bulger, he always shows up to play with a smile, determination and always demonstrates sportsmanship. The award is named in fond memory of Grant Lintala, a member of the Webster Youth Hockey Association who, while playing in the program’s PeeWee division, died suddenly in 2002 of complications from a rare form of strep.
presents the
Gary Hill Memorial Thanksgiving Day Tournament & the Patriots Day Tournament. House registration will be available June 2014. Instructional, mites (ADM ), squirts, peewee and bantam divisions. Our rates are among the most affordable in WNY. For more information please visit:
www.jrpurpleeagles.com WNYHockeyReport.com
Men’s Collegiate
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Men’s College Hockey Report by Warren Kozireski Warren@wnyhockeyreport.com
CANISIUS The Golden Griffins extended defense of their 2013 Atlantic Hockey championship all the way to the final game before falling to Robert Morris 7-4 in
the final. “Too many things were going against us and we couldn’t answer all of them,” said head coach Dave Smith after the final. “We left nothing on the table; we put it all out there, but we just couldn’t get it done.” Forward Ralph Cuddemi was named to the AllTournament Team as were defenseman Chris Rumble and Doug Jessey. Kyle Gibbons has signed a professional contract with the Toledo Walleye of the ECHL. During his four-year career, Gibbons amassed 130 points, 57 goals, 73 assists and 19 power-play tallies at Canisius. He ranked fourth in the program’s Division I record in career points and second in career goals. Defenseman Ben Danford signed a contract with the Manchester Monarchs of the AHL after leading all Canisius defensemen in scoring in each of his four seasons. Danford never missed a single game in his career, playing in all 158 contests—the longest streak in school history and the 13th-longest in NCAA history. He accumulated 84 points on 10 goals and 74 assists during his career. The 74 assists are the most in the
program’s history by a defender, while his 84 points rank second in the school’s record book. Goaltender Tony Capobianco and defenseman Duncan McKellar both signed with Elmira of the EJHL. Capobianco leaves after setting most of the major goaltending records in school history while McKellar had four goals and 22 assists over his 88 game college career.
NIAGARA After advancing the Atlantic Hockey Association final four for the third consecutive season, but their season ended with a 5-4 overtime loss to Robert Morris in the semi-finals despite two goals from Hugo Turcotte and three assists by Matt Williams. “Sometimes they’re never pretty in overtime,” said head coach Dave Burkholder after the loss. “It was just a fluky bounce that went off of one of our players helmets in front of the net and ended up on the tape of a player wearing a white jersey.” Defenseman Kevin Ryan (Eden) signed a contract with the South Carolina Stingrays of the East Coast Hockey League. Ryan suited up for 147 games at Niagara, including 132 consecutive starts, spanning all of the last two seasons and the final 33 games of his freshman campaign. He wrapped up his career at Niagara with seven goals and 50 assists for 57 points. Defenseman Matt Williams has signed a contract with the Brampton Beast of the Central Hockey League. Williams finished his career with eight goals and 34 assists in 128 games with a career-high in goals (3), assists (13) and points (16) this past season.
Forward Ryan Rashid signed with Elmira in the ECHL after collecting 38 goals and 88 points in his Niagara career. Center Patrick Divjak signed with Rapid City of the Central Hockey League. He finished with 77 points on 21 goals and 56 assists.
RIT Defenseman Nolan Decoteaux has signed a professional contract to play with Gwinnett of the ECHL. The senior played in 139 career games on the blueline, recording 12 goals and 22 assists for 34 points, along with 187 penalty minutes.
GENESEO The Knights went on a two-week roller coaster ride at the end of the season. In the SUNYAC championship game against Oswego, they overcame a 5-1 deficit only to lose with just 29 seconds left in regulation. Thinking they were eliminated from the NCAA tournament, they instead receive an at-large bid, defeat Nichols and Norwich (both 3-2 affairs) to advance to their first final four before falling to eventual champion St. Norbert in the semi-finals 6-2. “We’ll take it,” said head coach Chris Schultz of the Norwich victory. “For the first 20 minutes we played with fear…but the guys came through when it counted. Everyone talks about the strengths of different conferences and there is a case to be made for three or four, but our conference (SUNYAC) is as strong as anybody. Having two teams (Oswego the other) in the final four is a great accomplishment for our league.” (Continued on page 15)
Coming Soon! Lockport Express is a Junior A team that will play in the Northern States Hockey League. Our home rink will be the Brand New Lockport Ice Arena in Lockport, NY. The League is a Junior A league that is entering its 3rd season and has doubled in size since its inception. Our team will have full access to the rink performance center and a full workout regimen will be provided to the players.
Rookie Camps being held as follows and are only $10.00 per skater each date: • May 4th at 6pm at Dwyer Arena on the Niagara University Campus • May 10th at 5pm at North Towns Center in Amherst
Steve Bueme, Owner/President • Frank Vecchio, Head Coach/GM (716) 863-1459 fvecchio@commercialcollection.com David Kasperek, Assoc Head Coach/Skills Coach (716) 868-5312 tsa.hockey@yahoo.com Anthony Micucci, Goaltending Coach (716) 812-3923 micuccia@aol.com • Matthew Barnaby, Sr. Hockey Advisor
www.LockportExpress.com WNYHockeyReport.com
Rochester Americans
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Rochester Americans Report by Warren Kozireski Warren@wnyhockeyreport.com Dane Jackson was inducted into the Amerks Hall of Fame in 2013 after playing part or all of five seasons with the team including as captain of the 1996 Calder Cup championship. He is now in his eighth season as assistant coach with his alma mater—the University of North Dakota—working primarily with the forwards and penalty killing unit, which has consistently ranked among the best in their conference and among NCAA Division I teams. This year he helped North Dakota to the Frozen Four in Philadelphia for the fourth time in his coaching career there. They lost to the University of Minnesota in the national semi-finals 2-1 on a goal with .6 seconds remaining in regulation. “We did get fortunate to get into the tournament (granted the last at-large berth), but we played really well the second half of the year,” said Jackson outside the locker room the day prior to the loss. “Our record is as good as any of the teams if you look at our last 25 games or so. “I’ve been in a lot of those meetings where guys say the right things, but it’s a whole other thing to follow through and do them, accept a role and play hard and guys have really bought in to that the second half. “It was just like that 1995-96 season Rochester when we had a difficult first half and we had one of those meetings to figure out what everybody’s role was and what we needed to do to be successful.”
environment to coach in and we’re in charge of the whole process so we recruit who we want and coach them the way we want, so there are no excuses if you don’t win. “I love the level with players and their being receptive to learning. It’s a pure coaching environment and a lot of fun.”
NEWS & NOTES:
Dane Jackson, 2013 Amerks Hall Of Fame Inductee, is now in his eighth season as assistance coach of his alma mater - University of North Dakota. The soon-to-be 44 year old was a third round draft pick by Vancouver in the 1988 entry draft and played with Canuck affiliates in Hamilton and Syracuse prior to signing a free agent contract with Buffalo in 1995. He moved into coaching when his professional career ended in 2003 and moved behind the bench as an assistant coach with Manchester in the AHL, then general manager and head coach with Adirondack in the United Hockey League in 2005 before heading the Grand Forks, North Dakota in 2006. “I never really thought I would be a coach, but I always loved being a part of it, the game and the camaraderie and competition. So looking back maybe it was a natural fit, but I sure have enjoyed it. It’s a great
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• The team rallied late to earn the seventh seed in the Western Conference for the AHL playoffs and a bestof-five first round series with the Chicago Wolves (St. Louis affiliate) and the opening two games on home ice. They have been swept in the best-of-five first round in each of the last two seasons and didn’t make the postseason in 2011, so last won a playoff game in 2010. • The team added veteran defenseman and Schenectady native Nick Petracki on loan via Worcester after Drew Bagnall was lost for the season to shoulder surgery. • Sanborn native and Detroit draft pick Tom McCollum stood among the top five in the AHL in goals against for Grand Rapids. Nathan Lieuwen was also among the top ten prior to his recall to Buffalo and injury. • Luke Adam tied for eighth in the league in goals during the regular season and second in the league in power play goals behind Zach Boychuk of Charlotte despite ten fewer games. • Phil Varone was eighth in assists and tied for seventh in power play assists while Nathan Lieuwen was eighth in goals against and fourth in save percentage.
Women’s Hockey
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Women’s Hockey by Janet Schultz Janet@wnyhockeyreport.com Women’s hockey has come to a close for this season with high school championships done, NYS and USA Hockey championships completed and awards ceremonies finishing up. Congratulations to WNYGVIH’s Kenmore on winning both the Section VI and WNYGVIH League championships and doing us proud once again at the NYS High School Championships. While they may have lost at States, the tournament ended with Potsdam and Skaneateles sharing the 2014 trophy. On to the New York State Championships, the girls of WNY did well. At Tier I: 12U: Syracuse beat the Buffalo Bisons. 14U: The Buffalo Regals went on to the Nationals after beating Syracuse 2-1. 16U: The Buffalo Regals faced a three-way tie with the Buffalo Bisons and Syracuse Nationals. In the end the officials went to the third/fourth level of decisionmaking and the Regals with 3 points moved on to the Nationals. 19U: NSA didn’t come to the States so the Buffalo Bisons moved on to the Nationals. At Tier II: 12U: Potsdam beat Hamburg 4-0 in the Championship game. There are no Nationals at 12U level in either Tier I or Tier II. 14U: With 12 overtimes West Seneca moved on to the Championship round where they lost to CNY. Bri Keppner scored with 1:32 left in the 12th overtime to take West Seneca to the championship game. 16U: A 3-1 win over Monroe put Potsdam into the Nationals. 19U: The Buffalo Bisons lost to Chazy in two overtimes; however the Stars go to the Nationals as Amherst, as the host, has no 19U team. The Girl’s Tier I USA Nationals were held in Marlborough, Massachusetts, as well as the Women’s Senior Championships. At Tier I in Massachusetts the Buffalo Regals 14U team had a 1-3-0 record heading into bracket play. They lost to Chicago 5-1 ending their run. Lindsay Browning placed 7th Nationally in the top 8 goalies with a .936 save %. The Buffalo Regals 16U team went into bracket play with a 2-1 record and lost to the East Coast Wizards. Amber Dubill placed fifth in the top 8 goalies of the tournament with a .946 sv%. At 19U the Buffalo Bisons lost 4-3 to Honeybaked taking fourth place in the Nationals. Annika Zalewski leads the scorers with 3 goals and 7 assists for 10 points; Madison Welch placed fifth in goaltending with a .958 sv%. In Amherst at Tier II Amherst’s 14U team lost all three games. Amherst’s 16U team lost to Marquette in bracket play, ending the tournament with a 1-3-0 record. Mary Crumlish placed 7th in the nation in goaltending with a .918 sv%.
Amherst 16U girls in action. The Buffalo Stars beat Steel City and Portland before losing to Alaska. Going into bracket play they beat Princeton 3-2 and then lost to Keweenaw 8-3 and took 3rd place in the USA Nationals. Alanna Herne placed first in scoring with 6 goals and 5 assists for 11 points.
Alanna Herne led all scorers with 6 goals and 5 assists in helping the Buffalo Stars to a 3rd place finish in the US Nationals. The Rochester Edge Senior C women beat the Sting 11-0; Chicago 3-0, LA 10-0 and the Blue J’s 4-2 before having Tri-City beat them 2-1. Melissa Hall, Jessica Gagliano, Alyssa Henkel were named to the Top Ten Scoring list in the nation and Goaltenders Alex Talbot and Jennifer Hicks were in the Top Ten Goalies. Tri-City won the championship.
RIT
After another historic season with the Tigers, Head Coach Scott McDonald has signed a four-year contract extension. McDonald completed his eight season behind the Tiger’s bench, leading them to their first CHA Championship in their second year as a Division I program.
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Last season the Tigers won their last seven games and finished with a 20-15-3 record, won four games against nationally-ranked opponents and finished the year receiving votes in both the USCHO.com and USA Today/USA Hockey Magazine national polls. RIT was not eligible for NCAA Tournament due to a two-year probationary period from moving from DIII to DI. In 2011-12 McDonald led the Tigers to their first NCAA DIII Women’s Ice Hockey Championship T o u r n a m e n t appearance in school history, setting a DIII record with 28 win. They finished that season with a 28-1-1 mark. McDonald has an eight-year overall record of 171-53-18 and is the DIII allRIT Head Coach Scott time leader with a .835 McDonald has signed a fourwinning percentage. He year contract extension. earned his 100th win at RIT on January 29, 2011 vs Buffalo State Bengals. McDonald, a native of Oakville, Ontario, is the only person in NCAA history to play at the DI and III levels and coach at both divisions on both men’s and women’s sides. He played defense for the Niagara University Purple Eagles as part of the schools’s inaugural freshman and first graduating class as a DI program. He served as an assistant coach at Utica College before moving to RIT as an assistant coach from 2003-06. The honors keep coming for Goaltender Ali Binnington as they was named the 201314 All-United States College Hockey Online (USCHO) Third Team. She is the first RIT player to earn this prestigious honor since the team moved to DI in 2012. Binnington had a tremendous year as she ended her season by stopping a careerhigh 62 shots in the RIT goaltender Ali championship game, Binnington named 2013-14 2-1 in double overtime All-United States College over Mercyhurst. She Hockey Online Third Team. was named the CHA Tournament MVP and named to the All-Tournament Team.
Niagara University In her first season as Head Coach, Rachel Hauser ends on a positive note. “It was a tough year statistically (1-11-0),” said Hauser, “but we used each time we stepped on the ice as an opportunity to learn and grow as a group.” “It is the tough times in which you learn the most about a team as a whole,” she continued. “These players
Women’s Hockey left it all out on the ice with every shift, each period and in all the games they played.” Addison Marino, Batavia, is the only player that graduates this season. She has been with the program for four years and served as Captain this season. In her last game she scored a goal from the point. Addison graduates from the College of Education with a degree in TESOL and concentration in English.
Cazenovia Announces 12UTB Head Coach Chris Malicki has announced plans for Cazenovia’s 12U travel-bound team. They will play “Q” games under the Western Section of the GLGHL and have scheduled tournaments which include the Fire and Ice in Rochester, a November tournament in Canada, a holiday tournament in Mississauga, a trip to the MLK tournament n Glens Falls, President’s Weekend in Albany and a Feb. 20 tournament in the new HarborCenter. Malicki will be holding a three-day pre-season training camp in late August and season-long dryland training will begin in mid-July. The team will also have a holiday party, camping trip and hold fundraisers. For more information contact Coach Malicki at 9973130 or go to www.cazhockey.com
Girl Scouts and Hockey Come Together Madeline Stoklosa has skated to championships with Monsignor Martin’s Girls Varsity Ice Hockey League. Now she is working on the top award in Girl Scouts and using hockey to do it. Stoklosa is hosting a Try Hockey for Free: Girls Hockey Clinic on Saturday, April 12 from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. at Holiday Twin Rinks in Cheektowaga. The Girl Scout Gold Award is given to those Scouts who have shown their leadership ability and provided a service project that benefits the community. Requirements include identifying an issue, researching it, developing a plan to address the issue and implementing and evaluating it. “I want to grow girl’s hockey,” said Stoklosa of her project. “I want this day to have a lasting effect on hockey and on the girl’s who come to try out. I’m hoping they will play hockey!” Stokolosa has had the ice time donated and will have access to one of the hockey equipment trailers that are owned by the New York State Amateur Hockey Association. “We can take 40 skaters, with or without experience,” she continued. “We will break them into groups by their ability. “Anyone with equipment should bring their own,” she says. “In addition we will have an off-ice session and explain the sport of hockey, its levels and the differences between boys and girls hockey,” she explained. Stoklosa is setting up different levels and then stations where the participants will take part in skating, shooting passing and stick handling. The Beginners Clinic will be run by former D1 (Niagara University) player and current head coach for the Monsignor Martin Team, Linda Mroz and the Buffalo Stars Girl’s Director and Buffalo Stars 16U and 19U Coach Dawn Robinson. Following the ice session there will be a reception with light refreshments and an off-ice presentation about girl’s hockey in Western New York. They will discuss where to go from here, various organizations
and differences between house and travel and what’s for girl’s beyond those levels. Stoklosa began her ice hockey career with the Buffalo Regals House team when she was 11 years old. “My Dad thinks I started late,” said Stoklosa. She then moved to West Seneca’s Travel for two years and then to the Buffalo Stars where she played with the 16U team and currently plays for the 19U team. The Mt. Mercy Academy Junior will have a chance at a National Championship when the Buffalo Stars 19U team makes an appearance at the USA Nationals in Amherst the first weekend in April. She also plays Varsity Soccer for her high school and is involved with student government, volunteers for the Relay for Life and is a member of the Buffalo Ski Club. “I find hockey thrilling,” said Stoklosa. “I meet new people and my family plays hockey.” One of her most thrilling moments was scoring a goal in the semi-finals against Orchard Park/Frontier Varsity Girls and going 20-0 on the season. “It was unbelievable,” said Stoklosa. “I’ve had great coaches.” The event is sponsored by Holiday Twin Rinks and Girl Scouts of WNY. For information contact Stoklosa at mstoklosa15@mtmercy.org or call (716) 253-4457.
WNYVIH Orchard Park/Frontier has team up with Dick’s Sporting Goods in order to raise funds for their 2014-15 year. Orchard Park/Frontier is one of the teams that have NO funding from their school district and run strictly on donations and money earned through fundraising. The team has been accepted by Dick’s Sporting Goods Sports Matters Program. This is for teams such as OP/Frontier that have no funding from their districts. They must raise half of their budget (approximately $7,800) and Dick’s will match that amount through their “crowd funding” platform. The time period for donating is April 17 through May 23. A website will be set up for donors to use. As soon as the link is active, it will be noted on WNY Hockey Report’s Website, NY Hockey Online’s website and Facebook pages.
She Stands Out
Abilgail Weltman was easy to spot at the 2014 Putnam Awards. She was the only girl to receive the prestigious award given in memory of a young hockey player who died from meningococcemia. Tyler Putnam dreamed of playing for his high school hockey team, The Irondequoit Eagles and then Junior Hockey, DI hockey and eventually the NHL. Tyler was known for his high energy, incredible work ethic and desire to achieve his goals. The award program recognizes those players who exemplify Tyler’s lifestyle and love of ice hockey. Abilgail is 12 years old and has played hockey since she was 5. The Rochester Edge 12UNTB Defenseman began her hockey career when she took to the ice at Village Sports with ice skating lessons. While figure skating was okay she found her true passion was hockey. She headed off to the Perinton boys team and eventually moved to girl’s ice hockey. Her biggest memory is getting her first goal with her Mite team, wearing a goaltender’s jersey because that’s all there was for her to wear. She follows the NHL and her favorite team is the Buffalo Sabres with her favorite player former Sabre Thomas Vanek. Abilgail is the daughter of Kris and Brian and she has two brothers, Gillian and Andrew. Andrew plays for the Rochester Youth Hockey Association.
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Area Notes: …Congratulations to Abbey Cleary whose, St. Mary’s Shattuck team had a great showing in the USA Hockey Nationals. They took the championship after beating Mid-Fairfield Stars. Abbey had 3 shots on goal and dumped each one in and had 2 assists for a 5 point record in the tournament. Share all your girl’s hockey news with me by emailing Janet@nyhockeyonline.com
Men’s College Hockey Report (Continued from page 12)
Senior Zachary Vit was named a CCM Division II-III Men’s Ice Hockey First-Team All-American by the American Hockey Coach’s Association (AHCA). The Knights’ top goal scorer is the program’s tenth All-American and first since Danny Scagnelli landed third-team honors in 2011. Vit also becomes the Knights’ fifth first-team All-American and first since current assistant coach Mitch Stephens achieved the feat in 2007.
BUFFALO STATE Senior goaltender Kevin Carr became just the second Bengal to take All-America honors when he earned third team status from the American Hockey Coaches Association of America (AHCA). Carr finished his career with his fourthconsecutive All-SUNYAC season, garnering first team honors for the second time. He appeared in every game for the Bengals this season and set a school record with a .929 save percentage and posted a 2.57 goals against average. He leaves after setting a total of ten school records, including the career marks for saves (3,225), save percentage (.921), wins (45) and shutouts (9). Todd Nowicki was Buffalo State’s only other All-American when he grabbed second team honors in 2001-02 after scoring 23 goals and 46 points. Carr is currently playing professionally for the Peoria Rivermen of the Southern Professional Hockey League. Forward Mike Zanella also signed a professional contract and is with Fayetteville of the SPHL.
NAZARETH Senior defenseman Jordan Ciccarello signed a professional contract with the Elmira Jackals of the East Coast Hockey League. He played two seasons for the Golden Flyers after transferring from Division I Sacred Heart and had seven goals and 14 assists in 43 games.
ECC The Kats have announced that the new Harbor Center will be their new home beginning with the 2014-15 campaign.
Buffalo Jr Sabres
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Jr. Sabres: By George(town), the season ends by Michael Mroziak Michael@wnyhockeyreport.com
After a second-round exit in the 2013 Ontario Junior Hockey League playoffs, there were questions as to how well and how far the Buffalo Junior Sabres 2013-14 edition Junior A team would respond. They again clinched the OJHL West Division in the final week of the regular season. They again advanced beyond the first round of the playoffs. They also again saw their season end in the second round. Buffalo was tested by the Mississauga Chargers in the opening series and the Jr. Sabres found it within themselves to overcome the challenge. They unfortunately ran into a Georgetown Raiders squad that picked the right time to get on a roll, late in the season. After handling the Milton Icehawks in a first-round sweep, the Raiders and Jr. Sabres opened the second round on the ice at First Niagara Center. Buffalo took Game One, 4-1. After Liam Clare put the Raiders ahead 1-0, Darren McCormick, Pat Egan, Michael Ederer and Dylan Howatt (empty net) scored four unanswered goals. It looked like they’d be in good shape to withstand
their latest opponent. Again, though, Georgetown was playing some of its best hockey late in the season and got back on track with Game Two, defeating Buffalo 2-1. It was the first of four straight wins by the Raiders, who ended Buffalo’s season with a series-clinching 5-1 win in Game Five at the Northtown Center at Amherst on March 22. Two of Buffalo’s top five playoff scorers skated their final games in a Jr. Sabres uniform. Nolan Sheeran, who lead the team with four goals and seven assists in 11 postseason games, is bound for Canisius College in the fall. So, too, is team captain Ryan Schmelzer, who was one of three players tied for second in playoff scoring with 10 points (three goals, seven assists by Schmelzer in 11 games). Egan and Ederer, who also had 10 points in the postseason (Egan led in goals with six while Ederer was second-best with five goals) are expected to be key returnees in the 2014-15 season. Also eligible for one more year of junior is Tim Kielich, who just completed his third season with Buffalo and was tied for fifth in postseason scoring with four goals and three assists. Other veterans on their way out, though, include Max Mikowski, who ages out and enrolls at Rochester Institute of Technology in the fall; Nick DeSimone, who enrolls at NCAA National Champions Union; and goaltender Joseph Pianta, who was acquired last offseason from Toronto Lakeshore but ages out. While fellow netminder Brandon Mueller did not see
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any playoff action, he demonstrated his ability to play at the Junior A level in the regular season, including a nomination for the league’s Goalie of the Month back in October (he finished as the runner-up in voting). The goaltending position appears to be Mueller’s to hold heading into tryouts, which were scheduled for late April.
Bowman Cup Representation
Three members of the 2013-14 Jr. A roster were rostered on Team Buffalo’s Junior/Prep squad at the Scotty Bowman Showcase, held back on April 9 at First Niagara Center and hosted by the Buffalo Sabres. Representing Buffalo in this division were Michael Ederer, Josh Gabriel and Dennis Gilbert. Two of the three are already verbally committed to colleges. Ederer is tentatively slated for St. Lawrence University after next season, while Dennis Gilbert is verbally committed to Niagara University, also beginning in 2015. Gabriel scored the goal which lifted Team Buffalo over Team Rochester in overtime, 4-3. He also assisted on the game-tying goal. Ederer also picked up an assist in regulation.
Top Shelf Training
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Youth Hockey Training By Mike Smietana info@topshelfhockey.us There has been plenty of controversy and information shot out into the public about what types of training are good for youth hockey players. This includes inseason and off-season programs. Some parents and coaches think that off season training is too much for a kid. Other parents think that they only on ice training is the way to go. Being a certified personal trainer through the Aerobics and Fitness Association of America and having coached hockey players internationally and in the North America I would like to provide some much needed information on the matter. Current guidelines for the American College of Sports Medicine recommends for children are that School-age youth need to participate in 60 minutes or more of moderate to vigorous physical activity each day. Exercise should be developmentally appropriate, enjoyable and safe. While children have traditionally been encouraged to participate in aerobic activities such as swimming and bicycling, a compelling body of evidence indicates that strength training can also be a safe and effective method of exercise for children, provided that appropriate guidelines are followed. There are also many myths floating around from many parents and coaches that claim that training is not good for children. This belief that strength training is unsafe for children is not reliable. According to documented research by ACSM, the risks associated with strength
training are not greater than other sports and activities in which children regularly participate. Also, there is no current evidence to indicate a decrease in stature in children who regularly strength train in a supervised environment with qualified instruction. A growth plate fracture has not been reported in any research study that was competently supervised and appropriately designed. Lastly, testosterone is not essential for achieving strength gains, as evidenced by women and elderly individuals who experience impressive gains in strength even though they have little testosterone.
However, strength training is not something that an unqualified person should prescribe to any youth. This type or any type of specialized conditioning requires qualified supervision, appropriate overload, gradual progression, and adequate recovery between exercise sessions. ACSM states that, when designing youth strength
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training programs it is important to remember that the goal of the program should not be limited to increasing muscle strength. Teaching youth about their bodies, promoting safe training procedures, and providing a stimulating program that gives participants a more positive attitude toward strength training and physical activity in general are equally important.
My personal thoughts about strength training for youth are that children should be assessed physically before given a training program. They should also be shown proper form and technique before they progress to more complicated exercises. The same applies for a cardio routine. The bottom line is that Youth athletes should not dive right into any program without proper supervision and instruction. With that said strength training as well as cardio training is something that every athletes needs to have as part of their athletic endeavors. Mike Smietana, A.S., PHYS EDU, C.P.T. Aerobics & Fitness Association of America is the owner of Top Shelf Training. www.topshelfhockey.us
Spring and Summer at the Iceplex
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4/16/14 4:53 PM
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Coming to Bill Gray’s Regional Iceplex This Summer! Sportopia Summer Camps are different than other camps. These camp programs are designed to keep kids ages 7 to 16 active and engaged throughout the day. Each camp has a variety of physical activities and features a “Sport of the Week”, focusing on introducing that sport and teaching the fundamentals needed to participate. • Ice Hockey • Soccer
2014 Camp will offer:
• Baseball • Basketball
• Lacrosse • All Sport Week
• Full & Half Summer • Packages Available
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ICEPLEX ADULT HOCKEY LEAGUE
Rochester’s Largest Adult Hockey League
SUMMER ICE HOCKEY SEASON Registration now open for the summer season. The IAHL is offering new league nights and pick up hockey on Monday nights.
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High Performance Perspective
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The High Performance Perspective by Steve Thomson steve@hphd.us Players and parents come to me with hopes of playing hockey at a higher level. Some want to get more ice time on their current team, or make the transition from house hockey to travel; or even high school to junior hockey. Unfortunately for most players / parents, their path does not match their goals. Just like in school, you do your general core courses and then you choose specialized courses. Plan now to get the most hockey improvement this summer!
1. Camps and Clinics Hockey camps and clinics provide a group experience and ice time. When selecting a hockey camp or clinic, look for one with a good reputation, consistent curriculum, and a low player to teaching instructor ratio. Hockey camps will provide a good social experience and fun environment for all players. With the large number participants’ 30-40 players there will be a varying skill level and general skills overview with limited personal attention for your player.
2. Private / Semi Private and Small Group Training Individual attention or small groups offer players a greater ability to quickly learn and execute new skills. Logically, if your child was having trouble or wanted to boost their grades in their math class of 20 students; you would enlist the assistance of a private tutor for a 1 on 1, 2 on 1 or small group specialized assistance.
Most players take advantage of a year round hockey training center like HPHD with individual and small group training that revolves around the players / parent’s daily schedule that is in the affordable range of the hockey families’ budget.
3. Physical Preparation In addition to being in the ice, players that want to be the best they can, need to be working off the ice as well. It is important that players prepare their bodies physically. Be active in other sports! Your body learns to move better and the body basics like stance, motion, and swing are all transferable skills between sports. It is also very effective for players to get involved in general fitness training. Activities done at home for players to strengthen their bodies like running, cycling, push ups, abdominal crunches, and lunges are all good exercises to. Grab a DVD or get on YouTube and start working out. For the older players 14+, it is beneficial to join a general fitness facility such as Catalyst Fitness. Along with general fitness, it is imperative that players train in a hockey specific fashion. Hockey players need focus on areas for speed, quickness and agility, flexibility, and functional movement. For those players with targeted specific goals or to make sure your getting the most out of your work outs look to a personal trainer such as FITT. Off the ice work outs give every player that extra strength they need to get to the next level.
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4. Hockey Homework Hockey homework can be anything or any part of your game that you can do at home. If it’s scoring goals, then your homework would be shooting pucks in your driveway or backyard. If its stick handling then your homework is to stick handle a golf ball or pucks. There are many ways to improve your game by practicing around the house; all it takes is a little creativity.
5. Nutrition Bad gas in your car makes your car run bad! Nutrition is very important to every player, every person for that matter. You don’t need a PHD to eat healthy. For information you can visit www.usfoodguide.com. Every player needs to make sure they consume the proper amount of calories daily are properly hydrated (water, water and more water). Especially in season players should eat lean proteins, whole wheat breads and pastas, and eat fruits and vegetables. For your players to have greater success in reaching their goals, make sure your path leads you there. I will be expanding on these in future issues. Check out online and leave a comment at www.wnyhockeyreport. com and www.HPHD.us Steve Thomson HPHD Staff writer High Performance Hockey Development (HPHD) Training Center offers a variety of year round programs to accelerate the hockey development of players, teams and coaches in Western New York. Visit www.hphd.us Sources: www.catalystfitnessbuffalo.com gofitt@hotmail.com
Rochester Jr Americans
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Rochester Jr Americans Macdonald Named USPHL Elite Coach of the Year
best scoring team. The defense and goaltending also played stellar, allowing the second fewest goals in the Empire Division. The team has also set a mark for wins in the history of the Rochester Empire program.
goals scored in the regular season, 36 ahead of the second best scoring team. Owen’s strong play helped lead the Empire team to a Northern Conference title with a 36-3-0-1 record.
Fenton Having All-American Season
Coach Craig Macdonald Rochester Junior Americans Elite team head coach Craig Macdonald has been named the United State Premier Hockey League Elite Division Coach of the Year for the 2013-2014 season. Macdonald led the Americans to the top record in the Elite Division during the regular season with a 36-4-11 record. The Elite had not been defeated by a division opponent since December 21st, a streak of 17 straight victories. The USPHL Coach of the year award was voted on by fellow coaches throughout the USPHL. “It’s a huge honor to be recognized by the other coaches in our league,” said Macdonald. “We had a great year and I’m proud of what we accomplished as a team.” The 36 wins were a franchise record for the Junior Americans program and continued an upward trend of improving by 12 wins over the previous season’s team. Two years ago the team won 12 contests; last year’s squad won 24 games. Macdonald served as the assistant coach last season under Tony Maksymiu, who himself was awarded with Coach of the Year honors last season. The Milton, Ontario native starred collegiately for Elmira College before embarking on an eight year professional career in the UHL, CHL, and IHL. In his two years with the Junior Americans, Macdonald has helped place over a dozen players into NCAA Division I and III programs.
Elite and Empire Teams Clinch USPHL Regular Season Titles The Rochester Junior Americans Elite and Empire teams both clinched the regular season title for the Northern Conference in their respective divisions for 2013-2014. The Elite team finished the regular season with 74 points and a record of 36-4-1-1, while the Empire team finished with 73 points on a record of 36-3-0-1. Goaltender Will Massey led the way for the Elite team, which gave up a division low 80 goals. Massey led the Elite Division with a 1.89 goals against average and .932 save percentage. The offense has been a balanced attack, as 11 Junior Americans have scored over 10 goals. Conlan Keenan found the net 25 times this season and his 61 points placed fifth in the division. The Empire team used a balanced offensive and defensive attack to earn their spot at the top of the table. Their 255 goals scored were 36 ahead of the second
The last 12 months have been a dramatic change for Lawson Fenton. Fenton went from playing for the Stars (Buffalo) to developing into a star for the Rochester Junior Americans Empire team. He has transformed from having to find a way to keep the sport fun while suffering through a very disappointing season to enjoying his new surroundings while preparing for a playoff run in the USPHL. “We knew we had something special when we signed Lawson,” states head coach Jeff Kolcon. “We played the Buffalo Stars several times last year. We would put 20 or 30 shots on Lawson before we could break through. He was tough. What Lawson saw in one period last year in shots is equivalent to a whole game for most other teams.” Lawson posted a record of 0-16 for the Stars with a 6.43 goals against average. Despite those stats, Rochester did not hesitate to sign Fenton as soon as he was available. “Most coaches would stop any discussion about a player after looking at those numbers,” says Kolcon. “If we would not have watched him perform so strongly against our team, we would have laughed him off.” This year, the only one laughing is Fenton. He finished the regular season with an Empire Division best 25-20-1 record, along with a goals against average of 2.71 and a .908 save percentage, both solidly among the top ten overall. His solid play in net helped lead the Junior Americans to the Empire Northern Conference title with a 36-3-0-1 record. Last year, Fenton’s team was a nearly exact opposite with a 3-35 record. Associate head coach Tom McDonald thinks Fenton has played even stronger than his numbers would suggest. “We have played our entire roster in many games. Some of our younger players are still developing and that has affected some of Lawson’s numbers,” says McDonald. “But when you look at his performances against the top teams like Florida, Syracuse, and Boston, his stats are incredible.” Fenton and the Junior Americans have found great success this season despite having played the toughest schedule in the Empire Division. Only two of their games have been against non-playoff teams while nineteen games have been played against top six ranked teams in the division. The Junior Americans will be counting on Fenton to continue his strong play in the USPHL playoffs.
Owen Named USPHL Empire MVP Rochester Junior Americans Empire team forward Bryan Owen was named the MVP of the USPHL Empire Division for the 2013-2014 season. The Denver, CO native finished the regular season with a division-best 80 points, scoring 34 goals in 37 games and adding 46 assists. His 80 points helped lead the Junior Americans offense to a division leading 255
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Bryan Owen moves up ice. “Bryan has been a great addition to our program,” said Empire head coach Jeff Kolcon. “He was a spark for us offensively all season long. This award recognizes all the hard work he puts in day in and day out.”
Woodruff Named USPHL Empire Defensive Player of the Year Rochester Junior Americans Empire team defenseman Tanner Woodruff was named the USPHL Empire Division Defensive Player of the Year for the 2013-2014 season.
Tanner Woodruff - USPHL Empire Division Defensive Player of the year Woodruff had a productive season offensively and defensively for Rochester. The Webster, NY native finished the regular season with 40 points, second most by a defenseman in the USPHL Empire Division. His 37 assists helped the team lead the league in scoring, while his defensive play helped the team allow only 107 goals, the second fewest in the division. It was Woodruff’s second season on the Junior Americans Empire team, and he drastically improved in his second season. “Tanner put together a great season and is very deserving of this league-wide recognition,” said Empire head coach Jeff Kolcon. “He improved from a 9 point player to a 40 point player this season and was looked at as a leader on and off the ice by our players.”
Junior Hockey
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An Argument for Fall Tryouts by Jeff Kolcon Jeff@maksymum.com At first blush, fall tryouts make sense. The most obvious reason that fall tryouts work is that it gives separation from one season to the next. This is helpful in many ways. First, mental and physical fatigue of a long year are now eliminated from the process. Second, pigeonholing or stereotyping returning players may be lessened with 4-5 months separating the seasons. Third, recruiting could be a positive instead of a negative. Finally, a player can utilize a longer off season to actually improve. Let’s explore each of these areas.
Fresh mind and body Mental and physical fatigue is not only targeted at the player. Fatigue sets in with the coaching staff, the parents and the league administrators. Moving tryouts to the fall would actually allow for a refreshed and refocused group at all levels. Having a 4-5 month period of time to get excited again, to be eager to embrace the game and to be mentally and physically healthy would add to more robust and engaged tryouts.
year in and year out. Currently, having tryouts occur days after the season ends can have extreme effects on the lineup. If a player had a bad two weeks to end the year, a coach has that fresh on his mind. This pretty much means that a kid who played third line end ups being earmarked as a third line guy moving into the next season. There is little change from lineups from year to year. Pushing tryouts to the fall allows distance from a stereotype or profiling a coach may have towards a player. It gives players and coaches a chance to change mentally and physically. From the coaches perspective, the months in between allows for a full and thorough reflection of the past season and the ability to clear the mind. Since the majority of coaches end their season on a loss (there is only one champion), getting the distaste of losing out of your mouth takes time. Let’s face it, some players may have made mistakes that are memorable. Coaches need distance to get the ability to be objective.
Embrace Recruiting
Many think of the recruiting word as dysfunctional and negative. Done right, recruiting could convert the Western New York model into a streamlined and efficient process that is both logical and productive. Recruiting is dysfunctional when only legally available for the short period following nationals through the tryout week. For example, if nationals for a given age group end on the first Sunday in April and tryouts start the next Tuesday, how is any player, coach or Many youth coaches return to coach the same team parent truly going to explore all options? It is silly to even begin to believe that this system is efficient. It forces parents, players and coaches to stretch, bend or break the recruiting rules. It adds a timeline pressure. Eliminate the pressure of immediate recruiting and decisions and watch parents and players have the ability to build true honest relationships with coaches. At the junior level, although our tryout process is in the spring, we have had the luxury of building long term relationships with most of our recruits. Further, our rosters are not set in stone until August. We take our time on the last few Joshua Adimey, Leo Bax, Rocco Bonaffini, Patrick Brady, Ethan Breh, spots to insure a complete Jacob Buerger, Paul Cartone, Alec Cicero, Jack Gilbert, understanding of the Connor Hasley, Trevor Kuntar, Tyler Nasca, Chase Nicholson, marketplace. Allowing the Robert Nuchereno, Nickolas Pavicich, Joshua Phillips, Colby Seitz, recruiting process to occur Casey Severo, Joseph Visconte all summer leading into a fall tryout period would foster teams that have the right players for each level.
A Fair and Fresh Look at Players
Congratulations on being selected to the Bantam Minor and Bantam Major Teams
Bantam Minor
Bantam Major
Robert Baker, Phillip Barilla, Matthew Bevilacqua, Gabriel Blanchard, Angelo Cammilleri, Matthew Doyle, Joshua Graziano, Brandon Holland, Jacob Jakson, Ethan Kirbis, Daniel Mikolajczak, Cade Murnan-Mechor, Zachary Nazzarett, Trevor Peca, David Regan, Zachary Rehbaum, Jack Tucker, Jeffrey Walczak
@ Buffalo Jr. Sabres Official
@buffalojrsabres
www.buffalojuniorsabres.com
Improve yourself before tryouts As a kid, I looked forward to the offseason. I could not wait to improve my shot, get bigger and learn a few new moves. All of
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this was done in the anticipation of proving that I was better than the player I was the last time the coach saw me. I thrived on wanting to reinvent myself in the off season. In my world, it was similar to the unveiling of the new model car at the auto show. The months until tryouts were a huge motivational factor for me and my peers. We started to learn how to make our bodies stronger. Some that could afford it, went away to camps or worked with skating instructors. All of knew we needed to prepare for tryouts.
Why We Won’t See Fall Tryouts Hockey is a business. Regardless of how pure we would like to see the entire process, the reality is that money needs to be made to keep the wheels going. We no longer live in a world of community based rinks that open in November and close in March. Nor are we in a world where ice time is $50 per hour. The rink operated by community volunteers is extinct. The reality is many rinks are privately owned. Even if they are community owned, they are expected to be profitable. Extending ice sales into June and July allows rinks to stay afloat. Encouraging teams to start practicing in August is a product of rinks selling ice time. Most people think that the youth hockey calendar is built to mirror the NHL. The evolution is more to cater to ice sales. The length of the season insures the rink stays afloat. Over a decade ago USA Hockey became much more involved with the rink owners. The STAR program (Serving the American Rinks) is a big initiative. It is an offshoot of USA Hockey to work with rinks. When USA Hockey, right or wrong, made a conscious decision to side with rink owners, the game changed forever. Twelve month ice rink availability is a reality. Rinks ultimately want teams picked in the spring. First, it sells April Ice. Tryouts can fill all of April for a local rink. April, May and June are the obviously tough months for rinks to get ice sold. However, teams picked in the spring lead to coaches getting their team together to play spring hockey, skate a practice or two over the summer and play in tournaments. This is diminished if there is no organized leader leaning on players to participate. If coaches hang their skates up and forget about the game until October, rinks go out of business. That sphere of influence is needed to sell spring/summer ice. As much as USA Hockey preaches multiple sport athletes that focus on hockey seasonally, they are not in the position to sanction or limit spring teams and summer leagues. This would ultimately hurt their partner, the rink. We have a governing body that would like to see players take their skates off for several months. However, if they actually enforced this at any degree, it would cause a large percent of rinks to close ultimately shrinking the size of our sport. I am in favor of fall tryouts. I am also a realist. Many factors come into play for a change as radical as fall tryouts. As simple as it may seem at first glance, it would take a monumental shift in the business paradigm for this to be accomplished. We, as a sport, need to weigh the positives of many rinks in our market and the impact they have on the growth of the game against the convenience and practicality of fall tryouts. Although a great topic to debate, not one that I see making any majors shifts in the current model.
Rochester Youth Hockey
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Hockey Weekend! Bill Grays Iceplex and Rochester Youth Hockey teamed up to support USA Hockey’s Hockey Weekend Across America back in March. Over 50 young and eager first time hockey players participated. The Amerks Moose backed the program and was a big hit with kids. Both Bill Grays and Rochester Youth team up regularly during the season to host Try Hockey and “Taste of the Game” sessions including a recent girl’s event that was attended 52 young ladies.
2013-2014 Award Winners
Jerry Fries Memorial Award (School and Volunteer Work) – MATT METZ Ross Cutler Memorial Award (Adult Volunteer) – JOHN SPATORICO E.J. Villari Memorial Sportsmanship (Outstanding Team Leader) – ROB NAPPO In Memory of Patrick J. Moran Award (Service to Youth Hockey) – BILL CLINE Sportsmanship Awards
Mites – Derek Johnson & Gaeton Buczynski Pee-Wee Major – Mike Kuchey Bantam Minor – Garrett Miller Bantam Mixed – Connor Obrien Midget U 15 Gold – Alex Smith Midget U 15 Black – Martin Senger Midget U16tb – Rob Nappo Midget U18tb – Joe Piegat Midget U18ntb – Adam Herr
Peg Bakewell Memorial Award (Outstanding Team)
MIDGET U16 TB – WINS 34 LOSS 6 TIES 2 Nick Colan Mike McMahon Sam Cruver Matt Metz Evan Domiano Rob Nappo Kyle Fallon Tom Rymarczyk Brad Hejmanowski Griffin Spatarico Gage Holler Michal Swacha Nick Kindzia Garrett Varisco Dominic LoVallo Jeff Wawrzynek Tom Major Stephen Wisniewski Head Coach ............................... Bill Cline Asst. Coach................. Daryle Gronowski Asst. Coach................... Marv Pawlowski Manager ... ......................John Spatarico VP Of Hockey Operations ... Mark Major
Join The Bud Bakewell Bruins – Visit budbakewellhockey.com A family friendly organization, where the kids come first. WNYHockeyReport.com
Adam Page
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Adam Page... Gold Medalist by Randy Schultz Randy@wnyhockeyreport.com Adam Page sits on a chair in a room on the second floor of the Bud Bakewell Arena. A group of 16 boys and girls in hockey uniforms are seated in front of him. It is the first of two sessions that Page is taking part in. His presentation is part of the Sixth Annual Willie O’Ree Showcase weekend being held in Buffalo. A question and answer session is in progress. Page has just finished talking to the students about his recent Paralympics experience he had in Sochi, Russia. Several of the questions revolve around the gold medal that hangs from Page’s neck. Page was a member of the U.S. Paralympic Sled Hockey Team that won the gold medal at the 2014 Winter Games. It is an experience that the 22 year-old Lancaster native will not soon forget. “It’s amazing,” exclaimed Page. “The fact that it was my second gold medal in two straight Paralympics makes it even more special. “You never know if you are going to a part of another Paralympics or not. And being a part of history by being the only team to win back-to-back gold medals is really cool.” What made this Paralympics even more special was the fact that the gold medal game was televised on national television. “It was great to see how much attention has been given to us since our return to the U.S.,” said Page. “It was great 1 3/13/14 11:58 AM that ourWNYHockeyReport_Mar2014.pdf team could be a part of that national exposure. “It helped give more exposure to sled hockey as well as
the Paralympics. We’re hoping that it will grow even more. “Ever since I’ve got home, it has been non-stop. I’ve gotten calls of congratulations from many different people. “There was a huge crowd at the airport to greet us. It’s great to be a part of a great community like Buffalo and Western New York.” If there is one thing for certain with Page, Gold Medals never grows old.“I remember Vancouver (2010 Paralympics) like it was yesterday,” stated Page. There is no other feeling like it. “To have your National Anthem being sung and have your flag being raised, especially for the second time, no, it never gets old.” Page was born with Spina Bifida, a birth defect caused by the incomplete formation of the vertebrae. But he has overcome all of that and excelled in sled hockey. Being a part of the Willie O’Ree Showcase weekend was also special for Page. “I really enjoy talking and giving motivational speeches, especially to kids,” said Page. “I want to give back to others and this is one way of doing it. “I want to help kids realize that they have great opportunities that they can achieve. Being a veteran on the team and not know what the future might bring with hockey in the future, it’s very important for me to start giving back now.” Page posed for photo opportunities with each of the kids. In addition he let each of the kids touch and hold his gold medal. It was a moment that each player seemed to embrace, with each one commenting how heavy the medal was. Some kids even wondered if Page had bitten his medal. “No,” was the simple answer. “The medals can scratch very easily. “I saw that firsthand with some of my teammates.”
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U.S. Paralympic Sled Hockey Gold Medalist Adam Page delivering a motivation message to area youth players. What does the future hold for Page? “Hockey-wise, I want to continue to play hockey as long as I can,” responded Page. “I want to help younger guys to get the same opportunities that I had. “Hopefully when I get done with sled hockey I would like to get into coaching. Hockey has been a huge part of my life. I don’t know if I could ever give it up. “So coaching would be the best way to do it.” It is also “back to school” time for Page. “I plan on going back to Medaille College during the summer,” commented Page, who is majoring in Sports Management. “I would like to finish off my degree program. “With my major, it would be another way to stay in hockey. If not in coaching, then maybe in the front office.” Page’s future certainly looks bright.
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Tyler Putnam Awards
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Tyler Putnam Awards by Randy Schultz Randy@wnyhockeyreport.com Tyler Putnam was known for his high energy, incredible work ethic, and desire to achieve his goals. Unfortunately in July of 2011, Putnam’s hockey dreams ended when he died of an illness called “meningococcemia,” an infection that affects the bloodstream. Thanks to the efforts of Rob Sedia and the rest of the Tyler Putnam Awards Committee, Putnam’s memory lives on. On March 21 the First Annual Tyler Putnam Awards Ceremony was held in Rochester at The Whittier House. Seventeen young boys and girls were recognized at the dinner for their hard work and dedication as hockey players. Each of the players was presented with a plaque that had a golden hard hat attached to it. The hard hat has become a symbol of Putnam’s hard work and dedication to hockey. Putnam’s dream was to play for his high school hockey team, the Irondequoit Eagles, Junior Hockey, Division I Hockey and ultimately play the sport professionally. He was able to realize two of those dreams, having played for the Eagles as an eight and ninth grader and then with the Maksymum Junior team in Rochester. The youngster was well on his way to realizing his third dream, being offered roster spots on five Junior A team from Rochester, MN to San Diego, CA. In addition to the awards that were presented to the
hockey players, the Tyler Putnam Foundation donated 100 percent of the surplus funds to local and national charities.
The 17 award winners were as follows:
• Trevor Dennis, 17, Aquinas High School • Mitchell Henshaw, 16, Brockport High School • Ben Myles, 17, Canandaigua Youth Hockey • Abilgail Weltman, 12, Rochester Edge Girls Hockey • Austin Briganti, 18, Greece Athena High School Hockey • Trevor Brown, 15, Greece-Olympia/Arcadia High School Hockey • Austin Bull, 18, Hilton High School Hockey • Theodore Cup, 17. Irondequoit High School Hockey
• Thomas Grammatico, 18, Maksymum Hockey Program • Spencer Nuccitelli, 13, Monroe County Youth Hockey • Nick Charon, 15. Perinton Youth Hockey/Rochester Monarchs • Max McNally, 10, Rochester Grizzlies Hockey • Austin Pieniaszek, 17, Rochester Youth Hockey/ Rochester Alliance • Jackson Charron, 17, Spencerport High School Hockey • Cameron Dony, 14, Tri-County Youth Hockey • Billy VanApeldorn, 17, Webster Schroeder High School H ockey • Alex Puluci, 17, Webster Thomas High School Hockey
REGISTER NOW! 2014 SUMMER SESSION
BEGINS WEDNESDAY, MAY 7TH
WANTED: YOUTH PLAYERS
HURRY YOUTH REGISTRATION DEADLINE: MAY 5, 2014
• Youth House Leagues • Youth Instructional Programs • 10U 12U 14U 16U 18U/ High School League
• Tournament Travel Teams • Adult House Leagues • NEW Aluminum Division • Youth and Adult Open Hockey
• Adult 30+ League • NEW Women’s League • Accepting Individual Registration
FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: Eric@WNYRH.COM 716-903-2658 OR Jason@WNYRH.COM 716-444-2667
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Senior Hockey
26
Around the Senior Associations April showers do bring May flowers, but the month of April also features the wrapping-up of many senior leagues throughout Western New York with the end of playoff action. Here is a recap of what has happened within the adult circuit:
Holiday/Leisure
The Fall/Winter Labatt Senior Hockey League’s season at Holiday and Leisure Rinks is rapidly coming to a close. In the C Division, the top five teams qualified for postseason play and the opening round matchups saw the first-place Mad Dogs (17-5-2) play LKM (14-10-0) after they eliminated the Fighting Saints, while America (155-2) faced off against the Towne House (16-6-2). Both games went down to the wire, with LKM holding on for a 2-1 win. Meanwhile, Towne House avoided overtime by scoring an empty-netter and gained a 5-3 victory. In the championship game, Dan Sieber and Ryan Perkins each scored two goals, while Kevin Fischer added two assists to lead the Towne House to a 6-2 win and their second straight championship.
In the C3 Adams Division’s first round matchups, the first-place Red Dogs (17-3-4) cruised to a 7-2 win over an undermanned Green Buffalo Pub (11-10-3), while the second-place Keystone Killers (16-5-3) advanced to the finals with a 4-0 win over Certo Brothers (13-9-2). Marc Cancilla led the way with two goals in the Red Dogs’ 4-1 victory over the Keystone Killers. In the C3 Patrick Division, the fifth-place Full Blast (12-11-1) defeated Conlon’s Bar by a 6-2 margin and faced the first-place Pappas team (17-6-1), who captured a 5-4 victory 39 seconds into overtime. The Winnipeg Vets (12-9-3) had a much easier game dispatching Manny’s (12-9-3) by a final score of 7-3. The C4 Blair Division saw each of their top eight teams in the quarterfinals. First place LA Lounge (17-34) advanced to the next round with a 5-1 win over the eighth-place Screamin’ Beavers (13-11-0), while the other games featured two upsets and a thrilling finish. The second-place Fliptops (17-3-4) were upset by the seventh-place Motley Crew (13-10-1) by a 6-2 margin,
third-place Hydro (14-7-3) was knocked off by sixthplace Affordable Chiropractic by a 5-2 score and fifth-place M a x w e l l / Murphy (138-3) squeaked out a 3-2 win over fourth-place M. Wood (14-8-2). The semifinals saw Motley Crew get an early third period goal and hang on for a 2-1 win over LA Lounge, followed by Affordable gaining a spot in the finals by virtue of their 6-4 win over Maxwell/Murphy. John Deveny had a three point night, and led the younger Motley Crew squad to victory over the more experienced Affordable Chiropractic, with the game being decided with a late empty-net goal to provide a final score of 4-2. Likewise, the C4 McFall Division also had their top eight teams reach the quarterfinals. The opening matchup had the first-place Wolfpack (17-3-4) hang on for a 3-2 win over the eighth-place Bisons (12-11-1). The second-ranked Cherry’s Boys (15-6-3) were upset in a nail-biter against the Inferno (12-6-6), who prevailed by a 6-5 score, followed by third-place Metal Prep(146-4) winning by the same score over the sixth-ranked Outlaws(14-8-2) and the fourth-ranked Lavocats (15-81) were ousted by the fifth-place Ice Wolves (14-7-3) who scored an impressive 5-2 win. The second round pairings saw the Wolfpack prevail over the Inferno by edging out a close 5-4 victory. The other matchup featured Metal Prep gaining the lead with less than five minutes remaining in the third period, and also holding off the Ice Wolves by a score of 5-4. In the Novice Division, Shatter (13-9-2) gained first place in the final w e e k of the season, and faced the fourthranked Screamin’ I c e Monkeys (11-12-1). Shatter scored three goals in the first period and held on for a 4-3 victory. The second-ranked 901 (12-10-2) squared off against the third-place Ice Holes (11-11-2), with the Ice Holes coming out on top by virtue of a 5-2 score. Ben Garvey and Andrew Wesner paced Shatter with a hat trick, and a goal and two assists, respectively, in their impressive 6-2 win and enabled them to capture their second straight championship. The Weekend Division playoffs are slated to begin May 3 and 4, with the Atlantic and Pacific champions to be crowned on May 11. In addition, the two divisions of the Bald Eagles will see their champions awarded their championship trophies on April 30.
IAHL The IAHL winter regular season will wraps up over the next two weeks, with all five divisions concluding their seasons by May 15. The summer season will start the following week, with an added D Division playing on Tuesday nights. In addition to ice hockey, the IAHL is also offering a roller hockey league and ball hockey
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league this spring, with the roller league taking place on Monday nights and the ball hockey league taking place on Wednesday and Thursday nights. For more information, please visit www.iahl.com.
Performax
Multiple division winners were crowned over the last few weeks in the Performax Hockey League at the Northtown Center in Amherst. In the American Division, UB Dental took the league’s top division championship by sweeping the Danes to take home the American Division Championship. UB Dental was led by Performax’s Player of the Year, Robert Utz, who put together an outstanding campaign in the 2013-14 season. In the Beta North division, Bradford Ale House came back from a Game 1 loss to the Fighting Hellfish to win Games 2 and 3 and the championship. The Beta Central division saw the P22 team defeat Blue Light, while Blades of Steel swept Icy Red to win the Beta South. The Sportsman North division is still up for grabs at press time as Game 3 will be played between the Black Knights and Bloodhounds. The Central and South divisions each saw their respective champions crowned, however, as the Sentinels and Niagara Hitmen emerged victorious. Mike Baio was the Hitmen’s best player throughout the tournament, as he was a major factor on the ice. Led by Greg Podsiadlo and Andy Rupp, the Shooting Blanks downed Shennanigans in three games to win the Club North title, while Club South saw Buffalo Storm use all three games to defeat the Whalers.
Bud Bakewell Hockey
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Bud Bakewell Bruins: a Buffalo hockey staple for more than 50 years by Michael Mroziak Michael@wnyhockeyreport.com Amidst the growth of youth hockey in Western New York, including the birth of new associations and programs in the past half century, there has been within the City of Buffalo a youth hockey program that has quietly continued its mission of keeping kids in the game for more than 50 years: the Bud Bakewell Bruins. The program is named after its founder, Reuben “Bud” Bakewell. Born in Glasgow, Scotland, Bakewell moved to Canada as a child and learned the game of hockey after settling in his new homeland. According to Ken Thomas, a member of the Bud Bakewell Hockey board and its public relations officer, “His local involvement in hockey can be traced back to a rink he built in his backyard, complete with lights and music. His initial involvement with organized youth hockey began in 1958 when he signed his son up at a local rink. He quickly became a mainstay at the rink and the successful program was eventually named after him The Bud Bakewell Bruins - the only such honor bestowed on any individual in Western New York.” The values of the Bud Bakewell Bruins, as explained by Thomas, are promotion and encouragement of athleticism, physical fitness, sportsmanship and also the development of moral character by boys and girls in the Buffalo area. “The ideals in which the organization was created continues in his honor to this day,” said Thomas. “Well, here we are 50-plus years later and there has been thousands of local youths that have benefited from the efforts put forth by hundreds of volunteer coaches and parents in this organization.” 1 9/4/12 9:39 AM Page 1 UBNS_WNY Hockey_2012_Layout
The Bruins are a longtime tenant at Buffalo’s Riverside Rink, where Bakewell was instrumental in enclosing the rink. For his efforts, Bakewell was honored in 1960 with the General Motors Award for Excellence in Community Activities and the DeWitt Clinton Masonic Award for Community Service. Later, in 1987, he became the second recipient of USA Hockey’s William Thayer Tutt Award in recognition of his lifetime achievements in promoting grass roots hockey. The home of the Bud Bakewell program, as well as Hasek’s Heroes, Skating Athletes Bold at Heart (SABAH), local high school games and even occasional Buffalo Sabres practices is now, according to Thomas, is serious need of upgrades. “Unfortunately time has taken its toll on the building and a lack of funds for improvements has got some of those that use the facility concerned for the future of their organizations,” said Thomas in written remarks. “A reorganized board of directors for the Bud Bakewell Hockey Association is diligently working towards getting the help they need from the City of Buffalo and its volunteers to not only to address the building repairs but also to promote and grow the Bud Bakewell youth hockey program.” That board is currently led by Bill Cline, who has served on the board for the past 12 years and was recently appointed its president. Cline has coached youth hockey for more than 35 years and coached McKinley High School’s hockey team for nearly two decades. Past president Alan Shubbuck, vice president Jay Tagliarino, treasurer Anissa Martin, registrar Tina Garrett, as well as fellow board members Tony Johnson, John Fracos, Rick Kindzia, Vince LoVallo, Scott Brennen, Mark
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Major and Thomas have several decades combined of commitment and experience in youth hockey. “This group is firmly committed to putting in the time and effort necessary for a successfully run and quality youth hockey club,” said Thomas. “Some of the changes that are in the works for the organization includes a media room to assist coaches in game review and team training,” he continued. “Complete collaborations among coaches at all levels to teach and learn from one another, providing consistency and the best on ice experience and expectations for our players. A commitment to work with the much anticipated “Academy of Hockey” at Buffalo’s HARBORCenter and a new internet presence will help to keep everyone well informed of scheduling, events and allow for parents to share their comments and concerns. With the anticipated help from the City of Buffalo we also expect improvements to the rink to make for a better spectator experience.” What the organization especially takes pride in is its effort to keep the game as affordable as possible for local hockey families, no small feat given the rising cost of equipment, ice time and most facets of the sport. “It is this dedication starting right at the top that will set the Bud Bakewell Hockey Association apart from other area youth hockey programs,” said Thomas. “The commitment of the board, the coaches and assistant coaches, team managers, parents, volunteers and players... We want to create a synergy throughout the entire organization: you are not just part of a team but part of a legacy that is The Bud Bakewell Bruins.” For tryout information, families may contact registrar Tina Garrett at Goaliemom43@msn.com.
Men’s Club Hockey Report
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Big League Bengals: Two Buffalo State Seniors Go Pro by Lars Lewis lars@wnyhockeyreport.com The Buffalo State Bengals of Division III men’s hockey had two seniors in forward Mike Zannella and goaltender Kevin Carr sign professional contracts following the Bengals’ 20132014 season that ended in a 2-0 SUNYAC semifinal loss against the Geneseo Knights back in late
February. Carr, who holds nearly every goaltending record there is at Buffalo State in his four years with the program and this year became the second ever All-American for the program, signed a contract with the Peoria Rivermen of the Southern Professional Hockey League (SPHL). Carr went 2-1-1 with a 1.48 GAA and a .950 SV% backing up starter Kyle Rank and made two appearances in the playoffs in relief (2.50 GAA .929 SV%). Following their playoff ouster against the Columbus Cottonmouths, Carr was immediately picked up in late March by the Colorado Eagles of the ECHL (formerly East Coast Hockey League) and was with the club for two weeks before being released. Zannella, who had been the captain of the Bengals the last two seasons, signed a pro contract with the Fayetteville FireAntz of the SPHL as well. The Ithaca, NY native had a goal and three assists in eight games with Fayetteville before their season concluded having not qualified for the playoffs. Carr and Zannella were able to take part in an interview when they returned to Buffalo to talk about their experiences following their career at Buffalo State. 1. Who was the first person to contact you regarding your contract and describe me how you felt and the first person you called after finding out the news? M.Z: I received a call from Dave Imonti, my family advisor, on March 7th saying the Fireantz were interested in me. After the deal was finalized, the first person I contacted was my brother David who lives in Mike Zannella of the South Carolina. Fayetteville FireAntz. Photo I was extremely courtesy of Dan Hickling for excited and grateful USCHO. to hear that a chance to play professional hockey had finally arrived. Although I was not sure exactly what I was getting into, I was thrilled to take advantage of the opportunity. K.C: The head coach of Peoria (Jean Guy Trudel) called me regarding the Rivermen. I was obviously very excited and nervous, but more anxious to get started on a new chapter in my hockey career. The first people I called were my parents and then my teammates at school. 2) You two actually played against each other in a back-to-back this year, what was it like seeing your teammate of four years dressing in the opponents’ uniform? M.Z: Seeing Kev in an opposing jersey was pretty neat. We had a chance to joke around in warm ups
before the game. Even went out to dinner after our first game. It was nice being able to see each other. K.C: I had mixed emotions. Of course I wanted to see Mike play very well and get a chance to excel but at the same time I had a job to do myself. It was great seeing a familiar face even though it was in a different jersey. 3) After completing your respective seasons in the SPHL, what one lasting memory do you two have when playing this year? Kevin Carr suits up for the M.Z: I won’t ever Peoria Rivermen. Photo forget my first game and just all of the preparation courtesy of Maggie Stevenson. that went into it that day. From my 6 AM flight to getting lost in a taxi to even my first assist. Just a day you never forget. K.C: I think it will be my first pro game and first pro win on the same night. My parents and cousins were there to see the game and that was really special to me. 4) To your four years at Buffalo State, you two have been a part of what is the greatest era in the history of the program. Looking back, what was the best part about playing together for those seasons? M.Z: After completing four years at Buffalo State, the best thing had to be the people I met and got to play with. I was able to make some friends that I know I will have for the rest of my life. I was also able to play with some of the best players to ever wear a buffalo state jersey. Kevin was definitely one of those guys. He worked his butt off every single day and pushed everyone else to be better. The success we were able to have as a team was great. Would have been nice to get a championship for Buffalo State but playing in the SUNYAC we learned real quick that does not happen overnight. I enjoyed every second with my teammates at Buffalo. K.C: Going through the ups and downs together was the best part. The brotherhood we had was special. it was a bond not many teams have and that’s what was so great about my time here. A lasting memory for me would be the senior class both of us are graduating with. We have been through a lot together
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and the one thing I will take away is our friendship that I will cherish forever. 5) Now the fact that you are both seniors and are spending the last parts of your semester, where does the road lead for you two going forward? M.Z: As a senior right now I’m focused on school and graduating. I will be training over the summer and looking to play somewhere in the fall. I enjoyed my time playing in Fayetteville and am really excited to see what the future holds. K.C: I want to continue pursuing my hockey career as long as I can and that’s my focus moving forward. Commentary: I had the pleasure of broadcasting their games during their tenure at Buffalo State for three years on 91.3FM WBNY, the campus radio station. It can be safely said that these two men were an integral part in the culture change at Buffalo State, who had largely struggled in the years preceding their arrival. To have also interviewed these men either after games, practice or even having lunch with them to talk about the season, it was glaring how professional they were/are and how much they cared about their team. It is a brotherhood within this group. From spending weekends together at one of their houses near campus, to their Monday “locker room courts” which would hold players accountable if they did something wrong or didn’t perform a locker room chore to keep it clean. From personal experience, Zannella and Carr were at the forefront of a lot of it. Leaders of a lifelong brotherhood that donned the orange and black at the Ice Arena.
Sponsors
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Rochester Youth 2014-15 Tournament Schedule
Sure, maybe our stripes are changing, but our ‘Rocks principles never will... W W W. G O R O C K S . O R G
Level
Date
Bantam Major AAA Pee Wee Minor AA Pee Wee Minor AAA Squirt Major AAA Squirt Minor AAA Bantom Minor AAA Pee Wee Major AAA Mite Cross Ice Jamboree
Sept. 12-14, 2014 Sept. 12-14, 2014 Sept. 26-28, 2014 Dec. 5-7, 2014 Dec. 5-7, 2014 Oct. 11-13, 2014 Jan. 30 - Feb.1, 2015 Feb. 8, 2015
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5 Game Changing Bad Habits (2 Bad Habits Added!) by Rob Sedia Professional Hockey Instructor rob@newedgehockey.com Since I have had the very fortunate opportunity to write columns for a few hockey publications, this particular article has been requested by more coaches, players, and parents than any other article(over 100 times!). I decided to rerun this article due to its popularity and add 2 additional bad habits that can negatively impact a team’s chances of success. I would also like to congratulate my players for their 40 wins and 5 championships this past season. What an amazing group of young men who made a real commitment and worked their tails off all season! Thank you for your dedications boys! And my staff, Jeremy Rossignolo and Dan Kuntz – your knowledge and dedication was instrumental, thank you! The dictionary defines the word habit as: an acquired behavior pattern regularly followed until it has become almost involuntary. This definition, as it relates to ice hockey, implies that “what we do in practice has a direct impact on how we play”. We practice much more than we play and practice is about repetition so it’s easy to see how good and bad habits form. We must pay extra attention to some bad hockey habits that I call “game changers”.
Bad Habit: The Fly By / Net How often in a hockey game have you seen a scramble in front of the net and a crew of puck-hungry players battle for the puck as the intensity from the crowd starts to heighten? Moments like these can get pretty crazy and when the battle results in a goal the crowd can really go wild! Even though these are not the prettiest of goals (often referred to as “garbage goals”), they make up the lion’s share of lamp lighters. At a very young age, players need to create a habit of getting to the net and pouncing on rebounds. Coaches will often make this part of their pre-game and game time talk but do enough coaches make this part of their practice agendas? Following shots and attacking the net is a pretty basic hockey tactic yet time and time again I watch players (at all levels) fly by the net when a teammate takes a shot or after they take a shot themselves. Most of the time they end up curling into the corner or behind the goal line allowing juicy rebounds to sit there until gobbled up by the opponent. The only way to score on a rebound is to be there, so creating a “follow, stop, jam” habit is critical. Unfortunately, most practice drills that include shooting promote the “fly by” simply because it is not recognized that it is happening. For example, I was watching a squirt team practice the other day and they were doing a great half ice drill that incorporated an open pivot, a direction change, receiving a pass and taking a shot. The coaching staff paid a great deal of attention to the pivots, direction changes, and passing yet allowed the players to “fly by” the net after EVERY shot! The number of rebounds left untouched, far surpassed any other shot result. Although this is just one example, this scenario happens all too often. Every time I see it happen during a game, I cringe and can’t help but wonder how many times this player did a “fly
by” during practice! It is my opinion that most coaches preach “go to the net” during games in an effort to maximize rebound opportunities but without constant reinforcement of this action during practice (where the most repetitions occur) the likelihood of compliance at game time is drastically reduced. If we refer back to the dictionary’s definition of the word habit, we can easily see how “fly bys” in practice can lead to a bad game time habit. It is not a coincidence that at the highest levels of the game, the number of goals scored as a result of rebounds make up the highest percentage of total goals scored (some sources show it to be as high as 75%). This tells us that the most talented and discipline players on the planet have the follow, stop, and jam habit. With limited space and defensive coverage in front of the net, scoring on a rebound requires good timing, quickness, and strength, you must be strong on your skates and work your way to the puck. Make the “follow, stop, and jam” a mandatory part of any drill that incorporates shooting (when applicable) and enjoy the additional game time scoring opportunities that come from forming this good hockey habit.
Bad Habit: The Shut Down It’s a fast game and as you continue on to higher levels, it just keeps getting faster. As fast as any one player or stick can move, the puck can/will always move faster so being “receive ready” is critical. Turning away from a team mate when he has the puck is a bad hockey habit that happens all too often. Whether it happens during a break out, a regroup in the neutral zone, or during an offense press, “shut downs” cause a large number of broken plays and turnovers. “Opening” to a passer is a very important tactical skill to have as a hockey player especially when it comes naturally. We have all heard the hockey phrase “time and space” but do you truly understand what it means? “Time” creates “space”, “space creates opportunities. For example, the quicker and more accurate (time) a pass is, the more space the receiver has and in turn gives the receiver more opportunity to do something positive (shot, pass, skate, etc.) Shaving 1 second by opening to a passer and being “receive ready” can help create the timespace domino effect. Obviously tape to tape passes are the end all, be all of the time-space theory – I did not include passing as a “habit” because it is a skill (not a tactical skill). Bottom line on this one is FACE the man with the puck, always open toward him and present a target (stick presence – where you want the puck or move to open ice for an indirect pass). *If you are interested in some practice drills that I use to promote the “open up” habit, just send me an email at rob@newedgehockey.com
Bad Habit: The Fly By / Player We talked about creating time and space so now let’s talk about taking it away. Gap control is not just limited to a line rush on a defenseman, gap control is a tactical skill needed by all players as it occurs in all 3 zones. Attacking a puck carrier requires gap control, taking away or limiting their time and space is key to creating turnovers. More times than not I see players skate at a puck carrier in a defensive attack mode and when the carrier makes a move or changes directions, the attacker rolls off, makes a big C turn and re-attacks. Defensive systems like the 1-2-2 (for example) will never work because the “1” player is not completing
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his job! This bad habit gives the puck carrier the time-space advantage. Make sure your players know why you do “stop and start” and “mirror” drills during practice as this is a perfect example. Be a pest to that puck carrier and close the gap with stops, starts and have an active stick. Playing “big” with your stick takes away passing lanes and puts additional pressure on the puck carrier. “Pressured” players have to move the puck out of desperation, not intention. Desperate puck movement usually result in turn-overs.
Bad Habit: One Dimensional Retrieval Proper puck retrieval is another critical tactical skill all hockey players should improve on. Many players have the habit of collecting the puck and then looking for options. We need to reverse this thought process as we need to be prepared prior to puck acquisition. When skating after a loose puck, players should focus on two main elements, speed and preparation. It is simple in theory, the faster you get to the puck, the more time you have to do something positive with it. The more prepared you are before you get to the puck (shoulder checks and scanning the ice) the more options you will have. Choose the right angle when approaching the puck, one that allows you to protect it and collect it. Use deception and “look-offs” when defenders are on your heels as one small move (a fake ring) can buy you just enough time to find an open team mate or create just enough space to skate the puck.
Bad Habit: Standing Still The game requires movement and flow, outside of a face off, you should never be standing still. Players in motion have the advantage when it comes to effective breakouts, efficient neutral zone play and of course offensive pressure. When you stand still in front of your opponents net (and it is not a designed screen or back door decoy etc.), you make it very easy to defend you. When you move to open ice, you either pull a defender toward you (creating a lane to the net for a team mate) or you become a viable outlet. The same goes for getting out of your own zone – stand still, you are easy to defend, easier to get to, and good luck trying to collect the puck and skate up ice if you do receive a pass. Players who move without the puck create passing opportunities for their team mates and when your team learns the art of indirect passing (passing to an area that a team mate is headed) the number of turn-overs by your team will drastically reduce (fewer forced passes into traffic, fewer forced rings etc.) Try the 3V2 Sweep in practice – if you would like a copy of this drill, shoot me an email; rob@newedgehockey.com
Bad Habit: High Shots Being able to “lift” the puck is milestone achievement for young hockey players but shooting high has almost become an obsession for most of them! To be effective, hockey players must possess an arsenal of shots and yes, being able to shoot to higher areas of the net is one of them. The problem arises when players shoot high over 80% of the time and most of those high shots fly over the net giving the team a 0.00% chance of scoring and a 0.00% chance of a rebound. There is a lot to be said for hitting the net with your shot and giving your
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team a true scoring opportunity. A shot that is “on net” can go “in the net” and a shot that is “on net” can result “in a rebound” which ultimately gives your team 2 chances for the price of 1. Consider the math over an entire season; how many legitimate scoring chances are you giving up? I assure you, it is more than you can afford.
Bad Habit: Programmed Passes In some cases, this bad player habit stems from a bad coaching habit. Early on, some coaches instruct players to pass to a “place” when in certain situations. For example; “sending the puck to the front of the net” when in the corner of the offensive zone (or below the goal line). What you end up seeing are players randomly sending the puck to an area, not a player. If we must send the puck to an area, let’s make sure that area benefits us instead of potentially hurting us. In more cases than not, randomly throwing the puck toward the slot turns into a breakout pass from you to your opponent(s). Know what is going on BEFORE you get the puck - scanning the ice and having a general idea of where your team mates are is critical. If you can’t find an open team mate or don’t have time to find one, (in reference to the example above)don’t help your opponents – make it harder for them and give your team another opportunity to control the puck and/or create a legitimate scoring opportunity. You can do this by keeping the puck low. A soft chip behind the net moves defensive players (which can create lanes) and IF they are able to win the new puck battle, they have to go a full 200 feet which we know is very difficult to do. I also believe in teaching players at a young age how to cycle in the offensive zone which REALLY helps deter programmed and panic passing. There are many examples of programmed and panic passing and they happen in all three zones. When team mates are not open or you don’t have time to find one, knowing where to send the puck (and where not to) will help your team tremendously. Rob Sedia is a Partner/Professional Instructor with the NewEdge Hockey Training Company and will be writing a monthly column for WNY Hockey Report. If you would like to comment on this article, ask questions, provide feedback, or share your thoughts, please send an email to: rob@newedgehockey.com
West Seneca Youth Hockey Association
Thank You to everyone who
has made this a very memorable 2013-14 West Seneca Wings season.
We look forward to seeing everyone next season. Look for some new improvements to our facilities in the upcoming year such as board dividers for our beginners and mites programs. We also have a state of the art sound system and new 4 sided score board being installed. Lots of advertisement opportunities available! For information on advertising, contact Dick Lynch at 583-1162 or email at wings788@verizon.net
www.westsenecayouthhockey.com WNYHockeyReport.com
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Hudson Fasching
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Future Sabres – Hudson Fasching by Warren Kozireski Warren@wnyhockeyreport.com The story of Hudson Fasching and his upbringing with two younger siblings needing round the clock care due to a mitochondrial disorder leaving them unable to walk or talk has been well documented in hockey circles. Stories abound all over the internet—just Google it. The experience speaks volumes about who he is as a person and has helped focus him more than others the same age. But the hockey is why the Buffalo Sabres thought enough of him to trade for his rights along with Nic Deslauriers in the Braydon McNabb deal with the Los Angeles Kings in early March. He was barely 18 years old when he walked onto the University of Minnesota campus this past fall, but was still in a man’s body at 6’2” and 207 lb. His youth hasn’t stopped him from competing and thriving against players up to six years older than he. “It’s hard for me to judge whether I grew up faster with the circumstances with my family, but I was around adults and doctors more than most teenagers are, so that may have accelerated me a little bit,” he said during the off-day at the Frozen Four. “But going to the Development Program helped me get out of the Minnesota bubble a little bit and, we are such a tight family that getting away helped me with my independence a little bit.
“I got caught off guard,” said Fasching about the March 5th trade sending him to Buffalo. “I just got drafted last year and I’m just a kid in college, so it caught me off guard, but I’m excited. I was in class when I got a text from my adviser and I’m like ‘okay’. Fasching was named to the All-Big Ten Freshman team (along with fellow Sabres prospect J.T. Compher from the University of Michigan) and was an All-Big Ten Honorable Mention selection after his 13 goal-16 assist performance in his first 38 collegiate contests. Fasching spent the previous two seasons with the U.S. National Development Team in Ann Arbor, Michigan where he had a combined 70 points. That came after his two-year high school career with Apple Valley out of his hometown of Burnsville, Minnesota. “The Development Program was a good move for me. It is very professional and helps players reach the next level. It really helped me. I had to change my game a little bit while I was there, but that’s part of hockey.” Prior to the trade, Fasching was the third-best rated prospect in the Los Angeles system (65th overall in the NHL) according to the latest The Hockey News Future Watch. And, even with his big body, he was on the top penalty killing unit for the Golden Gophers. His style of play is to use his wide body to win the battles along the boards, plant himself in front of the opponents net and cause as much distraction for the goaltender as possible. Exhibit A came in the national semi-final game against North Dakota at the Frozen Four in Philadelphia. The first 40 minutes were scoreless and midway through the third period, the Golden Gophers were in the offensive zone. Fasching camps out in front; two players try to
move him freeing up line-mate Sam Warning to skate in front from behind the net and score. He was not officially credited with an assist, but he directly impacted the play with his presence and size. Exhibit B came in the Frozen Four final. Fasching standing in front of the net screening the Union College goaltender as Warning shoots from near the faceoff circle through a tight window to score the Golden Gophers second goal. And no official assist, but again an integral component to the tally. “That’s what our line does,” said Fasching after the game. “I drive to the net and look for rebounds.” When asked how many of his 13 goals came from rebounds laying around the goal mouth, Fasching said, “pretty much all of them.” Including Exhibit C. With his team trailing Union 5-3 in the third period and on the power play, Fasching pounded home a rebound—his 14th goal of the season—while standing on the doorstep to bring his team to within one goal of their eventual 7-4 loss. As part of the top penalty killing unit, he also helped keep Union off the scoreboard going 0-for-7 on the power play in the title game. Nothing like knowing your role.
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Mike Gilbert Olympic Journey
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Mike Gilbert – Olympic Journey by Randy Schultz Randy@wnyhockeyreport.com
VP that can sometimes get lost in all of the day-to-day activities.
“It was an awesome experience.” That is how Mike Gilbert explained the three weeks he spent at the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia. Gilbert went to the Olympics as a member of the 2014 USA Men’s Olympic Hockey Team. Gilbert, the Buffalo Sabres’ vice president of public and community relations, served on the pubic relations staff for the 2014 US Hockey Team. “It really didn’t hit me and realized that I was a part of the Olympics,” continued Gilbert. “It’s even hit me more now that time has passed a bit more, you realize how neat of an experience it really was. “I’ve had a lot of people ask me what it was like and it seems like I’ve told each one of them a different story. We just had so many different experiences while I was there.” But was there any one moment that really stuck out for Gilbert? “No, not really,” answered Gilbert. “The opening ceremonies were truly amazing. “Just the general enormity of the Olympic Games, the amount of people, the amount of athletes, the amount of media and the amount of transportation that was available to us was unbelievable. It was a gigantic undertaking. “It was a huge production to keep all of it organized and moving.” There was one other special moment for the Sabres
“I worked 21 straight days and didn’t have a day off. But the last day I was in Sochi, I got to go to the Black Sea. “It was actually about 300 yards from the apartment I was staying in. So it was there all the time, but I just didn’t get a chance to see it. “But I knew all of that going in. In the end it was an experience I’ll never forget.”
“Being in the team picture,” recalled Gilbert. “It was taken the first night the team was in Sochi. “I’ve been in pro sports for 25 years and have never been in an official team picture. It was an historical moment.” Gilbert had the wish everyone on the team and rooting for Team USA had. “I was hoping that we would win the gold medal,” remarked Gilbert. “It was unfortunate that we didn’t win a medal. “But it was still great to be a part of the experience.” Did Gilbert get to do any sightseeing? “Unfortunately, no,” said Gilbert. “That was one of the drawbacks of my job.
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