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CONTENTS / 3
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 Columnists Warren Kozireski Warren@wnyhockeyreport.com Janet Schultz Mike Mroziak Kyle Gunn-Taylor Kyle@wnyhockeyreport.com Thomas Morris Jr. Tom@wnyhockeyreport.com WESTERN NEW YORK 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. WESTERN NEW YORK HOCKEY REPORT is an equal opportunity employer. Contents 2012 Western New York Hockey Report. All rights reserved. WESTERN NEW YORK HOCKEY REPORT is published monthly, except for May and July, by Ian C. Woods of WNY Hockey Report, 245 Lawrence Woods, Orchard Park, NY 14127. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Western New York Hockey Report P.O. Box 302 East Aurora, N.Y. 14052
In This Issue: Amerks........................................................................................................................ 6 Around the Associations.....................................................................................13 Burkholder: Wins & Whistles................................................................................ 5 Buffalo Stars............................................................................................................25 College Hockey: Men...........................................................................................16 College Hockey: Women.....................................................................................18 Feature: Mark Metzger........................................................................................14 Feature: Sabres Sled Hockey.............................................................................15 Feature: Hockey As Therapy..............................................................................12 Feature: Doug Hart, Golfer.................................................................................20 High School Boys Hockey..................................................................................... 4 Junior Sabres Report............................................................................................10 Mental Toughness ................................................................................................26 PUCCS........................................................................................................................23 Puck Hog Volume 2...............................................................................................22 Red Bull Results........................................................................................................ 8 Wheatfield Blades News.....................................................................................24
Happy Holidays and Wishing You a Prosperous New Year! From the Staff of WNY Hockey Report
BOYS HIGH SCHOOL / 4
Men’s High School Hockey By Warren Kozireski
SECTION V HIGH SCHOOL
W
ith the season just three weeks old, teams are just beginning their divisional schedules, but a few teams are already separating themselves from the pack.
The Greece Thunder, under first year head coach Andrew Rice, was off to a 3-0 start including a pair in-division wins. Austin Brignati had four goals and Anthony Crawford led with three assists as they outscored their opponents 103. Kyle Schieb was in net for all three victories. Connor Rotenberg and Michael Finestone were leading Brighton/East/HFL to a 3-1 start with the Barons averaging 4.5 goals per game. Aquinas, back after a one-year hiatus from league play, also was 3-0 with Irondequoit and Webster Thomas right on their heels. The Little Irish were led offensively by Spencerport transfer Anthony Depetres, who was atop the league points list with eight goals and eight assists in
just three games. Linemate Jimmy Dilberto had racked up a league high nine assists over the same period. Irondequoit was being paced by Graham Gooch and Matthew Comanzo, who combined for 14 points in four games, while the Thomas Titans’ John Soures was averaging a goal per game. In Division III, Brockport and Churchville-Chili were undefeated through the early stages. Blue Devils Brandon Henshaw and Zach Coughlin were atop the team leader board with Justin Alves pacing the Saints with five points in two games. Aside from Schieb from the Thunder, three other goalies were allowing fewer than two goals per game: Vinny Guida from Irondequoit, Steve Speis of Thomas and Justin Nevinger from Aquinas. Hat Tricks Jacy Karpovage-Irondequoit Michael Capicotto-McQuaid (2) Connor Russell-Penfield Connor Rotenberg-Brighton Brandon Henshaw-Brockport Anthony Depetres-Aquinas
Shutouts Brian Kick-McQuaid Patrick Massey-Penfield Kyle Schieb-Greece Thunder Doug Liebe-Brockport Justin Nevinger-Aquinas Doyle Kinnear-Canandaigua Alex Berry-McQuaid Vinny Guida-Irondequoit Jake Newkirk-Fairport Chris Chilelli-Brighton
High School Coaches/Managers: Send your high school hockey news to Warren@wnyhockeyreport.com (Rochester) Tom@wnyhockeyreport.com (Buffalo). We would also appreciate photos and your logos.
Williamsville Stars To Hold Alumni Game
O
n December 23, the Williamsville Stars High School Club Hockey team will host their annual Alumni Hockey Game at the Northtown Center in Amherst with all proceeds from the event going to Kids Escaping Drugs. All entrants and spectators for the event are asked to make a $5 donation. The team makes this effort and donation in memory of Eric Fischer, a 2008 graduate of Williamsville North, who played for the Williamsville Stars hockey team. “(Eric’s) dad John has served as the referee of our games in the past,” said Mark Palmisano, the Team Manager of the Williamsville Stars Club team. “The alumni game was started when Eric was a student. We always raised money at each event and made a donation to a charitable organization,” continued Palmisano. “(The Williamsville Stars Club Hockey team) retired his number 18 that same year,” he added. Last year’s donation of $500 included a portion from the Williamsville Stars club funds, with hopes of reaching a $1000 goal this year, from all donations. Any alumni not already participating in the game can contact Mark Palmisano at whschmanager@gmail, through the teams website www. williamsvillestars.com or on their Facebook page.
Date: December 23, 2012 Game Start Time: 11:30 am on the Olympic Rink Location: Northtown Center, Amherst, NY
BURKHOLDER / 5
NU’s DAVE BURKHOLDER-WHISTLES AND WINS
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By Warren Kozireski
pposing players, coaches and fans know it long before they get to the rink. One would think graduated Purple Eagles players look for a board to jump over when they hear anyone do it in their life’s travels. It’s that whistle—loud, piercing and echoing through the arena. Niagara players and fans know it means the head coach wants a line change on the fly. If you estimate the whistle comes minimally 20 times per game, Niagara’s Dave Burkholder is closing in on 4,500 career whistles during game action over his 11+ seasons as head coach of the Purple Eagles. More importantly, the Welland, Ontario native recently surpassed the 200-career win mark on November 30th on home ice against Sacred Heart. But, if you talk with him, that pales in comparison to the teams undefeated record in Atlantic Hockey Association play through the first nine conference games this season and top-20 ranking in the USCHO poll. “It’s a number, but it’s all about the players and the streak we are on and how well this team has been playing,” said Burkholder after the milestone win. “It’s a nice number.” “It says that I’ve had some unbelievable assistant coaches and some great players that have come through the program. I’m very lucky in both regards. “I was a little surprised at how much play it got, so that makes you sit back and think.” Burkholder has been part of the Niagara program since its launch for the 1996-97 season first as assistant coach with former RIT teammate Blaise
McDonald. Photo in article: Janet Schultz; Historic Photos Courtesy RIT and Coaching photo Courtesy NU
He took over the top spot when McDonald departed for UMass-Lowell in 2001. Since taking over, Niagara has won two College Hockey America tournament titles, two CHA regular season titles, two CHA Coach of the Year honors, has coached two Hobey Baker Award finalists in Joe Tallari and Paul Zanette, six CHA Player of the Year winners (Tallari, Barret Ehgoetz, Jeff Van Nynatten, Sean Bentivoglio, Juliano Pagliero and Zanette) and one AHA Player of the Year (Zanette). Add two CHA Tournament MVP’s in Van Nynatten and Ted Cook and fully 138 players named to the CHA and AHA All-Academic team members and Burkholder’s legacy is intact, but still growing. “We push our guys Monday through Thursday, so when the refs show up it’s time to just let them play. They know the system we want, so we let them create and just sit back and watch.” While behind the Niagara bench the team has averaged 17 wins per season capped by a 22-win campaign in 2007-08. He has a .540 winning percentage and now joins 46 other active college coaches who have surpassed 200 wins. As an example of the company he is keeping on that list, Mike Eaves of Wisconsin entered the same weekend with 210 career victories, North Dakota’s Dave Hakstol had 219 and Minnesota-Duluth’s Scott Sandelin sat at 220. His next (as of December 9th) and 202nd win will tie him with longtime Manhattanville program creator Keith Levinthal. He still has some work to do before catching Frank Serratore, of conference foe Air Force, who is second among AHA coaches with 307 wins. Other college coaches with local ties who also are
ahead on the list are former Canisius head man Brian Cavanaugh (342 wins), Fredonia’s Jeff Merideth (349) and Mercyhurst’s Rick Gotkin (438). “It means a lot to him,” said senior forward Marc Zanette. “Just like a player reaching 100 points coaches take milestones pretty serious(ly), so he was pretty excited to get the puck after the game.” His ties to western New York began in the early 1980’s when new head coach Brian Mason enticed him to change his mind about attending Rensselaer (RPI) and instead follow him to become a four-year starter in goal for RIT. A national championship in 1983 with the Most Valuable Player award and three-time ECAC First Team All-Star nods, he was named an All-American in 1984. He still holds the ECAC record for shutouts in a season (7) and career (12). Next was a stint as an assistant coach with another former RIT teammate Chris Johnstone in Niagara Falls with the Ontario Hockey League’s Thunder mentoring such future NHL regulars such as Ethan Moreau and Jay McKee plus former Edmonton selection and Rochester native Jason Bonsignore before jumping with McDonald to start Niagara’s program. So, of all 200 wins, which is his favorite? “I can’t really answer that, but probably one of the championships. Maybe beating Bemidji (State) at home in 2008 to win the CHA title to go to the tourney. They were nationally ranked that year and had Matt Read. “But they are all special. There is nothing like going into the locker room after a win with 28 guys, including the ones who didn’t dress; it’s a fun place to be with everyone smiling.” And maybe whistling?
AMERKS / 6
A
But it isn’t just a lot of fter each period at Rochplaying time that is setting Brenester home games the nan on a pace to set career marks media are given three stat in several offensive categories. sheets—the game summary He had nine goals through the with goals, assists, shots, plus/ first 20 games this season. His minus and individual shots plus previous best mark is 16 goals set two team sheets with multiple last season (17 if you include his other categories including indifirst NHL goal on a Sabres call-up). vidual icetime. Nine assists puts in jeopardy his More often than not, the career-best 24 in his second pro Amerks player seeing the most year in Portland. playing time is defenseman T.J. By Warren Kozireski As of the first week in December Brennan. he stood second in the AHL in Take an early December goals and points and tied for first game as exhibit A. with four power play markers. First period showed fairly He netted two shorthanded goals in the same game against even distribution rotating four lines and all three defensive Albany November 23rd while setting a pairs, but Brennan still plays 8:38; one of only two players to few personal milestones with his 200th exceed the eight minute plateau. professional game and 100th career Second period things tighten up and Rochester goes point. shorthanded four times along with three power plays, Bren Last season was the third and final nan’s time shoots up to almost half the period at 9:50—1:37 year of the New Jersey natives threemore than the next closest teammate in the stanza. year entry level deal and he could have Third period he again is the leader at 8:31—the only signed elsewhere, but chose to return Amerk to exceed the eight minute mark. to the Buffalo organization. In total, the 23-year old former second round draft pick “This is a great organization and finishes with 26:59, four-plus minutes more than the next they’ve given me a lot of respect and teammate. a lot of appreciation so I want to show Being part of both the penalty kill and power play helps that back. I want to be a part of this add seconds, but being dependable in your own end counts team when we win a Stanley Cup eventually, so just trying to for even more faith from the coaching staff. work my way up the ladder right now.” “It’s an honor that they depend on me and put me in all of the situations; it’s greatly appreciated,” said Brennan. “It’s a Brennan was expected to compete for a spot with the lot of responsibility on my end so it’s making sure I’m on top of Sabres in training camp, but is trying to not let the lockout affect his mental preparation or the on-ice product. my game and helping the team as best I can.”
AMERKS REPORT
“At the end of the day the most important thing is winning and really learning about yourself and learning how to play the game the right way. The more chemistry you can build with different sets of guys, the better you look. “It (handling the lockout) comes down to maturity and trying to control the things you can. It’s the game within the game. I was looking to come in this year and try to make the Sabres. But now the only thing I can control is to come down here and play the best I can and hope for the best when the lockout ends. And if it doesn’t, then come back next year. If I stayed at a standstill I wouldn’t help anyone, but I think I’m off to a pretty good start.” NEWS & NOTES: •Rookie Brian Flynn netted his first professional hat trick November 23rd against Albany. He was tied for fifth in the AHL in rookie scoring. •Rookie Frederic Roy scored his first professional goal at home against San Antonio November 28th. •Going into their December 8th Toronto road game, this odd stat— since 2007-08 Toronto is 17-3-2 at the Blue Cross Arena while the Amerks are 11-4-1-2 over their last 17 games at Ricoh Coliseum. •Former Amerk Tim Kennedy was named the AHL Player of the Week for the period ending December 2nd. The Worcester forward scored five goals and was +5 in three road contests. •Through the first ten home games Rochester was fifth in the AHL in average attendance at 6,745 per game. •David Leggio was tied for third in the league with nine wins while ranking first in minutes played and saves.
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RED BULL / 8
he American skaters in the Red Bull Crashed Ice World Championships made their biggest impact in tour history in picturesque Niagara Falls, with the fastest time in qualifying and a second place finish in the final race of the night. The hero of the night for the USA, was St. Paul, MN resident Cameron Naasz who was the skater to earn both of those accolades. “(This finish) gives myself and my teammates a lot of confidence,” as Naasz talked about going to the next stop on the tour, “my teammates had great qualifying times tonight too, we just had a couple mishaps on the track in the races. I have high expectations for us at St. Paul.” Leading the charge against skaters from international countries such as Sweden and Austria, as well as the large majority of skaters from cities across Canada, Naasz was one of the 11 men and 2 women representing the United States. The US contingent included Naasz, Tigh Isaac (Salt Lake City, Utah) a skater on the U.S. National Speed Skating Development team, Adam Green (Cleveland, Ohio) the fastest Buffalo qualifier and a member of the 2008 Silver Medal winning 18U Inline World Championship team, Jay McKee a Buffalo Sabres Alumnus, and Tamara Stewart a Niagara Falls, NY Firefighter. Other American’s in the field included brothers Andrew and Daniel Bergeson, Brian Schack, Amanda Trunzo, and Ryan Weston who qualified to compete from other area’s of the US. Other Buffalo area qualifier’s included Daniel Buchanon, John Corda, and Eddie Spiesz. “It’s blown up in the US and we want to expand, there’s a lot of people in the US that you walk up to and especially like I go to school in St. Paul at a college. I’ll be like, ‘Hey, I have to miss this day and this day of class’,” Naasz recalled, “and (the teacher) will say ‘Why?’ and I’ll say, ‘I’m skating at Red Bull Crashed Ice event’ and they’ll say, ‘What the heck is that?’” “I want to be able to say I skate Red Bull Crashed Ice and they go oh my god that’s awe-
kids who just kinda wanna come and be here and the kids who want to come and be here and compete like me. I guess there’s two kind of divisions or segments of skaters that we have here.” Tigh Isaac added his own thoughts about the track, “The course is different, the atmosphere is completely different, there’s nothing remotely even the same.” Red Bull officials signed a three-year contract prior to this event, therefore Niagara Falls will play host to this event for at least another two By Thomas Morris, Jr. years. If the Niagara Falls event is able to attract the same some,” Cameron said with a smile, “The possibiliamount of fans as ties are endless. I just hope that the US realizes other cities Red Bull officials may have to consider what an amazing sport this is and the potential it extending the contract. has.” St. Paul, Minnesota the next stop on the tour can be seen as an example in the eyes of Cameron Naasz. The Course “It’s gonna be a huge crowd. We had 80,000 people there last year,” exclaimed Naasz, “I guar The Niagara Falls Red Bull antee 100,000 there this Crashed Ice course had a 70 ft. drop year!” when first built that was later made “The First time out I just only a 30ft. drop after it was deterTheir Roots mined by skating professionals that went with it, it was fine. the drop had skaters going too fast Skaters at the Red The second time I said ‘Oh into the first turn. Bull Crashed Ice have Boy’.” “(It was) a tough a large array of backtrack, but we all grounds that propelled --Former Buffalo Sabre them to where they are adapted, it was tough for everybody out Jay McKee today. From inline skatthere,” said Naasz talking about the first hill that ing, speed skating, ice who qualified with had a quick 30-degre drop. hockey, skate ramps, and the best time of even firefighting. 27.96 seconds. “I used to play “ This morning I was roller hockey and the rink on the track and twisted my ankle I played at as a little kid used to have ramps on pretty good. I’m dealing with that for Friday and Saturday nights,” said Green, “Being a this race,” Green said as he talked kid, I was a rink rat, I was always around. I would about his first heat race on Saturday get on the ramps when I could and go take a cruise December 1, “And it’s all a mental around those jumps and so that kinda got me interthing, like it happened this morning ested in the extreme sports aspect. And then I saw and you can think ‘ok, how do I need Red Bull Crashed Ice and I was in that age, and I to prepare?’” said that would be perfect.” “The day before I had a busted Fast forward several years, “then when I first shoulder and a bruised hand, so got to college I got an email just before winter you certainly take a beating on the break and there was a tryout in Michigan, so I figcourse, because you can never tell ured I would go and at least attempt it and I hadn’t exactly where your going to be, if competitively trained really hard for a few months, your going to fall, your gonna take after I was done with the Junior World circuit with your bumps and bruises,” Adam inline,” Adam continued. added, “but I guess that separates the (Continued on Page 9)
Former Buffalo Sabre Jay McKee (Photo Courtesy of Red Bull Crashed Ice Niagara Falls)
Red Bull Crashed Ice World Championships Make History In Niagara Falls, Canada Several From WNY Compete!
RED BULL / 9 (Continued from Page 8)
“So I went and tried out and placed first. A few weeks later they sent me to (Red Bull Challenge continued)
Munich (Germany). So that kind of experience and everything progressing quick and how fluid it was and Red Bull taking care of everything. It just made a good experience for me to want to continue doing it.” Tigh Isaac recalls how he got into the Red Bull Crashed Ice, “It’s a funny story; I’m a speed skater back home, in Salt lake City, I skate on the U.S. National Development team, trying to go to the Olympic trials and see how that goes,” he stated, “It would be really nice to be able to do that, but this (Red Bull Crashed Ice) is going on the big burner right now and speed skating is going on that back burner.” “Every Thanksgiving I have all the speed skaters over to my house, they are all in Utah because of skating. We found this Red Bull Crashed Ice on Youtube and I thought that’s cool, I could do that,” Isaac emphatically said, “I grew up racing mountain bikes, motor cross, other motor sports with speed, snowboarding, hockey, and speed skating. I thought ‘that’s every single one of those sports all combined into one.’” “Like I don’t know anyone that would have anymore experience in all these sports combined that would help with this one sport. I said, ‘this sport is made for me, I’m ready to go,’” he said
with a big smile, “And so I looked on their website and saw they had open tryouts. So I signed up for one of the qualifier’s, I went to St. Louis and skated in one of the flat-ice qualifier’s. I was in the top three.” “So out of all the qualifier’s in the US, 10 or 12,000 skaters, (Red Bull) take(s) the top 100 to the National Day that was in St. Paul,” Tigh said, “And because we didn’t have a World Cup team last year, because last year was the first year of the reach out, they took the top three finishers out of all the US athletes and paid for us to be on the team to travel to different spots. It has been a very rapid progression, from ‘I want to do this’, to ‘I am doing this’.” What does it take to be on Red
Khariton Vlasov, Russia, competes during elimination round. Buffalo Qualifier, Adam Green is behind Vlasov on the right. (Photo Courtesy of Red Bull Crashed Ice Niagara Falls)
Bull Crashed Ice? As in every sport each athlete trains differently in ways they think will catapult them to the winners platform. Green, Isaac and Naasz all added their bits advice for the promising Red Bull Crashed Ice skater. “Determination,” Cameron simply began, “I mean I want it, I want to do well, I know I can do well. I hit the gym every single day, I’m on the ice three, four, five times a week. You get out of it what you put in.” Tigh said he earned a sixth place finish in Sweden and how he approached
that race started three weeks prior to the event. “I mean like last year between the break the race the Netherlands and the race in Sweden, the three weeks break in between the two,” Isaac said’ “ actually stayed over in Europe the whole time. I was skiing in Sweden for a little while, just kinda like… to live it up.” Green had the most to say however, from working with US Red Bull Crashed Ice coaches, to hitting the gym and ideas of how to prepare for each course. “I trained a little bit harder (in 2011 for St. Paul), but certainly not as hard as I have been training for this season here, been doing a lot of off ice training, in the gym a lot, a lot of leg stuff and I have been having influence from coaches,” he continued, “they coach me in what I can do to set my self apart with those really unique drills that are gonna challenge the body for something such as Crashed Ice.” “You know people ask ‘what I should work on, what I should focus on’ and it breaks down to the strong leg skills and the strength of being able to continually skate and then adapt to different conditions,” Green instructed, “a lot of edge work and balance, knowing body position. I think it relates personally more on the ice than if someone is skiing.” (Continued on Page 11)
JUNIOR SABRES / 10
Junior Sabres: Leading The OJHL In Stats, Standings by Michael Mroziak
T
he only thing missing from the Buffalo Junior Sabres’ news announcements in recent weeks was the voice of legendary disc jockey (and “top 40” program host) Casey Kasem: “Climbing two spots in this week’s Top 20 is the Buffalo Junior Sabres…” Twice in the early stages of the Ontario Junior Hockey League season, the lone U.S.- based Junior “A” club in the league played well enough to twice earn an “honourable mention” by the Canadian Junior Hockey League as part of its weekly Top 20 ranking of more than 100 Canadian Junior “A” hockey teams in ten leagues from coast to coast, including the OJHL. On November 12, 2012, the Jr. Sabres actually made the CJHL’s Top 20, debuting at #11, falling one place to #12 the next week, and then climbing to #10 on November 26. The team remained tenth ranked the following week. The team then peaked at #8 in the Top 20 the week of December 10, 2012. Big wins against teams that once came to Buffalo expecting – and usually getting – one-sided routs certainly went a long way toward raising the Jr. Sabres’ standing in the CJHL. Head coach and general manager Michael Peca says it’s a testament to the players and their collective efforts. “They have all committed to putting in the work,” Peca said when the team first cracked the CJHL Top 20. “When we put work ahead of skill, we become a tough team to play against.” Among those who have stood out among the first place Junior Sabres are goaltender Parker Gahagen and forward Tyler Gjurich. Both played well enough to earn recognitions by the OJHL as the Goaltender and Player of the Month for November, respectively. Gahagen, the former Williamsville North high school standout, recorded seven shutouts through the first week of December. From late October into early November, Gahagen recorded shutouts in three consecutive home starts, including two games in a row (October 30 vs. MissisBuffalo Jr. Sabres sauga, NoGoalie Parker Gahagen. vember 6 vs. (Photo courtesy OJHL Images) Oakville and
November 8 vs. Georgetown). Through the first week of December, Gahagen won 20 of his 27 starts, with one of those seven losses coming in the shootout. He led all starting goalies who played in 25 games or more with a goalsagainst-average of 2.39 and a save percentage of .925 (although he ranked fourth in overall goaltending stats through this same time, the three leading goaltenders played, at most, only two thirds of the games in which Gahagen played).
College Commitments
By early December, two members of the Jr. Sabres confirmed their college plans, joining a veteran who has had his verbal commitment since his rookie season last year. On December 5, Nolan Sheeran (East Amherst, NY) announced via Twitter that he has committed to Canisius College beginning in 2014. He becomes the second current Junior Sabre to plan on skating for the Golden Griffins upon the conclusion of his junior career. Second-year forward Josh Kielich verbally committed to Canisius last year. Jr. Sabres defenseman Darrin Trebes informed the team in November of his intention to enroll at SUNY Fredonia next year. The Williamsville, NY native missed a little over a month due to a leg injury but has settled in nicely at the blueline, scoring one goal and five assists in 21 games through early December. Several players were putting up the kind of numbers that have kept college scouts visiting and talking, though it was still early in the process and not quite time to announce further commitments. Those are expected in the not-too-distant future.
Gjurich was brought to the Jr. Sabres with the thought he’d bring scoring punch. He has delivered and then some. On Buffalo Jr. Sabre Forward Tyler Gjurich. December 2, (Photo courtesy Buffalo Jr. Sabres) in the team’s Jr. Sabres in the Community 7-3 win on the The Jr. Sabres will host their sec road against ond annual Teddy Bear Toss on Tuesday, the Milton Icehawks, Gjurich became the first December 18 when they host the Toronto Lakeplayer in the OJHL to surpass the 30-goal mark, shore Patriots, beginning at 6:30pm. Fans are and as of December 10 increased his goal total to asked to bring a new, unwrapped teddy bear or 32 tallies. That was ten more goals than his nearother stuffed animal to the game. When the Jr. est rivals, former Jr. Sabre turned Icehawk Shane Sabres score their first goal, fans will be invited Bennett (Grand Island, NY) and Oakville Blade to throw the toys on to the ice in celebration. All Jonah Renouf. Six of Gjurich’s goals proved to be toys collected will be donated to the Buffalo Sagame winners. More telling is this statistic: of his bres Alumni, who in partnership with the Buffalo 32 goals only seven were on the power play. Two Police Department will distribute the toys to local came shorthanded in the same game (November families right before Christmas. 10 against Hamilton), while the rest have been The Jr. Sabres were also actively thinking of scored in full strength situations. others in the community right before the Thanks The Buffalo offense hasn’t all been about Tyler giving holiday. On November 15, the morning afGjurich. Several players have risen to the occater an exciting 5-4 overtime win at home against sion. Veterans Ryan Schmelzer and Josh Kielich the North York Rangers, a half-dozen members have contributed 25 and 24 assists, respectively, of the team appeared at the truck where 97 Rock while first-year forward Pat Egan has chipped radio personality DJ Jickster was living for a week, in with both goals and assists, with 16 of each raising food donations to support the Food Bank through the first week of December. of Western New York. Players taking part in 97 Max Mikowski, Nathan Pelligra and Nolan Rock’s “Operation: Rock Out Hunger” included Sheeran have added points while playing the sort Parker Gahagen, Derek Patterson, Max Mikowski, of lunch pail, blue collar styled hockey that WestTyker Gjurich, Josh Kielich and David Seward. ern New York hockey fans have always appreciThey helped collect items from passing motorists, ated. while Coach Peca spent some time on the air talk Even the rookies have developed into key ing about the team. contributors. After spending some games early in the season as scratches, NHL legacy players Ryall Ledyard and Brian Ruff have earned their way into the lineup and been productive players. Ledyard had five goals and four assists through early December, while Ruff added three goals and five assists. Mid-season rookie call-ups have also served well. Ben Casale (Lewiston, NY) has recorded eight points (one goal, seven assists) since joining the team from the Jr. Sabres (Buffalo Regals) midget ranks in November. Jason Heerdt, Ryan The Buffalo Jr. Sabres helped with 97 Rock’s Kuhn, Frank Hora and Nathan Sucese all recorded “Operation: Rock Out Hunger.” at least a point in sporadic stints with the club.
RED BULL / 11 (Red Bull Continued from Page 9 )
“Like the downhill racer that also helps a lot because the way courses are set up now you need more downhill background because we’ve got a lot of vertical drops with ice,” Adam continued. “With me it’s a little different and I kinda have a little more difficult time with it. I mean certainly with my background going up, rollerblading over ramps it helps. But you know I am getting on the mountain more skiing and that’s where I noticed it helps me a lot now.” Race Recap: Tidbits about each race an American skated in Round of 64 (a skaters bib number coincides with his place after the time trials) Cameron Naasz – first heat wearing bib# 1: Naasz cruises into second round with a smooth win. Cameron advanced to the second round.
Andrew Bergeson – eighth heat wearing bib# 24: Andrew came out to race today sporting red Zubas pants. He finished second and ran a smooth race, but it helped to have the last two competitors fall on a couple occasions. Andrew advanced to the second round.
Coming out of the starting gate in the elimination round were Jacob Plant, Canada; Adam Green, Ohio (Buffalo Qualifier), Khariton Vlasov, Russia and Simon Schaerf, Austria. (Photo Courtesy of Red Bull Crashed Ice Niagara Falls)
Brian Schack – eleventh heat wearing bib# 42: Brian started out his heat in the lead, but ended up getting second by a photo finish. Brian advanced to the second round.
Adam Green (Buffalo Qualifier) – second heat wearing bib# 56: Adam’s ankle and shoulder injuries slowed him to a distant fourth in his race ending his day.
Tigh Isaac – twelfth heat wearing bib# 27: Tigh ran a great heat but lost his balance in the second to last turn giving the third place skater a chance to take over. Tigh did not have enough time to recover and finished third eliminating him from the event.
Scott Croxall (CAN) – a regular on the Red Bull Crashed Ice tour in the sixth heat, wearing bib# 14: Anyone can go down or lose at any time. Scott was up ended by a hill halfway through the race and finished third, eliminating him from further competition and hurting his world ranking.
Daniel Bergeson – thirteenth heat wearing bib# 34: Daniel had a rough battle for second, but like sliding into a base across the finish line, Daniel came away with a second place finish pushing him ahead like his brother. Daniel advanced to the second round.
Quarter-Finals Cameron Naasz – this round he had to battle much harder in the second round as he maintained second place by mere hundredths of a second throughout the run. Adam Horst (CAN) a tour regular won the heat. Cameron advances to the third round. Andrew Bergeson – Andrew came out of the gates quick, but after an early collision and a big fall finishing in the top 2 was not possible. Andrew finished third and was eliminated. Brian Schack – Brian stumbled into the first dip and corner, slotting himself into third. He was never able to recover and ended his day. (Red Bull Continued on Page 17)
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FEATURE / 12 aniel Ohar is a Vietnam veteran. Three years ago Ohar was involved in an accident that left him disabled and wheelchair-
bound. Back in the early spring it was announced that the Buffalo Sabres Foundation, Buffalo Sabres Alumni Association and National Fuel joined together with the Veterans Affairs Western New York Healthcare System. The plan was to provide recreational on-ice services to local veterans using sled hockey and traditional stand-up hockey as a driving force for physical and emotional rehabilitation. Two new teams evolved from this and were called the Buffalo Sabres Sled Vets and the Buffalo Sabres Warriors. The three organizations involved have committed a total of $90,000 per year for the next three years to support the program. The funding will pay for equipment, uniforms and ice time, as well as tournament and travel costs. The partnership is a culmination of a relationship that started in the fall of 2011. That is when a free clinic, open to any disabled veterans in the WNY area, was held at Riverside Ice Rink. That first clinic, run by Norm Page, a USA Hockey Sled Disabled representative, drew 15 veterans who experienced sled hockey for the first time. Since then more than 75 veterans have participated in eight on-ice clinics. Enter Ohar. “I broke my back about three years ago,” recalled Ohar. “I got involved with the Veterans, who were taking care of me. “I had heard about this sled hockey and tried out for it. It’s been great so far. “I had never played the game before my injury. I wish I had now.
They all encourage each other. “The minute he hits the ice, he is smiling from ear to ear. And his skill level is still growing. “He is an amazing human being. To get out there and skate around the way he does, using his arms to move with and shoot the puck with. “He is my hero. I’m amazed at how strong and by Randy Schultz confident he is on the ice. “In everyday life, things can be tough at times for him. best thing I’ve ever done in But put him out on the ice my life. and he is an entirely different “I enjoyed it right away. person. There was a learning curve “It helps him get through for me, especially when it those tough days. I don’t know came time to try and control where he gets his strength the puck and balance myself from. all at the same time. Buffalo Sabres Alumni Rick Dudley welcomes “It’s a joy to watch him “With sled hockey Sabes Sled Team to the ice with Daniel Ohar come alive on that ice. It everything is done with the first in line, wearing Number 11. makes it all worthwhile.” hands and your arms.” (Photo by Janet Schultz) According to Page, the Ohar admits that he has Sabres vet hockey programs had his fair share of adjustare growing faster than anticiments with life since his pated. accident. “This has been a great outlet for me,” continued “We knew there were a lot of vets out there, ones who could play stand-up hockey and othOhar. “I also do hand cycling. ers who could play sled,” said Page. “But we had “It’s also been great to be on this team. I’ve enough that we could field two teams. gotten to meet a lot of other veterans who have “And with vets like Dan, he is one of those sucworse injuries than I do. cess stories. He has really caught on with the game “I think I’m doing pretty well. I have half my and really enjoys playing it and being around the body working. team. “There are a lot of guys around who aren’t so “I know that with the success we’ve had in fortunate.” Buffalo, we have Ohar has a very interesting thought on life. become a great “I’m a Christian and I believe that everyexample for other thing happens for cities who want a reason,” stated teams to follow. Ohar. “This was a And we’re very real hiccup in my proud of that aclife. complishment. “You just try “For and find your way something that and see what works started a little over for you. You try to a year ago to grow stay strong. so quickly is amazing. And then to have 30 athletes “The stronger I am, the less of a burden to go Dallas Texas four months after our program started and field two teams, I’ve never seen that I am.” before. Ohar’s wife and “Finally, to have the Sabres and National Fuel biggest supporter, jump in with their generosity, that pulled everything Jenny, has seen the difference sled hockey has together for us. It was just what we needed.” It was Page who came to the Veteran Affairs made in her husband’s Office in Buffalo and met with Pamela Kaznowski. life. “Norm came to my office one day,” remem “The veterans bered Kaznowski. “We met, we discussed and we hospital had called and talked. asked Daniel if he was “Those talks led to other meetings and before interested in playing you knew it we have what you see here today. hockey,” commented We’ve now actually had close to 100 come through Jenny. “So last January he came out for his first our doors asking about hockey. “A lot of this has been done by word of mouth. time on the ice. One veteran knows another veteran and it just “He immediately keeps growing. came alive. In my esti “I work with the vets as their recreation theramation, this is the best pist. thing that the VA could have ever done, collab- “This has proven once again that Buffalo is a hockey town. It is just a wonderful opportunity for orating with the Sabres our vets to take part in.” and National Fuel. “Just being around the guys has been great. “It was quite a bit for me to learn, especially the balance part. I really don’t have any stomach muscles, so it is hard for me to stay up sometimes. “I’ve been in it now for about a year. It’s the
Hockey is Therapy!
“This has proven once again that Buffalo is a hockey town.” -Norm Page
AROUND THE ASSOCIATIONS / 13
Around the Associations By Michael Mroziak, Thomas Morris Jr., Janet Schultz
Buffalo Regals
On January 19, 20 and 21 the Buffalo Regals 2003 team will be hosting 10 teams in a Super Series Tournament. Teams will be visiting from Dallas, Phoenix, London (Ont), Mississaugua, Pittsburgh, New Jersey and Philadelphia. Local teams playing include the West Seneca Wings, Regals and Rochester. The highlight of this tournament will be Dallas and Phoenix playing their tournament game against each other at the outdoor rink in East Aurora. All other games will take place at Holiday Twin Rinks. The Regals hosted a Super Series earlier this month with teams ranked in the top 20 in the nation from the US and Canada. The local teams were coached by Michael Peca and the Colorado team by Joe Sakic. The Buffalo Regals are the only US team in history to be allowed entry into the OMHA. The Pepsi Kids 1/2 ice league, sponsored by Pepsi Cola will begin soon with 12 to 16 teams of beginners. One of the largest spring leagues in the U.S., Dippin Dots had 100 teams last season.
Canandaigua
This past spring the Canandaigua School Board cut CA Varsity Hockey from the budget. It was reinstated for this season but the future is uncertain. In an attempt to ensure the program is there to stay, a group of concerned people formed “Friends of Canandaigua Hockey” to provide support for the years to come. This group will hold two fundraisers annually. The first is the Friends of Martha Svirchev Gathering, a special event that will be held at the New York Wine and Culinary Center, 800 South Main Street, Canandaigua. Cost is $40 per person and includes NYS produced wine, beer and food with several vendors set up throughout the first floor to serve patrons. There will be music and a raffle. Tickets are limited to 250 and will be sold on a first ocme, first serve basis. Martha was a huge supporter of CA Hockey, cheering on the team at every game. She passed away unexpectedly in 2006. In her memory, her family donated funds to build the varsity locker room, one of the nicest in the area, according to the Canandaigua Hockey Assn. The group will also hold a 50/50 Mega Raffle and a Gift Basket Raffle. Check out the Canandaigua Hockey Assn. website for details. Canandaigua is also holding a registration for the Canadaigua Knights’ 2012-13 Girls 10U/12U program. Birth years 2000 or later. It is open to girls with basic to advanced hockey skills. First practice is January 5, Noon to 1 p.m.
Jamestown Lakers Hockey
The Sport International Hockey Academy will be returning to the Jamestown Savings Bank Arena December 28 and 29 for their Winter Clinic Tour. This is for youth players, ages 6 to 14 years. SIHA will offer a two-day, threehour clinic, with emphasis on forward stride, backwards skating, passing, shooting and one-on-one techniques. For additional information visist http:// siha.com or all 1-800-724-6658.
Rochester Youth Hockey
Congratulations to Dave Maksymiu for being named Coach for the 2012 Eastern Junior Elite Prospects All-Star Game. Dave is a long time RYH coach, winning a State Championship with the RHY Midget AAA in 2006. He is a master certified coach through USA Hockey and served as an evaluator for the USA Hockey Select Festival. In addition to coaching the AAA U!6 this season, Dave coaches RYH’s Mite A2 team. Rochester Youth Hockey partnered with Maksymum Hockey to field a full season 16U team in the Eastern Junior Elite Prospects League for this season. The team qualified for the NYS Championships in dramatic form by beating a cross-twon rival 6-3 in the state play downs. They currently hold the highest winning perentage in their respective leaague.
Dynamo Take Silver by Kathy Griffiths Special to WNY Hockey Report Submitted Photo
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he Dynamo Harrow Hockey Team capped off an exciting spring season by taking the silver metal in St. Catherines. What makes this team so extraordinary, besides their incredible season they had, is that the team is the combination of truly elite 2003 players from Ohio, New York, Southern Ontario and Toronto, Canada. Coach Kenneth M. Franasiak stated “These young men came together and truly bonded as a team. This was a great opportunity for young hockey players to play with their peers from throughout North America in a very competitive elite level play.” This tournament is one of the most prestigious youth hockey tournaments in North America featuring the top teams across the world. Over 100 teams traveled to Southern Ontario in April for 3 days of exciting hockey competition. The Dynamo Team impressively skated their way into the finals where they secured a Silver medal with outstanding performances. What is even more impressive is that they did it with a total of 10 players. The Harrow Spring program will allow players to play together throughout North America. Our coaching staff did a tremendous job from our skills coach (Rick Ferroni) to the Goalie and Assistant Coach. Coach Ken Franasiak said “We are very, very proud of our boys. We had a fabulous season and truly look forward to next spring. To see what these remarkable eight and nine year old young men can do is a true testament to their hard work and dedication. The entire coaching staff is extremely proud as well as the entire organization. These boys have amazing skills and heart. Their hard work and drive made it a real pleasure to watch and we’re proud to be part of such an exciting season. We are already in the process of actively preparing for next season.” The program runs from April to the beginning of June. They will play 3-4 tournaments, all in southern Ontario and home ice will be at the Gala Center in Niagara Falls, Ontario. However, practice ice will be in a location that is convenient for all. The program will be similar to last year’s and consist of a broad spectrum of coaches from the U.S. and Canada focusing on skill development, team play and some good old-fashioned hockey fun. The team is holding a skate/tryout on Wednesday, December 12th at 4:45 p.m. at Hyde Park Arena. The cost is $10 per player. Additional information is available at www.harrowspringhockey.com.
FEATURE / 14
Young Author Shares His Experiences with Bullying And Encourages Young Players to Believe In Themselves!
By Randy Schultz
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ike many teenagers his age who have ever played hockey at any level, Mark Metzger dreamed of one day playing professional hockey in the National Hockey League. Unfortunately a major groin injury cut short those dreams. Now, at 19, Metzger is combining his hockey experiences with other real life experiences. He has channeled them into a writing a book, “Winner or Loser,” and a public speaking career. “Mark’s inspiration for writing his book came to him after having experienced many of the difficulties and hard choices a youth has to make during his school years. Having been a victim of bullying, Mark was motivated to start reaching out to other classmates who themselves were considered “losers” and less fortunate or picked on by others. “His caring attitude expanded beyond school into his life where he continues to apply the Biblical principles he learned and is still learning with his relationships with his family, his friends and others.” That explanation can be found on the back cover of his book. But Metzger explained it even more while enjoying a cup of coffee in a local Tim Horton’s. “I began playing hockey when I was about 11,” recalled Metzger, a native of Buffalo who grew up in nearby Tonawanda and still resides there. “I played for the Clarence Mustangs, the Buffalo Bisons, the Buffalo Stars and finally with the Buffalo Jr. Sabres. “Following that I got a tryout with a team up in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League (QMJHL) and played there for a couple of exhibition games. I came back from there and immediately got a tryout with a Junior A prospect team in Southern Ontario. “That’s where I hurt my groin pretty bad. I gave up my hopes of playing pro hockey at that point.” As the old saying goes, “when one door closes another one opens.” Which is exactly what happened to Metzger. “I first started setting my sites on coaching,” said Metzger, a graduate of Tonawanda High School. “First it was with skating instruction and
formed a school called “Precision Skating and Skills.” “I’ve also worked with a couple of different youth hockey organizations like the Niagara Jr. Purple Eagles and Wheatfield Blades. Plus, I’m running some hockey camps for kids, especially during the summer.” Then came the book. “Being in school, I saw kids get picked on a lot,” remembered Metzger. “It’s sad to say but it happens in hockey too,
“My family has always been one of faith and that is just the way I was brought up,” continued Metzger, the son of Gary and Nancy Metzger. “My family always believed in the fact that you have to be good to other people and give something “I would hear things like, back to them. parents have really molded ‘you shouldn’t be here’ as me“My into the person I am today. But a way to discourage me I’ve used the experiences of my grandmother, Lillian and grandfather, from continuing. But I Clyde’s experiences of over 90 years learned early on that you of life to use as a reference for myshould believe in yourself self.” and move on from there.” So where is it from here? with hazing and things --Author Mark Metzger “I’m headed in a hockey direclike that. tion,” answered Metzger, who has two “I should make it sisters, Julie and Jenna. “Hockey is a clear that the game of passion for me right now. hockey is a physical one. What happens on the ice “I’ve also gone out and have done some public is part of the game. speaking in middle schools as well as high schools. “It’s what happens off the ice is where there are “Where that takes me to I’m not really sure yet. problems. I had it happen because I was usually one I just want to help kids become better people and of the youngest as well as smallest players on most believe in themselves. of my teams. Maybe the best quote that sums up Metzger and “I would hear things like, ‘you shouldn’t be his beliefs comes from the Dr. Seuss book, “Oh, here’ as a way to discourage me from continuing. The Places You’ll Go.” But I learned early on that you should believe in “So…be your name Buxbaum or Bixby or Bray yourself and move on from there. or Mordecai Ali Van Allen O’Shea, you’re off to “I wanted to reach out to people in a good or Great Places! Today is your day! positive way. That’s when I began writing the book. “Your mountain is waiting. So…get on your “There are a lot of hockey and school stories way!” in the book. I go with the theme of never giving up Metzger is on his and he is hoping to help othand trying a little harder in each chapter. ers get on theirs.” “I actually dealt with bullying in the book before it became a major topic of discussion in the public. The book actually came out at about the same time that bullying became a major problem in schools. “So you might say timing was everything with my book.” Metzger also used his family experiences as an inspiration in the book.
Visit Our Website www.wnyhockeyreport.com
FEATURE / 15
Buffalo Hosts USA Hockey Sled Classic
a bit, especially moving time and other things around for us. And they made it happen. “Surprisingly, instead of having 10 teams like we originally thought we were going to have, we had 14. “We also had two teams this year that were made up entirely of military veterans. By Randy Schultz One was the Buffalo Sabres Warriors team Photos by Janet Schultz and the other represented the Washington Capitals. They faced each he third annual USA other in one of the games.” Hockey Sled Classic, preWhile it was a weeksented by the National end of competitive hockey, Hockey League and hosed it also had some interesting Buffalo Sabres Goalie Thomas Kintner makes a save. by the Buffalo Sabres, took side stories going on. place at Northtown Center at “It is always a great Amherst in Williamsville from time just falo. “You have people coming in November 9-11. to be from all parts of the country. The event was part playing “We talk to a lot of the of November’s “Come Play hockey, ” players from other teams and Hockey Month,” a joint effort comfind out things about them. We of USA Hockey and the NHL. mented make a lot of new friends that Each of the 14 comMason way. peting teams were affiliated Newbold, “And we’re really here to with NHL clubs including the who have some fun and play hockey. Sabres, New York Rangers, resides in That’s really what this is all Boston Bruins, Carolina HurNorm Page watches the Sled Hockey Lockabout.” ricanes, Chicago Blackhawks, action at Bud Bakewell arena. port and Colorado Avalanche, Dallas played Stars, Philadelphia Flyers, for the Pittsburgh Penguins, St. Louis Blues, Tampa Bay Kathleen Garvey heads down the ice. Sabres ‘A’ Division sled Lightning and Washington Capitals. hockey team. “But this The weekend culminated with the Nov 11 year was a little different. championship games. In the ‘A’ Division, the Stars “There was a team representing took home the title by defeating the host Sabres, the New York Rangers. Most were from 3-2. The ‘B’ Division crown went to the Capitals, the New who beat the Hurricanes, 6-0 in the title contest. York City Norm Page, a USA Sled Hockey rep, who area. also works with Hasek’s Heroes, coordinated this
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event. “Western New York has been a hotbed for sled hockey,” said Page. “This tournament was supposed to be held in Chicago. “But they had some problems with the ice. I got a call about eight weeks ago asking if I thought Buffalo could host the tournament instead of Chicago. “We just scrambled to make this happen because we didn’t want to lose this event. I went over the people at Northtown and asked them if they thought they could provide enough ice for us to play 35 games over a three-day period of time. “Thanks to Brad Waltz and Erik Guzdek, the duo coordinated everything for us. They talked to other people and soon things were coming together.” “Amherst Youth hockey helped us quite
Time for a Rest!
“We’re really here to have some fun and play hockey. That’s really what this is all about.” --
“Many had been hit by Hurricane Sandy and had sustained damage to their Kathleen Garvey homes. I found out from some of them that there were a couple of players who didn’t make the trip because they lost their home. “For most of them, this was a chance just to get away from their situation for the weekend and think about something else. While they didn’t win many games, I think just being here helped.” Kathleen Garvey played on the Buffalo Sabres Veterans team. She found the weekend very entertaining. “You get to meet a lot of new friends,” remarked Garvey, a native of Buf-
Mason Newbold fights for the puck as the Sabres took on the NY Rangers.
Buffalo Sabres Jeff DeGlopper takes on one of the NY Rangers.
MEN’S COLLEGIATE / 16 NIAGARA
After his 27save effort against Army on Nov. 9, Carsen Chubak became the first Niagara goalie to register three consecutive shutouts. Chubak is also now tied for third in NCAA history with three consecutive shutouts, in the company of goalies such as Jimmy Howard and Ryan Miller. The following day, at the sixth minute mark of the second stanza against the Black Knights, Chubak found himself again making history, earning the record for most consecutive shutout minutes (258.32) by an NU goalie. Chubak took the top spot from Greg Gardner who held the record with 232.38 minutes. As a result, for the fourth time in five weeks this season junior Carsen Chubak was named Atlantic Hockey Association Goalie of the Week. He was also named Atlantic Hockey Association Goaltender of the Month for October. Senior Giancarlo Iuorio recorded his first career hat trick against UConn November 2nd and was named AHA Player of the Week for the period ending November 4th. He had six points total over the two-game set. Freshman forward Matt Chartrain netted his first collegiate goal against UConn November 3rd. Classmate Hugo Turcotte earned his first goal as a Purple Eagle November 17th versus Robert Morris. The Purple Eagles entered the next to last game of the first half on a nation-best 11 game unbeaten streak and ranked 18th in the nation.
CANISIUS
Kyle Gibbons scored just 12 seconds into the game against RIT November 10th, the fastest goal for Canisius to start a contest in school history. The previous standard was 17 seconds, set by Rob Martin against Holy Cross on Nov. 3, 2001. In the same contest, junior Patrick Sullivan (Derby) led the Griffs to their first victory at RIT since 2007 with a personal-best three point night, netting his first career multi-goal game–including the game-winning third-period tally– and adding an assist. Junior defenseman Dustin McKellar netted his first collegiate goal October 20th against Western Michigan in his 37th career game. Former Buffalo Sabres forward Adam Mair, a 12-year veteran of the NHL, has joined the Canisius coaching staff as Director of Player Development. Mair played with four NHL franchises–Toronto (1998-01), Los Angeles (2001-02), Buffalo (2002-10) and New Jersey (2010-11). He helped three teams advance to conference finals, while helping the Sabres win the Presidents’ Trophy in 2007. Robert DeGregorio, Atlantic Hockey Commissioner, announced Canisius sophomore,
WNY MEN’S COLLEGE HOCKEY-by Warren Kozireski
Matthew Grazen (East Amherst), received an additional 7-games suspension as part of the Atlantic Hockey Supplemental Discipline policy for his checking from behind major penalty on Air Force’s junior, George Michalke on Thursday, October 25. After sitting out the first five through mid-November, the final two games come in the February 15-16 rematch with Air Force.
RIT
Dan Schuler (Webster) (pictured below) tallied the first goal of his collegiate career November 17th against Holy Cross. The two home loses November 9-10 to Mercyhurst and Canisius were historic for the program. RIT has now lost three straight home games overall for the first time since losing four straight during the 2005-06 season. The Tigers also failed to record a point during an Atlantic Hockey Association home weekend series for the first time and have lost three home games in league play for the first time since joining in 2006-07. Sophomore forward Brad Reid scored his first collegiate goal in RIT’s 2-2 tie at AIC November 2nd. Goaltender Josh Watson made 19 saves to record his first collegiate shutout, 3-0 at American International on November 3rd. Senior defenseman Chris Saracino played in his 100th collegiate game November 17th at Holy Cross. Former RIT forward Steve Pinizzotto netted his first two goals of the season November 6th with the Chicago Wolves of the AHL. They mark his first tallies since missing all of last season with an injury. RIT is a combined minus-85 this season as of December 6th (13 games). In comparison, RIT was a combined
plus-378 over the last three years, including plus 187 in 2009-10.
AREA NOTES:
• Robert Morris freshman goaltender Terry Shafer (Penfield) was named Atlantic Hockey Association Rookie of the Week for the period ending November 11th. He picked up his first career victory and shutout with the team’s 4-0 victory over Canisius with a 24-save performance to give the team their first victory in Buffalo since October 7, 2006.
GENESEO
The Knights ended the first half of the conference schedule tied for second place with Plattsburgh and a 6-1-1 record. Jack Caradonna, Zachary Vit and Rich Manley were in double figures in scoring with 18 different players scoring at least one goal over the first 12 games. The team had allowed two goals or fewer in each of their last four games with Adam Rubeniuk and Bryan Haude in net. Sophomore Justin Scharfe (Webster) netted his first goal of the year and fifth career tally November 17th against Potsdam. David Ripple and Rubeniuk were named SUNYAC Rookie and Goaltender of the Week respectively for the week ending November 18th. Ripple totaled five points, including a career-high four points in a win over Potsdam. Rubeniuk stopped 43 of 45 shots (93.3 percent) in Geneseo’s two wins. Freshman Devon Rice made his first collegiate goal count—a game-winner in the final minute of regulation to beat nationally ranked and previously undefeated Plattsburgh November 16th.
FREDONIA
The Jekyll & Hyde season for the Blue Devils continues. After winning their first three conference games while allowing just two goals, Fredonia dropped their next four allowing almost six goals per game. Senior Mat Hehr picked up where he left off last season offensively with a team-high four goals through 11 games with five underclassmen right behind him on the team point chart including freshmen Chad Bennett and Taylor Bourne. A 4-2 win on home ice against Elmira December 7th ended the skid and marked head coach Jeff Merideth’s 360th career win. The team has a rescheduled home date with Division I transition Penn State on December 11th—a game postponed due to the east coast hurricane Halloween week.
MEN’S COLLEGIATE / 17 BUFFALO STATE
November 17th against Cortland.
Losing three of their first six conference games had the Bengals looking for answers especially defensively after allowing an average of over three goals per against SUNYAC opponents. Upperclassmen were pacing the offense below team leader and sophomore Nick Melligan (Sanborn)(pictured with goalie). Mike Zanella’s (Ithaca) 11 goals had tied for first in the country. Senior Kyle Whipple (Tonawanda) scored his first goal of the season
BROCKPORT
The Golden Eagles had three wins in-conference, but had been shutout four times in their five SUNYAC defeats. Their freshmen were among their best players in goaltender Jared Lockhurst, who missed seven games with an ankle injury, which coincided with a five game winless skid. He sat second and fourth in the conference in save percentage and goals against
respectively. First year players Jesse Facchini and Shane Cavalieri were tied for the team scoring lead with defenseman Mike Hayward. Defenseman Chris Luker (Buffalo Jr. Sabres) picked up his first collegiate point December 8th against Western New England.
MCC
The Tribunes were piling up offense with 27 goals over the first five games in defense of the national title. Dan Going (Wilton) had two goals in a November 15th win over Broome CC, Dan Turgeon a hat trick November 11th against Hudson CC while Mike Boyd and John Papas (Irondequoit) each had three point games November 10th versus Hudson Valley. Boyd, Turgeon and Mark Woinicki were among the scoring leaders in the nation with goaltender Tom Dehr (Varysburg) third in goals against and save percentage. The Tribunes entered the break ranked first in the NJCCA poll and riding a nine-game winning streak.
ECC
The Kats were being paced offensively by Eric Mueller (Hamburg) and Mike Shumate (Niagara Falls), but stumbled into early December with a pair of losses to Hudson Valley dropping them to 6-5; though they were still ranked fifth in the NJCCA poll.
(Red Bull Continued from Page 11)
Daniel Bergeson – stumbled early and lost all his momentum he had gained, with the other skaters having a smooth race, he could not recover and ended his day. Semi-Finals Cameron Naasz – Again Cameron and Adam Horst finish one-two sending both skaters into the Finals, against Last year’s Red Bull Crashed Ice Champion Kyle Croxall (CAN) and Killian Braun (SUI). Finals Cameron Naasz – Cameron led for a majority of the race and all the way up to the second last turn where others had their competition, Kyle Croxall got the inside line on Naasz. Both skaters hit the wall and with Kyle in front he accelerated first. Cameron was at his mercy, not being able to gain enough speed into the last turn and down jump, into the finish. On to St. Paul With the next stop on the tour St. Paul, MN you can look for live coverage of that event and a review of the Niagara Falls event on the networks of NBC. “I gave myself a nice start here. I get to go back to my hometown,” said Naasz, “I get really stressed out before the races and I feel like going home and having all my friends and family there I’ll be a little more relaxed and maybe next time I won’t let Kyle pass me in the second last corner.” “St. Paul’s gonna be big this year. I have seen what the track looks like,” Cameron stated, “biggest trouble in St. Paul for everyone last year was the double jump at the bottom of the track. This year they’re gonna have four bumps there instead of two, they’re raising the starting gate higher, it’s gonna be a faster track.” “I have the potential (of finishing first in qualifying), I just need to put it together. I just hope I need to repeat what I did here,” he concluded. Adam Green added his own note for St. Paul, “I certainly would need to do well in St. Paul, that’s coming up next, but right now is a bonus for me, I wasn’t expecting to be here about three months ago, get in tune for the season here, get used to the downhill here and then I will go back home for two months to St. Mark and St. Paul where it will be more of that dire situation.” For those who come out to the Red Bull Crashed ice events, Adam has a note, “Enjoy It! There are so many people that come out here, it’s an awesome atmosphere. That’s what I am here to do is enjoy everything, take it in and just be happy. It’s a great event to be involved with.”
Tim Horton Classic To Benefit Hasek’s Heroes by Nick Penberthy, Founder Tim Horton Backyard Classic
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he Tim Horton Backyard Classic, a 3 on 3 charity ice hockey tournament is gaining significant traction in the Western New York hockey community. The tournament , now in its 5th year, has raised over $20,000 and featured players such as Justin Bailey (OHL Kitchener Rangers), Andrew Poturalski (University of New Hampshire), Parker Gahagen (Buffalo Jr. Sabres and NYS High School Hockey MVP), Matt Nuttle (USHL Youngstown Phantoms) and Pat Polino (USHL Chicago Steel), alongside many other Buffalo Jr. Sabres players. This year the proceeds will go to Hasek’s Heroes, an organization which allows children of low-income families to play hockey at no cost to the family as well as supporting them off the ice with their education. The money will be used to build an educational center in one of the ice rinks owned by Hasek’s Heroes to assist in not only the development of the kids from Hasek’s Heroes but those from South Buffalo as well. This year the tournament will be centralized at the Rose Garden (2753 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221) on January 12th and 13th from 9 a.m. to approximately 8 p.m. They are expecting 96 teams playing over a two-day period on four outdoor ice rinks. There are four divisions (Middle School, High School, College, and Adult) each having 24 teams. Through the help of major sponsors such as Tim Hortons, the Buffalo Sabres, City Fence, New Era, The Mac Groups, they are looking to raise an additional $15,000 this year. If you would like to register either go to our Facebook page www.facebook.com/backyardclassic or www.timhortonsbackyardclassic.com . There is a $125 registration fee for a team of 3 players and 1 goalie. All participants are guaranteed three 20-minute games and an official Tim Hortons Backyard Classic T-shirt.
WOMEN’S HOCKEY / 18 Buffalo State
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he Bengals are off to a 4-6-1 record as they move into the holidays. Leading scorers are Courtney Carnes with 4 goals/6 assists; Kara Goodwin, 3 goals/5 assists; Lauren Mallo 1 goal/6 assists and Buffalo’s Nikki Kirchberger with 4 goals and 2 assists, including two goals in a 3-2 victory over Cortland. Kara Goodwin scored with 50 seconds left in the third period to take the opening game against the Red Dragons into overtime. The Bengal outshot Cortland 25-21 with Goalie Jordan Lee making 20 saves. In game two Buffalo outshot Cortland 23-19 with Lee having 17 saves. It was Pink the Rink on December 7 and 8 with Jean Galbo taking the ceremonial puck drop on Friday night. Galbo is an 8-year cancer survivor. The Bengals also held a bake sale and sold tee shirts with proceeds going to breast cancer research. The Bengals lost two games to Plattsburgh prior to the Cortland doubleheader. Carnes was named ECAC Player of the Week for November 13 after leading the team to a pair of conference wins over Chatham. She had a goal and an assist in the 4-1 victory and a goal and assist in a 5-0 shutout. Freshman Nikki Kirchberger was named ECAC West Rookie of the Week for Dec. 9 after her performance in two games against Cortland. Buffalo returns to the ice January 5 hosting Adrian College (Michigan) at 8 p.m.
RIT
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n their first year as a D1 program, the Tigers are 6-9-2 after dropping the last five games, including two on their trip to North Dakota. They have had many highlights in this history-making season. The team headed west to take on North Dakota at Ralph Engelstad Arena on November 30 and December 1. North Dakota is ranked eighth in the USCHO.com Division 1 poll and come to face the Tigers with a 5-game winning streak. The Tigers put forth a valiant effort but lost both contests with 3-2 scores. Sophomore Goaltender Ali Binnington was named the CHA Co-Goaltender of the Week for November 19 after stopping all 18 shots she faced against Brown in a 2-0 victory. She made a great skate save early in the second, then stopped a partial breakaway late in the frame. She is 4-1-1 on the season with a 1.88 goals against average and a .914 save percentage. This is her first weekly honor this season and in her career. Leading the score board for the Tigers are Captain Kim Schlattman with 8 goals and 2 assists; Ariane Yokoyama with 3 goals/7 assists; and Kourtney Kunichika, 3 goals/6 assists.
Women’s Hockey Report by Janet Schultz Photos by Janet Schultz
Before breaking for the holidays, RIT takes on Lindenwood. The Tigers return to the ice January 4 and 5 against to face CHA rival Robert Morris.
Cortland The Red Dragons leave December with a 1-9-1 record and return to their home ice on January 8 against Hamilton College at 4 p.m. Cortland ended their season at Buffalo State with a 1-1 tie and a 3-2 loss. The Red Dragon’s freshman goalie, Deanna Meunier, was named ECAC West Women’s Ice Hockey Rookie of the Week for December 2. Meunier stopped 66 of 69 shots on goal and posted a 1.50 goals against average in two contests over Potsdam. She turned away 30 of 31 shots in a 6-1 victory over the Bears and the following day registered 36 saves in a 2-0 loss. On the season Meunier has registered a .927 save percentage and a 2.91 GAA.
Cornell
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he Big Red don’t return to the ice until January 12 when they go to face Northeastern. They are 10-3 on the season with Brianne Jenner leading the scoring with 9 goals and 10 assists. She is followed closely by Jillian Saulnier with 5 goals and 13 assists and Lauriane Rougeau with one goal and 11 assists. Jenner racked up a career high six points in a game against Colgate earning her ECAC Hockey Player of the Week honors for November 20. This was Jenner’s third honor, earning it twice last season and Rookie of the Week three times during her freshman year. Freshman Taylor Woods, who had five points in two games against Colgate, was named the league’s Rookie of the Week. Cornell rebounded after losing to St. Lawrence on a Friday night and then with blocked shots and excellent penalty killing beat St. Lawrence 4-2 the next day. Jessica Campbell had the game-winner after the Big Red killed off nine penalties and blocked 18 shots.
University of Buffalo
The Lady Ice Bulls, who play in the American Collegiate Hockey Association D1, ACAH program were 4-8-1 as they moved into De-
cember. The team is off until January 18 when they will take on Niagara University’s club team--featuring a number of their former D1 players. They will then be on-the-road to Vermont to play in the Vermont Catamont. Leading the score board is Chrissy Wolcott with 14 goals and 4 assists; Katelyn Botewell, 10 goals and 2 assists. In Goal Melinda Reek as a 1-3-1 record with a 4.5 GAA and .86 save percentage and Goalie Chelsea Petrs has played in 7 games recording a .855 save percentage and 4.17 GAA. On January 18 they will face the Niagara University Women’s Club team at Dwyer Arena, NU, at 8 p.m. Their next home appearance will be February 1 at 9 p.m. when the University of Massachusetts faces off at Northtowns Arena at 9 p.m.
Niagara University Women’s Club Ice Hockey
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he Niagara University Women are 9-0-1 on the season after a 9-4 win and 4-4 tie with Ohio State’s team. They return to the ice at home on January 18 against cross-town rivals the University of Buffalo Lady Ice Bulls. Lauren Fontaine has logged 28 goals and six assists on the season, followed by Natash Fryer with 24 goals and 4 assists. In goal is Danene Stevens who after 10 games has a 2.50 GAA.
WNY Girls Varsity Ice Hockey Federation
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ell the season opened with all seven inaugural teams returning to the ice. The League is still asking high schools to take a look at fielding a team or joining with another school district to bring more girl’s varsity ice hockey to WNY. After 13 games (12/7/12) it’s Monsignor Martin in the lead with 3 wins, no losses and 6 points. They are followed by Williamsville (3-1-0), Orchard Park/Frontier (2-2-0), West Seneca (1-1-0), Kenmore (1-2-0), Amherst/ Sweet Home (1-2-0) and Lancaster (0-0-0). These girls are playing with a lot of heart, some with little experience and mostly with passion for the game. Lancaster and West Seneca are carrying short benches and several teams are carrying only one goalie. So what do you do when you have one goalie and she goes down? Well in the case of Amherst/Sweet Home in a game against West Seneca, another player goes in while another player goes to the dressing room to suit up to serve as goalie for the rest of
WOMEN’S HOCKEY / 19 Buffalo Bisons Report The Buffalo Bisons continue to hold on to the top spot as far as Tier I organizations are concerned in New York State. The Buffalo Bisons field girls teams at all five age levels- U10, U12, U14, U16 and U19. All teams maintain a minimum of a top 20 rank in the Nation at the Tier I level. The U10 Bisons are a obviously young team with a bright future under the leadership of David Carlon. The team participates in the Lower Lakes Female Hockey League that plays in Southern Ontario. The team has played in a number of tournaments this year including the Bauer Invitational in Detroit last month. Dave is also associated with a spring / summer program that adds additional skill development for those kids that are looking for a little extra in the off-season. The Bisons look forward to having this next group of girls come through the ranks of top hockey in the region. Our U12 team continues to thrive with the coaching of Matt Robinson who is in his third year with the Bisons. The U12 team is a solid participant at the Tier I level and also plays in the LLFHL in Southern Ontario and played in the Bauer event. The team is currently ranked 16th in the Nation.
The U14 team under the coaching of Scott Welch is off to another successful year and is currently ranked 7th in the Nation. After an overtime loss in the championship game at the Stoney Creek Showcase and getting to the quarterfinals at the Bauer Invitational the team has gone into what they consider a quiet period as many of the girls are participating in the local high school leagues. The team made the decision to cut back on the scheduling of practices and games so that the players can play on their high school teams and also tend to their studies. For those players that want or need additional ice, the organization provides two optional weekly practice sessions. The U14 team will kick back up for the Connecticut Polar Bear Tournament over the December holiday before pushing for the State tournament in March that Syracuse is hosting. The U16 team is being led by Dave Smith when he is free from his duties of coaching the Canisuis College Men’s Varsity Hockey Team. The U16 team is also off to a solid start this year and has participated in the Cleveland Ignite and the Manon Rheume Invitational among others. The U16’s will also be at the Polar Bear over the holiday. The U19 team is also coached by Scott Welch
and is currently ranked 11th in the Nation. The U19 team has also gone into a similar split season mode to allow the girls to play for their high school teams and will participate in the Polar Bear. The U16 and U19 teams are hosting the State Championships in March. In general, all Bisons teams have a skating skills session each week throughout the season and this additional attention with professional instructors proves to be extremely valuable in a player’s development. The Bisons equally provide a goalie skills session each week with Bob Janosz taking the lead. Bob runs a number of local camps and also is a professional goalie coach. The USA Hockey Tier I National Championships for the U14, U16, and U19 this year is being held is San Jose, CA the first week in April. We hope that all three of the Bisons teams will be fortunate enough to represent NYS at this prestigious event. (Submitted by the Buffalo Bisons)
Women’s Column Continued the game. Katz (Amherst/Sweet Home)Goalie Kara Rea was injured during the first period and taken off the ice by her coach and trainer. After bench discussion Casey Adimay went to the net while Missy Mallon went to the dressing room to suit up. In the end it was 9-7 in West Seneca’s favor but it was a hard-fought, goal-scoring and high-energy game which no one could have predicted the outcome. Two games have had to be rescheduled. The season opener of West Seneca vs Kenmore was postponed and a new date will be announced. The Monday, Dec. 10 game with Monsignor Martin vs Amherst/Sweet Home has been rescheduled to January 7 at 3:50 p.m. at Holiday Twin Rinks due to the injured goalie. Some noteworthy news items include five sets of sisters playing for Orchard Park/ Frontier under Coach Jim McCarthy and two sets of sisters at West Seneca with Coach Pete Tonsoline. And for those who want the really hold fashioned hockey try an outdoor game at the rink in East Aurora. The East Aurora Rink is historically significant because it is the ice surface that the first-ever NHL outdoor game was played on at Ralph Wilson Stadium in Buffalo between the Buffalo Sabres and Pittsburgh Penquins. The next game scheduled for that rink is January 10 when Williamsville faces Lancaster at 4 p.m. Bundle up and bring your hot chocolate! The entire league schedule and standings can be found at www.girls4varsityicehockey. com. In addition to regular season play there will be the Section 6 Championship on February 6, the New York State Tournament on Feb-
ruary 8 and 9 in Canton and the Federation Championship on February 15. Games are open to the public at no cost. Many of the teams are doing various fundraisers through their Booster clubs or parents/friends. This is an ideal place to bring your girl teams and support girl’s hockey! Breaking News: Williamsville’s Sarah Scolnicki was named Super 7 Athlete of the Week for December 9.
WNY Girls Hockey Action...
...Ithaca held their Shooting Stars Tournament this weekend; with the Ithaca U19 team keeping their championship trophy at home. At the 16U Division it was Lysander; 14U: Troy; 12U, Amherst and 10U, Cazenovia. The 10U Caz team went undefeated in the tournament. This year’s Shooting Stars Tournament coincides with the 40th Anniversary of Tomkins Girl’s Hockey Association. ...Scott Then has been named coach of the Empire West Girl’s Ice Hockey Team. Info will be on their Facebook page.
Injured Goalie (above left) is tended to, temporary replacement comes in (above) and Acting Goalie Missy Mallon(left) makes a save. (Photos by Janet Schultz)
Scenes from action in the WNY GVIH Federation games. (Janet Schultz Photos)
FEATURE / 20
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“I grew up playing hockey in the winter t is a Thursday morning in late August at Cazenovia Rink in Buffalo. Outside the temperatures and golf in the summer. Of course once I got to Florida my hockey career was finished and are hovering around 75. I played golf 12 Inside the rink the temp months a year. is around freezing. Profes “I think that sional golfer Dudley Hart is turned out to me a seated at a table watching good move on my two of his children skating part,” he continued around the rink. with a big smile. “I So what is one of the top don’t know how far professional golfers in the I would have gone world doing in a hockey rink with my goaltending on a bright, sunny August career.” day? Shouldn’t he be play Which is an ing golf? by Randy Schultz understatement. Hart “I love the game of Randy@wnyhockeyreport.com turned pro in 1990 and hockey and my kids are joined the PGA Tour in involved in it,” answered 1991. Dudley. “They were asked Hart has won two to come down to particitournaments on the PGA Tour, the first coming in pate in some ice skating activities with the Buffalo 1996 at the Bell Canadian Open. Shamrocks. The second was at the 2000 Honda Classic. “So I decided to tag along.” He also finished in a three-way tie for first in While the Rochester native may know a lot the 2004 EDS Byron Nelson Championship, which about hockey and has even played it, there is no he and Robert Damron lost in a playoff to Sergio doubt that golf is where his heart is. Garcia. “I grew up playing hockey in the Western Although Hart has won only two PGA tournaNew York area,” recalled the 44 year-old Hart. “I played in the Buffalo Southtowns area right up until ments, he is considered one of the most consistent players on the Tour. He has more than four dozen I would have gone into the Pee-Wee level of the top-10 finishes, including several second and third game. place finishes. “That’s when my family moved to the Miami, Florida area. That kind of ended my hockey career. A resident of Clarence, while Hart spends a great deal of time on the golf course, he still re “I was a goalie up until that time. My passion serves some time for the ice rink. for the sport came from my dad. He had season “What I love about this game of hockey, and tickets for the Buffalo Sabres.
Golfer Dudley Hart and His Love of Hockey
what I have learned about the sport since I began playing it as a kid, is the type of athlete that plays the game,” who is married to wife Suzanne and have triplets, Ryan, Rachel and Abigail. “I’ve gotten to know a lot of NHL players, interestingly enough through golf. “Hockey players love to play golf. The classiest group of athletes I’ve ever met are hockey players. Hockey is a true team sport. “That’s why I like the fact that my kids (Ryan and Rachel) are involved in the game. It’s a team sport and you can learn so much by being on a team. “It’s a great sport to stay active with in the winter time. They have a great group of friends that they hang around with. “My son and daughter just can’t get enough of it.” So why was Hart a goalie?
(Continued on Page 23)
SPONSORS / 21
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“PUCK HOG” / SPONSORS / 22 HOCKEY MOM PUBLISHES SECOND BOOK! By Janet Schultz
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yracuse Hockey Mom Christie Casciano has published the second “Puck Hog” book. This time the hockey action includes some mystery in the most recognized town for hockey--Lake Placid. “Haunted Hockey in Lake Placid” is an actionpacked adventure for the puck hog and his teammates. Just when they see victory, things begin falling apart. Sophia meets a stranger who seems to make miracles happen. Will another ‘miracle on ice’ take place in Lake Placid? Author Christie Parents will find “The Puck Hog” series to contain Casciano, as a Hockey messages to them and their children about self esMom, fixing her daughteem and making decisions themselves. ter’s stick. (Casciano Casciano’s books can be found at Barnes and Noble photo) stores and through Amazon.com. Casciano also has a website where she interacts with hockey parents on a varsity of topics. Go to www.thepuckhog.blogspot.com and become a fan on Facebook!
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PUCCS / 23 Interestingly, Hart moved his family back to Western New York just before the triplets were of “Because I got to play all the time,” answered school age. Hart. “I would also watch them on TV and nobody “I remember my years in school here in Westever messed with a goalie. ern New York,” remembered Hart. “I didn’t want “I think the goalie is the most important part of my kids getting their school education in Florida. a hockey team. I don’t care how great your team is “So that’s why we moved back here to Clarence.” scoring-wise, if you have a bad goalie you’re prob- And immediately got involved with hockey as a ably going to struggle. parent. “But I just simply wanted to play the whole “I talked to a friend of mine, Bill Wippert, who game and be out there all the time. And being a had his daughter involved in the Shamrocks hockey goalie afforded me that opportunity. organization,” continued Hart. “The Shamrocks “I enjoyed being that important became a great fit for my kids and part of the team. The last line of “It’s fun to teach our family.” defense, so to speak. Another close friend of Hart’s is kids. I had a blast Sabres head coach, Lindy Ruff. “I also remember those early doing it.”-morning hours for practice as well as “I got to know Lindy back in the some of the game. I’ve gone through mid-1990s when he was an assistant that again now with my kids, alGolfer Dudley Hart coach with the Panthers,” said Hart. though now they’re getting older and “He was taking some golf lessons practices don’t come as early. from my brother in-law. “Thank goodness I’ve always “We were introduced to each other been a morning person, so those early mornings and have been friends ever since.” I had to get up as a kid, around five or six, really Just how addicted to hockey is Hart today? didn’t bother me.” “I’m a season ticket holder with the Sabres,” Although Dudley lost contact with hockey Hart responded. “I take my kids on at least one road after moving to Florida, he did his best at trying to trip a year. reconnect with it in later years. “I’m involved as a hockey parent. I love watch “When the NHL expanded to Florida with the ing my kids play. Panthers, I was one of the first 15 or 20 people who “I watch them have fun with it. signed up for season tickets,” said Hart. “Hockey “When I’m on the road playing golf, I don’t wasn’t on TV as much down there either. miss games. I’ve got it on my laptop computer. “ “But I did my best at keep track of what was going Unfortunately for the last three years Hart has on, hockey-wise.” been on the sidelines with his golf game. He suf(Dudley Hart Continued from Page 20)
P
UCCS, which stands for Program for Understanding Childhood Concussion and Stroke, hosted its second annual hockey charity tournament Thanksgiving weekend. “The second annual PUCCS charity hockey tournament raised even more funds than last year and it was By Michael Mroziak a tremendous success,” said Dr. Elad Levy, professor of Neurosurgery and Radiology for the University at Buffalo Neurosurgery, Inc. and founder and president of PUCCS. PUCCS raised more than $100,000 thanks to generous donors from WNY and beyond. PUCCS will use the money raised to educate athletes, coaches, parents and others about concussions and fund research to allow experts to better understand and, therefore, treat concussions. The success of the second annual PUCCS hockey charity tournament will allow the organization to “continue to raise awareness through direct interactions with children in their school and sports environment,” Dr. Levy said. Throughout the weekend, youth teams competed amongst each other for a championship trophy and adult teams participated in a USA Hockey-sanctioned tournament at Holiday Twin Rinks in Cheektowaga, NY. Local Laborers 210, the adult team that raised $10,000 (the most money of any team), had the opportunity to play against the Buffalo Sabres Alumni on Sunday. The Sabres Alumni defeated Local Laborers 210. In the middle of the Sabres Alumni game, the players took a break to sign autographs for fans. Andrew Peters, Matthew Barnaby, Jay McKee, Rob Ray and others participated in the alumni game and autograph session.
PUCCS:
fered a herniated disc in his back in 2003. Following his return, Hart had to take six more months off in 2007 to care for his wife who had a softball-sized tumor removed from her lungs. In 2009 Hart had spinal fusion surgery. “I got into coaching with my kids teams,” stated Hart. “It helped me keep my sanity and kept me busy. “It’s fun to teach kids. I had a blast doing it. “And I now have a greater respect for those coaches and the time and effort they have to put into coaching. “In the end it was fun. And having fun is what is all about when you are playing youth hockey. “That’s what the Shamrocks are all about. They’re organized and they want their players to have fun. “You want them to get better. Learn a team sport. “I want my kids to achieve their dreams. I’ve already achieved mine. “I don’t care what their dream is. But have one and make the most of it. “And have fun.”
The Outcome of the Tournament!
$102,500 check presented was to the PUCCS organization to continue its’ efforts in preventing and treating concussions. Taking part in the presentation were Mike Answeeney (left) and Dr. Levy (right). (Submitted photo)
Former Buffalo Sabre Mike Robitaille handled MC duties prior to the game and Buffalo Sabres Anouncer Harry Neale served as play-by-play announcer. On the ice penalty shots were scored by Matthew Barnaby and Richie Dunn. Dunn used the butt end of his stick to control the puck and did a 363 deke. Goalie Nick Bado made key saves and Andrew Peters played enforcer, protecting his goalie and teammates, leading the Alumni to victory. For more information about PUCCS, visit PUCCS.org.
WHEATFIELD BLADES PAGE / 24
Wheatfield Blades Squirt Minor Win Detroit Motown Tournament First Row- Corey Westfall, 2nd row-Anthony Cianciosa, Addison Zacker, Logan Macdonald, Blake Dewey, Hunter Hollock. 3rd Row- Jeremy McDonald, Hugo Berguman, Benny Shapiro, Noah Daniels, Andrew Mallone, Adam Franasiak. Back Ro- Team MGR Dave McDonald, Asst. Coach Ken Franasiak, Head Coach Fred Mallone
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he Wheatfield Blades, playing up a division in the Detroit Motown Tournament, persevered to victory after a devastating first game loss to Oshawa Generals 7-3, Wheatfield then went undefeated in the tournament beating Bowling Green ice cats 4-3, West Mall lighting 7-1, and then Facing Bowling Green in the semi finals and beating them in a nail biter 1-0. Now with that behind them they faced the undefeated generals for the championship. “We knew it wasn’t going to be easy playing up a division and we were there to win it all and we had to win every battle and never give up,” said Head Coach Fred Mallone. “We had heart and determination! And every player left it all on the ice every shift I couldn’t ask for more out of my boys. “ I’m so very proud of them. “We needed to prove that we were a better team than in that first game and they did just that.” Oshawa scored first in the game but Wheatfield came back with a vengeance never giving up and winning every battle with penalties 6-0 for Oshawa the Wheatfield boys battled their way every shift to a 5-2 victory.
WWW.WHEATFIELDBLADES.COM
Wheatfieldblades.com
BUFFALO STARS PAGE / 25 Buffalo Stars Junior Chowder Cup Team The Buffalo Stars will enter a team in the New England Pro Am Junior Chowder Cup in the 1997 Division. This division is open to elite players at the 1997 birth year who are able to compete at a very high level against similar aged players from all over North America. The Tournament will be held in the Metropolitan Boston area July 25th - 28th in Walpole, Foxboro, and Canton, MA. This team will also compete in one or two other tournaments and will engage in 2-3 practice sessions prior to each event.
Initial tryouts for this team will be held at Holiday Twin Rinks: Thursday, December 27 3:00-4:15pm Pre-Tryout Application is available on the Stars website.
Visit the Chowder Cup on line at: www.proamhockey.com Visit the Stars on line at: www.buffalostars.com Buffalo Stars Senior Chowder Cup Team The Buffalo Stars will enter a team in the New England Pro Am Senior Chowder Cup in the College Prep Division. This division is open to elite players aged 16-19 who are able to compete at a very high level against Junior aged players from all over North America. The Tournament will be held in the Metropolitan Boston area July 18th - 21st in Walpole, Foxboro, and Canton, MA. This team may also participate in one other event in May or June. There will be 3-4 practices prior to each event.
Initial tryouts for this team will be held at Holiday Twin Rinks: Thursday, December 27 1:30-3:00pm Pre-Tryout Application is available on the Stars website.
Buffalo Stars 2000 Spring Team The Buffalo Stars will enter a team in the New England Pro Am Mini Chowder Cup in the 2000 division. This division is open to elite players at the 2000 birth year who are able to compete at a very high level against similar aged players from all over North America. The Tournament will be held in the Metropolitan Boston area August 2nd - 4th in Walpole, Foxboro, and Canton, MA. The Stars will also enter the Niagara Bauer Challenge April 19th - 21st in Niagara Falls as well as one other event yet to be announced. The team will also engage in 2-3 practices prior to each tournament.
Initial tryouts for this team will be held at Holiday Twin Rinks: Thursday, December 27 4:15-5:30pm Pre-Tryout Application is available on the Stars website.
Buffalo Stars Select Chowder Cup Tryouts The Buffalo Stars will enter 3 teams in the New England Pro Am Chowder Cup Series this year in the 2000 division; 1997 division and Senior (96-93) division. This series is open to high-end, skilled players who are able to compete at a very high level against similar aged players from all over North America. The Tournaments will be held in the Metropolitan Boston area in Walpole, Foxboro, and Canton, MA as follows: (July 18-21 for Senior; July 25-28 for 1997’s; and August 2-4 for 2000’s) These teams will also compete in one or two other spring/ summer tournaments and will engage in 2-3 practice sessions prior to each event.
Initial tryouts for these teams will be held at Holiday Twin Rinks: Thursday, December 27th: 1:303:00pm for the Senior Division Thursday, December 27th: 3:004:15pm for the 1997 Division Thursday, December 27th: 4:155:30pm for the 2000 Division Pre-Tryout Application is available on the Stars website.
SUCCESS IS A MARATHON: ONE SHIFT AT A TIME
MENTAL TOUGHNESS & TOURNAMENT RESULTS / 26 A Gift for Teens -That Will Change Their Life! (Submitted by Wendy Lynne, Mental Toughness)
H
ow many gifts do you give the teens in your life, that get used once or twice, then it sits on their shelf or in the back of their closet? Or worse yet, you can’t get them to STOP playing the brain-numbing video game you bought them under pressure. Introducing a brand new, cutting edge Mental Toughness Training for Youth Athletes that builds confidence, focus, determination and resiliency in their sport. The online training has 23 fun-to-watch and interactive videos and 8 guided visualizations they can listen to before their big game or event. We made sure your teen would actually enjoy watching them and that it does not feel like another “school assignment.” The downfall of playing sports Most parents get their kids involved in sports to learn important life lessons like team work, determination, follow-through, and motivation. Unfortunately though, there are times when athletes make mistakes or have a “bad” season and they can end up having a negative experience. Ours Mental Toughness Training for Youth Athletes gives kids the tools and techniques to overcome any negative thought or situation and quickly bounce back. It is also perfect for those athletes looking to take their game to the next level to be eligible for a college scholarship or to go on to the pros. This training helps assure parents that their kids will walk away from playing their sport with a positive experience, whether they are winners or losers. Easy to purchase and use. The Mental Toughness Training
for Youth Athletes is a no-hassle gift. Order it online and your kids will use it online. There is nothing to ship, wrap or wait for. It can be watched on their computers, ipads, cell phones or ipods at anytime and any place. “It’s like having a coach in your pocket”, says Craig Sigl, the Mental Toughness Trainer. The training is good for the entire household, so if you have more than one kid, there are no extra costs. The kids get lifetime access, so they can go back whenever they need a boost or a reminder. Go to hockeymentaltoughness.com to learn more. Who is the Mental Toughness Trainer?
Mental Toughness Academy was created by Craig Sigl, internationally-known Youth Sports Mental Coach, who has helped thousands of youth athletes to overcome performance anxiety, stop choking under pressure and bring their “best” practice game to competition. More importantly, his work teaches powerful skills that flow into schoolwork, family life and fitting in. Building mental toughness ensures athletes have incredible everyday winning confidence and helps to shape youth athletes into productive, competent adults. Send an email to us to receive more information and/ or place an order. Be sure to ask about our Mental Toughness Training for Catholic Athletes coming out soon.
To Learn More Go To: www.hockeymentaltoughness.com
2012 NJPE Thanksgiving Invitational Tournament Results On Behalf of the Niagara Jr. Purple Eagles I would like to express our sincere appreciation to all the teams for participating in this seasons Thanksgiving Invitational. Just as your teams, our volunteers work hard to make these events a fun and enjoyable experience for everyone! It was great to see many children playing with so much excitement as well as having so many enthusiastic spectators. It’s memorable weekends like these that truly indicate what youth hockey has to offer and we hope to share more of them with you in the future.
Bantam Minor Purple Champions – Niagara Jr Purple Eagles Niagara Jr Purple Eagles 5 vs Cheektowaga Warriors 2
Congratulation to all the Division Winners and Runner Ups!
Girls 14U Champions – Ancaster Avalanche Ancaster Avalanche 5 vs West Seneca Wings 0
Mite Marvel Champions – Erie Lions Black Erie Lions Black 5 vs Buffalo Bisons Black 2 Mite Avengers Champions – Niagara Jr Purple Eagles –B Niagara Jr Purple Eagles 8 vs Amherst Knights Black 1 Squirt Minor Champions – Buffalo Shamrocks Buffalo Shamrocks 2 vs Mentor Cardinals 1
Bantam Minor Eagle Champions – Buffalo Shamrocks Buffalo Shamrocks 4 vs Clifton Park Eagles 3 Bantam Major Champions – Niagara Jr Purple Eagles Niagara Jr Purple Eagles 4 vs Syracuse Blazers 1
NJPE will host their 2013 Patroit’s Day Tournament February 16 -18 Dwyer Arena Niagara University Campus
Squirt Major Champions – Niagara Jr Purple Eagles Niagara Jr Purple Eagles 4 vs Fort Erie Meteors 3
Mites (Half Ice), Squirts, PeeWees and Bantams
Pee Wee Minor Champions – Niagara Jr Purple Eagles Niagara Jr Purple Eagles 4 vs Buffalo Shamrocks 2
Application form on NJPE website Contact Dan Stinis at dstinis@jrpurpleeagles.com with any questions)
Pee Wee Major Champions – Niagara Jr Purple Eagles Niagara Jr Purple Eagles 3 vs Whitby Wildcats 0