WNY Hockey Report March 2015

March 2015 VOLUME 4 • ISSUE 2

2015-2016 TRYOUT EDITION!

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Contents

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In This Issue: P.O.Box 302 East Aurora, NY 14052 716-830-0182 info@wnyhockeyreport.com Managing Partner Ian C. Woods icwoods@wnyhockeyreport.com Vice President, Business Development Ned McDonnell Commish@wnyhockeyreport.com Publisher & Managing Editor Randy Schultz Randy@wnyhockeyreport.com Designer & Photographer Janet Schultz Janet@wnyhockeyreport.com Senior Columnists Warren Kozireski Warren@wnyhockeyreport.com Contributing Editor Jeff Kolcon Jeff@maksymum.com Communications & Marketing Director Val Andrews Val@wnyhockeyreport.com Columnists Janet Schultz - janet@wnyhockeyreport.com Michael Mroziak - michael@wnyhockeyreport.com Tom Barnett - Tombarnett@earthlink.net Steve Thomson - steve@hphd.us Mark Metzger - m.metzger@precisionhockey.net Mike Smietana - info@topshelfhockey.us Skylar Vitko-Woods

College Hockey: Men.............................................................................4 HPHD - The Power of 2...........................................................................5 High School Hockey .............................................................................6 Women’s Hockey......................................................................................8 Rochester Youth Hockey News........................................................ 10 Rochester Americans........................................................................... 11 Precision Hockey................................................................................... 12 Tryout Edition March........................................................................... 13 Around the Associations.................................................................... 28 Dillon Hayes - An Emotional Day.................................................... 30 Future Sabres......................................................................................... 31 College Club Hockey........................................................................... 32 Cornerstone Arena............................................................................... 34 In The Crease.......................................................................................... 35 Rochester Jr. Americans..................................................................... 36 Skate Ahead............................................................................................ 37 Senior Hockey........................................................................................ 38

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Men’s Collegiate

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Men’s College Hockey Report

by Warren Kozireski Warren@wnyhockeyreport.com

BROCKPORT The Golden Eagles entered the final weekend of the regular season in a race to host a first round playoff game for the first time since the 2009-10 season. That would mean a third or fourth place finish in the tight SUNYAC conference. They needed one point in trips to Buffalo State and Fredonia to lock down a playoff spot.

Four points would net the home playoff contest.

Freshman David Bennett netted his first collegiate goal Jan. 16 against Bentley.

Junior defender Chris Rumble collected Atlantic Hockey Defensive Player of the Week accolades Jan. 13.

He helped limit Holy Cross to just two goals during the weekend, while adding two points plus a team-best 10 shots and four blocked shots.

ERIE CC The Kats neared the end of the regular season with an 11-game winning streak, 19-1 since their 2-2 start and the clear favorite to win the NJCCA national title. They head to Broome CC for the four-team playoff Feb. 21-22.

Tyler Riter (Orchard Park), Trevor Evans (Newfane), Bradley Jones (Chaffee), Edward Shantler (Buffalo), Jacob Macchioni (Blasdell) and Ryan Hornberger (Hamburg) had all reached the 30-point mark over the team’s first 23 games with Riter leading the way with 47.

Junior Chase Nieuwendyk ended January tied for 11th nationally in goals and 13th in goals per game.

FREDONIA

Defenseman Chris Luker (Jr. Sabres) was tied for first in the nation in assists and tenth in points per game by blueliners as of Feb. 15.

The Blue Devils were officially eliminated from the conference playoff race breaking a five-year postseason streak.

Bellport native Stephen Castriota was leading the team with ten goals and needed one more game to become the first Blue Devils forward since Bryan Ross to reach 100 career games played.

BUFFALO STATE The Bengals entered the final weekend among five teams fighting for a playoff spot and a first round home game in the tight SUNYAC. Ryan Salkeld was atop the team scoring chart while Jason Zaleski was in a fight for a spot on the SUNYAC All-Rookie team with the teamhigh in goals scored.

Freshman Ian Sylves (Sloan) had taken over the top spot in goal and had six of the team’s first eight victories.

CANISIUS Two weekends left in the regular season and little was settled with the Golden Griffins sitting in one of the coveted first round playoff bye spots (top five), but just four points ahead of sixth.

The Griffs ended January unbeaten in their last seven games, the team’s longest streak in the regular season in 14 years (Feb. 11 to March 2, 2001). They were also attempting to secure a first round playoff bye for the first time since the 2009-10 season when there were ten teams in the conference and the first round was a 7-10, 8-9 format.

Junior Ralph Cuddemi and freshman Ryan Schmelzer (Buffalo) were honored with Atlantic Hockey Player and Rookie the Week respectively Jan. 25. Cuddemi totaled six points on four goals and two assists. Schmelzer helped the Griffs to a win on Saturday, setting career highs with three points and two goals, while also posting a plus/minus of +5 tying the program’s record, last set during the 1998-99 campaign. His plus/minus of +14 during his rookie campaign leads the team.

Senior net-minder Keegan Asmundson was named Atlantic Hockey Goaltender of the Month for January.

He posted a 1.70 goals against average and .941 save percentage in seven January contests, registering a 5-11 record. He anchored the team’s seven-game unbeaten streak to end the month – the longest for the program in the regular season since the 2000-01 campaign. The highlight of the month was a shutout of Bentley on Jan. 17.

GENESEO Four points separated third from seventh in the tight SUNYAC as the Knights try to secure a home first round playoff match.

Senior forward Tyler Brickler was one of 15 finalists for the Hockey Humanitarian Award. Brickler started working in the Geneseo admissions office three years ago under the supervision of interim director Kevin Reed.

As their relationship has grown in the office, Tyler spent a lot of time with Kevin’s family, including 9-yearold daughter Abby and 7-year-old son Kyle. This past September, Kevin and his family welcomed their third child, Jack, into the world. However, born a month premature, he was diagnosed with Down Syndrome.

Kevin met with Tyler and gave him a bracelet that he will never take off. Made with yellow and blue coloring that represents Down Syndrome, the band was also inscribed with “I Believe in Jack- Down Syndrome Awareness.”

Being a captain of the hockey team, Tyler first wanted to take the bracelet idea to the next level. The team has since dedicated its season to spreading Down Syndrome Awareness throughout upstate New York in honor of Jack and the Reed family and Brickler spearheaded and effort to start selling the bands at home games with proceeds going to the Arc of Livingston-Wyoming: a local private, not-for-profit organization that provides services to developmentally disabled individuals and their families in the region.

In addition, Brickler designed and ordered stickers for all his teammates to wear on their helmets with a blue and yellow ribbon that says “I Believe in Jack.” He also organized a Down Syndrome awareness game dedicated to baby Jack that will include a ceremonial puck drop with the Reed family on Jan. 24 vs. Canton.

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NAZARETH The Golden Flyers were battling to finish second, which would be the best regular season finish in the program’s brief history, as the final weekend approached.

A veteran defense of four juniors, one sophomore and one freshman anchored by Don Olivieri hadn’t allowed more than three goals in one game since Jan. 3 at nationally ranked Oswego through January. But that unit faltered a bit allowing four or more in three of four games down the stretch.

Ben Blasko’s 24 assists through 24 games put him tied for third in the nation.

NIAGARA The Purple Eagles nightmare season continued into the final month and having one of the three worst power plays (13 for 122) and 11-worst penalty kills (77.4) is not a good combination in the hopes of turning things around in the postseason.

The team will be watching the race for a top-five spot as they will be traveling to the sixth place city for a first round playoff best-of-three series.

Robert Angiolella was named Atlantic Hockey coRookie of the Week Jan. 25 after he returned to the ice and scored three points in a loss to Canisius.

Freshmen Luke Edwards, Stanislav Dzahov and Lawrence Smith (Grand Island) each netted their first collegiate goals against Air Force Jan. 10.

A Jan. 16 game at North Dakota was head coach Dave Burkholder’s 500th game behind the bench for the Purple Eagles.

Sophomore defenseman Kevin Patterson scored his first collegiate goal Jan. 24 against Canisius.

Senior Sam Alfieri played in his 100the career game Feb. 13 against Mercyhurst.

Niagara ranks last in their conference in both scoring offense (2.10) and scoring defense (3.75).

R.I.T. The Tigers were starting to jell at 7-3-2 over their last 12 games to launch themselves into contention for a top-five standing and a first round playoff bye—something virtually unthinkable as the calendar turned.

Matt Garbowsky entered the final two weekends of the regular season easily leading the nation with 503 face-off wins, tied for second with 21 goals, and tied for fourth with 40 points. He became the seventh player in RIT’s Division I history to record his 100th career Feb. 14 at Holy Cross.

With six games remaining in the regular season, Garbowsky had a hand in 47.0 percent (39-of-83) of RIT’s goals this season, highest in the nation. With linemates Josh Mitchell and Brad McGowan, the trio has accounted for 49.4 percent of all RIT goals this season (41-of-83) and 44.9 percent of all RIT points (101-of-225).

Max Mikowski (Cheektowaga) netted his first collegiate goal Feb. 6 at Niagara.

Men’s Collegiate

Josh Mitchell recorded five points on a goal and four assists in a win and tie against Niagara and was named Atlantic Hockey Player of the Week Feb. 10.

Miles Powell scored his first collegiate goal Jan. 17— the game-winner against Sacred Heart. Alex PerronFontaine did the same Jan. 30 versus Army in his 45th career game.

OTHER AREA NOTES: Joseph Cecconi (Youngstown) has committed to the University of Michigan beginning next season. A 6’2”, 205-pound defenseman currently playing with the Muskegon Lumberjacks of the United States Hockey League (USHL), he was named a “B” skater on the NHL Central Scouting Preliminary 2015 Players to Watch list. He competed in the 2014 CCM/USA Hockey AllAmerican Prospects Game.

Orchard Park native Charles Manley was named Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League Defenseman of the Week Jan. 25. The Estevan Bruin and RPI commit scored a goal against Battlefords on Friday and then registered a goal and an assist in a win over Humboldt on Sunday.

For the season, he has 3-goals and 9-assists in 37-games.

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HPHD - The Power of 2 When it comes to getting better and faster results, small groups and private instruction are the proven method.

HPHD Hybrid Clinics and camps have raised the bar as they provide a faster more tangible return to a player’s development.

“As WNY’s only full time hockey training center with the only documented curriculum. HPHD has been able to deliver instruction that has turned into direct actions by its members in the form of Goals, Assists, Saves, Wins and Junior, College and Professional signings.”

Says Steve Thomson Director Player Development.

The best way for a player to advance their skills is to get into a private or semi private setting. That way you can work on the player personally.

The HPHD Hybrid clinics and camps put the players in groups of 2 and are able to work with the player and in most cases take direct request from parents/ players.

The Hybrid Clinics use the HPHD Skating treadmill which is the only overspeed training for hockey in WNY and the Rapid Shot Shooting lane and a mini rink for individual tactics.

The best part of Hybrid training is the cost. Parents

enjoy a lower cost per hr than other clinics and instead of groups of 30 or 40 at HPHD they are in a group of two.

And this works well for teams as coaches can get the additional support to assist players focus on a skill set that they need. Private training in a team setting is the best way to give teams the competitive boost they need.

Player, Parents and Coaches love the Power of 2 players instruction at the HPHD Hybrid Clinics, as it make a difference they can see every game.

Thank You Seniors!

Canisius Golden Griffins

Doug Jessey Stephen Farrell Mitch McCrank Doug Beck Cody Freeman Logan Roe Keegan Asmundson Tyler Wiseman Braeden Rigney Matthew Grazen

Visit www.GoGriffs.com for Atlantic Hockey Conference Playoff Information.

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High School Hockey

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Section VI: Hockey Rising in the Falls

by Michael Mroziak Michael@wnyhockeyreport.com

Think of successful high school hockey in Niagara County, and the first name that may come to mind is Niagara-Wheatfield. The threetime Section VI champion Falcons were still very much in the hunt at press time for a fourth-straight title, seeded first among Large Schools by Section VI heading into the

postseason.

Meanwhile, not far away within the Cataract City limits, Niagara Falls High School was coming off a season of firsts and was seeded seventh in the Large School bracket.

They got a rude reminder in the Section VI large school playoffs of just how far they still have to go, however. Long-established powerhouse Williamsville North blanked the Wolverines, 9-0, in the first round on February 21. But when asked about the loss, Niagara Falls head coach Stan Wojton acknowledged his team could still find the experience useful as the program grows.

“We can just see where we have to improve on speed, size, strength, stuff like that. We need to take those aspects into consideration in the off-season,” he said “I think we made steps in the right direction but we clearly see what we need to get to.”

But the playoff loss was a rare disappointment in what was otherwise a season of significant accomplishments for the program. The Wolverines clinched their first Fed Division 3 title on February 14 with a 3-0 win over

Kenmore West at the Northtown Center at Amherst, finishing out with a division record of 14-2. It’s the most wins in their modern era (not counting their years prior to the merger between the old Niagara Falls and former LaSalle High Schools).

This year’s edition of the Wolverines saw another first: the Fed’s first 50-point producer. Alex Hailey, a junior forward, scored a goal and assist in the Falls’ regularseason finale to reach the 50-point plateau, breaking the previous record of 48 points in a season shared

by Williamsville North teammates Scott Sims and Jake Rosen in the 2010-11 season.

“He’s a really gifted young man, an offensive-minded young man who has that ability to put the puck in the net,” said Wojton to the Niagara Gazette in a February 7 article.

“Something that he’s also come a long way with this year, in developing his game, is that he’s been able to assist or create plays.”

Hailey finished the regular season with 27 goals and 23 assists, leading his team in both categories. Niagara Falls has enjoyed steady point production not just from Hailey but also from forwards Nicholas Kindzia (20 goals, 21 assists) and Cody Bielec (16 goals, 22 assists).

The team has used four goaltenders this season, relying first on starter Tom Orfano, who recorded a 7-1 regular season record that includes three shutouts, including the regular-season finale against Kenmore West.

The defense, penalty killing and role players have also been important to the success of the Wolverines. While coach Wojton praised Nick Lepine and Dylan Mort by name for improved play, Wojton was quick to praise his entire defensive unit.

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“All six of them have done a really outstanding job,” said Wojton, who also named Erik Baillie as a key player for the team’s penalty killing needs.

Also gaining some praise late in the regular season was Dajon Maye, who scored one of the goals against Kenmore West.

“Dajon is our comeback player of the year,” said Coach Wojton’s right hand man Nick Ruffalo. “He’s had two injuries the past two seasons where he hasn’t been able to play. He’s been working hard. He worked hard in the off-season to get his leg back to 100 percent and the kid’s got some talent.”

If there was anything missing from the team’s divisionclinching win, it was the absence of Wojton from the bench. The day before, his wife delivered their second child, a son. Ruffalo steered the team in his place and the players delivered.

“We said we’ve got to win this for Baby Stan now,” said Ruffalo. “We won this game for Baby Stan.”

Six players will graduate from the team after this season. Hailey, Bielec and Kindzia are currently high school juniors, but could in the off-season decide to test the waters of higher levels of hockey, namely junior hockey, the level from where the vast majority of players are scouted for possible college hockey scholarships.

“Of course we hope that we have them for another year,” said Wojton. “But if an opportunity with a junior program arises for them, of course that’s a next step for them. We’d of course wish nothing but the best.”

However, that’s the future. In the here and now, Niagara Falls high school hockey is hoping that after this month’s playoff setback, they’ll soon take two steps forward and continue the program’s growth.

High School Hockey

Section V

by Warren Kozireski Warren@wnyhockeyreport.com

Second seed Canandaigua, third Brockport and fourth Irondequoit round out the .500 or better top tier.

McQuaid (Class A), Greece Thunder (Class BB) and Geneseo/Livonia/Dansville (Class B) were the top seeds heading into the Section V playoff that begin Feb. 18 with all three class finals on Mar. 1 at

Ethan Mapes-Geneseo David Farrance-Victor (4) Joseph Como-Canandaigua Dylan Sharpe-Brockport Christian Leonardi-McQuaid Joe Pasko-McQuaid Matt Roe-Brockport Kyle Pooler-Victor Connor Haims-Pittsford Quinn Doyle-Pittsford Michael Campbell-McQuaid Timmy Lischer-Geneseo Hunter Reid-Canandaigua Mike Klim-Gates-Chili (2) Louis Cup-Irondequoit Billy McDevitt-Geneseo Brandon Corey-Spencerport Sean Ryan-Greece Thunder Justin Allen-Hilton Jesse Edwards-Hilton Craig McCabe-McQuaid Bryce Polito-Batavia Benjamin Monroe-Webster Thomas Matt Montgomery-Webster Schroeder Ryan Cosgrove-Churchville-Chili Jacob Cerretto-Spencerport Matthew Clark-Greece Thunder Anthony Thurston-Irondequoit

RIT’s Ritter Arena.

McQuaid finished the regular season with a 17-2 record and were led by the league’s leading scorer Jack Dugan, Michael Campbell, Christian Leonardi and Craig McCabe offensively.

Rush-Henrietta was ranked second, Fairport third, Pittsford fourth and Brighton/East Rochester/HF-L fifth in the small bracket.

The 13-5-1 Greece Thunder took top-seed honors in Class BB led by Marc McNeil, Derek Mazeau and Dylan O’Hare.

David Farrance leads second and dangerous Victor, with number three Hilton, fourth-seed Gates-Chili plus fifth seed and defending state champion Webster Thomas sixth all finishing with 11 or more regular season victories.

In Class B, 13-win Geneseo entered the postseason as the number one seed led by Ethan Mapes, Billy McDevitt and Reid Mattle plus the goaltending of Zach Bishopp.

HAT TRICKS

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Derek Mazeau-Greece Thunder

SHUTOUTS Ryan Beutel-Webster Schroeder Luke Barnes-Fairport (2) Connor Raeman-McQuaid Connor Hyde-Hamilton-Batavia Dalton Jerzak-Webster Thomas Adam Jarvis-Greece Lightning Ethan Kaiser-Fairport (2) Freddy Peters-Gates-Chili Riley Emmerson-Brockport Bryce Guay-Canandaigua Drennan/Nesbit-Geneva Eric Wirth-Victor Acker/Dennehy/Lamparella-Hilton Eric McNeil-Rush-Henrietta (2) Chayse Ierlan-Victor Ethan Lincoln-Canandaigua Thomas Conroy-Aquinas Nichols/Lester-Spencerpo James Cryer-Batavia

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Women’s Hockey

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Women’s Hockey

by Janet Schultz Janet@wnyhockeyreport.com In the fifth season of the Western New York Girl’s Varsity Ice Hockey Federation, Kenmore has taken their fourth Section VI title, played for the New York State Championship for the third time and at the time of this article being written facing off against Monsignor Martin for the League championship. (The League Championship game was postponed due to weather and will be played on February 26).

Kenmore’s Lauren Pray was named the WKBW Super 7, #1 Athlete of the Week On February 13th.

Jenna Lukomski was #4. A great showing for WNYGVIH on WKBW!

College News

Kenmore wins fourth Section VI title.

As in the past four seasons, no one could predict a Champion. The season welcomed Hamburg High School girls into the league as part of the West Seneca team and they lost 2-1 to Orchard Park/Frontier in the Section VI quarterfinals; but it took 4 overtimes to do it.

Lancaster/Iroquois, in its second season as a combined team, made it to the League playoffs beating Amherst/Sweet Home 5-2. Lancaster/Iroquois then faced Kenmore in the semis and lost 2-0. Williamsville upset Orchard Park/Frontier 4-3 in overtime in the semis.

The final match-up found Kenmore beating Williamsville 6-3 taking the Sectional and qualifying them to move to the NYS Championship.

WNY hosted the Championship at HarborCenter on February 6 and 7. Coming into town were Alexandria Bay, Beekmantown and Massena. Kenmore beat Alex Bay 2-1 in game 1 and then lost the Championship Game 3-0 to the 2015 NYS Champions, Massena.

In the WNYGVIF Quarterfinals it was Kenmore 5 over West Seneca/Hamburg 2; Williamsville 3 over Amherst/ Sweet Home 2 and Lancaster/Iroquois over Orchard Park/Frontier 3-2. Monsignor Martin beat Lancaster/ Iroquois 4-2 and Kenmore beat Williamsville 1-0 heading to the Championship matchup.

The League received a lot of great publicity for the States and Sectionals. Along with that came some honors for Kenmore’s Lauren Pray. Pray was named #7 (Feb. 6) and #1 (Feb. 13) WKBW Super 7 Athlete of the Week and West Seneca/Hamburg’s Abby Mutton was #2 for February 6. On January 30 Bridget Bork from West Seneca/Hamburg was #6 and Williamsville’s Goaltender

The Buffalo State Women’s Ice Hockey team will head to the ECAC West playoffs after securing a place following a 3-1 victory over Cortland. Erin Gehen (West Seneca/ West Seneca West) had a goal and an assist and Nikki Kirchberger (West Seneca/West Seneca West) had a goal. The other goal came from Christine Harris.

The Bengals are 10-10-2 overall and 8-7-0 in the conference with only Utica College left to play. That two-game stand will be played on February 20 and 21 at Buff State. Both games are scheduled for 4 p.m. starts.

Kara Goodwin and Brooke Krantz both received ECAC West Honors following wins over William Smith.

Goodwin was named Player of the Week and Krantz took Rookie of the Week honors.

The ECAC West playoffs begin February 28 with the quarterfinals. Semis will be played March 7 and the Championship game is March 8. The games will be played at the highest seed’s home ice.

At Rochester the Tigers are 10-17-5 overall and 4-113 in College Hockey America play. They close out their season against Syracuse at Syracuse on February 20 and conclude their season at home against the Orange on February 21 at 3 p.m.

Kolbee McCrea got her 100th career point making her the 13th RIT player to do so. She scored the gamewinner in a 5-4 win over Lindenwood on January 30.

Brooke Stoddart was named CHA Goaltender of the Week after she stopped 35 of 37 shots in the Lindenwood series.

Around WNY We congratulate Brooke Becker, Mary Kromer, Emma Roland, Alexa Carlon and Jersey Phillips for being among the 68 girls chosen for the World Selects Invitational in Bolano, Italy this May. In 2013 Becker, Kromer and Carlon played together on the Buffalo Bison 12U team.

Currently Kromer plays for the 14U Buffalo Bisons and Becker and Carlon play for the Bison boys Peewee Major AA team and the Pittsburgh Pens Elite 12U team.

Phillips plays for the Buffalo Regals 12U team. Roland plays for the Amherst Youth Hockey organization with the boys Peewee Major AA team.

WNY was well represented at the prestigious Sarah

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Backstrom Tournament in Erie, Pa. Bringing home wins were the Amherst 16U team and the Cazenovia Chiefs 19U team.

At 10U the Buffalo Regals (seeded #1) lost to #2 Cleveland Lady Barons. The Depew Lady Saints and the Southern Tier Storm also had teams in this division.

At 12U the Depew Lady Saints lost to the Cleveland Lady Barons.

The Amherst Knights 14U House lost 2-1 to the Indiana Lady Chiefs in the finals. Also playing at this level from WNY were the Buffalo Shamrocks, Canandaigua Freeze and Webster Cyclones.

At 14U Tier II the Erie Lady Lions lost 1-2 to KVHA. The Amherst Lady Knights 16U Tier 1 team beat Syracuse 3-0 for the Championship. The Niagara County Coyotes also had a team at this level.

At 19U House Canandaigua lost to Haldinand Rivercats 3-0. The Buffalo Stars also played.

The Cazenovia Lady Chiefs beat the Southern Tier Storm 4-0 to take the Backstrom Championship. Also playing at this division were the Buffalo Stars, Erie, Southern Tier Storm and Niagara County Coyotes.

The Hamburg Hawks 12U team brought home the gold from the 2015 Empire State Winter Games in Lake Placid.

Hamburg Hawks Women win gold medal in Ottawa.

The West Section Women brought home the silver from the Empire State Winter Games held in Tupper Lake. They were coached by Scott Then.

The Hamburg Hawks Women took the gold medal at the 2015 Canlan Winter Whiteout Tournament in Ottawa. They were the only USA team participating and beat the Ice Puckers 3-1 to win. Hamburg’s team included Brigid O’Gorman, Laren McDermott, Jasmine Marcucci, Christine Wolcott, Michelle Donlon, Danielle Gehen, Carly Smith and in goal, Lauren Orynawka. Also playing for the Hawks were Annmarie Cellino, Cheryl Julicher, Shoshana Levine, Amanda Todd, Emily Wyse, Lauren Blas, Katelyn Bothwell, Blake Carbone, Alyssa Dollendorf, Alison Edwards, Melissa Jeckovich and Katie Stack. If these names sound familiar, they’ve been part of WNY hockey for several years at the youth and collegiate levels. Great to see them playing together!

Women’s Hockey

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Buffalo Regals Capture Motown (Following story submitted by Marilyn Quattro) The Regals started slow in their opening game against the Michigan Troy Sting. The Sting opened the scoring but the Regals fought hard and won with a come from behind score of 4-2. Goal scorers for the Regals were Maddy Moran (2), Abbi Charvat and Cortney Staniszewski.

The next game versus the Canadian Windsor Wildcats started strong with two goals in the first by Phoebe Palmisano and Anna Pitz. Windsor rebounded with a powerplay goal in the second and tied the game midway through the period. Strong goaltending by Rose Quattro kept the game tied at 2 through the end of the game.

In a must win game versus the Livonia Knights to make it to the finals, the Regals came out on a mission and took an early lead which they never surrendered.

Strong goaltending by Rose Quattro and goals by Captain Jamie King and Heather Fitzgerald ensured the 2-1 victory and berth in the tournament finals.

The final game was a rematch against the Livonia Knights. First period goals by Jamie King and defenseman Haylee Tatar put the Regals up by two.

However, Livonia scored a goal in the second. Goalie Rose Quattro shut the opposition down even when the team got in penalty trouble in the third.

Strong defensive play by defensemen Jillian Blas, Haylee Tatar, Emily Matthew, Maddie Moell, Kate Morris and Catie Martinez held the competition to six goals.

Goaltender Rose Quattro strong play was rewarded with tournament MVP honors.

Front Row (L-R) Phoebe Palmisano, Kate Morris, Abbi Charvat, Fiona Danahy, Rose Quattro, Emily Matthew, Maddy Moran, Jamie King (Captain) Middle Row (L-R) Catie Martinez , Jillian Blas Third Row (L-R) Anna Pitz, Heather Fitzgerald, Cortney Staniszewski, Maddie Moell, Emily Streczywilk, Haylee Tator Back Row (L-R) Bob Charvat, Larry Blas, Darren King, Mike Moran

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Rochester Youth Hockey News

Rochester Youth Hockey RYH Peewee Major Team Wins Pittsburgh Midwinter Classic The Rochester Youth Hockey Peewee Major AA Blue team, coached by Brock Alexander, Mark Cuzzupoli, Mike Latone and Jeff Cowie, had great success at the Pittsburgh Midwinter Classic. The tournament, which took place January 17-19, had the RYH team matched up against teams from Maryland (Howard Huskies), Ontario (Schomberg Red Wings) and Pittsburgh (North Pittsburgh Wildcats).

Early in the morning on Saturday the team had their first game against the North Pittsburgh Wildcats.

Jordan Coleman scored the first two RYH goals. It then came down to the last few minutes when Tyler Henshaw scored a short-handed goal, winning the game for the RYH Americans. The final score was 3-2.

After the morning game there was no hockey games left for the rest of the day. Everyone went back to the hotel and went swimming, played knee hockey and hung out.

In the second game played at 7:00am on Sunday, the team played the Ontario Red Wings. Jordan Coleman was able to score 4 goals, leading the team to a 7-3 victory. Also contributing to the score sheet were Nick Cowie, Joey Cuzzupoli and Connor Palmer with one goal each. It was a dominant offensive performance with multiple players chipping in with assists.

By the time the evening game was to be played on Sunday, the RYH Peewee Major Blue team had already secured a spot in the championship game. While the RYH squad was 2-0, each of the other three teams had suffered a loss at the hands of one of the teams in the division. The evening game would determine who RYH would play for the championship. While the morning game was all about the offense, the evening game, against the Howard Huskies, would see the RYH goalies (Matt McDermott and AJ White) pitch a shutout. Goal support came From Jordan Coleman and Nick Cowie and the RYH team was on to the championship game after securing a 2-0 win over the Huskies.

The championship game was played at the Pittsburgh Ice Palace and the RYH boys needed one more victory to seal an undefeated championship tournament run. As it turned out, it would be a rematch with the Huskies to determine the champion.

The game started out great for RYH as the team took a 3-0 lead with goals from Jordan Coleman and Joey Cuzzupoli (2). The Huskies were not going to give up however, and they climbed back into the game with 2 goals. This made for some serious excitement in the final minutes as the Huskies poured on the pressure.

With their goalie pulled, the Huskies got several good opportunities and looked like they were going to tie it up. However, in front of their goalie AJ White, RYH held on for the thrilling win!

Going undefeated to win the championship will certainly be a highlight of the season for the RYH Peewee Major Blue team. The experience was fantastic as the families and players alike got to enjoy the fun of a road trip to a great hotel, the building of team camaraderie and lots of fun. Of course the best part was getting to play some great hockey and winning that final game for the championship.

RYH Americans Pewee Major AA Red Win Presidential Power-Play The Rochester Youth Peewee Major AA Red team won the Presidential Power-Play tournament at the Bill Grays Regional Iceplex in Rochester. After losing their

Right: RHY Peewee Major Blue Team celebrate after winning Pittsburgh Midwinter Classic.

Below : RHY Peewee Major AA Red Team won the Presidential PowerPlay Tournament.

opening game 2-3, the team rallied back to tie their second game 2-2.

Needing to win their third game, the team skated to a 4-1 victory securing 3rd place and advancing to the semifinals. In the semi-final game the Americans skated to another victory with a 2-0 win over the Delco Phantoms. The championship game was close with both teams tied 1-1 at the end of the first period, but the Americans jumped to a two goal lead by the end of the second and finished the game with a 3-2 victory. Congratulations to the PW Major AA Red team, Andrew Balch, Cole Bollin, Ryan Brown, Brecken Catalano, Alex Czornobil, Jack Gramlich, Brad Haines, Sam Lauderdale, Luke Leach, Trevor MacDonald, Luke Molnar, Aiden Nasca, Josh Seymour, Matt Tyler, Huck Thayer, Mike Walton and their coaches Mike Lauderdale (Head Coach), Dave Seymour, Brian Leach and Sean MacDonald.

www.ryhockeytournaments.com

WNYHockeyReport.com

10

Rochester Americans

11

Rochester Americans Report

by Warren Kozireski Warren@wnyhockeyreport.com The Buffalo Sabres have a decision to make at the end of the 2014-15 season. Not that is any chance that they wouldn’t resign their first round draft pick from 2012. But the front office moves forward with still barely a hint of what Mikhail Grigorenko can do at the pro level. Even after three years.

The Russian is burning through the final year of his three-year entry deal this season and has only played 55 NHL games and 46 AHL games as of mid-February.

Whether you call is mismanagement, over-optimism or simply a mistake, the center played 25 games in Buffalo as an 18-year old before being sent back to junior in Quebec for the remainder of the campaign.

Grigorenko hopes that next year he’s back in the NHL and would love to stay in Buffalo.

“It is part of being a hockey player—you never know what is going to happen and there are always ups and downs,” Grigorenko said. “Different opportunities and different timing, but overall I think my game as improved which is most important.

Grigorenko was caught in the middle of a General Manager and philosophy change in Buffalo as well as Canadian junior hockey rules that restricted him from being sent to Rochester as long as he had junior eligibility remaining.

Sabres prospect Mikhail Grigorenko.

That burned one year.

Last season again started in Buffalo before he returned to Quebec and played in his first AHL regular season games after the Remparts were eliminated from the playoffs.

This season began in Rochester, but he was recalled for a seven game stretch and, most recently, was sitting out his seventh consecutive game with a left knee injury.

The only sustained period of professional competition came over a 29 game run to start the year where he scored eight goals and added 12 assists.

But 29 games is hardly enough to pass judgment on his future after three years.

“I think they (Buffalo) knows what I can do even though I haven’t been able to produce points in the NHL,” Grigorenko said. “I think all the management, the coaches and all the people in the Sabres organization now what I can do and know my potential.

“He’s itching to get back and show what he can do to get his bid to get back in the league,” Rochester head coach Chadd Cassidy

Now he’s playing catchup playing every night against stronger competition.

The 6’3” center comes labeled with great hands and a knack for finding the back of the net with 102 goals in 158 junior games, but needs work on his skating and, some say, his compete level.

And his knee injury, like many of the trials over the past 30+ months, couldn’t have come at a worse time with the trade deadline approaching on March 2nd and potential roster slots open in Buffalo depending on trade movement.

WNYHockeyReport.com

“He’s itching to get back and show what he can do to get his bid to get back in the league,” Rochester head coach Chadd Cassidy said.

“He also has to deal with the fact that we have a lot of guys playing well, so there is a lot more at stake now that he has to really elevate his game quickly.”

Grigorenko has shown flashes in his first full professional season being named AHL Player of the Week after his seven-point, three goal week in mid-January.

He had 10 goals with 20 assists in 37 games with Rochester this season prior to his knee injury Though he would not say so out loud, and although he will be a restricted free agent this summer, there is a chance to Grigorenko and agent to entertain offers to send him back home to play in Russia.

That’s leverage for the coming months—something he hasn’t had since being thrust into the NHL at 18 years old mere months after being drafted.

But he is saying the right things now.

“I would love to play in the NHL next year, that’s my goal, and if Buffalo wants me on the team I would love to stay.”

Precision Hockey Training

12

How To Catch The Coaches Eye At Tryouts

by Mark Metzger – m.metzger@precisionhockey.net

I have spent that last five season training players who aspire to play at a higher level such as AA, AAA, Junior, Major Junior, or NHL. I have often been asked the question, “How do I make it to the next level and get the coaches attention?” Several coaches that I have mentored ask me the same question, “What do I look for when I am picking my team?”

I know exactly how little details of the game make a big difference. If you want to play at the next level, you have to pay attention to the little details!

1. Bad Body Language - We have all heard the expression “body language doesn’t lie”. Players will make mistakes on the ice. They will make bad passes, fumble the pass, pass the puck instead of shooting, etc. But what will your body language say about the mistakes you make? Will you slam your stick on the ice or on the boards? Will you drop your head and feel sorry for yourself? Will that one mistake slow you down or

will it motivate you? Bad body language is very selfish and distracting. It’s a huge red flag for every coach.

2. Lazy Shift Changes - This one is easy for any coach to see. Players need to skate hard to the bench at the end of each shift. When it’s your turn to get back on the ice, come back out like you have been shot out of a cannon. Lazy shift changes stick out and could break your chances of making a team. My Dad would always say to me before tryouts and every game, “come out flying at the start of your shift so people say, WOW who is that?” Work hard to change quickly so that your teammate can get on the ice quicker to get their job done!

3. Do What You Do, and Do It Well - Play your role. If you are a playmaker go out and make plays, if you are a power forward play physical, and if you are a stay home defenseman do that and make good plays. Whatever kind of player you are, do it well and don’t change your game. Teams are made up of all kind of players. Just go look at any Stanley Cup Championship Team Roster.

4. Be A Stand Out Player - Everyone is excited and ready to go for the first shift of the game but can you sustain it throughout the game? It is great to be a rock start at the start of the game but are you still visible in the third period? Are you consistent? It is one of the hardest things for young players to learn, but it is critical

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if you want to make the team or get to the next level.

Coaches want to know that you can deliver a consistent effort from shift to shift. There are a lot of players out there to choose from, be a stand out player!

5. Stop On Pucks - Every player has heard coaches tell them stops and starts. There is nothing worse than watching a player do a “fly-by” on their backcheck and do a big circle to recover instead of stopping and starting. If it is a turnover or while trying to angle you’re opponent, you have to do stops and starts instead of big circles! It is so noticeable when players do it. Remember stops and starts. They make a big difference.

These tryout tips have nothing to do with elite player skills. These are all choices that you have the power to make! You have to decide if you are going to pay attention to the little details. Be different than everybody else and always be the hardest working player on the ice. Period. Do not give a coach a reason to cross off your name at tryouts! It’s all about your ATTITUDE! Good luck and go prove to people that you deserve to play on the team!

Mark Metzger is the Founder / Head Instructor of Precision Hockey. He can be reached at m.metzger@ precisionhockey.net

wnyhockeyreport.com

TRYOUT EDITION 2015-2016

Niagara Junior Purple Eagles

Come join one of the premiere Travel Organizations in WNY. All tryouts held at Dwyer Arena on the Niagara University Campus. $20 tryout fee per session, with the third session free when paying for two. $300 non-refundable deposit due at signing.

MONDAY MARCH 16 & TUESDAY MARCH 17: 5:30-6:30 Squirt Major 6:40-7:40 Squirt Minor 6:00-7:00 Pee Wee Major 7:10-8:10 Pee Wee Minor

Come join one of the premiere Travel Organizations in WNY.

WEDNESDAY MARCH 18: 5:30-6:30 Squirt III 6:40-7:40 Pee Wee III 6:40-7:40 Girls U12

THURSDAY APRIL 2: Monday, March 16 & Tuesday, March 17: 6:00-7:00 Midget 15/16

TUESDAY MARCH 31 & WEDNESDAY APRIL 1: 6:00-7:00 Bantam Major 7:10-8:10 BantamSquirt Minor Major 8:20-9:20 Midget Squirt 16U TB Minor 9:30-10:30 Midget 18U TB Pee Wee Major 6:40-7:40 Girls 14U 7:50-8:50 Midget Pee 15U Wee Minor 9:00-9:50 Girls 19U

6:30NTB 7:10-8:105:30 Midget- 18U 7:40-8:406:40 Bantam III - 7:40 6:00 - 7:00 7:10 - 8:10

All tryouts hald at Wednesday, March 17: Squirt III 5:30 - 6:30 Dwyer Arena on the Wee III716-534-4075 – Email 6:40 - 7:40 For more information contact Kelly Rizzo, NJPE Travel Pww President - Cell njpe.rizzo@gmail.com Niagara University Girls U12 6:40 - 7:40 Campus.

Tuesday, March 31 & Wednesday, April 1:

$20 tryout fee per session, with the third session free when paying for two. $300 non-refundable deposit due at signing.

Bantam Major Bantam Minor Midget 16U TB Midget 18U TB Girls 14U Midget 15U Girls 19U

6:00 - 7:00 7:10 - 8:10 8:20 - 9:20 9:30 - 10:30 6:40 - 7:40 7:50 - 8:50 9:00 - 9:50

Thursday, April 2:

Midget 15/16 Midget 18U NTB Bantam III

6:00 - 7:00 7:10 - 8:10 7:40 - 8:40

For more information contact Kelly Rizzo, NJPE Travel President Cell 716-534-4075 Email: njpe.rizzo@gmail.com

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TRYOUT EDITION 2015-2016

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wnyhockeyreport.com

TRYOUT EDITION 2015-2016

15

Bison Hockey Travel Team Tryouts for the 2015 - 2016 Season

BOYS Teams

Level

Squirt Major (SBA)

AA

Squirt Minor (SBB) Peewee Major TB (PBA) Peewee Minor (PBB) Bantam Major TB (BBA) Bantam Minor (BBB) Bantam Minor (BBC) Midget 15U (MBC) Midget 16U TB (MBB) Midget 18U TB (MBA)

AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA AA

GIRLS Teams

Level

10 & Under

Tier I

12 & Under TB 12 & Under NTB 14 & Under TB 16 & Under TB 19 & Under TB

Tier I Tier I Tier I Tier I Tier II

Coaches Kevin Barry Chris Scinta Paul Gross Rowland Richards Bob Maulucci Rob Kneer Sean Corrigan Kevin Orzechowski Tom DiGiacomo Bill Waszkielewicz Coaches To Be Determined

Birth Years

Dates

Time

Rink

2005

Mon Mar 16, 2015

4:30-5:30 pm

North Buffalo Rink

Tue Mar 17, 2015

4:30-5:30 pm

North Buffalo Rink

Mon Mar 16, 2015

5:30-6:30 pm

North Buffalo Rink

Tue Mar 17, 2015

5:30-6:30 pm

North Buffalo Rink

Mon Mar 16, 2015

6:30-7:30 pm

North Buffalo Rink

Tue Mar 17, 2015

6:30-7:30 pm

North Buffalo Rink

Mon Mar 16, 2015

7:30-8:30 pm

North Buffalo Rink

Tue Mar 17, 2015

7:30-8:30 pm

North Buffalo Rink

Tue Mar 31, 2015

6:30-7:30 pm

North Buffalo Rink

Wed Apr 1, 2015

6:30-7:30 pm

North Buffalo Rink

Tue Mar 31, 2015

7:30-8:30 pm

North Buffalo Rink

Wed Apr 1, 2015

7:30-8:30 pm

North Buffalo Rink

Tue Mar 31, 2015

8:30-9:30 pm

North Buffalo Rink

Wed Apr 1, 2015

8:30-9:30 pm

North Buffalo Rink

Tue Mar 31, 2015

5:00-6:00 pm

Buffalo State Arena

Wed Apr 1, 2015

5:00-6:00 pm

Buffalo State Arena

Tue Mar 31, 2015

6:00-7:00 pm

Buffalo State Arena

Wed Apr 1, 2015

6:00-7:00 pm

Buffalo State Arena

Tue Mar 31, 2015

7:00-8:00 pm

Buffalo State Arena

Wed Apr 1, 2015

7:00-8:00 pm

Buffalo State Arena

Birth Years

First Day

Time

Rink

2005-2006

Mon Mar 16, 2015

7:30-8:30 pm

Nichols School

Tue Mar 17, 2015

7:30-8:30 pm

Nichols School

Mon Mar 16, 2015

7:30-8:30 pm

Nichols School

Tue Mar 17, 2015

7:30-8:30 pm

Nichols School

Mon Mar 16, 2015

7:30-8:30 pm

Nichols School

Tue Mar 17, 2015

7:30-8:30 pm

Nichols School

Tue Mar 31, 2015

4:30-5:30 pm

North Buffalo Rink

Wed Apr 1, 2015

4:30-5:30 pm

North Buffalo Rink

Tue Mar 31, 2015

5:30-6:30 pm

North Buffalo Rink

Wed Apr 1, 2015

5:30-6:30 pm

North Buffalo Rink

Tue Mar 31, 2015

5:30-6:30 pm

North Buffalo Rink

Wed Apr 1, 2015

5:30-6:30 pm

North Buffalo Rink

2006 2003 2004 2001 2002 2002 2000 1999 1997-1998

Bill Waszkielewicz / Shelley Looney

2003-2004

Mark DiFilippo / Shelley Looney

2003-2004

Rich Gicewicz / Shelley Looney

2001-2002

John Cleary / Shelley Looney

1999-2000

Scott Then / Shelley Looney

1996-1998

There is a one time tryout fee of $20.00 for every player.

All new players must present a signed NYSAHA Player/Financial Release Form from their host association before they can attend Bison Hockey Tryouts.

If you have any questions please call Bison Hockey Director Shelley Looney at 617-834-1885.

Bison Hockey is planning to have MOHL teams in WNYAHL at the Squirt, Peewee, Bantam and Midget age levels, subject to enrollments.

NBH038-AD WNY Hockey REPORT-rev.indd 1

2/15/15 4:40 PM

TRYOUT EDITION 2015-2016

wnyhockeyreport.com

Tier 1 AAA 2015-2016 Tryouts Squirt Minor AAA March 16th & 17th: 5:45-6:30 pm Brad Austin: Austy28@aol.com

Squirt Major AAA March 16th & 17th: 6:40-7:25 pm Scott Winiewski: scottwiz99@yahoo.com

Peewee Minor AAA March 16th & 17th: 7:25-8:10 pm Kevin Wicka: Kpwicka@gmail.com

Lady Saints(Girls) 12 U Tier 2 TB March 16th & 17th 8:20-9:05 pm David Dee: Ddee@roadrunner.com

Peewee major AAA Tier 1 TB March 16th & 17th: 9:05-9:50 pm Coach TBA

All tryouts are at the Depew Ice Pavillion Please contact Dave Borkowski (238-0102) or Mike Suda (440-3778) for any additional information.

www.saintshockey.com

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wnyhockeyreport.com

TRYOUT EDITION 2015-2016

Cazenovia Park HoCkey assoCiation 2015-2016 tryouts

tryout fee is $10 for eaCH tryout (day).

Team Squirt III

Date Thursday Coach: Chris Jurusik Friday Squirt Major Monday Coach: TBD Thursday Pee Wee Minor Wednesday Zack DeMaio/zackd84@yahoo.com Friday Pee Wee Major Monday Doug Hayden Wednesday scat1221@verizon.net Thursday

Time 7:00-7:50 pm 5:00-5:50 pm 6:00-6:50 pm 7:00-7:50 7:00-7:50 pm 6:00-6:50 pm 7:00-7:50 pm 8:00-8:50 pm 8:00-8:50 pm

3/19/15 3/20/15 3/16/15 3/19/15 3/18/15 3/20/15 3/16/16 3/18/15 3/19/15

Girls 14U TB 716.997.3130 Tuesday Chris Malicki / cm1232@aol.com Thursday Girls 16U TB 716.984.3474 Tuesday Jim Bautz / jbtz7@yahoo.com Wednesday Girls 19U TB Tuesday Jeff Baker / bubmist@gmail.com Thursday

3/31/15 5:00-5:50 pm 4/2/15 6:00-6:50 pm 3/31/15 6:00-6:50 pm 4/1/15 5:00-5:50 pm 3/31/15 10:00-10:50 pm 4/2/15 7:00-7:50 pm

Team Bantam Minor

Ken Swain kswain3@roadrunner.com

Bantam Major

Aaron Wallace 716.465.5910 waldo420247@hotmaill.com

Midget 15U Mark Poloncarz mpoloncarz@yahoo.com Midget 16U NTB 716.997.2568 Nelson Sheehan / nels10jr@aol.com Midget 18U TB Jim Banko / caz18utb@yahoo.com

Date Tuesday Wednesday Friday Tuesday Wednesday Friday Wednesday Thursday Wednesday Thursday Tuesday Wednesday

3/31/15 4/1/15 4/3/15 3/31/15 4/1/15 4/3/15 4/1/15 4/2/15 4/1/15 4/2/15 3/31/15 4/1/15

Time 7:00-7:50 pm 6:00-6:50 pm 7:00-7:50 pm 8:00-8:50 pm 7:00-7:50 pm 8:00-8:50 pm 9:00-9:50 pm 9:00-9:50 pm 8:00-8:50 pm 8:00-8:50 pm 9:00-9:50 pm 10:00-10:50 pm

All Tryouts will be held at the Timothy Burvid (Caz) Ice Rink, 25 Cazenovia Street Buffalo, 14220.

Players should attend all tryouts.

A copy of player’s Birth Certificate and a RELEASE from your previous Organization is MANDATORY. Pease visit our website www.cazhockey.com afor updates as well as for on-line registration information for our Mite and MOHL programs. for more information contact us at cazhockey@live.com

www.CazHoCkey.Com

17

wnyhockeyreport.com

TRYOUT EDITION 2015-2016

18

2015-2016 Squirt & PeeWee Tryouts Monday, March 16

Tuesday, March 17

Squirt Major AAA Squirt Minor AAA PeeWee Major AAA PeeWee Minor AAA PeeWee Major AA PeeWee Minor AA

Squirt Minor AAA Squirt Major AAA Squirt Major AA Squirt Minor AA PeeWee Minor AAA PeeWee Major AAA

4:00 pm 5:00 pm 6:00 pm 7:00 pm 8:00 pm 9:00 pm

Wednesday, March 18 Squirt Minor AA Squirt Major AA PeeWee Minor AA PeeWee Major AA

5:00 pm 6:00 pm 7:00 pm 8:00 pm

4:00 pm 5:00 pm 6:00 pm 7:00 pm 8:00 pm 9:00 pm

All Tryouts are being held at the West Seneca Town Rink All Tryouts are $15 per session All House and Travel players (other than current West Seneca players) must have a release from their current Hockey Association A deposit is required at signing

For more information, please contact either Rocco DellaNeve at 432-9728 or Tim Weixlmann at 997-9666

www.westsenecayouthhockey.com

wnyhockeyreport.com

TRYOUT EDITION 2015-2016

19

Southtowns Stars Amateur Hockey Association

2015 –16 Travel Tryouts At Leisure Rinks

Southtowns is a USA Hockey organization that plays Tier II travel in the Western New York Amateur Hockey League. All Major as well as the Midget TB teams are State Tournament eligible.

TEAM

SQUIRT MINOR SQUIRT MAJOR PW MINOR PW MAJOR TB PW MAJOR NTB

COACH

DAN SHINNERS CHRIS STEC PAUL ROBERTS KEITH BERNARD JOHN CLARK

PHONE

491-6797 698-3748 870-0049 430-2217 308-4823

DATE

TIME

3/16 3/16 3/16 3/16 3/16

5:15-6:15 PM 6:00-7:15 PM 7:15-8:45 PM 6:15-7:45 PM 8:00-9:30 PM

All tryouts $20. All players form organizations other than Southtowns must have a 2015-2016 release from that organization, and a copy of their birth certificate.

A $250 deposit (check or money order) is due at signing.

Please check our website for: • Red, White & Blue through Midget House signups will begin in April • Beginner program – we offer an established Red, White & Blue cross ice beginner program • Coaching applications – we are currently accepting for the 2015-16 house teams For more information about Southtowns, please download our parent manual from our website.

www.southtownsstars.com

BUFFALO STARS 2015-2016 TRyOUTS Squirt Mixed (2005-2006) Peewee Minor (2004) / Peewee Major (2003) Monday, March 16th at Holiday

Squirt Mixed & Peewee Minor AA........................7:30 pm Peewee Major AA ..................................................8:30 pm

Tuesday, March 17th at Holiday

Squirt Mixed & Peewee Major AA ........................7:30 pm Peewee Minor AA ..................................................8:30 pm For general information contact Pete Preteroti at 685-1122 or visit us on line at:

www.buffalostars.com

All Participants must present a release from their current organization in order to participate in the tryout. Release required even from House League.

Tryout fee is $15 per session.

Contact us at: SportsNiag@aol.com Visit our website for Budgets; Coach Bio; Season Plan; etc...

www.buffalostars.com

Niagara County Coyotes

2015 –2016 Tryouts Pee Wee Mixed Mon 3/16 7:00pm & Tues 3/17 6:00pm Coach Anthony Leone Phone: 560-1985 Email: 8Leones@gmail.com Bantam Mixed TB Wed 4/1 & Thurs 4/2 @ 7:00pm Coach Anthony Leone Phone: 560-1985 Email: 8Leones@gmail.com 15U Midget AA Tues 3/31 @ 6:00pm Coach Tom Giordano Phone: 866-5285 Email: tgiordano153@yahoo.com

16U Midget Tournament Bound Tues 3/31 @ 7:00pm and Wed 4/1 @ 6:00pm Coach Kevin Smith Phone: 907-9424 Email- the4smittys@yahoo.com 18U Midget Tournament Bound Wed 4/1 @ 8:00pm Coach Guy Fratello Email-norp76@aol.com

All tryouts are at the Hyde Park Ice Arena All tryouts are $15 per tryout

• Please bring a copy of birth certificate • All players must have signed release if from a different organization Visit our wesite for more information

www.niagaracountycoyotes.com

20

TRYOUT EDITION 2015-2016

Rochester Yo

TRYO

Boys AAA Team

Facebook.com/ JuniorAmericans

@JuniorAmericans

Date Time

Squirt Minor AAA

3/16/2015 3/17/2015

6:15 - 7:15 PM 6:00 - 7:00 PM

Squirt Major AAA

3/16/2015 3/17/2015

7:00 - 8:00 PM 6:10 - 7:10 PM

Peewee Minor AAA

3/16/2015 3/17/2015

7:15 - 8:15 PM 7:00 - 8:00 PM

Peewee Major AAA 12u Tier 1 T/B

3/16/2015 3/17/2015

8:00 - 9:00 PM 7:10 - 8:10 PM

Bantam Minor AAA

4/6/2015 4/7/2015

5:40 - 7:10 PM 5:45 - 7:15 PM

Bantam Major AAA 14u Tier 1 T/B 4/6/2015

4/7/2015

6:10 - 7:40 PM 7:15 - 8:45 PM

U15 AAA (Split Season)

4/6/2015 4/7/2015

8:40 - 10:10 PM 7:40 - 9:10 PM

U16 AAA (USPHL & Split Season)

4/6/2015 4/7/2015

7:10 - 8:40 PM 6:10 - 7:40 PM

U18 AAA (USPHL & Split Season)

4/6/2015 4/7/2015

7:40 - 9:10 PM 8:45 - 10:15 PM

WHAT ARE YOU DOING THIS OFF-SEAS TO IMPACT YOUR GAME?

#IMPACT

YOUR SKIL YOUR AGIL YOUR OFF-

wnyhockeyreport.com

21

outh Hockey

OUTS Boys AA Team

Date Time

Squirt Minor AA

3/18/2015 3/19/2015

6:10 - 7:10 PM 6:00 - 7:00 PM

Squirt Major AA

3/18/2015 3/19/2015

7:00 - 8:00 PM 6:10 - 7:10 PM

Peewee Minor AA

3/18/2015 3/19/2015

7:10 - 8:10 PM 7:00 - 8:00 PM

Peewee Major AA

3/18/2015 3/19/2015

8:10 - 9:10 PM 7:10 - 8:10 PM

Bantam Minor AA

4/8/2015 4/9/2015

6:10 - 7:10 PM 6:00 - 7:00 PM

Bantam Major AA

4/8/2015 4/9/2015

7:00 - 8:00 PM 7:00 - 8:00 PM

Midget Minor U15 AA (Split Season) 4/8/2015

4/9/2015

8:10 - 9:10 PM 6:10 - 7:10 PM

Midget Minor U16 AA (Split Season) 4/8/2015

4/9/2015

7:10 - 8:10 PM 7:10 - 8:10 PM

Midget Minor U18 AA (Split Season) 4/8/2015

4/9/2015

8:00 - 9:00 PM 8:10 - 9:10 PM

Check our website for updates & time changes

www.ryhockey.com

SON

LLS LITY -SEASON

www.ifloorball.us

wnyhockeyreport.com

TRYOUT EDITION 2015-2016

Wheatfield Blades

2015-2016 Travel Team Tryout Schedule

WHEATFIELD BLADES 2015-2016 Tryouts: $15 per session TRAVEL TEAM TRYOUT SCHEDULE

DIVISION

BIRTH YEAR

DATE

TIME

COACH

LOCATION

Squirt Minor AAA

2006

March 16, 2015 March 17, 2015

6:30 PM 6:30 PM

Jonathan Zemrac

Hockey Outlet

Squirt Major AAA

2005

March 16, 2015 March 17, 2015

5:30 PM 5:30 PM

Kristopher Kinsella

Hockey Outlet

Squirt Major AA

2005 / 2006

March 16, 2015 March 17, 2015

7:30 PM 7:30 PM

Darrell Porter

Hockey Outlet

PeeWee Minor AAA

2004

March 16, 2015 March 17, 2015

5:40 PM 5:40 PM

Matthew McIntyre

Cornerstone Arena

PeeWee Minor AA

2004

March 16, 2015 March 17, 2015

7:40 PM 7:40 PM

Tony Brovata

Cornerstone Arena

2003

March 16, 2015 March 17, 2015

6:40 PM 6:40 PM

Joe Stumpo

Cornerstone Arena

PeeWee Major II AA

2003

March 16, 2015 March 17, 2015

8:40 PM 8:40 PM

Gary Rennick

Cornerstone Arena

Bantam Minor AAA

2002

March 31, 2015 April 1, 2015

5:40 PM 5:40 PM

Matt Spameni

Cornerstone Arena

Bantam Minor II AA

2002

March 31, 2015 April 1, 2015

7:40 PM 7:40 PM

Rob Kalota

Cornerstone Arena

2001

March 31, 2015 April 1, 2015

6:40 PM 6:40 PM

Sean Fitzgerald

Cornerstone Arena

Bantam Major II AA

2001

March 31, 2015 April 1, 2015

8:40 PM 8:40 PM

Ken Dewey

Cornerstone Arena

Midget 15U AAA

2000

March 31, 2015 April 1, 2015

6:30 PM 6:30 PM

Lotempio / Kostiw

Hockey Outlet

Midget 15U II AA

2000

March 31, 2015 April 1, 2015

8:30 PM 8:30 PM

Dave Cannon

Hockey Outlet

Midget 15U II AA

2000

March 31, 2015 April 1, 2015

8:30 PM 8:30 PM

Jim Michalowski

Hockey Outlet

Split Season “Tournament Bound”

1999

March 31, 2015 April 1, 2015

5:30 PM 5:30 PM

Tom Beamish

Hockey Outlet

Midget 16U II AA

1999

March 31, 2015 April 1, 2015

9:30 PM 9:30 PM

Dan Stinis

Hockey Outlet

Split Season “Tournament Bound”

1997 / 1998

March 31, 2015 April 1, 2015

7:30 PM 7:30 PM

Bob Hermann

Hockey Outlet

Midget 18U II AA

1997 / 1998

March 31, 2015 April 1, 2015

10:30 PM 10:30 PM

Dan McMahon

Hockey Outlet

Girls 12U II AA

2003 / 2004

March 16, 2015 March 17, 2015

8:30 PM 8:30 PM

Patrick Bonner

Hockey Outlet

Girls 16U II AA

1999 / 2000

March 31, 2015 April 1, 2015

9:40 PM 9:40 PM

Patrick Bonner

Cornerstone Arena

PeeWee Major AAA “Tournament Bound”

Bantam Major AAA “Tournament Bound”

Midget 16U AAA

Midget 18U AAA

The The Wheatfield Blades hockeyassociation. association. information ouratwebsite.

Wheatfield Bladesare are aa “AAA” “AAA” hockey ForFor information pleaseplease visit ourvisit website www.wheatfieldblades.com.

House & Travel players (other than current WBTryouts: players) MUST have a release from their current Hockey Association. $15 per session House & Travel players (other than current WB MUST have a release their current Hockey Association.

All tryouts locations are players) listed above.

A deposit isfrom required at signing.

All tryouts locations are listed above. A deposit is required at signing.

www.wheatfieldblades.com

22

wnyhockeyreport.com

TRYOUT EDITION 2015-2016

TONAWANDA LIGHTNING 2015-16 TRYOUT SCHEDULE

Team Squirt Minor** Squirt Major** PeeWee Minor PeeWee Major (SB) Girls 12U Girls 14U

Birth Years 2006 2005 2004 2003 2003-06 2001-02

Bantam Minor Bantam Major (SB) Midget 15U Midget 16U (SB) Midget 18U (SB)

2002 2001 2000 1999-00 1997-98

Dates Mar 16-17 Mar 16-17 Mar 16-17 Mar 16-17 Mar 16-17 Mar 31 April 1 Mar 31 – Apr 1 Mar 31 – Apr 1 Mar 31 – Apr 1 Mar 31 – Apr 1 Mar 31 – Apr 1

** A 3rd Squirt Team (Mixed) may be formed based on player availability • No residency requirement – Non-residents welcome!

• Release & copy of birth certificate required for new players • One time $20 tryout fee covers all sessions • $300 non-refundable deposit due at player signing

Times 6:15 pm 5:00 pm 8:45 pm 7:30 pm 6:00 pm 8:00 pm 5:00 pm 6:00 pm 7:00 pm 8:00 pm 5:00 pm 9:00 pm

Location Brighton Arena Brighton Arena Brighton Arena Brighton Arena Hyde Park Hyde Park Hyde Park Hyde Park Hyde Park Hyde Park Hyde Park Hyde Park

(SB) Team is State Bound Eligible • Questions? Contact Tom Diehl 860-2332 or Sam DeFranks 462-3277 • Visit our website for updates

www.tonawandalightning.org

w e N

Wheatfield

Blades

GIRLS HOCKEY PROGRAM Teams being formed at the 12U and 16U levels For details contact Head Coach Pat Bonner 984-9088 patbonner11@yahoo.com

23

wnyhockeyreport.com

TRYOUT EDITION 2015-2016

24

Try-out Schedule Mite – Squirt – PeeWee - Girls 12/u

2015-2016 Season Team Mite Development

ALL TRY-OUTS @ HAMBURG RINK Mite Development is a program to target young players and push them to the next level following USA Hockey requirements.

Tryout fee is $15 per session. Any player that did not play in the Hamburg Hawks organization, house or travel, for the 2014-2015 season must provide a NYSAHA player release from your previous organization.

All coaches to be posted online at: www.HamburgHawks.org

Birth Year 2008 2007

Squirt Minor

2006

Squirt Major

2005

PeeWee Minor

2004

PeeWee Major TB

2003

PeeWee II 2004/03 Girls 12/under 2003/under Tournament Bound Girls 12/under 2003/under non-tournament bound

Date Tuesday Thursday Tuesday Thursday Monday Wednesday Monday Tuesday Monday Wed Monday Tuesday Friday Tuesday Thursday Friday Thursday

3/17/15 3/19/15 3/17/15 3/19/15 3/16/16 3/18/15 3/16/15 3/17/15 3/16/15 3/18/15 3/16/15 3/17/15 3/20/15 3/17/15 3/19/15 3/20/15 3/24/15

Time 5 pm 6 pm 5 pm 7 pm 5 pm 7 pm 6 pm 7 pm 7 pm 8 pm 8 pm 8 pm 6:45 pm 6 pm 8 pm 5:30 pm 6 pm

2015-16 Tryouts Lockport Express invites all players looking for a high end hockey experience with quality coaching in a brand new, state of the art arena, to come join our successful, growing program.

15UAA Midget

Look for our

April 2015

Tryout Issue

16UAAA Midget

18UAAA Midget

March 31st at TBA Times, 7pm at Dates & Cornerstone Head Coach: Coaching Ice Arena Lyle Rocker Staff April 1st TBA 716-435-1003 TBA Head Coach: Asst. Coach: Jay Tagliarino Jay Guenther 716-418-0428 Asst. Coach: Mike Scheeler Thank you for your support in our inaugural season!

Please see our team site for details:

www.lockportexpress.com

wnyhockeyreport.com

TRYOUT EDITION 2015-2016

2015-16 Tryouts TEAM

COACH

TRYOUT

SQUIRT MINOR SCTA

PAUL SULLIVAN

SQUIRT MAJOR SCTA

ROB PETERS

SQUIRT MINOR AA WNY

CHARLIE MURDOUGH

SQUIRT MAJOR AAA WNY

JOHN BAK

PEEWEE MINOR SCTA

GENE KNABB-STEVE LOVULLO

PEEWEE MAJOR SCTA

TERRY MILLER

MONDAY 3/16/2015 TUESDAY 3/17/2015 MONDAY 3/16/2015 TUESDAY 3/17/2015 WEDNESDAY 3/18/2015 THURSDAY 3/19/2015 TUESDAY 3/17/2015 WEDNESDAY 3/18/2015 MONDAY 3/16/2015 TUESDAY 3/17/2015 MONDAY 3/16/2015

PEEWEE MINOR AAA WNY

DEAN SCHWENKBECK

PEEWEE MAJOR AAA WNY

TOM KOWALSKI

PEEWEE MINOR AA WNY

RICH YEAGER

BANTAM MINOR SCTA

TONY RICOTTA

BANTAM MAJOR SCTA

BRIAN COX

BANTAM MINOR AA WNY

BILL GEE

BANTAM MAJOR AAA WNY JAMIE DEWALD

TRYOUT DATE

RINK TIME

5:15 PM 5:30 PM 6:15 PM 6:30 PM 5:30 PM 7:00 PM 5:15 PM 6:30 PM 5:30 PM 6:15 PM 6:30 PM

HOLIDAY HOLIDAY HOLIDAY HOLIDAY HOLIDAY HOLIDAY HOLIDAY HOLIDAY HOLIDAY HOLIDAY HOLIDAY

TUESDAY 3/17/2015 WEDNESDAY 3/18/2015 MONDAY 3/16/2015 WEDNESDAY 3/18/2015 TUESDAY 3/17/2015 THURSDAY 3/19/2015 TUESDAY 3/31/2015 WEDNESDAY 4/1/2015 TUESDAY 3/31/2015 WEDNESDAY 4/1/2015 WEDNESDAY 4/1/2015 THURSDAY 4/2/2015 TUESDAY 3/31/2015 WEDNESDAY 4/1/2015 TUESDAY 3/31/2015 TUESDAY 3/31/2015 WEDNESDAY 4/1/2015 TUESDAY 3/31/2015 WEDNESDAY 4/1/2015

7:15 PM 7:30 PM 8:15 PM 8:30 PM 8:15 PM 7:30 PM 5:00 PM 4:30 PM 6:00 PM 5:30 PM 6:45 PM 7:00 PM 8:30 PM 6:30 PM 7:00 PM 3:30-4:50 PM 3:30-4:50 PM 7:15-8:30 PM 6:30-7:30 PM

HOLIDAY HOLIDAY HOLIDAY HOLIDAY HOLIDAY HOLIDAY HOLIDAY HOLIDAY HOLIDAY HOLIDAY LEISURE HOLIDAY HOLIDAY LEISURE HOLIDAY BUFF STATE BUFF STATE HOLIDAY HOLIDAY

MIDGET 15U SCTA MIDGET MAJOR 18U AAA

JOHN BRAUN MATT BARNABY

MIDGET MINOR 16U AAA

KYLE QUICK

MIDGET MAJOR AAA WNY

DARRYL McLAUGHLIN

WEDNESDAY 4/1/2015 THURSDAY 4/2/2015

9:30 PM 8:15 PM

HOLIDAY HOLIDAY

MIDGET MINOR AAA WNT

TOM BROMWELL

WEDNESDAY 4/1/2015 THURSDAY 4/2/2015

5:45 PM 8:30 PM

LEISURE HOLIDAY

GIRLS 10U

MIKE HARRINGTON

MONDAY 3/16/2015 THURSDAY 3/19/2015

7:15 PM 6:00 PM

HOLIDAY HOLIDAY

GIRLS 12U

CHRIS UTZ

MONDAY 3/16/2015 THURSDAY 3/19/2015

7:15 PM 6:00 PM

HOLIDAY HOLIDAY

GIRLS 14U TIER 1

TOM RUGGIERO

TUESDAY 3/31/2015 TUESDAY 3/31/2015 WEDNESDAY 4/1/2015

4:00 PM 8:00 PM 7:30 PM

HOLIDAY HOLIDAY HOLIDAY

GIRLS 16U TIER 1

DARREN KING

GIRLS 19U TIER 1

ANTON WOPPERER

TUESDAY 3/31/2015 WEDNESDAY 4/1/2015 TUESDAY 3/31/2015 WEDNESDAY 4/1/2015

8:00 PM 7:30 PM 9:00 PM 8:30 PM

HOLIDAY HOLIDAY HOLIDAY HOLIDAY

The Buffalo Regals are a “AAA” hockey association. For information please visit our website. House & Travel players (other than current players) MUST have a release from their current Hockey Association. All tryouts locations are listed above.

A deposit is required at signing. Tryouts: $15 per session.

www.buffaloregals.org

25

wnyhockeyreport.com

TRYOUT EDITION 2015-2016

West Seneca Jr. Wings 2015-2016 Mite Tryouts Sunday, March 8 Mite Minor AAA (2008) Mite Major AAA (2007)

10:45 am 12:00 pm

Monday, March 9 Mite Minor AAA (2008) Mite Major AAA (2007)

5:30 pm 6:30 pm

Mite Minor AAA Coach: Mike Robertson, 997-0860, Michael.g.robertson@citi.com Mite Major AAA Coach: David Cerroni, 604-6263, davidjcerroni@gmail.com

The West Seneca Jr. Wings are a “AAA” hockey association governed by AAU and our teams compete in the Greater Niagara Amateur Hockey League (GNAHL).

It is FULL ICE Mite Hockey.

Tryouts: $15 per session All tryouts are at the West Seneca Town Rink.

House and Travel players (other than current West Seneca Wings players) MUST have a release from their current Hockey Association.

A deposit is required at signing.

Wheatfield Jr Blades AAU Teams 2015-2016 Travel Team Tryout Schedule

DIVISION

BIRTH YEAR

DATE

TIME

COACH

LOCATION

Mite Development

2009

March 8, 2015

1:45 PM

Marc Braun

Hockey Outlet

Mite Minor AAA

2008

March 8, 2015 March 9, 2015

12:35 PM 5:50 PM

Dan Vogel

Hockey Outlet

Mite Minor AAA

2008

March 8, 2014 March 10, 2014

12:35 PM 5:30 PM

Duncan Smith

Hockey Outlet

Mite Major AAA

2007

March 9, 2014 March 10, 2014

6:50 PM 6:30 PM

Nick Schmidt

Hockey Outlet

The Wheatfield Jr. Blades are a “AAA” hockey association governed by AAU and our teams compete inthe Greater Niagara Amateur Hockey League (GNAHL) Full Ice Mite Hockey Tryouts: $15 per session House & Travel players (other than current WB players) MUST have a release from their current Hockey Association.

All tryout locations are listed above. A deposit is required at signing.

Go to GNAHL.COM for information on SQ-Midgets.

26

TRYOUT EDITION 2015-2016

wnyhockeyreport.com

27

Attention Ladies

Niagara County Lady Coyotes Now forming 19U, 16U (Tournament Bound II), 14U, and 12U teams 2015 –2016 Travel Team Tryouts Mar 31st 5:00 - 6:00 pm Apr 2nd 6:00 - 7:00 pm Apr 10th 6:00 - 7:00 pm • All tryouts are at the Hyde Park Ice Arena • All tryouts are $10 per tryout • Please bring a copy of birth certificate • All players must have signed release if from a different organization Any questions, please contact: Coach Bill (Fanton) Email – coachbill013@hotmail.com Cell – (716) 378-6226

http://www.niagaracountyladycoyotes.com

Mite Major AAU 2015-2016 Tryouts Depew Ice Pavillion

March 9th & 10th: 5:00 pm Coach Grant Gunsher Email: Ggunsh@roadrunner.com

www.saintshockey.com

Around The Associations

28

Around The Associations Submitted by local association representatives Edited by Michael Mroziak

AMHERST YOUTH HOCKEY Congratulations are in order for the championship win by the Girls 16U team, who won the Sarah Backstrom 21st Annual Memorial Hockey Tournament in Erie, PA. This team is coached by Darren Palaszewski.

by Ben Foster. Lawton Zacher put forth an outstanding effort in goal, making 22 saves to earn the shut out.

BUFFALO STARS Stars alumnus Joey Rohm was recently honored with the Ullom Award, presented by the University of Alabama Frozen Tide. The award is presented to the player who most epitomizes the spirit of hockey as voted by his teammates.

Rohm played his entire youth career with the same association, first as a Buffalo Hornet and finished his local career as a Buffalo Stars Junior. He is one of three Hornets/Stars players to have his jersey retired. It now hangs in the rafters of Holiday Twin Rinks.

CAZENOVIA PARK The Caz Lady Chiefs 19U tournament-bound squad swept their division in the Sarah Backstrom Memorial Tournament in Erie in early February, going 4-0 with 17 goals scored and only one allowed.

BUD BAKEWELL BRUINS The Bud Bakewell Bantam Mixed team is celebrating its recent win at Three Rivers tournament in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The three-and-a half-hour drive proved to be a worthwhile trip for the bantam mixed team, who won all three preliminary games, including two shutouts by goaltender Alex Kubiniec and 5-2 win the title game over the Bradford (PA) Owls.

The entire team contributed through the championship run. Goals came from #27 Sean Hedrick (Amherst), #32 Sean Doyle (Amherst), #11 Joel Steimle (Amherst), #17 Joshua Walerowicz (Sanborn), #7 Brett Leckey (Buffalo), #16 Luke Bailey (Buffalo), #2 Lucas Mills (Kenmore) and #28 Evan Waggoner (Kenmore).

Assists came from #10 Trey Perry (Amherst), #14 Ken Brown (Buffalo), Mills, Leckey, Bailey, Steimle, Hedrick and Waggoner. Also contributing to the team win were #9 Sal Syracuse (Buffalo), #12 Mike Steimle (Amherst), #97 Vince Fiorella (Buffalo) and #25 Jake Butkowski (Tonawanda).

BUFFALO SAINTS The 2002 Pee Wee Majors earned a trip to the New York State Tournament at Bill Gray’s Iceplex in Rochester in mid March.

The team won their last three “Q” games of the season to punch their ticket to Rochester. Those wins came over the West Seneca Wings (4-1), Amherst Knights (40) and Rochester Monarchs (2-0) the number two seed in the West Region. During their Q-game schedule, the Saints scored 23 goals, more than three times what they conceded.

In the final game against the Monarchs, Nolan Gorecki led the charge with a first period goal, assisted

by Michael Suda and Ben Foster, and Zach Kent sealed the victory with a third period empty netter assisted

CLARENCE MUSTANGS The Mustangs Pee Wee teams recently hosted and played against a team from the Beijing Hockey Association. Yes, that Beijing, in China.

The guests played five games against Clarence’s squads at Lockport’s Cornerstone CFCU Arena, Hockey Outlet and the HarborCenter, wrapping up the “international friendly” on February 9 at the HarborCenter.

HAMBURG HAWKS The Hawks 12U Girls team traveled to Lake Placid in early February to participate in the 12U division of the Empire State Games. The girls defeated CNY, 5-0, and Monroe, 2-1, in preliminary play to earn a bye to the semifinals. After defaeting Chazy 5-0 to earn a spot in the gold medal round, Hamburg then went on to defeat Monroe 9-3 in the championship game and claim the gold medal.

NIAGARA JR. PURPLE EAGLES The NJPE Squirt Tier III team won their division with some drama, taking a must-win game along the way which helped them secure the top spot.

With goals from Anthony Harlock (2), Christen Kessler (3), Gavin Cerillo, Nolan Mitchell and Anthony Volpe, four assists from Ryan Devald and a shut out from Cal Meteer, they cruised to an 8-0 victory over Olean.

Contributing to the win with outstanding defense were Dylan Evert, Braden Muldoon, James McInally,

WNYHockeyReport.com

Dominick Paonessa and Tommy Meal, who held Olean to seven total shots for the game. Gavin Cerillo, Nolan Mitchell and Anthony Volpe also scored.

Other notable performances from the division champions are Michael Greer with two assists, with Idrius Falletta, Max Chenez and Joey Genovese also adding one assist each.

The Eagles finish league play with a 11-2-2 record and have an overall record of 18-18-4. The team had the second highest goals for (61), and the league leading goals against (18) for league play. The team will face off against the winner of Jamestown vs. Brockport later in the month.

The Squirt Major team finished their league schedule undefeated, claiming their division championship in the Western New York Amateur Hockey League.

Ryan Kramp’s four goals, including his 50th of the season, led Niagara to a 7-3 win over the Clarence Mustangs. Nicholas Hess added a goal and an assist while Liam Snyder and Rocco Randazzo also scored.

Matthew Ceccato, Jack Stravino, Michael Baio, Aidan Robins and Owen Kiesman were all credited with assists. Michael Foglia got the win in net.

The line of Ryan Kramp, Aidan Robins and Cameron McIntyre accounted for a goal and an assist each as the Eagles defeated the Rochester Americans, 5-4. Liam Snyder and Jack Stravino scored the other goals for the winners with Rocco Randazzo notching an assist. Nolan Szczesniak picked up the win between the pipes.

Michael Foglia earned the shutout in Niagara’s 7-0 win over the Perinton Blades. Nicholas Hess paced the attack with two goals and an assist. Ryan Kramp also scored twice while Aidan Robins and Liam Snyder added a goal and an assist each. Rocco Randazzo rounded out the Eagles goal scorers. Matthew Ceccato racked up a pair of assists, with single helpers credited to Michael Baio, Jack Stravino, and Cameron McIntyre.

The line of Liam Snyder, Matthew Ceccato and Nicholas Hess accounted for six goals in Niagara’s 7-2 win over the Hamburg Hawks. Snyder led the way with five goals and an assist. Hess dished out five assists and Ceccato chipped in a goal and an assist. Aidan Robins scored the other goal on an assist from Thomas Dworak.

Nolan Szczesniak was the winning goaltender.

The Eagles finish league play with a 13-0-2 record and have an overall record of 31-12-5. Other members of the division champions are Justin Walker, Cameron Washburn, Ian Pachura, and Ryan Chenaille.

PERINTON The 2006 PYH Blades Mite Red finished second recently in the Roy Austin Tournament in Rome, one of the longest running Mite tournaments in Upstate New York.

This year’s tournament featured 28 Mite teams from across the state. The Blades won two of their three preliminary contests with their only loss coming to the local New Hartford Spartans.

In the semifinal, the Blades won a hard-fought matchup against their own PYH Blades Red compatriots (who ultimately placed third by winning their consolation game). The semifinal victory earned

Around The Associations

the Blades a rematch against the Spartans. This time around, the Blades controlled the play but stellar goaltending by the Spartans resulted in a 1-1 tie in regulation. The teams agreed to a six-minute overtime to determine a champion. New Hartford prevailed with a goal in the last minute of the overtime.

The Perinton association salutes the boys for their great play and their great character as they represented the Blades in Rome.

ROCHESTER MONARCHS The Monarchs 2002 PeeWee Major AAA team won the championship of the recent Rochester Americans tournament.

The Monarchs went 2-0-1 in round robin play with a 2-2 tie coming against the North Pittsburgh Wildcats, an 8-5 win over the Buffalo Saints and a 3-2 win over the Green Mountain Glades. In the semifinal against the top-seeded Buffalo Regals, the Monarchs started out fast with three goals and held on for the 3-1 win. In the final against the Peterborough Petes, the Ontariobased opponents jumped out to a 2-0 lead but the Monarchs rallied to force a tie and overtime. In the extra session, goalie Grant Riley made a big save that forced a shootout.

In the shootout, Teagan Spang scored while Riley stopped all three Petes shooters to clinch the championship.

ROCHESTER EDGE The Hawks 12U Girls team traveled to Lake Placid in eaThe Rochester Edge Girls Hockey organization is pleased to announce a restructuring of their leadership. This restructuring includes the establishment of a Board of Directors that will operate independently of any specific youth hockey organization. Rochester Edge will continue its affiliation with the Rochester Youth Hockey and Monroe County Youth Hockey organizations and will seek to grow more partnerships with other local youth hockey organizations in an effort to provide the best opportunities for girls to play hockey in the Rochester area at whatever level they choose.

Kevin Yackel has been named President of the Rochester Edge Girls Hockey organization. Additionally, Ned Corbett has been named VP of Coaching Development and George Ferguson has been named VP of Player Development. Current MCYH Girls Director, Sue Olsen and RYH Girls Director, Tom McDonald, will also be involved with the organization at an advisory level.

As part of this organizational change, the Edge will be actively seeking to fill additional positions of their leadership team.

If you have any questions regarding the Rochester Edge Girls Hockey organization, you may contact them

at info@rochesteredge.com. For more information see their new website at www.rochesteredge.com.

WEST SENECA As the West Seneca season was moving along, the association was having some fun reflecting on some of the strange superstitions carried out in the magnificent game.

They include taping your stick a certain way, not touching the Stanley Cup until one has won it, goalies who talk to the posts before the game because they are their best friends, “skating to one song and one song only,” and so on.

There has even been a number one hit named “Superstition” by Stevie Wonder. It was a hit in the same year that the Buffalo Sabres drafted Morris Titanic with the 12th overall pick in the NHL entry draft and the last of four consecutive years where Phil Esposito led the NHL in scoring. That year was 1973.

The West Seneca program believes there is nothing superstitious about its hockey. Teamwork, discipline, teaching the kids to have fun and love the game is the foundation and West Seneca is a terrific hockey community and has been for over forty years.

Athletic Republic Rochester is pleased to announce our Athlete of the Month for February.

Shaun Patry

Rochester Junior Americans Premier Forward

Look for our

April 2015

Tryout Issue

Shaun in his fifth season with the Junior Americans program, is having a terrific season with the Junior Americans Premier team. He has 18 goals and 25 assists through 45 games. He’s was named USPHL Offensive Player of the Week after scoring three goals and tallying six assists in a three game sweep at the USPHL Showcase on February 15th & 16th. Athletic Republic is proud of his accomplishments including being a USPHL Premier Division All-Star selection. Congratulations Shaun!

www.athleticrepublicrochester.com 585-426-8488 AthleticRepublicRochester

WNYHockeyReport.com

29

ARRochester

Dillon Hayes

30

Dillon Hayes - An Emotional Day

by Randy Schultz Randy@wnyhockeyreport.com Lockport Express coach Frank Vecchio says that he has seen a lot in his 30-plus years of being involved in hockey. But he will be the first one to admit that what he witnessed during an Express game in late January topped it all.

Imagine that a young hockey player loses his father just hours before a game. The player goes out and plays the game of his life, scoring all three goals for his team in leading them to victory.

What Vecchio was referring to happened over the course of a full day. It began early on the morning of Saturday, January 31.

As the day began, the Lockport hockey coach’s thoughts drifted to the idea that the Express had a big game that night against their archrivals, the Roc City Royals.

But Vecchio received a message from Dillon Hayes, a player on the Express team. The young Hayes’ father, Tim, had a massive heart attack and had died. For Vecchio the message had twice the impact that it should have.

Not only was he feeling sorrow for his young player, but Tim Hayes was also Vecchio’s best friend.

The elder Hayes was only 52. Just a year earlier he had a liver transplant.

While the recovery was at times difficult, to say the least, things had been looking up for Tim. That was, until, the early morning hours of January 31.

The Express coach headed immediately to the hospital

where he spent a good portion of the afternoon with the Hayes family.

“While I was there Dillon came over to me and told me that he was planning on playing that night,” recalled Vecchio. “I told him that he didn’t have to, especially under the circumstances.

“But Dillon told me that his father had told him the night before that he was coming to the game. I think Dillon believed that his father would be there in some way for his game.

“So I let him play. I made it Dillon’s night.

“I let him pick the starting lineup. His lineup included Ryan Logar, Anthony Merante, Alex Bottenfield and Justin Durkee. Tyler Shotwell started in goal.”

What happened next, according to Vecchio, could only have happened in Hollywood. Or maybe Brett Farve, as a starting quarterback for the Green Bay Packers during a nationally televised football game, only hours after his father had died.

“You have to understand that Dillon is normally a third line player on our team,” stated Vecchio. “But what I’ve always liked about Dillon is that he plays with a lot of heart and determination.

“He scored both of our regulation time goals, including the game tieing goal with just 47 seconds left in the game.

We had to go to a shootout.

“Don’t ask me why, but I put Dillon in as our fifth shooter.

We went through our first four shooters without scoring.

“Roc City went through all five of theirs and didn’t score.

Dillon stepped up and scored the game-winning goal.

“The arena just exploded. Nobody could believe what they had just witnessed.

“I couldn’t believe what I saw. There is no doubt in my mind that there was something special going on in our arena that night.”

What Vecchio witnessed next left him speechless.

“Right after Dillon scored, everyone came off our bench and mobbed him,” said Vecchio. “But then the entire Roc City team came over to Dillon, one by one, hugged him, shook his hand and offered up words of condolence to him.

“Considering how the teams play against each other on the ice, hitting and fighting and all, this was just unbelievable.

“It was a night that all of us in attendance will remember for a long time to come. It was special.”

The 24th Annual

High School Stars Spring-Summer Hockey League for players ages 14-18 and is an AAU sanctioned league • 12 games • 2 practices • FREE Playoffs • FREE Bauer 800 Series Jersey Register as a team or individual.

We will offer (2) Varsity Divisions and a JV division

The 24th Annual “High School Stars” summer hockey league is now accepting applications for the 2015 season.

This competitive league provides a great opportunity to stay sharp this Summer and compete vs. other high quality teams.

The league will feature 16-20 teams in competitive divisions and will begin play the weekend of April 24th.

Call 716-685-3660 or register on-line @ holidayrinks.com

Cost per individual is $300.

Pay in FULL in a SINGLE INSTALLMENT and Save $30.00 or $ 100.00 is due with application.

WNY’S HOCKEY HEADQUARTERS • SINCE 1972 WNYHockeyReport.com

Future Sabres

Future Sabres: JT Compher

by Warren Kozireski Warren@wnyhockeyreport.com Joseph Taylor Compher is experiencing a bit of a sophomore slump at the University of Michigan, but one could almost have predicted it.

The second round draft choice

by Buffalo (35th overall) in the 2013 entry draft, the then 18 year old months later was a traditional freshman playing for the iconic Red Berenson as a Wolverine.

All he did was lead the team in scoring with 11 goals and 20 assists and named Big Ten Freshman of the Year as well as a Second Team choice for the conference.

Last spring he was chosen by his teammates to be one of their assistant captains for this season—a rare honor for any sophomore even though many in the hockey community tend to be older, but even more so for one who won’t turn 20 until this April.

23 games into this season, the 5’11”, 193 lb. center had just four goals with nine assists and was skating on the third line in late January, though seeing time on the penalty kill where he can use his speed and agitating style. He also was held pointless over five games with Team USA at the Under-20 World Junior championships.

But the Sabres former front office clearly saw the Compher of old before they selected him with a pick acquired from Carolina as the second leading scorer with the U.S. National Development team and the player who, prior to this year, had five goals and seven assists in 13 games representing Team USA at two previous international competitions.

“It’s (being a captain) is something I try to do on every team, take on a leadership role and I think that, through my work ethic and competing, that’s what guys see out of me,” Compher said in late January. “I’ve enjoyed it so far and we have a really easy group to talk to whether something is going right or something is going wrong; it’s been fun.

“I work as hard as I can and get to those dirty areas—I wish I was doing a little bit better—but two-way and using my speed.”

Compher is art of a large stable of prospects stockpiled

by Buffalo. Like him several are primarily centers such as Zemgus Girgensons, Mikhail Grigorenko and the net of the 2015 draft—likely either Connor McDavid or Jack Eichel. That could mean an eventual shift to the wing, which he has played on occasion with Team USA and Michigan.

“I talk to some of the guys, but overall I’m focused on being here in Michigan and putting a run together to get to the postseason and working on my own game. I pride myself on doing whatever the team needs me to do to win and that’s (a move to wing) obviously up to management and staff. I can’t control any of that stuff, so when the time comes that’s when we’ll figure that stuff out.”

In spite of his comparative struggles offensively this season, the Illinois native has a maturity and awareness unlike most 19 year olds.

As the warmup finishes prior to the rivalry game with Michigan State in front of a packed house at Detroit’s Joe Louis Arena, Compher is the last Wolverine off the ice. He takes the time to grab a puck, spot a young fan wearing the correct jersey and tosses him the puck on his way off the ice.

As if to demonstrate that he won’t let his personal struggles this season interfere with his or the team’s efforts, or forget what’s really important in the big picture.

Aurora Ice Association, home of the Winter Classic Rink in idyllic East Aurora, is having tryouts for their travel hockey teams.

Travel Try-Out

Tuesday, March 17th

Pee Wee 5:30pm - 6:45pm

Copy of Association financial release and a $20 tryout fee is required.

Be the first players and spectators to use and enjoy our new lodge opening Fall of this year!

**REQUIRED**

Email JCEMSRD@GMAIL to confirm attendance.

Weather permitting as tryout will move to another rink if exceptionally warm weather arrives!

East Aurora’s Healthy Zone Rink. 41 Riley Street, East Aurora, NY 14052.

WNYHockeyReport.com

31

Men’s Club Hockey Report

32

College Club: ACHA, NCHA prepare for Nationals

by Michael Mroziak Michael@wnyhockeyreport.com

The season is winding down for college club hockey, with the American Collegiate Hockey Association and National Collegiate Hockey Association preparing to host their respective national championship tournaments in early March.

The ACHA’s Division 1 tournament and NCHA tournament will both be in Ohio, both beginning March 4. The ACHA Division 1 national championship will be hosted at OBM Arena in Strongsville, located just a few miles southwest of Cleveland. The NCHA tournament, meanwhile, will be held at the Lou & Gib Reese Ice Arena in Newark, Ohio, located about 20 miles east of Columbus.

The ACHA’s national championship tournament will be the larger of the two, running for an entire week, from March 4 to 10. In all, 20 teams will participate, though as of mid-February the participants were not yet finalized.

The University at Buffalo’s ACHA Division 1 team was best positioned among local schools to punch their ticket to the club hockey “dance,” holding first place firmly in the ACHA-affiliated Northeast Collegiate Hockey League with a record of 25-6 plus one shootout loss (51 points). UB was also ranked ninth overall in the

entire ACHA. Niagara University sat in third, behind UB and Syracuse, with a record 17-5 plus an overtime loss (35 points) but played nine fewer games than UB to that point. Their last regular season game played was a 19-1 blowout win over St. Bonaventure University.

Canisius was just four points behind Niagara in the NECHL standings with a record of 15-16 and one shootout loss in 32 games played.

The ACHA’s Division 2 tournament will be held in Salt Lake City, Utah, but no local clubs are scheduled to appear. In the ACHA’s Division 3, one Western New York team plays in the league, Fredonia State, but was not in contention to appear at the national tournament in Pelham, Alabama at press time.

UB was also vying for a chance to appear in the NCHA’s national championship tourney, which will feature six contenders. Through mid-February, UB’s NCHA team had a record of 12-4, including a fourgame winning streak and eight wins in their previous ten games. Sitting in second place in the Upstate New York Collegiate Hockey League’s West Division, the Bulls looked to be just outside looking in but final seedings were not yet set by the NCHA. The NCHA national championship will run from March 4 to March 7.

FIRST THINGS FIRST FOR THE BULLS Before packing their bags for Ohio and the ACHA tourney, the Bulls were preparing for the task of

running through the NECHL playoffs. They were scheduled to face Oswego followed by Syracuse and then a third opponent to be determined, based on their performances in the first two games. Both games were scheduled for the road.

Bobby Piotrowicz, Brenden Robinson and Michael Schalberg shared UB’s lead for goals scored with 16 apiece. With 26 assists as well, Piotrowicz led the team in overall scoring with 42 points. Robinson was second with 40 points and Schalberg in third with 37 points.

Schalberg led the team in power play goals with five.

Tyler Stark and Dylan Arnold shared most of the time defending the UB net, with Stark posting a 12-4 record (2.31 goals against average and .927 save percentage) and Arnold recording a 10-2 record (1.37 gaa, .956 save pct.). Arnold also posted four shutouts while Stark had one.

Maxwell Barone has appeared in five games for UB this season, posting a 3-0 record and has one stat the other goalies do not: an assist.

WOMEN’S CLUB Our women’s hockey correspondent, Janet Schultz, includes coverage of women’s college club hockey in her monthly column found elsewhere in this edition.

More information about the local club teams competing under the ACHA can be found at achahockey. org. You can follow the NCHA at ncha.us.

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33

Cornerstone Arena

34

Cornerstone Arena

by Randy Schultz Randy@wnyhockeyreport.com On the corner of Chestnut and Market Streets in downtown Lockport, there used to be a Twin Fair Store.

Then it became a Sears store.

Finally it was converted into a supermarket. After the supermarket closed that same building sat vacant for over 10 years.

Today, the building that housed that trio of retail businesses is gone. In its place is the new Cornerstone Arena. It is a state-of-the-art facility that houses two NHLsized ice rinks, spectator seating for 630, a Performance Training Center, community room, concession stands, locker rooms, meeting rooms, as well as retail space.

“We’ve come a long way since a local developer offered a million dollars to the city of Lockport to build an ice rink,” said John Ottaviano, the city attorney for Lockport and President of Lockport Ice Arena and Sports Center Board. “With the opening of this building, this marks the first time the city has had an ice rink since the Kenan Center closed its doors back in 1986.

“Seven years ago we formed Lockport Ice Arena and Sports Center, Inc., a non-profit board of nine people.

Over the seven years they raised $15 million to build what is now called the Cornerstone Arena.”

From the outside as well as the inside, it looks as though all 95,000 square feet of the facility has been used very wisely.

There is a main entrance, an atrium, for the general public. We wanted parents, grand parents and the general public to come through a separate set of doors.

On the second level of the facility is where a bus can go, drop off the athletes and they can enter through sliding doors.

“We decided to separate things and have separate entrances, thus causing less confusion and congestion,” commented Ottaviano.

There is also glass-enclosed area with tables and chairs to patrons to watch events from. Tenants are also being sought to fill some available retail space in the building.

There are also community rooms, which can be broken out into three separate rooms at each end of the arena.

Audio systems are set up in each rink for music and public announcements to be made.

One of the biggest highlights of the arena is the $1 million ice plant. It includes an “echo chiller” and an “echo dryer” which will heat water, heat sidewalks outside the

arena and pump warm air into the seating areas in the two rinks.

“There is constant 55-degree heat being pumped into the seating areas, in which all the seats are fastened to an aluminum housing,” added Ottaviano. “We are considered a ‘green arena.’

“We have energy efficient lighting in both arenas. We also have a state-of-the-art heating and dehumidifying systems.

“The system is glass enclosed. The reason for this is because we want the public to see what we have because it is the only one like it in the country.

“We also use two electric-driven Zamboni’s. And you will never find them dumping their ice shavings outside of the arena, like you see in most hockey arenas.

“Instead, the ice is dumped into an area where it melts and the water is used and recycled to heat the arena.

No door is ever opened down in the area where the Zamboni’s are.

When you enter the arena’s you will notice that there are Plexiglas cutouts at the player’s benches as well as the penalty boxes. This will allow sled hockey players to continually view the game while it is in progress.

The scoreboards in the arenas are used and came from a rink in Michigan.

The main tenant of the new arena is the Lockport Express Jr. hockey team.

Walk into their locker room and you will find a big, spacious area for the players to dress in.

Each player has his own stall, with a photo of the player hanging above the locker. It is a facility that is of the envy of other Junior teams.

Maybe Tate Pitrello, a Lockport Ice board member, summed the building up best.

“We consider this to be the best thing that’s happened in the city of Lockport in the past 50 years,” concluded Pitrello.

“We want to reach out to those people who live north, south, east and west of the Lockport area, as well as Lockport itself.

“We think we have a gem here in Lockport because we think we’ve done everything right.

This building is going to be a center point for

WNYHockeyReport.com

Lockport.

“We know this is a hockey town. The people are supporting it already, just like they did in the past when we had the Kenan Center.

“We’ve hosted one big tournament already here and it was a great success. We’re reaching out to as many people as we can to show them what a first-class operation we have here in Lockport.

“Lockport is a great hockey town and the Cornerstone Arena is a first-class hockey arena.”

In The Crease

The Modern Goaltender Benefits:

1. Stronger on post; better seal on post.

2. Stick can be more active breaking up jams, pass outs, and lateral feeds.

3. Less holes and better rebound control.

by Bob Janosz As you can see the goaltender has the short side sealed with the post leg down. The goaltender should also keep their inside leg up. This is to help provide strength on the post by the skate pushing the upper body into the post. Having the inside leg up also helps to transfer weight when moving laterally. The post side skate can seal the post 3 different ways.

1. Toe gap to post (the area of the pad between the toe of the skate and the bottom of the pad.)

2. Skate blade to post; 3. Shin of pad inside post. There are pros and cons with each method and ultimately the goaltender could end up using all 3 methods throughout the course of a game.

Flexibility and size usually determine the best method to seal the post for each individual goaltender. The game situation may also determine what method to use.

A “paddle down” post lean used on wraparounds and when there is a backdoor option. The paddle provides a good seal and can also take away the passing lane.

An example of a goaltender using a post lean to the glove side. Remember that this technique is only used when the puck is in the “net play” zone and there is a risk of wrap, jam, or pass out in tight. To the glove side the goaltender should have their backhand turned out to help block passes.

A

B

C

A

Common problems: 1. The goaltender uses the “post lean” on plays above the bottom of the circles.

2. The goaltender drops into the “post lean” too early and lose mobility.

3. The goaltender does not have the strength or technique to move laterally.

Since this save is relatively new there are many youth goalies that are not sure how or when to use it. A common problem is that the goalie is not patient when using it and they drop into it when there is no risk of a low attack, which puts them into a vulnerable position.

Or they drop into when the puck is too far away from the net and they open up the top of the net. Another problem or “complaint” by young goaltenders is they don’t feel like they can move laterally. This is either because they don’t have the strength yet or they do not know how to transfer their weight. Trial and error in practice is the best way to learn this technique. Be patient and only use it only when it’s the right situation

B

C

Bob Janosz is the goaltender coach for the AHL Rochester Americans and coaches and scouts for USA Hockey. He is also the owner of Janosz School of Goaltending. For more information on Janosz School of Goaltending Camps, Clinics, and Team Lessons go to www.bobjanosz.com or call 716-308-9224.

NIAGARA HOCKEY!

THANK YOU! To all our fans who attended games at Dwyer Arena this season!

We’ll see you next fall,

Support Your Purple Eagles! www.PurpleEagles.com WNYHockeyReport.com

35

Rochester Jr Americans

36

Rochester Jr Americans Young Commits to Endicott College The Rochester Junior Americans are proud to announce that forward Billy Young has committed to play collegiate hockey for Endicott College for the 20152016 season.

Young, a native of Kitchener, ON and a member of the Junior Americans USPHL Premier Division team, scored five goals and registered three assists in 18 games this season. Young was among the top forwards on the Premier team before his season was cut short prematurely due to injury.

Before joining the Junior Americans, Young was a standout at Kimball Union Academy and with the Kitchener Junior Rangers AAA program.

“Billy was a very good player when he came to us from Kimball, and he continued to be a strong player here,” said head coach Craig Macdonald. “He is a strong, skilled player who will continue to develop and find success at the collegiate level.”

Young will be a part of the inaugural Endicott College varsity hockey team, who are set to begin play in the ECAC Northeast Conference. The Gulls will play out of the brand new Raymond J. Borque Arena in Beverley, Massachusetts.

Junior Americans All-Stars Shine

ECAC West. Janzen scored 15 goals and notched 26 assists last season for the Junior Americans Elite team.

Introducing the Junior Americans Spring Selects Program

Spencer DeRidder and Sam DiBitetto represented the Junior Americans at the USPHL 16U All-Star Game.

Khamidov, Shaffer Named Empire Top Performers Rochester Junior Americans Empire team players Said Khamidov and William Shaffer were recognized as top performers by the USPHL. Khamidov and Shaffer were named top performers in the Empire North Division for the 2014-2015 season.

They were selected by the coaches throughout the USPHL Empire Division.

The Rochester Junior Americans are pleased to announce a Spring Development Program for 2003 and 2004 birth year Elite/AAA hockey players!

The Junior Americans Spring Selects 2003 & 2004 teams will participate in three elite-level AAA tournaments: • 2015 Harbor Center Spring Showcase (4/17-4/19, Buffalo, NY) • 2015 Niagara Bauer Hockey Challenge (4/24-4/26, Niagara Falls/St. Catherines, ON) • North American Prospects Showcase (6/19-6/21, Buffalo, NY) Teams will also have 11 hours of practice ice, four hours of off-ice development and team building including training at Athletic Republic, and much more.

Interested players can fill out a player application at http://www.junioramericans.com/springselects.

2015-2016 USPHL Premier Tryouts

Nine Junior Americans players participated in the 2015 United States Premier Hockey League All-Star Event held at Merrimack College on January 19th.

Junior Americans Premier team players Connor Boyd, T.J. Dockery, Conlan Keenan and Shaun Patry played in the Premier Division event. Forward Nick Petrella was selected as an All-Star but was unable to play due to injury.

Patry starred in the first Premier Division game, assisting on a first period goal, and scoring a minute into the second period. Patry and teammate Boyd’s American team fell 7-5 despite the strong showing from both players.

Keenan and Dockery teamed up in the second game, but their American team fell 9-3. Keenan tallied an assist on the first goal of the game.

Tryouts for the 2015-2016 Rochester Junior Americans USPHL Premier Division team will take place Saturday April 11th - Sunday April 12th, 2015 at Bill Gray’s Regional Iceplex in Rochester, NY. Tryouts are open to 1995-1999 birth years. For more information and to register, visit http://www. junioramericans.com/tryouts.

2015 USPHL Showcases The Rochester Junior Americans will be fielding two teams in the 2015 USPHL Spring (May 8th-10th) and Summer (July 16th-19th) Showcase events. These events are held at the New England Sports Center in Marlborough, MA. The USPHL Showcases are some of the most scouted events throughout the country For more information and to register visit http://www. junioramericans.com/showcases

Junior Americans Empire forward William Shaffer was named as a top performer in the USPHL Empire Division.

They are tied for the team lead with 57 points on the season. Khamidov, a native of Kiev, Ukraine, leads the team with 29 goals through 31 games this season.

Shaffer, a native of Portville, NY, has a team-best 35 assists in just 24 games this season.

USPHL 18U All-Stars Chris Perna, Nick Boyd, and Chris Peters.

18U players Nick Boyd, Chris Perna, and Chris Peters were a part of the victorious North Division team, helping the squad to a 4-2 victory over the South Division. Boyd assisted twice on goals by linemate Adam Blackman (South Shore Kings).

Spencer DeRidder and Sam DiBitetto were a part of the North Division squad that won 6-3 over their South Division counterparts. Jared Smith was selected to play in the All-Star game but was unable to play due to injury.

DiBitetto notched an assist to aid the North Division.

Janzen Named ECAC West Rookie of the Week Rochester Junior Americans alumnus Oliver Janzen of Nazareth College has been named the ECAC West Conference Rookie of the Week for the week ending February 8th.

Janzen, of Denver, Colorado, combined with linemates Ben Blasko and Dominik Gabaj for five goals and 12 assists in the Golden Flyers weekend series against Manhattanville. Janzen netted two goals and tallied three assists, scoring the tying and winning goals in a 4-2 win on Saturday.

On the season, Janzen has a team-high 10 goals and is tied for second with 19 points for the Golden Flyers, who are 11-7-4 overall and are in second place in the

WNYHockeyReport.com

Skate Ahead

37

Skate Ahead

by Randy Schultz Randy@wnyhockeyreport.com Jared Byer has been working in the health and fitness field for the past 22 years. During that time he has created a company called Skate Ahead of Western New York.

In early February he opened up a Skate Ahead franchise on the second floor of the new Cornerstone Ice Arena in Lockport.

“Our focus will be the off-ice nutrition, fitness and skills,” said Byer. “We don’t do any on-ice training.

“All of our training is off-ice.”

So is it all hockey players that will be the cliental?

“Ninety percent will be hockey players, five percent will be figure skaters and the final five percent will be adults,” replied Byer. “It will be year ‘round with the hockey.

“We begin with players who are five or six years-old.

And we work up from there with every level being agespecific.

“We will deal with speed, agility, quickness, power, conditioning, flexibility and prevention training.”

Will all of this be done in group training?

“Most of it will be done working with teams,” answered Byer. “But we can do small groups or private training as well.” vByer also pointed out that a player will not just walk in and begin training.

“We begin with an assessment,” continued Byer. “We want to see where they are going to begin with.

“We take care of recording all of their vital statistics. We have specific tests to see how they are going to perform.

“We check all of their areas for speed, agility, quickness, power and flexibility. They are then put on a schedule.

“With a team we will take up to nine players at a time.

They will all workout together.

“All workouts are 30 minutes. During the season we recommend that athletes come in at least twice a week for an hour at a time.

“During the off-season we recommend that they come in two to three times a week for a half-hour at a time.

“All athletes are equipped with a chest strap. This goes on as soon as they begin William Johnson – jump training. their workout.

“That chest strap is transmitting their heart rate and their intensity rate to a screen that they can see on the wall in front of them. The athlete can see how things are changing in their body as they work out.

“Everything is recorded from start to finish. It gives the athlete the ability to see how hard they are working, what intensity levels we want them at. Finally, as a coach, we can see who is working hard, who is not working hard and who may be overworking.

“It’s all done in real time. In the end we send those

Squat training front to back: Owen Fogle, Lockport JV and NJPE Travel, Andrew Haseley, North Park, Lockport JV and Bud Bakewell Hockey and William Johnson from Lockport High School. results to the player in the form of an email.

“They can then see how hard they worked and where they might need to improve. Plus, we check out their nutrition.

“We look at their weight to see if they need to gain or lose weight. We can tell the athlete when they need to eat, how to eat, what to eat and how all of that will affect their performance.

“It is very powerful stuff.”

What is the bottom line for participants?

“It has always been believed that you can perform better on the ice if you keep working out on the ice,” stated Byer. “But we believe that you can’t perform better on the ice unless you have the skills off the ice.

“Being an ex-player myself, I know there are things you can’t do to prepare for better ice performance on the ice.

“You have to do them off ice. In the end we want the athlete to improve, not only as the athlete, but as a person.”

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Senior Hockey

38

From the Barstool: Senior hockey playoffs loom

by Michael Mroziak Michael@wnyhockeyreport.com

“Playoffs? Don’t talk about playoffs! Are you kidding me?

Playoffs???” – Former pro football coach Jim Mora. *** For most of the local senior hockey leagues, we’re still within the regular season. However, there are a few leagues where the postseason has either begun or is about to start. And so, with this month’s column we go into what we’ll call a pre-postseason mode.

As we always ask, if you’re a league manager who has some interesting news from your league or wish to advise teams and players about upcoming seasons or tournaments, let us help you get the word out. Send your items to info@wnyhockeyreport.com.

OTHLEA – PLAYOFFS RETURN AND THE ICE DOME COMETH Playoffs for this league at the outdoor rink in East Aurora got underway in mid February. All teams qualify for the Lord Manly Cup, but winners move on and losers get “friendlys.” Teams eliminated from the playoffs finish out with games against others that were also eliminated, so that everyone gets their equal share of games played.

Two teams shared space at the top of the standings, the Canadiens and Red Wings. The Red Wings, by virtue of goal differential, were the first-place finishers though they and the Canadiens shared similar 13-2 regular season records. They also both earned a first-round playoff bye.

The 2015 postseason also saw its first upset, as the Penguins knocked off the Canucks. As for other contenders, both of last year’s finalists, the league champion North Stars and runners-up Blackhawks, faced second-round challenges at press time from two much-improved teams. The North Stars were upset by the Rangers, a team which has twice before won the Cup but has also changed a few faces since their last championship in 2013. The Hawks, meanwhile, were lost to the Canadiens.

The Ducks and Jets matchup had the making of an entertaining game, with the Jets coming out on top.

The Penguins, following their first-round win, are facing the Red Wings at press time. This game might break the record for the coldest game played in OTHLEA history. *** The Cup final will be held in early March. Meantime, an OTHLEA-run weekend event, the Molson IceDome 4-on4 tournament, was scheduled to return Sunday, March 15. The IceDome tournament welcomes teams to play in a cross-ice competition. Teams put three skaters and a goalie on the ice with substitutes switching in and out.

The tournament will be divided into two divisions.

The Novice Division, which traditionally has featured mostly OTHLEA teams, will begin at 8 a.m. while the Open Division begins at 4 p.m. The latter is the more competitive division.

Players must be 21 years or older and this is sanctioned

by USA Hockey. Beverages courtesy of Certo Brothers Distributing and food courtesy of Redlinski Meats will be available to players, who in turn have historically set up their own tailgate-styled parties in the rink’s parking lot.

The IceDome tournament has, to folks connected with OTHLEA, become a festive end-of-season event.

To follow the league and to find out more about the Molson Ice Dome tournament, go to othlea.com and icedome4on4.com.

DWYER ARENA The regular season was winding down in late February, though playoff schedules were not readily available. Pot O Gold remained in first place in the nine-team league with a 14-2-1 record while Sharks With Lasers held second place with a 10-4-2 record.

You can follow along at http://dwyer.niagara.edu/ programs/senior-leagues.

HOLIDAY-LEISURE RINKS – MOTHL UNVEILS A NEW PLAYOFF FORMAT Regular season schedules were posted for various divisions through at least the end of February.

Playoff schedules were not yet posted but league officials say there will be a new playoff format this season. Instead of spreading playoffs over a course or two or three weeks, the Molson Old Tyme Hockey League at Holiday and Leisure Rinks were planning to hold what it calls the “Weekend of Champions,” an entire playoff tournament held the same weekend.

To learn more information, when it becomes available in the near future, visit http://molsonothl.stats. pointstreak.com.

THOMAS CREEK ICE ARENA The various leagues are still in their regular seasons through the end of March. In the meantime, information is already posted about spring leagues set to begin in April.

For more information, follow the adult hockey link at tcice.com.

CORNERSTONE ARENA The regular season of the Lockport arena’s inaugural adult league continues through late March. Meantime, organizers are already posting information for spring and summer leagues. For more information, email Hockey Director Tom Dockery at tdockery@ cornerstoneicearena.com.

GREATER CANANDAIGUA CIVIC CENTER The regular season for this small four-team adult league was set to end after the first weekend in March with playoff rounds beginning March 11.

League standings were not readily available.

WNYHockeyReport.com

BILL GRAY’S REGIONAL ICEPLEX The numerous divisions of the Iceplex Adult Hockey League (IAHL) are still in their regular seasons and will be through March. You can follow this league at www. theiahl.com.

PERFORMAX HOCKEY LEAGUE The various divisions in this large league are still in the midst of the regular season through March 8. Playoff matchups were not yet readily available.

You can follow along by logging on to performaxhockey. com, then following the link at the very top of the page to access the its Pointstreak sites. ***

HARBORCENTER – A PERSONAL THANK YOU Last month I shared my personal tale of being the fool who had to walk with his hockey bag several blocks through a sea of Buffalo Bandits fans leaving the lacrosse team’s home opener at First Niagara Center. I was en route to the HarborCenter for my senior league game and due to some street closings to accommodate pedestrians, I parked next to Coca-Cola Field and trekked up Washington Street with the bag and sticks.

I encouraged everyone to do a little homework, which I’ve since done. And, it has paid off.

I ran into the situation again of having a senior game on the same night something was going on at FNC. Only this time, it was a Sabres home game. And it was in the midst of the frigid subzero cold that gripped us in mid February.

I got to Washington Street very early into the second period and was thrilled to see Buffalo Police had taken down their road blocks, which I assumed would be set up again at the end of the Sabres game.

Getting through that was step one. Step two was hoping for a space inside the HarborCenter ramp. My saving grace was the little blue permit which was issued to us at the start of the season. It allowed me to get in and avoid being that fool with the bag again, only this time saving me from some seriously nasty cold.

The moral of the story: if you’re playing the HarborCenter and don’t know about those passes issued at the start of the season, ask your captain or ask the pro shop attendant for details.

Oh yes, and do a little homework and plan accordingly if there’s a congestion of events downtown that night.

As for the HC staff, my sincerest thank you. If I was unfair with any observations last month, I hope I can make up for that here and say “great job.”

As for the playoffs, there’s about a month left of regular season play before we get into the postseason. If you’re curious about the leagues, the stats and standing are available online. Go to harborcenter.com, follow the “Rinks” link and then click on the “Seneca HAHL” link.

NOTES OF DISCLOSURE: The Old Tyme Hockey League of East Aurora (OTHLEA) and Old Tyme Hockey League based at Holiday & Leisure Rinks are either operated or sponsored by the same ownership which publishes this edition.

Additionally, the columnist is a participant in leagues within OTHLEA and HarborCenter.

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