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Western New York Hockey Report
Managing Partner Ian C. Woods Vice President, Business Development Ned McDonnell Publisher Steve Manson Managing Editor & Senior Correspondent Randy Schultz Designer & Photographer Janet Schultz Columnists Warren Kozireski Janet Schultz Dave Reichert Mike Mroziak Contributing Writers James Fink Mike Haim Dave Ricci Michael Repertorio WESTERN NEW YORK HOCKEY REPORT No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical including photocopy and facsimile, without permission in writing from the publisher. WESTERN NEW YORK HOCKEY REPORT is an equal opportunity employer. Contents 2012 Western New York Hockey Report. All rights reserved. THE WESTERN NEW YORK HOCKEY REPORT is published monthly, for $15 one year or $25 two years by Western New York Hockey Report, P.O. Box 302, East Aurora, N.Y. 14052 Pending Periodical Postage Paid at Orchard Park and Additional Offices. Postmaster: send address changes to Western New York Hockey Report, P.O. Box 302, East Aurora, N.Y. 14052
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Local Hockey Club Shaves Ice and Heads! (Submitted by the Buffalo Regals)
P.O.Box 302 East Aurora, NY 14052 (716) 909-2961 wnyhockey@ verizon.net
March 2012
T
he Buffalo Regals did more than shave some ice this past weekend, they shaved their heads. Twenty hockey club boys shaved their heads in support and honor of children fighting cancer. The kids cleverly called themselves the “Top Shelf Shavers” and the funds they raised for this momentous act was donated to Camp Good Days, a WNY nonprofit that serves the needs of children with cancer. “These boys started with a fundraising goal of $5,000. They surpassed that in just over a month and are now on the verge of tripling it!” said Lisa Donato, regional director of Camp Good Days. “We are beyond grateful to the enthusiasm, generosity, support and courage these boys have shown us.” What started out as nine children planning to go bald, turned into 20 by the time the Sunday morning event was over. Which just goes to show you what a little bit of encouragement and support from your teammates will do. Some moms were calling it “good” peer pressure! Elizabeth McCarthy, who has two sons playing hockey for the Regals, created and organized the event,. “It is so great to see youth hockey players of WNY show their support for the children of Camp Good Days. Whether they are on or off the ice, they stand as one, helping to bring smiles to some very deserving children,” she continued. The consensus in the locker rooms, ‘We have a choice to go bald, kids with cancer don’t.’ You can show your support of this hockey club and the courage and maturity it took to brave the shave by donating online by going to www.events.campgooddays.com/TopShelfShavers (or short URL: Bit.ly/TopShelfShavers). Funds will be accepted through the end of March, 2012. Camp Good Days and Special Times is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization dedicated to improving the quality of life for children, adults and families whose lives have been touched by cancer. For more information about any of the programs or services, to learn about volunteer opportunities or to make a tax-deductible donation, please call 716-206-0709 or visit www.campgooddays.org*
Tryout Dates and Times are subject to change! Please contact individual organization with questions!
Call 716-909-2961 for Advertising Opportunities
Western New York Hockey Report
March 2012
Page 4
Molson Ice Dome Winners By Michael Mroziak
T
hink of it like an adult pond hockey tournament, but contained within a third of an ice rink. Include a lot of speed, plenty of shots on goal, back and forth breaks and, yes, some rough and tumble play in this smaller space. That’s the Molson IceDome 4-on-4 tournament, which crowned three champions over two days at the Time Warner Classic Rink in East Aurora. The Molson IceDome tournament is similar to other local pond hockey events in terms of game format: two 15-minute halves, running clock, and possession changes for penalties instead of power plays. This event, however, uses full-sized nets instead of the traditional six-inch tall goals utilized in other tournaments. For the goalies standing in front of these nets, an event such as the Molson IceDome can feel like a non-stop drill, testing the puckstoppers at literally any moment. Some games ended in one-sided blowouts but the title games included an open division championship that needed to be settled in sudden death overtime. That happened on the night of Friday, March 10, when the Tuscany on Main Oilers scored in the extra session to edge out Certo Brothers in a back-and-forth contest. The following day saw tournament play for two divisions: the Sunday Open Division and the “OTHLEA & Friends” division. The latter was named for teams affiliated with the Old Tyme Hockey League of East Aurora (which also operates the Molson IceDome tournament) along with outside teams deemed to be of a similar level. In the Sunday open Division, the Icemen defeated the Indians in what turned out to be a more intense and often chippy contest. Happening on the other end of the rink in the OTHLEA & Friends division, a team from the Niagara Falls Air Base defeated OTHLEA members Cobber’s North Stars. Along with the hockey, the beer was flowing, as teams toasted a weekend that included nice weather and perhaps some of the last hockey they’ll play on the Time Warner rink before it closes for the spring and summer months. *
Bud Bakewell Tryouts for 2012-2013 All Tryouts Held at Riverside Ice Rink/Bud Bakewell Ice Rink 2607 Niagara Street, Buffalo, NY 14207
April 2nd
5-6pm Pee Wee Mixed Tier 3 6-7pm 7-8pm 8-9pm 9-11pm
April 3rd
5-6pm 6-7pm 7-8pm 8-9pm 9-11pm
Coach Carl Miller 716-491-7147 Bantam Minor Tier 2 Coach Jay Tagliarino 716-380-9045 Midget 15U Tier 2 Coach Bill Cline 716-465-4116/ Mark Major 716-812-8564 Midget 18U NTB Team Di Giacomo 716-857-0330 Midget 18 U TB and 18U TB Coach Buddy 18U NTB team same Blocho, Mgr. Ron Downen time 716-998-2869 18U NTB Team Coach Jeff Swan 716-440-5717 Squirt MOHL Coach Mark Hager 716-882-4309 or email hdoo27@msn.com Pee Wee Mixed Tier 3 Bantam Minor Tier 2 Midget 16 U NTB Tier 2 Coach Ronnie Wong, 480-3540 Midget 18 U TB and 18U TB Coach Buddy 18U NTB team same Blocho, Mgr. Ron Downen time 716-998-2869 18U NTB Team Coach Jeff Swan 716-440-5717
Questions Please Call: Allen Shubbuck @ 716-913-1521 or email: budbakewellhockey@roadrunner.com
*Releases are needed from previous organizations!
April 4th
April 5th
April 6th
5-6pm 6-7pm 7-8pm 8-9pm 9-11pm
Pee Wee Tier 3 Bantam Minor Tier 2 Midget 15 U Tier 2 Midget 18U Tier 2 Team Midget 18 U TB and 18U NTB team same time
5-6pm Squirt MOHL 6-7pm Midget 15 U Tier 2 7-8pm Midget 16U NTB Tier 2 8-9pm Midget 18 U NTB Team 9-10pm Midget 18 U NTB Team 10-11pm Midget 18 U TB Team 6 pm
Di Giacomo 18U TB Coach Buddy Blocho, Mgr. Ron Downen 716-998-2869 18U NTB Team Coach Jeff Swan 716-440-5717
Coach TBA Di Giacomo Swan Blocho
Mite Mixed Travel (full ice)
7-9pm Midget MOHL Tryout Costs: $10 for each on-ice session.
Coach Tony Johnson 462-1907 Coach John Garey 603-6300
WANTED Bud Bakewell Hockey is Looking for:Applications for Squirt Travel Tier 2 Coach to create a new squirt travel team, Novice/Learn to Skate Coaches and a Coordinator for 2012/2013 season. Interested parties should contact Allen Shubbuck for applications or questions!
K
Western New York Hockey Report
March 2012
evin Sylvester has shown his versatility as a member of the Buffalo Sabres broadcast team. His role as a part-time play-by-play announcer for the team has expanded significantly this season. On the nights that he is not calling the action on the ice, he continues to serve as the host for pre- and post-game shows on MSG Network’s Sabres’ broadcasts. His position as host of the telecast is one he has held since the 2005-2006 season. Sylvester’s career with the Sabres actually began behind the scenes rather than behind the microphone. “I’m in my seventh season with the team,” recalled Sylvester. “I started with the Sabres in April of 2005 during the lockout. Before that lockout season there was some informal discussion about becoming a television host. I was in between work and was hired. I had a lot of connections with college sports. They had a need to help with college sports at the arena. I was originally hired as the Director of Amateur Athletics to work with the NCAA and the local colleges. The understanding was that once the lockout was over I would also become the television host.” Sylvester moves back and forth from host to game announcer, filling in for legendary Sabres’ voice Rick Jeanneret when he is on vacation. “I enjoy both roles immensely, but it is difficult especially going from calling play-by-play back to hosting,” explained Sylvester. “They are two completely different jobs and roles.” “When I’m hosting, the lead up to the game is intense and it goes by quick, because of all the prep you put into that half-hour pregame show. Then the game starts and there’s time to catch your breath.” “Where as with play-by-play, I can’t wait for the game to begin. It’s intense for those two and a half hours with a little breather during the intermissions. That’s how the roles differ.” “I appreciate and I’m thrilled with the opportunity to fill in for Rick and call the play-by-play. I’ve done it in increments over the past four years, since he’s started taking his vacations. This year is the most I’ve done with a twenty-three game schedule.” With his play-by-play role expanding, Kevin is now calling consecutive games rather than just scattered individual contests throughout the season. The repetition of being the game announcer for periods of time has changed his perspective. “I think it’s changed my focus a bit on the game itself rather than the way I see each game when I’m hosting,” said Sylvester. “I feel a greater responsibility to the fans, there is pressure there, you’re filling in for Rick Jeanneret.” “It’s a very difficult job to do and the challenge is to get things right and convey it in an accurate, articulate and entertaining way.” “I really enjoy those stints where you can get into it and go game-to-game, continued Sylvester. “It’s nice to get into the rhythm of going from night to night.” “I enjoy working with Danny Gare and Brian Duff. I think we’ve got a nice chemistry going. I think the fact that twenty-two of our twenty-three games are on the road has helped. I think the two long road trips, the one in January to the Midwest and the one to the west coast have let us get to know each other better.” “Brian and I have a lot of similar experiences in broadcasting, coming up through radio and finding our way to television.” “I’ve known Danny over the years from being Danny Gare the hockey player and working with organization. I got to know him better when he filled in for Mike Robitaille after Mike’s accident a few years ago.” Danny is a great guy, he’s very generous to work with and very encourag-
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ing. He’s done it through the years and he’s a great resource for me.” Having more nights as a play-by-play man this season has helped Sylvester develop in the role and increase his confidence. “Like any player would tell you, they are better when they play with confidence and the only way you get confidence is through positive experience. I feel that I’m building that confidence by having positive experience.” When I announced my first game in Phoenix four years ago and had to interview Wayne Gretzky before the game, I had my nerves going through enough there. I can definitely tell you I’m more confident today than I certainly was back then.” The support of team management has helped Sylvester make the most of the opportunity. “There were several guys that previous ownership tried out and had fill in for Rick,” reflected Sylvester. “I’m just thrilled that Larry Quinn and Dan DiPofi showed some faith in me and believed in me; and the same with current ownership. They listened and put my tape up against everyone else’s and said we’re going to give this guy a shot, we like him. I gained confidence from that too.” In assuming the role Sylvester has the difficult task of pinch hitting for one of the most beloved broadcasters in Buffalo. As time has gone on, he has been able to move beyond that aspect of the assignment and just be himself. “I think I went through that in the previous seasons when I filled in,” said Sylvester. “I realize that not everybody is going to like my call, particularly when compared to Rick. But I think most people are respectful of it.” “I don’t pay attention to it because I’m a positive person and I like to stick with the positive things in life. If someone doesn’t like the way I call a game, I can’t change By Dave Reichert that for that person. That’s their choice.” “There are probably people who don’t like how I host a show, I’m OK with that, I get that. It’s like going to a movie. Not everybody is going to like the movie they went to see, that is what it is.” “I think the greater challenge for me is to be accurate, be entertaining and continue to build and improve in my call. That’s what my goal has been.” Many fans watching and listening have a strong connection to the work and the sound of Rick Jeanneret; but for Sylvester, it remains about doing the best job that he can. “I’m here to call the Buffalo Sabres game,” said Sylvester. “I’m here to announce the hockey game the best way I know how. I inject some of my personality into it. I’m doing that more now than perhaps at the beginning of the season.” “I’ve looked to establish a base and then build from there. If I look at it as I’m filling in for Rick, I would feel like I had to be like him. I don’t look at it that way nor should I try to be like him.” Like many people in Buffalo, Sylvester is a fan of Rick Jeanneret. “Everybody likes Rick including me,” confirmed Sylvester. “He’s one of a kind, he’s a gem and we’re lucky to have him and I hope he continues on for as long as he wants to and is able to.” Some wonder why Sylvester would put himself in the position of substituting for Jeanneret, but clearly he enjoys calling a National Hockey League Game. “There are plenty of people who have asked ‘Why would you want to do that’? The comment is always, you never want to be the guy who replaces a legend.” “My response is, A: I’m not replacing him, no one can replace him. B: someone has to do it, and C: who knows I might just be good. I look at a guy like John Murphy and what he’s been able to do on Buffalo Bills radio stepping in for Van (Miller) when he retired and Murph does a great job. There are plenty of people, who certainly can’t do it, but Rick is one of a kind and most people recognize that, understand and appreciate that.” Continued on page 6
Kevin Sylvester Is Where He Wants To Be
Western New York Hockey Report Continued from page 5
While Sylvester is a broadcaster for the Buffalo Sabres, he also calls the game as someone who appreciates well played hockey. “I’m not there to be a cheerleader, but I’m also the Buffalo Sabres announcer for
those games,” said Sylvester. “Is the ice going to tilt in Buffalo’s favor? Sure.” “I think any broadcaster in the league will tell you that, except for the guys who are doing the national stuff, like Doc (Mike) Emrick and Dave Strader; their job is to split it down the middle. “ “But when you work for a team, the goal calls for your team are going to have a little bit more umph to them than the ones for the other team. That being said, if the opposing team makes a great play, I think as a hockey fan, as an observer, I need to convey that it was an exciting or amazing play.” Jeanneret is known for catchphrases that Sabres’ fans have grown to love. Sylvester sees these phrases as uniquely Rick’s. “Rick has this unbelievable ability to pick the right words when a goal is scored,” explained Sylvester. “For example, the top shelf call. I can’t do top shelf where mama hides the cookies, that’s his thing and fans expect that. I need to be different, so I don’t want to emulate his calls. That’s not fair to him, not fair to me and it’s not fair to the fans. I’m there to be me, in my style and I’ll start to inject more of that in goal calls as we go along and hopefully go along here for years to come.” Looking to the future, Sylvester would love to be the full time voice of the Sabres at some point down the road, but doesn’t feel any sense of urgency in that regard. “I wouldn’t be doing it now, if I didn’t want to do it on a full time basis. I want to be a full time play by play guy, I want to be in Buffalo, but I’m in no hurry for Rick to retire.” “I’m a Rick Jeanneret fan and I hope the fact that he’s taking his time off this season and as he has in the past; that it reenergizes him and keeps him fresh and allows him to continue. It’s his decision for when he wants to retire and his alone. He’s still great and I see him doing it for years. He deserves to make the call when the Sabres win the Stanley Cup and hopefully that happens here soon.” For now, Sylvester is looking at his responsibilities for the remainder of this season alone and not concerning himself with next season or beyond. “Nothing has been promised to me or discussed beyond this season and that’s OK,” concluded Sylvester. “Whether it happens or not, I couldn’t ask for a better opportunity than I’ve been
March 2012
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given this year.” “If they want me to continue that’s fantastic. If they don’t, I can’t say they didn’t give me a shot.”*
St. Francis Youth Hockey Looks to Grow
By Michael Mroziak
A
s if St. Francis High School’s hockey program wasn’t a big program in its own right, a related youth hockey program that formed a few seasons ago is also looking to grow. If the Red Raiders Youth Hockey Association has its way, there could be youth players as young as 11 skating under the program in the next season or two. “Over the past five Midget seasons the Red Raider Youth Hockey Association has fielded 16u and 18u teams both at the major and AA levels depending on the number of players,” said Scott Diebold, Director of Player Development, Assessment, & Advancement for RRYHA (and also an assistant coach for St. Francis High School’s prep team). “For the last two seasons we have been involved in and have offered an initiation or beginner program. As this organization continues to grow, expanding into the younger AAA TB full seasons, at every age group, has always been a goal of ours. We hope to attract as many young skilled hockey players as possible.” Although plans have not yet been finalized, Red Raiders officials tell Western New York Hockey Report that their hopes are to introduce 14u and 12u squads in the near future, perhaps next season or possibly beginning in 2013-14. “This is the next step into offering and building a competitive hockey program that players and their families can grow with at the highest level,” Diebold said.*
Cazenovia Park Hockey Association 2012-2013
Travel Tryout Schedule
Division COACH Birth Year Date and Time
Pee Wee Minor Dan Robinson 2001
PeeWee Major Chris Usiak 2000
Bantam Minor Jerry Sullivan 1999
Bantam Major Pat McDonald 1998
Bantam Tier III Tim Creighton 1998/1999
Midget 16U NTB Jim Banko 1996/1997
Midget 16U TB Bill Waskielewicz 1996/1997
Midget 18U TB Jim Blake 1994-1995
Tues.4/3 6:00-6:50
Mon. 4/2 5:00-5:50
Tues.4/3 8:00-8:50
Mon 4/2 6:00-6:50
Wed.4/4 8:00-9:20
Wed.4/4 7:00-7:50
Mon.4/2 7:00-8:50
Mon. 4/2 8:30-9:30
Wed.4/4 5:00-5:50
Tues.4/3 5:00-5:50
Wed.4/4 6:00-6:50
Tues.4/3 7:00-7:50
Thurs.4/5 8:00-8:50
Thurs.4/5 7:00-7:50
Tues.4/3 9;00-9:50
Tues.4/3 10:00-10:50
All Cazenovia Park Hockey Association tryouts are $10.00. All players from other organizations must have a 2011-2012 release and a copy of their Birth Certificate. All players should attend all tryouts in their division. Other teams may be formed as needed. Please visit our website www.cazhockey.com for updates as well as for on-line registration for our Mite and MOHL programs. For more information contact Meg Gifford at cazhockey@live.com.
Western New York Hockey Report
March 2012
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Boys Minor and Tier III State Tournament Bound Teams We will compete in the WNYAHL for the 2012-2013 Season
www.niagaracountycoyotes.com
*** Open Tryouts ***
Niagara County Coyotes
Pee Wee Tier III TB - Coach: Tom Giordano No Politics Pee Wee Tier III - Coach: Michael Finnegan Just Hockey! Monday, 4/2/12 – 5:30-7:00 pm – Hyde Park Tuesday, 4/3/12 – 5:30-:7:00 pm – Hyde Park Wednesday, 4/4/12 – 5:30-7:00 pm – Hyde Park Any questions email- Tgiordano153@yahoo.com Cell -716-866-5285 Any questions email- nccoyotes_mfinnegan@yahoo.com Home -716-285-2162
*Robbie Glantz summer power skating skills clinic *Year round opportunities to train *Roller Hockey in summer *Dry-land summer activities *Clinicians and Summer Camps *Tournaments* *Fun Family Atmosphere *Team Concept *Quality ice time per player* And More!
Bantam Minor - Coach: Todd Boci Bantam Tier III TB - Coach: Kevin Smith Monday, 4/2/12 – 7:00-8:30 pm – Hyde Park Tuesday, 4/3/12 –7:00-8:30 pm – Hyde Park Wednesday, 4/4/12 – 7:00-8:30 pm – Hyde Park Any questions email Todd tcb1026@yahoo.com- Cell -716-628-1714 Any questions email Kevin the4smittys@yahoo.com- Cell -716-907-9424 Please bring a copy of Player’s Release and Birth Certificate Tryout Fee $10.00 per session A $300 non-refundable team deposit will be due at time of signing For the latest news and updates on the Coyotes please check out our website
www.niagaracountycoyotes.com
Western New York Hockey Report
March 2012
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Western New York Hockey Report
March 2012
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Western New York Hockey Report
March 2012
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Buffalo Stars Operating A Full Season U16 Team
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Submitted by the Buffalo Stars Organization
he Buffalo Stars Juniors will operate a Full Season U16 team for the 2012-2013 season that will participate in the National Junior Prospects Hockey League. The team will be open to Tier 1 caliber players in the 1996 and 1997 birth year. The National Junior Prospects Hockey League is a showcase hockey league which was created and designed by coaches in order to develop and promote hockey players who are committed to enhancing their skills in preparation for the next level of hockey. The NJPHL will showcase these players on their member teams at five showcase events across the United States in front of all levels of Prep School, Junior A, and NCAA Collegiate hockey programs. The NJPHL consists of Tier 1 teams in 3 divisions: U18, U16, and U14 with an area that extends from Tampa, Fl to Wenatchee, WA to Boston, MA and everywhere in between. The Buffalo Stars in our inaugural year will participate in the U16 Division. This past season the U16 division consisted of the following teams: Ft Wayne Komets; Lake Erie Warriors; Naperville Sabres; Phoenix Firebirds; Pittsburgh Junior Penguins; Pittsburgh Predators; Pittsburgh Viper Stars; PK Warriors; Richmond Generals; Tampa Bay Lightning and Wenatchee Junior Wild. In addition to the league schedule, the Stars U16 will participate in 3-4 additional Midget Showcase events on the East Coast and an additional 20-24 home and home games with league and non league teams. The Stars anticipate a schedule of 54-60 games. “The Buffalo Stars U16 team will be a feeder for our Buffalo Stars
Junior Program. This will be an additional full season opportunity for our 15-16 year old player who wishes to pursue hockey outside of the established split-season culture that dominates the WNY area” said Buffalo Stars President Pete Preteroti. “The team will operate in conjunction with our Junior teams and will operate just like the Junior teams do”. The team will begin an intense 3 week Training Camp in August at Holiday Twin Rinks. Camp will conclude with a weekend of training at the Olympic Training Center in Lake Placid, NY. The U16 team will mirror the Buffalo Stars Junior Training Camp and will be involved in some joint training sessions with them. The Buffalo Stars will conduct tryouts for this team at Holiday Twin Rinks on: Monday, April 2nd: 9:15-10:45pm Tuesday, April 3rd: 9:15-10:15pm The Buffalo Stars will also conduct preliminary Junior Tryouts during these times. Additional details will be announced over the next 10 days. For more information about the Buffalo Stars contact Pete Preteroti at 716-685-1122 or SportsNiag@aol.com or call Mike Flatley at 716480-9209 or goalie1039@roadrunner.com Visit the Buffalo Stars on line at: www.buffalostars.com*
Western New York Hockey Report R.I.T. The Tigers won the tiebreaker of a three-way tie for third place with Mercyhurst and Holy Cross to earn a first round playoff bye. They survived a quarterfinal series with sixth seed Bentley winning the final two games after dropping the first for their first loss at home to a conference opponent all season. The Tigers joined top seed Air Force, second seed Niagara and fourth seed Mercyhurst in the final four held at Rochester’s Blue Cross Arena in mid-March. RIT limped into the postseason after finishing February under .500 for the first time as a Division I program with a 2-3-3 record. Senior forward Cameron Burt netted two points in the final home regular season game to tie the school record for points in a career with 132 points. He broke the mark held by Simon Lambert (2005-08) with an assist in game one of the playoff quarterfinals. Senior goaltender Shane Madolora finished the regular season fifth in the country in goals against (1.94) and sixth in save percentage (.931).
March 2012
NIAGARA The Purple Eagles finished the regular season on a five game unbeaten streak to secure second place in the Atlantic Conference and a first round bye for the playoffs. They swept seventh seed Robert Morris at home in the quarterfinals to earn a spot in the Atlantic Hockey Final Four with Air Force, RIT and Mercyhurst.
COLLEGE REPORT By Warren Kozireski
After their win and tie against RIT to conclude the regular season, Niagara continued their unblemished record against RIT in the Division I era with a record of 9-0-5. Senior goaltender Chris Noonan made 51 saves in the season finale launching him into the top spot in the nation in save percentage (.941) and fourth in goals against (1.71). Sophomore forward Ryan Murphy scored seven goals and four assists in the month of February including a hat trick against RIT. He came into
Page 11 the month with season totals of two goals and three assists. CANISIUS The Golden Griffins finished the regular season in ninth place, but lost a best-of-three pre-quarter final playoff series at UConn ending their season. Senior goaltender Dan Morrison made 27 saves on Senior Night raising his career total to 2,787 stops to set a new school record. He surpassed the previous standard of 2,771, set by Bryan Worosz from 2001 to 2005. Seniors Scott Moser (Tonawanda) and Morrison completed their college careers. BUFFALO STATE Taylor McGraw (North Lawrence) scored the game-winner as the Bengals won the second postseason game in the program’s history against Potsdam in the first round before falling to Plattsburgh in triple overtime during the semi-finals. Their only other postseason win came in 2002 versus Cortland. The first round victory also set a new school mark for wins in a season with 13. Sophomore goaltender Kevin Carr was named to the Second Team and junior forward Drew Klin the Third Team on the SUNYAC All-Conference squad. Continued on Page 13
Sabres Alumni Hold Charity Game
O
n April 1 2012 the Buffalo Sabres Alumni hockey team will play a charity fundraiser game at the Buffalo State Ice Arena against Daddio’s Pizza. Rob Ray will headline the Sabres Alumni roster while the Daddio’s pizza team will feature several prominent local men’s league players. The beneficiary of this fundraiser is Paradise House, a halfway house for women recovering from substance abuse. Tickets are $7 at the door or $5 presale. To purchase presale tickets, contact the Reverand Ann Paris, executive Director of Paradise House, at 716-829-9213. This event would not take place without the charitable contributions of our sponsors; Daddio’s Pizza, Losi & Gangi Workers Comp Attorneys and Bugbusters.*
Western New York Hockey Report
March 2012
Buffalo Junior Sabres: Season in Review
By Michael Mroziak
T
he Buffalo Junior Sabres did something in the 2011-12 season that had not been achieved in three seasons: make the playoffs. They also accomplished something that the franchise hadn’t done since 2003, when it was known as the Buffalo Lightning: win a postseason series. Although the team’s postseason hopes came to a crashing halt, losing its second round series against the Oakville Blades in five games including a 9-0 thumping in Game Five, this year’s Junior “A” squad raised a lot of eyebrows around the Ontario Junior Hockey League, especially early in the season when it was arguably the biggest surprise in the OJHL with an early climb into first place in the league’s West Division. The team not only surprised a few peers across the border, they more importantly also impressed some college coaches. This year’s team produced three verbal commitments to NCAA Division I schools, all of which are set to begin with academic year 2013-14. Early in the season, forward Andrew Poturalski (Amherst, NY) gave his verbal to the University of New Hampshire. Later in the fall, Josh Kielich (Orchard Park, NY) announced his plan to stay home and enroll at Canisius College. Just before the playoffs began in early February, forward David Seward (Williamsville, NY) gave his verbal commitment to Princeton University. Meanwhile, defenseman Dennis Playfair confirmed his enrollment at SUNY Geneseo beginning this fall. Other college decisions among Jr. Sabres players were not yet firmed up as of early March. With three players not planning to enroll in their respective colleges until a final year of junior, the challenge for new Jr. Sabres head coach Michael Peca is whether he can keep them for next season. Late in the regular season, Poturalski was loaned to Cedar Rapids of the USHL for a two-game stint, during which he scored two goals and one assist. He’s had a taste of the top level of American junior hockey and proven he can play in it, so indeed the temptation to “go west, young man” may be there. Kielich, who scored 20 goals and 20 assists (in 48 games) to finish second overall on the team in regular season scoring, seems more likely to stay, as suggested by Jr. Sabres game webcasts. Leading the team in scoring this regular season was Grand Island’s Shane Bennett, who finished the regular season with 27 goals and 28 assists in 49 games. Bennett combined speed with a powerful shot and, more importantly for the team, gave them offensive firepower when then-leading scorer Poturalski went down hurt. During the playoffs, Ryan Schmelzer (East Amherst) led all Jr. Sabres with four goals and seven assists in eight games. Team captain Mark Arnone ranked second with four goals and four assists. Schmelzer’s performances included a two-goal game in the second of Buffalo’s eventual three-game first-round sweep of Hamilton, and a three point game in Game Four of the team’s second round series against Oakville. In the latter case, Schmelzer’s leadership helped the Jr. Sabres avoid getting swept on home ice. Guarding the net for most of the season and all of the playoffs was Parker Gahagen. The former Williamsville North standout began the year seemingly a little shaky from inexperience at the junior level but soon emerged as the team’s go-to goalie. He recorded 21 wins during the regular season
including two shutouts. He also recorded a shutout among his four wins in the postseason. The end of the regular season also marks the official beginning of the Michael Peca coaching era. Hired as the Jr. Sabres’ general manager last August, Peca was announced as the future head coach when the team announced Grant Ledyard’s departure in January. Rather than have Peca move right into the coaching position, the team promoted assistant coach Russ Certo to the interim head coaching position. Peca, who did assist with practices, officially takes the reins beginning with spring tryouts. Junior Hockey News: Blades and Ironmen seasons end
Page 12 Continued from Page 12 FREDONIA The Blue Devils defeated Geneseo in the first round of the SUNYAC playoffs before falling to topranked Oswego in the semi-finals ending their season. Forward Jared Wynia was selected as the SUNYAC Rookie of the Year. Wynia is the third Blue Devil to earn the honor and the first since Eric Preston in 1993-94. The other Fredonia rookie was Paul Kwiatkowski (1988-89). Wynia has played in 19 games this season and ranks fifth on the team with 15 points on nine goals and six assists. Senior forward Bryan Ross was a First Team AllSUNYAC selection.
T
GENESEO A playoff first round loss to Fredonia finished the he Buffalo Blades’ first campaign as an campaign for the Knights. independently run junior franchise, after many years under the Wheatfield roof, ended Senior defenseman Danny Scagnelli (College Point) was a First Team All-SUNYAC pick and 2010disappointingly as the team mustered only eight 11 Rookie of the Year and leading scorer Zachary Vit wins during the regular season to finish at the bottom of the Greater Ontario Junior Hockey League’s was Third Team. Golden Horseshoe Division. Under the playoff format, every team in the BROCKPORT division made the postseason but given the team’s The team missed a playoff berth for the second standing during the regular season it was highly consecutive season when they lost to Morrisville in expected they’d be out of the playoff hunt in little the final minute in the final game of the regular seatime. son. It was indeed a “four-gone” conclusion, as the Senior forward James Cody has been selected as team was eliminated in four straight games by the the 2012 SUNYAC Player of the Year becoming the division leading St. Catharines Falcons. Former first player in the history of Brockport hockey to earn Blade Andy Sturtz, who was traded to the Falcons the honor. by the Blades mid-season, recorded one goal and seven assists in that four game series. Cody was named to the first-team All-SUNYAC Ironically, Sturtz remained the Blades’ leading in 2012, just the third Golden Eagle to earn the honscorer at the end of the regular season, even after ors and third to be named to multiple All-SUNYAC he’d been dealt across the border. In 27 games, teams (third-team in 2010-2011). The senior finished he recorded 18 goals and 24 assists before tallying the 2011-2012 season with 34 points (19 goals, 15 asone goal and five assists in 12 appearances for the sists). His 19 goals led the SUNYAC conference and Falcons. The most productive Blade still with Buffalo at the end of the season was Brian Osieja, who his 34 points were fifth-most in the league. Cody ranks sixth in school history in career points recorded 16 goals and 24 assists (40 points) in 50 with 116, is tied for fourth on the all-time goals list games, two points behind Sturtz’s Buffalo total. with 60 and his 19 goals this season are tied for the In goal, Cory Sorrento appeared in 35 games and recorded four wins. Ian Shorthouse also regis- eighth-most in a single season in school history. tered four wins in his 19 appearances. Senior forward Ian Finnerty and sophomore defenseman Mike Hayward were named to the SU***** NYAC Second Team marking the first time the school The Jamestown Ironmen also finished at the has had three players with postseason conference bottom of their division, ranking fifth in the North honors.* American Hockey League’s North Division and missing out on the postseason party. In 51 games, the Ironmen won 17 times and lost 29 games as well as four more in overtime. The Jamestown Savings Bank Ice Arena offered mixed blessings for the Ironmen, who finBy Michael Mroziak ished with a .500 home record, winning 13 games and losing 13, as well as four overtime losses. The road was absolutely unfriendly to Jamestown, with t. Francis High School’s varsity prep level only four wins away during the season. hockey squad, one of the school’s five teams, Jeff McFarland led all Ironmen in scoring completed its 2011-12 season with an apwith 21 goals and 16 assists in 48 games. Ranking pearance at the Culver Academies Tournament in second was Anthony Coles, who recorded 16 goals Culver, Indiana. and 19 assists in 51 games. St. Francis finished in second, losing the champion Steve Frangione was the only Western New ship game to PEAC School of Toronto, 6-2. Along York native on the Ironmen. The Jamestown the way, though, the Western New York entry took resident and defenseman did score one goal during out some formidable competition, including one of 26 games for a roster that changed frequently, with just as many people off the roster than on it over the top ten ranked junior teams in the United States. the course of the season, as per the team’s official That nationally renowned squad was the St. website.* Louis Jr. Blues, which was ranked seventh overall in the U.S. heading into the tournament. St. Francis defeated them 3-1.
St. Francis Takes 2nd at Culver Academy
S
Western New York Hockey Report
March 2012
Updated Hockey News at: www.wnyhockeyreport.com
Page 13
Western New York Hockey Report
March 2012
Page 14
TONAWANDA LIGHTNING
2012 -2013 TRYOUT SCHEDULE
2 0 1 2
Pee Wee Minor (01) April 2 8:10pm April 3 7:00pm
HC: Joe Aronica Hyde Park Hyde Park
Pee Wee Major (00) (TB) April 2 8:30pm April 3 8:00pm
HC: Rich Glica Hyde Park Hyde Park
Bantam Minor (99) April 2, 3 6:00pm April 4 (if necessary) 7:00pm
HC: Don Pray Hyde Park Hyde Park
Bantam Major (98) (TB) HC: Darryl McLaughlin April 2 9:10pm Hyde Park April 3 8:30pm Hyde Park Midget 15u (97) April 2 7:00pm April 3 9:00pm April 4 (if necessary) 5:00pm
HC: Tim Hennessey Hyde Park Hyde Park Hyde Park
Midget 16u (96-97) (TB) April 2 7:00pm April 3 9:30pm April 4 (if necessary)6:00pm
HC: Ray Tortorice Hyde Park Hyde Park Hyde Park
MARCHANT’S MESSAGE... I started this hockey school thirteen years ago to teach the basic fundamental skills of ice hockey while instilling individual qualities such as Perseverance, Responsibility, Intensity, Determination and Enthusiasm which when combined equals PRIDE. Through this great game of hockey I have realized the rewards of perseverance and hard work. While growing up in the Buffalo, NY area, I played ten years for the Amherst Youth Hockey Association, one season with the Niagara Scenics and two years at Clarkson University. This led to becoming a member of the 1994 United States Olympic Team in Lillehammer, Norway. Drafted by the New York Rangers in 1993 and then traded to the Edmonton Oilers Hockey Club, I spent my first ten seasons in Edmonton, Alberta, playing for the Oilers followed by one season in Columbus, Ohio playing for the Blue Jackets. My most recent seasons have been spent in Anaheim, California as a member of the Anaheim Ducks. In June, after a seventeen year career, I retired as an active player. At that time I was named Director of Player Development for the Anaheim Ducks where my duties and responsibilities are teaching and helping with the development of the young players in the Ducks organization.
I look forward to seeing you soon!
HC: Tom Diehl Hyde Park HC: Pete Gallivan N. Buffalo (Tacoma) N. Buffalo (Tacoma)
• NON-RESIDENTS WELCOME TO ATTEND TRYOUT SESSIONS! • RELEASE FORM REQUIRED FOR NONTONAWANDA LIGHTNING PLAYERS • COST IS $15.00 WHICH COVERS ALL SESSIONS • PLEASE BRING COPY OF BIRTH CERTIFICATE (FOR VIEWING ONLY) • $200.00 NON-REFUNDABLE DEPOSIT DUE AT PLAYER SIGNING • ALL TEAMS WITH (TB) ARE PROJECTED STATE BOUND STATUS • FOR QUESTIONS: CONTACT TOM DIEHL #8602322 OR TIM GRIFFITH #877-8511 • GIRLS QUESTIONS: CONTACT PETE GALLIVAN psgallivan@roadrunner.com • VISIT OUR WEBSITE: http://www.tonawandalightning.org FOR ANY UPDATES
2 0 1 3
The 14th Annual Todd Marchant Hockey School HOCKEY CAMP FEES
Fee for one-week session is $365. A deposit of $100 is required to guarantee enrollment, however, positions are filled on a first come basis. Deposit is due May 7, 2012. Final Payment due by June 18, 2012. Enrollment includes: • Sixteen (16) Hours On-Ice • Instruction by Recognized Area Coaches • Organized Dryland Activities • On-Site Medical Trainer • Guest Speakers among Hockey’s Elite • Lunch Included • Todd Marchant Hockey School Jersey • Autographed Todd Marchant Photo • Goaltending Equipment Available AWARDS • Fastest Forward Skater • Fastest Backward Skater • Most Improved • Snow Ball • Sharp Shooter • Goaltender’s Shootout Winner
The second and equally important reason that I started this hockey school was to try to give something back to this community through charitable contributions. Through the combined efforts of my family, my senior coaching staff, my counselors and participants in the hockey school, we have been able to donate over $70,000 to local charities to help kids less fortunate achieve their goals. It is my hope that with your help and participation this year, we can continue to help make their dreams come true. I look forward to using my experience to help young athletes such as yourself learn how to achieve your goals. Join us this summer for a week of building hockey skills and having fun!
Midget 18u (94-95) (TB) April 2, 3 5:00pm Girls 14u/16u Tier II (96-99) April 6 7:00pm April 7 11:30am
ONE WEEK JULY 23 - 28, 2012
BOYS & GIRLS
Northtown Center, Amherst
(Associated with Amherst Youth Hockey)
Daily Schedule Arrive 8 a.m.; Depart: 4 p.m. Saturday:
Mites/Squirts/ Peewee’s/ Seniors 1997-99 (Bantam and Midget)
Final On-Ice Games & Awards Each day there will be drills with mini pucks and white pucks, as well as other props to help improve concentration. In addition, the daily scrimmage gives the goalies the opportunity to put their newly learned skills to the test. For fun, there are contests and a day of “goalie games”, culminating in the breakaway competition for “The Goalie of the Week” award. Our instructors have many years of coaching experience, as well as playing at the NCAA Div. III and NJCAA levels.
Available Positions Are On A First Come Basis! GOALTENDING PROGRAM We believe the basics of good goaltending never go out of style. Daily session will cover: * Stretching/Warm-ups * Screens * Stance * Deflections * Skating/Movement * Game Situations * Playing Angles * Mental Readiness * Breakaways
For Information: (716) 688-4301 www.marchanthockey.com
Western New York Hockey Report
March 2012
Page 15
Hamburg 2012 Travel Tryout The Hamburg Hawks organization is a proud member of the following organizations: USA Hockey, New York State Amateur Hockey Association, Western New York Amateur Hockey Association and Great Lakes Girls Hockey League. Located just 10 minutes south of Buffalo, Hamburg plays the highest level of competition at the Tier I elite level in WNY, Southern Ontario and across the country. Our Girls programs compete at the Tier II tournament bound level in WNY and Southern Ontario. Hamburg offers a family atmosphere with experienced coaches and development that is second to none. Come Fly with Hawks!
WWW.HAMBURGHAWKS.ORG Tryout fee is $10 per session. Any player that did not play for the Hamburg Hawks for the 2011-‐12 season must provide a NYSAHA player release form from your previous organization. This includes all house, girls and travel players.
Division Contact Info: Girls: Tom Nelson 583-‐2654
Mite thru Bantam: Joe Marszalek 864-‐0491
Midget Travel: Mike Surdyk
583-‐2225
GIRLS TRYOUT SCHEDULE DIVISION
Birth Year
Dates
Girls 12/u Tier II TB
2000 & under
4/3/12
5:30pm Hamburg
4/4/12
6:30pm Leisure
Time/Arena
Girls 14/u Tier II TB
1998 & under
4/3/12
6:30pm Hamburg
4/4/12
7:30pm Leisure
Girls 14/16 non-‐tb
4/4/12
8:30pm Leisure
4/5/12
5:30pm Hamburg
Coach Rob Compise
Matt Allard
Brian Scanlon
Hawks 2013 and Girls Tryouts
YOUTH TRYOUT SCHEDULE DIVISION
Birth Year
PeeWee Minor AAA
2001
Monday 4/2/12
5:30pm Hamburg
Wednesday 4/4/12
5:45pm Leisure
PeeWee Major AAA
2000
Monday 4/2/12
6:30pm Hamburg
Tuesday 4/3/12
7:30pm Hamburg
2001-‐2000
Thursday 4/5/12
6:30pm Hamburg
Chris Damiani
Bantam Minor AAA
1999
Monday 4/2/12
8:30pm Hamburg
Bruce Sroka
Wednesday 4/4/12
7:15pm Leisure
Bantam Major AAA
1998
Monday 4/2/12
7:30pm Hamburg
Tuesday 4/3/12
8:30pm Hamburg
Bantam Minor AA
1999
Thursday 4/5/12
7:30pm Hamburg
Gary Hughes
Bantam Major Minor AA AA Bantam
1998
Thursday 4/5/12
8:30pm Hamburg
Tom Kwilos
Midget 18’s AAA
1995/94
Monday 4/2/12
7:30pm Leisure
Brian Dehlinger
Wednesday 4/4/12
6:00pm Hamburg
PeeWee AA
Dates
Time/Arena
Midget 16’s AAA
1997/96
Monday 4/2/12
6:00pm Leisure
Wednesday 4/4/12
7:00pm Hamburg
Midget 16’s AA
1997/96
Monday 4/2/12
7:45pm Leisure
Wednesday 4/4/12
8:00pm Hamburg
***Players should attend all try-‐outs for their age level***
Coach Peter Clouden
Ken Kwilos
Joe Marszalek
Keith Winkler
John Miller
2012 - 2013 Cheektowaga Warriors Travel Team Tryouts *All Tryouts Held At The Cheektowaga Recreation Center*
Team Coach Birth Year Date Time Eric Godzich 2000 Monday, April 2 5:00 - 6:15 PM PeeWee Major "Tournament Bound" Tuesday, April 3 6:05 - 7:00 PM *Thursday, April 5* 6:05 - 7:00 PM* Mark Casillo 2001 Tuesday, April 3 5:00 - 5:55 PM PeeWee Minor Wednesday, April 4 6:05 - 7:00 PM *Thursday, April 5* 5:00 - 5:55 PM* Scott Jacobs 1998 Monday, April 2 6:25 - 7:40 PM Bantam Major "Tournament Bound" Wednesday, April 4 5:00 - 5: 55 PM *Thursday, April 5* 7:10 - 8:05 PM* Mark Kross 1999 Tuesday, April 3 7:10 - 8:05 PM Bantam Minor Wednesday, April 4 7:10 - 8:05 PM Frank Willhauck 1995 & 1994 Monday, April 2 7:50 - 9:05 PM Midget 18U "Tournament Bound" Wednesday, April 4 9:25 - 10:30 PM *Thursday, April 5* 8:15 - 9:15 PM* Tony Schubert 1996 Monday, April 2 9:15 - 10:30 PM Midget 16U "Tournament Bound" Tuesday, April 3 8:15 - 9:15 PM *Thursday, April 5* 9:25 - 10:30 PM* Rich Ineson 1997 Tuesday, April 3 9:25 - 10: 30 PM Midget 15U Wednesday, April 4 8:15 - 9:15 PM
Western New York Hockey Report
March 2012
Page 19
www.westsenecayouthhockey.com
“Hi
Western New York Hockey Report
. My name is Will. “I’m a drug addict.” That is how the 19 yearold from Tonawanda, NY introduced himself to 51 teenagers participating in the Willie O’Ree Skills Weekend held in Buffalo in February. The even brought together 51 boys and girls from youth hockey organizations throughout North America. Wills presentation was part of the groups visit to the “Kids Escaping Drugs, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the support of prevention programs for adolescents and their families suffering from alcohol and drug dependency. Speaking in front of the group, which also included parents and coaches from around the United States and Canada, and following a short pause“Will” continued. “I’m also a hockey player. I love the game and still play it today, despite all the problems I’ve had over the past few years.” In an instant all eyes were riveted on “Will” and for the next 30 minutes all listeners were tuned in to what the speaker had to say. Will, a native of Western New York explained his life story. “Like many other kids, my father got me involved in hockey when I was between three and four years of age,” said Will. “He coached, watched and yelled at me. “He was kind of like my best friend. He became my head coach when I was playing with the Squirt Majors with the Tonawanda Lightning.” Then fate stepped in. “My dad got cancer and about two years after that he died,” remarked Will. “On February 28, 2004 he passed away. “Ironically, I had a hockey game the next day. I remember that because my whole team wore arm bands in honor of my father. “I ended up playing in front of one of the biggest crowds ever for one of my games. I scored the winning goal, but it was disallowed. It became quite the disappointing day.” From there it was on to St. Joseph’s Collegiate Institute where he played hockey as a freshman in high school. Then came his sophomore year. “That’s when I became involved with drugs,” stated Will. “I started smoking marijuana all the time. “My mom wouldn’t let me leave St. Joes. So I flunked out. Got kicked out. “From there it was on to Kenmore West High School. I played more hockey. “But it just wasn’t the same for me. I had lost my love for the sport. “The drugs had taken over my life. Prior to drugs I had never missed a practice or a game. “After than I started missing practices. I just didn’t care. “I lost interest in high school hockey. But I continued playing midget hockey for a split season. “Then I began getting in trouble with the law. I was getting misdemeanors for throwing beer cans at cars and trespassing. “At Kenmore West I received a Class-E felony for running on cars in the parking lot.” At that point Will’s mom had had enough. She
March 2012
Page 20 my hockey career.” At that point Will had to make one of the biggest decisions of his young life. “I tried out with the Buffalo Jr. Stars,” recalled Will, now 19. “I found out that I needed $5000 to pay for expenses to stay on the team. “My mom told me she would come up with the money. She was going to take it out of her retirement fund. “Remember, she was now a single mom. That was a lot of money for her. “So I walked away from hockey. I didn’t want her spending that kind of money on me for hockey. “Instead I got a job with the Tonawanda (NY) Highway Department, a job that I still have today. And I’m still having a blast with hockey. “I’m actually playing roller hockey. I know I have lived a different life than most 19 year-olds.” The best news was yet to come. “Since I’ve been clean of drugs, my love of hockey has come back to me,” commented Will. “Now when I’m on that ice or rink, it kind of feels like nothing else in the
My Name Is Will! The Story of a Hockey Player and Drugs! By Randy Schultz
didn’t know what to do. “She turned to PINS (Persons In Need of Supervision),” continued Will. “PINS didn’t work because I never showed up for it. “A runaway warrant was put out for my arrest. The authorities came to my house, arrested me in my livingroom in front of my sister. “I was thrown on the ground and handcuffed.” As Will was hauled out Top left: Will speaks to the hockey players attending the Willie O’Ree Skills Weekend and of the house he left behind later that day he played with them in a hockey a crying mom and sister. game at First Niagara Center, a dream of his! “From there it was on (Photos by Janet Schultz) to Juvie (short for the Juvenial Detention Center),” said Will. “I got out of there world really matters. and was put on probation. “I’ve been clean now for over two years. My “I stayed clean from drugs for two weeks before going back to them.Then came September 9, relationship is much better with my mom and the rest of my family. I now want to somehow pay my 2009. mom back for all she’s been through with me. “Today that is known as my clean date. I went “I even have a 60 year-old friend named Jim. to court. “The judge that day had enough of me. He sent He’s taken over in a fathers role with me and is someone there to talk to when I need talking to. me to Juvie again. “And the best part is, I ended up graduating “Twenty days later I was on the grounds for from my high school at Kenmore West. I got a Kids Escaping Drugs. I got out of there on July 10, hockey award for the Most Improved Player. 2010. “I didn’t know what to do. That’s when hockey “I also got the principals award given to a student who has had to overcome a lot of adversity. came back into my life again. “A friend of mine got me a tryout with the Bud My name is on a plaque that hangs there in the school. Bakewell Bruins. I made the team. “I also go out and speak to groups and organi “I was having fun again. This time with the zations with kids in them. I really enjoy that. coaches as well as the players. “I try to bring a little fun into a serious subject. “Then I went back to my old high school And the main message I deliver to the kids is to be hockey team at Ken-West. I ended up making the who you are. team again. “Don’t worry about being in with the ‘in’ “I started out on the fourth line. From there I crowd. Just be who you are. went to the third, then to the second and finally to “If you do that you should lead a pretty good the first line. life.”* “I ended up having a big game against rival Bishop Timon. I scored a goal in overtime that helped us into the playoffs for the first time in our coaches career. “We ended up losing the next week in the semifinals of the playoffs. I thought that was the end of
Western New York Hockey Report
March 2012
Page 21
WNY Girls Ice Hockey Completes Second Year Monsignor Martin Takes League Championship Kenmore Takes Section VI Championship By Janet Schultz
T
he second season of the WNY Girl’s Varsity Ice Hockey Federation season ended with as much excitement as the Inaugural Season gave us. With West Seneca and Monsignor Martin within a point or two of each other for first place all season; and Kenmore and Williamsville Monsignor Martin Captains with 2012 WNYGVIHF pushing towards the top, it was anyone’s call who Trophy. (Photo by Janet Schultz) would be where at playoff time. As it turned out, West Seneca was in first and drew Lancaster, a struggling team all season, in the first round of the playoffs. West Seneca beat them soundly and moved into a playoff spot. Monsignor Martin drew a bye for the first round. Seeded #4, Kenmore played #5 Amherst/Sweethome KATZ and Orchard Park/Frontier faced off against Williamsville. The result was Kenmore 4 over KATZ 0, and Orchard Park/Frontier 2, over Williamsville 1, in overtime. West Seneca, Kenmore and Orchard Park/Frontier headed to the semifinals along with Monsignor Martin. In the first game Monsignor Martin got on the scoreboard first off the stick of Tara Barnhardt, assisted by Ashley Songin and Julia Duquette. That was followed by one dumped in by Duquette, assisted by Marielle Buffamonte. Kenmore answered back when Kate Miller scored, assisted by Lina Mirabella. In the second period it was Monsignor Martin’s Rachel Lenard with the only goal of the period. She got an assist from Rachel Ziarnowski putting the
score at 3-1 and taking Monsignor Martin to the Championship Game. In the second game Orchard Park/Frontier and West Seneca played a tied game from the second period through the second overtime period. It was then that West Seneca’s Nicole Kirchberger, assisted by Jillian Schrader got one past Goaltender Danielle Glinski ending the game at 2-1. West Seneca would now face Monsignor Martin in the League Championship. Once again it was a game that no one could call. West Seneca got on the board first with a goal off the stick of Hailey Glynn in the first period. The scored remained 1-0 through the second but in the third MM’s Julia Duquette had the game of her life as she put in two goals that would take Monsignor Martin to the sound of the buzzer and the 2012 League Championship. The season didn’t end there. The Section VI Championship was up for grabs. As a private school, Monsignor Martin isn’t part of Section VI. That put Kenmore up against West Seneca. One more time, a game that had everyone on the edge of their seat. Kenmore and West Seneca remained scoreless going into the third period. At that point Goaltenders Lauren Pray (Kenmore) and Sydney Glynn (West Seneca) had faced 23 and 10 shots on goal. At the 4:44 mark of the third period Lina Mirabella shot one in, assisted by Kate Miller and Kara Zelasko. The remaining third period was a fight up and down the ice but Kenmore held on to the 1-0 score and became the 2012 Section VI Champions. Outstanding in Goal was Pray who held back 42 shots from the West Seneca team. This season was as exciting as the Inaugural season. No one knew what the end result would be. What it gave spectators was another year of great hockey skill, fast action and lots of entertainment. The League is looking forward to more school’s sponsoring teams for the 2012-13 season and make the league even more competitive and exciting.*
Clarence Mustangs 2012-2013 Travel Tryout Schedule Division 8U Cross Ice**
Birth Years 2004-2008
Coach Date and Time Dennis Dawron 523-9595 Try it for FREE; Applications on Website Dates will be on Website Soon! http://www.clarencemustangs.com
Pee Wee Minor
2001
Pee Wee Major*
2000
Bantam Minor
1999
Bantam Major*
1998
16U* TB Midget Minor 16U NTB
1996
Paul Saccone 864-2468 John Paterson 903-2462 Steve Naylor 741-7197 Bob Kirisits 912-6600 Steve Godin 741-2918 Mike Lock 570-2625 Dan Yustin 471-3119
Midget* 18U Major
1996-97 1994-95
*Tournament Bound Eligible, “TBA” To Be Announced,
Mon. 4/2 Wed. 4/4 Mon. 4/2 Tues. 4/3 Mon. 4/2 Wed. 4/4 Mon. 4/2 Tues. 4/3 Tues. 4/3 Wed. 4/4 Mon. 4/2 Wed. 4/4 Mon. 4/2 Tues. 4/3
5:00 p.m. 5:00 p.m. 6:00 p.m. 5:00 p.m. 7:00 p.m. 6:00 p.m. 7:00 p.m. 6:00 p.m. 9:00 p.m. 8:00 p.m. 8:00 p.m. 9:00 p.m. 9:00 p.m. 8:00 p.m.
The Clarence Mustangs Organization is a “B” Center in the West Section of NYSAHA going into our 12th season and all teams listed are eligible to compete at Tier II Travel level in the WNYAHL. Coaching applications are available on our website.
www.clarencemustangs.com The Clarence Mustangs will be partnering with the Buffalo Bisons, again this season, on our 8U Cross Ice program. Go to our webpage for Cross Ice applications. Our Learn to Play for First Timers will be combined with our Cross Ice Program.
All tryouts will be held at Hockey Outlet Ice Rink on Niagara Falls Blvd. Releases are required in order to tryout and players should plan on being at all tryout sessions. Please bring a copy of the players birth certificate and a down payment with the desire to make a committment. Please monitor our webpage as tryout dates and times, as well as team configurations, may change!
Western New York Hockey Report
College Report
March 2012
Page 22
Honorable mention went to Tenecia Hiller and All-Rookie honors went to Ali Binnington and Celeste Brown. Moss, a junior, is enjoying a by Janet Schultz OSWEGO breakout season for the Tigers, as she leads Hamburg native and Freshman goaltenall Division III skaters with 26 assists and all der Bridget Smith posted 33 saves to keep defensemen with 32 points. She finished fourth the fourth-seeded Oswego State women’s ice hockey team (11-14-2) within striking overall in scoring among all ECAC West players with 28 points in 18 games and led distance of second-seeded Plattsburgh (18-5-3), but the Lakers were unable to break the conference with 22 assists. through in a 1-0 ECAC West Semifinal loss. The Tigers were ranked first in Division III, broke a regular season record for the Earlier this season Smith made 18 stops and Caledonia’s MacKenzie Lee had a second straight season with 23 victories and were the top seed and host to the 2012 hand in three goals to beat Neumann in Oswego’s first-ever playoff win. Fairport’s ECAC West Tournament semifinals and championship. Kelly Collins put the Lakers ahead 1-0 in the second period on a power-play goal. The RIT women’s hockey team (26-1-1) will host the 2012 NCAA Division III Women’s Ice Hockey Championship with the semifinals on Friday, CORTLAND March 16, and championship/third place games on Saturday, March 17 at Ritter Arena. .The Red Dragons concluded their season with a 5-16-1 overall record and 3-14-1 RIT will host SUNY Plattsburgh (19-6-3) in the first semifinal at mark in the ECAC West. 3:30 p.m., while Gustavus Adolphus (24-2-2) will face defending National Buffalo native Chelsea Hausberger (Buffalo Bisons) had 3 goals and 5 assists this Champion Norwich (26-2-1) in the second semifinal at 7 p.m. The third place season and Orchard Park native Maggie Giamo (RIT) had one goal and three assists. game will take place at 3:30 p.m. on Saturday, with the championship getting Giamo graduates this year. underway at 7 p.m. RIT advanced after defeating Concordia-Moorhead (Minn.) 5-2 in first round action on Saturday, March 10. Norwich defeated Amherst, 5-0, while CORNELL Plattsburgh rallied to defeat Middlebury, 4-2 and Gustavus Adolphus defeated The Big Red of Cornell are headed to the NCAA Frozen Four after Wisconsin-River Falls, 4-2, all on March 10 defeating Boston University in an amazing game. RIT, in its third trip to the NCAA Tournament (2007, 2011), is host for the Fourteen goals in three periods, both teams came back from being second straight year. down three goals, the winning goal being scored with 10 seconds left in the third overtime and it was the longest game in program history. BUFFALO STATE They clinched the ECAC Quarterfinals series 2-0 with a win over Utica (10-12-3/7-9-2) exploded for five goals in the secBrown University 6-0. This is the Big Red’s third consecutive ECAC ond period and continued to pour it on in a 9-0 victory over Hockey Semi-final and its 10th consecutive ECAC Hockey TournaBuffalo State (7-16-2/4-13-1) in the season finale. ment victory. The Bengal’s Jordan Lee (Colorado Springs) allowed They then went on to beat Quinnipiac 5-1 putting them against St. Lawrence Unifour goals on 34 shots before being relieved by Jessica versity in the finals. Garland (Cheektowaga) midway through the second. Gar St. Lawrence broke a 1-1 tie and went on to beat Cornell 3-1 giving them the land made 17 saves on 22 shots. Brianna Murphy (Depew) ECAC Hockey Championship. established a new school record for games played, as she made her 95 appearance with Cornell meets the University of Minnesota in the first round of the Frozen Four. Buffalo State in the game against Utica. Also playing in 95 games was Leah Knott. Cornell senior forward Rebecca Johnston has been named a finalist for the ECAC Hockey Player of the Year Award. Johnston, who was the league’s Rookie of the Year in 2008, has had an excellent senior season. She leads Cornell and the entire conferState Tournament News: ence with 51 points on the year. Johnston has also been named as one of the nominees Two WNY teams are heading the the Nationals including the Buffalo Regals 14 U for the Patty Kazmaier Award given to college hockey’s best player. Johnston was a team and the West Seneca Wings 12U top-10 finalist last season. The Regals went 5-0, beating Rochester 2-1 in the finals and won the most epic Cornell junior defenseman Lauriane Rougeau has been named a finalist for ECAC game in the semi’s, Potsdam. The Regals beat Potsdam 4-3, a team that knocked them out of the State semi’s last year. The game went to a sudden death shootout, after a Hockey’s Defensive Defenseman of the year. Rougeau’s offense excellent as well. Among league defensemen, she ranks sixth with 22 points on five goals and 17 assists. five minute overtime and a five player shootout. Prior to that they beat Brewster 2-0; Chazy, 4-0 and Lake Placid, 4-1. The 14U team heads to Dallas for the Nationals. Her plus/minus rating of +38 is good for second in ECAC Hockey, tied with Fortino. The West Seneca 12U, Tier II team beat Clifton Park 3-2 to take the New York She is also a finalist for the Patty Kazmaier Award and one of just five defensemen State Championship. Clifton Park was ranked third in the nation. They started out beatnominated for the award. ing Lake Placid 5-3 followed by a 2-2 tie with Central New York Bobcats. They went on to beat the Long Island Lady Islanders 1-0 and the Brewster Bulldogs 4-2 to get to NIAGARA UNIVERSITY the finals. The third-seeded Niagara women’s hockey team A full recap of these two championships will be posted on the Western New York (10-16-8; 3-6-3 CHA) saw their season come to an end in Hockey Report website.* the 2012 CHA Tournament Semifinals with a 3-2 defeat to the second-seeded Robert Morris Colonials (18-9-4; Coyotes Do Well In Jamestown 6-3-3 CHA). With less than four minutes to go in the third period and down 3-1, freshman forward Kayla Raniwsky netted her seventh goal of the season to bring the Purple ollowing three Eagles back within one goal, but it was not enough to finish the comeback against the days of non-stop Colonials. hockey action, the “We battled hard and owned the second half of the game, especially the third,” Niagara County head coach Josh Sciba said. “We had plenty of chances, but couldn’t finished. Give Coyotes won the credit to RMU, they played physical and blocked a lot of shots which was the differSquirt Blue Division ence. Our league is continuing to improve and it’s more even that it has ever been.” of the Mid-Winter Robert Morris took the 2012 CHA Championship and moves on to the NCAA Hockey Classic in Frozen Four. Jamestown. The •Erica Owczarczak was named to the First Team All-College Hockey America three-day event was Team. Owczarczak earns First-Team All-CHA honors for the first time in her career held at the Jamesafter having a solid season for the Purple Eagles. The West Seneca native is tied for town Savings Bank third in the conference among defensemen in goals (5) and points (14) and eighth in Ice Arena. defensemen assists (9). Owczarczak was named CHA Offensive Player of the Week In the semi-finals Niagara County defeated Strongsville II, 5-3. Nick Wood led after tallying the game winning goal in a 2-1 victory over Colgate. the way with two goals. •Sophomore goalie Sarah Moses and freshman defenseman Kelsey Gunn were In the championship game, Niagara County came away in the high scoring conselected to the All-CHA Second Team and freshman forward Kayla Raniwsky and test, defeating Camillius, 6-4. D.J. Covell scored a hat trick for the Coyotes. freshman goalie Abby Ryplanski were named to the All-Rookie Team. Wood added two goals with Jimmy Stephen adding another. For the series Covell had six goals and 11 points, Wood added six goals and nine RIT points, Noah Kindzia had a goal and seven points, while Alex Trimboli had four as Seven members of the RIT Tigers have been named to the 2012 All-ECAC West sists. Team, including Webster’s (NY) Kristina Moss named to First-Team with Kourtney (Photo Courtesy of Niagara County Coyotes) Kunichika. Named to Second Team were Laura Chamberlain and Kolbee McCrea.
Women’s Hockey
F
WNY Hockey Report
March 2012
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Adult Hockey: Canucks Take OTHLEA’s Manly Cup By Michael Mroziak
T
he Great Lakes Building Systems Canucks have done what the more famous Vancouver Canucks have failed to do three times: win a cup. In this case, members of the GLBS Canucks hoisted the Lord Manly Cup after winning the Old Tyme Hockey League of East Aurora’s championship game, defeating the Arriba Tortilla Flyers, 5-4. The victory capped off a playoff run that began with a dramatic win over the Elm Street Bakery Nordiques, a win that required a late come-from-behind goal followed by a game winner in overtime. Following that, the Canucks defeated the Bar Bill Bruins and Bruce’s Automotive Maple Leafs to earn their trip to the final against the Flyers. For the Flyers’ part, the road to the title game included wins over the Blue Lantern Sharks, Del Aureo Jets and Sorrentino’s Golden Seals. The Canucks’ claim to fame last season, its first in the OTHLEA, was its most high-profile member: former NHL defenseman Jay McKee. Having resettled in Western New York after his final NHL stop with the Pittsburgh Penguins, the former Buffalo Sabre attracted a lot of attention and interested adult players by participating with the Canucks. This season, he began his new job as an assistant coach with the Rochester Americans, thus ending his relationship with the OTHLEA. How ironic that the Canucks didn’t need the former NHLer to win it all. They did, however, have talent including forwards Dan Wojdan and Andy Beale. The Flyers were led in scoring this season by Chris Catanzaro, John Davidson and Jeff Homewood. The Lord Manly Cup isn’t really a cup but rather a metal cutout of the maple leaf that matches that of sponsor Molson (via Certo Brothers Distributing) set into a block of wood. What makes it stand out from other local adult league championships is that it does borrow an idea from the more famous Stanley Cup and provide spaces where winning teams and their players’ names are engraved. Members of the Canucks will be “immortalized” along with the three preceding champions on the Cup in coming weeks.*
Western New York Hockey Report
March 2012
Page 24
West Seneca Youth Hockey Association Welcome to West Seneca Hockey
This is our 39th Season as the Area’s Premier AAA/AA Hockey Association. Below is our tryout schedule along with a line up of our highly qualified coaches and their credentials. Come join our 100% all VOLUNTEER Hockey Association and enjoy all the amenities we have to offer: • Very clean, well conditioned facility with the best ice surface in the area • Fully staffed Pro Shop & Concession stand • Private Girls locker room • An involved Booster Club who are hosts to numerous activities and functions including – pizza parties, hot dog roasts, Santa, dances, player gifts, and our end of year banquets • One low affordable price that includes your own uniforms (jerseys, socks, shells, jersey nameplates, and an embroidered jersey bag) • Complementary picture package, player participation trophy, and an impressive yearbook • Along with a season long subscription to WNY Hockey Report magazine
All ice sessions are at the West Seneca Recreation Facility Fee for each session is $10.00 - Releases are required for non-W.Seneca players
Pee Wee Minor - 2001 Jim McCarthy - 870-9696
Pee Wee Major - 2000 Bill Gehen – 861-0841
PeeWee Tier II – 00 & 01 Mark Narby – 481-2510
Bantam Minor - 1999 Darren McCormick – 863-
Bantam Major - 1998 Adam Zurowski – 864-
Bantam Tier II – 98 & 99 Dick “Rogie” Marini –
coachmac1970@roadrunner.com Monday April 2 @ 7:00pm Tuesday April 3rd @ 7:30pm
bgehen@bgclubop.org Monday April 2 @ 8:00pm Tuesday April 3rd @ 7:30pm
narbylomar@verizon.net Tuesday April 3rd @ 8:15pm Wednesday April 4th @ 5:00pm
0779 mickboys4@aol.com Monday April 2 @ 4:00pm Tuesday April 3rd @ 9:00pm
0905 adzur8034@aol.com Monday April 2 @ 5:00pm Tuesday April 3rd @ 10:00pm
826-6549 superdicksb@aol.com Tuesday April 3rd @ 5:00pm Wednesday April 4th @ 9:00pm
steve@orthowny.com Monday April 2nd @ 6:00pm Wednesday April 4th @ 10:00pm
menglish63@aol.com Monday April 2nd @ 10:00pm Tuesday April 3rd @ 4:00pm
tlhfore@verizon.net Tuesday April 3rd @ 8:15pm Wednesday April 4th @ 5:00pm
croberts14220@gmail.com Tuesday April 3rd @ 6:45pm Wednesday April 4th @ 7:00pm
Wednesday April 4th @ 8:00pm Thursday April 5th @ 6:00pm
Midget 15U - 1997 Steve Hietanan – 984-9185
Girls 12U – 00 & 01 Rocco Dellaneve – 675-
6239 ddella1219@aol.com Tuesday April 3rd @ 6:45pm Wednesday April 4th @ 6:00pm
Midget 16U - 1996 Matt English – 597-8816
Girls 14U – 98 & 99 Chris Roberts – 923-3423
Midget 18U – 94 & 95 Todd Hicks – 860-7090
Girls 16U – 96 & 97 TBD
Girls 19U – 94 & 95 Dave Warnick
– 628-4988 – luckych46@roadrunner.com Thursday April 5th 7:00pm
MEET OUR COACHES! VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT WWW.WESTSENECAYOUTHHOCKEY.COM
Western New York Hockey Report
March 2012
Page 25
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Western New York Hockey Report
March 2012
Page 26
Western New York Hockey Report
HPHD Hockey Academy
Small Classes, Big Results for Mites
H
to Midget Players
igh Performance Hockey Development (HPHD) has taken another step toward providing more alternatives for training Western New York’s hockey players with the introduction of HPHD Academy, located in New Era Park in Blasdell, New York. Through professional instruction and a positive environment, players of all age groups and skill levels will be able to improve their game all year round. HPHD Coaching Director Steve Thomson explains, “The Academy, like other HPHD programs, is based on personalized instruction. Due to the limited ice availability in Western New York, until now, hockey training programs have not been available 52 weeks per year for players to improve their skills. “The Academy training methodology has been proven effective in various training centers across Canada. The HPHD Hockey Academy will further a player’s confidence and give them the skills to improve their game and outperform the competition. Our synthetic ice rink and performance training area at New Era Park in Blasdell allow us to introduce the Academy model which is both development and cost effective.” The Academy sessions feature a maximum of five players per coach to allow for both the repetition and the personalized feedback required to learn new skills. The sessions can be used by individual players, small groups or embedded into team development plans. The various Hockey Academy programs are offered on a rotating basis and cover over 100 hockey skills. These programs are customized by age and level of play. An annual Hockey Academy membership is very cost-effective with an average price per session of less than ten dollars. For more information, visit www.hphd.us.*
March 2012
Page 27
Nichols Girls Hockey 3rd in U.S.
N
(Submitted by Nichols School)
ichols Girls Varsity Team capped off the 2011/12 season with 2 League Titles (NAPHA and CISAA) for the first time in the same season. Nichols finished the season with an overall record of 26W-3L-3T. Over the 32 games that Nichols played this season, the team scored overall 185 Goals and only gave up 42 goals during the season. Based on the most recent rankings Nichols is ranked 3rd in the United States based on its record and overall strength of schedule. Nichols captured the NAPHA(North American Prep Hockey Association) regular season title by going 10-1-1. The team scored 66 goals during the NAPHA regular season and only gave up 13 goals. Nichols won the League Championship in Quebec by beating Wyoming Seminary in the Quarter Finals by a score of 5-0, and the beat Gilmore Academy in the semi-finals by a score of 5-0. That would pit Nichols against Stanstead, Quebec who beat Nichols in the finals last season. Nichols came out in the championship determined to have a different outcome and won by a convincing score of 6-1. Nichols would then move onto play for the CISAA(Conference of Independent Schools Athletic Association) which the top Canadian Prep Schools participate in. Nichols went had an overall record of 10W-2L during the regular season. Nichols would open up with a convincing Semi-Final win over Appleby College by a score of 6-0. That would allow Nichols to square off against Bishop Strachan in a best 2 out of 3 series. It would also be a rematch from last season’s 1 game final which Bishop Strachan won. Nichols was focused on having a different outcome this year. In game 1, in Toronto, Nichols fell behind by a score of 2-0, but battled back to win a see-saw battle by a score of 7-5. This would allow Nichols to clinch the series at home in game #2 played at Nichols. Nichols started out strong to take a 2-0 lead, Bishop Strachan would battle back to take a 3-2 lead. Nichols would not be denied as they continued to battle and answered back with 3 late goals to win by a score of 5-3. As Nichols celebrated the victory, the team reached it’s goal of capturing both League titles for the first time in the same season. In both league championship rounds, Nichols defeated the 2 teams that beat Nichols in last years championships.
Western New York Hockey Report
March 2012
Page 28
BUFFALO STARS JUNIOR HOCKEY “A commitment to hockey excellence� The Buffalo Stars Junior Hockey Program will begins its 11th season of play in the Junior ranks. The team will consist of 13 forwards, 7 defensemen and 2 goaltenders that will make a commitment towards hockey and academic excellence. In addition, one additional alternate will be chosen at each position. The successful candidates will begin an intense training regimen that will begin shortly after being accepted as part of the team. Five practice players will also be chosen. The team is geared towards the elite level hockey athlete born in 1996 or earlier. The team will focus mainly on the 96 through 93 birth-year, however, a limited number of 97 birth year players may be considered. Initial Tryouts will be held at Holiday Twin Rinks during a weekend Tryout Camp. The Camp will be held April 28th and 29th. Additional Tryouts will be held as necessary throughout the spring and early summer. Players will be notified via email as to report times and schedule for the tryout. Visit us on line at www.buffalostars.com You can download a copy of the Application from the website.
Success is a marathon, one shift at a time
Western New York Hockey Report
Super Sunday Report by Randy Schultz
HIGH SCHOOL CLUB HOCKEY
ix champions were crowned on Super Sunday on February 26 at First Niagara Center. Three of the champs were from the Western New York Varsity Hockey Federation, with the other three coming from High School Club Hockey.
Starpoint vs. Cheektowaga Starpoint defeated Cheektowaga, 5-2, to win its second straight Super Sunday championship. Dylan Lampka, Steven Pierre-Louis, Tony Perez, Viekko Mielonen and Kyle Griffin scored for the Spartans.
FEDERATION HOCKEY
Iroquois/Alden vs. City Honors/Cardinal O’Hara Defenseman Peter Guido scored two goals and added two assists, while Roy Davis added two mor goals to lead Iroquois/Alden to a 9-3 win. Ryan Kaufmann also had three assists for the victors.
S
Niagara-Wheatfield vs. Williamsville North Dillon Hayes scored two goals in leading Niagara-Wheatfield to a 4-0 victory over North. Alex Kammerer recorded the shutout for the Falcons, his first of the season. Kenmore East vs. Williamsville East This was a battle between the two top ranked small schools in New York State. In the end, it wasn’t much of a battle at all. Taylor Davis had two goals and an assist in leading Kenmore East to an easy, 9-2 win over East. Andrew Sturtz and Don Battista each added two goals apiece for the victors.
Hutch Tech vs. St. Francis Tom Skura and Ed Shantler each scored a pair of goals to pace Hutch Tech to a 5-3 win over St. Francis. Mike Mendola also scored two goals in a losing cause for St. Francis.*
St. Francis vs. Canisius For St. Francis, it was their third straight Super Sunday appearance. In their previous two games, St. Francis never scored a goal. It was a different story this year with St. Francis coming away with a 4-1 win over Canisius. David Kulczyk scored the game winning goal with a little over five minutes remaining in regulation time.
It was Kenmore East 6-3 over Oswego to bring home their first NYSPHYSAA 20112 Hockey Championship in Division II. Senior Forward Andrew Sturtz was named MVP after scoring 3 goals and adding 3 assists. Don Giliforte had one goal and four assists and Austin Ford had a goal. In Division I it was Suffern 3, Pittsford 2.
Kenmore East Takes NYSPHSAA 2012 Championship
March 2012
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Hockey Scoring Wrap-Up from 2012 New York State Tournament Tier I - 10U Westchester Express 7 Long Island Gulls 3
Tier III - 12U Canadaigua 4 Tritown 0
Tier I - 12U Syracuse Nationals 3 Rochester 2
Tier III - 14U Onondaga 3 Canadaigua 0
Tier I - 14U Westchester Express 3 LI Gulls 7
Girls Tier II - 12U West Seneca 3 Clifton Park 2 Girls Tier II - 14U Buffalo Regals 2 Rochester Edge 1
Tier II - 10U Westchester Vipers 3 Niagara Jr. Purple Eagles 0 Tier II - 12U Massena/St. Lawrence 4 Niagara JPE 2 Tier II - 14U Massena/St. Lawrence 5 LI Rebels 2 Tier III -10U Tritown 3 Onondaga 0
Girls Tier II - 16U Potsdam Ice Storm 4 Brewster Lady Bulldogs 1 Girls Tier II - 19U Chazy 2 Tompkins 1 Womens “ B” Syracuse Warriors 4 pts Buffalo Hornets 0 pts
NYSCHS AAU High School Championship Iroquois/Alden brought home the 2012 AAU High School Championshp after beating Oceanside 3-2 in the Mixed School Division. In the Large School Division, Lancaster lost in the Championship round to Massapequa 3-1. Long Beach took the Small School Division.
Western New York Hockey Report
March 2012
Page 30
From the Ice to the Sport Court
Attention all ice hockey addicts… About to go through hockey withdrawal knowing the summer is coming and the ice will be melted? Well, just your luck, the Western New York Roller Hockey League may be just what you need to bridge the gap until you can once again relive the excitement of lacing up the skates and gliding out on the freshly laid ice. For many years, the inline hockey scene has been an underground domain, one easily mistaken for the average pick up street hockey or ball hockey game. This, however, is a gross misinterpretation of the actuality inline hockey represents. Offering just as much competition and excitement of an ice hockey match up, inline hockey, markets to players of all ages and skill levels. On the rink, teams ranging from 6-12 players’ battle it out in a 4 on 4 fashion with a goalie defending against a puck in front of their regulation sized net on either end. Each player with stick in hand and adorned in inline skates and their equipment, engage in fast paced, high energy, intense competition until a champion is crowned. For those aware of the inline scene, there is tremendous crossover amongst ice hockey players, especially in the summer months, as an outlet to maintain their skills and fulfill their competitive desires all year long. In fact Sanborn native, Thomas McCollum, 2008 first round draft pick to the Detroit Red Wings has been an avid inline hockey player and supporter since his childhood. Additionally, Canisius College ice hockey star, Cory Conacher, now currently the AHL’s 4th leading scorer represented Buffalo at inline hockey’s national grandstand NARCh Finals, helping his team win the Junior National Championship. So for hockey lovers of all ages don’t let the summer blues get you down, come on out, lace up the skates, the inline version, and try your hand on the sport court!
Back cover with Front Cover in Separate File HPHD ad is bleed