Boll signs with Whalers, shuns NCAA

Jared Boll said no to the NCAA and hello to the OHL.

(Photo credit - Robert Meyer)

Jared Boll, acquired by the Plymouth Whalers last week from the Kingston Frontenacs for fifth-round draft choice in 2006, has shunned Minnesota-Duluth and will instead play for the Whalers this season.

“We're excited about having Jared on board,” Plymouth head coach and general manager Mike Vellucci said. “We think he'll bring some scoring with grit and toughness to the rink.”

“I've heard nothing but good things about the Whalers,” said the 19-year-old Boll. “I'm excited to get started and become part of things, especially since Plymouth acquired my rights. I had a few options, but the OHL seems to suit my game.”

In signing Boll, a Crystal Lake, Ill., native, the Whalers' Chicago connection gets a little stronger. Current Whalers Gino Pisellini and Mike Letizia come from the Chicago area, as do 2005 draft choices Kyle Jendra (Chicago Chill) and Vincent Loverde (Chicago Young Americans).

Boll and Pisellini were teammates in 2002 with the Team Illinois midgets.

Although Boll, a center, was drafted by Kingston in the 6th round (101st overall) of the 2002 OHL Draft, he played the last two seasons for the Lincoln Stars of the United States Hockey League. Boll scored 23 goals and 24 assists for 47 points and a league-leading 294 penalty minutes in 59 games last year and scored six goals with eight assists for 14 points and 176 PIMs in 57 games for the Stars in 2003-04.

Boll was captain of the Stars last season and made the USHL all-star team. He is currently ranked 212th by the National Hockey League Central Scouting Bureau among North American skaters.

In coming to Plymouth, Boll understands the physical side of the game.

“Penalty minutes are a part of the game,” Boll admitted. “I have no problem getting into your face. I have to play physical to be effective.”

Boll will report to Plymouth's training camp August 30 with the rest of the Whalers.

Indians players moving on to juniors, NCAA

While the Soo Indians may be no more, several players from this past season’s team will be moving on to Division I and Division III programs this fall, as well as other junior programs.

League MVP Jason Kearney is heading to Bentley College in Waltham, Mass., to tend goal for the Falcons. Fellow goalie Troy Redmann is off to the NAHL champion Texas Tornado for another season of juniors.

A foursome of forwards, Jim Pentecost, Nik Sellers, Andrew Broughton (started last season with the Indians, finished with Texarkana) and Derek Punches (finished with Texas) are all college-bound. Pentecost and Broughton will play for D-III Curry College in Milton, Mass., while Sellers and Punches will offer their services to Wayne State University.

Sellers and Punches will join former Soo forward and 2004-2005 CHA rookie of the year Stavros Paskaris in Detroit.

Defenseman Tiger Marcotte has committed to Utica College, a D-III college in New York and Marty Gurnoe, another blueliner, is staying close to home and will play for Lake Superior State University.

Ray Kaunisto, a Northern Michigan recruit for 2006, and cousin Steven Kaunisto are leaving town to play for the USHL Clark Cup champion Cedar Rapids (Iowa) RoughRiders.

The Indians finished in third place at the Gold Cup National Championship in April and promptly folded after their tenth season in the NAHL, all under head coach Joe Shawhan.

Whalers keep dealing, get Kyle Lawson

Plymouth's newest acquisition - former HoneyBaked D-man Kyle Lawson.

The Plymouth Whalers continue to stockpile college players as today, Plymouth traded the rights to Ohio State goalie Ian Keserich to the Saginaw Spirit for the rights to defenseman Kyle Lawson, a New Hudson native.

Lawson, 18, has signed with Notre Dame for 2006-2007, played this past year with the U.S. Under-18 Team and will suit up for the Tri-City Storm of the USHL this coming season. He was originally an Owen Sound pick in 2003 and was traded to Saginaw this past season.

The 19-year-old Keserich was a Sudbury Wolves’ pick in 2002 and acquired by the Whalers two seasons ago. He'll be starting his sophomore season with the Buckeyes this fall.

Whalers draft Slovakian centerman Otcenas

The Plymouth Whalers had two picks in the annual Canadian Hockey League Import Player Draft today and with their first pick (25th overall) took center Ondrej Otcenas, an 18-year-old who played for HK Dukla Trencin last year in Slovakia.

He was rated among Europeans in the fifth round of the 2005 NHL Entry Draft that never took place.

Otcenas scored 17 goals and added 26 assists for 43 points last season and also had four goals and an assist for Team Slovakia at the IIHF World Under-18 Championships in April, won by the United States. He added four goals in eight playoff games for Trencin.

Otcenas is the second Slovakian ever taken by the Whalers since the draft started in 1992. Milan Kostolny, who played for the team from 1994-1996, was the first.

Plymouth head coach and general manager Mike Vellucci credited Plymouth 's European scout Willy Langer for recommending Otcenas.

“We received excellent reports about Otcenas through Willy,” Vellucci said. “Otcenas is coming off a good year overseas and has a chance to make an impact in Plymouth . We look forward to seeing him in training camp.”

The Whalers passed on their second pick at No. 83.

CHL teams are permitted two imports per team and Plymouth already has forward Vaclav Meidl returning in the fall.

Plymouth has had moderate success in getting their imports to report to the OHL as all their picks since 1992, when the draft was started, have reported with the exception of Jozef Kohut in 1993 and Denis Arkhipov in 1998. Last year’s pick, defenseman Michael Kolarz was traded to the Kingston Frontenacs when Jonas Fiedler returned for his overage season.

Spirit deal Crowder, get McDonough

Newly-acquired Saginaw forward Ryan McDonough.

On the day of the Canadian Hockey League's Import Draft, the Saginaw Spirit made some noise by dealing for youth.

The Spirit acquired forward Ryan McDonough from the Sudbury Wolves and Sudbury's first-round pick (37th overall) in the Import Draft. Going to the Wolves is forward Chase Crowder, 17, Saginaw's first-round pick (7th overall) in the Import Draft as well as second-round picks in the 2006 and 2007 OHL drafts. Saginaw also receives Sudbury's first-round CHL pick next year.

McDonough is a 17-year-old native of Toronto, Ontario, and was Sudbury's first-round pick (5th overall) in the 2004 OHL Priority Selection. He had 15 goals, 22 assists and 31 penalty minutes in 58 games with the Wolves during the 2004-05 season.

"We are extremely pleased to add a player of Ryan's caliber to our roster," said Spirit general manager and head coach Bob Mancini. "He quickly proved himself to be a point-producer in the OHL. I look forward to adding him to our offense."

McDonough, who was the third leading under-age scorer in the OHL last season, also lead Team Ontario in scoring at the last Under-17 World Challenge in Lethbridge, Alberta. Crowder collected six points and was minus-18 in 55 games last season, his second in the OHL. He was originally the Spirit's third-round pick (42nd overall) in 2003.

"We wish Chase well in his new home in Sudbury," Mancini said. "He's a good young man and the Spirit thank him for his time in Saginaw."

Both Marek Kvapil and Michael Birner are expected back as Saginaw's two import players this upcoming season.

Whalers ready for CHL Import Draft

Defenseman Michael Kolarz was Plymouth's selection last year, but was dealt to the Kingston Frontenacs prior to training camp.

The Plymouth Whalers are in preparation for tomorrow's Canadian Hockey League Import Draft. The draft is designed to distribute non-North American players throughout the 58-team CHL.

The Whalers will select 25th and 83rd overall. CHL teams can play two import players per season.

Third-year forward Vaclav Meidl is the lone import returning thus far as Jonas Fiedler finished his four-year career as a Whaler last spring in Plymouth's opening-round playoff defeat to the Owen Sound Attack.

Plymouth selections since the beginning of the draft in 1992:

2004- Michael Kolarz
2003- Vaclav Meidl
2002- Martin Cizek
2001- Jonas Fiedler
2000- no selections
1999- Tomas Kurka, Libor Ustrnul
1998- Tomek Valtonen, Denis Arkhipov
1997- Steve Lyle, Yuri Babenko
1996- Sergei Fedotov
1995- Jan Vodrazka
1994- Milan Kostolny
1993- Jozef Kohut
1992- Richard Ujvary

Whalers make minor deal with Frontenacs

Might Jared Boll spurn the NCAA for the OHL?

The Plymouth Whalers made a minor trade last Saturday, but if it comes to fruition the team will have scored a major coup.

Plymouth sent a fifth-round pick in next year's OHL Priority Selection to the Kingston Frontenacs in exchange for forward Jared Boll. The pick was originally Kingston's and obtained by the Whalers in the Rane Carnegie trade last summer.

Kingston had drafted the Chicago-area native in the sixth round of the 2002 OHL draft, but Boll headed to the USHL with hopes of playing NCAA hockey. The 19-year-old captained the Lincoln Stars this past season and has also signed with Minnesota-Duluth for this fall. Boll scored 23 goals and 47 points in 54 games last year and also had a league-leading 294 penalty minutes.

Grabarek coming home to Wayne State

Sterling Heights native Jon Grabarek has signed a National Letter of Intent for the 2005-06 season with Wayne State. Grabarek joins defenseman Matt Krug (Livonia), who previously signed an NLI, as Warrior recruits for the upcoming school year.

A 5-11, 180-pound forward, Grabarek (pronounced gra-BEAR-ick) tallied 43p oints on 17 goals and 26 assists in 59 games in 2004-05 with the Clark Cup champion (USHL) Cedar Rapids RoughRiders. He scored three power-play goals and three game-winning goals while recording a plus/minus rating of +11 as Cedar Rapids compiled a 42-13-5 mark. In helping the RoughRiders to the playoff title (Clark Cup), Grabarek had 10 points in 11 contests on four goals and six assists.

During the 2003-04 campaign, he set the franchise record for points in aseason with 57, while also leading the squad in assists (35), power-play goals (6) and plus/minus rating (+19).

In his initial season with the RoughRiders (2002-03), Grabarek had 15 goals and 14 assists for 29 points while playing in all 60 games. He also tied for third on the team with five power-play goals.

Grabarek graduated in 2002 from Sterling Heights Stevenson High School.

IceDiggers to host late August showcase

The Alpena IceDiggers are hosting an exciting showcase of hockey August 26-28 at the Northern Lights Arena.

The showcase is featuring five teams including NAHL North Division rival Traverse City North Stars and Central States Hockey League members Toledo Cherokee, Grand Rapids Jr. Owls and Motor City Chiefs. The IceDiggers, Cherokee, Chiefs and Owls will each play three games over the course of the weekend, while the North Stars will play in two.

The schedule is as follows:

Friday, August 26, 2005 4:00pm-7:00pm Traverse City v. Grand Rapids
Friday, August 26, 2005 7:00pm-10:00pm Alpena v. Motor City

Saturday, August 27, 2005 9:00am-12:00pm Toledo v. Traverse City
Saturday, August 27, 2005 4:00pm-7:00pm Motor City v. Grand Rapids
Saturday, August 27, 2005 7:00pm-10:00pm Alpena v. Toledo

Sunday, August 28, 2005 10:00am-1:00pm Toledo v. Motor City
Sunday, August 28, 2005 1:00pm-4:00pm Alpena v. Grand Rapids

“We are looking forward to this big weekend of hockey action. It will be our first look at the team in a game situation," Alpena head coach and general manager Ken Miller stated. “The teams we have coming in from the CSHL are very competitive at the Junior B level; it should be great hockey for the fans of Alpena.”

Fans are encouraged to come and follow the action. Admission is $3 per person or $15.00 for a weekend pass good for all seven games. For ticket information please contact the Northern Lights Arena at (989) 356-1878.

These will be the only pre-season games the IceDiggers will play before regular season action begins the second weekend in September.

Saginaw signs 2004 draft pick Chappell

Chris Chappell is on his way to Saginaw

The Saginaw Spirit have signed 2004 draft pick Chris Chappell to an Ontario Hockey League contract for this upcoming season. Chappell, a forward, was the Spirit's 11th round pick, 202nd overall, a year ago.

The 6-foot-4, 204-pound Chappell had eight goals and 27 assists for 35 points and was plus-8 for his hometown Pickering (Ont.) Panthers Junior A team during 2004-05 and was a teammate of Spirit goalie Ryan Daniels.

"Chris performed very well against older players in Pickering," said Spirit general manager and head coach Bob Mancini. "We expect him to add size and offense to the Spirit line-up and challenge for a top line position."

Spirit and Whalers release '05-06 schedules

The Saginaw Spirit and Plymouth Whalers released their 2005-2006 regular season schedules yesterday and will ironically play the first game on the Ontario Hockey League docket, against each other, in Saginaw on Wednesday, Sept. 21 at 7:00 p.m.

Plymouth's home opener is three days later against the Sarnia Sting.

Saginaw and Plymouth play each other seven more times over the course of their 68-game schedules. Games in Plymouth are at 7:30 p.m. and games in Saginaw are at 7:00 p.m., unless noted.

Weds. Jan. 11 at Plymouth
Thurs. Jan. 26 at Saginaw
Sat. Jan. 28 at Plymouth
Sun. Feb. 26 at Saginaw (2:00 p.m.)
Fri. Mar. 3 at Plymouth
Weds. Mar. 15 at Saginaw
Sat. Mar. 18 at Plymouth

Plymouth's schedule here.
Saginaw's schedule here.
Entire OHL schedule here.

A message from the Plymouth Whalers

Plymouth president, head coach and
general manager Mike Vellucci clears up any rumors.

Peter Karmanos Jr. has sponsored youth and junior hockey in Detroit for over 20 years. It is his passion and will continue to be his passion.

I'm excited about the upcoming 2005-06 season. While setting attendance records last season and with seven NHL first round picks in our history and two potential first round picks in Dan Collins and James Neal, fans like watching this young, exciting team. Clearly, the Whalers have made a strong statement in Plymouth and will continue to do so.

There are many rumors concerning the sale of the Compuware Sports Arena, the Plymouth Whalers and the Compuware Youth Hockey Program.

I can assure you the rumors are 100 percent false and inaccurate.

As an organization, we will continue the tradition of excellence that has been the hallmark of Plymouth Whalers hockey for the last 15 years.

Sincerely,

Michael Vellucci
President, General Manager and Head Coach
Plymouth Whalers

Whalers ink local goaltender for '05-06

Whalers sign goalie Jeremy Smith

Goaltender Jeremy Smith, the Plymouth Whalers fourth round (64th overall) pick in the 2005 Ontario Hockey League Priority Selection, has signed with the Whalers and will compete for a roster spot this fall.

Smith, a native of Brownstown Township, posted a 2.44 goals against average and three shutouts in 39 games last season for the Belle Tire minor midgets.

“We think Smith's the best goalie in the draft,” said Plymouth head coach and general manager Mike Vellucci. “We're happy to take him where we did.”

“He's one of the best goaltenders in the United States,” said Plymouth head scout Jim Debenham. “Every time we watched him last year, he was outstanding. There was a game at the OHL Cup Tournament last spring when he allowed eight goals in the game and was named the star of the game. He must have stopped 50 shots and still gave up eight and was called the best player in the game.”

Smith said several factors led to his family's decision to sign with Plymouth.

“There wasn't just one thing – it was a great package,” Smith said. “I love the idea of being able to stay at home while playing for the Whalers. Everyone we've met has been unbelievably nice, especially Mr. Vellucci. I met a lot of the players at (rookie) camp and they all seem like a good group of guys. I have no regrets.”

Plymouth - 30-29-6-3 last season – played last year with 19-year-old Ryan Nie and 17-year-old Justin Garay in goal. Nie played in 57 games last year and could return next season as an overage player. Garay played in 22 games last year as a rookie.

Michigan OHL trio World Junior hopefuls

Saginaw's Tom Pyatt hopes to play for Canada's World Junior Team.

Saginaw Spirit forward Tom Pyatt has been invited to the tryout camp for Canada's National Junior Team in early August to prepare for the 2006 IIHF World Junior Championship this Christmas.

Spirit general manager and head coach Bob Mancini said Pyatt has earned the honor.

"This is a great example of how hard work, and taking advantage of opportunities, can pay off for a young man," said Mancini. "We're all proud of Tom for being invited to this camp as an 18-year-old."

Pyatt earned silver with Team Canada at the IIHF U-18 World Championship in April and had two goals and three assists in six games. The United States won the gold medal.

Spirit teammate Michael Birner earned an invite to the Czech Republic tryout camp as well.

“Michael has been a part of the Czech National Team Development Program for a number of years," added Mancini. "His nomination to the Czech Junior National Team is a testament to his hard work and development.”

Plymouth Whalers second-year forward John Armstrong was invited to Canada's Under-18 summer camp.

Northville native Giosa makes D-I choice

Alpena leading scorer Eric Giosa makes his college commitment.

Outgoing Alpena IceDiggers forward Eric Giosa has committed to play Division I college hockey this fall for the Sacred Heart Pioneers.

The 20-year-old from Northville led the team in scoring this past season with 22 goals and 24 assists for 46 points while playing in all 56 games. Giosa recorded seven power-play goals and had one game-winner.

"Eric was a big part of our team the last two seasons," Alpena head coach and general manager Ken Miller said. "We are very proud of Eric and we wish him the best as he moves on to Sacred Heart.”

Giosa will join former IceDiggers Archie Dessert (Connecticut), Bret Norris (Canisius), Bobby Phillips (Mercyhurst) and Paul Scalici (Bentley) who play in the Atlantic Hockey conference. It also means he will see former IceDiggers head coach-GM Mike Mankowski who will be behind the bench as an assistant coach with Canisius.

Sacred Heart University is located in Fairfield, Conn.

Northern Michigan Black Bears Notebook

The Black Bears have had a busy off-season thus far.

The off-season for the Northern Michigan Black Bears has been an eventful one thus far.

Head coach Gerry Lortie has announced his retirement from coaching, but will be staying with the team as an advisor for the 2005-2006 season. Assistant coach Bart Jarrett will be taking the reigns as head coach for the upcoming season with Dave Murphy returning as goalie coach.

The following players have also accepted academic scholarships and will continue playing hockey at the NCAA level:

John Nogatch, Wayne State University (D-I CHA)
Bill Brennan, Utica College (D-III ECAC West)
Russell Law, University of Wisconsin - Stevens Point (D-III NCHA)
Colin Sarfeh, SUNY-Fredonia (D-III SUNYAC)
Ryan Behnke, University of Delaware (D-II ACHA)

Nogatch will sit-out the 2005-2006 season with the Warriors and be eligible for the start of the 2006-2007 season. He left Lake Superior State during last season and returned to the Black Bears. He must attend WSU for one full year before becoming eligible.

In addition, Nick Adamek, Jordan Boman, Chris Kraft and Jared Lavender have received offers of academic scholarships from at least one university. While these players are undecided at this time, the team would like to acknowledge their achievements.

IceDiggers hire assistant coach

The Alpena IceDiggers have hired Kelly Miller as a full-time assistant coach. The 26-year-old brings a wealth of junior and professional playing experience to the organization.

”Kelly has experienced first hand the knowledge, skill dedication and the hard work it takes to become a successful hockey player," new Alpena head coach-GM Ken Miller said. "He will be a great asset to the organization."

Miller, a NAHL alum, played for the Chicago Freeze and the Cleveland Barons where he recorded 44 goals and 29 assists in two seasons. He also played two seasons in the USHL for Des Moines and Waterloo. He recently retired from playing professional hockey having spent time in the ECHL, CHL and UHL. In five seasons, he recorded 52 goals and 69 assists.

”I’m very excited to begin my coaching career," Kelly Miller said. "It is going to be a great challenge, as a coaching staff we will set our standards very high when it comes to developing players for the next level.”

Miller will begin working in Alpena immediately, preparing for the upcoming season. Kelly and his family will call Alpena home.

IceDiggers promote assistant to head coach

New Alpena IceDiggers head coach Ken Miller

The Alpena IceDiggers filled their vacant head coach and general manager position Tuesday when they hired assistant coach Ken Miller.

Miller, a 30-year-old Toledo native, has been the assistant coach of the IceDiggers the last four seasons. He has also served the last two seasons as assistant GM and was the general manager of the team for the 2002 season when the team won the CEHL championship.

“I’ve been waiting for this,” Miller said. “It’s kind of bittersweet because I hate to see (former IceDiggers coach) Mike (Mankowski) go, we’re such good friends, but I’m really looking forward to this opportunity. I’ve been an assistant coach under Mike for five years and I’m ready for the next step.”

As the team’s assistant Miller has been primarily responsible for bench coaching, scouting and game-day operations. Ken also worked with former Toledo Storm GM Pat Pylypuik in Toledo’s minor hockey scene for several years before joining the IceDiggers.

“We are very excited to have a guy with such experience to promote into the position,” said IceDiggers president Mike Bihn. “Ken has been involved with the organization from day one and is the best guy for the job. We are confident he will take the team to the next level.”

Miller said he doesn’t see too many challenges for his first year at the helm of the Junior A franchise.

“I’m just looking for the kids to buy into the system and give 110 percent,” he said. “Things are going to change a bit, they always will when you bring a new coach in.”

Miller is eager to begin his new job. He’ll start working in Alpena immediately.

“My family and I are very thankful for this opportunity,” he said. “I am looking forward to becoming a member of the Alpena community. I am also excited about the group of kids that we have recruited for this season.”

Miller and his wife, Stephanie, will reside in Alpena throughout the year, along with their two-year-old daughter, Kadyn.

Courtesy of the Alpena News.

Mankowski leaving 'Diggers for Canisius College

Alpena head coach Mike Mankowski is leaving to become an assistant coach at Canisius College.

Alpena IceDiggers ownership and head coach Mike Mankowski have agreed to waive the coach's contract and obligations to the IceDiggers to pursue a career of coaching college hockey.

Mankowski is headed to Canisius College, located in Buffalo, N.Y., to serve as the assistant coach. He just finished his fourth season with the IceDiggers and is the only head coach in IceDiggers history. Canisius College, a NCAA Division I hockey program, is a member of the Atlantic Hockey conference. After a national search, they hired Dave Smith on April 15 as their head coach. Smith and Mankowski have worked together previously at USA Hockey Select Festivals.

"We appreciate all the hard work Mankowski has put into the IceDiggers organization and are very excited to have him move on to college hockey," said IceDiggers president Mike Bihn. "We have said all along that our goal was to move everyone on our team to college and/or pro, and that includes our coaches. This is clearly a positive thing for our organization. "

"My family was very excited to make the move to Alpena with the IceDiggers, but with the opportunity at hand my family will now be moving to Buffalo," said Mankowski. "I am very thankful for this opportunity the owners, staff and players have given to me." "We were able to win a championship together and advance over 20 players on to the next level, and that is what junior hockey is all about."

Mankowski will join former IceDiggers Archie Dessert (Connecticut), Bret Norris (Canisius), Bobby Phillips (Mercyhurst) and Paul Scalici (Bentley) who currently play in the Atlantic Hockey conference.

The Toledo IceDiggers won the Continental Elite Hockey League hampionship in 2002 and were runners-up in 2003. They finished sixth in the NAHL North Division in 2004 and 2005.

Recently relocated to Northern Lights Arena in Alpena, the IceDiggers feature 12 players that are age-eligible to return to action next season.

According to ownership, a replacement has been selected and will be announced within days.

Press release courtesy of Alpena's official Web site.

Bighorns ink two CSHLers from Michigan

The Helena Bighorns recently signed two more Michigan area players from the CSHL.

Jordan Adams (Michigan Ice Dogs) and Ross Janecyk (Motor City Chiefs) were recently signed by the NAHL West Division's Bighorns.

Helena head coach Brent Agrusa said he expects both to perform well this fall.

"He (Janecyk) had a great camp in Chicago and will be an impact player for us next season," said Agrusa. "Jordan plays a very physical role, finishing all of his checks. With the offensively skilled team that we have, Jordan was exactly what we are looking for in a Maltby, Draper-type player to insure we have good chemistry this season."

Janecyk, a Grand Rapids native, spent the 2004-05 season playing in the OPJHL for the Buffalo Lightning where he scored 21 points in 49 games. Adams, from Milford, finished the season among the CSHL scoring leaders with 44 points in 45 games.

North Stars sign two forwards, defenseman

The Traverse City North Stars continue to build their roster for their inaugural season in the NAHL and last week added three area players for the upcoming 2005-2006 season.

Forwards Jake Erway (Traverse City) and Joe St. John (Gaylord) along with Cadillac defenseman Nathan Peterson will don the North Stars' colors this fall.

"All three bring something different to the table," North Stars general manager and coach Scott Gardiner said in the Traverse City Record-Eagle. "Jake is a Junior A veteran. He was captain of his last junior team. Nathan Peterson is a great defenseman and moves the puck well. Joe is a prototypical power forward - he can score goals, is physical and fast."

Read the rest of the Record-Eagle story here.

Three Tornado players move on to D-I

Three Michigan natives who played this past year with the NAHL champion Texas Tornado have committed to Division I colleges for this fall.

Tornado captain and Troy native Tom Train (Alabama-Huntsville), Manchester's Derek Punches (Wayne State) and Bloomfield Hills native Justin Liut (Bowling Green), all forwards, will hone their skills on separate college campuses come September.

Punches started this past season with the Soo Indians after backing out of an Air Force commitment last summer.

Forward Matt Krug (Livonia) signed with Wayne State during November's early signing period and will join his older brother Adam in Detroit.

Train scored 33 goals and 69 points this past season in Texas and will join former Tornado teammate Denny Reagan, who just completed his freshman season with the Chargers.

"I think it will be nice fit for Tommy," said Tornado head coach and general manager Tony Curtale, a Detroit native. "I think he will be able to go in there and contribute immediately to become one of their better players. Tommy is a great power forward and will do the little things to make his team successful. I have no doubt he is ready for the next level."

Punches joined the Tornado at the trade deadline in January after playing the past two seasons for the Indians. Between the two clubs, Punches recorded 19 points in 32 games.

"Derek is a very responsible player defensively and also a very strong threat from the circles in," said Curtale. "He was a great addition for us mid-season and help give us depth in order to win a National Championship. I have no doubt he'll make Wayne State a better team."

Punches will join Krug, along with Tornado alumni Jason Bloomingburg, Mark Nebus and Ryan Wright, on the Warriors.

Liut's father, former NHL goaltender Mike Liut, also attended Bowling Green from 1973-77. Justin netted 15 goals last year for the Tornado.

"Justin was not a player that was heavily recruited when he joined us, so he has come a long way in the time he has spent with the Tornado," said Curtale. "Justin found a style that worked for him and for this team, and it paid off for him in the long run. I know he is working very hard to become a player that will consistantly be in the line-up during his time at Bowling Green, but we are very proud of him."

Nine players from last season's Tornado squad have committed to NCAA institutions for this coming fall.

IceDiggers forward makes D-III commitment

Alpena IceDiggers' veteran forward Kaleigh Schrock has committed to play varsity hockey at Neumann College beginning this fall.

Schrock, a 20-year-old from Fort Wayne, Indiana, came to this IceDiggers this past season from the Grand Rapids Jr. Owls of the CSHL. He finished the 2004-05 campaign as the team captain and recorded 15 goals and eight assists. He was second on the team in power play goals with six and his 175 penalty minutes led the IceDiggers and were fourth highest in the NAHL.

"We are extremely excited for Kaleigh," remarked Alpena head coach and general manager Mike Mankowski. "He was a warrior, played well in big games and gave us everything he had."

Neumann College is a member of the ECAC-West (Division III) and is located in Aston, Pennsylvania. Schrock will join former IceDiggers forward Dayne Bihn at Neumann.

In other Alpena news, the IceDiggers completed their first of three tryout camps scheduled for this off-season this past weekend in Toledo, Ohio. Over 85 players participated in the four-day camp at the Toledo Ice House.

The camp included four goalie-only sessions, eight scrimmage games and a final all-star game. Veteran defenseman Adam Snead led all players in scoring with five goals. Kyle Botos, Branden Moran, Bryan Murphy and Nick Stroup all recorded three goals each over the weekend. Goaltender Bryan Kalczynski allowed only one goal the entire weekend.

Other goalies Stephen Madej, Andrew New and Jason Spencer allowed three goals each.

Numerous impressive performances were turned in by underclassmen. A total of eight '88 birth year and four '89 birth year players advanced to the all-star game. All players are looking to advance to the invitation-only tryout camp, which will be held later this summer at Northern Lights Arena in Alpena.

Larman part of Knights CHL championship

Drew Larman came to the London Knights early in the Ontario Hockey League season from the Sarnia Sting and had his season extended into late May.

Sarnia didn't qualify for the playoffs and London dominated the OHL from wire to wire en route to their first OHL Robertson Cup title and then Sunday night, a Canadian Hockey League Memorial Cup championship on their home ice.

Larman, a 20-year-old Canton native, was an integral part of the Knights run to their dual championship. Larman tallied two goals against the Kelowna Rockets in the Memorial Cup round-robin on May 23 after totalling just 13 goals in 70 regular-season games.

"It (felt) pretty good to be able to contribute offensively and getting those two goals was huge, especially to get it started because we were struggling a little bit in the beginning," said Larman in the London Free Press, who tied it 1-1 at 7:16 of the first period.

His second goal came seven minutes into the third period, giving the Knights a 4-1 lead.

The Knights beat Sidney Crosby and the Rimouski Oceanic in the opening game and championship game of the Memorial Cup. Kelowna and the Ottawa 67's also fell to London. The final was a 4-0 shutout for the Knights.

The trade from Sarnia wasn't expected, but proved to be a turning point for Larman's season.

"I was a little nervous coming in, especially to a team already 10-0," Larman said in the same Free Press story of the Knights' record at the time of the trade. "I didn't want to shake things up too much, but it didn't take too long for me to get comfortable."

Larman is eligible to return to the OHL next season as an overage (20-year-old) player.

Another Michigan native, Sterling Heights defenseman Frank Rediker, was hurt much of the year and didn't see any action in the OHL playoffs or Memorial Cup. His career may be done, but he has an overage option next season as well. Rediker came to the Knights at the 2004 OHL trade deadline from the Windsor Spitfires, the team that took him in the first round of the 2001 OHL Priority Selection.

Lerg garners top junior, goalie honors

Omaha Lancers goalie Jeff Lerg, a Livonia native, has been named the USA Hockey/Dave Peterson Goalie of the Year as well as USA Hockey's Junior Player of the Year.

While setting a new United States Hockey League (Junior A Tier II) record for wins in a single season with 36, Lerg helped the Lancers to a share of the 2004-05 regular-season championship. In addition, the USHL honored him with the 2005 USHL Player of the Year and Goaltender of the Year awards.

Lerg also earned All-USHL First Team honors, was named to the 2005 Prospects/All-Star Game and led the league in wins and goals against average (2.16). He was named Itech/Goalies World Goalie of the Month in both November and February and Player of the Week on Sept. 29. In addition, Lerg boasted six shutouts and a .916 save percentage in 52 games and was voted the Most Valuable Player of the Lancer team.

In his rookie season (2003-04), Lerg was named to the All-USHL Second Team and the USHL All-Rookie Team and received Player of the Week honors twice as he recorded 24 wins in 35 games with four shutouts and a 2.20 GAA. Prior to joining the Lancers, he played for the HoneyBaked organization in Michigan.

Lerg signed a National Letter of Intent with Michigan State University of the Central Collegiate Hockey Association last fall and will join the Spartans for the 2005-06 season.

He is the son of Ken and Jane Lerg.

The recipient of the Dave Peterson Goalie of the Year Award is chosen from the pool of goaltenders that annually attends the USA Hockey National Goaltenders Camp and the USA Hockey Select 16 and Select 17 Festivals.

The USA Hockey Junior Player of the Year Award is presented annually to the most outstanding American-born player in junior hockey. Chosen by a blue-ribbon panel of junior coaches and administrators, criteria for the award also includes having played for a U.S.-based junior team.

Mantha hired to run Spitfires

Former Saginaw Spirit head coach and general manager Moe Mantha has been hired to fill the same dual position with the Windsor Spitfires.

Mantha was introduced at a press conference at Windsor Arena this morning.

Last summer, Mantha was named head coach of the rejuvenated World Hockey Association's Detroit Gladiators, but the WHA never got off the ground. He coached the Spirit the latter half of the 2003-2004 season and also has experience with the London Knights and the U.S. National Team Development Program.

Mantha has also spent time as a head coach in the American Hockey League and East Coast Hockey League and over 650 games played in the National Hockey League.

“We look forward to having Moe Mantha guide the Spitfires," Windsor president and owner Steve Riolo said. "I believe that we have the right person to build a very competitive program for our organization and the Spitfires fans. He offers a wealth of experience from all different levels of hockey.”

Mantha is married to wife Kathy and they have three children, Ashley (19), Devin (16) and Brody (12).

Michigan teams participate in CSHL Draft

The five Michigan teams in the Junior B Central States Hockey League have released their draft lists from Sunday's CSHL draft.

All lists are in alphabetical order.

FLINT JR. GENERALS
David Adams, Commerce, Livonia Midgets
Reid Allison, Flint, Compuware Midgets
Antony Bain, Pinckney, Livonia Midgets
Adam Bolton, Metamora, Lapeer HS
Josh Brown, Grand Blanc, Flint Powers HS
Gorman Casey, Rochester, Minn., Rochester High School
Mike Crowder, Flint, Flint Powers HS
Anthony Francis, Grand Blanc, Livonia Midgets
Joshua Jean, Saginaw, Flint Midgets
Charles Margosian, Sterling Heights, Lakeland Midgets
Blake Miller, Hancock, Hancock HS
Christopher Noonan, Portage, West Michigan Warriors
Nick Podgorski, Metamora, Lapeer HS
Peter Radecki, Hancock, Hancock HS
Bruce Simms, Montrose, Flint Powers HS
Ben Warda, Oxford, Compuware Midgets
Nick Williams, Davison, Davison HS
Randy Wills, Davison, Flint Kearsley HS

GRAND RAPIDS JR. OWLS
Joe Battaglia, Joliet, Ill.,Chicago Flames AAA
Brandon Dault, Mattawan, Mattawan HS
Clayton Gallup, Rockford, West Michigan AAA
Zach Grover, Kentwood, East Kentwood HS
Jonathan Gulch, Temperance, Toledo Chiefs Midget Minor AA
Matt Harris, Okemos, Capitol Center Pride AAA
Joe Hess, Ada, Capital Center Pride AAA
Adam Hull, Kentwood, Southern Ice Lightning AAA
Erik Jansen, Lindenhurst, Ill., Barrington Red Wings AA
Trevor Jewell, Muskegon, Florida Everblades AAA
Max Keagle, Elkhart, Ind., Southern Ice Lightning AAA
Bill Krueger, Pewaukee, Wis., Team Powerade AAA
Steve Mankowske, Green Bay, Wis., Green Bay Gamblers AAA
Tony Martin, Laotto, Ind., Indy Checkers AAA
Kevin Mixon, Ft. Meyers, Fla., Florida Everblades AAA
Tad Norris, Snowmass, Co., Aspen HS
Zach Root, Grand Rapids, Capital Center Pride AAA
Andrew Sobiech, Mooresville, NC, Southern Ice Lightning AAA
David Solway, Green Bay, Wis., Green Bay Gamblers AAA
Shawn Steggles, Kentwood, East Kentwood HS
Kyle Tejchma, Fruitport, Indy Checkers AAA
Derek Thocker, Grand Ledge, Soo Indians AAA
Nolan Tuma, Greenfield, Wis., Wisconsin AAA
Isaac Viau, Cheboygan, Cheboygan HS
Chris Waterstradt, Tulsa, Okl., Tulsa Blues Jr. B
Brett Wysopal, Chicago, Ill., Chicago Chill AAA

METRO JETS
Sal Asaro, St. Clair Shores, St. Clair Shores Midget A
Chad Bazin, Troy, Troy HS
Austin Brown, Bloomfield, Birmingham Unified
Steve Chandonais, St. Clair Shores, St. Clair Shores Unified
Ryan Compeau, Oakland, East Side Falcons
Mike Dohko, Sterling Heights, Belle Tire Midget A
Matt Grassley, Grosse Pointe Woods, St. Clair Shores Midget AA
Chris Harvey, Waterford, Waterford Kettering HS
Robert Howe, Bloomfield, Birmingham Unified
Nick Kenney, Wixom, Walled Lake Western HS
Robert Laing, Waterford, Compuware Midgets
Stephen Luongo, Ann Arbor, Huron HS
Jason Maltese, Shelby, St. Clair Shores Midget AA
Doug Miller, Lake Orion, St. Clair Shores Midget A
Eric Miras, Brighton, Howell HS
Mike Murray, Romeo, HoneyBaked AAA
Darren Narr, Beverly Hills, Birmingham Unified
Steve Parry, Clearwater, Fla., Belle Tire Midget A
Christopher Sarnowski, Fraser, St. Clair Shores Midget A
John Schruga, Shelby Township, Detroit Trackers AAA
Brad Townsend, Davisburg, Lakeland Midget AA
Brett Traub, Shelby, Troy Midget AA
Jon Valantege, Shelby Township, Troy Midget AA

MICHIGAN ICE DOGS
Chris Bartholomew, New Carlisle, Ind., John Adams HS
Colin Brown, Grosse Pt. Woods, North HS
Kenny Cobb, Grosse Ile, Grosse Ile HS
Mike Fogg, Clarkston, Clarkston HS
Dan Koslowski, Livonia, Franklin HS
Dan L'Esperance, Brighton, Brighton HS
Reece McCabe, Canton, Canton HS
Rob McTavish, Northville, Northville HS
Justin Petterle, Allen Park, Cabrini HS
Justin Stadler, Livonia, Churchill HS
Tim Taylor, Southgate, Anderson HS
Justin Tonti, Livonia, Churchill HS
Kevin Vlazny, Ann Arbor, Dexter HS
Shawn Wilson, Riverview, Riverview HS

MOTOR CITY CHIEFS
Jake Butchback, Marysville, Belle Tire AAA
Evan Carpenter, Clawson, Royal Oak Blades
Chris Giebe, Overland Park, Kan., Russell Stover HS
Chad Hammer, Roseville, East Side Falcons
Alex Handley, Clarkston, Clarkston HS
Graham James, Oxford, Detroit Trackers AAA
Jonathon Juliano, Macomb, Belle Tire AAA
Adam Krefski, Lake Orion, Marquette Electricians
Zak Lewis, Colorado Springs, Co., Colorado Rampage
Scott Luther, Southlake, Tex., Alliance Bulldogs
Anthony Martin, South Bend, Ind., Team Indiana
Anthony Oddo, Warren, Compuware AAA
Todd Orlando, Clinton Township, St. Clair Shores Midget AA
Steve Popp, Dearborn Heights, Crestwood HS
Jay Sandy, Napparwe, Ind., Team Indiana
Brett Storm, Livonia, Catholic Central HS
Nick Stroup, Fairhaven, Port Huron AA
Bryan Wallerman, St. Clair Shores, St. Clair Shores HS
Mitch Washer, Leonard, Motor City Chiefs AAA
Tom Whalin, Madison Heights, Royal Oak Blades
Matt Wiegand, Dearborn Heights, St. Clair Shores Midget AA

Spirit ink top three 2005 draft picks

The Saginaw Spirit have signed forwards Zack Torquato, Anthony Soboczynski and Thomas Craig to OHL contracts. Torquato was Saginaw's top pick, third overall, in the May 7 draft while Soboczynski and Craig were selected in the second round.

Torquato, a 15-year-old native of Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, signed last week and has his new head coach excited.

“We feel he’s a great fit for our club and has the character and determination that we hope to see in every Saginaw Spirit draft pick," Bob Mancini said.

Torquato, 6-foot and 185 pounds, played with the Stratford Cullitons Junior B team during the 2004-05 season and had 34 goals and 75 points in 47 games while being named the Midwestern Junior Hockey League's rookie of the year. He was also fourth in league scoring.

“Anthony and Thomas are great additions to our roster," said Mancini on his second-round picks. "They both bring the much needed elements of size, skill, skating and hockey sense to the future of the Saginaw Spirit.”

Soboczynski was chosen 21st overall and is a 15-year-old, 6-foot-1, 185-pound winger from London, Ontario. Craig was chosen 23rd overall. He is a 16-year-old, 6-foot-2, 215-pound forward from St. Louis, Missouri.

All three are expected to attend Spirit training camp this fall.

Michigan players taken in NAHL draft

The Alpena IceDiggers and Traverse City North Stars participated in their first NAHL Entry Draft and each team selected five players during yesterday's conference call.

Alpena took Zach Barron (St. Louis Jr. B), Alex Handley (Clarkston High), Keith Manowske (Green Bay AAA), Tim Okicki (Cleveland Jr. B) and Ian Slater (Madison Capitals AAA).

The North Stars drafted Lucas Dubay (Quad City Jr. B), Kyle Jendra (Chicago Chill AAA), Daniel Lawson (Chicago Chill AAA), Jarrett Rush (Cobourg Cougars - OPJHL) and Mark Thompson (Davison High).

Other state players drafted by NAHL member teams:

Billings - Sam Ectles (Marquette AAA)

Bozeman - Shawn Hunwick (Victory Honda AAA)

Cleveland - Joe Greener (Soo AAA)
Cleveland - Mike Hull (HoneyBaked AAA)
Cleveland - Anthony Schooley (HoneyBaked AAA)

Fairbanks - Toby Brune (Soo AAA)

North Iowa - Shaun Fulton (Belle Tire AAA)
North Iowa - Austin Rugal (Belle Tire AAA)

Springfield (IL) - Brad Reck (Little Caesars AAA)

Springfield (MO) - Oliver Saint-Victor (Detroit Trackers AAA)

Texarkana - Kerry Bence (Belle Tire AAA)
Texarkana - Todd Pococke (HoneyBaked AAA)
Texarkana - Myles Williams (Soo AAA)

Texas - Andrew Rowe (Mona Shores High)

Youngstown - Tony Yearego (Belle Tire AAA)

Black Bears move to Big Bear Arena

After playing their first two seasons in St. Ignace at the Little Bear East Arena, the Northern Michigan Black Bears are moving into the Soo Indians' old digs, the Big Bear Arena in Sault Ste. Marie.

The Black Bears are members of the Northern Ontario Junior Hockey League.

Click here for the Black Bears' Web site.

IceDiggers tender two more players

The Alpena IceDiggers have signed defensemen Evan Carrick and Eric Roman to tenders for the 2005-06 season.

Carrick (5-foot-11 and 185 pounds) is from Belle River, Ontario. This past season, he played for the Sun County (outside Windsor) Panthers major midgets and recorded 15 goals and 35 assists in 45 games. In 2003-04, he played for the Sun County midget minor team and had four goals and 35 assists and was invited to the Ontario Under-17 Camp.

Carrick, born April 22, 1988, is the youngest player protected by the IceDiggers to date.

Roman (6-foot-1, 190 pounds) is from Orchard Lake St. Mary's Prep School. He was team captain of St. Mary's last season and led the Eagles to the 2005 Michigan High School Divison III state championship. He was also invited to participate in the 2005 Prospects Tournament in Toronto.

USHL draft yields state-bred talent

The USHL held their annual entry draft yesterday and several prominent Michigan hockey players were selected by the 11 teams.

Defenseman Chad Morin of the U.S. National Team Development Program, based in Ann Arbor, went to the Clark Cup runner-up Sioux City Musketeers with the eighth pick of the first round. Soo Indians forward Ray Kaunisto went to the Clark Cup champion Cedar Rapids RoughRiders with the tenth pick of the first round. Kaunisto has committed to Northern Michigan for the 2006-2007 season.

Other players with Michigan ties with round and (overall pick):

2 (17) - Ben Ryan, F, Des Moines (Victory Honda AAA)
2 (19) - Frank Grzeszczak, D, Sioux City (HoneyBaked AAA)
2 (20) - Chad Langlais, D, Lincoln (Cranbrook Kingswood H.S.)

3 (25) - Patrick Tiesling, F, Sioux Falls (Marquette Electricians AAA)
3 (30) - Dustin Gazely, F, Sioux City (Compuware AAA)

4 (37) - Jon Madden, F, Indiana (Howell H.S.)
4 (38) - Derek Roehl, F, Lincoln, (Youngstown Phantoms - NAHL)
--Roehl is a Clinton Township native.
4 (40) - Kyle Page, D, Indiana, (Victory Honda AAA)
4 (43) - Scott Wietecha, D, Cedar Rapids (Victory Honda AAA)

6 (59) - Cody Reichard, G, Indiana (Capital Centre Pride AAA)

7 (71) - Michael Guzzo, F, Chicago (Victory Honda AAA)

8 (83) - Andrew Rowe, F, Sioux City (Mona Shores H.S.)

9 (92) - Brian Hogan, G, Lincoln (Catholic Central H.S.)

14 (110) - Matt Jones, F, Sioux City (Soo Indians - NAHL)

15 (119) - Travis Paeth, F, Waterloo (Mona Shores H.S.)
15 (122) - Bobby Reiners, D, Lincoln (Cranbrook Kingswood H.S.)

16 (128) - Tony Yearego, D, Indiana (Belle Tire AAA)

18 (150) - Harrison Niemann, F, Indiana (Catholic Central H.S.)
18 (152) - Anthony Schooley, F, Waterloo (HoneyBaked AAA)
18 (155) - Stephen Balint, F, Lincoln (Chilliwack Chiefs - BCHL)
--Balint is a Grosse Ile native.

20 (172) - Kevin Piepsney, F, Indiana (HoneyBaked AAA)

NAHL commish hypes IceDiggers and North Stars

NAHL commissioner Mike Santos recently chatted with the fine people at HockeyRefs.com and offered his take on the future of the NAHL with a heavy emphasis on the new Michigan teams in Alpena and Traverse City and what may happen in Sault Ste. Marie.

Read the interview here.

Clark Cup Finals featured Michigan natives

Sioux City’s Michigan Connection:
from L-R, Jimmy Spratt, Steven Kampfer,
assistant coach Marty Quarters, Corey Elkins and Jeff Zatkoff
Photo by Robert Meyer

The Cedar Rapids RoughRiders and Sioux City Musketeers went to a deciding Game 5 in the USHL Clark Cup Finals and the RoughRiders prevailed last night with a 4-1 win on home ice.

Sioux City won Game 4 Saturday night at home, 2-1 in overtime after Cedar Rapids took a 4-3 double-overtime win in Sioux City in Game 3. The teams split Games 1 and 2 in Cedar Rapids.

Both teams featured Michigan natives and all but one are college-bound.

For the Muskies, goalies Jimmy Spratt and Jeff Zatkoff are both Chesterfield natives and both will play for CCHA schools this fall. Spratt is off to Bowling Green while Zatkoff will play at Miami-Ohio.

Defenseman Steven Kampfer, a Jackson native, will attend Michigan in the fall of 2006 and forward Corey Elkins, from West Bloomfield, is going to Ohio State this fall.

On the RoughRiders' side of things, forward Justin Abdelkader (Muskegon) will head to Michigan State in a couple months and will be joined in the CCHA by Rochester's Alec Martinez, a defenseman, and West Bloomfield's Billy Loupee, a forward, as both will head to Miami. Another Cedar Rapids player, forward Gary Steffes (Grand Blanc) will head to Miami next fall.

Hulking Cedar Rapids forward Phil Axtell (6-foot-5 1/2, 260 pounds) is on his way to Michigan Tech in 2006 after playing from 2002-2004 with the Marquette Electricians midget major team up north.

Cedar Rapids forward Jon Grabarek is the lone Michigan player (Sterling Heights) not committed to the NCAA next year.

Whalers draft Petrecki, Spirit nab Torquato

In last Saturday's OHL Priority Selection, the Plymouth Whalers and Saginaw Spirit both made a splash in the first round by drafting blue-chip prospects.

The Whalers, at ninth overall, took defenseman Nick Petrecki while six picks earlier, Saginaw nabbed forward Zack Torquato.

Torquato will be in mid-Michigan this fall while Petrecki is reportedly 50-50 at this point as he told the Whalers, and the rest of the OHL, he'll stay home in New York this upcoming season with his Capital District Selects (EJHL) team.

Read about Saginaw's draftees here and Plymouth's here.

Indians end season, franchise with 5-2 win

Tornado repeat as NAHL champions

The Soo Indians closed out their ten-year run in the North American Hockey League with a 5-2 win over the host Bismarck (N.D.) Bobcats in the Gold Cup consolation game Saturday afternoon.

Though maybe a tad bittersweet, it was a win nonetheless.

"I think the guys just decided they were going to take advantage of this opportunity," Soo coach Joe Shawhan told the Bismarck Tribune. "It was nothing fancy, the guys just made good plays. They had good jump and good emotion."

Marty Gurnoe, Kellen Chamblee and Matt Jones scored power-play goals for the Indians and Ryan Ward and Drew Satterley (empty-net) completed the scoring.

Troy Redmann made 33 saves for the win.

"I think we lost a little confidence over the last couple days, but we know we're a pretty good hockey team," Shawhan said. "The guys were disappointed that we couldn't have done better here, but we're fortunate that things worked out this way. It was great to go out on a winning note."

In the Gold Cup championship game Saturday night, the Texas Tornado repeated as national champions with a 6-1 win over the Fargo-Moorhead Jets.

Indians downed by Tornado, 4-1

The final season of the Soo Indians will not have a happy ending after their 4-1 loss to the Texas Tornado on Friday afternoon.

With the loss, the Soo is relegated to the consolation game of the Gold Cup to play Bismarck, 3-0 losers to Fargo-Moorhead in Friday's late game.

Jason Kearney stopped 31 shots and Drew Satterley scored the lone Indians' goal.

Billy Skwarczewski (Macomb Township), Derek Danowski (Warren), Jordan Mowbray and Karl Sellan all tallied for Texas. Goalie Ben Bishop, a Maine recruit, stopped 20 shots to help advance Texas to the Gold Cup championship game.

The Indians' last game will be Saturday afternoon with the championship game slated for that night.

Kearney named NAHL MVP

Taormina honored as Rookie of the Year

Soo Indians goalie Jason Kearney was named the North American Hockey League's Most Valuable Player Thursday night at the Banquet of Champions in Bismarck, North Dakota.

Kearney’s play sparked a turnaround in the fortunes of the Indians after he was acquired from the Texarkana Bandits in November. The Indians stumbled out of the gate with a 2-7-1 mark, but brought it to 7-9-2 thanks to a good performance at the NAHL Showcase against the EJHL.

Kearney, a native of Gibsonia, Penn., posted a 24-8-3 record with a league-leading six shutouts. His 1.82 goals against average led the NAHL and his .922 save percentage trailed only the .923 mark of Bozeman’s Matt Cleveland, who also played 13 fewer games.

Texarkana defenseman Matt Taormina (Washington Township) was named NAHL Rookie of the Year. The 5-foot-10, 183-pounder stepped right into the Bandits lineup and became an impact player for the club.

Taormina was second in scoring among all NAHL defensemen this season and fifth in team scoring with 14 goals and 30 assists for 44 points. He was the only rookie to get an All-Star selection, being named to the second All-Star Team, and he was also selected to the NAHL All-Rookie team.

Texarkana head coach Jon Cooper won top coach honors. Cooper is a former HoneyBaked midget major AAA, Metro Jets Jr. B, Capital Centre Pride (NAHL) and Lansing Catholic Central High coach.

Soo forward R. G. Flath won the NAHL Community Service Award. A four-year member of the Indians, Flath has demonstrated outstanding leadership and citizenship as part of a Soo club that has long been more than just a hockey team, but also a community service organization. On a team that as a whole accumulated over 1,200 hours of community service this season -- an average of over 50 hours per player -- Flath, from Park City, Utah, contributed twice as many hours as the average. The list of his activities is extensive as he participated in four United Way/Soo Indians Benefit Spaghetti Dinners, worked at Sault Hockey Association Tournaments, the United Way Chili Cook-offs, the Halloween Community Hunted Houses, Valentine’s Day activities with local long-term care patients, as well as countless others.

Typical of the Soo captain’s involvement was his work in the Indians March Reading Month activities. Flath single-handedly organized the entire club -- all the members of the Indians organization visited eight elementary schools and over 30 classrooms to emphasize to the children in the community the importance of reading. As part of the program, each classroom was entered into a drawing to win a pizza party and a skate with the team and Flath was responsible for working with local businesses to acquire the donations of the pizza, drinks and ice time. He also volunteered each Tuesday and Thursday mornings for the pre-school “Learn to Skate” program at Pullar Stadium in Sault Ste. Marie.

Tom O’Brien of the Youngstown Phantoms won the Academic Achievment Award. He carried a perfect 4.6 grade point average in all advanced college placement classes. He achieved a 1540 score on his SATs this year and has received an academic scholarship from Notre Dame University.

IceDiggers sign first Alpena player

The Alpena IceDiggers have signed defenseman Erik Peterson for this coming season.

See the story from the Alpena News here.

Soo lambasted by Fargo-Moorhead, 8-2

After their impressive win yesterday over Bismarck, the Soo Indians suffered an 8-2 loss to the Fargo-Moorhead Jets on Wednesday afternoon.

Troy Redmann started in goal and made 17 saves on 21 shots before Jason Kearney played the last 32:20 and allowed four more goals on 13 shots.

Matt Jones (power-play) and Ryan Ward scored the Soo goals.

In Wednesday's late game, Texas beat Bismarck, 4-1.

The Indians play Texas Friday at 4:30 p.m.

Indians open Gold Cup with win

The Soo Indians opened the NAHL Robertson Cup/Gold Cup Finals with a 3-1 win last night against the host Bismarck Bobcats.

Drew Satterley, recent Lake Superior State recruit Marty Gurnoe and Nik Sellers scored for the Soo, who got a 42-save outing from goaltender Jason Kearney.

Dusty Delisle scored Bismarck's goal and Matt Koenig stopped 30 shots for the Bobcats.

In the early game Tuesday, the Fargo-Moorhead Jets beat the defending champion Texas Tornado, 4-1.

The Indians play the Jets today at 4:30 p.m. and Bismarck plays Texas at 8:30 p.m.

North Stars sign three more players

The Traverse City North Stars have signed center Travis Paeth and defenseman Ryan Reid, both of whom were first-team all-state selections this season for Muskegon Mona Shores High School, and defenseman Rich Zobak of the Peoria Mustangs in the Jr. B Central States Hockey League.

Read the rest of the story from the Traverse City Record-Eagle here.

Livonia native Naurato inks with U-M

Brandon Naurato will be one of the older freshman on the Michigan roster this fall, but as one of his future coaches notes, that's what the Wolverines need.

Nauarato, a Livonia native, signed with Michigan during the spring signing period and will start his college career this fall.

"Brandon Naurato has always been known for his scoring ability, and the reason we recruited Brandon to Michigan is because we feel he can bring some offense to our team," Michigan associate head coach Mel Pearson said. "He played for a strong program the last couple years in the Omaha Lancers, who have turned out a number of successful college players, and we expect Brandon to make an impact offensively on our team."

Of the nine incoming recruits, all are 1987 birthdates, with the exception of Tyler Swystun, a 17-year-old from Alberta. Naurato is the lone 20-year-old frosh.

"I think it is important that you have the right mix for your team," added Pearson. "You need the right chemistry and you need a little bit of everything in your recruiting class, and because this class is so large it was important that we have a couple experienced players. Brandon is an older player and should be more ready to contribute right away."

For the Lancers this season in the USHL, Naurato, a 6-foot, 185-pound forward, tallied 15 goals and 10 assists for 25 points and was plus-7 in 49 regular-season games. Naurato will join fellow Lancer and fall 2004 signee Tim Miller (Davisburg) on the Wolverines roster for the 2005-06 campaign.

Michigan will have four Lancer alumni on its roster next season as current defensemen Jason Dest (Fraser) and Tim Cook also played for the Lancers from 2001-2003.

USA takes Game 7, Indians advance

The U.S. Under-17 Team took Game 7 of its NAHL North Division series with the Soo Indians, 4-2 Sunday night, but it was a no-lose situation for the Indians.

Team USA won the series, but the Indians advance to the national tournament in Bismarck, N.D., by virtue of the U.S. team not being eligible to participate past the second round of the playoffs.

The game started nearly three hours late as the Indians had bus problems heading to Ann Arbor. Matt Jones and Jim Pentecost scored for the Soo.

Game story from the Soo Evening News here.

The Indians open the tournament against the host Bismarck Bobcats at 7:30 p.m. Central Time (8:30 p.m. Michigan time) on Tuesday. The other teams in the tournament are the defending champion and South Division champion Texas Tornado and West Division champion Fargo-Moorhead Jets.

In Game 6 last Saturday in Sault Ste. Marie, Brett Bennett stopped all 28 Soo shots he saw last night on the road as the U.S. Under-17 Team defeated the Indians, 2-0, to knot their NAHL North Division final at three games apiece.

Chris Atkinson (power-play) and Bill Sweatt (empty-net) scored for Team USA.

Jason Kearney made 35 saves for the Soo.

Game 6 recap is here.

Caledonia native commits to Robert Morris

The soon-to-be Alpena IceDiggers are proud to announce that veteran Jeremy Barber has committed to play for Robert Morris University beginning this fall.

Barber, a 20-year-old defenseman from Caledonia, appeared in 52 games this season and recorded three goals, eight assists and 54 penalty minutes. During the 2003-04 season, Barber led all IceDiggers defensemen in scoring with four goals and 11 assists in 29 games after being acquired from the Soo Indians through a mid-season trade.

"We are very excited and proud of Jeremy," said IceDiggers GM and head coach Mike Mankowski. "He is a dynamic skater and has worked extremely hard the last twelve months for this opportunity.

"Robert Morris is not only getting a great defenseman, but also a great young man."

Robert Morris University is located in Moon Township, Pennsylvania, outside of Pittsburgh, and is a member of College Hockey America conference. The Colonials just finished their first season as a NCAA Division I varsity program by recording a 4-14-2 record in the CHA and 8-21-4 record overall.

NAHL names All-Star and All-Rookie Teams

Players with Michigan ties among the award winners

The North American Hockey League today announced its First and Second All-Star Teams and the All-Rookie Team for the 2004-05 season.

Goalie Jason Kearney of the Soo Indians was named to the First Team after posting a 1.82 goals-against average, which led the NAHL, and a .922 save percentage that ranked second. He is a nominee for the USA Hockey Junior Player of the Year as well.

Texarkana Bandits' blueliner Matt Taormina, from Washington Township, tied for second in scoring among all defensemen with 44 points and led the league in shorthanded goals with five. He was named to the Second Team and All-Rookie Team.

Shelby Township native Rob Rassey tied for second in the league with 43 assists, was fifth in league scoring and led the Youngstown Phantoms with 72 points.

Soo forward Ray Kaunisto was second on his hometown team in scoring with 20 goals and 20 assists and made the All-Rookie Team.

Individual NAHL award winners (Most Valuable Player, Rookie of the Year, Coach of the Year, Community Service Award and Academic Achievement Award) will be announced on Thursday, April 28, at the Banquet of Champions during the NAHL Robertson Cup/USA Hockey Gold Cup Championships in Bismarck, North Dakota.

Indians up 3-2 after OT win Thursday

Ray Kaunisto's second goal of the game, 3:49 into overtime, gave the Soo Indians a 5-4 win and a 3-2 lead in their North Division final with the U.S. Under-17 Team in Ann Arbor last night.

Nik Sellers had tied the game with eight seconds left in the third period after Joe Beaudry made it 4-3 at 17:49 of the third period with his second goal of the game.

Troy Redmann made 29 saves in net for the win while at the other end, Brett Bennett stopped 36 for Team USA.

Zac MacVoy (incoming Michigan recruit), Blake Geoffrion, Trent Palm and Rhett Rakhshani scored for the Under-17 Team.

Game 6 is tomorrow night in Sault Ste. Marie. If Game 7 is needed, it will be Sunday night back at the Ann Arbor Ice Cube.

Alpena gets NAHL team for this fall

It's official - the Toledo IceDiggers are moving to Alpena.

In a press conference held at the Northern Lights Arena last Saturday night, Mike Mankowski, head coach and general manager of the IceDiggers, the team's owners, and Norm Sommerfeld, manager of Northern Lights Arena, made the announcement that the North American Hockey League unanimously approved moving the team to Alpena and an agreement has been signed with the rink.

The team will be re-named the Alpena IceDiggers.

"It's been a long three to four weeks working out the final details," Mankowski said. "Obviously, this is an exciting time for us and the Alpena community. We're excited to go to a community where we're wanted and appreciated. Norm has done a tremendous amount of work to get this done and our owners have done a tremendous amount of work to get this done. The Northern Lights Arena and the IceDiggers see this as a great opportunity - a win-win situation."

The IceDiggers are signed to a one-year contract with two one-year options.

"First off, we're glad it's over," Sommerfeld said. "There have been a lot of revisions to make it happen. There hasn't been any one sticking point, but we've been going back and forth. This is huge for us economically and for the community. This is going to bring $70-80,000 in revenue to the rink. There are a lot of expenses, but the revenue outweighs the expenses."

The NAHL playoffs are in full swing and although the IceDiggers aren't in the postseason things aren't going to slow down for long.

"April and May are big recruiting months," Mankowski said. "In June and July are open tryouts."

The IceDiggers will be holding their invitational camp in Alpena July 31-Aug. 2. Rookies will report on Aug. 14 and veterans on Aug. 21. Mankowski said the IceDiggers are holding open camps in Toledo and Philadelphia and there are plans to hold an open camp in Alpena in late July.

ICEDIGGERS TENDER THREE FOR '05-06
Goalie Phil Greer, center Andrew Wilcox and left wing Darin Holland have all signed with Alpena for this coming fall.

Wilcox and Holland were teammates this past season with the Rochester (Minn.) Century High team while Greer tended goal for for Kimball Union (Mass.) Academy in the New England Prep League where he played 897 minutes posting a 3.01 goals-against average and a .900 save percentage.

Kvapil named to OHL All-Rookie Team

Saginaw Spirit forward Marek Kvapil is the first runner-up for the OHL Rookie of the Year honors, earning a spot on the league's All-Rookie squad for 2004-05.

Kvapil was the OHL Rookie of the Month in November and January. He had 25 goals and 37 assists in just 53 games with the Spirit and also represented Saginaw during the World Junior Tournament on the Czech Republic squad and earned a bronze medal.

The 20-year-old native of Prague was the Spirit's selection in the 2004 Canadian Hockey League European Draft.

Sudbury Wolves forward Benoit Pouliot won Rookie of the Year honors.

2004-05 OHL All-Rookie Teams

First Team
Centre - Justin Azevedo, Kitchener (59)
Left Wing - Benoit Pouliot, Sudbury (93)
Right Wing - Marek Kvapil, Saginaw (78)
Defence - Michael Vernace, Brampton (67)
Defence - Andrej Sekera, Owen Sound (43)
Goal - Daren Machesney, Brampton (67)

Second Team
Centre - Jordan Staal, Peterborough (55)
Left Wing - Mike Duco, Kitchener (33)
Right Wing - Matt D'Agostini, Guelph (51)
Defence - Bob Sanguinetti, Owen Sound (40)
Defence - Ben Shutron, Kingston (37)
Goal - Kyle Gajewski, Sault Ste. Marie (53)

Voting points in brackets

Martinez, Zatkoff commit to Miami-Ohio

Miami University signed two Michigan natives to play for the RedHawks, announced last week.

Defenseman Alec Martinez (Rochester) and goaltender Jeff Zatkoff (Chesterfield) will call Oxford, Ohio, home this fall. Miami also signed five student-athletes in the fall.

Alec Martinez
D 6-1 190 7/26/87
Rochester, Mich.
Cedar Rapids Roughriders - United States Hockey League
2004-05 Statistics: 58 games 10-11-22, +16, 30 PIMS.
Coach Enrico Blasi's Comments: "Alec is a tremendous skater and is extremely efficient offensively while also providing a strong presence in the defensive zone."

Jeff Zatkoff
G 6-2 150 6/9/87
Chesterfield, Mich.
Sioux City Musketeers - United States Hockey League
Statistics: 24 games 2.55 GAA, .914 save percentage.
Coach's Comments: "Jeff is a great young goaltender with a lot of upside. He plays his size well and is very athletic."

RedHawks press release here.

Indians rally to tie series with USA

Down 2-0 in their NAHL North Division series with the U.S. Under-17 Team, the Soo Indians scored back-to-back wins last weekend on home ice to knot the series at 2-all.

Friday night, Matt Buckley's goal 1:45 into the third period stood as the game-winner and made Troy Redmann's 27 saves hold up in the 3-2 win. Ricky Akkerman and Marty Gurnoe also scored for the Soo.

Saturday, Redmann pitched a 21-save shutout as the Indians got three goals in the third period for a 3-0 victory. Buckley, Ray Kaunisto and Joe Beaudry tallied for the Indians.

Game 5 is Thursday night at the Ann Arbor Ice Cube with Game 6 Saturday in Sault Ste. Marie. If a deciding seventh game is needed, it will go Sunday in Ann Arbor.

North Stars sign first three players

The Traverse City North Stars, who will play in the NAHL this fall, announced their first three player signings Tuesday. Centers Patrick Nagorsen and Ryan Bond and winger Tommy Higgins will join the North Stars for their inaugural season.

Read the story from the Traverse City Record-Eagle here.

Indians in 2-0 hole to Team USA

The U.S. Under-17 Team and goalie Brett Bennett pitched a 2-0 shutout over the Soo Indians last night in Ann Arbor to take a 2-0 lead in their best-of-seven NAHL North Division final.

Chris Summers (Ypsilanti) and Patrick Kane scored for Team USA.

Jason Kearney made 27 saves in the Soo net. Bennett finished with 16 saves.

Games 3 and 4 go Saturday and Sunday in Sault Ste. Marie.

Michigan natives take USHL honors

Omaha goaltender Jeff Lerg, who set a new USHL record for wins in a single season by a goaltender while helping the Lancers to a share of the regular season championship and the Anderson Cup, was honored as the USHL Player of the Year and USHL Goaltender of the Year.

Lerg, from Livonia, also earned All-USHL First Team honors, named to the 2005 Prospects / All-Star Game and led the league in wins (36) and a goals-against average (2.16). He was named Itech/Goalies World Goalie of the Month twice (Nov. '04, Feb. '05) and Player of the Week on Sept. 29, 2004.

In his rookie season, Lerg was named to the All-USHL Second Team and the USHL All-Rookie Team.

The 2004-05 CCM Forward of the Year Award was earned by the league-leading scorer in Dan Riedel of the Lincoln Stars. Riedel, a Rochester Hills native, also earned a spot on the 2004-05 All-USHL First Team and tallied 30 goals and 51 assists for 81 points. He was selected as the Player of the Week (Feb. 14) and named to the 2005 Prospects/All-Star Game.

Jackson native and Sioux City Musketeers' defenseman Steven Kampfer was also named to the USHL All-Rookie Team.

Indians drop Game 1 to Team USA

The Soo Indians are in a 1-0 hole after losing 5-4 in Game 1 of their NAHL North Division finals to the U.S. Under-17 Team last night in Ann Arbor.

Game 2 is tonight in Ann Arbor.

Jim Pentecost scored twice and Joey Bacon and R.G. Flath netted the others for the Indians. Jason Kearney started and suffered the loss in net, but did make 14 saves on 18 shots in the first two periods. Troy Redmann played the other 18:54 and stopped 10 of 11 shots.

Spirit and Whalers represented at Under-18's

The Saginaw Spirit and Plymouth Whalers will be well represented at the 2005 IIHF World Under-18 Hockey Championship. Spirit defenseman Patrick McNeill and forward Tom Pyatt have both earned spots on Team Canada. Plymouth forwards Dan Collins (United States) and James Neal (Canada) were also named to their respective teams.

“This is a great honor for Patrick and Tom and recognition for their hard work and talent,” Saginaw head coach and general manager Bob Mancini said. “The Spirit wish them and their teammates well.”

McNeill says he’s looking forward to the chance to bring home some hardware.

“We won gold last summer,” McNeill said. “So it’s a great chance to repeat. Personally, I look forward to getting back on the ice. It’s a great chance to play with very talented players and test yourself against the best players of your age in the world.”

“We’re very happy for Dan and James,” said Plymouth head coach and GM Mike Vellucci. “Both are deserving of this honor. They’ve worked very hard over their two seasons here and are considered among the top players in their age group. It’s a thrill for anyone to represent their country in international competition. I’m sure playing in this tournament will be a boost in their development as players and citizens.”

UPDATE: McNeill fell awkwardly during practice today and dislocated his shoulder and will be unable to participate.

The tournament takes place in in Ceske Budejovice, Czech Republic, from April 14-24.

Indians sweep away Phantoms in OT

The Youngstown Phantoms jumped out to a 3-0 lead Wednesday night over the Soo Indians, but it was the Indians who rallied and won, 4-3, in overtime on a goal by Jim Pentecost.

The Indians will now play the U.S. National Under-18 Team in the North Division finals. Team USA swept the Fairbanks Ice Dogs in their semi-final series.

Steven Kaunisto, R.G. Flath and Matt Jones scored the other Soo goals. Jones' tied the game at 3-all five minutes into the third period and then Pentecost won it 8:49 into the fourth period.

Jason Kearney earned the win in the Indians' net making 28 saves.

The Soo-USA series will begin this weekend in Ann Arbor.

Whalers hand out year-end awards

The Ontario Hockey League's Plymouth Whalers officially closed out the 2004-05 season with a season-ending awards banquet held April 5 at Ginopolis on the Ice Restaurant at the Compuware Sports Arena.

The following players received awards:

REGULAR SEASON MOST VALUABLE PLAYER – Goaltender Ryan Nie, who posted a 2.56 goals against average, 3 shutouts and a .914 save percentage in 57 games.

REGULAR SEASON SCORING LEADER - Center John Mitchell, who scored 25 goals with 50 assists for 75 points in 63 games. Mitchell is the franchise career leader with 258 regular season games played and is seventh on the Whalers all-time scoring list with 80 goals and 150 assists for 230 points.

BEST DEFENSEMAN - Mike Knight, who had 8 goals with 40 assists for 48 points in 64 games.

SCHOLAR ATHLETE – Veteran left wing-center Tim Sestito, who attended Schoolcraft Community College full-time this season while playing and maintained a GPA greater than 3.0.

ROOKIE OF THE YEAR – Left wing-center James Neal, who scored 18 goals with 26 assists for 44 points in 67 games.

MOST IMPROVED PLAYER - Right wing Dan Collins, who scored 25 goals with 21 assists for 46 points in 68 games.

LABATT'S BLUE COLLAR PLAYER of THE YEAR – Rookie Cory Tanaka, who scored 10 goals with 11 assists for 21 points in 67 games.

ALICE IAFRATE AWARD (Overage Player of the Year) - Tim Sestito, who scored a career-high 14 goals with 18 assists for 32 points in 67 games.

WHALERS' BOOSTER CLUB PLAYER of the YEAR: Tim Sestito.

WHALERS' BOOSTER CLUB GRINDER of the YEAR: Cory Tanaka.

WHALERS' BOOSTER CLUB SCHOLASTIC PLAYER of the YEAR: John Vigilante.

MOVING UP: With the Whalers' season completed, Sestito, Mitchell, Jonas Fiedler and Knight are all making their pro debuts this spring. Sestito signed the Bridgeport Sound Tigers of the American Hockey League and Mitchell with the St. John's Maple Leafs of the AHL. Both played last weekend with Sestito scoring a goal in two games, while Mitchell was scoreless in one game. Fiedler will make his professional debut this weekend with the Florida Everblades of the East Coast Hockey League, while Knight signed with the Greenville Grrrowl of the ECHL.

Indians up 2-0 on Phantoms

The Soo Indians won their first two games against the Youngstown Phantoms in their NAHL North Division semi-final series last weekend and can sweep the series with a win in Youngstown tomorrow night.

Friday night, Joe Beaudry had a goal and two assists and Ricky Akkerman, Jim Pentecost, Tommi Maata and Nik Sellers also scored in the 5-2 win in Sault Ste. Marie. Goalie Jason Kearney made just 17 saves.

Ray Kaunisto was the hero Saturday night as his goal 9:24 into overtime gave the Indians a 4-3 win. Tiger Marcotte, Sellers and Kellen Chamblee, whose short-handed goal at 13:39 of the second period tied the game, scored the others. Kearney stopped 36 shots for the victory.

Game 3 is Wednesday night at Youngstown.

Whalers swept by Owen Sound

The season ended last night for the Plymouth Whalers as the Owen Sound Attack swept the Whalers in a first-round playoff series, winning 7-2 in Game 4.

James Neal and Jonas Fiedler, in his last OHL game, scored for Plymouth and goalie Ryan Nie made 33 saves.

Owen Sound goalie Mike Brown needed to stop just 13 shots for the win.

Brad Richardson scored two goals and an assist and Bobby Ryan, Patrick Jarrett, Robin Big Snake, Jeff Kyrzakos and Stefan Ruzicka added goals for the Attack.

The Whalers were outscored 19-3 in the series.