North Stars and Rangers win Saturday

A nice parting shot seems like it takes two hours off the long bus ride home – and after a riding the high of a thrilling 5-4 overtime victory against Wichita Falls on Saturday in the final game of the North American Hockey League Showcase in suburban Minneapolis, the Traverse City North Stars might not even come down until they cross the Mackinaw Bridge.

“Jeez, that sure helps the ride home,” said relieved Stars head coach Scott Gardiner. “It wasn’t our best game – that came in our loss to Santa Fe on Friday – but we showed a lot of character and determination today, and that was great to see.”

Traverse City trailed 3-1 and 4-2 in the third period before Patrick Nagorsen pulled the Stars to within a goal with 5:11 left in the third and Richie Zobak sent the game into overtime on a clutch lamplighter with :41 remaining in regulation. Nagorsen bagged the game-winner on an unassisted effort with 1:08 to go in the extra session.

“I was already starting to think about who our shooters were going to be for the shootout,” Gardiner admitted. “But the way we held together and stormed back like that – that was the best way for us to end it.”

The veritable conga line to the penalty box continued on Saturday in the wake of the NAHL’s crackdown on illegal impediment, affording the teams a combined 21 power play opportunities. Sean Nealon’s seal-breaking goal just 2:10 into the contest came with the Wildcats a man up, while Zobak’s first period retort was also with a man advantage.

Wichita Falls’ Ville Aman had the only goal of the second period, and opened the third with another to put the North Stars in a two-goal hole for the first time with 16:35 to play. After Alex Prough got TC close with an even-strength marker at 10:24 of the third, Adam Cardwell once again gave the Cats a two-goal bulge, setting up the crunch time heroics of Zobak and Nagorsen.

Jonathan Juliano, the team’s leading scorer – and table-setter – drew his fifth helper of the season on Zobak’s first goal on Saturday, while Nagorsen, Zach Hitch and Arthur Bidwill were also credited with assists in the come-from-behind triumph. Joe Greener set up Zobak’s game-extender.

“We saw some very good teams this week, and it was a good experience for us overall,” Gardiner surmised. “The South Division has some very god teams, and I thought we acquitted ourselves nicely. We still have plenty of things to work on, but now we have a better idea where we are having seen these teams.”

In other games at the Showcase Saturday...

Marquette beat the Fairbanks Ice Dogs by a 5-2 margin. Jake Saville scored a pair and Nick Kosinski, Mike Macari and Nic Weight added goals as well. Stephen Ritter stopped 25 shots in net for the Rangers.

The St. Louis Bandits beat the Alpena IceDiggers, 6-1. Nolan Craner scored for Alpena and Brandon Stephenson and Shawn Hunwick combined for 43 saves.

Whalers and Spirit both win again

A.J. Jenks’ goal at 2:35 of the third period snapped a 1-1 tie and the Plymouth Whalers went on to defeat the Erie Otters, 3-1, Saturday afternoon in Saginaw.

Plymouth finishes the preseason 5-1-0.

Jenks, Plymouth’s seventh-round draft choice last spring, also assisted on Wes Cunnigham’s insurance goal with 1:14 remaining in the third period.

Plymouth came from behind for the victory after spotting Erie a 1-0 lead after one period of play on Nick Palmieri’s goal at 4:28 of the first period. But the Whalers tied the game at 1-1 at 9:40 of the second period. Joe McCann outworked an Erie defender for the puck on the left wing and scored with a low shot from the lower rim of the left circle that beat Otters’ goaltender Ryan Ludzik.

That set the stage for Jenks’ game-winner and Cunningham’s insurance marker in the third period.

Plymouth outshot Erie, 33-23. Jeremy Smith played the entire game in goal for the Whalers, stopping 22 Erie shots. Ludzik started in goal for Erie, stopping 17-of-18 Plymouth shots. Jeff Dawson replaced Ludzik in the Erie goal midway through the second period and turned aside 8-of-10 Whaler shots.

In the second game of the day and final game of the tournament, the Saginaw Spirit beat Team Mexico, 10-0. Jack Combs, Patrick Asselin, Kevin Tuckey and Tim Priamo each scored twice and T.J. Brodie and Tomas Zaborsky added singles. Chris Chappell and Combs added four assists, Priamo with three and Ryan Berard and Zaborsky contributed two helpers apiece. Goalie Jovica Zelenbaba finished with eight saves for the Spirit.

Whalers and Spirit both win Friday

The Mexican Hockey Tournament got underway at the Dow Event Center on Friday with the Plymouth Whalers and Saginaw Spirit each putting a notch in the win bracket.

Team Mexico and the Whalers kicked off the tournament with the Whalers winning 12-0. Brett Bellemore (2), Vern Cooper (2), Frank Grzesczak, Kaine Geldart, Dan Collins, Andrew Fournier, Steve Ward, Joe McCann, Zack Shepley and Wes Cunningham all scored. McCann, a former Spirit player, added three assists in the game.

The Spirit beat the Erie Otters, 4-1, in the nightcap. Tomas Zaborsky, Patrick Asselin, Tommy Mannino and Tyler Haskins scored to back Ryan Daniels' 26 saves in net.

The tournament resumes Saturday when the Whalers take on the Otters at 4:00 p.m. The tournament will then conclude with the highly-anticipated Mexico vs. Spirit game at 7:11 p.m.

Bellemore photo by Matt Mackinder

All three Michigan NAHL teams lose Friday

It wasn't a good day in Blaine, Minn., Friday for the three Michigan teams at the NAHL Showcase. All three teams suffered defeats heading into today's final day of competition.

The Alpena IceDiggers lost, 5-1, to the three-time defending national champion Texas Tornado. Todd Rudasill scored Alpena's lone goal and Shawn Hunwick took the loss in net making 32 saves. Alpena plays the St. Louis Bandits today at 3:30 p.m.

Traverse City fell to the Santa Fe Roadrunners, 4-3. Jameson Raymond, Brett Englebright and Kory Kaunisto tallied for the North Stars. Goaltender Ryan Donovan stopped 24 shots. Traverse City battles the Wichita Falls Wildcats at 9:00 a.m.

The Alaska Avalanche dropped the Marquette Rangers by an 8-5 margin. Brodie Zuk had two goals and an assist and Nic Weight added two goals. Iiro Junnila scored the other. Matt Brooker allowed all eight goals and took the loss, but still made 22 saves. The Rangers tangle with the Fairbanks Ice Dogs tonight at 6:00 p.m.

Rangers, IceDiggers win; TC downed

The Marquette Rangers and Alpena IceDiggers are both now 2-0 on the season as each team continued their winning ways yesterday at the NAHL Showcase. Traverse City wasn't as fortunate as the North Stars dropped a tight game to Bismarck.

Marquette took a 4-2 victory over the Southern Minnesota Express. The Rangers got goals from four different players in Iiro Junnila, Nic Weight, Nick Kosinski and Neeco Belanger. Goaltender Stephen Ritter stopped 29 shots. Today's game is scheduled for noon against the Alaska Avalanche.

The IceDiggers scored five power-play goals en route to a 7-4 win against the North Iowa Outlaws. Captain Nolan Craner tallied a goal and added three assists while linemates Drew Pierson and Todd Rudasill each chipped in two goals while Rudasill also added an assist. Assistant captain Ben Kitzmiller scored twice and added an assist while rookie backliner Chad Billins recorded three assists. Shawn Hunwick earned the win making 28 saves in net and also added an assist on the Craner goal. Alpena plays the Texas Tornado today at 3:30 p.m.

Traverse City fell to the Bobcats, 4-3. Goaltender Stefan Shively made 36 saves and Jared Mullen, Zach Hitch and captain Patrick Nagorsen scored for the 1-1 North Stars, who play the Santa Fe Roadrunners today at 4:30 p.m.

Trio of Michigan teams win at Showcase

The Alpena IceDiggers, Marquette Rangers and Traverse City North Stars all won their first games yesterday at the NAHL Showcase in Blaine, Minn.

Alpena took a 4-1 victory over the North Iowa Outlaws. Erik Peterson, Todd Rudasill and Justin Stadler each had a goal and an assist while captain Nolan Craner also registered a goal. Shawn Hunwick recorded his first NAHL victory by stopping 28 of the 29 shots he faced. The IceDiggers battle the Alexandria Blizzard tonight at 7:00 p.m.

Marquette beat the Springfield Jr. Blues, 2-0, behind goals from Nick Kosinski and Brodie Zuk. Stephen Ritter earned the shutout in goal with 31 saves. The Rangers play the Southern Minnesota Express tonight at 7:00 p.m.

The North Stars beat the Fargo-Moorhead Jets, 5-3, as goaltender Ryan Donovan stopped 34 shots. Matt Hughes scored a pair and Aaron Pietila, Joe Greener and Travis Hamway also tallied. Traverse City takes on the Bismarck Bobcats today at 2:30 p.m.

Two more Plymouth picks choose NCAA

Two Plymouth Whalers draft picks will not call the OHL home any time soon.

Forwards Trevor Nill and Jonathan Kearns have decided on the college route as Nill, a Compuware midget player, will skate for Michigan State in 2007 and Kearns is off to Army.

Nill was Plymouth's 14th round pick in 2005 and Kearns was taken in the same round in 2003.

North Stars ready for Showcase

There’s nothing wrong with practices and scrimmages, but the Traverse City North Stars are growing a little tired of both.

After more than two weeks of tuning and tweaking, the Stars will finally get a chance to line up across from a genuine North American Hockey League foe on Wednesday, when the puck drops on the NAHL Showcase tournament in suburban Minneapolis.

“We’re ready to jump right in, to hit the ground running,” said North Stars head coach Scott Gardiner. “Guys are ready for something different than practices. You can only do so much before you really need a real game situation to make some evaluations and adjustments, and we’re climbing the walls. Guys are ready for a real game, and so am I.”

The Showcase, which is being played to open the NAHL slate for the first time in the history of the event, will pit Traverse City against four unknown quantities: Fargo-Moorhead, Bismarck, Santa Fe, and Wichita Falls (Tx.). Of the four, only Santa Fe missed out on the 2005-06 postseason.

“By all accounts, these are good teams we drew,” Gardiner added. “We don’t now much about them, but that’s actually a positive. You can truly focus on what you own team needs to do, and not get as caught up in trying to react to their tendencies like you might with more familiar teams.”

The club named centerman Patrick Nagorsen as its captain for 2006-07 on Monday, placing the Orchard Lake St. Mary’s product in a leadership role. Nagorsen says the extra lettering on his sweater is symbolic but important.

“It means a lot to be able to try to lead this group of guys,” said Nagorsen, who led the North Stars in scoring last year with 17 goals and 25 assists over 57 contests. “It doesn’t really change a whole lot – you may have a little bit of a bull’s-eye on your back or guys might look to you for something – but you still go out there every day and work hard whether you’re the captain or on the far end of the bench, and that’s what I’ll still strive toward.”

Jameson Raymond, a rugged defenseman who came over from Bozeman when the Ice Dogs franchise suspended operations this off-season, was named as the Stars’ associate captain.

“He’s a leader,” said Gardiner of Raymond, who helped lead Bozeman to an amazing 48-9-1 mark and spot in the NAHL Robertson Cup championship game in 2005-06. “We could see that right away. He’s rock-solid on defense, and sets an example on and off the ice.”

The Stars will also publicly unveil a host of other additions at forward from the rosters of inactive NAHL clubs on Wednesday, including Travis Hamway, who led Billings in scoring last year with 17 goals and 35 helpers in 51 outings, Aaron Pietila and Joe Greener from the Cleveland Barons, and Matt Hughes, who played alongside Raymond last season in Bozeman.

“We’re excited to get going,” Nagorsen said. “Sure, we don’t know a lot about these teams we’re playing other than they play a style of hockey that might be a little more gritty and grindy. But you go into every game you play from the time you’re a pee wee with the same mindset: you’re out there to win a hockey game, and it doesn’t really matter what the other jersey says.

“We can get tough when we have to play that way, but we can also beat teams with finesse as well.”

Cadillac's Peterson settles in with 'Cats

By Marc Vieau, Cadillac News

CADILLAC - Nate Peterson has been everywhere, man.

He's been to Traverse City.

He's been to North Bay, Ontario, Canada.

He's been to Blind River, Ontario.

His next stop is at least back in the United States - in Bismarck, North Dakota.

Peterson, a 2005 Cadillac High School graduate, is still chasing the goal of playing collegiate hockey somewhere.

Now 19 years of age, Peterson signed with the Bismarck Bobcats of the North American Hockey League over the weekend.

The Bobcats are in the NAHL's West Division, opposite teams like the Traverse City North Stars and Alpena Ice Diggers, which are in the East Division.

The move to Bismarck came through the help of current Cadillac hockey coach Scott Graham, who helped Peterson get a chance.

“Coach Graham knows one of the assistant coaches out there, so he called out there and talked to both coaches for me,” Peterson said. “Then I signed up for an open tryout in Detroit, they liked me and invited me back to Bismarck to try out last weekend. We played in some scrimmages and things like that.”

When the weekend was over, the Bobcats' staff posted a list of who made it and Peterson found his name.

He reports to North Dakota on Aug. 27 for training camp with the season set to begin on Sept. 13.

He takes with him some opened eyes about the business of hockey after bouncing around a bit during the 2005-06 season.

Peterson began the season in Traverse City where he played in just nine games.

From there, he was traded to North Bay of the Northern Ontario Junior Hockey League, where he was on the team for just three weeks before being traded again.

At his next stop - in Blind River, Ont., - Peterson stuck around enough to play in 30 games for the Beavers, scoring three goals and 12 assists.

“Hockey is more than a sport; it's a business, too,” he said.

While in Bismarck, players stay with host families but do pay $250 to cover expenses.

The 2006-07 season is the key one when it comes to Peterson getting a chance to play collegiately - something that's been his goal all along.

He can only play in the NAHL until the age of 20, making this the last season he's eligible to play in the junior league.

“It's a huge year for me to get better if I want to move on,” Peterson said.

“I am just looking for a scholarship and get someone else to pay for college.

“I want to get in lots of ice time and get better.”

He's had contact with Lake Superior State University, Ferris State University and couple smaller schools out east like Salem State, Utica College and Castleton College in Vermont.

Alpena plays NOJHL foe this week

After playing two home games last weekend, the Alpena IceDiggers are preparing to play a home-and-home series against the Soo Thunderbirds of the NOJHL.

Alpena will travel north of the border to Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, tomorrow for a 7:30 p.m. contest and then the same two teams will tangle in Alpena on Friday with a 7:00 p.m. faceoff.

"I would like to see us play for the entire 60 minutes," Alpena coach-GM Kenny Miller said. "I felt once we got the lead last weekend, we sat back and we know in order to win in the NAHL you cannot do that. We also need to capitalize on our scoring opportunities more. We should have scored more goals than we did last weekend."

These two games will conclude the exhibition schedule for the IceDiggers before they head to Blaine, Minn., for the NAHL Showcase starting next Wednesday.

The IceDiggers will once again be without Korey O'Brien, Tyler Coe and Ryan King for the third consecutive game.

"Trainer Brad Nash has done a great job with these guys to make sure they are healthy for the Blaine trip," added Miller. "Brad and I want to make sure they are 100 percent for the regular season opener, so we have options when I fill out the lineup card for the North Iowa game (on Sept. 13)."

Whalers go to 2-0 in preseason

Joe Gaynor’s goal at 4:57 of the third period snapped a 2-2 tie and the Plymouth Whalers went on to defeat the Windsor Spitfires, 4-2, in an OHL preseason game at Windsor Arena on Monday afternoon.

Plymouth is now 2-0 in the preseason; Windsor is 0-2.

Jared Boll, Tom Sestito and Andrew Fournier (empty net) also scored for the Whalers.

Windsor outshot Plymouth, 29-23. Whalers' goaltender Jeremy Smith started and stopped 14 shots in 30 minutes of work. Justin Garay stopped all 13 Windsor shots he faced in relief.

The Whalers are off until Friday night when they play in Sarnia against the Sting. Plymouth’s next preseason home game is Saturday at 2:00 p.m. at the Compuware Sports Arena against Sarnia.

WHALERS IN NHL CAMPS: John Armstrong (Calgary), James Neal (Dallas), Dan Collins (Florida), Evan Brophey (Chicago), Steve Ward (Toronto), Michal Neuvirth (Washington) and Boll and Sestito (Columbus) will be leaving Plymouth for their NHL training camps by Wednesday. Ryan McGinnis is already with Los Angeles.

Spirit cut roster down to 27

The 2006 Saginaw Spirit training camp ended Sunday with a 5-3 victory by Team White in the annual Blue-White game. With the camp concluding, the Spirit head into preseason play with a roster of 27 players -- 15 forwards, nine defensemen and three goalies. A total of 16 players have been carried over from the 2005-2006 squad.

Forwards:
Patrick Asselin
Ryan Berard
Chris Chappell
Andrew Clouthier
Jack Combs
Tom Craig
Ryan Garlock
Tyler Haskins
Jamie Klie
Ryan McDonough
Jan Mursak
Tim Priamo
Tom Pyatt
Zack Torquato
Tomas Zaborsky

Defensemen:
Christopher Breen
T.J. Brodie
Matt Corrente
Nick Crawford
Scott Fletcher
Tommy Mannino
Mitch Maunu
Patrick McNeill
Garrett Sinfield

Goalies:
Ryan Daniels
Scott Zacharias
Jovica Zelenbaba

Camp joins Spirit coaching staff

The Saginaw Spirit has added Shawn Camp to the team's hockey staff.

Camp joins the Spirit as an assistant coach and assistant to the general manager, joining head coach-GM Bob Mancini, associate coach Ian Herbers and assistant coaches Bill Paige and Randy Wilson.

"I am happy to add a coach of Shawn's caliber to our organization," said Mancini. "He will be a great compliment to our staff."

Terms of the contract were not disclosed, nor were any plans to re-organize the Spirit coaching staff.

Camp has been coaching hockey for over 20 years. In 1997, he was an assistant coach of the QMJHL's Hull Olympiques in their quest of the Memorial Cup. In 2002, Camp was an assistant coach with the Memorial Cup-champion Guelph Storm and won the 2004 OHL Championship with the Storm as their head coach.

In 2005, he was the head coach for the Western Conference in the All-Star Classic and the past two years coached the Sarnia Sting.

Camp has coached internationally as well, winning a gold medal as head coach of Canada's National Under-18 team in 2005 and another gold medal as an assistant coach in 2004. He also won a silver medal as head coach at the 2005 Junior World Cup.

"It's a real pleasure to be here working with Bob, Ian and all the staff," said Camp. "We have a very exciting team and are hoping to have a good run this year."

In addition to coaching with the Spirit, Camp also coaches with the Ottawa Senators' Pro Development Camp.

Plymouth topples Windsor, 7-4, Saturday

The Plymouth Whalers scored five goals in the first period to build a 5-1 lead after 20 minutes and never looked back in a 7-4 victory over the Windsor Spitfires Saturday afternoon at the Compuware Sports Arena in the first OHL preseason game for both teams.

John Armstrong (left) led the Plymouth attack with three goals and an assist. Andrew Fournier, Tom Sestito, Leo Jenner and Evan Brophey added single goals for the Whalers. Defenseman Brett Bellemore added two assists and Ryan McGinnis was +3 on the Plymouth blue line.

Michal Neuvirth started in goal for Plymouth and stopped 10 of 11 shots he faced in 29 minutes of work. Kyle Jendra relieved Neuvirth in the second period and stopped 11 shots in 31 minutes.

Plymouth scratches in the game included Chad Beal, Justin Garay, James Neal, Zack Shepley, Jeremy Smith, Chris Terry and Steve Ward.

Plymouth and Windsor meet again Monday afternoon at 2:00 pm at Windsor Arena.

NOTEBOOK: Plymouth cut the following players after Friday afternoon’s practice – draft choices Steven McDonald, Tom Kane, Emyle Morgan, Jordon O’Neill and John Chayka and free agents Josh Nichol and Nick Hanforth.

Photo by Walt Dmoch

IceDiggers complete sweep of Rangers

The Alpena IceDiggers completed a two-game preseason sweep against the Marquette Rangers this afternoon with a 4-2 victory at Northern Lights Arena.

Todd Rudasill again led the charge with a goal and an assist while veteran Ricardo Yesue netted his first of the preseason. Newcomer Kerry Bence scored his first goal in an IceDiggers' uniform, while captain Nolan Craner (pictured) scored for the second time in as many nights.

Rookie Brandon Stephenson started in goal allowing one goal on 16 shots. He was replaced by local goalkeeper Justin Marzean, who made 12 saves on 13 shots.

The IceDiggers will now hit the road for an exhibition game against the Soo Thunderbirds (NOJHL) next Wednesday at 7:30 p.m.

Alpena will then host the Thunderbirds on Friday at 7:00 p.m. at Northern Lights.

Alpena beats Marquette in preseason play

The Alpena IceDiggers played host to the Marquette Rangers in preseason action last night at Northern Lights Arena and came away with a 4-2 victory.

The IceDiggers were lead offensively by Todd Rudasill (left), who scored a goal and added two assists. Zach Barron netted two goals and Nolan Craner also added a goal and an assist.

Shawn Hunwick started the game in goal and allowed two goals on 10 shots. Midway through the second period, Brandon Stephenson entered the game and held the Rangers scoreless, stopping all 13 shots he faced.

Coach Kenny Miller was pleased with the team effort.

"I thought we came out playing hard," Miller said. "And then when we got the lead, we sat back a bit. We talked after the game and we will make sure we continue to get better and compete the entire sixty minutes."

Alpena was whistled for 18 minutes in penalties while Marquette racked up 28 total minutes.

The same two teams return to the ice this afternoon for a 12:30 p.m. faceoff.

Saginaw adds Junior B affiliate

The Leamington Flyers Junior B team, part of the Western (Ontario) Junior Hockey League, have been named the new affiliate team for the Saginaw Spirit.

The Flyers' main objective is to prepare players for a higher level of hockey both on and off the ice. As an affiliate team, the Spirit will have the opportunity to send its prospects to Leamington, just outside Windsor, to continue their development.

A formal announcement will be made prior to Saginaw's annual Blue-White Game on Sunday at 12:30 p.m.

Bence added to IceDiggers' roster

The Alpena IceDiggers announced today they have acquired forward Kerry Bence from the St. Louis Bandits for a 2007 draft pick.

Bence played with the Texarkana Bandits last season before the team moved to St Louis for the upcoming campaign.

The 6-foot, 195-pound St. Clair native will add a strong work ethic and toughness head coach Kenny Miller is looking for.

"Kerry is a great addition to our club," Miller said. "He is a veteran player on a team that already has several veterans with NAHL experience. He will fit in really well with our team and I am very happy to have him with us."

Bence played in 33 games last season netting three goals and 10 points with Texarkana. Bence and his new teammates will play his former club at the NAHL Showcase on Saturday, September 16. He played the 2004-05 season with the Belle Tire major midgets.

"I am really looking forward to playing in Alpena and helping the team," Bence said. "With the guys we have here already I would expect us to have a great season. We have a lot of guys with experience in this locker room. I am excited about this season."

With Bence joining the team, it brings the roster to the maximum 25 players that USA Hockey allows in Tier II junior hockey.

Spirit sign import picks Mursak, Zaborsky

Import forwards Jan Mursak and Tomas Zaborsky have signed their contracts to play for the Saginaw Spirit this season.

Mursak, a right wing, was drafted 33rd overall by the Spirit in the 2006 CHL Import Draft. The 1988-born player from Slovenia was also selected 182nd overall by the Detroit Red Wings in the 2006 NHL Entry Draft.

Zaborsky was drafted with the 36th pick. The 1986-born left wing is a native of Slovakia. He joins Spirit forward Tom Pyatt as a New York Rangers' prospect, being selected by New York 137th overall this past June.

OHL rules allow each team to have two active European players on their roster. Previous European Spirit players include Tomas Csabi, Georgi Misharin, Denis Yachmenev, Marek Kvapil, Michal Birner and Vaclav Meidl.

Armada native Battani inks with Spits

The Windsor Spitfires have signed forward Thomas Battani, the team’s second round pick, 27th overall, in this year’s OHL Priority Selection.

Battani, a native of Armada, played with the Petrolia Jets of the Western (Ontario) Junior B Hockey League, scoring 18 goals and adding 19 assists for 37 points in 41 games played this past season.

"Thomas has shown a willingness to pay the price in front of the opposing net in order to score goals and we expect him to do the same at the OHL level," commented Windsor GM Warren Rychel. "He will be a key part of our lineup and he will get a great chance to contribute to our team right away."

Battani was also the winner of the B.J. Munro Memorial Trophy, which goes to the OHA player selected highest in the OHL draft.

Saginaw signs top pick Crawford

Defenseman Nick Crawford has signed an OHL contract to play for the Saginaw Spirit.

The 1990-born native of Caledon, Ontario was selected by the Spirit in the first round (12th overall) of the 2006 OHL Priority Selection.

Crawford played the 2005-2006 season with the Don Mills Flyers. In 80 games, he notched 10 goals, 44 assists and 64 penalty minutes.

From the OHL website: Nick has been a steady, rock solid defenseman all year. His game is still a stay at home type style, and uses his physical presence on the ice. Nick has played in all the critical stages of Don Mills run in the playoffs. He has shown that he is a heady, hard-to-rattle type player. He plays the game safe and very rarely does he get caught out of position.

Past Spirit first-round picks include Jean-Michel Rizk (5th overall in 2002) Patrick McNeill (1st overall in 2003), Matt Corrente (2nd overall in 2004) and Zack Torquato (3rd overall in 2005).

Alpena starts training camp Monday

The Alpena IceDiggers will open training camp on Monday at 4:30 p.m. at Northern Lights Arena.

Every IceDiggers practice this season will be open to the public.

After a long offseason, the IceDiggers coaching staff and the 25 players that will make up this year's roster are ready for Monday to arrive.

"I am very happy and excited about starting fresh on Monday," Alpena coach-GM Kenny Miller said. "I feel with the group of kids we have coming back and the new guys stepping in we should have a successful season."

The IceDiggers return 14 players from last years squad and every one of them will be counted on heavily by the coaching staff.

"Each guy brings something different to the table and I expect them to carry us all season long," Miller added.

With many returning players, Miller needed to find players not only to blend with the veterans, but to carry the torch in the future for the IceDiggers.

"The new guys will also help with our quest to gain our first playoff appearance since joining the league," said Miller. "I anticipate them to step in right away and also make a difference."

Goaltending should be a strong position for the IceDiggers this season.

"I believe that with the guys we have coming in to play goal we will have a chance to win every night if they are on their game," boasted Miller. "Shawn Hunwick is a small guy who relies on his athletic ability and is very good. Brandon Stephenson is a big kid who was one win away from winning a high school state championship last season and local netminder Justin Marzeen will gain experience playing and practicing at this level everyday."

The rest of the training camp roster includes Todd Rudasill, Brett Kaneshiro, Ben Kitzmiller, Evan West, Ricardo Yesue, Erik Peterson, Zach Barron, Drew Pierson, Chris Hendrickson, Marco Ruggeri, Ryan King, Taylor Doorlag, Justin Stadler, Jimmy McCusker, Austin Seiple, Chad Billins, Artur Kret, Nolan Craner, Korey O'Brien, Logan Toohey, Tyler Coe and Eric Roman.

Fans are encouraged to come to Northern Lights Arena and watch as the IceDiggers start practicing this Monday. Practice time for next week will be Monday thru Friday from 2:30-4:00 p.m.

Soo Indians gearing up for season

The new Soo Indians held their first pow wow recently in the form of an invite camp that drew close to 50 hopefuls from across the USA plus a handful from the Canadian Soo area.

Formerly the Northern Michigan Black Bears, the Soo Indians are now under the ownership of Long Island, N.Y. land developer Charles Perdicaro, who finalized the purchase of the NOJHL franchise from a group of Upper Peninsula investors earlier this month.

Unlike the former owners, Perdicaro has a hockey background that includes being the former owner and general manager of a minor pro team in Florida.

Away from the rink, Perdicaro has assembled a marketing/public relations staff that has been busy doing damage control in the wake of the failed Black Bears’ ownership that did little to make an impression among fans, business people and the media in the Michigan Soo.

Thus, after three years of operation in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula — two in St. Ignace and one in the Soo — the Black Bears are no more, having given way to Perdicaro, who was quick to return to the town’s hockey roots by renaming the franchise the Soo Indians.

The Indians will continue to play their home games at Big Bear Arena and Perdicaro was able to secure Kewadin Casinos as a major corporate sponsor though the new owner acknowledged that his marketing and public relations people “are working hard trying to get fans and the small business community on board.”

Perdicaro has already announced that season tickets for the Indians 24 home games can be purchased at the Big Bear Arena Pro Shop for $100 — the lowest price in the NOJHL.

On ice, coach/general manager Jim Capy, an NOJHL mainstay who’s coached with considerable success over six previous seasons — four with the Soo Thunderbirds and two with the Blind River Beavers — oversaw the weekend camp with associate coach Don Gagnon, goalie coach Dave Murphy and chief scout Jim Yardanoff alongside.

Capy (Ferris State), Gagnon (Lake Superior State) and Murphy (North Dakota) are all former NCAA Division I players and all have Twin Soo hockey roots. In fact, both Capy and Gagnon previously coached AAA midget teams in the Michigan Soo.

The chatty, personable Perdicaro was also in town for the invite camp.

Last weekend’s camp drew an array of talent from throughout the USA with among the more impressive rookie performers being goalie Brennan Poderzay from Minnesota, defenceman Billy Horton and forward Michael Connolly, both from the New York area, and forward Darren Mansfield, a Michigan Soo product.

While an injury kept veteran defenceman Chase Stevens from attending the camp, returning blueliners J.D. King, Dan Klever and Sean Reid all stood out.

Though some of returning forwards had less than standout camps, both Sean Farley and Isaac Viau played with passion and goalie Elliott Hogue got better as the camp progressed.

Two forwards who played for Capy at Blind River last season — Jake Reid and Nick Zilka — had permission to skate at the Indians’ camp, leaving Capy to try to work out a deal with Beavers’ GM Don Lees for the pair.

The Indians will assemble again on Sept. 1 for their main camp and have a pair of exhibition games scheduled with the Traverse City North Stars of the North American Hockey League before opening the NOJHL regular season at home on Fri. Sept. 15.

Many thanks to Randy Russon and Osprey Media.

Spirit gets former Detroit prospect Haskins

Tyler Haskins may get to call Michigan home after all.

Well, at least for one year anyway.

The Saginaw Spirit acquired the one-time Detroit Red Wings' draft pick from the Toronto St. Michael's Majors today for center Dustin Ekelman, as well as a conditional 2007 OHL Priority Selection 14th round pick and a 15th round pick in 2008. The Spirit also have the option to trade first-round Import Draft picks with Toronto next summer.

Haskins captained the Majors last year. He was Detroit's fifth-round pick in 2004, but didn't sign by the June 1 deadline this summer. If he reports to Saginaw, Haskins will be one of the team's three alotted overage (20-year-old) players.

The Madison, Ohio native ended last season with 24 goals and 51 assists in 56 regular-season games. During the 2006 OHL playoffs, he notched a goal and four assists in four games and was selected to play in the 2006 OHL All-Star Game for the Eastern Conference. His five shorthanded goals are also a team record.

Ekelman was Saginaw's fourth-round pick in 2005.

"We wish Dustin Ekelman the best of luck in his career in the OHL and beyond," stated Spirit coach-GM Bob Mancini. "We would also like to welcome Tyler Haskins to the Saginaw Spirit."

Photo by Matt Mackinder

Saginaw prospects in the news

Ryan Garlock and Ian Keserich, two probable, but in the latter's case, not likely Saginaw Spirit players, were in the news recently.

Garlock was quoted in the Timmins Daily Press last Thursday saying he's keeping all options open for the next step in his career.

"I honestly can't tell you because I have no idea," Garlock said. "Saginaw is definitely a strong option."

The 20-year-old played two seasons with the Windsor Spitfires (who acquired him from the Guelph Storm midway in the 2003-2004 season), but the Spitfires on June 1 traded the overage rights to Garlock and defenseman Mitch Maunu, as well as a second-round pick in 2007, to the Spirit in exchange for forward Anthony Soboczynski (Saginaw's second-round pick in 2005) and a 15th-round pick in 2007.

A goaltender who has played the past two seasons at Ohio State, Keserich left Columbus to play for the USHL's Tri-City Storm with the hopes of transferring to another school next fall. Keserich's OHL rights were once held by the Plymouth Whalers, but were transferred to Saginaw in June 2005 for New Hudson native and incoming Notre Dame defenseman Kyle Lawson.

Keserich, 6-foot-2 and 200 pounds, comes to the Storm with numerous accolades throughout his playing career. He was named the top goaltender at the Under-18 Junior World Cup in 2003 and was also a seventh-round draft pick of the Colorado Avalanche in 2004.

Garlock photo by Walt Dmoch

Smith, USA take silver at Hlinka Memorial

The United States Under-18 Select Team lost a hard-fought, 3-0, decision to Canada Saturday in the gold medal game of the 2006 Memorial of Ivan Hlinka. Earning the silver medal and its best finish since 2003, the United States ended the tournament with a 3-1 record after going undefeated in round-robin play.

“Overall, our team left everything on the ice and really showed a lot of courage,” said Team USA head coach Ed Olczyk. “We had some good chances, but we didn’t have the bounce in our step that we had throughout the rest of the tournament and Canada played a really strong game. I couldn’t be more proud of the boys and I’m very grateful to have had this opportunity.”

Brett Sonne gave Canada the early lead with a rebound goal on a two-man advantage at 10:49 of the first period.

Team USA had a scoring opportunity in the opening minutes of the second frame, but after a U.S. shot went wide of Canadian goaltender Trevor Cann during a 4-on-4 situation, Team Canada transitioned to a 2-on-1 odd-man rush. Once in the offensive zone, Tyler Ennis passed across the slot from the left faceoff dot to Sonne, who one-timed his second goal of the evening, and fifth of the tournament, to give Canada a 2-0 lead.

Canada again used special teams to extend its lead in the final period, as Ennis took a drop pass from Brandon Sutter to beat U.S. netminder Jeremy Smith (Brownstown/Plymouth Whalers) at 10:36.

Smith made 27 stops for Team USA, while Cann recorded 20 saves for Canada.

Release courtesy USA Hockey
Smith photo by Walt Dmoch

Marquette adds forward, goalie, defenseman

Forward Matt Tinordi, goalie Matt Brooker and defenseman Iiro Junnila were recently added to the inaugural Marquette Rangers roster.

"Matt Tinordi brings a great work ethic, good hockey sense and a physical element to the Rangers," Rangers' head coach Leigh Mendelson said. "As the season goes on, his offensive skills will emerge."

Tinordi formerly played for the Washington Junior Capitals.

The second part of the goaltending tandem also comes from the Washington Junior Capitals in Brooker.

"Matt Brooker is a young, athletic goaltender with a big upside," noted Mendelson. "He will develop very well and learn quickly as Stephen Ritter's understudy."

While playing for the Washington Jr. Capitals in 2005-2006, both Tinordi and Brooker were coached by Mark Tinordi, a 12-year veteran of the NHL.

As for the first of two import-players expected to be on the roster in Junnila, Mendelson raved about his new Finn.

"Iiro is a physical defenseman who comes from a very good program in Rauma," said Mendelson. "With his size and strength, we are looking forward to his contributions on both sides of the ice."

The 2006-2007 season begins with the Rangers Tailgate Party for the team and public on Aug. 23 at Lakeview Arena starting at 5:00p.m.

Plymouth netminder Smith one win from gold

Plymouth Whalers' second-year goaltender Jeremy Smith is playing for Team USA in the 2006 Under-18 Memorial of Ivan Hlinka Tournament in Piestany, Slovakia and Breclav, Czech Republic and has his team one win from a gold medal.

The U.S. advanced to the gold medal game tomorrow against Canada after defeating host Czech Republic, 4-3, in overtime yesterday. Smith stopped 41 shots in the victory and was named U.S. Player of the Game for the second straight game.

Smith turned aside 36 shots in Team USA's 4-2 victory over Russia on Wednesday and was named U.S. Player of the Game. Smith also stopped 24 shots to backstop the USA victory over Finland in the tournament opener Tuesday.

In all, Smith has saved 101 of 108 shots faced in the tournament for a .935 save percentage.

The Brownstown native was Plymouth's fourth-round pick, 64th overall, in the 2005 OHL Priority Selection out of the Belle Tire '89s. He played in five games last year and went 0-2-0 with a 5.94 goals-against average and a .845 save percentage.

Whalers' draft choices Nick Petrecki and Vincent Lo Verde also are on the U.S. team. Petrecki was Plymouth's first-rounder in 2005 and Lo Verde went in the tenth round. Both have verbally committed to college for 2007 as Petrecki is off to Boston College and Lo Verde will play at Miami.

Photo by Walt Dmoch

Former Whalers' d-man hired by Windsor

The Windsor Spitfires announced yesterday that they have hired former Spitfire and Plymouth Whalers' defenseman Mark Ridout as the team’s new strength and conditioning coach.

Ridout, who has worked as a personal trainer for the past three years after retiring from professional hockey, started the 1997-1998 season with the Whalers before being dealt to Windsor that December in the package deal for defenseman Paul Mara.

"It’s great to have Mark on board," Windsor head coach Bob Boughner said. "We know he will do a great job in ensuring that our players are in the best physical condition possible. Mark’s hockey and fitness background will be a tremendous asset to our club."

Ridout was originally the Whalers' seventh-round selection, 128th overall, in the 1997 OHL Priority Selection.

Plymouth first-rounder Cooper signs

Vern Cooper, the Plymouth Whalers' first-round pick last May, has signed with the club.

Cooper, a 15-year-old center and native of Sudbury, Ontario, was selected by the Whalers 13th overall.

“We’re excited to have Vern in Plymouth,” Plymouth coach-GM Mike Vellucci said. “He’s a dynamic young player that our fans will enjoy watching for a long time.”

“Cooper has the best set of wheels in the draft,” said Plymouth head scout Jim Debenham at the time of Cooper’s selection. “He’s exciting to watch. Cooper’s a player with speed, skill and hands.”

Cooper, who scored 45 goals and 47 assists for 92 points and 50 penalty minutes for the Sudbury Nickel Capitals in 2005-2006, participated in the Whalers’ Rookie Orientation Camp last May and showed some of the skill Vellucci and Debenham were talking about.

The Central Scouting Service gave the following assessment about Cooper:

"Seems like the 'new' game was implemented just for Vern. A speedy player that is entertaining to watch. Has great anticipation and combined with one-step quickness, intercepts many passes, flies down the wing, the defense gets back peddling, the ice opens up from his speed and then his playing skills or scoring abilities become threats very quickly."

The signing of Cooper, seventh-round pick A.J. Jenks (Wolverine Lake), 2005 draftees Kyle Jendra and Frank Grzeszczak and Import selections Michal Neuvirth, a goaltender, and defenseman Jozef Sladok brings young talent to a Whalers roster that won the West Division title last season with a 35-28-1-4 record.

Photo by Walt Dmoch

North Stars open camp with a bang

After just two training camp sessions on Friday, Traverse City North Stars head coach Scott Gardiner can already see a very bright season on the horizon.

The invitation-only camp - comprised of returning North Stars players, draft picks, tenders, free agents, and the best of the best from a summer’s worth of scouting, video review, and tryout camps – is a de facto proving ground for a team trying to build on a 19-win season in its inaugural campaign. With only 25 roster spots and 45 players in camp, it doesn’t take a mathematician to recognize the competitive dynamic at work in the Republic Rink at Centre ICE arena.

“What a start,” beamed Gardiner following Friday’s second on-ice session. “The talent and the skill here is unbelievable – and that’s just the first day. These guys still have some summer rust on their sticks and the nerves factor. I can’t wait to see the scrimmages.”

Veteran defenseman Richie Zobak, who took part in numerous Stars camps a year ago, noticed a very palpable difference 12 months later.

“After just one workout, I can tell,” said Zobak, a Chicago-area native who posted four goals and 15 assists in his rookie season. “It’s crisper, sharper. I think a lot of it has to do with the number of guys out here who have played in this league, who have competed at this level. It shows.”

The numbers support Zobak’s deduction. There are 15 players in camp who finished the 2005-06 season in the North American Hockey League, while two others - defenseman Harrison Niemann (Omaha) and Ray Kaunisto (Cedar Rapids) - plied their trade in the tier-I United States Hockey League. In all, 26 of the hopefuls ended last season in the junior ranks.

There is also a strong Montana flavor to the camp, as four players from defunct franchises have found their way to Centre ICE. Forward Matt Hughes (three goals, three assists in 28 GP)and defenseman Jameson Raymond (5G-5A in 44 games) helped lead Bozeman to the best record in the NAHL and a Robertson Cup Finals berth, while Travis Hamway amassed 17 goals and 35 assists over 51 games to lead Billings in scoring, while John Jacob chipped in with three points in 10 games for the Bulls. Gardiner says that everyone will get a long, hard look.

“It’s tough to say exactly what you’re looking for,” Gardiner explained. “But you can’t take too many of the same kinds of guys. You need a mix of sill, size, grit – and chemistry on and off the ice.”

Forward Mike Sand, who saw action in six games for Traverse City last year before a leg injury ended his season, says that everyone in camp is in the battle.

“It’s a lot more competitive, and there’s a lot more depth here right now,” he said. “And everybody has to make the team. There aren’t any free passes. We all have to go out there and go hard if we want to play here.”

IceDiggers release schedules, preseason roster

The Alpena IceDiggers have released their 2006-2007 schedule and the NAHL team has expanded the regular season to 29 home games and 33 games away from Northern Lights Arena.

The IceDiggers will compete in the North Division against Traverse City, Marquette, USA National Development Program and Mahoning Valley.

"This season will be a test because of the added number of games and I look forward to the challenge of preparing the guys for the entire season," said Alpena head coach Kenny Miller.

All 17 teams will kick off the regular season at the four day NAHL Showcase Sept. 13-16 at the Schwan Super Rink in Blaine, Minnesota. The IceDiggers will take on the North Iowa Outlaws, Alexandria Blizzard, Texas Tornado (three-time defending national champions) and the St. Louis Bandits (formerly the Texarkana Bandits). All of the Showcase games count in the league standings.

The IceDiggers' home season will begin on Friday, Sept. 22 versus the newest NAHL team, the Marquette Rangers at 7:00 p.m. The following night, Alpena will invade Marquette for the Rangers' home opener.

The IceDiggers also have several special dates for the season including a home game versus Traverse City on New Year's Eve and also St. Patrick's Day. The IceDiggers will endure a long road trip when after they host Traverse City on Friday, November 10, they will not return to Northern Lights Arena until Wednesday, December 13, playing ten games on the road during that stretch.

This year's schedule includes four Sunday afternoon games and four Wednesday night games.

"We are very pleased with the schedule and we hope the fans of Alpena will continue their strong support for our team on the Wednesday night games which were necessary due to the increase in the number of games that the league has added," stated Miller.

The IceDiggers last regular season home game will take place on Saturday, March 17, 2007 versus Traverse City.

"Coach Miller has worked extremely hard to select a team with some good players and more importantly good young men who I am sure will represent the community well and will be very competitive throughout the season," said IceDiggers' VP and GM Bob Krafft.

The IceDiggers plan to wear several special event jerseys this season. The IceDiggers are scheduled to wear camouflage jerseys on Friday, November 10, 2006 versus their cross state rival North Stars. And the popular NASCAR jerseys will be worn on Saturday February 3, 2007 when they play host to the Rangers. They will also wear their annual St. Patrick's Day jerseys on Friday, March 17, 2007. All three sets will be auctioned off immediately following each game in the main bleachers.

But before the season starts, the IceDiggers have a preseason slate beginning with a pair of home games at Northern Lights Arena on Friday, Sept. 1 at 7:00 p.m. and on Saturday, Sept. 2 at 12:30 p.m. versus the Rangers.

On Wednesday Sept. 6 at 7:00 p.m. Alpena will travel to Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario to take on the Soo Thunderbirds (NOJHL). On Friday, Sept. 8 the same two teams will tangle in Alpena. Face off is set for 7:00 p.m.

Season ticket holders will be admitted to all home preseason games free of charge. Admission for non-season ticket holders will be $3.00 per person per game.

Alpena also announced the 26 players selected to participate in training camp that starts Monday, August 21.

The level of play was very high during camp and it made for some tough decisions for the coaching staff.

"This was probably the most competitive camp we have had in a few years and we are very happy with the guys we have coming in," Miller said.

Training camp roster
(with last year's team)

FORWARDS
Zach Barron, Alpena
Nolan Craner, Alpena
Taylor Doorlag, Alpena
Artur Kret, Alpena
Erik Peterson, Alpena
Drew Pierson, Alpena
Todd Rudasill, Alpena
Justin Stadler, Alpena
Ricardo Yesue, Alpena
Tyler Coe, Belle Tire AAA
Ryan King, Philadelphia Flyers AAA
Jimmy McCusker, Compuware AAA
Mike Paglino, Little Caesars AAA
Marco Ruggeri, Belle Tire AAA
Austin Seiple, Toledo Cherokee Jr. B

DEFENSE
Chad Billins, Alpena
Chris Hendrickson, Alpena
Ben Kitzmiller, Alpena
Korey O'Brien, Alpena
Eric Roman, Alpena
Brett Kaneshiro, Capital Centre AAA
Logan Toohey, Belle Tire AAA
Evan West, Belle Tire AAA

GOALIES
Shawn Hunwick, Petrolia Jets Jr. B
Brandon Stephenson, Saline High
Justin Marzean, Alpena High

Michigan natives, juniors off to play D-III hockey

Shelby Township native Zeke Costello

While much of the focus this offseason is where certain players will play D-I hockey, a handful of Michigan natives and players who honed their junior skills in the Mitten State have agreed to play D-III.

This list will be updated (last on August 4) as more recruits are released:

F Michael Caprio,
Becker College (Northern Michigan Black Bears, NOJHL)

F John Carter, Detroit,
Trinity College (New Jersey Hitmen, EJHL)

D Jim Ceglarek,
Becker College (Northern Michigan Black Bears, NOJHL)

F Zeke Costello, Shelby Township
Nichols College (Traverse City North Stars, NAHL)

D Luc Du Bay,
Utica College (started season with Traverse City North Stars, NAHL)

F Ross Enmark, Shelby Township,
Curry College (Alpena IceDiggers, NAHL)

F Ryan Howarth, Grand Blanc,
Connecticut College (Syracuse Stars, EJHL)

F Steve Kruszewski, Clawson,
Becker College (Northern Michigan Black Bears, NOJHL)

G Tyler Owens, Detroit,
Fredonia State (Brockville Braves, CJHL)

F Patrick Palmisano, Ann Arbor,
Cortland State (Bay State Breakers, EJHL)

D Jarrett Rush
Manhattanville College (Traverse City North Stars, NAHL)

F Derek Stabile, Sault Ste. Marie,
Becker College (Northern Michigan Black Bears, NOJHL)


NOTEBOOK

--Carter was the very last pick (291st overall) of the 2004 NHL Entry Draft by the Philadelphia Flyers; he did not sign.
--College locations: Connecticut College is in New London, Conn., Trinity College in Hartford, Conn., Curry is in Milton, Mass., Nichols College is in Dudley, Mass., Manhattanville College, Utica College, Fredonia State and Cortland State are in New York State and Becker College is in Worcester, Mass., and will be starting its first year of varsity hockey in the fall.

Rangers announce '06-07 schedule

Following months of planning and preparation, the Marquette Rangers have announced their 2006-07 season game schedule. The schedule is packed with special events, theme nights, contests and a wide array of entertainment.

The Rangers season opens at the North American Hockey League Showcase in Blaine, Minnesota on September 13-16. The Showcase includes all teams in the league, with the Rangers scheduled to play both Alaska-based teams, Southern Minnesota and Springfield (Illinois).

The league is comprised of 17 teams placed in three divisions. The Marquette squad will compete in the North Division along with the Alpena IceDiggers, Traverse City North Stars, U.S. National Development (Under-17) Team, and the Mahoning Valley Phantoms.

The home opener will be held during a break in the Electricians Fall Classic on September 23, as the Rangers host the Alpena IceDiggers at the friendly confines of Lakeview Arena.

In all, the Rangers will play 62 games, with 29 of them at home. Most games are held on Friday and Saturday evenings, with a scattering of Thursday and Sunday games. The final regular-season game will be April 1.

Playoffs will include the top four teams in each division, with the three divisional champions facing off, along with a yet to be determined host team, for the NAHL Robertson Cup Championship in May.

In addition to great hockey, the Rangers will bring a full array of entertainment offerings to each contest. Fans will enjoy Chuck-A-Puck, Kid’s Score Zone, face-painting, apparel giveaways, tailgate parties before each game, post-game celebrations, adult beverages, and Eino and Toivo’s comedic interpretation of the rules of hockey.

The Rangers are currently working with local charities to organize three charity jersey game nights. Local charities will team up with Rangers to design an original jersey representing their cause. The jerseys will be worn by the players during the game and live-auctioned immediately following the conclusion of each game, with all the net proceeds benefiting the charity.

“This is just one of the ways we hope to give back to the fans and community. These select games will be very special as the proceeds will benefit some of the important charity’s that help make the central U.P. a great place to live and play,” said David Saint-Onge, president of the Rangers.

The Hanson Brothers, original Iron Rangers and stars of the classic movie, Slap Shot, will visit Marquette on October 7. Pre-game festivities will honor all former Iron Rangers players, with the current team donning replica Iron Rangers jerseys for use during the game. The jerseys will be auctioned after the game with the net proceeds being donated to the Oakie Brumm Memorial Scholarship Fund.

“We believe this is a fitting tribute to the players and team who were admired by the Marquette community and were lead by a man who truly loved the great game of hockey," said Saint-Onge. “The replica jerseys look fantastic, and the cause is a very worthy one. Plus, with the Hanson’s in the building, the energy and excitement level should be nothing short of spectacular.”

Another early season event will be “Hockey Day in Marquette.” October 14 will see the Rangers host the U.S. National Development (Under 17) Team at 4:00 pm at Lakeview Arena, with the Northern Michigan University-Michigan Tech University game at the Berry Events Center at 7:30 pm. There will be a variety of game day events promoting hockey in the Upper Peninsula.

Some of the other special events include:

November 17 – in honor of the hunting season, “Save a Buck Night”
December 3 – “A Soldiers Christmas” when the Rangers will collect children’s toys, games and clothing to help the families of U.P. soldiers assigned overseas.
December 23 – visits by Santa and his arch-nemesis, the Grinch.
February 11 – special jersey night to support the Pigs-n-Heat charity to raise some extra cash for a truly great cause.
March 17 – St. Patrick’s Day will see a jovial Celtic atmosphere in Lakeview Arena.

For an early glimpse of the Rangers, fans should plan to attend the Rangers tailgate party at Lakeview Arena on August 23, starting at 5:00 pm. The event will include a barbecue, door prizes, and live music. This will also be the first opportunity for fans who secured season ticket reservations to select their seats for the season.

“We are excited to show our fans what we’ve been up to these last few months," Saint-Onge said. "There is a ton of excitement and we promise to give you an experience that will be fun, economical and entertaining."

TC's Oleksy accepts LSSU offer

When the puck drops Friday, opening the Traverse City North Stars’ invite-only weekend camp at Centre ICE, head coach Scott Gardiner will be as excited about who won’t be competing for a roster spot as those who are.

That’s because a pair of North Stars players from the inaugural 2005-06 season are suiting up for NCAA schools this year -- defensemen Steven Oleksy and Jarrett Rush.

Oleksy (pictured) announced on Wednesday that he has accepted a scholarship from Lake Superior State University, while Rush signed with Manhattanville College earlier this summer.

“It’s exciting because that’s our mission: to put kids into college, and it’s happening,” Gardiner said. “And a couple of kids who had offers from schools decided to come back, so we’re glad that our kids are getting a shot at a college education and college hockey, even if it means they have to leave us. We couldn’t be happier for them.”

Oleksy becomes the second North Stars player to land an NCAA Div. I – and the first who has actually seen regular season duty in a TC uniform. Stars tender Kory Kaunisto verbally committed to Northern Michigan earlier this summer in advance of his rookie season in the North American Hockey League. Oleksy seriously considered Wayne State, another Div. I program, but had his heart set on heading to LSSU.

“I’m real excited about it,” said Oleksy, who has three years of collegiate eligibility remaining. “I told their coaches that Lake State is where I dreamed of playing, and to get the chance is just amazing. I have three good buddies who play up there, and I can’t wait to get to work.”

Oleksy led all Traverse City blue-liners with 11 goals and 19 assists in 57 games last season, and finished the year sporting the captain’s ‘C’ on his sweater – and the region imprinted on his heart.

“The whole atmosphere in Traverse City – the coaches, the organization, the fans, the community – it’s the kind of place you can’t wait to get to. The people made it fun to come to the rink, to come to practice or games and go at it hard. I loved being there and I’ll come back whenever I can," said Oleksy.

“Stevie was the heart and soul of our team,” Gardiner explained. “Sure, we want him back, but it’s a win-win situation. While we’d have loved to have him back, we couldn’t be happier for the guy. He’s a quality player and a quality person, and all of Traverse City wishes him well.”

Rush will join an NCAA Div. III school in Manhattanville that advanced all the way to the national quarterfinals before bowing out in double overtime. The New Jersey native will get to play close to home at the Purchase, N.Y. institution, and should see plenty of ice time.

“They lost four defenseman from last season, so there’s a good chance to get to play right away,” said Rush, who had five goals and assisted on eight others in 51 games last year. “That was one of the biggest factors in coming here. Plus, I’m less than three hours from home and 15 miles to the (New York) city. I’m looking forward to the whole experience.”

Gardiner expects that Rush will be a key cog in the Manhattanville defensive rotation.

“Jarrett’s a big, solid stay-at-home guy on the blue line, and at 6-5 he’s got that reach that can really shut down the passing lanes. He should do very well at the next stage of his career.”

Oleksy will be among the 45 players vying for roster spots at this weekend’s invite-only camp, in as much as he won’t be re-joining the team when the regular season convenes in late August, but knows the competition will be hot and heavy.

“You just can’t replicate the competition anywhere else,” Oleksy pointed out. “Spots are on the line and guys know it. You can skate all summer long and not get into a really competitive situation. Coach Gardiner asked me to skate, and I need a hard skate, so I’ll be there.”

Gardiner will be busy evaluating personnel for the North Stars’ upcoming second season over the course of the three-day event, and says it’ll be the best group of prospects he’s ever assembled. Local products Eric O’Hearn (TC Central) and Nate Greenman (TC West) drew invitations, while returning players Mike Sand, Jonathan Juliano, Patrick Nagorsen, Brett Englebright, Sal Ragusa, Richie Zobak, Arthur Bidwill, and goalie Ryan Donovan are also slated to compete. Five of the team’s draft picks, and six tenders – including reigning Michigan Mr. Hockey Zach Hitch – will also battle for roster spots.

“It’s the first camp we’ve ever had where every single guy out there is already fully capable of playing at this level. It should be very competitive and fun to watch.”

North Stars' tender off to NMU in '07

On the other side of Kory Kaunisto’s run as a Traverse City North Stars forward lies a spot in the classrooms of Northern Michigan University.

The Traverse City tender verbally committed to NMU, making him the first North Stars player to land a full-ride NCAA Div. I scholarship – even before the opening puck drops on his rookie campaign in the North American Hockey League.

“It’s great, because that’s why you play junior hockey – for the college scholarship,” said Kaunisto. “You’re out there looking for that opportunity, and to get a shot at it right away – I feel very fortunate.”

Kaunisto, who will take part in the North Stars invitation-only camp this weekend, says that even with a spot on the Wildcats roster seemingly assured, he can’t coast through his year or two in Traverse City.

“I won’t take it (the scholarship) for granted,” explained the 6-foot, 173-pound winger. “I know I still have to work hard if I want to develop as a player and be as successful as I can be at Northern. I’m excited to be going to play in Traverse City, and I can’t wait to get to work.”

Kaunisto played right wing for the Soo Indians of the midget major Midwest Elite Hockey League last season, catching the eye of NMU head coach Walt Kyle with 21 goals and 24 assists in 60 games. He also captured the attention of North Stars head coach Scott Gardiner, who inked Kaunisto to a tender early in the signing period.

“Kory was one of our first tenders, and we were delighted to get him,” Gardiner said. “He’s a player that does all the little things right, and all the big things, too. I think we saw the exact same thing that Northern saw – here is a complete hockey player that we gotta have.”

Photo courtesy of the Traverse City North Stars

Stanley Cup to visit Detroit, CSA tonight

Compuware Chairman and CEO Peter Karmanos, owner of the Carolina Hurricanes and Plymouth Whalers, will bring the Stanley Cup to the Detroit area starting tonight.

The Stanley Cup will alternate between Compuware Headquarters in Detroit, the Compuware Sports Arena in Plymouth and then back to Detroit at The Children’s Center, Karmanos Cancer Institute and Compuware Headquarters next Monday and Tuesday.

“I’m proud to bring the Stanley Cup back to my hometown,” explained Karmanos. “In the time it’s here, I’m going to ensure that Compuware employees and customers have an opportunity to enjoy the trophy, while offering local charities, the public and the media a chance to see the Cup.”

The Stanley Cup will be available for viewing at the Compuware Sports Arena in Plymouth from 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm on Monday, July 17.

Here is the schedule for viewing at the Compuware Sports Arena:

7:00-8:00 p.m. Special Viewing and Photographs for Whalers Season Ticket Holders, Billets, Corporate Sponsors and CSA Employees only.

8:00-10:00 p.m. Viewing and Photographs for Compuware Youth Hockey Teams, Whalers Hockey School Participants, Learn to Skate Program Participants, CSA Customers, Whalers Game Night Ushers, Concessions Associates, Whalers Group Leaders and Friends of Compuware Sports Arena.

Plymouth Whalers President, General Manager and Head Coach Mike Vellucci was part of the very first Compuware Youth team over 30 years ago.

“It is really neat to know that Mr. Karmanos has been a generous builder of hockey in Detroit and the United States for over thirty years,” Vellucci said. “The fact that he wants to give Detroit-area fans a chance to share in the celebration of the Stanley Cup is gratifying to our entire organization.

“In addition, we want to provide our Season Ticket Holders, Corporate Sponsors and Compuware Sports Arena employees a special opportunity to see the Cup and take a keep-sake photograph. Finally, we would like friends of the program to stop by between 8:00-10:00 p.m. Monday night to celebrate with us.”

Karmanos and Compuware have a more than 30-year history of hockey sponsorship, starting at the Youth level in the Detroit area, going to the Ontario Hockey League with Windsor Compuware Spitfires and Plymouth Whalers and then moving on to the National Hockey League in 1994 when Karmanos purchased the Hartford Whalers. The Whalers moved to (North) Carolina in 1997.

Compuware Youth teams and the Whalers have helped produce National Hockey League players Chad LaRose, Justin Williams, James Wisniewski, Pat LaFontaine, Mike Modano, Eric Lindros, Jason Bacashihua, Bryan Berard and Robert Esche, among many others.

Agenda for Stanley Cup Visit

Monday, July 17:
11:00 a.m.: The Stanley Cup arrives at the Compuware atrium for Compuware employee and media event.

Noon – 6:30 p.m: The Stanley Cup is taken to the Compuware cafeteria for employee photos.

7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.: The Stanley Cup relocates to the Compuware Sports Arena in Plymouth.

7:00-8:00 p.m. Special Viewing and Photographs for Whalers Season Ticket Holders, Billets, Corporate Sponsors and CSA Employees only.

8:00-10:00 p.m. Viewing and Photographs for Compuware Youth Hockey Teams, Whalers Hockey School Participants, Learn to Skate Program Participants, CSA Customers, Whalers Game Night Ushers, Concessions Associates, Whalers Group Leaders and Friends of Compuware Sports Arena.


Tuesday, July 18:
1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.: Danialle Karmanos, Founder and Executive Director of Danialle Karmanos’ Work It Out, brings the Stanley Cup to the Children’s Center.

2:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.: The Stanley Cup visits Karmanos Cancer Institute.

4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.: The Stanley Cup returns to the Compuware atrium for public viewing.

7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.: The Stanley Cup relocates to the Hard Rock Café in the Compuware building.

Karmanos photo courtesy Carolina Hurricanes

Clarkston native Velasquez off to RMU

The Green Bay Gamblers have announced that forward J.C. Velasquez has committed to Robert Morris University for this fall.

Velasquez, a 21-year-old native of Clarkston, appeared in 38 games last season, notching three goals and five assists.

Velasquez becomes the 13th Gambler off the 2005-06 squad to commit to a NCAA Division I institution. Others include forwards Sean Backman (Yale), Greg Beller (Yale), Kevin Deeth (Notre Dame), Tyler Lehrke (Bemidji State), Brian Roloff (Vermont), Steve Silva (Northeastern) and Sergio Somma (Ohio State), defensemen Justin Bruan, (UMASS-Amherst), Matt Case (Ferris State), Jeremy Dehner (UMASS-Lowell) and Eric Gryba (Boston University) and goaltender Eddie Neville (Bowling Green).

Marquette announces 19 players for the fall

Lead by five players with Upper Peninsula ties, the Marquette Rangers this morning announced the selection of 19 players for the upcoming season.

During this past weekend, over 60 players from around the country convened on the Berry Events Center on the campus of Northern Michigan University in hopes of earning a roster spot. After seven games, coaches Leigh Mendelson and Randy Enders made decisions on who will don the blue, grey and copper jerseys.

"We were very pleased with the skill and competitive nature of the camp as it progressed through the weekend," said Mendelson. "The talent depth made our decisions difficult, but we are pleased with what we have put together so far."

Two Keweenaw area players, defenseman Ross Rouleau and forward Jacob Hauswirth were selected for the squad. Rouleau was a standout Hancock High School player, while Hauswirth lead the Ojibwa Eagles Midget AAA team in goals last season. Three players from Marquette were also selected, including forwards Nick Kosinski (Cleveland Barons, NAHL) and Neeco Belanger (Chilliwack, British Columbia Hockey League) and defenseman Bret Larson (Mahoning Valley, NAHL). All three players were teammates on the Marquette Electricians Midget AAA and the Marquette Senior High School Redmen squads.

Other expected members of the team include former Providence College goaltender Stephen Ritter, defensemen Nick Condon (Minnesota Ice Hawks Junior B), Jason Cohen (Capital Center Pride Midget AAA), Andy Keough (Wayzata (Minn.) High School) and Todd Graham (Seguin, Ontario Provincial Junior Hockey League) and forwards Luke Bennett (Bozeman Ice Dogs, NAHL), Michael Macari (Dearborn Crestwood High School), Nic Weight (Northland Pines (Wisc.) High School), Chad Johnson (Wisconsin Dells High School), Chris Smith (Surrey, BCHL), Raymond Gillies (Ohio Junior Bluejackets Midget AAA), Jake Saville (Helena, Bighorns, NAHL), Coles Holmes (University (Wisc.) High School), and Dustin Partacz (Neuqua Valley (Ill.) High School).

"Our full roster is not yet confirmed as we expect to carry 23 players during the season," Mendelson said. “We still have a number of decisions to make and some of the young men who came to Marquette this weekend remain in the hunt for spots on the team.

"We have a nice mix of speed and size, as well as a number of experienced players who we will lean on to make an immediate impact in the NAHL. We will be ready to play just about any style of hockey necessary, whether it's a power or finesse game. Our players and the entire Rangers' organization are excited to get training camp started so we can develop the winning combination necessary to compete in the NAHL."

The Rangers will open training camp on August 28, with the season set to begin on September 13 in Blaine, Minn. The home opener is September 23 at Lakeview Arena with the full schedule expected to be announced next week.

Indians release '06-07 home schedule

The Soo Indians have released the home portion of their NOJHL schedule. The Indians will open up the 24-game home portion of their schedule on September 15 and 16 against the North Bay Skyhawks and Abitibi Eskimos. The league will play a balanced schedule with the Indians playing each team eight times.

The home opener versus North Bay will be Soo Indians Alumni Night with all former Indian players gaining free admission.

"We would like to build up a loyal following and there is no better place to start than with the Soo Indians alumni," said Soo coach-GM Jim Capy. "The twin Soo's have many Indian alumni and we are hoping that they will support our program and help us grow."

Soo Indians 2006-07 Home Schedule

September

15 vs North Bay Skyhawks

16 vs Abitibi Eskimos

23 vs Sudbury Jr. Wolves

24 vs Blind River Beavers

30 vs Abitibi Eskimos

October

6 vs Sudbury Jr. Wolves

13 vs Abitibi Eskimos

14 vs Manitoulin Islanders

21 vs Manitoulin Islanders

22 vs Soo Thunderbirds

November

3 vs Sudbury Jr. Wolves

4 vs Soo Thunderbirds

24 vs Abitibi Eskimos

December

13 vs Blind River Beavers

15 vs North Bay Skyhawks

16 vs Sudbury Jr. Wolves

January

19 vs Soo Thunderbirds

21 vs Manitoulin Islanders

31 vs Blind River Beavers

February

9 vs Blind River Beavers

10 vs North Bay Skyhawks

25 vs Soo Thunderbirds

March

9 vs North Bay Skyhawks

10 vs Manitoulin Islanders

All home games will have a 7:00 p.m. start time.

Marquette's final camp now underway

The final tryout camp of the Marquette Rangers is underway today at the Berry Events Center and runs through Sunday. The camp is comprised of approximately 60 players from around the country and is sure to hold viewer's attention with speed, skill and aggressiveness.

In the end, only 23 players will don the inaugural Rangers’ jersey.

Tenders, draft selections, invitees and open camp returnees will convene for the first time this morning. Through a series of games, practices and off-ice evaluations, a majority of the final team will be selected.

One player spectators should watch is defenseman Mike Cenisio, a player returning from the Marquette tryout camp. Cenisio is a native of Finland who started playing hockey when he was eight years old. He played in Finland for two years and Belgium for one before coming to the United States. Living in Pennsylvania, Cenisio has played for the Philadelphia Little Flyers and was league playoff MVP last spring while being ranked fourth in the league among defensemen scoring.

"I've played and trained all my summers with guys who play D-1 (college hockey), so I'm familiar with the high speed I expect to see at camp this weekend," said Cenisio. "I'm excited to play and have a good feeling about it and especially excited about Marquette. I like the fact that it's a small town and friendly, which helps my mom be at ease a bit more."

"Mike Cenisio is intriguing because he has versatility to play both defense and forward," Rangers' head coach Leigh Mendelson said. "He is a good skater with strong puck skills."

Invitee forward, 17-year-old John Grossi from Springfield, Penn., started his hockey career 13 years ago. Grossi is an NAHL veteran, having played for the Billings Bulls last season and like Cenisio, also played for the Philadelphia Little Flyers. He's excited about Marquette based on his research of the area and Marquette’s hockey reputation.

"I am excited to be part of a first-year team," said Grossi. "I want to come out, make the team and contribute to a winning season. I love making fans happy because I really love the game. When fans love the team, it makes you fight harder to keep them happy.

"I love hockey and I'll do anything to play. I'm so excited about the Rangers."

"Grossi is a young player with an offensive upside," added Mendelson. "His skating and skill will allow him to be very competitive in earning a roster spot."

A player close to the hearts of hockey fans in the Marquette area is Neeco Belanger, who started playing hockey at age five in Marquette. Last season, Belanger played in the British Columbia Hockey League for the Chilliwack Chiefs. Prior to that, he played for the Marquette Electricians midget major team, Marquette Senior High School and American Legion bantam teams. Belanger is a highly-respected player among teammates and coaches. He was voted MVP of the MSHS team and while playing for the Electricians, he was the team's Rookie of the Year.

"I have experience at the junior level and that gives me advantage over many others," said Belanger. "I want to stay here to play hockey because it has always been my dream to play in front of my home crowd."

"Neeco Belanger brings valuable junior experience and a fantastic work ethic," Mendelson said. "His value to the team will be measured both on and off the ice."

There will be two cuts over the four-day camp, ensuring close screening and observation by scouts and coaches. Newly-named assistant coach Randy Enders, will join Mendelson this weekend for the evaluation process.

Fans can check out the competition at the Berry Events Center with games today at 1:00 and 5:30 p.m., Friday at 3:00 and 6:30 p.m. and Saturday at 1:00, 4:00 and 7:00 p.m. The camp concludes with Sunday’s All Star Game at 9:00 a.m.

Enders named assistant for Marquette

The Marquette Rangers have named Randy Enders an assistant coach for the upcoming season.

Enders enjoyed a stellar junior and NCAA playing career. Enders was a defenseman with the Sioux City Musketeers for three seasons and his NCAA career included one season for the University of Alaska-Anchorage and three seasons with the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. As team captain his senior year, Enders was named All-NCHA-Honorable Mention and was selected All-WICA-First Team. His team also voted him "Classiest Player," "Mr. Consistent" and "Hardest Worker." Stevens Point team won the NCHA regular season league championship Enders' sophomore year.

Enders began his coaching career as an instructor at the Musketeers Hockey School in Sioux City and served as head instructor at the Winners Edge Development camp in Spooner, Wisc.

In 2003, Enders accepted a teaching position with the Sheboygan (Wisconsin) School District and became the Red Raiders assistant coach in 2004 where he was responsible for defenseman skill development, designing and implementing practice programs and developing game strategies.

"I had the privilege of coaching Randy when he was a player (in Sioux City)," Rangers' head coach Leigh Mendelson said. "His work ethic, attention to detail along with practice and game preparation, is second to none. Randy’s accomplishments as a player and a coach are solid, but his greatest asset is his ability to teach our players how to best prepare to get the most out of their talent. The combination of being a teacher and hockey player is a unique combination and we expect him to help our players excel both on and off the ice."

Stapleton takes OHL job with Otters

Mike Stapleton is returning to his roots to further his coaching career.

Stapleton, who served as an assistant to head coach/GM Scott Gardiner with the Traverse City North Stars during the club’s inaugural 2005-06 season, has agreed to take over as associate coach of the Ontario Hockey League’s Erie (Pa.) Otters. He will continue with the North Stars through the team’s August 4-6 invite-only training camp before heading to Erie.

“I’m grateful for the opportunity I got here in Traverse City,” said Stapleton, who played in the OHL en route to a 15-year NHL career. “From Steve (Fournier) and the ownership group to Scott (Gardiner) and the entire organization, it was a great place to coach. Now, I’m going to try to take that next step in coaching, and I’m looking forward to the challenges.”

The OHL is one of three leagues – along with the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League and the Western Hockey League -- under the umbrella of the Canadian Hockey League. It is classified as major junior hockey, and is generally regarded as the best junior hockey league on the planet. Players receive stipends for their services, but also sacrifice their amateur status. The Erie franchise has been around for over a decade, and was fifth in the OHL in attendance last season at around 4,500 per home date.

Sarnia (Ont.)-born Stapleton was a prolific scorer with the OHL's Cornwall Royals, amassing 104 goals and 258 points over three seasons and 182 games with the franchise.

“It’s a great opportunity for Mike, and we’re happy for him,” Gardiner said. “He played there, and now he can further his coaching career there. We’ll miss him as a coach and a friend, but we also support his decision and wish him nothing but the best in his new position.”

Fournier agreed.

“It’s been great having Mike with us from the beginning. He was an asset on and off the ice, and we would like nothing more than to see him succeed at the next level just as we hope for the same for our players that move on.”

A 15-year National Hockey League veteran, Stapleton played 697 NHL contests for seven different franchises (Chicago, Pittsburgh, Edmonton, Winnipeg/Phoenix, Atlanta, N.Y. Islanders and Vancouver), netting 71 goals and 182 points to go with 342 penalty minutes over that span. Stapleton also played in all or parts of four seasons in European pro leagues, and played 21 games for Team Canada in 1986-87.

Stapleton owned a cottage near Clam Lake before moving to Traverse City on a full-time basis two years ago. He says his wife Laura was instrumental in helping him make the decision to embark upon the transient journey that most coaches take.

“Laura said she and the kids (sons Luke and Nick) were willing to do it,” Stapleton explained. “Of course, we’ll always have ties to Traverse City. We’ve made some great friends here, and they’ll always be great friends no matter where we are.”