Spirit's Goslin named top OHL executive

The Ontario Hockey League today announced that Saginaw Spirit managing partner Craig Goslin is the OHL Executive of the Year for the 2006-07 season.

Goslin, a 46-year-old native of Bay City, is the first repeat winner of this award, having also won the Executive of the Year honours in 2005-06. since Jim Rutherford of the Detroit Jr. Red Wings, who was the successful recipient in 1992-1993 and 1993-1994.

Goslin has been instrumental in the success of the Saginaw Spirit franchise during their first five years of operation, establishing and maintaining an atmosphere of first class, quality sports entertainment.

Goslin joined the Spirit prior to their inaugural season in 2002, as VP of sales, following a distinguished 19-year career with Hilti Corporation. He was named part owner, managing partner and alternate governor of the Spirit, in 2005.

During the season, Goslin and his staff hosted a very successful 2007 OHL All-Star Classic in Saginaw . The two-day event marked the first time in OHL history that the All-Star Classic has left Ontario . Goslin and his business staff organized the first annual “Saginaw Spirit Ice Festival” the weekend prior to the All-Star Classic, partnering with the entire community of mid-Michigan to celebrate and educate fans on OHL hockey in Saginaw. The festival was estimated to bring in over $3 million to the local economy.

Goslin and his staff introduced a new mascot during the 2006-07 regular season, which was named “Steagle-Cobeagle the Eagle” following a campaign by Stephen Colbert from Comedy Central’s “The Colbert Report” who encouraged his international television audience to vote for the name on the Spirit website. People from all parts of the globe were exposed to the Spirit and the entire OHL through this campaign. Stephen Colbert has continued to cover “Steagle-Cobeagle the Eagle” as a regular feature on weekly or bi-weekly basis on “The Colbert Report."

Goslin and his business team were instrumental in generating over $1.5 million in corporate advertising in 2006-07 and sold 2,600 season tickets throughout the season. The Spirit also continued to produce the largest laser system operated in the mid-Michigan community, enhancing the overall game day experience for Spirit fans.

Goslin also created positive relationships with high schools, colleges and universities providing Spirit players with multiple educational opportunities.

Goslin is the chairman of the business development committee for the OHL, which he helped spearhead the creation of in 2005. Under Goslin’s leadership, the committee helps lead the 20 OHL member teams in an effort to encourage communication and cooperation for the purposes of leveraging each member team’s marketing strengths while raising the level of business operations throughout the OHL.

Goslin has spent tireless hours working to improve the business operations and structures of not only the Saginaw Spirit, but the entire OHL.

Spirit introduce skills development school

The Saginaw Spirit has announced the High School Skills Development School.

The school will be held at the Bay County Civic Arena from June 25 to June 29. The cost per student is $292 and is open to students currently attending high school. Deadline to sign-up is May 31.

Students will receive three hours of on-ice instruction and 1 1/2 hours of off-ice instruction per day. The class is designed with the student's development in mind, so the student to instructor ratio is limited to a maximum of 30 students. Emphasis is placed on overall hockey skill development and power skating. The school includes on-ice individual skill video analysis and off-ice fitness training. Plus, students get to participate in a scrimmage every day.

The Saginaw Spirit run several development schools throughout the year; summer sessions are also available for students ages 6-13.

For more information, please visit this link or contact Tory Newberry, Spirit Account Executive, at 989-497-7747.

North Stars open first tryout camp today

More than 60 hockey players will vie for the attention of coaches and scouts this weekend at Centre ICE arena, as the Traverse City North Stars hold the first tryout camp of the off-season, dropping the puck on the 2007 Pre-Draft Camp on Friday.

The camp ushers in the Anthony Palumbo era, as the former Lake Superior State star and TC West coach begins his tenure as general manager in earnest. Palumbo and a staff of coaches and scouts will evaluate the potential candidates in advance of the May 22 North American Hockey League draft. Several players from the 2006-07 roster will be taking part in the camp, as will numerous hopefuls from across the area (TC Central, TC West, etc.) and Midwest.

Goalies check in on Friday morning and will get an afternoon skate before the residual of the skaters report for a pair of evening scrimmage and skill evaluation sessions. After four scrimmages on Saturday, a pair of specially-selected teams will face off in the Blue & White game on Sunday morning as the camp draws to a conclusion.

The complete camp schedule is as follows:

Friday, May 11
11 a.m. – Goalie check-in
Noon-3 p.m. – Goalie skate
4 p.m. – Skater check-in
5:30 p.m. – Full camp assembly in community room
6:30 p.m. – 7:50 p.m. – Teams A & B
8:00 p.m. – 9:20 p.m. – Teams C & D

Saturday, May 12
7:45 a.m. – 9:05 a.m. – Teams A & C
9:15 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. – Teams B & D
10:45 a.m. – 12:45 p.m. – Goalie skate
5 p.m. – 6:20 p.m. – Teams B & C
6:30 p.m. – 7:50 p.m. – Teams A & D

Sunday, May 13
10 a.m. – Noon – Blue & White all-star game

Palumbo named Traverse City general manager

In the late 1980s and early 1990s, Anthony Palumbo helped Lake Superior State rise to national prominence as both a player and coach.

Now Palumbo aims to do the same with the Traverse City North Stars.

The former Lakers star, and most recently the head coach at Traverse City West High School, formally became the general manager of the North Stars on Tuesday, hours after resigning from his post at TC West. Palumbo, who will also spearhead the Stars’ coaching search, says the prospect of playing a role in shaping the futures of the players was a big draw.

“What excited me the most about this was the opportunity to help kids move on to the college level, and that’s the main focus of juniors,” said the Sault Ste. Marie, Ont. native. “I think back on my own college experiences as some of the best years of my life, and to get to be a part of getting kids into their own college years is very appealing to me.”

Palumbo, who starred in the Canadian high school ranks before his four-year playing stint at Lake Superior State, amassed 45 goals and 111 assists over 156 contests with the Lakers, helping the school to an NCAA championship in 1988. His finest statistical campaign was 1988-89 when he poured in 22 goals and assisted on 44 others for the 29-11-6 NCAA tourney qualifiers. During the 1991-92 season, Palumbo was an associate coach for a squad that went 30-9-4 and captured another NCAA crown. He was drafted in the 1989 NHL supplemental draft by the New York Rangers before embarking on a career in finance.

He is presently a commercial loan officer for Huntington Bank in Traverse City.

“Anthony is a longtime friend, but even more importantly, he’s a guy with a lot of hockey knowledge from years of experience,” said Stars' owner Steve Fournier. “And he is in tune with the college hockey community. He has all the credentials you want for that position and then some.”

Palumbo, who inherits a club already faring well in terms of collegiate placement – seven current or former North Stars are in college or have NCAA Division I college commitments (Steven Oleksy, LSSU; Patrick Nagorsen and Travis Paeth, Western Michigan; Eric Elmblad, Michigan; Danny Dries, New Hampshire; Anthony Schooley, Michigan Tech; Kory Kaunisto, Northern Michigan) after just two years – would like to transform the franchise into a collegiate turnstile.

“A lot of the guys I played with and against are now Division I coaches,” Palumbo explained. “We want every kid that walks through the doors of Centre ICE to play for the North Stars to be here to go after the (college) scholarships hard, and that’s the ideal setting for winning in the NAHL and even more importantly, in life.”

Palumbo, who led TC West to 40 wins in the past two seasons and the school’s first-ever Big North Conference hockey title, will begin his player evaluations this week in preparation for the weekend’s tryout camp at Centre ICE arena and the May 22 North American Hockey League entry draft. The camp, which runs from Friday-Sunday, culminates with the invite-only Blue & White Game on Sunday morning at 10 a.m.

Saginaw, Plymouth draft future OHLers Saturday

Both the Saginaw Spirit and Plymouth Whalers participated in Saturday's OHL Priority Selection draft process and each had a late pick in the first round.

Drafting at No. 16, Saginaw selected Whitby Wildcats minor midget center Daniel Pachis. Last season, the 6-foot, 170-pound Pachis (pictured) tallied 55 goals and 91 points in 82 games for the Wildcats. He'll turn 16 on June 5.

SCOUTING REPORT ON PACHIS: A highly skilled player who is most effective and determined when he is in possession of the puck. He is very solid on his feet and possesses a strong stride. Pachis protects the puck very well and competes hard along the walls and in the corners. He is very hard to knock off the puck. He wins the battles in the tough areas and then takes the puck to the net.

In the No. 19 slot, Plymouth chose 5-foot-10, 165-pound Belle Tire defenseman Beau Schmitz. From Howell, Schmitz had verbally committed to Ferris State for two years down the road. This past year with the national champion Belle Tire minor midgets, Schmitz, who turns 16 on May 26, recorded 64 points on 13 goals and 51 assists and also had 167 penalty minutes.

SCOUTING REPORT ON SCHMITZ: An offensive minded defenseman who plays a very high risk, high reward style of game. He is a very good skater - one of the most mobile defensemen in this year’s draft. He has excellent quickness and his first few steps get him up to top speed immediately. Schmitz also possesses very good puck skills and is very effective at moving the puck.

One pick before the Whalers, Kitchener took Honeybaked minor midget defenseman Cam Fowler, a Northville native. Fowler was considered the best defender in the draft, but has reportedly committed to Notre Dame for 2009.

Likewise, at No. 5, Brampton selected center Matt Duchene from the Central Ontario Wolves. Duchene had expressed his intentions in going to Michigan State, perhaps as early as 2008.

SAGINAW PICKS

PLYMOUTH PICKS

Saginaw captain McNeill signs with Capitals

The Washington Capitals announced today that Saginaw Spirit defenseman Patrick McNeill has signed an entry-level contract.

McNeill was drafted by the Capitals in the fourth round, 118th overall, in the 2005 NHL Entry Draft. The Strathroy, Ontario native is expected to sign an amateur tryout agreement with the Hershey Bears, Washington's AHL affiliate, for the remainder of the season.

The terms of the contract were not disclosed.

“We're thrilled for Patrick and his entire family,” stated Spirit president and managing partner Craig Goslin. “We're proud of the fact that his development into an NHLer occurred here in Saginaw. He will be a huge asset to the Capitals and we wish him all the best.”

McNeill, 20, was drafted first overall by the Spirit in the 2003 OHL Priority Selection and served as the Spirit's captain for the 2005-2006 and 2006-2007 seasons.

Washington Press Release

OHL Priority Selection on tap Saturday

The 2007 OHL Priority Selection will take place Saturday at 9:00 a.m.

Steven Stamkos of the Markham Waxers was the first overall pick of the Sarnia Sting in the 2006 OHL Priority Selection. Stamkos racked up 105 goals and 92 assists for 197 points for the Waxers, who won the OHL Cup Minor Midget Showcase Tournament last March. The Oshawa Generals followed up by selecting defenceman Michael Del Zotto of the Waxers. It was the first time in history that the first two picks in the OHL Priority Selection have come from the same team. The Mississauga IceDogs selected defenceman Alex Pietrangelo from the Jr. Canadiens third overall. The Erie Otters selected defenceman Mitch Gaulton from the Toronto Red Wings with the fourth overall pick and the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds rounded out the top five when they selected James Livingston from the York Simcoe Express.

2007 OHL Priority Selection - Order of Selection (First Round)

1. Erie Otters

2. Windsor Spitfires

3. Toronto St. Michael's Majors

4. Peterborough Petes

5. Brampton Battalion

6. Ottawa 67's

7. Sudbury Wolves

8. Owen Sound Attack

9. Kingston Frontenacs

10. Oshawa Generals

11. Guelph Storm

12. Sarnia Sting

13. Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds

14. Belleville Bulls

15. Mississauga IceDogs

16. Saginaw Spirit

17. Barrie Colts

18. Kitchener Rangers

19. Plymouth Whalers

20. London Knights

Jack Ferguson Award History

The "Fergie" is presented annually to the player selected first overall in the Ontario Hockey League Priority Selection. The award recognizes the dedication and contributions made by Jack Ferguson during his 25 year association with the Ontario Hockey League, first as a scout with the Ottawa 67's and followed by his appointment as head of the OHL's Central Scouting Bureau in 1981 as its Director of Central Scouting.

Past Winners of the Jack Ferguson Award:

Year Player Team

1981 Dan Quinn, Belleville

1982 Kirk Muller, Guelph

1983 Trevor Stienburg, Guelph

1984 Dave Moylan, Sudbury

1985 Bryan Fogarty, Kingston

1986 Troy Mallette, S.S. Marie

1987 John Uniac, Sudbury

1988 Drake Berehowsky, Kingston

1989 Eric Lindros, S.S. Marie

1990 Pat Peake, Detroit

1991 Todd Harvey, Detroit

1992 Jeff O'Neill, Guelph

1993 Alyn McCauley, Ottawa

1994 Jeff Brown, Sarnia

1995 Daniel Tkaczuk, Barrie

1996 Rico Fata, London

1997 Charlie Stephens, Toronto

1998 Jay Harrison, Brampton

1999 Jason Spezza, Mississauga

2000 Patrick Jarrett, Mississauga

2001 Patrick O'Sullivan, Mississauga

2002 Robbie Schremp, Mississauga

2003 Patrick McNeill, Saginaw

2004 John Hughes, Belleville

2005 John Tavares, Oshawa

2006 Steven Stamkos, Sarnia

West Bloomfield native chasing grandpa's cup

By Brian McDonough

It's an exhilarating feeling winning a national championship trophy. When that trophy is named after a family member, however, it brings on a whole new level of euphoria.

That's the unique opportunity facing Travis Hamway this week as he and the Fairbanks Ice Dogs battle for the NAHL's Robertson Cup, which is named after Hamway's grandfather, Chuck Robertson.

The Robertson Cup crowns the NAHL's playoff champion, which also represents USA Hockey's Tier II Junior A national champion.

"It's definitely special," said Hamway. "I couldn't end my junior career any better winning my grandpa's Cup."

A pioneer of junior hockey in the NAHL and youth hockey in the state of Michigan, Robertson was the owner of the Paddock Pools Saints when they won a record seven straight NAHL championships from 1976-83.

It wasn't until the beginning of this year when the West Bloomfield native Hamway, now in his second season in the NAHL after spending last year with the Billings Bulls and starting this year with the Traverse City North Stars, knew he was chasing a trophy with roots so close to home. He started to ask questions after reading a story about the Robertson Cup on the Texas Tornado's Web site.

"I finally put two and two together thinking, 'Hey, this could be my grandpa,'" said Hamway, a Wayne State recruit. "I called my mom (Robertson's daughter) and found out that way."

A regular supporter of local youth hockey, Robertson was never short on generosity towards his grandson's teams, among others.

"He's a great guy, always a really giving guy," said Hamway. "You could go to him and ask him for anything. I'd always go and ask him to sponsor our travel teams when I was young to get some new equipment and stuff."

Roberston, 69, who won't be able to make the trip to Fairbanks because of health reasons (he suffers from a genetic muscle disease similar to Lou Gehrig's Disease) will still bring a little boost to the Ice Dogs' locker room as they chase this year's NAHL title.

"All my teammates know," said Hamway. "It's definitely extra motivation for me and hopefully it motivates the team a little bit, too."

The Robertson Cup Championship has been the talk of Fairbanks the past few weeks, but the fan support at Big Dipper Arena has been the talk of the league for quite a few years. The Ice Dogs averaged 1,877 in attendance this season (second only to Texas in the entire NAHL) and Hamway expects the Fairbanks faithful to be a factor.

"It's going to be pretty crazy in our building," he said. "We've been promoting it like crazy and we're expecting a ton of fans. It's a great hockey town, people love it here."

The four-day tournament, which begins Thursday, will also feature the Mahoning Valley Phantoms, Southern Minnesota Express and the St. Louis Bandits.

"I think teams hate to play here and I think that's going to give us a little advantage," Hamway added.

And even though he'll be thousands of miles away back home in Michigan, Robertson can't help but be at the center of all the excitement.

"I talked to him a couple days about it, he's pretty fired up," said Hamway.

Whalers move up in Priority Selection

The Plymouth Whalers made two deals today to move up in Saturday’s OHL Priority Selection.

Plymouth picked up the 80th overall pick in Saturday’s draft, along with Sault Ste. Marie’s fifth-round pick (93rd overall), in exchange for Erie’s sixth-round pick in Saturday’s draft (101st overall) and Plymouth’s third-round selection in 2009.

The 80th selection is originally London’s fourth-round pick in Saturday’s draft.

In a second deal with the Oshawa Generals, Plymouth acquired Oshawa’s second-round pick (30th overall) in Saturday’s draft along with the Generals’ fourth-round pick (71st overall) in exchange for Plymouth’s second- and fourth-round selections in 2009.

The Whalers’ first-round pick is 19th overall on Saturday.

Smith, Mursak named to All-Academic Team

Plymouth Whalers second-year goalie Jeremy Smith and rookie Saginaw Spirit forward Jan Mursak were named to the OHL All Academic Team for the 2006-2007 season yesterday.

Soo Indians go 1-2 at Dudley Hewitt Cup

Tuesday, April 24
Aurora Tigers 4, Soo Indians 1

Wednesday, April 25
Abitibi Eskimos 4, Soo Indians 2

Thursday, April 26
Soo Indians 2, Schrieber Diesels 1

Gardiner, North Stars mutually part ways

The interlocking ‘TC’ will still adorn the fronts of their sweaters next season, but the Traverse City North Stars will have a new look in 2007-08.

Steve Fournier assumed majority ownership of the North American Hockey League franchise on Thursday as the team heads into its third season of Junior A hockey. Scott Gardiner, who guided the Stars through its first two seasons, will not return for 2007-08

“This is now a locally-owned entity,” said Fournier. “We now have the ability to streamline control a bit, to put even more of a local emphasis on the direction of the team – and that was the original intent from the day we got this team going.”

Fournier, who expects to acquire 100 percent of the ownership in the coming weeks, was part of an ownership consortium which consisted of several Florida businessmen.

Gardiner (pictured), who compiled a 36-72-12 record with the North Stars, is taking a step back from the coaching ranks for the upcoming season.

“It was a kind of mutual thing,” explained Gardiner, who says he is unlikely to seek a coaching job elsewhere for 2007-08. “The team is heading in a new direction, and we needed to have a mutual parting of ways.

“We had some big wins here, some struggles, too, but that is to be expected when you’re dealing with a new franchise. I’ve always said it takes 3-4 years to build a program, and I think in the next year or two you’re going to see this team really come on. There’s a great group of core players who are eligible to come back with a very bright future.”

The team is still in the process of replacing Gardiner behind the bench, and will likely name his successor in advance of the 2007 NAHL Draft on May 22.

“Hopefully sooner than that,” Fournier said. “The process has already begun and the decision will be made as soon as we can work out some things.”

The team is holding the first of its summer tryout camps May 11-13 at Centre ICE arena, which will culminate with a select group of players facing off in a Blue & White Game on Sunday, May 13.

Spirit and Spitfires swap draft picks

The Saginaw Spirit has concluded a trade of draft picks with the Windsor Spitfires.

The Spirit have sent a second-round choice in the upcoming OHL Priority Selection and a fourth-round choice in 2010 in exchange for Windsor’s second-round pick in 2008, third-round pick in 2008 and a fifth-round pick in 2009.

Two North Stars, two 'Diggers land NAHL honors

The North American Hockey League’s annual hardware was handed out Thursday and a pair of Traverse City North Stars players and the Alpena IceDiggers' general manager and top forward were among the honorees.

Forward Kory Kaunisto won the NAHL Academic Achievement Award as the league’s top scholar-athlete, while blueliner Nick Von Bokern was named to the All-NAHL second team.

Kaunisto, who is slated to play at Northern Michigan University in 2008-09 on a full scholarship, posted a perfect 4.00 GPA over his high school career, and found himself in the top one percent of students during his stint at Traverse City Central Senior High School.

The Marquette native is a longstanding member of the National Honor Society, the Business Professionals of America, and is nearing endorsement as a Certified Microsoft Expert. In his 61 games this season, the 6-foot, 170-pound winger scored six goals and assisted on 16 others, and was second among Stars regulars with 134 penalty minutes.

Von Bokern was the NAHL’s top-scoring defenseman with 12 goals and 37 assists. His 21 power-play assists were sixth among all skaters in the league.

Alpena forward Todd Rudasill was named to the league's second team as well after piling up 89 points on 33 goals and 56 assists, good for second overall during the regular season.

A pair of St. Louis players and Ferris State recruits took home top honors, as forward Pat Maroon was named NAHL MVP and Bandits netminder Pat Nagle landed Rookie of the Year accolades.

Alpena skipper Kenny Miller was named NAHL GM of the Year after guiding the IceDiggers to the franchise’s first-ever playoff berth. They were subsequently swept by the USA Under-17 Team in the first round.

ALL-NAHL FIRST TEAM
G – Ryan Zapolski, Mahoning Valley Phantoms
D – Jeff Dimmen, St. Louis Bandits
D - Jeff Carlson, Southern Minnesota Express
F – Pat Maroon, St. Louis Bandits
F – Kyle Schmidt, Fairbanks Ice Dogs
F – Dustin Cloutier, Mahoning Valley Phantoms

ALL-NAHL SECOND TEAM
G – Pat Nagle, St. Louis Bandits
D – Nick Von Bokern, Traverse City
D – Scooter Vaughan, St. Louis Bandits
F – Jesse Echternach, Fargo-Moorhead Jets
F – Todd Rudasill, Alpena IceDiggers
F – Tibor Kutalek, Santa Fe RoadRunners

ALL-ROOKIE TEAM
G – Pat Nagle, St. Louis Bandits
D – Scooter Vaughan, St. Louis Bandits
D – Tom Kleidon, Santa Fe RoadRunners
F – Ryan Kretzer, Springfield Jr. Blues
F – Andy Inderieden, Southern Minnesota Express
F – Derek Graham, Mahoning Valley Phantoms
F – Andy McCabe, Fairbanks Ice Dogs

Sherwood MVP: Pat Maroon, St. Louis Bandits
Rookie of the Year: Pat Nagle, St. Louis Bandits
Coach of the Year: Bob Mainhardt, Mahoning Valley Phantoms
General Manager of the Year: Kenny Miller, Alpena IceDiggers
Community Service Award: Eric Borre, Alexandria Blizzard
Academic Achievement Award: Kory Kaunisto, Traverse City

North Stars' Scovill signs with Wiscionsin-Stout

Even though he had a year of junior eligibility left, Traverse City North Stars defenseman Eric Scovill was ready to hit the books. Now, the Peoria, Ill. native will get to hit the ice as well, committing to play at the University of Wisconsin-Stout next fall.

“It wasn’t pressure from family, or from friends who were already at school – this was my decision to get going on my college education,” explained the 6-foot, 200-pound. Scovill, who joined the Stars after a December trade with Santa Fe. “I had played three years of juniors and really enjoyed it, but I think I had gotten all I could out of it. It was time to move on.”

Scovill, who registered three goals and seven assists in 39 contests between the North Stars and RoadRunners, chose the Menomonie, Wisc. university (enrollment: 8,000+) for its renowned College of Technology, Engineering and Management. Scovill plans to pursue a degree in construction management.

The Blue Devils hockey program, an NCAA Division III entry, was ranked as high as No. 5 nationally last year, but missed out on an NCAA Tournament berth despite a sterling 21-5-2 record in 2006-07. The Devils were 5-3 in Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference play.

“It’s D-III, but it’s strong, competitive hockey in the WIAC,” Scovill said. “And the Stout program is really coming on strong the past couple of years, and I just hope to contribute to that.”

Traverse City head coach Scott Gardiner says the Blue Devils landed a rock-solid stay-at-home type that can help anchor the Stout blue line corps.

“I think they know what they’re getting in Eric, and that’s defenseman’s defenseman,” Gardiner explained. “He’s not a guy who is going to find himself in the rush too often, not a power play type of guy, but he’ll go out there and give you steady play in your own zone. We wish we had him here for another year, but we’re glad he’s getting on with his education and getting to play in a very competitive Division III conference.”

OHL ANNOUNCES DISCIPLINARY ACTION

The Ontario Hockey League today announced the result of a review of an incident which occurred in a game played in London on the 19th of April, 2007 involving the London Knights and the visiting Plymouth Whalers Hockey Club.

The incident reviewed was a match penalty for slashing to player Jordan Shine of the London Knights Hockey Club which resulted in a preliminary indefinite suspension being assessed to player Jordan Shine.

As a result of the completion of such review, it is the position of the League that player Jordan Shine shall be suspended for twenty (20) games which would include the first sixteen (16) games of the 2007-08 OHL regular season.

In making his announcement as a result of the review, Commissioner David Branch stated “the League is of the opinion that player Jordan Shine used his stick in a most unacceptable fashion and it is fortunate that the opposition player was not injured on the play. The Ontario Hockey League has made it clear that the illegal use of the stick will not be tolerated by the League and that we must all work to eliminate this element from our game.”

OHL announces TV coverage for title series

The Ontario Hockey League today announced that the entire 2007 OHL Rogers Championship Series will be broadcast live locally and through the OHL Action Pak on Rogers Television. Viewers can watch every game, with the exception of game two, on Rogers channel 464. Game two of the series on Sunday at 3:00, will be broadcast nationally on Rogers Sportsnet.

“Rogers Television has been a proud partner of the OHL for over 15 years.” said Colette Watson, Vice President of Rogers Television. “While the championship series unfolds outside of our markets, we're pleased to go the extra mile to bring this exciting hockey to our Action Pak customers."

The addition of the home playoff games for the Sudbury Wolves and the Plymouth Whalers will be available in the Sudbury and Plymouth markets as well as on the OHL Action Pak through a co-operative effort with Rogers Television in Ontario and Schoolcraft Sports Network, in Plymouth .

“We are thrilled to have the entire 2007 Rogers Conference Championship Series broadcasted live locally and on the OHL Action Pak,” commented OHL Commissioner David Branch. “This is an exciting time not only for the OHL, but for all of our fans. The OHL is pleased to partner with Rogers Television and Schoolcraft Sports Network of Michigan during this playoff series.”

In addition to the television broadcasts, all Rogers Conference Championships Series games will be available online in broadcast quality through the OHL Live Stream program, which is a partnership with INSINC. Additional information on OHL Live Stream as well as a schedule of the Rogers Conference Championship Series is available online here.

Sestito out for Game 1 of OHL finals

The Ontario Hockey League today announced the results of a review of an incident which occurred in a game played in London on the 26th of April, 2007 involving the Knights and the visiting Plymouth Whalers Hockey Club.

The incident reviewed was a 5-minute major and game misconduct for boarding assessed to player Tom Sestito of the Plymouth Whalers Hockey Club.

Based on such review, it is the position of the League that player Tom Sestito shall be suspended for the first game of the OHL Championship Series between the Whalers and the Sudbury Wolves Hockey Club commencing on Friday, the 4th of May, 2007 in Plymouth, Michigan.

Saginaw preparing for OHL draft Saturday

The Saginaw Spirit is prepping for the 2007 Ontario Hockey League Priority Selection to be held on Saturday via web and telephone conference.

Saginaw selects 16th overall in the draft.

Saginaw Spirit 2007 Priority Selection Order:

First Round – 16th

Second Round – 4th

Third Round – No Selection

Fourth Round – 1st

Fifth Round – 2nd and 16th

Sixth Round – 16th

Seventh Round – 11th

Eighth Round – 5th

Ninth Round – No Selection

Tenth Round – 15th and 16th

Eleventh Round – 16th
Twelfth Round – 16th

Thirteenth Round – 16th

Fourteenth Round – 16th

Fifteenth Round – 16th

The Spirit selected defenseman Nick Crawford in the first round, 12th overall, of the 2006 Priority Selection. Other first-round picks for the Spirit include Zack Torquato (2005), Matt Corrente (2004), Patrick McNeill (2003) and Jean-Michel Rizk (2002).

Trio of IceDiggers commit to D-III schools

Three players from this year's Alpena IceDiggers team have committed to play college hockey at the Division III level next season.

Ricardo Yesue committed to Wisconsin-River Falls (NCHA) early last week, Korey O'Brien will be heading to Wisconsin-Stevens Point (NCHA) and Chris Hendrickson is going home to Finlandia, last season's MCHA champion, in the Upper Peninsula.

"Ricardo is the ultimate team player and it has been a pleasure to coach him the last three seasons," Alpena head coach Kenny Miller said. "I am confident he will carry his leadership skills to the college level.

"Korey is very offensive and should be a impact player at the college level. Chris came in last year and made an impact right away and that carried over into this season where he was a top four defensemen the entire season."

With the three signings, the total number of commitments is at nine from this year's club. Others attending school next season are Todd Rudasill (Ohio State), Drew Pierson (Army), Eric Roman (Wayne State) and Chad Billins (Ferris State in 2008). Shawn Hunwick and Justin Stadler have committed to new Division III school Adrian as well.

R.I.P. my friend

Sadly, hockey photographer Richard Long passed away April 23 at the too-young age of 56.

He will be missed.

Godspeed,

Matt

(Photo by Walt Dmoch)

Alpena tenders defenseman Gulch

The Alpena IceDiggers announced today that defenseman JC Gulch has signed a tender contract for the 2007-2008 season.

Gulch has spent the past two seasons with the Toledo Cherokee of the CSHL, the Junior B affiliate of the IceDiggers. During this past season, Gulch led Cherokee defensemen in scoring with 11 goals and 33 assists for a total of 44 points in 43 games. In the postseason, the Temperance native dressed in all six games tallying a goal and two assists for three points.

"JC was a top defensemen in the CSHL last year and will be a solid guy on the blue line for us," said Alpena head coach Kenny Miller. "He has the ability to be a stay-home defenseman and also contribute in the offensive end as well."

The 18-year-old visited Alpena during the regular season and made his choice to join the IceDiggers shortly after.

"JC had teams in the NAHL showing interest in him and we're happy he decided on Alpena," added Miller. "He will be a big part of our hockey club."

Gulch's teammate with the Cherokee, Tyler Pilmore, also signed to play in Alpena next season. Gulch joins Pilmore, Dan Pason (Little Caesars AAA) and Jonathon Puskar (Compuware AAA) as newcomers for the 2007-2008 season.

Plymouth tops London, off to OHL finals

WESTERN CONFERENCE FINALS
LONDON KNIGHTS vs. PLYMOUTH WHALERS

Game 1 - Plymouth 5 at London 1

Game 2 - at Plymouth 5, London 1

Game 3 - Plymouth 5 at London 2

Game 4 - London 5 at Plymouth 2

Game 5 - Plymouth 4 at London 1

(Plymouth wins series, 4-1)

Photo of (l-r) OHL Vice-President Ted Baker, Mike Patterson, Senior Manager, Sports & Sponsorship for Rogers Television and Plymouth captain Steve Ward with the Wayne Gretzky Trophy by Claus Andersen

Neuvirth, Mursak named to All-Rookie Team

The Ontario Hockey League today announced the Rookie All-Star Teams for the 2006-07 regular season.

First Team:

Centre: Sam Gagner, London Knights
Left Wing: Kaspars Daugavins, Toronto St. Michael’s Majors
Right Wing: Patrick Kane, London Knights
Defence: Alex Pietrangelo, Mississauga IceDogs
Defence: Michael Del Zotto, Oshawa Generals
Goaltender: Thomas McCollum, Guelph Storm

Second Team:

Centre: Steven Stamkos, Sarnia Sting
Left Wing: Jiri Tlusty, Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds

Right Wing: Jan Mursak, Saginaw Spirit

Mursak scored 27 goals and 53 assists for 80 points in 62 games this season. The 19-year-old native of Maribor, Slovenia was a first-round pick of the Spirit in the 2006 CHL Import Draft and was selected by the Detroit Red Wings in the sixth round of the 2006 NHL Entry Draft.

Defence: Zach Bogosian, Peterborough Petes
Defence: Yannick Weber, Kitchener Rangers

Goalie: Michal Neuvirth, Plymouth Whalers

Neuvirth had a record of 26-8-2-2 record in 41 games this season posting a 2.32 goals-against average and a .932 save percentage. The 19-year-old native of Usti Nad Labem, Czech Republic was a first-round pick of the Whalers in the 2006 CHL Import Draft and was a second-round pick of the Washington Capitals at the 2006 NHL Entry Draft.

Whalers' Brophey ready to sign with Chicago

The Chicago Blackhawks are eager to sign Evan Brophey.

"We'll do it today if he wants," said Blackhawks general manager Dale Tallon yesterday from Chicago.

"It doesn't matter to me. A big centreman with skill? That's something that we can use."

Perhaps Tallon will bring a pen and a standard three-year NHL entry-level contract to London tonight.

Tallon plans to attend as Brophey's Plymouth Whalers try to finish off the Knights in the Ontario Hockey League's Western Conference final.

The rest of the story from the Kitchener-Waterloo Record here.

Neuvirth wins weekly OHL honor

Plymouth Whalers goaltender Michal Neuvirth stopped 65 of 67 shots posting a 1.00 goals-against average and a .970 save percentage, while leading the Whalers to back-to-back playoff victories over the London Knights last week to earn OHL Player of the Week honors.

The 19-year-old recorded 29 saves on Friday in the opening game of the Rogers Western Conference Championship Series, which was held in London. Plymouth defeated London 5-1. The following night, Neuvirth made 36 saves in a 5-1 win on home ice. The Whalers are leading the Knights in the best-of-seven series, 3-0.

Mancini not coming back to Saginaw

The Saginaw Spirit will not renew the contract of head coach and general manager Bob Mancini.

"We greatly appreciate Bob's efforts and commitment to the franchise and wish him nothing but success in the future," said Spirit owner Dick Garber. "The team and Bob have a philosophical difference on the team's path to future success."

"I want to thank the Saginaw Spirit fans, the community and the organization for my time here in Saginaw," Mancini added.

Mancini just completed the third year of a three-year contract. The Spirit will now begin the process of looking for a new GM. The new GM's duties will include the process of hiring a new head coach for the hockey team.

Spirit veteran head scout Dan Halliburton will coordinate the Spirit's selections in the 2007 OHL Priority Selection in May and the team's European Draft picks in June.

OHL ANNOUNCES DISCIPLINARY ACTION

The Ontario Hockey League today announced the results of a preliminary review of an incident which occurred in a game played in London on the 19th of April, 2007 involving the Knights and the visiting Plymouth Whalers Hockey Club.

The incident reviewed was a match penalty for slashing to player Jordan Shine of the London Knights Hockey Club.

Based on such review by the League, it is the position of the League that player Jordan Shine shall be suspended indefinitely pending a completion of the review process.

North Stars defender off to WSU this fall

Like father, like son.

Traverse City North Stars defenseman Phil Partyka is following in the footsteps of his dad, heading to Wayne State to play hockey for the Warriors next season. Partyka tallied just four assists over 57 contests for Traverse City in 2006-07, but his rock-solid consistency and cerebral presence attracted Division I scouts from around the Midwest.

“I’m pretty excited about it,” said Partyka, a Washington native. “It’s pretty much everyone’s goal in juniors to get to college, so in that sense it’s pretty satisfying.”

The elder Partyka played baseball at the midtown Detroit university in the 1970s when the school’s nickname was still ‘Tartars.'

“There’s kind of a neat symmetry to it,” said Phil Partyka, who plans to major in accounting.

Wayne State is a member of College Hockey America, a Division I conference featuring schools from Niagara to Alabama. The campus is home to more than 33,000 students and boasts several graduate programs including a law school and medical campus. The Warriors, 12-21-2 last season, play their home games at the Michigan State Fairgrounds on the city’s north side.

“Phil was just as steady as you could ask for this year,” said Stars head coach Scott Gardiner. “He was a top-2 defenseman in his consistency all season long. He wasn’t a flashy player, but he was right there every night.”

At 6-foot-3 and 200 pounds, Partyka’s size and reach are huge assets, but as Gardiner points out, his academic orientation made Partyka an easy sell to collegiate scouts.

“He’s very committed to the academics,” Gardiner said. “He’s quiet compared to most guys in the locker room, but you get to know him just a little bit and you find out that he’s a smart, funny guy. He’s a great kid and everyone here is very happy for him to get the chance to play on.”

Partyka says that his seasons with Bay State (2005-06) and Traverse City gave him a look at varied facets of the game that should prepare him for the rigors of Division I college hockey.

“At Bay State, the EJ (eastern Junior Hockey League) it was more of a finesse game,” the 21-year old explained. “And then to come here with a more physical style that the North American league affords, I got to be around two very different styles. Hopefully, I can take a little bit of what I learned at each stop to the next level.”

With Partyka at WSU, the North Stars will have at least six alums playing Division I college hockey next season, and as many as 12 at NCAA and ACHA programs overall. Patrick Nagorsen and Travis Paeth are set to play for Western Michigan in the fall, Steven Oleksy will be a junior at Lake Superior State, Danny Dries has committed to New Hampshire and Eric Elmblad will begin his sophomore campaign at Michigan.

Kory Kaunisto could take his game to Northern Michigan for 2007-08, but is leaning toward returning to the North Stars for another year of juniors. Nick Von Bokern and Mike Glaesmer have also taken visits to and from numerous schools, with signings imminent for both, according to Gardiner.

“With those guys and the guys we have at Division III schools and ACHA schools, it’s a pretty darn good start for a two-year old franchise,” he remarked.

Saginaw native Kennedy commits to RPI

St. Louis Bandits defenseman John Kennedy has committed to RPI for the upcoming fall.

Kennedy, an assistant captain with the Bandits, had three goals and 13 assists during the regular season.

“I’m not sure if we have ever had anyone as deserving for this opportunity than John," said Bandits coach-GM Jon Cooper. “He is a class act both on and off the ice and has been a great role model in the community.”

“I am honored to go to such a prestigious school that excels both academically and athletically," the 19-year-old Saginaw native said. "I want to thank the Bandits organization for helping this dream come true."

Kennedy is the ninth Bandit to commit to a Division I school this season.

Saginaw makes formal Memorial Cup bid

The Saginaw Spirit Memorial Cup delegation presented their bid for the 2008 CHL Memorial Cup today to the Memorial Cup Host Site Selection Committee.

The host site for the 2008 Memorial Cup will be announced the week of May 7.

The Spirit delegation included Spirit president and managing partner Craig Goslin, VP of operations Cameron Knowles and VP of sales Brian Prout. The delegation also included Saginaw County Convention and Visitors Bureau president & CEO Annette Rummel and director of tourism Lori Amo. Dow Event Center GM Zane Collings also participated.

“The presentation was flawless,” stated Goslin. “Cameron, Brian, Annette, Lori and Zane hit on all cylinders. The presentation did nothing but enhance our opportunity to host the 2008 Memorial Cup in Saginaw. It's still a long shot (for Saginaw to host the event), but we put our best foot forward in representing the Saginaw and Mid-Michigan community.”

Goslin highlighted the future growth of the OHL into the American marketplace and the impact a Saginaw-based Memorial Cup would have on that growth. Knowles followed with an overview of the demographics and geographic environment of the region and then Rummel discussed the many travel, lodging and entertainment options available in Mid-Michigan. Collings highlighted the Dow Event Center and its three first-class facilities – the arena, the hall and the theater.

Goslin closed the presentation with a preview of next year's Spirit roster and invited the committee to join the Saginaw community in 2008 for the Memorial Cup.

The voting members of the Host Site Selection Committee include former Major League Baseball CEO Paul Beeston, former NHL Director of Central Scouting Frank Bonello, NHL consultant Brian O'Neill and NHL senior VP of hockey operations Jim Gregory.

The Spirit submitted a request to bid on the Memorial Cup on February 5. On March 6, the team was approved by the Host Site Selection Committee to make a formal bid. The other OHL teams bidding on the Memorial Cup are the Kitchener Rangers, London Knights, Oshawa Generals and Sarnia Sting.

Rangers remove interim tag from Enders

Randy Enders has been named the full-time head coach of the Marquette Rangers.

Enders has served as the interim head coach of the Rangers since late last December and served as an assistant coach before that under former head coach Leigh Mendelson.

"Coach Enders assisted our club during a difficult time and has shown great leadership over the last several months. He has proven to be a quality coach and a quality person," said Rangers GM David Saint-Onge. "Since taking over in late December, Randy rallied our team and put us into the Robertson Cup playoffs. We are appreciative of his effort and results."

"I'm really pleased with the vote of confidence I've received from the organization," Enders said. "This year has been a great experience for me and I've grown a lot as a coach and person. The players really rallied when the change was made and their hard work and effort are a big part of this too. I'll always be grateful to them for that.

“Marquette is a great hockey community and the fans have been very supportive of our efforts and I'm anxious to keep things moving forward."

Brophey runner-up for top OHL overager

The Ontario Hockey League today announced that Tyler Donati of the Belleville Bulls is the winner of the Leo Lalonde Memorial Trophy as the OHL's Top Overage Player for the 2006-07 season.

Donati received 64 points in the voting process, followed by runner-up Evan Brophey of the Plymouth Whalers, who received 50 points. Hunter Tremblay of the Barrie Colts finished third with 20 points.

INDIANS ARE NOJHL CHAMPIONS

The Soo Indians have put a title touch to an improbable first season in the Northern Ontario Junior Hockey League.

The Indians will represent the NOJHL as league champs at the Dudley Hewitt Cup Central Canada Championships, scheduled for April 24-28 in Iroquois Falls, Ontario.

Purchased by Charles Perdicaro last summer just as the former Northern Michigan Black Bears franchise was about to be mothballed, the all-new Indians eventually had a strong finish to the '06-07 NOJHL regular season, which resulted in them snaring first place on the final night of the schedule.

Then, after a first-round playoff bye, the Indians defeated the North Bay Skyhawks in seven games in the semi-finals before ousting the defending champion Sudbury Kal Tire Jr. Wolves in five games in the finals, culminating with a 5-4 home-ice win at Big Bear Arena on Saturday night.

Trailing 4-3 after two periods, the Indians tied the game early in the third and then won it on Sean Farley's timely tally with just under five minutes to play.

The Indians started to come together with 20 games left in the regular season when Kevin Cain took over as head coach from the fired Jim Capy. Under Cain's steady hand, the Indians posted a 14-6 record, including a 9-2 mark down the stretch to vault from third place to first.

"The best move I ever made as owner of this team was the day I decided to make the coaching change and to bring Kevin aboard," Perdicaro said evenly.

On a team without stars, the Indians do have leaders, including former Black Bears Farley, Isaac Viau, Pete Landem and J.D. King.

Farley is the team's main goal-scoring threat, Viau, the captain is all about hustle and desire, Landem is arguably the Indians' top defenceman and King, a defender, is one of the more-popular players in the dressing room.

In winning the NOJHL title, the Indians did so with a top-notch goaltending tandem of Elliott Hogue and Brennan Poderzay. Hogue is another holdover from the Northern Michigan franchise.

"We are who we are because we work hard and play as a team," said Cain, who gets considerable help behind the bench from assistants Al DiPasquo and Warren Lavoy.

Whalers down Kitchener, off to West finals

WESTERN CONFERENCE SEMIFINALS
PLYMOUTH WHALERS vs. KITCHENER RANGERS

Game 1 – at Plymouth 6, Kitchener 5 (OT)
Game 2 - Plymouth 3 at Kitchener 2
Game 3 - at Plymouth 5, Kitchener 4 (OT)
Game 4 - at Kitchener 4, Plymouth 2
Game 5 - at Plymouth 4, Kitchener 1
(Plymouth wins series, 4-1)

IceDiggers to applaud fans Sunday

With the Alpena IceDiggers' season coming to an end last night in Ann Arbor, the IceDiggers staff is planning a skate with the team event and a pizza party for any fans wanting to see their favorite player off before he heads home to began the offseason.

Fans are encouraged to bring their skates to skate with the team. Skate rental will also be available at no charge.

The event will take place at Northern Lights Arena on Sunday with a FREE public skate session with the players from 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m, and after the skate there will be pizza and refreshments for everyone in attendance in the Thunder Bay Recreation Center.

"This is a way for our great fans who have supported us all year long to get a chance to say goodbye to their favorite player before the guys leave for the summer," said Alpena head coach Kenny Miller.

The game jersey auction will also end following the get together. Anyone interested in bidding on these game-worn jerseys can email VP/GM Bob Krafft at krafftice@yahoo.com or call the main office at (989) 356-9812. There are plenty of jerseys to bid on.

Neuvirth runner-up as top OHL goalie

Plymouth Whalers goaltender Michal Neuvirth finished second in this season’s Ontario Hockey League goaltender of the year voting, behind London goaltender Steve Mason.

Neuvirth, a second-round pick (34th overall) of the Washington Capitals, compiled a 2.32 goals-against average and led the OHL during the regular season with a .932 save percentage. Along with Jeremy Smith, the Whalers led the OHL in team defense this season in allowing 173 goals over 68 games.

Mason posted an impressive 45-13-1-3 record, along with a 3.20 goals against average and a .914 save percentage, in 62 games this season. Mason was instrumental in leading the Knights to their fourth consecutive Hamilton Spectator Trophy, along with the teams fourth consecutive Holody Trophy Midwest Division Championship. Mason’s 45 regular season wins is a new OHL record amongst goaltenders.

Mason received 76 points in the voting process, followed by Neuvirth, who received 43 points. Thomas McCollum of the Guelph Storm finished third with 28 points.

Rangers and IceDiggers both swept

NAHL ROBERTSON CUP PLAYOFFS
FIRST ROUND (best of five)

Marquette Rangers vs. Mahoning Valley Phantoms
Game 1- at Mahoning Valley 4, Marquette 1
Game 2 - at Mahoning Valley 6, Marquette 2

Game 3 - Mahoning Valley 6 at Marquette 2

(Mahoning Valley wins series, 3-0)

USNTDP vs. Alpena IceDiggers
Game 1 - USNTDP 5 at Alpena 4

Game 2 - USNTDP 3 at Alpena 2

Game 3 - at USNTDP 5, Alpena 3

(USNTDP wins series, 3-0)

Saginaw's Mursak inks with Red Wings

The Detroit Red Wings have announced the signing of Saginaw Spirit forward Jan Mursak to a three-year entry level contract.

Mursak was drafted by the Red Wings in the sixth round, 182nd overall, of the 2006 NHL Entry Draft. Terms of the contract were not disclosed.

Mursak is expected to return to the Spirit next season. He tallied 27 goals and 53 assists (80 points) in his rookie season with the Spirit and was plus-27. He also set a new Spirit consecutive point streak record with at least one point scored in 22 consecutive games.

Mursak has the distinction of setting that record in his first 22 games in the Ontario Hockey League.

The Maribor, Slovenia native came to the Spirit via the 2006 CHL Import Draft.

Indians can win NOJHL title at home

The Soo Indians are in position to win the Northern Ontario Junior Hockey League title on home ice.

Leading the best-of-seven NOJHL championship series three games to one, the Indians will play host to the defending champion Sudbury Jr. Wolves on Saturday at 7 p.m. at Big Bear Arena.

Sudbury forced Saturday's game five with a 5-2 home-ice win over the Indians on Thursday night.

Defenceman Jacob Johnston scored a pair of goals to spark the Sudbury attack. Nick Zilka and Austin Brown replied for the Indians, who got a 32-save outing from goalie Elliot Hogue.

Pyatt named OHL's most sportsmanlike

The Ontario Hockey League announced Wednesday that Saginaw Spirit center Tom Pyatt has been named the Most Sportsmanlike Player and winner of the William Hanley Trophy for the 2006-07 season.

The winner is selected by the league's general managers.

“We are very thrilled for Tom,” stated Spirit coach-GM Bob Mancini. “It's a tremendous credit to him as a player and speaks to his ability, his competitiveness and his sense of fair play. Our entire organization is very happy for Tom.”

Pyatt tallied 43 goals and 38 assists (81 points) and was plus-33. He was the team's goal leader and point leader during the season, and broke Spirit single season records in goals, shorthanded goals (6) and plus/minus. Pyatt notched 94 goals and 106 assists (200 points) in his four-year, 240-game Spirit career.

The Thunder Bay, Ontario native represented Saginaw at the 2006 OHL All-Star Classic, being named the Western Conference Most Valuable Player, and the 2007 OHL All-Star Classic, being named the captain of the Western Conference. He participated in the 2005 and 2006 ADT Canada-Russia Challenge and won gold medals with Team Canada at the 2006 and 2007 World Junior Championships.

Pyatt joined the AHL's Hartford Wolf Pack following the conclusion of the Spirit postseason. The Wolf Pack is the AHL affiliate of the New York Rangers, who drafted Pyatt in the 2005 NHL Entry Draft.

Pyatt received 45 points in the voting process, followed by Logan Couture of the Ottawa 67’s and Dustin Jeffrey of the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds, who both received 27 points. Daniel Ryder of the Plymouth Whalers finished third in voting with 25 points.

The Most Sportsmanlike Player award and William Hanley Trophy has been previously awarded to Brampton's Wojtek Wolski (2005-06) and Sault Ste. Marie's Jeff Carter (2004-05). The trophy is presented by the OHL to commemorate William Hanley, former Secretary-Manager of the Ontario Hockey Association for over 25 years.

Indians one win from NOJHL title

BY BOBBY RUSSON
RR Media Service

Only one win stands in the way of a Northern Ontario Junior A Hockey League playoff championship for the Soo Indians.

On Tuesday evening at the Big Bear Arena in Sault Ste. Marie, the Indians drubbed the NOJHL's defending champion Sudbury Junior Wolves 5-2 to take a commanding three-games-to-none lead in the best-of-seven finals.

Game 4 will be played on Thursday night in Sudbury.

The Indians got their goals from five players as Shane Bailey, Joe Larson, Chris Cooper, Isaac Viau and Sean Farley all scored once. Viau's and Farley's goals came when the Indians were shorthanded.

The Indians outshot the Junior Wolves, 43-34, before 222 fans as goalie Elliott Hogue won his third straight game of the series for the surging Soo team.

Vellucci wins top OHL coaching honors

The Ontario Hockey League today announced that Michael Vellucci of the Plymouth Whalers is the 2006-2007 Matt Leyden Trophy winner as the OHL's Coach of the Year.

Vellucci, a 40-year-old native of Farmington, is a graduate of the Ontario Hockey League having spent three seasons as a defenceman for the Belleville Bulls. Vellucci guided the Whalers to an impressive 49-14-2-3 record this season, the most wins in his Ontario Hockey League coaching career, while capturing the Bumbacco Trophy West Division Championship for the second consecutive year. Vellucci has coached the Whalers for the past six seasons and has an overall coaching record of 228-124-38-18.

Some past winners of the Matt Leyden Trophy include: Dale Hunter, Brian Kilrea, Craig Hartsburg, Jacques Martin, George Armstrong and Terry Crisp.

The Matt Leyden Trophy is voted on by the member teams of the Ontario Hockey League. In a first round of balloting, teams vote for the top coaches, within their own conference. The top three nominees from both the Eastern and Western conferences are declared as finalists. A second round of voting is then conducted on a league wide basis where teams vote for any of the six finalists. At no time during the voting can a team vote for their own candidate. Coaches receive five points for a first place vote, three points for a second place vote and one point for a third place vote.

The Matt Leyden Trophy has been awarded annually since 1972, to the Coach of the Year in the Ontario Hockey League. The award is in recognition of the contributions of Matt Leyden, past President of the Ontario Hockey Association from 1965-1967. The Oshawa native was honored as a lifetime member of the OHA in 1972.

Last year, Dave Barr of the Guelph Storm was named the OHL Coach of the Year after guiding the Storm to a 40-24-1-3 record, for 84 points. This was a 27 point increase from the previous season for the Storm and was among the largest improvements in the Ontario Hockey League.
Vellucci received 53 points in the voting process, followed by Mike Kelly of the Mississauga IceDogs with 35 points and Dave Barr of the Guelph Storm with 26 points.

Vellucci is the Ontario Hockey League nominee for the Go RVing Brian Kilrea CHL Coach of the Year Award.

Grand Ledge's Fillinger commits to Ferris State

Mahoning Valley Phantoms right wing Mike Fillinger has accepted a scholarship to play college hockey at Ferris State University.

“I have seven family members who attended Ferris State,” Fillinger said. “My mom went there on a tennis scholarship and my dad graduated there as well. I’m excited to follow in their footsteps and play for a great university.”

Fillinger will know by next month whether or not he will play at Ferris State this fall or in 2008, returning to the Phantoms next season.

“They have been looking at me for some time,” said Fillinger, a Grand Ledge native. “After a recent game in Alpena, (Ferris State) coach (Bob) Daniels wanted to arrange a visit for me. After my visit, they made me an offer.”

“It’s definitely the right fit for Mike and we couldn’t be happier for him,” Phantoms coach Bob Mainhardt said.

Fillinger becomes the second Phantom this season, the third overall, to head to Ferris State. He joins center Derek Graham, who will play in Big Rapids in 2008, and former Phantom and current Bulldogs’ sophomore defenseman Evan Case.

“Mike has really become a more complete player,” Mainhardt said. “He reads the play well at both ends of the ice.”

In 52 regular season games this season, Fillinger recorded 44 points on 24 goals and 20 assists. Five of his goals were shorthanded, tying him for third in the North American Hockey League with teammates Dustin Cloutier and Nathan Longpre.

Mainhardt said that Fillinger’s skating ability sets him apart from others.

“Mike has learned how to use his speed much more effectively and put himself in situations that only his speed can place him in,” Mainhardt said.

“I’m gradually seeing the ice better as I move with the puck,” Fillinger said. “At the same time, I still need to improve my puck handling skills and my speed with the puck.”

The Phantoms right wing says a national championship is on his mind first and foremost.

“A lot of the players got together Saturday to watch Michigan State win the national championship,” Fillinger said. “We watched them celebrate and thought how great it would be to win one ourselves.”

Plymouth's Boll signs with Blue Jackets

Plymouth Whalers' overage forward Jared Boll signed with the Columbus Blue Jackets over the weekend.

The Whalers did not issue a press release, but the Blue Jackets did.

Indians up two on Sudbury in NOJHL finals

BY RANDY RUSSON
RR Media Service

A pair of huge weekend wins have given the Soo Indians a commanding two-games-to-none lead in their Northern Ontario Junior Hockey League title series with the defending champion Sudbury Kal Tire Jr. Wolves.

Playing at home on Saturday night, the Indians began the series with a 4-1 win as Sean Farley scored twice and Sam Yearsley and Pete Landem tallied once apiece. Landem, Austin Brown, Nick Novak, Sean Reid and Jake Russell all turned in stellar blueline performances in front of surprise starter Elliott Hogue, who made 26 saves in the Indians' net.

It was Hogue's first start in almost a month, his last action being the final game of the regular season back on March 10 when the Indians beat the Manitoulin Islanders to clinch first place. And the 20-year old goalie shrugged off the cobwebs to make several timely saves.

The Indians then ventured into hostile territory at Copper Cliff, just outside of Sudbury, on Easter Sunday and cuffed the Jr. Wolves 5-3. Yearsley had a pair of goals, Farley, Ky Moje and Isaac Viau tallied once apiece and Landem had three assists. Hogue made 40 saves for the Indians, who were outshot 43-30.

Jesse Graham scored all three Sudbury goals -- all on the power play.

"Now it's the next game that is key, we have the home-ice advantage and we're up two games. It's up to us to keep going what we've started. We're very aware of what Sudbury has and that it takes four games to win a series, not two. We need two more wins, one at a time, before I'll get really excited," said Indians' head coach Kevin Cain, in his usual ho-hum fashion.

Game 3 of the best-of-seven series is set for Big Bear Arena in the Michigan Soo on Tuesday at 7 p.m.

Indians eliminate Skyhawks, off to NOJHL finals

The Soo Indians advanced to the NOJHL finals with a 5-3 Game 7 win over the North Bay Skyhawks last night at Big Bear Arena.

The two teams traded first-period goals with Sam Yearsley scoring a late power-play goal for the Indians.

Scott Pulak, captain Isaac Viau, Austin Brown and Mike Connolly added goals in the second period for the Soo.

Both teams were held off the scoresheet in the third period.

Brennan Poderzay (pictured) made 40 stops in the Soo net.

Next up for the Indians is a best-of-seven with the Sudbury Jr. Wolves. Game 1 is tomorrow night at Big Bear Arena at 7 p.m. Sudbury hosts Game 2 Sunday night at 7 p.m.

IceDiggers add Puskar for '07-08 season

The Alpena IceDiggers have signed Jonathan Puskar to a tender for the 2007-2008 season.

The Canton native spent the 2006-2007 campaign with the Compuware midget major team in the Midwest Elite Hockey League.

"Jon played with Jimmy McCusker at Compuware last year, so when we offered him the tender it didn't take long for him to decide Alpena was the place he wanted to play juniors," said Alpena head coach Kenny Miller.

The 5-foot-11, 180-pound forward led Compuware in every statistical category scoring 33 goals while adding 42 assists for a total of 75 points in 61 games played.

"We have added a hard-working kid that has the ability to score goals," added Miller. "He scored goals in midgets and I think he will at junior level as well."

Puskar becomes the third player this season to sign a tender for next year, joining Tyler Pilmore (Toledo Cherokee Junior B) and Dan Pason (Little Caesars AAA).

Whalers, Spirit recognized in Coaches Poll

Tom Sestito, Evan Brophey, James Neal, Jared Boll and Dan Collins are all recognized in the annual OHL Western Conference Coaches Poll for the Plymouth Whalers, while Nigel Williams, Patrick McNeill, Ryan O'Marra and Cody Bass get mention for the Saginaw Spirit.

Alpena defenseman Billins commits to FSU

The Alpena IceDiggers announced Wednesday that rookie defensemen Chad Billins has committed to Ferris State for the 2008-2009 season.

Billins is in his first year of junior hockey and tallied seven goals and assisted on 18 others for a total of 25 points in 62 regular season games this year.

"I am very excited to be going to Ferris," said Billins. "Coach (Bob) Daniels and his entire staff were very professional during my visit and my family and I can't thank them enough."

The Marysville native becomes the fourth IceDigger this season to commit to a Division I school joining Todd Rudasill (Ohio State), Drew Pierson (Army) and Eric Roman (Wayne State).

Billins will play one more year of juniors before making the jump to the college level and Alpena head coach Kenny Miller is happy about that situation.

"I am really happy for Chad and his family," said Miller. "He has earned this scholarship and he has improved as a player everyday. Our main goal as an organization is to move these kids on and when you can do that and get that player for another year, that is an added bonus."

Three Saginaw skaters off to AHL teams

The Saginaw Spirit announced today that several players have left Saginaw to play in the American Hockey League.

Tom Pyatt and Tomas Zaborsky have left to play with the Hartford Wolf Pack and Cody Bass has left to play with the Binghamton Senators. Hartford is the New York Rangers' affiliate and Binghamton is the Ottawa Senators' affiliate.

“We as an organization are very proud of these three young men and wish them the best of luck with their AHL teams,” stated Spirit coach-GM Bob Mancini.

IceDiggers to honor host families Saturday

On Saturday night during the first intermission of Game 1 of the NAHL playoffs between the Alpena IceDiggers and the USA Under-17 team, the IceDiggers will honor the team's host families at center ice.

Each member of the team will lead their host family to the middle of the ice to be recognized by everyone in attendance at the first-ever home playoff game for the IceDiggers since joining the NAHL in 2004.

"Without these fine folks, IceDigger hockey would not be possible," Alpena head coach Kenny Miller said. "Honoring them is the least we can do. They open their homes to these young men, make them a part of the family and we truly respect and thank them for that."

The following host families will be in attendance for Saturday's game: Dr. Robert and Nancy Coombs, Mark and Robin Birmingham, Tom and Judy Sommerfeld, Mike and Norma Agius, Tim and Kay Sayre, Dr. Eric and Joanie Cornish, Bill and Arlene Peterson, Al and Mary Wirgau, Peggy Levren, Tom and Lisa Hilberg, John and Marie Fisher, Dave and Terri Dziubinski, Ray and Theresa Henry, Tom and Debbie Van Massenhove, Marie Tulgestka, Milt and Colleen Clark, Tom and Peggy Marzean and Bob and Sue Krafft.

The IceDiggers will also honor second-year housing director Donna Baranyai as Miller will also lead her to center ice along with the host families.

"Donna and I have worked together since I came her two years ago and she has helped me tremendously," added Miller. "She makes my job easier and words can't express how grateful I am."

Indians home for deciding Game 7

The Soo Indians and North Bay Skyhawks are going to a Game 7.

Tuesday night in North Bay, the Skyhawks evened the best-of-seven Northern Ontario Junior Hockey League semifinal series at three games apiece with a 3-1 win over the Indians.

The loss capped a tough day for the Indians, whose charter bus broke down in Sudbury. After a two-hour delay, the Indians arrived in North Bay on a school bus at 7:15 -- just 15 minutes before the scheduled game time. The Indians hurriedly unloaded the bus, dressed and had a brief warmup before the game got underway at about 8:15 p.m.

"It's down to one game now and we'll be at home and in a seventh game, anything can happen," said Indians' coach Kevin Cain. "It's been a tough, hard-fought series and no one should be surprised that it's going to a seventh game."

Thursday's game will be played at 7 p.m. at Big Bear Arena in the Michigan Soo.

Saginaw doles out awards at annual banquet

The Saginaw Spirit hosted their fifth annual awards ceremony Tuesday night at the Dow Event Center. Players were recognized by their teammates, staff members and fans for their on-ice and off-ice contributions to the 2006-07 season.

Below are the award winners, voted on by the players and staff, for the 2006-07 season.

The Heart and Soul Award was given to Spirit center Cody Bass. The award recognizes a player whose hard work and attitude not only pays results on the ice, but rubs off on his teammates as well.

Winger Ryan Berard won the Community Service Award.

Rookie center Andrew Clouthier was recognized as the Most Improved Player for the 2006-07 season.

Center Tyler Haskins received the Wren Blair Leadership Award, which recognizes a player whose contribution to the team goes above and beyond the score sheet, to include leadership in the locker room and off the ice.

Defenseman and captain Patrick McNeill was named the Top Defenseman for this season.

Spirit winger Jan Mursak was the co-winner of the Fan Favorite Award and was recognized as the Spirit's Rookie of the Year. Mursak, who attends Nouvel Catholic Central High School, also received the Academic Award.

Center Tom Pyatt was this season's leading scorer, team MVP and co-winner of the Fan Favorite Award.

Stadler to help start D-III Adrian program

Alpena IceDiggers forward Justin Stadler has committed to Adrian College for the 2007-2008 season.

"Justin is very excited to be going to Adrian and help jump start their program and I am happy for him," said Alpena head coach Kenny Miller. "He will get a chance to play close to home so his parents can attend his games for the next four years."

Adrian will compete for the first time in school history next season at the Division III level and play in the Midwest Collegiate Hockey Association.

Stadler, a Livonia native, becomes the fourth IceDigger to commit to play college hockey next season joining Todd Rudasill (Ohio State), Drew Pierson (Army) and Eric Roman (Wayne State).

With Stadler attending Adrian, he will join several former IceDiggers who are currently competing in D-III hockey. Dayne Bihn and Kaleigh Schrock are playing at third-ranked Neumann College, while Steve Culbertson (Castleton), Jeff Miller (St. Mary's), Ross Enmark (Curry College), Joe Watson (Utica) and Mitch Sabo (Suffolk) are also at the D-III level.

Whalers advance, Spirit gone in six

WESTERN CONFERENCE
QUARTERFINAL SERIES


Series "B" - PLYMOUTH vs. GUELPH
Game 1 - at Plymouth 3, Guelph 2 (OT)
Game 2 - Plymouth 5 at Guelph 3
Game 3 - at Plymouth 7, Guelph 1
Game 4 - Plymouth 3 at Guelph 2
(Plymouth wins series, 4-0)


Series "D" - SAGINAW vs. SAULT STE. MARIE
Game 1 - at Saginaw 4, Sault Ste. Marie 3
Game 2 - Sault Ste. Marie 5 at Saginaw 1
Game 3 - at Sault Ste. Marie 2, Saginaw 1
Game 4 - at Sault Ste. Marie 5, Saginaw 3
Game 5 - at Saginaw 7, Sault Ste. Marie 1
Game 6 - at Sault Ste. Marie 4, Saginaw 3 (OT)
(Sault Ste. Marie wins series, 4-2)