Port Huron names training camp roster

The NAHL North Division champion Port Huron Fighting Falcons will be opening their 2012 training camp August 20 with 16 forwards, nine defenseman and three goalies fighting for 25 spots.

The Falcons will be returning seven forwards, including leading scorers Ian Miller and Kody Polin, while Alex Archibald and Ryan Nick will anchor the defense with Max Milosek back in goal.

The Falcons will be bringing in four new forwards Matt Uvodich, Zach Lindsay, Zach Badalalmenti and Port Huron resident Dillon Pfeifer and one defenseman, Jon Kopacka, who has played previously in the NAHL.

The additional Falcon players come from nine different leagues across the world with four players from the HPHL, two players from each of the NAPHL, Tier 1 Elite, SJHL and Michigan high school, along with one player from each of the NA3HL, EJHL, WSHL and the Swedish Jr. Hockey League.

The players come from six different states and two different countries:
21 - Michigan
2 - Pennsylvania
1 - Arizona
1 - New Jersey
1 - Texas
1 - Kansas
1 - Sweden
1 – Canada

Week one of camp with be at the Mount Clemens Ice Arena from 3-5 p.m. Monday through Friday before moving back to McMorran Arena for the second week starting on August 27 at 1 p.m. All practices are open to the public.

The following players will be attending this year's camp in hopes of making the team:

Pos First Name Last Name YOB Last Team

G Alex Blankenburg 94 Honeybaked U18 (HPHL)
G Max Milosek 93 Port Huron Fighting Falcons (NAHL)
G Scott Murray 93 Detroit Falcons (NAPHL)

D Alex Archibald 94 Port Huron Fighting Falcons (NAHL)
D Beau Browning 94 Osoyoos Coyotes (SJHL)
D Bobby Brown 93 St. Louis Jr. Blues (NA3HL)
D Chris Hansen 93 Wenatchee Wild U18 (NAPHL)
D Cole Pierce 93 Belle Tire U18 (Tier 1 Elite)
D Jon Kopacka 93 Compuware U18 (HPHL)
D Mark Evan Auk 95 University Liggett H.S.
D Ryan Murray 92 Port Huron Fighting Falcons (NAHL)
D Ryan Nick 93 Port Huron Fighting Falcons (NAHL)

F Bryan Yim 94 Honeybaked U18 (HPHL)
F Daniel Rehnstrom 93 Mjolby HC
F Dillon Pfeifer 94 Port Huron Northern H.S.
F Easton Powers 92 Port Huron Fighting Falcons (NAHL)
F Ian Miller 92 Port Huron Fighting Falcons (NAHL)
F Jake Goldberg 92 Port Huron Fighting Falcons (NAHL)
F Kody Polin 92 Port Huron Fighting Falcons (NAHL)
F Mathew Uvodich 92 New Mexico Renegades (WSHL)
F Mitch Maloney 94 Honeybaked U18 (HPHL)
F Nick Horne 93 Port Huron Fighting Falcons (NAHL)
F Nick Sierra 92 Port Huron Fighting Falcons (NAHL)
F Rick DeRosa 92 Port Huron Fighting Falcons (NAHL)
F Tom Kempinski 93 Princeton Posse (SJHL)
F Vito Aluia 94 Belle Tire U18 (Tier 1 Elite)
F Zach Badalalmenti 93 New England Huskies (EJHL)
F Zach Lindsay 92 Corpus Christi Ice Rays (NAHL)

Chapman named Tennyson's first captain

Speedy forward Zach Chapman has been named Tennyson Chevrolet’s team captain for the 2012-13 season.

Chapman, who stands just 5-foot-4, was one of the big stories of the 2011-2012 Great Lakes Junior Hockey League season with the Motor City Chiefs.

"We are very pleased and honored to name Zach as our captain,” said Tennyson coach-GM Dan Vasquez. “Zach's work ethic, commitment to his team and dedication to the game was one of the most impressive things I have seen in my 30-plus years as a coach. I know that Zach will help make that type of dedication part of our everyday habits. Chapman started last season as a player that was supposed to not break the taxi squad and ended up being a player that we used in every situation and was invaluable to our everyday play.

"We have spent a lot of time over the summer talking about him taking this role and we think he will be a great captain.”

Whalers add scouts Debenham, Robert

The Plymouth Whalers have announced the hiring of Jim Debenham and Norm Robert to the team's scouting staff.

Debenham, in a sense, is coming home to Plymouth. He worked as the Whalers' director of scouting from 2002-09 before moving to Sarnia in the same position over the past three seasons.

Robert worked in Peterborough as a scout from 1996-2010 before moving to Sudbury as the Wolves’ scouting director for the past two seasons.

“We welcome Jim back,” said Plymouth coach-GM Mike Vellucci. “He brings a lot of experience and he already knows what kind of player we want to play Whaler hockey. Norm has a ton of experience in the Toronto area. I look forward to getting to know him and work with him.”

Debenham and Robert worked for the Central Scouting Bureau before moving on to Ontario Hockey League.

Blum named to Saginaw coaching staff

The Saginaw Spirit have announced that the team has hired Jeff Blum to assume an assistant coaching position with the team.

With this appointment, the Spirit also confirm that George Daniel will not be returning for the 2012-13 season as an assistant coach.

Blum’s duties will primarily center on working with the Spirit’s defense corps and he will join fellow assistant John Kisil and head coach Greg Gilbert on the bench this season.

Following a career that spanned four years at the University of Illinois-Chicago where he captained his collegiate team, the Warren native spent parts of five seasons in the Colonial, International and United Hockey Leagues.

Traverse City adds Howell goalie Goulah

The Traverse City Cohos have signed a few players to score goals.

And now they’ve inked one to prevent them.

Bryce Goulah joined the fold this week and the former Howell High School goaltender says he’s looking forward to donning TC black, blue and silver.

“Junior hockey is a good stepping stone to the next levels,” said the 6-foot, 185-pound netkeep. “And I know coach (Scott) Gardiner and know he’s committed to moving kids on. My goal is to play at the NCAA Division I level, to get an education and hopefully further my playing career.”

Goulah went 9-1-1 during the 2011-12 regular season with the Highlanders, sporting a 1.76 goals-against average and .922 save percentage while leading the team to a district final before bowing out to eventual state champion Brighton.

“We’re hoping for big things from Bryce,” said Gardiner, who was an assistant coach at Howell a year ago. “I know what he can do, what he’s capable of and how we envision the next stage of his development. It’s a real boon for us to get him here.”

Goulah spent Tuesday in Traverse City, checking out the region, Centre ICE Arena and Traverse City Central High School– where the senior-to-be will attend classes beginning this fall.

“It’s a great area with great atmosphere,” Goulah explained. “With a new team in a new league that really looks like a solid model, I hope to be able to acclimate to the speed and physical demands and contribute to a lot of wins.”

Goulah is acquainted with at least one of his new teammates. He and current TC forward Alex Grizzel were classmates a year ago when Grizzel lived downstate during a midget major stint.

While his style is admittedly “very unorthodox,” Goulah says he prides himself on his ability to maintain posture while getting between puck and twine.

“I’d say it’s a little bit of a non-traditional, Tim Thomas-style of goaltending,” he offered. “But I can control my body, something even Thomas can struggle with. Hopefully, what has helped me be successful at other levels of the game can help me in Traverse City as well.”

Brownlee looks to fit in with Hounds

It’s often said that a successful hockey teams builds from the net out.

For the Hartland Hounds, that means starting with goaltender Andrew Brownlee.

An 18-year-old Howell native (he turns 19 later this month), Brownlee signed a tender agreement with the Hounds earlier this summer after jumping at the opportunity to play for a team so close to home.

“When the Hounds came about, I thought that would be the perfect opportunity to play close to home and still have the chance to possibly play some sort or college hockey and a chance at some sort of scholarship,” explained Brownlee, who saw brief time at the junior level last season with the Metro Jets of the North American 3 Hockey League. “I like the pace of play at the junior level because I feel more in the game when the pace of play is faster.”

Hartland head coach Randy Montrose is also someone Brownlee is familiar with having played under Montrose at Howell High School.

“I think we are here to get our best chance at moving on in the hockey world to the next level with the amount of connections Randy has,” explained Brownlee. “I expect Randy to be there as a coach this season and no one’s friend because he’s a very competitive guy and wants to do nothing but win.”

That certainly bodes well for Brownlee, who said he models his game after NHL Hall of Fame goalie Patrick Roy. “I love to battle when I step on the ice,” Brownlee said. “I need to get myself to compete in practice as much as I do in a game because practice is where you get better and try new things and maybe if I get a better in practice, my game could improve a little bit in games as well. This year, I want to have a better season than the last because I always want to improve in anything I do.”

That said, Brownlee knows hockey is a team game and wants nothing more than to be a contributing factor in any success the Hounds may have this year during the inaugural season of the Midwest Junior Hockey League.

“My expectations this year are to not only make the playoffs, but to also win the playoffs and represent our league at nationals,” said Brownlee. “I’d like to win nationals as well.”

Big goals from a competitive player can only mean big things for the Hounds this season.

Whalers trade for Soo defender Curcuruto

The Plymouth Whalers announced today the acquisition of 18-year-old defenseman Gianluca Curcuruto from the Sault Ste. Marie Greyhounds in exchange for 17-year-old left wing Mitchell Dempsey and 16-year center Dylan Mascarin.

“With three defensemen leaving from last year’s team, we were looking to add more experience to our defense,” said Plymouth coach-GM Mike Vellucci. “Curcuruto is a young veteran who will help.”

Curcuruto was originally selected by Sault Ste. Marie in the first round (14th overall) of the 2010 Ontario Hockey League Priority Selection. He played for Team Ontario at the 2011 World Under-17 Championships.

In two seasons with the Greyhounds, Curcuruto has scored four goals with 38 assists for 42 points and 62 penalty minutes in 119 games.

Curcuruto was selected in the seventh round (182nd overall) by the Columbus Blue Jackets in the 2012 National Hockey League Entry Draft.

Dempsey was originally selected by Plymouth in the first round (11th overall) in the 2011 OHL draft and scored a goal with four assists for five points in 34 games last season as a rookie. Mascarin was originally taken by Plymouth in the fifth round (93rd overall) in 2011.

Curcuruto is expected to report to Plymouth’s training camp in late August.

Photo/CHL Images

'Jacks running underwater marathon

While they prepare for the 2012-13 USHL regular season, the Muskegon Lumberjacks will donate their time and effort to help some of our country’s MVPs.

With the assistance of Mercy Athletic Performance, the Lumberjacks will take part in the first-ever HydroWorx Underwater Marathon on Sunday, Sept. 9. Funds raised by the event will go directly to the Eagle Fund, which helps wounded special forces soldiers get the treatment they need to properly rehabilitate.

Lumberjacks players, coaches and staff members will combine to complete a full 26.2-mile marathon on a HydroWorx underwater treadmill at the Mercy Campus in Muskegon. The runners will be linked via video to Hershey, Pa., where the majority of the charity event will be held.

The Jacks will be running in the second “heat” of the event at 1:30 p.m.

Fans looking to support the team can stop by the Mercy Campus at 1400 Mercy Drive. The Mercy Athletic Performance Center is the official training center of the Muskegon Lumberjacks.

Second-year Lumberjacks athletic trainer Josh Bennett first heard of this event earlier this summer at the National Athletic Trainers Association’s annual conference in St. Louis.

“Once I saw what it was all about, I needed to find a way to get our team involved,” Bennett said. “It just so happened that Mercy had a HydroWorx pool, so we were able to organize it.”

Bennett’s goal is to raise $2,500 for the Eagle Fund through online contributions. Fans can donate funds and monitor the team’s progress at www.crowdrise.com/MuskegonLumberjacks.

The marathon has the expressed goal of raising $100,000 toward getting wounded warriors back in action via pro sports-quality rehabilitation. The HydroWorx treadmill effectively removes about 80 percent of a person’s body weight through the natural buoyancy of water. Because of this, running on the apparatus is remarkably low-impact and comfortable. For more information on the event, visit www.underwatermarathon.com.

Jets' Reid hangs up skates, going to WMU

Just when Adam Reid thought he couldn’t catch a break, he did.

After the steady defenseman played last season for the Metro Jets of the North American 3 Hockey League, he had planned on moving up to the North American Hockey League with the New Mexico Mustangs, the team that signed him to a tender contract midway through last season.

Then this offseason, the Mustangs folded.

No worries. Reid attended a handful of other NAHL camps and was weighing several offers.

Then his doctor wouldn’t clear him to play hockey after a series of concussions in a short window of time left him as a player who was one hit away from not living a pain-free life.

With his skates hung up, Reid decided to enroll at Western Michigan University on a full-time basis and on a whim, landed himself a job working with the Broncos’ Division I hockey team.

“You can’t beat working with (WMU coach and longtime NHL coach) Andy Murray,” said Reid, who recorded two goals and nine points in 45 games last season with the Jets. “It’s hard to be done playing competitive hockey, but at least I’m staying involved. I’m looking forward to it.”

Reid will also stay on with the Jets in a special projects capacity.

Reid, originally from Kalamazoo, lived in Texas the better part of the last 14 years after his father’s job uprooted the family. He sat out all but four games of the 2010-11 season with concussion issues, but came to the Jets last year and was one of the team’s more consistent stay-at-home defenders.

“Last season was probably the most fun I’ve had playing hockey,” said the 20-year-old Reid. “The guys on the team were close, almost like brothers. I learned so much from (Jets head coach) Jason (Cirone) and I wouldn’t trade last year for anything. Things happen for a reason and even if I can’t keep playing hockey, I’m glad the opportunity came up at Western where I can still be around the game and get a great education.

“Above all, thank you to my wonderful parents, who ensured I had every opportunity to try and succeed. I am reminded of how special this game is, the colossal impact it has had on me in my life and how fortunate I was to step onto that ice for the last 16 years.”

Homegrown Bodziak ready for Hounds

Zak Bodziak grew up skating out of the Hartland Sports Center and can’t wait to get back on the ice in his hometown.

Bodziak, a signed tender of the Hartland Hounds, graduated from Hartland High School in 2011 and played four years for the hockey team there. After taking the college route last year at Davenport University, where Bodziak played club hockey, the 19-year-old forward is looking forward to playing for the Hounds in the brand-new Midwest Junior Hockey League this fall.

“When I heard there was going to be a junior team in Hartland, I was immediately excited,” said Bodziak. “I always wanted to play juniors, but right out of high school, I went to college, which wasn’t a bad choice, but now that this opportunity in Hartland has come up, I think it’s an excellent situation for people in Hartland and the area to come out and see a new level of hockey.

“A lot of people only watch hockey up to Bantams and Midgets and even high school, but Junior A hockey is a very high level and I think we’ll have a very exciting team this season.”

Playing for Hounds coach Randy Montrose, who guided Howell High School to two straight state finals appearances in 2009 and 2010 and moved numerous players to junior and college hockey, was also an enticing factor for Bodziak to see what the MWJHL is all about.

“I definitely have a lot of respect for Randy and I think his track record speaks for itself,” Bodziak said. “He’s a guy that from what I’ve seen and heard is someone I can trust and someone who understands the game at this level. I played against his Howell teams in high school and he always had those guys ready to go. I’m excited to get the season going.”

Having already played a year of college hockey, Bodziak is hoping to use the Hounds as a spring-board to future college hockey opportunities.

“My ultimate goal, much like everyone else’s goal, is to go to school and play competitive hockey,” explained Bodziak. “I’m not looking for any huge offers to come my way this season. I just want to go out and play hockey, play my game, and if I play the way I know I can play and put up some decent numbers, I think the college offers will take care of themselves.”

Aside from points this coming season, Bodziak wants to be a leader with the Hounds and perhaps serve as a mentor for some of the younger players on the team.

“I already know a couple guys on the team and I don’t see chemistry being a problem – we should come together pretty quickly,” Bodziak said. “I’ve been fortunate to be a captain on teams in the past and I feel that I’ve learned and grown from those experiences and I can come in here and be a guy people can come to with problems or advice or things like that.

“I think being a leader comes with pressure, but I like that pressure. To be honest, I don’t see it as pressure, but more as motivation to go out and get the job done. We’ll see what happens, but I’m definitely excited.”

Bodziak said that even with him being “a little bit of a stats guy,” he’d gladly sacrifice personal glory if it means more notches in the win column for the Hounds.

“Winning hockey games is what it’s all about and why we play this game,” said Bodziak. “Yeah, I’d like to be at the top of the list getting points for my team, but every shift, I’m giving 120 percent, blocking shots, doing whatever it takes to help the team win.

“We should have a pretty good team this year and it’s one I think can compete for a national championship. Once this team comes together, I think we’ll be tough to play against and one that can hopefully be at the top of the MWJHL standings.”

Lumberjacks unveil new team logo

The Muskegon Lumberjacks have announced the debut of a new primary logo.

The freshly-created mark will be implemented immediately.

The new design centers around the award-winning logo introduced by the IHL Lumberjacks in 2008 and used by the third-year USHL club throughout its existence.

While the recognizable stylized lumberjack is in the center of the new logo, the outer edge is a modified version of the popular “saw blade” design the team revealed last season. In the new primary logo, the lumberjack replaces the italicized ‘M’ in the middle of the blade.

“As an organization, we have worked extremely hard to maintain a brand our community can associate with and be proud of,” said Lumberjacks president Tim Taylor. “Therefore, it was important to maintain the lumberjack figure while introducing the saw blade design into the primary mark.”

The logo will be put to use on official Lumberjacks merchandise and will be emblematic of the franchise as it looks toward its third season in the USHL.

“The saw blade design received such an overwhelmingly positive response when it was introduced as our secondary logo last season that we felt it had to become part of our primary mark,” Taylor said.

Belle Tire U-16 stud Perlini chooses OHL

The Barrie Colts announced on Thursday that they have signed forward Brendan Perlini to an Ontario Hockey League contract.

“It’s very exciting for me and my family," said Perlini. "It's such a big deal for us to be part of the Barrie Colts organization.”

The Colts selected the forward with the 16th overall pick in the 2012 OHL Priority Selection.

“We are extremely excited about Brendan joining the organization,” said Barrie GM Jason Ford. “He is a player that brings a tremendous skill-set. He is one of the strongest skaters for his age group and has exceptional puck skills and hockey sense.”

Last season Perlini, a Shelby Township native who moved a year ago from his Sault Ste. Marie, Ont., home, notched 44 points in 40 games for the Detroit Belle Tire U16’s, and said he will be ready for training camp.

“Well I want to come in fully prepared for training camp and really show the coaches what I can do,” said Perlini. "I think with my skating and puck-handling abilities I will have a lot to offer the team."

Earlier this month, Perlini attended Team Ontario's Under-17 provincial camp.

“Under-17 was such a great experience for me,” acknowledged Perlini. “I got to play with a lot of great players and it really helped my development to see how other players handle themselves on and off the ice.”

“We feel Brendan has just scratched the surface as to what he can be as a hockey player,” added Ford. “We are very pleased today that Brendan has made this commitment.”

Spirit inks second import pick in Alexeev

The Saginaw Spirit announced today that the team has signed Russian-born forward Andrey Alexeev to a standard Ontario Hockey League contract.

The 1995-born left winger was selected by the Spirit as the 33rd overall pick in the 2012 CHL Import Draft.

Alexeev follows fellow countryman and import selection goaltender Nikita Serebryakov in committing to the Spirit program this week, joining OHL Priority Selection picks Jeremiah Addison, Brandon Prophet and Dylan Sadowy as signed prospects for Saginaw.

Having participated in a number of national team events, Alexeev was also a teammate of Serebryakov for Team Russia in the 2011 Four Nations Tournament where he was one of the team’s top scorers.

Alexeev and Serebryakov were both chosen in the second round of the most recent KHL Draft.

Alexeev is expected to be in attendance when the Spirit open their 2012-13 season training camp in late August.

Cohos open inaugural MWJHL camp

The pursuit of hockey hardware by the bay begins in earnest again on Friday as the Traverse City Cohos kick off their inaugural open camp at Centre ICE Arena.

The first-year Cohos are expecting better than 30 players from around the area, state and Midwest, as head coach Scott Gardiner begins to sculpt the roster.

“We have some outstanding players already signed, but we’re still looking for quite a few as well,” Gardiner explained. “It’s exciting to finally get to the on-ice stuff, get the coaches and scouts together and have a look at the talent. There are still quite a few USHL and NAHL camps going on, so it’ll be an ongoing process, but these camps are indispensable in terms of finding the best players to send out there when the season opens.”

Players will check in on Friday afternoon before the opening session at Centre ICE from 7-9 p.m. The teams will face off again on Saturday from 8-10 a.m. and 3-5 p.m. Gardiner and staff will conduct player interviews following the afternoon session on Saturday.

“We hope to have a few more guys signed, and continue to expand our reach and continue the process beyond that,” Gardiner added.

Flint captain Lay makes D-III choice

The Flint Jr. Generals of the NA3HL have announced that captain Andrew Lay is taking his talents to Wisconsin to Lawrence University and will play for the Vikings next year.

“Andy was a coach’s dream as a leader in the locker room and on the ice," said Flint coach Jeff Worlton. "He also takes pride in his substantial development at both ends of the ice."

"Andy being our local product makes the Flint area proud also," added Flint GM Kelly Cronk.

Lay was very humble when discussing his latest accomplishment.

"None of this would be possible without the solid support from my dad, Greg, and mom, Helene," said Lay. "(Lawrence coach) Mike Szkodzinski and (assistant coach) Kalle Larsson made the transitions required easy at this beautiful school. Not to mention the action-packed rivalry I witnessed between Adrian and Lawrence and the level of play just made me even more excited to get to work.

"The hockey program and the high levels of academics also stands out on my visit, which was a must for me and my parents."

Metro pick Tilford has tools to succeed

Mike Tilford was the lone goaltender drafted by the Metro Jets in last month’s North American 3 Hockey League draft and while the Traverse City native still has no idea where he’ll play next season, the door is wide open for him to hone his skills in Waterford.

Tilford was a Second Team All-State player in 2011-12 at Traverse City West High School and was selected by the Jets in the 11th round (182nd overall).

“From a personal standpoint, I had a very good season and earned a couple awards,” said Tilford. “From a team standpoint, it was not real successful. We were an extremely young team and lost in the first round of the playoffs.”

“Randy Wilson and Sean Clark recommended Tilford to us and one thing that Randy said is that the kid blocks pucks,” said Metro coach Jason Cirone. “That’s a good thing for a goalie, right? He’ll have a shot to play in the NAHL, but if you look at our track record in moving goalies on, I think he’d be a good fit as a Metro Jet.”

On NA3HL draft day, Tilford was shocked to see his name come up on the screen during the online draft process.

”I have worked with Randy (Wilson) in the past, but I was unaware the Jets were looking at drafting me,” Tilford said. “I do not know very much about the Jets at all and to be honest, all I really know about the NA3HL is that it is a good stepping stone for the NAHL.”

Traverse City West is the home of former Jets’ first-round pick Vinnie Pietrangelo, who played on the back end in Waterford during the 2009-10 season and will be a junior at Finlandia University this fall.

 “I know Vinnie a little, mostly just from playing with him at drop-in and such,” added Tilford.

This fall, Tilford has an option to play Midget AAA hockey with the Oakland Jr. Grizzlies, but knows that where he skates for the 2012-13 season is still up in the air at this point of the summer.

“My expectations for next year, wherever I may end up, are that I have a successful season,” said Tilford. “I also want to gain exposure from NAHL and USHL teams.”

Saginaw signs Russian goalie Serebryakov

The Saginaw Spirit announced today that the team has signed Russian-born goaltender Nikita Serebryakov to a standard Ontario Hockey League contract.

The 1995-born native of Moscow was selected 18th overall in the 2012 CHL Import Draft after spending this past season with the Moscow Dynamo junior program.

Serebryakov was also selected in the recent KHL Draft in the second round by the Moscow Dynamo.

Serebryakov was a standout at the 2012 World Under-17 Challenge in leading Russia to the gold medal at the tournament staged in Windsor, Ont. In five games at the event, he posted five wins, a goals-against average of 2.72 and a save percentage of .930.

Serebryakov is expected to be in attendance when the Spirit open their 2012-13 training camp in late August.

Falcons' Megariotis off to Ohio State

Port Huron Fighting Falcons' goaltender Peter Megariotis will play Division I hockey after all.

According to Randy Russon at JuniorHockey.com, Megariotis is off to Ohio State this fall after originally looking at playing Division III puck at Adrian.

More here: Port Huron to Ohio State

Photo/Krista Ketterer

K-Zoo captain Leone chooses Adrian

The Kalamazoo Jr. K-Wings have announced that forward and captain Chris Leone has committed to play collegiate hockey at Adrian College.

Last season with the Jr. K-Wings, Leone registered 28 points (four goals, 24 assists) and had a plus/minus rating of plus-12 in 59 games.

Keeping his scoring prowess in the NAHL playoffs, Leone notched six points (goal, five assists) in eight postseason contests.

Leone is now the seventh Jr. K-Wing who has committed to play hockey at the college level. The defenseman joins Alex Brooks (Wisconsin-Stevens Point), Austin Hervey (Western Michigan), Drew Graves (Wisconsin-Stevens Point), Ken MacLean (Rochester Institute of Technology), Chad McDonald (Ferris State) and Brock Raffaele (Bethel).

Warriors' trio makes D-III hockey plans

Three more players from the Michigan Warriors of the North American Hockey League have been offered scholarships to play Division III college hockey.

The team announced recently that forward Bobby Bodette will play for Adrian College, defenseman Ben Gislason will play for St. Olaf College and defenseman Derek Knetter will play for the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire.

Warriors alumni who will play for NCAA Division I programs this fall include forward Justin Hoomaian (Michigan State), defenseman Michael Szuma (Michigan), goaltender Robert Tadazak (Army), defenseman Ryan Trenz (Northern Michigan) and defenseman A.J. White (Massachusetts-Lowell).

Bodette (‘91), of Garden, played 106 games with the Warriors and tallied 11 goals and 19 assists for a total of 30 points. He helped the Warriors advance to play for an NAHL championship in 2011.

Knetter (‘92), of Wausau, Wis., played in 33 games with the Warriors and tallied a goal and five assists for a total of six points. He competed in the NAHL Top Prospects Tournament in Troy earlier this year.

Gislason (‘91), of Burnsville, Minn., played in 44 games with the Warriors tallying three goals and two assists for a total of five points.

“Michigan Warriors hockey is all about helping promising young players like Bobby, Ben and Derek take their skills to the next level, which for many means playing college hockey,” said Warriors head coach Moe Mantha. “The effort these guys put in to develop their skills on the ice and to keep their grades up is incredible. The Warriors organization is proud to see them earn a chance to continue their careers.”

Jets' Hillman looking for expanded role

Trevor Hillman only played four games for the Metro Jets last year, but should have a bigger role this upcoming season.

Hillman, the Jets’ top draft pick (third overall) in the 2011 North American 3 Hockey League draft, signed a tender to return to Waterford next season. He also has the option of playing midget hockey for Compuware, but junior hockey with Metro is where Hillman feels he can most improve his overall game.

“I didn’t have to really put much thought into signing the tender,” said Hillman, an 18-year-old from Beverly Hills. “I played games with the team last year, so I knew they had a winning mindset. Having some of the defense from last year leaving the team means I could step up this year and be the shutdown defenseman they look to in all situations.”

Even after making the jump from AAA hockey with the Detroit Falcons (pictured) to the Jets a year ago, Hillman realized it can take some time to adjust to the new style of game.

 “I learned there is a big difference,” said Hillman, who tallied two assists in his time with the Jets in 2011-12. “The size of the guys and their skill and speed is all a big step up. I just have to continue training and working on my game for the upcoming season. Last year was a good experience for me. (Jets’ head coach) Jason (Cirone) taught me a lot and so did a lot of the older guys.”

Recently, the NA3HL has sent numerous players on to higher levels of hockey, including the United States Hockey League, North American Hockey League and even college hockey.

Hillman wants his name on that list a year from now.

”My expectations for me are what all kids want, to just keep moving up the junior ranks into the USHL,” said Hillman. “Personally, it’s always been a dream of mine to play in the Ontario Hockey League someday.”

As for what he has listed as goals for next season, Hillman is succinct.

“From a team standpoint, I’m hoping to win a lot of games,” said Hillman, “And win a championship.”

Tennyson staff involved in community

The Tennyson Chevrolet junior hockey club is wasting no time having its presence felt in the community.

Shortly after making the announcement that the team would be making the Ice Box Sports Center their home, general manager Dan Vasquez and team president Keith Lang announced affiliations with Midget, Bantam and Mite programs in the area.

“We don't take the word ‘affiliation’ lightly,” stated Lang. “Our staff and players are going to be part of these teams’ development and instruction process both on ice and off ice. We believe that we have a responsibility to be mentors and examples. Our goal is to create a self-cycling system that will create a development system of training, mentoring and support for children of all ages, but the emphasis of the program is not just about hockey; it's about school and giving all of the kids in the area a sense of community."

Teams that have been selected as affiliated programs thus far include the Hurricanes Midget A Hockey Club, Motor City Machine Bantam AA Hockey Club and the Tennyson Chevrolet Mites.

 In addition, the club also is involved in the “Learn to Skate” and “Learn to Play Hockey” programs that began its summer session this past week at the Ice Box. The program, which takes place Thursday evenings, is open to any beginner who wishes to learn to skate and learn the basics of playing hockey. The program is being headed up by the Tennyson coaching staff and several of the team’s players.

'Jacks announce roster, affiliate list

Following June’s tryout camp at L.C. Walker Arena, the Muskegon Lumberjacks were forced to make difficult decisions.

Those choices have been made, resulting in the following initial roster, plus affiliate list players who can be added to the roster at any time.

The Lumberjacks will now head into training camp in late August, after which they will begin their third season in the United States Hockey League.

The following players are sorted by position and in alphabetical order:

GOALTENDERS
Tyler Ross, Warren
Hayden Stewart, Rockford, Ill.

DEFENSEMEN
Rasmus Bengtsson, Landskrona, Sweden (FLA 2011)
Jack Burton, Reisertown, Md.
Carter Foguth, Fenton
Niklas Folin, Goteborg, Sweden
Patrick Koudys, Smithville, Ont. (WAS 2011)
Chris Leibinger, Saginaw (Michigan Tech recruit)
Mike Preston, Carmel, Ind.
Ben Storm, Calumet
Zach Yoder, Woodstock, Ga.

FORWARDS
Riley Alferd, Vancouver, Wash.
Joe Cox, Chelsea (Michigan State recruit)
Brett D’Andrea, Marysville (Bowling Green recruit)
Brandon Flood, Okemos
Ben Foster, Darien, Conn. (Princeton recruit)
Adam Gilmour, Hanover, Mass. (Boston College recruit/MIN 2012)
Tyler Heinonen, Delano, Minn. (Michigan Tech recruit)
Tyler Hill, Hagersville, Ont.
Cullen Hurley, Eagan, Minn.
Mason Jobst, Speedway, Ind.
Chad McDonald, Battle Creek (Ferris State recruit)
William Messa, Parkland, Fla.
Max Shuart, Northville (Michigan recruit)
Alex Talcott, Kentwood (Michigan recruit)
Frederik Tiffels, Cologne, Germany

The affiliate list consists of New York Islanders' draft pick Doyle Somerby, Minnesota recruit Mike Brodzinski and Western Michigan commit Corey Schueneman, plus Dylan Malmquist, Connor Hurley, Conor Garland, Chase Phelps, John Peterson, Steven Spinner, Corey Ronan, Luc Snuggerud, Tristan Rostagno and Jack Dougherty.

Familiar face back in Traverse City

The newest addition to the Traverse City Cohos sports a familiar visage.

Jake Erway, a former Traverse City Central High School star who later played for the Traverse City Enforcers and Traverse City North Stars junior teams, has joined the Cohos as an assistant coach and account executive.

Erway, who recently returned to the area after living in Chicago for the past few years while attending Columbia College, says hockey was a motivating factor in his homecoming.

“I didn’t have any contact with hockey while I was in Chicago and I really wanted to get back in the game and start coaching,” said Erway, 26. “I thought I’d be starting at the youth level, but when I heard (Cohos owner and head coach) Scott (Gardiner) had a junior team up here, it presented a unique opportunity.”

Erway, a two-time all-region selection at TC Central, captained the Trojans for two seasons before joining the Enforcers of the Continental Elite Hockey League. He appeared in 11 games for the Enforcers in 2003-04, registered 11 goals and 25 points over 33 games with the Blind River Beavers of the Northern Ontario Junior Hockey League the following season, and wrapped his junior career with the North Stars in 2005-06, collecting eight goals and assisting on 18 others in 48 contests.

“Jake was a solid guy on the ice, in the locker room and in the community,” said Gardiner, who coached Erway during both TC junior stints. “Players that have his kind of make-up usually get into coaching and are successful at teaching and managing the game from behind the bench as well. It’s a real boon for us to be able to bring Jake into the fold. He brings a lot of great qualities to the organization.”

While Erway will get to start his coaching career at the Junior A level, he says that his experiences as a player lend valuable insights while behind the proverbial bench.

“I always tried to be a student of the game and learn all I could,” he explained. “What I may not have had in the way of raw talent, I always tried to make up for by working hard and playing a smart game. Hopefully, I can help instill some of that – helping guys develop on the ice as players and off the ice as human beings. One thing about having played for Scott is that I learned a lot about the game from him, but just as important is what we learned from him about being a good human being. Those are things I’ll strive to pass along as well.”

The Cohos will kick off their inaugural tryout camp July 20-21 at Centre ICE Arena. Gardiner, along with assistant coaches Jacek Wilk and Erway – along with the club’s network of scouts – will evaluate players as they go head-to-head in an attempt to be among the first to don the Cohos sweaters.

“It’s a chance for us to find guys who can develop and grow to move on to the next level, whether that’s juniors, college, or wherever,” Erway added. “We’re all pretty excited to get started.”

Jets' top pick Gambino a proven winner

The Metro Jets had the 11th overall pick in the North American 3 Hockey League draft back on June 5, but couldn’t wait 10 picks to make their first selection.

Instead, the Jets made a draft day trade with the Quad City Jr. Flames to move up to No. 5 and with that pick, Metro grabbed Livonia Churchill High School forward Mike Gambino.

 “We didn’t think Gambino would be there when we picked at No. 11 and he was the player we wanted,” said Jets’ coach Jason Cirone. “He’s highly-skilled and came from the same high school program (Metro top scorer from 2011-12) Steve Klisz came from a year ago. I saw him play a couple times and I think he could play in the North American Hockey League next season, but if not, he’ll have options with us and we’ll certainly do all we can to move him, as well as the rest of our players, to the next level.”

“It is a great honor to be drafted fifth by the Metro Jets,” said a humble Gambino, a Second Team All-State pick in 2011-12. “I was really surprised when I saw I went that early. To be honest, I don’t know much about the league itself, but I have heard that the Metro Jets is a great organization and has an awesome coach in Jason Cirone. Before the draft, my dad and I talked to Steve Klisz’s dad about the league and he helped us out in giving us some information.”

In minor hockey, Gambino twice went to the state tournament (Livonia Knights Pee Wee and Livonia Flyers Bantam) and won back-to-back regional titles at Churchill in 2011 and 2012. He also played in the prestigious State Games in 2011, winning gold. This past spring, Gambino skated with Team Michigan where he was part of the championship-winning team at the CCM NIT in Minnesota.

Admittedly, Gambino has his sights on playing in the NAHL this fall and as Cirone said, the talent level is certainly there.

"I would describe myself as a two-way forward,” Gambino said. “I know how to put up points, but I love to hit and play a very physical game. My main goal is to play in the NAHL, so that’s what I am focusing on right now. I haven’t really thought about what I would do if I didn’t make an NAHL team, so we’ll see how everything works out.

“Wherever I wind up, I would like to be a first- or second-line player with some special teams’ opportunities.”

Jr. K-Wings' Brooks commits to UWSP

The Kalamazoo Jr. K-Wings have announced that defenseman Alex Brooks has committed to play collegiate hockey at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point.

Brooks posted eight points (three goals, five assists) and had a plus/minus rating of plus-8 in 21 games with the Jr. K-Wings.

Before coming to Kalamazoo, Brooks started the season with the Aberdeen Wings, where he notched 17 points (three goals, 14 points) in 35 games.

The native of Grand Rapids will join former Jr. K-Wing Drew Graves, who committed to UWSP earlier in the offseason.

Brooks is now the sixth Jr. K-Wing who has committed to play hockey at the college level, joining Austin Hervey (Western Michigan), Graves, Ken MacLean (Rochester Institute of Technology), Chad McDonald (Ferris State) and Brock Raffaele (Bethel University).

Photo (Brooks with Janesville) courtesy NAHL

Carrick signs with Whalers after all

The Plymouth Whalers announced the commitment of 18-year-old defenseman Connor Carrick, who signed a standard Ontario Hockey League contract today with the Whalers.

“We’re really excited to have Connor come to Plymouth,” Plymouth coach-GM Mike Vellucci said. “He’s got a great opportunity to continue his education while playing in the best developmental league in the World. With Beau Schmitz leaving, Connor fills a need as an offensive defenseman who will help our power play.”

Carrick’s rights were acquired by the Whalers on Wednesday from the Guelph Storm in exchange for a sixth round draft choice in the 2013 OHL Priority Selection. Carrick was originally taken by Guelph in the 11th round (212th overall) of the 2010 OHL draft and had committed to the University of Michigan for this fall.

“From a hockey perspective, I believe that the Plymouth Whalers offer the best opportunity for me to reach my dreams in this game,” Carrick said today in a telephone interview. “You have a great team (in Plymouth) and I’m hoping to add to it. I felt it was a great fit and I’m very excited to make this decision.

“It seemed it (the decision to come to Plymouth) was a no-brainer – both my hockey and my schooling will be in great hands. The underlying message is I’m very excited. I definitely lost some sleep over a couple of nights, but I’m confident in moving forward this is what’s best for me.”

Carrick – 5-feet-11 and 187 pounds and from Orland Park, Ill. – was selected by the Washington Capitals in the fifth round (137th overall) of the recent 2012 National Hockey League Entry Draft. He has played over the last two seasons with National Team Development Program in Ann Arbor. Last season, Carrick scored eight goals with 13 assists for 21 points in 57 games for the NTDP U-18’s. In 2010-11, Carrick scored four goals with 16 assists for 20 points in 55 games for the NTDP U-17’s.

In August, Carrick will be joining Plymouth teammates Ryan Hartman, J.T. Miller and Stefan Noesen as they participate in the USA Hockey National Junior Evaluation Camp. The camp is an audition for a spot on the U.S. National Junior Team that will play in the 2013 International Ice Hockey Federation World Junior Championship, Dec. 26, 2012-Jan. 5, 2013, in Ufa, Russia.

Photo courtesy Getty Images/Washington Capitals

Muskegon adds to management team

The Muskegon Lumberjacks have announced that experienced sports executive Patrick Day will join their front office as chief operating officer on July 9.

Day spent the last six seasons as general manager of the Lansing Lugnuts baseball team, part of the Midwest League and current Class A affiliate of Major League Baseball’s Toronto Blue Jays.

He joins the Lumberjacks’ management team, which features owner/CEO Josh Mervis and president Tim Taylor.

“I believe the addition of Pat, along with Tim Taylor, will help our franchise reach the level of excellence that we are committed to achieving,” Mervis said. “Pat’s experience and past successes have uniquely prepared him to help lead our program.”

Day oversaw the entire Lugnuts operation after his 2007 arrival in Michigan’s capital city. The Lugnuts frequently rank among the attendance leaders in minor-league baseball and have established themselves as a valued part of the Lansing community.

“I am excited to join the Lumberjacks,” Day said of his hiring. “I look forward to bringing my 13 years of professional sports experience to continue to grow the business. I want to ensure the Lumberjacks are the preeminent affordable family option in the Muskegon area for years to come.”

Day, 37, began his career with the Charleston (W.Va.) Alley Cats of the Class A South Atlantic League, overseeing ticket revenue streams as assistant GM. He then moved into a similar role with the Montgomery (Ala.) Biscuits of the Southern League, a franchise that twice claimed Baseball America’s Class AA franchise of the year award while he was there.

“The entire Lumberjacks staff did a wonderful job last season,” Day said. “The investment Josh Mervis has put into L.C. Walker Arena is incredible and I look forward to making sure the entire community, including families, youth teams, churches and schools, know what a great atmosphere it is for them to bond and create memories.”

Day grew up in western Massachusetts, then attended Concord University in West Virginia, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in mass communications with a focus on public relations and advertising.

He and his wife, Erica, have a 14-month-old daughter named Emerson.

“The hiring of Pat is just another sign of the long-term commitment that we have for our program here in Muskegon,” Mervis said. “We intend to make an impact on and off the ice, bringing value to our fans, corporate partners, and the community as a whole.”

Defender Carrick reporting to Whalers?

The Plymouth Whalers announced Wednesday the acquisition of 18-year-old defenseman Connor Carrick's rights from the Guelph Storm in exchange for a sixth round draft choice in the 2013 Ontario Hockey League Priority Selection.

Carrick was originally selected by Guelph in the 11th round (212th overall) of the 2010 OHL Priority Selection.

Carrick – 5-feet-11 and 187 pounds and from Orland Park, Ill. – was selected by the Washington Capitals in the fifth round (137th overall) of the recent 2012 National Hockey League Entry Draft.

He has played over the last two seasons with National Team Development Program in Ann Arbor and has committed to the University of Michigan for this fall. Last season, Carrick scored eight goals with 13 assists for 21 points in 57 games for the NTDP U-18’s. In 2010-11, Carrick scored four goals with 16 assists for 20 points in 55 games for the NTDP U-17’s.

In August, Carrick will be joining Plymouth teammates Ryan Hartman, J.T. Miller and Stefan Noesen as they participate in the USA Hockey national junior evaluation camp. The camp is an audition for a spot on the U.S. National Junior Team that will play in the 2013 International Ice Hockey Federation World Junior Championship, Dec. 26, 2012-Jan. 5, 2013, in Ufa, Russia.

Earlier today, the Whalers participated in the annual Canadian Hockey League Import Draft and selected two defensemen from Sweden. With the 21st pick, the Whalers took 17-year-old defenseman Ludvig Bystrom, who taken by the Dallas Stars in the second round (43rd overall) in the 2012 NHL Entry Draft.

Later, the Whalers moved up in the draft in a trade with Mississauga to take 18-year-old defenseman Simon Karlsson with the 90th selection. Karlsson was originally selected by the Nashville Predators in the fifth round of the 2011 NHL draft.

Photo courtesy MiHockeyNow

Plymouth tabs Bystrom in import draft

The Plymouth Whalers selected Swedish defenseman Ludvig Bystrom with the Whalers' first pick (21st overall) in today's Canadian Hockey League Import Draft.

Bystrom - a 6-foot-1, 175 pound defenseman - was taken by the Dallas Stars in the second round (43rd overall) of last weekend's National Hockey League Entry Draft.

Bystrom, who turns 18 in July, was ranked eighth overall among European prospects by the NHL Central Scouting Bureau for the NHL draft.

Three Whalers drafted in Pittsburgh

Plymouth Whalers right wing Tom Wilson was selected by the Washington Capitals in the first round (16th overall) of the 2012 National Hockey League Entry Draft, held Friday in Pittsburgh.

On Saturday, the Colorado Avalanche selected Whalers center Mitchell Heard in the second round (41st overall) and then right wing Cody Payne went to the Boston Bruins in the fifth round (145th overall).

Heard was succinct in a Twitter message: "Thanks to the best family ever for pushing me to be the best I can be. Love all my friends and family. Happpiest day of my life."

MiHockeyNow has more.

LIST: Whalers selected in the National Hockey League Entry Draft, dating back to 1990.

Wilson photo courtesy MiHockeyNow

DeBlouw headlines Muskegon draft class

In the 1980s and early ‘90s, the Muskegon Lumberjacks provided a pipeline to the National Hockey League via their player development affiliation with the Pittsburgh Penguins.

This past weekend, the Steel City was once again a gateway to hockey’s highest level for Muskegon’s best as five players with connections to the Lumberjacks were selected in the 2012 NHL Draft at CONSOL Energy Center.

Matt DeBlouw, Brendan Woods, Jaycob Megna, Adam Gilmour and Doyle Somerby all had their NHL rights claimed Saturday afternoon.

The proud group was headlined by DeBlouw (pictured), who just finished a two-year stint with the Lumberjacks and heard his name called by the Calgary Flames in Saturday’s seventh round. The Chesterfield native and Michigan State recruit played 97 USHL games (including playoffs) and accumulated 48 points while providing responsible defense from the center position.

 “It’s a great feeling,” the 18-year-old told assembled media members immediately following his selection at No. 186 overall. “All the hard work has paid off and I’m very thankful for everyone that’s been a part of this. It’s a great program in Muskegon and they really developed my game to what it is today.”

DeBlouw was one of three players who honed their skills in Muskegon who went to NHL teams, with 2010-11 Lumberjacks Woods and Megna also getting chosen in the fifth and seventh rounds, respectively.

As the 129th overall choice by the Carolina Hurricanes, Woods was the first former USHL Lumberjack to ever be drafted by an NHL team. As a 6-foot-3 freshman at the University of Wisconsin, Woods dressed in 34 games and put up 10 points. He wrapped up his USHL career with a 26-point effort in Muskegon.

“It’s been a dream of mine since I was a kid,” the power forward prospect Woods said via phone. “I can’t wait to meet the players and everyone in the organization.”

With the second-to-last pick of the NHL Draft, the Anaheim Ducks snagged Megna, a 6-foot-6 defenseman who played 35 games in his first year at the University of Nebraska-Omaha. The Illinois product played in 55 matches for Muskegon two winters ago.

“It’s kind of a whirlwind right now,” Megna said in a text message. “It’s an honor to be drafted and it lets me know that my hard work is paying off. I have a lot of work left to do though!”

Lumberjacks’ first-round USHL Entry Draft pick Gilmour was actually the first Muskegon-connected skater to be announced on the floor at CONSOL Energy Center. He was the 98th name called in the two-day draft, going to the Minnesota Wild early in the fourth round. Gilmour, a 6-foot-2 center who averaged two points per game for Nobles & Greenough school in Massachusetts, was joined by fellow Lumberjacks Entry Draft choice Somerby in the fifth round when the New York Islanders summoned him.

Somerby is a 6-foot-5 defenseman who attended Kimball Union prep in New Hamshire last year. Gilmour (Boston College) and Somerby (Boston University) are both committed to play NCAA Division I hockey, providing evidence that the USHL is a prime avenue for high-end prospects looking to play in the NHL and get a college education.

In all, 47 players with USHL connections were selected either Friday night or Saturday in Pittsburgh and 28 of those players suited up in the USHL during the 2011-12 campaign, while 10 are alumni from prior to last season and nine have been drafted by USHL teams.

Jets' Perks anxious for 2012-13 season

Tim Perks came to the Metro Jets last year as a highly-touted prospect that put up solid numbers at Oxford High School during the 2010-11 season.

Even after a torn ACL sidelined him just prior to last season, Perks didn’t sulk. Instead, he stayed with the Jets all season and went through extensive rehab to help heal his bum knee.

“Sitting out for a season was brutal, especially my first shot at junior hockey,” said Perks, who was drafted by Metro in the fourth round (52nd overall) of the 2011 NA3HL draft. “A lot of people told me it was a setback, but I thought it more as an opportunity to improve my game in all aspects and see hockey in a new perspective. I had some rough moments, but I needed to keep focus to make sure I have a positive comeback."

While he’s still not 100 percent, the Jets offered Perks a tender for this coming season and the 19-year-old signed it without hesitation.

”The docs and therapist said it’s a year-long recovery,” Perks said. “I’m cleared for contact, so I need to make sure I’m not doing anything stupid and focus on recovering. I haven’t played a true hockey game for a team in over a year. I couldn’t be more excited at this point to just be able to play hockey again.”

Oxford High School is getting a reputation for advancing kids on to juniors and college hockey. Perks said that playing for the Wildcats didn’t feel like a typical after-school activity.

”They have a great hockey program and each year, I always hear something new and exciting,” said Perks, who graduated from OHS in 2011. “I believe they love having fun, teaching the kids and making great memories. (Coaches) Dave (Hague) and Rick (Ignagni) treat you like adults and bring in some junior hockey mentality into the program, which helped me out a lot. I’m glad I had the opportunity to learn from that group of guys.”

Perks, who describes himself as a “talented forward who has finesse, but plays physical with a chip on my shoulder,” said he’s anxious for the 2012-13 season to get underway.

“I personally expect a lot out of myself,” said Perks. “I have talent and a good work ethic and there is no reason for me to fall behind even if I have missed a year.”

Muskegon camp helps local economy

More than 200 hockey players competed at L.C. Walker Arena in last week’s Muskegon Lumberjacks tryout camp, but the Muskegon community was the big winner.

Approximately $300,000 was infused into the local economy as players, families, scouts, officials and fans converged upon downtown Muskegon from June 11-17. The estimated total was determined using a formula approved by the Muskegon County Convention and Visitors Bureau.

“Not only is tryout camp a significant step in building next season’s team, it’s also a great way to stimulate business in the community that supports us,” said Lumberjacks owner/general manager Josh Mervis. “Not every team in the USHL conducts its camp in its home market, but we feel it’s important to keep the money it generates here in Muskegon.”

Lumberjacks veterans, draft picks and free agents competed over the course of seven days for the right to make the United States Hockey League franchise’s 2012-13 roster. The players who made the team will return in late August for training camp, which will also be conducted at L.C. Walker Arena.

This year’s tryout camp featured players from all over North America, plus a handful from overseas as well.

Scouts from several NCAA Division I schools (including Michigan and Michigan State) and NHL teams also made the trip to West Michigan to scope out the talent.

“I’d like to thank everyone who made tryout camp a success, from L.C. Walker Arena and Lumberjacks staff to the volunteers who donated their time,” said Mervis.

Novi native Ferriss chooses Connecticut

The Michigan Warriors have announced that forward Joe Ferriss has made a NCAA Division I commitment to play college hockey for the University of Connecticut of the Atlantic Hockey Association.

Ferriss, 19, who is a native of Novi, was the second leading scorer on the Warriors' roster in 2011-12, his first in the NAHL. Ferris appeared in 59 regular-season games and scored 41 points (14 goals, 27 assists). He also had two points in four playoff games.

“My goal has always been to play college hockey and get an education, so I am thrilled to make this commitment to the University of Connecticut,” said Ferriss.

Ferriss started his NAHL career on a hot note, scoring five points in his first three games at the NAHL Showcase.

Ferriss said he learned a lot in his first year thanks in large part to Michigan head coach Moe Mantha.

“You definitely learn that you have to play at both ends of the ice and that you have to be responsible every second of every shift,” said Ferriss. “Moe also taught us that we have to make practices count and to take care of ourselves off the ice and do the little things to improve as a player and as a person.”

Ferriss was also selected to participate in the 2012 NAHL Top Prospects Tournament back in February in Troy as a part of the North Division team. He had a very successful event, scoring three points in three games and was also a +3.

 “Being invited to Top Prospects was huge for me personally,” said Ferriss. “It was a great experience from start to finish and was cool playing with guys that normally are your opponents. There was a lot of talent on display in front of a lot of scouts, so it made you want to really play well and not leave anything out there. I played well and I think that had something to do with the opportunity to play at the NCAA Division I level.”

“We at the Michigan Warriors are very excited and happy for Joe,” said Mantha. “He came in as a first-year player and really made an impact from the start of the season, showing he was ready to play at this level. As the season went along, he really improved his play without the puck, which ultimately was one of the reasons he is realizing his dream of playing college hockey.”

Photo/NAHL

Nedeljkovic, Corbin sign with Whalers

The Plymouth Whalers have announced the signing of two 16-year-old goaltenders.

The Whalers signed Alex Nedeljkovic, Plymouth’s selection in the sixth round (120th overall) of the 2012 Ontario Hockey League Priority Selection and Riley Corbin, who was acquired from the Sudbury Wolves in a trade earlier this month.

Both will be attending high school at the Plymouth-Canton Education Park in the fall.

“We think Nedeljkovic and Corbin have a chance to be a big part of our success,” said Plymouth assistant general manager Brian Sommariva. “We like Riley’s athleticism and Alex’s technical skill. We hope to help both young men take their careers to the next level.”

Nedeljkovic – from Parma, Ohio – played last season the for Belle Tire U-16s, where he recorded a 1.88 goals-against average, .903 save percentage, three shutouts and a 12-1-4-3 won-loss record. He is a student of the Bandits Goaltending School, which is run the Plymouth goaltending coach Stan Matwijiw.

Nedeljkovic attended the Whalers' rookie orientation in May and played well.

“It’s exciting to be drafted by the Plymouth Whalers,” Nadeljkovic said. “It looks like we’ll be a young team this year with a lot of skill. Stan really helped me last year with the way I approach the game, mentally – both in practice and in games. I can’t wait to get started.”

Originally selected by the Wolves in the fifth round (102nd overall) of the 2011 OHL Priority Selection, Corbin played for the Thunder Bay Kings midgets last season, where he posted a 1.72 goals-against average, .924 save percentage, three shutouts and an 8-3-2 won-loss record.

“I love the fact that Plymouth is an organization that has made the playoffs 21 straight years,” Corbin said. “The goalie coach (Matwijiw) has done a good job developing goaltenders. I’m not big or tall (5-feet-11, 170 pounds), so I have to make the most of my talent. I’m sure Stan will help me.”

Nedeljkovic and Corbin are expected to report to the Whalers training camp in late August.

Plymouth coach-GM Mike Vellucci with Nedeljkovic photo courtesy Plymouth Whalers

Muskegon main camp gets underway

After two days of invite camp action, Muskegon Lumberjacks main camp has begun at L.C. Walker Arena.

The Lumberjacks are headed into their third season in the Tier I United States Hockey League, the top American league for developing NCAA and NHL talent. The 2012-13 version of the club will be largely determined by what happens this week.

Several free agents have advanced from invite camp, which ended Tuesday night. They are now joined by nine returners from the 2011-12 Lumberjacks roster, plus five affiliate list players who saw action last year and one trade acquisition.

The Muskegon veterans in action this week are defensemen Carter Foguth, Zach Yoder and Florida Panthers draft pick Rasmus Bengtsson, forwards Joe Cox (Michigan State, pictured), Max Shuart (Michigan), Tyler Heinonen (Michigan Tech), Mike McNicholas (New Hampshire) and Mason Jobst, plus goaltender Hayden Stewart.

In addition, Battle Creek native Chad McDonald makes his Muskegon debut after arriving in a deal from Des Moines.

Seventeen selections from the twin USHL drafts conducted in May are also in town, led by first-round Entry Draft pick Adam Gilmour. The 6-foot-3 Boston College recruit went second overall to the Lumberjacks and is listed among the top 100 North American prospects for the upcoming NHL Draft, which is next weekend.

Camp activities will be mostly limited to controlled games, which are open to the public. Additional roster information can be found in the L.C. Walker Arena Beer Garden. Concession stands will be serving, Lumberjacks merchandise will be available and the arena box office will be open throughout the week.

The players will be divided into six teams until Thursday night, when the talent pool will be pared down to four squads. After Friday’s action, two teams will remain for a pair of “all-star games” Saturday at 10 a.m. and 7 p.m.

Following camp, the Lumberjacks must submit a 25-man roster to the USHL no later than July 1. That group of 25 players will return to Muskegon in late summer for training camp.

NA3HL announces 2012 draft results

The North American 3 Hockey League has announced the results of its 2012 Entry Draft, which was conducted online on Tuesday.

View the results of the draft here. A total of 205 players were selected.

With the first pick in the draft, the Breezy Point North Stars (one of two expansion teams in the 3HL for the 2012-13 season) selected goaltender Walker Enstad from the Cleveland Barons 18U team.

The other new team in the 3HL for the 2012-13 season, the Alexandria Blizzard, took forward Ian Ecklund from Proctor High School No. 2 overall.

The Battle Creek Jr. Revolution, who had the third overall draft pick, went to the North American Prospects Hockey League and forward Cam Miglia (pictured) from the Detroit Falcons 18U team.

A total of 30 PHL players were selected in the 3HL Entry Draft.

Players not drafted or tendered by 3HL teams are still able to participate in each team's respective open tryout camps. Click here for tryout information for all 17 3HL teams.

Click here for more information on the 3HL Entry Draft.

Photo/NAHL

Warriors acquire Dery from Corpus Christi

Michael Dery will continue his NAHL career next season in Michigan after being dealt to the Michigan Warriors in exchange for Mike Economos.

As a rookie forward last season with the Corpus Christi IceRays, Dery posted eight goals and 10 assists in 47 games. He will join a Warriors' squad that made the NAHL playoffs in the North Division, but lost to the Port Huron Fighting Falcons in four games in the divisional playoff round.

“We wish Mike the best of luck next season and appreciate all his hard work and dedication he brought to our team last season,” said IceRays' head coach Justin Quenneville. “He will now have an opportunity to play in his home state and for a great organization as well.”

Economos, also a forward, notched eight goals and assisted nine others in 51 games played while picking up 57 penalty minutes with the Warriors last season.

NA3HL Draft set for tomorrow

The 2012 North American 3 Hockey League (3HL) Entry Draft will be conducted online on Tuesday, June 5 at 6:00 p.m.

Draft results will be available by following @NA3HL on Twitter or at http://www.na3hldraft.com and the complete results by round/selection will be posted on http://www.na3hl.com at the conclusion of the draft.

There is no registration process to be eligible for the 3HL Entry Draft. Amateur players less than 21 years of age on December 31, 2012 who are not listed on an 3HL team roster or are listed on an 3HL team roster but played less than 10 3HL regular season and/or playoff games during the 2011-12 season and did not accept a tender from an 3HL team prior to the 2012 3HL Entry Draft are eligible for selection in the draft.

The 3HL Entry Draft shall consist of 12 rounds. Each eligible 3HL club shall be entitled to one selection per round unless it has acquired or lost selections due to approved trades with other 3HL clubs.

Eligible teams shall make selections in each round in reverse order of their finish in the 2011-12 3HL regular-season standings. New member clubs shall have their order of selection determined by lottery. If there is only one new member club, it shall have the first selection in each round.

2012 3HL Draft Order of Selection:
1. Breezy Point North Stars
2. Alexandria Blizzard

3. Battle Creek Jr. Revolution 

4. Michigan Mountain Cats 

5. Quad City Jr. Flames
6. Queen City Steam
7. Minnesota Flying Aces
8. Peoria Mustangs
9. Twin City Steel
10. Three Rivers Vengeance

11. Metro Jets 

12. North Iowa Bulls
13. Toledo Cherokee
14. St. Louis Jr. Blues
15. Cleveland Jr. Lumberjacks
16. Granite City Lumberjacks

17. Flint Jr. Generals 

For more information on the 3HL Entry Draft, visit http://www.na3hl.com/draft.

Whalers grab goalie Corbin from Sudbury

The Plymouth Whalers have announced the acquisition 16-year-old goaltender Riley Corbin from the Sudbury Wolves in exchange for two draft choices – the Whalers' fifth- and 11th-round choices in the 2013 Ontario Hockey League Priority Selection.

Originally selected by the Wolves in the fifth round (102nd overall) of the 2011 OHL Priority Selection, Corbin played for the Thunder Bay Kings midgets last season, where he posted a 1.72 goals-against average, a .924 save percentage, three shutouts and an 8-3-2 won-loss record.