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Press Release
The Nashville Predators have announced that they have signed Winterhawks forward Brendan Leipsic to a three-year entry level contract. Leipsic was drafted by the Predators in the third round, 89th overall, in the 2012 NHL Entry Draft.
Leipsic shared the league lead in scoring this season with linemate Nic Petan with 120 points each, as they won the Bob Clarke Trophy as the WHL’s leading scorers. Leipsic’s 49 goals also led the league, and he went on to add 24 points in 21 playoff games, helping lead the Winterhawks to the WHL Championship. He has one goal and one assist for two points through three games at the MasterCard Memorial Cup. Leipsic was also named to the WHL's Second All-Star Team.
In 201 regular season games over three seasons, Leipsic has career totals of 93 goals and 118 assists for 211 points.
“Brendan has steadily improved every season and become one of our cornerstone players,” said Winterhawks Acting Head Coach Travis Green. “Signing an entry level contract is a big first step towards a professional career, and we’re excited for Brendan and his family.”
(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)
Friday, May 24, 2013
The QMJHL congratulates Patrick Roy
Press Release
The Quebec Major Junior Hockey League congratulates Patrick Roy on his nomination as head-coach and Vice President of Hockey Operations of the Colorado Avalanche.
Roy spent the last eight seasons as head coach and general manager of the Quebec Remparts of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League. He guided the Remparts to a 348-196 record (.640) in 544 regular season games behind the bench, which included leading Quebec to the 2006 Memorial Cup title as the Canadian Hockey League champions.
"We are all very happy for Patrick Roy's nomination. He was and remains an exemplary ambassador of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League. The Avalanche has made an excellent choice and we wish him nothing but success."
Roy played three season (1982-83, 1983-84, 1984-85) in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League with the Granby Bisons (159 games in regular season) and entered the professional ranks with the Montreal Canadiens in 1985-86.
He had a dazzling beginning and impressed all with his spectacular saves especially during the playoffs. Roy won his first Stanley Cup in 1986.
He had an impressive and brilliant 18 season career in the National Hockey League and holds a significant number of regular season and playoff records.
Roy was inducted into the QMJHL Hall of Fame presented by RDS in 2004.
(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)
The Quebec Major Junior Hockey League congratulates Patrick Roy on his nomination as head-coach and Vice President of Hockey Operations of the Colorado Avalanche.
Roy spent the last eight seasons as head coach and general manager of the Quebec Remparts of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League. He guided the Remparts to a 348-196 record (.640) in 544 regular season games behind the bench, which included leading Quebec to the 2006 Memorial Cup title as the Canadian Hockey League champions.
"We are all very happy for Patrick Roy's nomination. He was and remains an exemplary ambassador of the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League. The Avalanche has made an excellent choice and we wish him nothing but success."
Roy played three season (1982-83, 1983-84, 1984-85) in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League with the Granby Bisons (159 games in regular season) and entered the professional ranks with the Montreal Canadiens in 1985-86.
He had a dazzling beginning and impressed all with his spectacular saves especially during the playoffs. Roy won his first Stanley Cup in 1986.
He had an impressive and brilliant 18 season career in the National Hockey League and holds a significant number of regular season and playoff records.
Roy was inducted into the QMJHL Hall of Fame presented by RDS in 2004.
(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)
Knights eliminate tournament hosts from contention
Press Release
The London Knights recorded six goals while limiting the Blades’ scoring chance to a minimum with some tight defensive play on their way to a 6-1 victory over the 2013 MasterCard Memorial Cup hosts.
The Knights got the game’s opening goal on a penalty shot at 3:24. Bo Horvat, who had previously been taken down on a breakaway attempt, slowly came down the middle and slid the puck between Andrey Makarov’s pads to put the Knights up 1-0.
Early in the second period, Paxton Leroux received a four-minute boarding penalty, giving the Blades a golden opportunity to tie up the score at one. Unfortunately, they were unable to generate any kind of quality scoring chance.
The Knights took a 2-0 lead on a fantastic individual effort from Seth Griffith. The Knights forward picked up the puck in the neutral zone, accelerated into the offensive zone before going through four Blades defenders and burying his third goal of the tournament.
Less than one minute later, London broke the host team’s backs as Chris Tierney, parked in the slot, one-timed a beautiful Max Domi pass into the net.
The Knights retreated to their dressing room with a three-goal lead after forty minutes of play.
The Blades found no solace in the third period with London registering three goals in the first four minutes of play courtesy of Ryan Rupert, Kyle Platzer and Nikita Zadorov.
Saskatoon did manage to break up the shutout thanks to a Nathan Burns goal at 11:40.
Jake Patterson made 32 saves in the victory. Bo Horvat was named the game’s first star.
The semi-final game of the 2013 MasterCard Memorial Cup will see the London Knights battle the Portland Winterhawks on Friday. The game can be seen live on Sportsnet and TVA Sports starting at 8 pm ET / 9 pm AT.
(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)
The London Knights recorded six goals while limiting the Blades’ scoring chance to a minimum with some tight defensive play on their way to a 6-1 victory over the 2013 MasterCard Memorial Cup hosts.
The Knights got the game’s opening goal on a penalty shot at 3:24. Bo Horvat, who had previously been taken down on a breakaway attempt, slowly came down the middle and slid the puck between Andrey Makarov’s pads to put the Knights up 1-0.
Early in the second period, Paxton Leroux received a four-minute boarding penalty, giving the Blades a golden opportunity to tie up the score at one. Unfortunately, they were unable to generate any kind of quality scoring chance.
The Knights took a 2-0 lead on a fantastic individual effort from Seth Griffith. The Knights forward picked up the puck in the neutral zone, accelerated into the offensive zone before going through four Blades defenders and burying his third goal of the tournament.
Less than one minute later, London broke the host team’s backs as Chris Tierney, parked in the slot, one-timed a beautiful Max Domi pass into the net.
The Knights retreated to their dressing room with a three-goal lead after forty minutes of play.
The Blades found no solace in the third period with London registering three goals in the first four minutes of play courtesy of Ryan Rupert, Kyle Platzer and Nikita Zadorov.
Saskatoon did manage to break up the shutout thanks to a Nathan Burns goal at 11:40.
Jake Patterson made 32 saves in the victory. Bo Horvat was named the game’s first star.
The semi-final game of the 2013 MasterCard Memorial Cup will see the London Knights battle the Portland Winterhawks on Friday. The game can be seen live on Sportsnet and TVA Sports starting at 8 pm ET / 9 pm AT.
(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)
Cary Eades Named USHL Coach of the Year
Press Release
The United States Hockey League today announced that Cary Eades of the Sioux Falls Stampede has been named the 2012-13 USHL Coach of the Year as determined by a vote of USHL coaches and general managers.
In just his first season behind the bench for the Stampede, Eades led the team to a 45-17-2 record and the top spot in the USHL Western Conference. The 45 wins tied for the most in the USHL (Dubuque Fighting Saints) and were the most in team history, surpassing the previous record of 43 during the 2005-06 season. Sioux Falls also recorded 24 victories on home ice to set a new team record, while their 21 victories on the road led the entire USHL.
The Stampede earned a team record 92 points in the standing under the direction of Eades this season, 51 more points than they accumulated last year. That increase represents the largest turnaround in USHL history from one season to the next, surpassing the 50-point improvement made by the Green Bay Gamblers in the 2008-09 season during the first year with Jon Cooper as head coach.
Sioux Falls hit new offensive highs with Eades at the helm as they scored 241 goals, the most for the team in the USHL Tier 1 era (2002-present). They were just one of three USHL teams that boasted six different players who scored 20 goals or more, and the team ranked third in the League averaging 3.77 goals per contest.
The Stampede were also one of the top teams defensively as they allowed the fourth fewest goals in the USHL (187), giving up 2.92 per game. Their penalty killing unit was among the best in the League also as they ranked third with an 84.8% success rate at stopping opponent power plays.
A number of players achieved individual success under the leadership of Coach Eades. Forward Dennis Kravchenko blossomed in his second USHL season (first with the Stampede) and was one of the League’s top scorers as he produced 63 points (21g, 42a) over 56 games to rank 12th overall in scoring. In his first season with the Stampede, forward C.J. Franklin ranked tied for sixth in the USHL with his team-leading 32 goals and tied for third with seven game-winners. Tony Calderone scored 29 goals while playing in all 64 regular season games and was named to the USHL All-Rookie Team. Charlie Lindgren recorded a League best 35 victories between the pipes to set a new Stampede record for victories in a season by a goaltender.
Overall, 17 players on the season-ending roster for the Stampede have earned opportunities at NCAA Division I hockey programs following their USHL careers.
"It didn't take long for Coach Eades to turn the Stampede from a team that didn't make the playoffs, into a contender for both the Anderson and the Clark Cup this past season," said USHL President and Commissioner Skip Prince, "but if you know Cary's record of achievement in hockey, that's not a surprise. His team was tough but disciplined on the ice, exciting to watch, and off the ice in Sioux Falls continued a tradition of being one of the League's best community citizens. Congratulations to one of the most innovative and successful coaches in the game – an accolade that comes not only from me, but from Cary's coaching brethren who voted him Coach of the Year."
This season marked a return to the USHL for Eades after nearly two decades coaching outside the League. He previously coached the Dubuque Fighting Saints for two seasons (1991-93) and led them to a 57-32-7 record. His 100th USHL coaching victory came this season during a 4-3 win over Dubuque on April 6th. It is just the second time a Sioux Falls Stampede head coach has been named the USHL Coach of the Year, following Kevin Hartzell who earned the honor during the 2005-06 season.
(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)
The United States Hockey League today announced that Cary Eades of the Sioux Falls Stampede has been named the 2012-13 USHL Coach of the Year as determined by a vote of USHL coaches and general managers.
In just his first season behind the bench for the Stampede, Eades led the team to a 45-17-2 record and the top spot in the USHL Western Conference. The 45 wins tied for the most in the USHL (Dubuque Fighting Saints) and were the most in team history, surpassing the previous record of 43 during the 2005-06 season. Sioux Falls also recorded 24 victories on home ice to set a new team record, while their 21 victories on the road led the entire USHL.
The Stampede earned a team record 92 points in the standing under the direction of Eades this season, 51 more points than they accumulated last year. That increase represents the largest turnaround in USHL history from one season to the next, surpassing the 50-point improvement made by the Green Bay Gamblers in the 2008-09 season during the first year with Jon Cooper as head coach.
Sioux Falls hit new offensive highs with Eades at the helm as they scored 241 goals, the most for the team in the USHL Tier 1 era (2002-present). They were just one of three USHL teams that boasted six different players who scored 20 goals or more, and the team ranked third in the League averaging 3.77 goals per contest.
The Stampede were also one of the top teams defensively as they allowed the fourth fewest goals in the USHL (187), giving up 2.92 per game. Their penalty killing unit was among the best in the League also as they ranked third with an 84.8% success rate at stopping opponent power plays.
A number of players achieved individual success under the leadership of Coach Eades. Forward Dennis Kravchenko blossomed in his second USHL season (first with the Stampede) and was one of the League’s top scorers as he produced 63 points (21g, 42a) over 56 games to rank 12th overall in scoring. In his first season with the Stampede, forward C.J. Franklin ranked tied for sixth in the USHL with his team-leading 32 goals and tied for third with seven game-winners. Tony Calderone scored 29 goals while playing in all 64 regular season games and was named to the USHL All-Rookie Team. Charlie Lindgren recorded a League best 35 victories between the pipes to set a new Stampede record for victories in a season by a goaltender.
Overall, 17 players on the season-ending roster for the Stampede have earned opportunities at NCAA Division I hockey programs following their USHL careers.
"It didn't take long for Coach Eades to turn the Stampede from a team that didn't make the playoffs, into a contender for both the Anderson and the Clark Cup this past season," said USHL President and Commissioner Skip Prince, "but if you know Cary's record of achievement in hockey, that's not a surprise. His team was tough but disciplined on the ice, exciting to watch, and off the ice in Sioux Falls continued a tradition of being one of the League's best community citizens. Congratulations to one of the most innovative and successful coaches in the game – an accolade that comes not only from me, but from Cary's coaching brethren who voted him Coach of the Year."
This season marked a return to the USHL for Eades after nearly two decades coaching outside the League. He previously coached the Dubuque Fighting Saints for two seasons (1991-93) and led them to a 57-32-7 record. His 100th USHL coaching victory came this season during a 4-3 win over Dubuque on April 6th. It is just the second time a Sioux Falls Stampede head coach has been named the USHL Coach of the Year, following Kevin Hartzell who earned the honor during the 2005-06 season.
(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)
Jim Montgomery Named USHL General Manager of the Year
Press Release
The United States Hockey League today announced that Jim Montgomery of the Dubuque Fighting Saints has been named the 2012-13 USHL General Manager of the Year as determined by a vote of USHL coaches and general managers.
Montgomery was the architect of the most successful season in the history of the Dubuque Fighting Saints. The team posted a 45-11-8 record and earned a League best 98 points in the standings to capture the USHL Anderson Cup. It brought the title back to Dubuque for the first time in 30 years. The Saints compiled a stellar 25-3-4 record at the Mystique Community Ice Center, the most home victories in team history and tying a USHL Tier 1 era (2002-present) mark for wins on home ice. They would also go on to win the Clark Cup in the postseason, the second time in three years under Montgomery that they have won the title.
After returning just four regular players from the 2011-12 season, Montgomery had the daunting task of replacing nine of the top ten scorers, including a pair of first-round picks in the 2012 NHL Draft – Zemgus Girgensons and Mike Matheson. The general manager did so by recruiting a trio of forwards that would light up the scoreboard and each tally 30 goals or more this season – Mike Szmatula (37), Peter Quenneville (33), and Frank DiChiara (30). It was just the second time in the Tier 1 era that a USHL team had three players each score 30 goals (Indiana Ice, 2010-11).
While replacing a large chunk of the roster from last year, the success this season came from a group that Montgomery kept mostly intact from the first day of training camp. He made very few roster moves throughout the season, but those he did make had significant impacts. He acquired goaltender Christian Frey who would post a 7-2-2 record over his 12 appearances, plus added affiliate player Karson Kuhlman and veteran forward Joseph Manno from the collegiate ranks, both of whom were key contributors over the second half of the season and in the playoffs.
The Saints received significant contributions from several youngsters this season, including a pair of players that Montgomery signed to tenders – Seamus Malone and Keegan Ford. Both played the season as 16-year-olds and were regulars in the lineup. Malone produced 27 points (6g, 21a) and a plus-12 rating in 50 games as a forward while defenseman Ford tallied 16 points (4g, 12a) and a plus-19 rating in 43 contests. Another 16-year-old, Dylan Gambrell, was selected by the team in the first round of the 2012 USHL Futures Draft and played a huge role for the Saints, scoring 27 points (9g, 18a) and posting a plus-14 rating.
While Montgomery’s team showed no shortage in offense, Dubuque was also the USHL’s top defensive team this season, giving up a League low 154 goals. The defense was backstopped by goaltender Arthur Brey who would post an impressive 24-6-4 record and lead the League with a 2.22 goals-against-average in just his first USHL season. Montgomery also brought in a pair of first-year defensemen to lead the defense. Niklas Nevalainen posted a plus-51 rating to lead the USHL while Jeff Taylor was third with a plus-41 mark.
"For the last three years, the Dubuque Fighting Saints have been a standard-bearer for the USHL, and a much of the credit for their success, both on and off the ice, goes to Coach Montgomery," said USHL President and Commissioner Skip Prince. "It all came together this past season, as Jim led the Saints to League trifecta – the Clark Cup, the Anderson Cup…and even the Cowbell Cup as the winner of the series with rivals Waterloo and Cedar Rapids. It's been a pleasure and a privilege to see him build a new tradition of excellence in Dubuque, and we congratulate him as he takes his skills to the University of Denver next year. Well done!"
Montgomery continued to develop NHL Draft prospects, including four players from this season’s team that were listed on the NHL Central Scouting final rankings in advance of the 2013 NHL Draft. Defenseman Michael Downing leads the group and is projected to be an early-round selection, while forwards Quenneville, DiChiara, and John Stevens have garnered attention from NHL scouts. Dubuque also had 18 players on the season-ending roster who have earned NCAA Division I hockey opportunities following their USHL careers.
Over three seasons in the USHL, Montgomery’s teams posted a 118-45-21 record, a .698 winning percentage. It is the second time he has been named USHL General Manager of the Year. He now moves on to college hockey as he recently accepted the position of head coach at the University of Denver.
(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)
The United States Hockey League today announced that Jim Montgomery of the Dubuque Fighting Saints has been named the 2012-13 USHL General Manager of the Year as determined by a vote of USHL coaches and general managers.
Montgomery was the architect of the most successful season in the history of the Dubuque Fighting Saints. The team posted a 45-11-8 record and earned a League best 98 points in the standings to capture the USHL Anderson Cup. It brought the title back to Dubuque for the first time in 30 years. The Saints compiled a stellar 25-3-4 record at the Mystique Community Ice Center, the most home victories in team history and tying a USHL Tier 1 era (2002-present) mark for wins on home ice. They would also go on to win the Clark Cup in the postseason, the second time in three years under Montgomery that they have won the title.
After returning just four regular players from the 2011-12 season, Montgomery had the daunting task of replacing nine of the top ten scorers, including a pair of first-round picks in the 2012 NHL Draft – Zemgus Girgensons and Mike Matheson. The general manager did so by recruiting a trio of forwards that would light up the scoreboard and each tally 30 goals or more this season – Mike Szmatula (37), Peter Quenneville (33), and Frank DiChiara (30). It was just the second time in the Tier 1 era that a USHL team had three players each score 30 goals (Indiana Ice, 2010-11).
While replacing a large chunk of the roster from last year, the success this season came from a group that Montgomery kept mostly intact from the first day of training camp. He made very few roster moves throughout the season, but those he did make had significant impacts. He acquired goaltender Christian Frey who would post a 7-2-2 record over his 12 appearances, plus added affiliate player Karson Kuhlman and veteran forward Joseph Manno from the collegiate ranks, both of whom were key contributors over the second half of the season and in the playoffs.
The Saints received significant contributions from several youngsters this season, including a pair of players that Montgomery signed to tenders – Seamus Malone and Keegan Ford. Both played the season as 16-year-olds and were regulars in the lineup. Malone produced 27 points (6g, 21a) and a plus-12 rating in 50 games as a forward while defenseman Ford tallied 16 points (4g, 12a) and a plus-19 rating in 43 contests. Another 16-year-old, Dylan Gambrell, was selected by the team in the first round of the 2012 USHL Futures Draft and played a huge role for the Saints, scoring 27 points (9g, 18a) and posting a plus-14 rating.
While Montgomery’s team showed no shortage in offense, Dubuque was also the USHL’s top defensive team this season, giving up a League low 154 goals. The defense was backstopped by goaltender Arthur Brey who would post an impressive 24-6-4 record and lead the League with a 2.22 goals-against-average in just his first USHL season. Montgomery also brought in a pair of first-year defensemen to lead the defense. Niklas Nevalainen posted a plus-51 rating to lead the USHL while Jeff Taylor was third with a plus-41 mark.
"For the last three years, the Dubuque Fighting Saints have been a standard-bearer for the USHL, and a much of the credit for their success, both on and off the ice, goes to Coach Montgomery," said USHL President and Commissioner Skip Prince. "It all came together this past season, as Jim led the Saints to League trifecta – the Clark Cup, the Anderson Cup…and even the Cowbell Cup as the winner of the series with rivals Waterloo and Cedar Rapids. It's been a pleasure and a privilege to see him build a new tradition of excellence in Dubuque, and we congratulate him as he takes his skills to the University of Denver next year. Well done!"
Montgomery continued to develop NHL Draft prospects, including four players from this season’s team that were listed on the NHL Central Scouting final rankings in advance of the 2013 NHL Draft. Defenseman Michael Downing leads the group and is projected to be an early-round selection, while forwards Quenneville, DiChiara, and John Stevens have garnered attention from NHL scouts. Dubuque also had 18 players on the season-ending roster who have earned NCAA Division I hockey opportunities following their USHL careers.
Over three seasons in the USHL, Montgomery’s teams posted a 118-45-21 record, a .698 winning percentage. It is the second time he has been named USHL General Manager of the Year. He now moves on to college hockey as he recently accepted the position of head coach at the University of Denver.
(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)
Wings Pre-Draft Camp Begins Friday!
Press Release
The Aberdeen Wings will be holding their Pre-Draft camp this Friday-Sunday at the Saint Thomas Ica Arena in Mendota Heights, MN. The Pre-Draft Camp is used to find prospects for the up coming NAHL Draft and also to invite players to our Main Camp held in July. We are estimating to have over 80 players in camp divided into 4 teams with each team playing 5 games over the course of the weekend.
“We are very excited for our upcoming Pre-Draft camp. Each year we have found players at this camp that have made big impacts on our team. It projects to be an exciting camp with a lot of good prospects.” – Coach Winter
Previous Wings players who have come through our Pre-Draft camp include Jake Horton, Tyler Cisar, Spencer Lawrence, Tanner Holmquist, Steven Johnson, Michael Prochno and former Wing and current University of Miami Defenseman Taylor Richart.
(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)
The Aberdeen Wings will be holding their Pre-Draft camp this Friday-Sunday at the Saint Thomas Ica Arena in Mendota Heights, MN. The Pre-Draft Camp is used to find prospects for the up coming NAHL Draft and also to invite players to our Main Camp held in July. We are estimating to have over 80 players in camp divided into 4 teams with each team playing 5 games over the course of the weekend.
“We are very excited for our upcoming Pre-Draft camp. Each year we have found players at this camp that have made big impacts on our team. It projects to be an exciting camp with a lot of good prospects.” – Coach Winter
Previous Wings players who have come through our Pre-Draft camp include Jake Horton, Tyler Cisar, Spencer Lawrence, Tanner Holmquist, Steven Johnson, Michael Prochno and former Wing and current University of Miami Defenseman Taylor Richart.
(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)
Thursday, May 23, 2013
MATT MCILVANE NAMED ASSISTANT COACH OF THE CHICAGO STEEL
Press Release
Orlando, FL - The Orlando Solar Bears announced today that former Solar Bears Assistant Coach Matt McIlvane has been named the Assistant Coach for the Chicago Steel of the United States Hockey League (USHL).
McIlvane played 100 professional hockey games from 2007-11 and was an eighth round pick (251st overall) of the Ottawa Senators in the 2004 NHL Entry Draft. His playing career includes stops in the ECHL, CHL, IHL, and the DEL in Germany. Prior to turning pro, McIlvane played three seasons in juniors, including one season with the Chicago Steel in 2003-04, and spent four years as a member of the Ohio State Buckeyes. Matt McIlvane
A native of Naperville, IL, McIlvane served as the Head Coach and General Manager of the Danville Dashers in the Federal Hockey League (FHL) during the 2011-12 season. He became an assistant coach with the Solar Bears in July of 2012.
"I'm very thankful for the opportunity that the Solar Bears ownership and Drake Berehowsky gave me to improve my coaching skills," said McIlvane. "That opportunity helped me grow as a young coach and it was an honor to be part of the inaugural season. The professionalism of the Orlando Solar Bears organization is second to none, and the passion of the fans helped make Orlando a great place to coach."
"We are very excited for Matt to get this opportunity," said Head Coach Drake Berehowsky. "He did an excellent job with the Solar Bears this season, and the job with the Steel will help him continue to gain valuable experience as a coach. I am thankful for his hard work with the Solar Bears and wish him the best in his future endeavors."
(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)
Orlando, FL - The Orlando Solar Bears announced today that former Solar Bears Assistant Coach Matt McIlvane has been named the Assistant Coach for the Chicago Steel of the United States Hockey League (USHL).
McIlvane played 100 professional hockey games from 2007-11 and was an eighth round pick (251st overall) of the Ottawa Senators in the 2004 NHL Entry Draft. His playing career includes stops in the ECHL, CHL, IHL, and the DEL in Germany. Prior to turning pro, McIlvane played three seasons in juniors, including one season with the Chicago Steel in 2003-04, and spent four years as a member of the Ohio State Buckeyes. Matt McIlvane
A native of Naperville, IL, McIlvane served as the Head Coach and General Manager of the Danville Dashers in the Federal Hockey League (FHL) during the 2011-12 season. He became an assistant coach with the Solar Bears in July of 2012.
"I'm very thankful for the opportunity that the Solar Bears ownership and Drake Berehowsky gave me to improve my coaching skills," said McIlvane. "That opportunity helped me grow as a young coach and it was an honor to be part of the inaugural season. The professionalism of the Orlando Solar Bears organization is second to none, and the passion of the fans helped make Orlando a great place to coach."
"We are very excited for Matt to get this opportunity," said Head Coach Drake Berehowsky. "He did an excellent job with the Solar Bears this season, and the job with the Steel will help him continue to gain valuable experience as a coach. I am thankful for his hard work with the Solar Bears and wish him the best in his future endeavors."
(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)
MASTERCARD MEMORIAL CUP DISCIPLINARY ACTION
Press Release
Saskatoon, SK – The Canadian Hockey League announced today that the National Hockey League Hockey Operations department has suspended Dalton Thrower of the Saskatoon Blades under supplemental discipline for the balance of the 2013 MasterCard Memorial Cup. The suspension was for a check to the head that occurred in the first period of Wednesday's game that injured opponent Taylor Leier of the Portland Winterhawks.
The 2013 MasterCard Memorial Cup is proudly supported by MasterCard, title sponsor of this event for 15 straight years. Associate sponsors include Bank of Montreal, Subway, Old Dutch, Post, and broadcast partners Sportsnet and TVA Sports.
For more information about the event please visit www.mastercardmemorialcup.ca.
(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)
Saskatoon, SK – The Canadian Hockey League announced today that the National Hockey League Hockey Operations department has suspended Dalton Thrower of the Saskatoon Blades under supplemental discipline for the balance of the 2013 MasterCard Memorial Cup. The suspension was for a check to the head that occurred in the first period of Wednesday's game that injured opponent Taylor Leier of the Portland Winterhawks.
The 2013 MasterCard Memorial Cup is proudly supported by MasterCard, title sponsor of this event for 15 straight years. Associate sponsors include Bank of Montreal, Subway, Old Dutch, Post, and broadcast partners Sportsnet and TVA Sports.
For more information about the event please visit www.mastercardmemorialcup.ca.
(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)
Rangers Sign Mense-Dietrich
Press Release
Kitchener Rangers Head Coach and General Manager Steve Spott announced today that the team has signed forward James Mense-Dietrich to an Ontario Hockey League contract. Mense-Dietrich was the Rangers’ seventh round pick in the 2013 OHL Priority Selection
Described by Rangers’ scouts as a smart player with natural goal scoring ability, Mense-Dietrich recorded 26 goals and 21 assists in 28 regular season games with the Stayner Siskins of the Georgian Mid Ontario Junior C Hockey League (GMOHL) last season.
(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)
Kitchener Rangers Head Coach and General Manager Steve Spott announced today that the team has signed forward James Mense-Dietrich to an Ontario Hockey League contract. Mense-Dietrich was the Rangers’ seventh round pick in the 2013 OHL Priority Selection
Described by Rangers’ scouts as a smart player with natural goal scoring ability, Mense-Dietrich recorded 26 goals and 21 assists in 28 regular season games with the Stayner Siskins of the Georgian Mid Ontario Junior C Hockey League (GMOHL) last season.
(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)
McCool Commits to IceDogs
Press Release
Niagara IceDogs head coach and general manager Marty Williamson announced today that the IceDogs have signed 2013 OHL Priority Selection Hayden McCool.
McCool was selected by the IceDogs in the first round, sixth overall, from the Whitby Wildcats back on April 6th.
The Whitby native is a 6'2", 183 lbs. centre who put up 21 goals and 13 assists for 34 points in 33 games this past season. He is described a player who "has all the potential to be a dominant player in our league. He has size, skill and skates well...Hayden is a huge centre that gets up and down the ice very well and has the ability and quickness to beat defenders off the rush."
Williamson is thrilled to have McCool signed.
"I couldn't be happier to have Hayden signed" said Williamson. "We were excited to have the opportunity to take him back on draft day and now having him signed is the next step in the process. He is a big part of our future and we look forward to seeing him in an IceDogs uniform for years to come."
As excited as Williamson is about the signing, McCool seems even happier.
"It’s great. It's a dream come true." said McCool. "Everything sinks in and becomes a little more realistic each day. I can’t believe it’s happened. I was ecstatic to be drafted by the IceDogs on draft day and now to sign is equally exciting. It’s a great organization and not too far from home so I just can’t wait to get started."
McCool will now join all the other draft picks for a rookie orientation day on June 8th where the players will come to St. Catharines for a tour of some key IceDogs facilities and a BBQ. McCool then plans to have a summer of workouts where he will prepare to finally hit the ice for the IceDogs in training camp come late August.
The entire IceDogs organization would like to congratulate Hayden on his signing and welcome him to the team.
(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)
Niagara IceDogs head coach and general manager Marty Williamson announced today that the IceDogs have signed 2013 OHL Priority Selection Hayden McCool.
McCool was selected by the IceDogs in the first round, sixth overall, from the Whitby Wildcats back on April 6th.
The Whitby native is a 6'2", 183 lbs. centre who put up 21 goals and 13 assists for 34 points in 33 games this past season. He is described a player who "has all the potential to be a dominant player in our league. He has size, skill and skates well...Hayden is a huge centre that gets up and down the ice very well and has the ability and quickness to beat defenders off the rush."
Williamson is thrilled to have McCool signed.
"I couldn't be happier to have Hayden signed" said Williamson. "We were excited to have the opportunity to take him back on draft day and now having him signed is the next step in the process. He is a big part of our future and we look forward to seeing him in an IceDogs uniform for years to come."
As excited as Williamson is about the signing, McCool seems even happier.
"It’s great. It's a dream come true." said McCool. "Everything sinks in and becomes a little more realistic each day. I can’t believe it’s happened. I was ecstatic to be drafted by the IceDogs on draft day and now to sign is equally exciting. It’s a great organization and not too far from home so I just can’t wait to get started."
McCool will now join all the other draft picks for a rookie orientation day on June 8th where the players will come to St. Catharines for a tour of some key IceDogs facilities and a BBQ. McCool then plans to have a summer of workouts where he will prepare to finally hit the ice for the IceDogs in training camp come late August.
The entire IceDogs organization would like to congratulate Hayden on his signing and welcome him to the team.
(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)
Steelheads sign forward Everett Clark
Press Release
Mississauga, ON – The Mississauga Steelheads are proud to announce the signing of forward Everett Clark to a standard OHL player contract. Clark was selected by Mississauga in the 5th round (90th overall) at the 2012 OHL Priority Selection. The 5’10, 185lbs forward was a member of the 2012-13 OMHA Midget ETA “AAA” championship winning Whitby Wildcats.
Clark, a native of Whitby, Ontario appeared in 20 games for the Whitby Wildcats Midget AAA team this season, posting 23 points (9 goals, 14 assists) and adding 54 penalty minutes. Clark’s skating ability will be a welcome addition to the Mississauga lineup as he looks to join former teammate and current Steelheads forward Bobby MacIntyre next season. "Everett is a playmaking forward who was an important member of a successful Whitby Wildcats AAA Midget club. We are excited about incorporating Everett's skill and competitiveness into our line-up" said Steelheads Head Coach and GM James Boyd.
(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)
Mississauga, ON – The Mississauga Steelheads are proud to announce the signing of forward Everett Clark to a standard OHL player contract. Clark was selected by Mississauga in the 5th round (90th overall) at the 2012 OHL Priority Selection. The 5’10, 185lbs forward was a member of the 2012-13 OMHA Midget ETA “AAA” championship winning Whitby Wildcats.
Clark, a native of Whitby, Ontario appeared in 20 games for the Whitby Wildcats Midget AAA team this season, posting 23 points (9 goals, 14 assists) and adding 54 penalty minutes. Clark’s skating ability will be a welcome addition to the Mississauga lineup as he looks to join former teammate and current Steelheads forward Bobby MacIntyre next season. "Everett is a playmaking forward who was an important member of a successful Whitby Wildcats AAA Midget club. We are excited about incorporating Everett's skill and competitiveness into our line-up" said Steelheads Head Coach and GM James Boyd.
(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)
Jr. Ducks 16U captain Nyhus signs NAHL tender
Press Release
The Anaheim Jr. Ducks of the North American Prospects Hockey League have announced that 16U defenseman Evan Nyhus has signed an NAHL tender with the Kenai River Brown Bears. Nyhus was the captain of the 16U Ducks team this past season.
Nyhus, 17, is a solid, good-sized defenseman at 5’11/175 and led the Ducks 16U team in scoring for all defenseman this past season. The native of Dove Canyon, California, recorded 14 points (2 goals, 12 assists) in 22 NAPHL regular season games. Those numbers ranked him 6th in scoring on the team. The Ducks finished with the second best record in the NAPHL 16U Division with a mark of 19-2-1 and 39 points.
“Evan is a smooth skating defenseman, with good poise and sense. We are excited that he chose to compete for a spot with us,” said Brown Bears head coach Oliver David. “He played a ton on minutes last year, in all situations for his team. He was also the captain of his team. We like that here in Bear Country. Evan has had great coaching being around the Burcar brothers, and others in the Ducks Organization. The recent success of the Jr. Ducks Club throughout all levels has been a testament to that.”
Last season, Nyhus played for the LA Kings 16U team where he recorded six points in 31 games played.
Hyhus is the fourth member of this past year’s Ducks 16U team to sign an NAHL tender joining Shane McMahan (Fairbanks), Elijah Barriga (Amarillo) and Riley Hummitsch (Coulee Region).
(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)
The Anaheim Jr. Ducks of the North American Prospects Hockey League have announced that 16U defenseman Evan Nyhus has signed an NAHL tender with the Kenai River Brown Bears. Nyhus was the captain of the 16U Ducks team this past season.
Nyhus, 17, is a solid, good-sized defenseman at 5’11/175 and led the Ducks 16U team in scoring for all defenseman this past season. The native of Dove Canyon, California, recorded 14 points (2 goals, 12 assists) in 22 NAPHL regular season games. Those numbers ranked him 6th in scoring on the team. The Ducks finished with the second best record in the NAPHL 16U Division with a mark of 19-2-1 and 39 points.
“Evan is a smooth skating defenseman, with good poise and sense. We are excited that he chose to compete for a spot with us,” said Brown Bears head coach Oliver David. “He played a ton on minutes last year, in all situations for his team. He was also the captain of his team. We like that here in Bear Country. Evan has had great coaching being around the Burcar brothers, and others in the Ducks Organization. The recent success of the Jr. Ducks Club throughout all levels has been a testament to that.”
Last season, Nyhus played for the LA Kings 16U team where he recorded six points in 31 games played.
Hyhus is the fourth member of this past year’s Ducks 16U team to sign an NAHL tender joining Shane McMahan (Fairbanks), Elijah Barriga (Amarillo) and Riley Hummitsch (Coulee Region).
(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)
Clippers Add Dman
Press Release
The Nanaimo Clippers are pleased to announce that 17 year old defenceman Edwin Hookenson has committed to play for the team this upcoming season. Hookenson joins the Clippers after playing last season for the Swift Current Legionnaires of the Saskatchewan Midget AAA Hockey League. The 6’0” 180lb defenceman calls Lampman, Saskatchewan home. He was the captain of the Legionnaires where he played 44 games and had 7 goals, 23 assists, for 30 points.
Coach Vandekamp: “We are very excited to add Edwin to our roster for next season. He is an exciting prospect for us in many ways. On the ice he has good size, good skating ability, competitiveness, and skill. He is a very good defensive player and he has a tremendous amount of offensive upside as well. As the captain of his team he has learned to become a leader both on and off the ice. He is a dedicated student who wants to advance to the NCAA after playing in the BCHL. We are looking forward to helping Edwin reach those goals and would like to welcome him and his Family to the Clippers Family.”
(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)
The Nanaimo Clippers are pleased to announce that 17 year old defenceman Edwin Hookenson has committed to play for the team this upcoming season. Hookenson joins the Clippers after playing last season for the Swift Current Legionnaires of the Saskatchewan Midget AAA Hockey League. The 6’0” 180lb defenceman calls Lampman, Saskatchewan home. He was the captain of the Legionnaires where he played 44 games and had 7 goals, 23 assists, for 30 points.
Coach Vandekamp: “We are very excited to add Edwin to our roster for next season. He is an exciting prospect for us in many ways. On the ice he has good size, good skating ability, competitiveness, and skill. He is a very good defensive player and he has a tremendous amount of offensive upside as well. As the captain of his team he has learned to become a leader both on and off the ice. He is a dedicated student who wants to advance to the NCAA after playing in the BCHL. We are looking forward to helping Edwin reach those goals and would like to welcome him and his Family to the Clippers Family.”
(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)
Brendon Kearney Joins Rivermen
Press Release
The Langley Rivermen Junior “A” Hockey club is pleased to announce the commitment of forward Brendon Kearney (1995 born) for the 2013-2014 season. Kearney hails from Northville, Michigan and was the captain for Detroit Honeybaked and put up 24 goals and 49 assists in 62 games.
“I am beyond excited to come to Langley next year. I have heard nothing but good things from top to bottom about the organization and in meeting Mr. Henderson, I really liked what he had to say and feel the Rivermen will be a good fit for me come next season,” said Kearney.
Kearney is a left winger that stands at 6 feet, 185 pounds and describes himself as a playmaking two-way player,
“I feel I can really make plays in the offensive zone and score when needed, but at the same time it does not take away from my defensive game. I really enjoy playing in all situations and I hope I can come in and gain the coaching staff’s trust right away.”
Rivermen Head Coach and General Manager Bobby Henderson has had his eye on Kearney for a while now and was thrilled to land him,
“Brendon is a very solid all-around player that brings an outstanding compete level. He has a nice skill set and a good mind for the game and has shown he can put up good numbers. We know we are getting a leader and a dependable player and we see him helping our team in every aspect,” Henderson said.
Kearney had a whirlwind season as he took his team all the way to the national championship game, but unfortunately fell short in the end. He also had a taste of Junior “A” hockey in the USHL as he suited up in six games for the USNTDP Juniors.
“Last year was a great experience for me and I think I have really grown as a player. It was tough to lose in the national title game, but I am very proud of our team as not many people expected us to be there. As for my experience in the USHL, it was great. Just being able to be around the top players in my age group and see the work they put in on a daily basis really put things into perspective for me. Now I know how hard I need to work to achieve my goals,” Kearney explained.
As for expectations in his first season in the BCHL, Kearney made it pretty clear cut what he hopes to accomplish,
“I just want a strong overall first year. Personally I want to come in and contribute anyway I can and hopefully gain some interest from division one schools. On a team level I want to bring the Fred Page Cup to Langley and win the RBC Cup, it’s as simple as that,” Kearney finished.
(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)
The Langley Rivermen Junior “A” Hockey club is pleased to announce the commitment of forward Brendon Kearney (1995 born) for the 2013-2014 season. Kearney hails from Northville, Michigan and was the captain for Detroit Honeybaked and put up 24 goals and 49 assists in 62 games.
“I am beyond excited to come to Langley next year. I have heard nothing but good things from top to bottom about the organization and in meeting Mr. Henderson, I really liked what he had to say and feel the Rivermen will be a good fit for me come next season,” said Kearney.
Kearney is a left winger that stands at 6 feet, 185 pounds and describes himself as a playmaking two-way player,
“I feel I can really make plays in the offensive zone and score when needed, but at the same time it does not take away from my defensive game. I really enjoy playing in all situations and I hope I can come in and gain the coaching staff’s trust right away.”
Rivermen Head Coach and General Manager Bobby Henderson has had his eye on Kearney for a while now and was thrilled to land him,
“Brendon is a very solid all-around player that brings an outstanding compete level. He has a nice skill set and a good mind for the game and has shown he can put up good numbers. We know we are getting a leader and a dependable player and we see him helping our team in every aspect,” Henderson said.
Kearney had a whirlwind season as he took his team all the way to the national championship game, but unfortunately fell short in the end. He also had a taste of Junior “A” hockey in the USHL as he suited up in six games for the USNTDP Juniors.
“Last year was a great experience for me and I think I have really grown as a player. It was tough to lose in the national title game, but I am very proud of our team as not many people expected us to be there. As for my experience in the USHL, it was great. Just being able to be around the top players in my age group and see the work they put in on a daily basis really put things into perspective for me. Now I know how hard I need to work to achieve my goals,” Kearney explained.
As for expectations in his first season in the BCHL, Kearney made it pretty clear cut what he hopes to accomplish,
“I just want a strong overall first year. Personally I want to come in and contribute anyway I can and hopefully gain some interest from division one schools. On a team level I want to bring the Fred Page Cup to Langley and win the RBC Cup, it’s as simple as that,” Kearney finished.
(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)
New Jersey 18U defenseman Burr signs NAHL tender
Press Release
The New Jersey Jr. Titans, proud members of the North American Prospects Hockey League (NAPHL), are pleased to announce that 18U defenseman Ryan Burr has signed an NAHL tender with the Corpus Christi IceRays. The IceRays compete in the South Division of the NAHL.
Burr, 17, just completed his first season with the Jr. Titans 18U team, where he ranked 2nd in team scoring with 11 points (6 goals, 5 assists) in 22 games played. The Toms River, New Jersey native also had three points in four NAPHL Championship Series games.
Burr (5’10/180) also recently competed in the 2013 NAPHL Top Prospects Tournament held a few weeks ago in Frisco, Texas, where he helped Team East to the Top Prospects Championship. He was one of seven New Jersey players who participated in the Top Prospects event joining Nikita Samoylov, Ryan Price, Chris Wuestneck, Tim Gelatt, Dominic de la Guardia, and Joe Licata.
Following the event, he signed his tender with Corpus Christi.
Burr also played for the Toms River North high school hockey team. He is the first player from the Jr. Titans 18U team to sign an NAHL tender this season.
(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)
The New Jersey Jr. Titans, proud members of the North American Prospects Hockey League (NAPHL), are pleased to announce that 18U defenseman Ryan Burr has signed an NAHL tender with the Corpus Christi IceRays. The IceRays compete in the South Division of the NAHL.
Burr, 17, just completed his first season with the Jr. Titans 18U team, where he ranked 2nd in team scoring with 11 points (6 goals, 5 assists) in 22 games played. The Toms River, New Jersey native also had three points in four NAPHL Championship Series games.
Burr (5’10/180) also recently competed in the 2013 NAPHL Top Prospects Tournament held a few weeks ago in Frisco, Texas, where he helped Team East to the Top Prospects Championship. He was one of seven New Jersey players who participated in the Top Prospects event joining Nikita Samoylov, Ryan Price, Chris Wuestneck, Tim Gelatt, Dominic de la Guardia, and Joe Licata.
Following the event, he signed his tender with Corpus Christi.
Burr also played for the Toms River North high school hockey team. He is the first player from the Jr. Titans 18U team to sign an NAHL tender this season.
(Nathan can be reached at nathanfournier@mainehockeyjournal.com)
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