Goon’s Ramblings 8-02-2006

Another Big Loss for the Fighting Sioux Hockey Team.
Fighting Sioux assistant Coach Berry make the jump to the American Hockey League. This past week Fighting Sioux fans were greeted with more bad news (good for the coach and bad for the Sioux) Assistant Coach Brad Berry accepted a job with the Manitoba Moose of the American Hockey League.

Goon’s World is saddened by the loss of a good coach because he was a great mentor of young defensemen, and his work was evident by the play of our blue liners. Coach Brad Berry was instrumental in the development of former Fighting Sioux players Matt Greene, Matt Smaby and last seasons freshman defensemen. This is a major blow to UND because his services will be sorely missed. I would like to take this time to thank Coach Berry for his service to UND and wish him the best of luck in coaching in the pros. As clichés go one team’s lose is another’s gain.

Toews Staying Put at UND.
This past week Fighting Sioux forward Jonathon Toews announced that he was staying put and returning to the Fighting Sioux for another season. It would be an understatement if I said a lot of us are relieved as the latest good news (finally something positive after a summer of disappointments) that the Fighting Sioux will have the services of the highly skilled Toews for at least one more season, I wonder if we can talk him into staying one more season after that? If Toews had signed a professional contract with the Chicago Black Hawks it would have been a serious blow to UND chances this up coming season. Let it be known that Toews is a man of poise, It would have been hard for me to turn down the rookie max 850,000.00 and a 85,000 signing bonus.

I believe with Toews the Sioux will still have a dynamic group of skilled players coming back for the next season. Although UND will not score goals in bunches as they did last season Toews and Oshie will still put the fear in the opposition.
Jack Skille Staying Put in Madison
The Wisconsin Badgers also received some good news in July also. Up and coming super star freshman forward Jack Skille announced that he will in fact be returning for another season with the defending National Champions Wisconsin Badgers. It had been rumored that Chicago was interested in signing Skille along with Fighting Sioux forward Jonathon Toews.

Wisconsin like the other great teams in the WCHA did not go unscathed during the off season as the Badgers suffered some big time losses as well, leading scorer Sophomore Joe Pavelski (56 points) signed with the San Jose Sharks of the NHL and second leading scorer Junior Robbie Earl (50 points) signed with the Toronto Maple Leafs of the NHL. Both players were highly touted marquee players and their loss to their team is huge. Of course the Badgers are still loaded and sport one of colleges best goaltenders in Brian Elliot. The Badgers are still going to be the team to beat as teams are going to have to break through their defense to score. Elliot game teams fits last season.

The Attrition must stop.

Players Leaving Early for the Pros:
The list of players bolting for the pros keeps growing by the day. Its getting to be sckening. Again Goon's world doesn't fault these kids for taking the money but I blame the hockey clubs plucking these kids out of school early. I predict there are going to be more.

Last week, Denver lost a top player in Paul Stastny, one of the bigger loses of the off season (by talent but not pur numbers). Paul Stastny was an explosive player that could light up the lamp. It will be interesting to see if Stastny makes the big club in Colorado. The Badgers suffered another huge lose when Joel Paveliski signed a professional contract with San Jose.

Complete list of underclassmen signings in the WCHA:
Break Down of the List Per Sioux Extra

UND (5)
Travis Zajac, sophomore
Matt Smaby, junior
Drew Stafford, junior
Rastislav Spirko, sophomore
Jordan Parise, junior

Minnesota (3)
Kris Chucko, sophomore
Danny Irmen, junior
Ryan Potulny, junior

Mankato (3)
David Backes, junior
Kyle Peto, junior
Ryan Carter, sophomore

Wisconsin (2)
Robbie Earl, junior
Joe Pavelski, sophomore

Denver (2)
Matt Carle, junior
Paul Stastny, sophomore

Players that could leave.

Phil Kessel (goofers)
Jack Skille (BADgers)
Jonathon Toews (Figthing Sioux)

Best Kept Golf Secret in North Dakota.

Dakota Winds Golf Course
Check out this Golf Course
This past weekend I had the pleasure to golfing the Dakota Winds golf course in Hankinson, ND. This event has become a yearly thing, every summer during the third weekend of July I go golfing group of guys that I know, this years group numbered 20. This year the guy that sets up this weekend worked out a deal for us to play at the Dakota Winds golf course. The price tag for this golf weekend: three nights and five rounds of golf grand total $255.00.

The Course
If a person were to use one word to describe this golf course it would be unbelievable. Every hole is unique and has a different challenge facing you, there are huge deep bunkers lining each fairway and green. The Dakota Winds Sisseston golf course from the tips is a whooping 7000 yards long, but that doesn't end there. For the golfers that are less skilled like myself (I am a 17 USGA handicap) your challenge from the White tees is still a modest 6500 yards long. Basically this golf course is not a short course by anyone standards, some of the courses that I have golfed over the years are 6500 yards from the tips. The fairways on most holes are wide but a way ward shot will punish you and you are almost certain to card a double or triple bogey for misfired shots. You have to think your way around the golf course, and I advise playing the smart shot or your score will balloon quickly. Duff a shot and you will be hitting a long iron or a wood into the small greens that course has. Hitting long irons or woods to the greens only spells more trouble if you have the propensity push or pull your golf shots. I have been known to hit a gradual fade.

There is a lot of long fescue and there are many pot ponds posted all over the course, all of which seem to be where a bogey golfer hit their shots. Over the course of the weekend I lost at least a dozen golf balls, most of which were nice balls straight out my bag that had never been hit. I am sure they will end up in the recycled ball jar at the golf course later this season. The sand traps were just like I like them hard but if you hit your shot thin you might hit the lip of the bunker your trying to get out of. Here are a few of the holes that really caught my eye.

The Hole of the Course
Hole 2
The second hole is a 462 yard par four that has a invisible pond guarding the fairway. This is by far the longest par 4 that I have ever played. The first time I played this hole I launched a drive down the left side only to discover that I had the deposited my new ball into the pond. Now on your second shot if you are able to hit your approach shot to the green there is a bunker guarding the green on the left and another pond guarding the green on the left. Once you get to the green, that in its self is another challenge, the green is severely slopped green that can add more challenge if you go bombing past the hole. I was able to make a couple of bogies on this hole and one time ended up carding a tripple bogey seven after attempting a putt for par.

One Tough Par Three
Hole 6
This hole was a monster, and bogey is a good score. The hole is 137 yards long from the whites and if the wind is blowing it plays longer and harder. I hit an 8 iron to this green all 5 times that I played this hole and ended up with a different result each time. You either hit the green or end up in the water or if your lucky enough to miss the water you might end up in a very deep bunker on the left side of the green. Miss the green or the bunker and your dropping your ball, because there is no room for error. I lost a few balls on this hole. The green itself is another story and it slopes and funnels to the rear. I literally say one of my playing partners sink about a 45 foot par putt.

Monster Par Five
Hole 16
Hole number 16 is one of the hardest holes that I have ever played as far as par fives go. Its 548 yards long and seems longer, you literally could go driver three wood four iron into the green if the wind is blowing from the west. There is water on both sides of the fairway and the green is very small guarded by two bunkers. I did manage to birdie this hole the only one that I made all weekend. That time down the fairway I smashed my drive about 280, on my second shot hit a low screaming three wood and then hit a 8 iron to 2 feet on the approach. Yep I did have to putt this one.

Affordable Golf
The golf course is affordable the price is around $45.00 with a cart I do believe that there is a twilight rate and you can walk the course for $35.00. If you’re a person that likes to tip back a few while you golf the price of drinks is unbelievable. Mixed drinks were around 3 dollars and a six pack of beer was $15.00 a steal if you are used to golfing in the Red River Valley. The PGA Professional Nick Wimer is a class act and very easy to work with I recommend giving him a call. Call 1-800-325-6825, ext. 546 for all the Stay & Play Packages.

A picture can paint a 1000 words.

4-3
Even after 3 months the smile can not be removed from my face, the score board says it all. Actually, I may have to go to the Dr and have it surgically removed. Nah, I think I will leave it there for now. I will use it for motivation. Maybe when ever my golf game is in the crapper I will just pull out this picture from my golf bag. I mean really I have $1500.00 in golf club and I can't put together consecutive good golf shots back to back for 18 holes, make that 9 holes.

The memories of this day was like Christmas coming early. The Shock and pandamonia of 5,000 cocky Gopher fans being deflated all at once. Then a large cheer for Holy Cross. An opportunity lost. I would classify it as the loss of the century. The biggest thing to happen for Holy Cross in their short division one history.
Sieve, Sieve, Sieve

Goon's Ramblings 7-18-2006

The Goon Golfs in the 9th Annual Galen Nagle Memorial Golf Tournament

I had the opportunity to play in the 9th annual Galen Nagle Memorial Golf Tournament that was held at the beautiful Bemidji Town and Country. The golf tournament was a fundraiser for BSU hockey in honor of the late Former BSU Goalie Galen Nagle. The tournament was held at Castle Highlands in Turtle River until moving to the Bemidji Town and Country Club. I think this is a fabulous idea because there is no comparison between the two courses. BTCC is hands down a better course.

I had the honor of meeting this fine gentleman back in the early 1990's when I worked at Castle Highlands golf course during my college days. Galen was truly a great person.

I played with the Galen Nagle Memorial Golf Tournament with Scott “the Commish” Williams the television voice of the Beaver Hockey team, his brother-in-law Cole Jacobson, Eric Gilbertson and Scott Robbins. Even with me on the team; our team still finished in 5th place out of 39 teams. Two of our teammates Robbins and Gilbertson were great golfers and could flat out play, and were members at BTCC. The rest of us made some great shots and putts at key times.

History of the Galen Nagle Memorial Golf Tournament

The Galen Nagle Memorial Golf Tournament began in 1997 in an effort to build the Galen Nagle Endowment Fund.

Nagle, who was a goaltender for the Beavers from 1980-84, went on to serve as a coach and teacher in Minnesota for several years before losing his life to cancer Oct. 18, 1994 at the age of 34.

Nagle was a member of the historical 1984 national championship team at BSU. He earned an 8-1 victory between the pipes to cap off the perfect 31-0 season.

Galen exemplified Beaver hockey, said former BSU men’s hockey coach and athletic director R.H. Bob Peters. “Hard work, dedication and loyalty were inherent to his character, and through his efforts, he became a vital part of our team.

Nagle, a native of Baudette, Minn., graduated from BSU in 1984 and was a 1980 graduate of Bemidji High School.

Golf the Bemidji Town and Country Club
BTCC
I strongly advise anybody visiting the Bemidji to consider playing the Bemidji Town and Country Club, if you can afford dropping $50.00 bucks on a round of golf to go ahead and play this course, you will not be disappointed. Words just can't explain this course, and my description of this course will do it not justice, seriously this course is unbelievable and in awesome shape, in my opinion nothing in Grand Forks even comes close to this course and I play on Kings Walk (no Offense to Kings Walk). I am not kidding. The fairways at BTCC are like walking on carpet in a mansion. There isn't more than two greens that are flat on this course, the person that designed this course was an absolute genius. I know Joel Goldstrand made some improvements on it during the 1990’s but I am not sure if Goldstand is the one who should get the credit for the greens design. My only complaint on the whole course is that the greens are just a little slow after playing out at Kings Walk its hard to judge the speeds. I suppose with the hot weather the greens superintendent doesn't want to burn up his beautiful greens by cutting them any lower or with all the different slopes on the greens making them faster might make the course too hard to play for higher handicap players. Either way I can't fault them for that.

Toews to return to UND?

Toews

Long Off Season

I have to admit that I really hate the offseason, that voidd where there is no hockey for like another 3 months. The offseason that the various message boards turn into a giant moronathon. A classic example of what I am talking aboutThis offseason is especially tough causing me much angst and causing me to be on the cusp of a nervous wreck. This tough offseason started almost at the beginning of the last horn of UND's Frozen Four appearance. Since that horn the Fighting Sioux hockey team has looked more like a sinking ship with many players making the jump to the next level.

It seems like every available draft choice is heading for the exits with big money waiting in the wings. Now again I don't fault these kids for taking the money, I would do the same thing in a heart bea, but it really has been a tough offseason to take, its worse than the offseason when we lost Zach. Hockey Futures Article However, cross your fingers there may actually be some good news.

The Hawks have one of the top rated groups of future talent (ranked 4th by Hockey’s Future) and this class should help build on an already talented core.

Jonathan Toews, C/W – Univ of North Dakota (NCAA)
3rd overall, 6’1 195

In picking Jonathan Toews, the Hawks made a ‘safe’ pick of a player who was the most complete forward in the draft, eschewing the flashier Phil Kessel and Niklas Backstrom. The youngest player in college hockey (born April 29, 1988), the 6’1, 195 lb center was second among all college freshmen in scoring with 22 goals, including nine goals on the power play. He also finished third on the team with a plus/minus of +20. Before North Dakota, he played with the highly-regarded Shattuck-St. Mary’s program.

Toews’ stock skyrocketed in the second half of the season as he helped the Fighting Sioux capture the Broadmoor Cup (WCHA Playoff Championship) as well as earn a berth in the NCAA Tournament. He scored 27 points (15 goals, 12 assists) in his final 24 games of the season. Toews’ memorable performance in the NCAA Tournament West Regional earned MVP honors, as his two goals and three assists helped lead North Dakota to their second consecutive Frozen Four appearance.

In 2005, he captained Canada’s Team Western to a gold medal at the World U-17 Tournament in Lethbridge, AB as well as earned tournament’s MVP honor. In 2003, Toews was the top selection in the WHL Bantam Draft, taken by the Tri-City Americans. But he opted to go the NCAA route rather than the major junior route.

Toews will continue with North Dakota in 2006-07.

Local Driver Comes Close in NST Finale

NST Night Two
Local Driver Comes Close in NST Finale
Local Driver Mark Dobmeier was going into the weekend trying to make a strong impression on the National Sprint Tour and probably walked away successfully doing that. Mark ran strong all weekend finishing 8th on Friday night and 4th on Saturday night. Mark was the local highest finisher all weekend.

Mark improved on Friday nights strong finish and again he trilled the hometown crowd by making multiple attempts at taking the lead from NST Veteran Danny Lasoski before giving way to 11K Driver Tim Kaeding and R-19 driver Jason Solwold. Dobmeier finished the feature in fourth place.

The rest of Mark Dobmeier's night was just as successful as Mark finished first in his heat race and second in the dash. Mark Dobmeier brought the River Cities crowd to their off their seats and to their feat with his strong finish in the dash.

Mark Dobmeier to the big time
My brother-in law asked me when I predicted that Mark Dobmeier would make the jump up and join one of the traveling circuits like the NST or the World of Outlaws racing circuits. I think Mark should or could make the jump next season, in the goon’s opinion the kid is ready, however its all about being able to afford it and getting the right financial backing. If Mark has someone step up and sponser him Mark can be successful on either circuit. Mark has run strong with the big boys all season and there is no reason he can’t be successful with a full time ride.

Some of the best racing I have ever seen
I have watched a lot of races at the action track (River Cities Speedway) in Grand Forks, ND and have seen a good number of races in Fargo, ND (Red River Valley Speedway); in my opinion this was the best sprint car driving I have ever watched, there is no debating it, Sorry RRVS. That being said RRVS is probably one of the fastest dirt track in the country, however, it just isn’t as racy as the track as RCS. On a bull ring like RCS you have to be able to drive and work your way through lap traffic. That was the major difference between Lasoski and Dobmeier on Saturday night, in time Mark will gain the edge that Lasoski has.

Local drivers missing from top 12 in final race.
Mark Dobmeier was the only non-traveler to make the top 12 as the NST driver took 11 of the 12 top spots. Greg Nititenko was the next highest finisher at 14th place followed by local youngster Casey Mack.


A-Feature Finish 7-8-06
1 DANNY LASOSKI 83
2 TIM KAEDING 11K
3 JASON SOLWOLD R19
4 Mark Dobmeier 13
5 SHANE STEWART 26
6 JASON MEYERS 14
7 STEVE KINSER 11
8 DEAN JACOBS 6
9 PAUL McMAHAN 20
10 JASON SIDES 7S
11 BRIAN PAULUS 28
12 KERRY MADSEN 11H
13 Bill Balog 1H
14 Greg Nititenko 6N
15 Casey Mack 8
16 Tim Mulvaney 3
17 Tom Egeland 14x
18 Lou Kennedy 21K
19 Jade Fredrickson 41
20 Scott Butz 34
21 Johnn Cressman 56
22 Dave Sobczak 17
23 Scott McDonald 33
24 Bob Martin 10TR


* Lap 23 caution : 34 is off the track in 3 & 4 (Restarts)
* Lap 24 caution: 56 off the track in 3 & 4 (Restarts)
* Lap 35 caution: 28 is off the track in 1 & 2 (Restarts)

Goon's Ramblins 7-08-2006

This weeks Installment of Goon’s Ramblings

Goon's World Hits the Dirt Tracks
To some people’s shock: From time to time Goon's World will also cover racing during the summer. The off season can be very depressing, all there is to cover during this time transaction of former NCAA players and UND Fighting Sioux players leaving for greener pastures of professional hockey. The Goon enjoying dirt track racing and can be found many of Friday nights sitting in the stands at River Cities Speedway enjoying a Mike’s Hard Lemonade or a Miller Lite and watching racing. River Cities Speedway
Although River Cities Speedway is not Knoxville Raceway it does offer a good race program at an affordable price $12.00 a ticket if you buy them at one of the stores that sells race tickets. The El-Roco sells race tickets in its liquor store.

Player Leaving for the Pro’s
While it appears that Wisconsin up to this point had gone unscathed by players leaving early for the pros it is now being reported by the Wisconsin State Journal that Badger underclassman Joe Pavelski is considering a jump to the next level.

Center Joe Pavelski, a junior-to-be who led the Badgers in scoring the last two seasons, is engaged in talks with the San Jose Sharks that could result in him signing an NHL contract this summer.

This development would be a serious blow to the Badgers hockey team, Pavelski scores big goals at big times and is one of the more talented underclassmen on the Badgers hockey team. While I hate to see players leaving college early I don’t fault these kids for taking the money or entertaining the idea of improving their lot in life.
Elliot staying at Wisconsin for now?
The same newspaper is reporting that Badger Goalie Brian Elliot will be staying put in Madison for his senior season.

There is further evidence that the University of Wisconsin men's hockey team will retain the services of record-setting goaltender Brian Elliott for the coming season. Elliott recently took part in a prospects camp sponsored by the Ottawa Senators, who picked Elliott in the ninth round (291st overall) of the 2003 NHL Entry Draft.
Elliott, 21, was one of four goaltenders at the camp, which requires that U.S. college players or prospects pay their own way in order to retain their NCAA eligibility. A senior-to-be, Elliott showed Ottawa officials why he set UW records for goals-against average (1.55), save percentage (.938) and shutouts (eight) last season en route to being a finalist for the Hobey Baker Award. Bill Elliott, Brian's father, said he spoke with Senators officials during the camp, and they said they were happy with how his son was developing at UW. "He's going to be back there (at Wisconsin)," Bill Elliott said of his son.

While I earlier I had put Elliot on the Watch it was done so as more of a fishing expedition due to boredom. I was even quoted in Wisconsin Hockey Blog I personally predict that Elliot is still about 60/40. Elliot holds all the cards and I doubt that the Senators would risk losing Brain if he is not signed by August 15th of 2007. At that time Elliot could take offers as from any club if the Senators don’t sign him.

Golf Etiquette
Most of us are not scratch golfers or will we ever be. We play golf for the love of the game and as a way of killing time. It’s a hobby. Nothing makes me more upset than slow play and golfers with bad etiquette. I like to play quick and do not let the grass grow under my spikes.

Recently, I had the misfortune of following a very slow group of players. There were four older gentlemen all walking and all were having trouble staying the fairway, most of the time they were touring the fescue and taking forever on each hole. The course I play is Kings Walk Golf Course in Grand Forks, ND Kings Walk and on a windy day It can be very challenging and very long, its not for the faint of heart. When the wind blows the greens speed up and it can be possible to go driver, three wood eight iron to reach a 400 yard par 4. Using long irons and woods increases the possibility of a wayward shot and a high number. The grounds staff has smartly put red hazards stakes by the fescue on some of the harder longer holes, however, this doesn’t keep players from spending forever looking for their balls in the long grass of the courses various hazzards. My suggestion is when the course is busy and you can’t find your ball in a reasonable amount of time, take your drop and stroke and move on don’t continue looking for a ball that is not going to be found. The balls that go into the fescue grass become buried under the long grass and won’t be found unless you step on it. The difference between a bogey and a double bogey is not going to affect your score that much nor is it going to make much of a difference in the grand scheme of things.

When your playing group is slower than the group in front of you let them play through. Remember as each group stacks up behind you on the tee box your slow play is affecting others speed of play as well. In other words your throwing their games off too. Don’t glare at people when they hit into you, pick up your speed of play. Don’t take their balls or hit it back at them, its only going to cause more problems and cause more shots to be hit into your group. It should take no longer than 2 hours to play nine holes of golf.

Lastly when you finish putting, put the flag back in the cup and clear the green, don’t count strokes or put your score on the card, do that on the next tee. As soon as the green clears the group behind you will be ready to shoot their approach shot and the people on the tees behind them will be able to hit their tee shots.

Kaeding takes round one.

Tim Kaeding Drives Like a Genius to Win Night One.
Steve Kinser hired Tim Kaeding in the off season to drive the 11K Maxim and Tim Kaeding has not disappointed his new Boss Steve Kinser as Kaeding picked another feature win, winning the inaugural NST feature at River Cities Speedway on Friday night. This was the first time the NST has come to North Dakota and the only appearance that the NST will make this season in North Dakota (I hope a return trip is already being worked out by Donny Mack).

While it looked as if the feature event would be rained out, in the end the River Cities fans were not cheated. While watching the Late Models feature a light rain suddenly appeared at the River Cities Speedway (I swear a cloud always hangs over my head). At first it appeared as if the rain would never end, however, the light rain was short lived, causing a delay of about 30 minutes. Due to the quick thinking of the RCS grounds crew, as soon as the rain appeared the RCS pace truck driver motioned to the other trucks in the RCS infield to start driving around the track to pack in the much needed moisture. Due to the diligence and quick thinking of this track worker/official, the RCS crew was able to work the track into near perfect conditions, before the features the track had become a dry slick and need a serious drink of water. So mother-nature was good to RCS and luckily after the rain stopped falling the track was in near perfect conditions. In my opinion I would say the inaugural NST feature in North Dakota was an instant classic.

Night of Firsts
Last night was the first appearance of the NST North Dakota during the inaugural season. Last night was the first time the NST has raced in North Dakota (eat that Fargo, ND). This was also the first time the 20 time former World of Outlaws Champion has ever ran in Grand Forks, North Dakota. Steve Kinser’s first race in Grand Forks was a heat race, which Steve won. In Steve Kinser first feature at RCS he finished in third place.

Kinser is a Class Act
Kinser is definitely a favorite of the fans in Grand Forks, ND. On Thursday night Steve Kinser was present at the meet and great and stood out front of the River Cities Speedway in the in 90 degree weather to pose for numerous pictures, sign hundred of autographs on placards, hats, balls (no I am not kidding, Steve Kinser signed a soccer ball) and tee shirts. Steve Kinser is definitely a class act who is very approachable and pictures of Steve Kinser and his sprint car will be appearing soon on Goon’s World very soon.

How Kaeding ended up in the 11K
Tim Kaeding replaced Kraig Kinser used to drive the 11K Maxim but is now racing on the NASCAR Craftsman Truck SeriesKinser Craftsman Truck Stats. Kinser is 29th in series points and is currently 5 spots behind former WoO driver Erin Crocker.
Not New to the Winners Circle
Tim Kaeding is leading the NST sprint car series with 8 feature wins and is still only 31 points behind Danny “the Dude” Lasoski for the National Sprint Tour points standing lead. Kinser and Lasoski both have 4 feature wins each. Kinser is also leading the NST series with the most second place finishes.
NST Link

Mark Dobmeier is on a Tear
Dobmeier

It is the Opinion of Goon’s World: Mark Dobmeier is by far the best sprint car driver at the River Cities Speedway in Grand Forks if not the best driver on the NOSA circuit. First off: Mark has won 5 features at River Cities Speedway this season, while no other driver has won more than one race at RCS this season. Second: At times Mark has been so dominating, blowing the competition away by multiple car lengths leaving the competition in the dirt looking for seconds, At times it hasn’t even been funny as Mark has made the others look like fillers or also rans. Lastly it’s not just a local thing: Mark has taken the good driving on the road and been consistent all season.

Huset’s Points Leaders
Mark is also leading the points race at Husets Speedway by 6 points ahead of Jake Peters and leads the Huset’s Speedway (Brandon South Dakota, 320 miles from Grand Forks on I-90) with three feature wins. Huset’s Speedway is one of the most competitive best tracks in the upper Midwest if not the nation. Mark also finished 7th recently at a World out Outlaws feature in Eagle Nebraska and is currently 34th on the World of Outlaws points standings. Marks WoO Standings

New Bleachers Rule
RCS added new bleachers to the east at the RCS speedway this past spring and I must say that these new bleachers are totally awesome. Sitting in these seats you can see the whole race without having to strain your neck. Also, I probably should be telling anybody about these seat because next thing you know they will be full and we will have end up sitting in our old seats. The new bleachers sit high about turn one of the RCS speedway and the only obstacle is when the its really sunny it can get very hot in the east bleachers. Of course you know this won’t be a problem long because the days get shorter in August and we lose about a half hour of light by the end of the month.

A-Feature Finish 7-7-06
Pos First Last No.
1 TIM KAEDING 11K
2 JASON SOLWOLD R19
3 STEVE KINSER 11
4 DANNY LASOSKI 83
5 JASON MEYERS 14
6 DEAN JACOBS 6
7 BRIAN PAULUS 28
8 Mark Dobmeier 13
9 Dave Sobczak 17
10 KERRY MADSEN 11H
11 SHANE STEWART 26
12 PAUL McMAHAN 20
13 JASON SIDES 7S
14 Casey Mack 8
15 Greg Nititenko 6N
16 Bob Martin 10TR
17 Wade Nygaard 9
18 Tim Mulvaney 3
19 Dave Glennon 5x
20 Chris Shirek 1
21 Johnn Cressman 56
22 Lou Kennedy 21K
23 Bill Balog 1H
24 Chris Burke 81

Lap Leaders:
Jason Solwald R19 -- Laps (1-7)
Steve Kinser 11 -- Laps (21-23)
Tim Kaeding 11K -- Laps (8-20), (24-30)

Its Official Jordan Parise Signs with New Jersey.

Star Goalie foregoes his senior year of elgibility
It has been rummored for sometime now but it became official just in the past day or so. Jordan Parise has signed a professional contract to play with the New Jersey Devils system.

Press Release from GDI the Goaltender
Parise signs with Devils...GDI's Jordan Parise signed a two-year deal with the New Jersey Devils.

The New Jersey Devils signed GDI goaltender Jordan Parise to a two-year contract when the free agent market opened up on July 1.

Parise had another great season between the pipes for North Dakota. He guided the Sioux to the NCAA's final four for the second consecutive year.

Goon's Perspective on the Parise Signing
First off Jordan's signing a pro contract is a shock to no one because it had been rumored in the media for some time now, almost since the sesaon ended. That being said, Jordan's signing causes a big hole in the Fighting Sioux roster, Jordan was the cog in the Sioux defense. Jordan Parise has been a stalwart in UND's past two Frozen Four playoff runs and his leadership will be missed by the Sioux hockey team.

Lets get it on. The Big Boys are coming to town.

Tyler Walker
Tyler doesn't show at NST Show
Apparently Tyler Walker forgot to show up for the NST show in Grand Forks on Friday night after telling the fans he planned on running the NST Show.
NST Makes it debut in Grand Forks on Friday
The 7th and 8th of July marks the debut of the National Sprint Tour. This is s must see show if you are a WoO fan or a dirt track racing fan. The National Sprint Tour formed last winter after a few of the WoO drivers broke away from WoO and formed their own Sprint Car racing league. Taking the King of the OutLaws Steve Kinser with them. NST
Kinser Last Hurrah
There is a rumor going around that this is going to be Steve Kinser last year racing full time in a Sprint Car. The latest is that Kinser is going to retire this winter and Run the newly formed NST. The promoter Fred Browsfield of the newly formed Sprint Car League was killed a few weeks ago during an on track incident in Grays Harbor Speedway Washington. Brownsfield was Killed while lining up cars for a D Feature. Brownsfield was only 53 years old.
NST
NST WEB Page
The Offical Press Release on the NST
Introducing the National Sprint Tour!
Brownfield Promotions, Inc. is pleased and excited to announce the formation of the National Sprint Tour with plans to promote dirt track Sprint Car racing nationally starting with the 2006 season.

The new National Sprint Tour will feature many of the best sprint car drivers and teams in the world and bring the best in 410 winged Sprint Car racing to tracks throughout the country.

Teams and drivers committed to racing with the National Sprint Tour in 2006 include Danny Lasoski (Roth Motorsports), Jason Meyers (Elite Racing), Brian Paulus (P and P Motorsports), Woodward Racing’s Volcano Joe’s #2, Steve Kinser (Steve Kinser Racing), Shane Stewart (Rudeen Racing), Tim Shaffer (Parsons Motorsports), Brandon Wimmer (Two Winners Racing), Jason Solwold (Lon Carnahan Motorsports), Jason Sides (Sides Motorsports) and Lucas Wolfe (David Helm/Selma Shell Racing).

When asked his opinion on the formation of the National Sprint Tour, race team representative attorney John Deckard commented, “These dozen or so teams and drivers represent the majority of the very best the sport has to offer. Some of them are like ‘fine wine’; others are young Turks ready to explode. The real winners are going to be the fans. The race program itself will be much more exciting, and of course, they’ll get to see the likes of The Dude, Jason Meyers, Shane, The King, Brian, Jason, Tim and all the rest that stand on 800 horsepower of dynamite to get to the front. I can’t wait. You wanted the best; here they are!”

“I’m excited that something’s finally going to happen here,” commented Steve “The King” Kinser. “I’ve had lots of ups and downs over what’s happened here this winter,” continued the Bloomington, IN driver, “and I feel very fortunate to be a part of starting the series although it is going to be a tough thing. But, I think overall it is the best for what is happening and we are going to make it work.”

“On behalf of myself and Dennis Roth Motorsports we’re really excited to take on this endeavor with this new series to come out,” said Danny “The Dude” Lasoski of Dover, MO. “I feel we are racing the best of the best in the United States and I’m sure we gotta crawl before we walk. I think all the fans out there are going to understand that we are trying to make this sport bigger and better and I support it wholeheartedly.”

"I think this will be good for the whole sport in getting Fred Brownfield behind the new group" commented Jason Sides of Bartlett, TN. “Everyone knows that Fred promotes good racing and we believe it will succeed. I’m really looking forward to the new season.”

Bixby, OK driver Shane Stewart commented, “Working with Fred has always been a privilege, and once they get the National Sprint Tour introduced to the tracks and fans everything should be fine. Maybe the Pettys dropping out of the other group was a good thing as it allows the Brownfield involvement. I know Rudeen Racing and myself are ready for a change and we are looking forward to what we think will be a success.”

“I think this is a really neat and pretty exciting deal,” said Tim Shaffer from Aliquippa, PA. “As a successful businessman, promoter and former driver, Fred has a great background to bring this new deal to the racers. Having been on both sides of the fence, he can understand the wants and desires of both the tracks and the drivers. I also think it is great the way the drivers and everyone is working together to make this a success.”

“There has obviously been a need for a change in the world of Sprint Car racing for the last couple of years,” said Brian Paulus of Mechanicsburg, PA. “Something needed to change. We needed somebody that had the passion about this that wanted to be as instrumental about it as the teams themselves. For Fred to get involved and step up to the plate at this stage of the game is pretty important to all of us teams. He is someone we all trust and respect and I think his rapport with the tracks and promoters will be a step in the right direction. One thing I hope the fans get out of this in the long run is that none of our teams, including Kinser and Lasoski, did this for the money. Look at our teams and all the time and effort we are putting in to this to make it successful; we’ve all pretty much laid our careers on the line with this when we all could have just signed on the line and gone back to race where we came from. We are all willing to do this to race for less money, less tow money and probably fewer dates. We are willing to do this to make the sport better in the long run and it might not be in the next year or two but if the tracks and fans support us in five or six years it could be huge.”

Elliot Watch is offically on.

Badger Goalie Elliot

Elliot Watch is officially on.
Because it is summer and I have nothing better to do and my golf game is already in midseason form I am offically starting the Elliot watch. Although Badger fans are assuring everyone that Elliot that he is safe and returning for his senior season I say B.S. Elliot is a top line goalie that has to have pro scouts drowling all over them selves. Elliot was by far the best goalie in college hockey this past season. In fact Elliot has nothing to gain by coming back for another season. Elliots stock also couldn't be higher. I know Badger fans are worried because Elliots backup Shane Connelly is brutal and with him as the starter the Badgers are not the same team.

The View of INCH
Brian Elliott, Wisconsin (Ottawa Senators)

The Senators don’t need to rush a goaltender to the NHL level – 23-year-old Ray Emery seems ready to take the reins from Dominik Hasek, who may or may not be back as an unrestricted free agent. Elliott has said the right things about coming back, but he doesn’t have anything to prove at the college level, and goalies almost always need a year or two of AHL seasoning. A change of heart wouldn’t be a shock

River Cities Speedway.

Natalie Sathers Sprint Car
Natalie Sather: Not just a pretty Face.
Since Red River Valley Speedway dumped its sprints program this season, River Cities Speedway fans have been given a bigger field of sprint cars for their nightly Friday night show. One of the drivers making the trip from Fargo, ND has been Fargo’s up and coming female sprint car driver Natalie Sather. Natalie Sather is teamed up with
Hall of Fame Crew Chief and Car Owner Kenny Woodruff. Althought Natalie is an
Natalie attractive young lady the woman can flat out drive and has added another good sprint car driver to the River Cities line up. Natalie's strongest finish at River Cities Speedway was on May 30th when she finished 3rd in the feature, where 18 other guys can say hey I got beat by a woman. Natalie has also raced on the ASCS.
ASCS

The Jordan Parise Watch is On.

Jordan Parise
The Parise Watch is on
It has been reported that Fighting Sioux goalie Jordan Parise will be signing a Professional contract at the free agent signing date that is on July 1st. This is a huge loss for the Fighting Sioux hockey team. Parise has been stellar leading UND to two consecutive frozen fours. Jordan will be missed if he does in fact forgo his final year.

Parise Career Stats: A Hard Act to Follow.
Jordan Parise posted some pretty impressive numbers over his three season.
Parise this past season elevated himself to one of UND's best all-time goaltenders.

GP Save% GAA Record Win%
1 Jordan Parise JR 83 .921 2.14 55-20- 7 .713

1st - Career save percentage (.921)
1st - Career goals against average (2.14)
2nd - Career wins (55)
2nd - Career shutouts (10)
3rd - Career winning percentage (.713)
6th - Career games played (83)
(as posted on Fighting Sioux Sports)

Jordan's Leaving, hurts UND's Chances
If Jordan leaves the Fighting Sioux hockey team it is a huge loss to UND's Chances of Making it to the Frozen Four for a third year in a row. That being said I still have confidence in the Fighting Sioux defense and the players they have returning.

Elliot Watch officially on.
Badger fans are hoping that their star shut down goalie is not leaving to go pro. Personally I think Elliot has nothing to gain and should go pro. So offically Goon's world has put Elliot on the list. THE ELLIOT WATCH is Officially on.

For Old Time Sake
Goon's World would like to take this oportunity to say one more time for old time sake that Jordan Parise is by far a better goaltender than Kellin Briggs, in fact Philippe Lamoureux is a better goaltender that Kellin Briggs.

Mike Commodore on Wikipedia.

Mike in a Calgary Uniform
Commodore on Wikipedia
I found this will surfing the web tonight. It actually very interesting.
Mike's Link

Sprint Car Racing at its best. The NST comes to Grand Forks.

The Dude Lasoski's Car
NST Tour Hits Grand Forks July 7th and 8th.
Next weekend the National Sprint tour makes its inaugural trip to River Cities Speedway. The NST was created this past winter after a few drivers from the World of Outlaws broke away from dirt motorsports to form a separate sprint car tour. The race will feature some of the countries top sprint car drivers known to dirt track nationally. Recently during June the The River Cities Speedway had a non-sanctioned sprint car race. Tyler Walker, Danny Lasoski and Greg Wilson (All Stars Circuit of Champions Points leader)Greg Wilson's Car and crew Chief
At the end of the Night former NASCAR BUSCH Series driver Tyler Walker won the race and ended up taking home $5000.00 for the victory. Tyler has been driving the Guy Forbrook car (Mark Kinser old car) and said he plans to be back for the National Sprint Tour event in July. People might ask me where I got this information? I heard this when a fan asked him in the pits after the race at River Cities Speedway if he was going to be back in July? Tyler said, that he would be back.
Tyler Walker's Sprint Car

Bruins Dump Mike Sullivan as coach of Bruins.

Bruins relieve Mike Sullivan of coaching duties

The Boston Bruins announced today that Mike Sullivan has been relieved of his duties as Head Coach of the team. The announcement was made by Bruins Interim General Manager Jeff Gorton.

"Peter had not met Mike prior to coming to Boston and he felt that it was incumbent upon him to get to know Mike before making a decision on the coaching situation," said Gorton. "Mike went to Ottawa a couple of weeks ago and they had a good discussion about the game and how it needed to be played in order to have success. Peter advised Mike that he would be talking to other candidates. He went through that process and his decision was that at this time we are better served to have a clean slate."

"Peter communicated to us that he has talked to candidates and expects to give us his decision on a new head coach in the near future," continued Gorton.

Goon's World Opinion on the matter.
As a Bruins fan it was frustrating watching the Bruins play this past season. They were competitive but made some bone headed moves during the season. Trading Joe Thornton broke my heart and had me rethinking my allegiance to the Bruins franchise. I think dumping Sullivan was the right call, the Bruins a once proud franchise can not afford to be finishing in the cellar every season, losing is unacceptable. The Bruin's have not won a Stanley Cup since the 1970's and need to make some big changes if they are to once again make a run at Lord Stanley Cup.

Roli give Peca a Break.

Link to Roli's great play
Wether you like Roli or Pecca or not, this is a good play.
Check out this play this is an awesome play by Roli the goalie. When asked if Roli was going to resign with the Oilers in the off season Dwayne Roloson was non-comital. I will wait and see what free agency brings me. Add to this that Chris Pronger has asked to be traded. I suppose he wants to go back to St Louis and play with Erik Johnson.

Goon's Rambling 6-26-2006

Toews is a Black Hawk
Toews is Highest UND pick in entry draft
Jonathon Toews became the highest pick ever in UND Fighting Sioux History history the previous high pick was former Fighting Sioux Player Jason Herter. So the Fighting Sioux have another 1st round draft choice.

Red Line Report on Toews
The most complete all around forward in this draft. Supremely skilled and creative center with great hands and touch around the net. A real sniper who has tremendous patience with puck around the crease. Has a wicked wrsit shot that he can pinpoint to any corner he wants--buries his chances. Excellent anticipation and the puck always seems to find him; has the knack for being in the right place at right time. Gets the puck to his wingers in great position. Was the youngest player in U.S. collegiate hockey, yet was a key member of top 10 club. Can play any style. Will muscle defenders off the puck down low, then drive out of the corners and make plays on net. Superb hockey intelligence in all three zones and is extremely aware and responsible defensively. Comes back deep to help out "D" and is good on faceoffs.
Projection: Complete two-way centre who scores.
Style compares to: Rod Brind'Amour

Is Toews the nexts to leave UND?
There is a good to decent chance that Toews could be the next Fighting Sioux hockey player to become a former Sioux Hockey Player. Goon's world is holding his breath and hoping he stays just one more season. Toews has been on record of saying that he doesn't want to bounce around from the Minors to the NHL and wouldn't mind playing at UND a little long. The Towes watch is officially on. Goon's plea to Toews: Please Jonathon Toews stay one more year in Grand Forks. We really would love to see you stay at UND.
Bruins Draft Kessel
Kessel A Bruin ugh
Goon's World is disappointed to announced that the Boston Bruins, a once storied original 6 team and former Stanley Cup Champion decided to draft Gopher cry baby and Prima Donna Phil Kessel in the 2006 entry draft. The Bruins used to 5th pick to take Phil. I can't say that I have ever been more disapointed in the Bruins Franchise. Well, except maybe the day that they traded Ray Bourque to Colorado.
Goon's Take on Bruins Signing Kessel
I know Gopher fans are going to be upset with me but I just can't stand Kessel. I mean really, every since his stupid press conference on where he was going to attend college WCHA fans had had to stomach all Kessel all the time.

In the Goon's opinion TJ Oshie was the better freshman in the WCHA and should have been the Rookie of the Year. Of course they ended up giving the award to Phil Kessel because the league had backed itself into a corner and had to give the award to Phil. The word out of Madison was that Jack Skille and Kessel don't get along and despise each other so Phil decided to go to Minnesota instead of the home town BADgers.

Realistically speaking, I know Phil Kessel is a good hockey player, its evident by the numbers he put up in the WCHA last season. However, I just think the wonder kid is an ass in my opinion, I don't know him personally but I just don't like how he carries himself.

Also, Mr Kessel need to learn that contrary to public belief the world doesn't revolve around Phil Kessel, and I am sure the Bruins will teach him soon enough that he is not above the organization he is playing for. Rumor is that Phil is going to sign and play pro hockey. Personally I hope he likes Providence Rhode Island (that is where the B's farm team is). Phil was quoted as saying I didn't dream about playing hockey in college I dreamed of playing hockey in the NHL. I am sure T-Don is happy with comment. Notice Mr Toews is a little more elegant in his speaking to the media. Ok to think that but you might want to word your responses a little better.

Goon's Ramblins 6-21-2006

Commie and The Canes Win the Stanley Cup
Commodore and the Canes win the Cup
The 2006 NHL season came to a thunderous end when the Canes KO'ed the Edmonton Oilers, what a series of hockey. This Stanley Cup in my opinion was one of the best Stanley Cups ever, and I saw everyone of the Oilers and Islanders cup wins during the 1980's and this series took the cake. This Stanley Cup series blew all of the rest of them away its not even close. In these series; there were up and down the ice action and not one bit of hooking and holding to be seen.

Some of the so called experts are going to say that this wasn't a good game for Hockey. I could also care less if the big time media in the big time markets like Toronto, New York and L.A. like it or not. As far as I am concerned CBC and OLN/NBC did a good job on the Television coverage.

Please Big Mike bring the Cup back to Grand Forks.

Hey Mike What do you say?
Goon's World is hoping Mike Commodore will bring the cup back to Grand Forks, ND like Eddie "the Eagle" Belfour did in 1999. Mike Commodore is going to be the 8th UND hockey player to have his name put on the Stanley Cup the great throphy in all of professional sports.

Not over yet
I suppose some could say that I am rushing it a bit because the series is not over. The Oilers are toast, stick a fork into them. Their title hopes when down the drain when Roli went down to a season ending injury in game one. The Oiler fans are going to wait for the cup to return to Edmonton because Canes are a team of destiny carried on the backs of Eric Staal and Rod Brind'Amour, Staal got going last night by assisting on two goals. The game is over on Wednesday night you can bet on it. The Canes do not want to go back to Edmonton, finish it on Wednesday night. Please I am going to lake on Friday night and I can't handle not being able to see the game if there is one.

Goon's Ramblings 6-11-2006

Check out this cool web site
Cane's Blog

If you go half way down the page you will see there is awesome clip on goalie Cam Ward and the way he has played, the Kid (he is only 22 years old) has been a stone wall in the playoffs after playing ok during the regular season. I am sure many of the Cane's fans are going Martin who? What a nice issue to have as a hockey club, you have two (2) top notch goalies that can play. I wonder if Carolina will be able to afford them both. Talk about a two headed monster

You heard it here first
Rob Brind'Amour is going to win the Conn Smyth, Brind’Amour is playing like a man that is possessed, he is on fire scoring big goals and winning key draws. Apparently Brind'Amour is also one of the physically fittest athletes in the NHL. When he used to be a Philadelphia Flyer I couldn't stand him but I have come to appreciate his effort and heart. Brind Amour is the prototypical leader/captain he is gritty and relentless.

Local Flavor of the North Country
These Stanley Cup playoffs have really been awesome, but the finals are even better. The Carolina Hurricanes sports three players with roots to the WCHA, Saint Cloud State Universities and Moorhead high school’s (Moorhead Minnesota) own Matt Cullen and St Paul’s Bret Hedican, who is also a Saint Cloud State University Husky Alum. The one most Sioux fans are most proud of is Mike Commodore, the man is a folk hero wherever he goes has gained star status in Carolina

Goon's Ramblings

From Charley Walters
Wild assistant general manager/player personnel Tommy Thompson on Friday in Toronto interviewed Erik Johnson of Bloomington, Phil Kessel of the Gophers, Kyle Okposo of St. Paul and Peter Mueller of Bloomington. All are expected to be among the top 12 players chosen in the June 24 NHL draft.

Johnson is expected to be the No. 1 overall pick, Kessel among the top five. The Wild have the Nos. 9 and 17 picks, and Mueller or Okposo could end up being the Wild's first pick. If the Oilers win the Stanley Cup, the Wild's No. 17 pick would become the No. 30 pick.

In his interview with the Wild, Kessel said he enjoyed his freshman season with the Gophers except for the disappointing season-ending upset playoff loss to Holy Cross and said playing for Team USA in the recent world championships improved his confidence.

Kessel said whether he returns for his sophomore season at Minnesota will depend on which team drafts him and that team's needs. The same for Johnson, who has committed to the Gophers.

Goon's Perspective on this
The quickest way to make a Gopher fan mad at you is to tell them that Erik Johnson will never wear an "M". You might even get a punch thrown at you. If Johnson doesn't make it to the University of Minnesota next season I think it could be devastating to the Gophers chances. The Gopher defense is not very good as it stands right now and they need a big man that plays a shut down game. Most of the Gophers defensemen are great wings disguised as D-Man, great on offense but have no idea where the blue line is.

I would not be surprised to see Kessel gone from the Gophers roster next season.
The NHL is changing to a skating game and Kessel's style suits the NHL game as it stands right now. The NHL is show casing skating teams that can get up and down the ice, not a bunch of poor skating Goon's the size of middle linebackers like Georges Laraque who add nothing to the game but to get into numerous fights and play three shifts a game adding nothing to the score sheets but PIMS.

Speaking of Georges Laraque
At the end of Wednesday's game, and the results all but in the books with the Canes leading 5-0, Edmonton Goon Georges Laraque laid one of the Carolina Players out with a dirty checking from behind hit (I believe it was one of the Adams boys). This hit was one of the cheapest hits I have seen during this season's Stanley Cup playoffs. There is no room for these types of hits in Hockey on any level. Checking from behind is a gutless, cheap, dangerous play. Erik Cole was taken out by the same kind of play by Pens defenseman Former B.C. Eagle Brooks Orpik. It was no mystery why big George was out on the ice for. Laraque was out there to start a fight and rally his team.

While I like fighting and think its part of hockey, act of violence like checking from behind, spearing, blatant high sticking have no room or place in hockey. I hope Commie gives Laraque his due and smacks him around a bit.

Update on the Commodore Side Show
Just to keep everyone updated on the Commodore Side Show (ala former third liner Nate Miller from KFAN). Mike made a big play that probably saved a goal and turned the game around in Carolina’s Favor. With Edmonton leading the game 3-0 Mike Commodore had a huge shot block, in the ensuing play the puck was brought back up ice and resulted in the puck being deposited in the net by Rod Brind’Amour.

Rumors confirmed that Jordan Parise is going pro.

Chris Heisenberg is reporting that Parise will not coming back in the fall for his senior season as it has been rumored for some time now. The link to Heisenberg's site
Heisenberg states, "today brings confirmation (long rumored by the North Dakota fans) that Wellington Dukes goalie Anthony Grieco will be enrolling this August to back up Phil Lamoureux."

Parise is the fifth Fighting Sioux players to opt out for the pros.

Here is a look at Grieco's Numbers for the Wellington Dukes this past year:
Grieco played in 26 games posting a 17-4-3 record with GAA of 2.28 and impressive Save Percentage of .906 in an offensive minded league. Goon's World would like to welcome the latest addition to the Fighting Sioux Roster. As it stands today there should still be a good nucleous on defense to protect the Fighting Sioux Goal.

Random Thoughts: 6-2-06

Parise is better than Briggs
Here is an interesting post that I found on Rube Chat Post and it its a gem.

Here are Parise's and Briggs' numbers last year. If Praise is a suckhole the give me an honest opinion on Briggs. He was not in the top 20 goalies in the nation I know that. Remember that goal against HC where he stood there looking up while the puck was at his feet? That is your goaltender for next year. If he can't get it together it could be the same happy ending again.

Goaltending Leaders
Name, Yr GP W L T GA MIN GAA SH SV SV%
Jordan Parise, Jr 34 24 9 1 74 2017 2.20 6 968 .929


Goaltending Leaders
Name, Yr GP W L T GA MIN GAA SH SV SV%
Kellen Briggs, Jr 32 21 6 3 78 1832 2.55 3 737 .904

Commodore a Side Show
Yesterday on PA and Dubay, Former Golden Gopher 3rd Liner and Miracle Star Nate Miller reffered to Former Sioux Mike Commodore as a Side show. It was also added by Jeff Dubay that he was a clown's nose away from being Bozo.

Rumor Central: Jordan Parise is gone.

Parise Going Pro?
I have heard this rumor a few times in my travels around town that Jordan Parise is going to sign a pro contract on the first of July, which to me is mind blowing if you saw the way he played during the frozen four. So apparently there are 4 teams have interviewed Jordan and the word around rumor central is that Jordan is as good as gone, he is not coming back. I have been told it time to except the fact that Jordan is gone and he is not coming back to the fighting sioux in the fall.

New Goalie Coming in
To replace Jordan there is going to be a 6'2" Canadian coming in to replace Jordy. I am being told this kid is going to be a ringer, a shut down goalie that is a stud.
I sure hope this kid can play because I believe without Jordy or a good goalie UND will flounder with Phil in the nets. No offense to Sioux fans but over the past two seasons Phil has give us no indication that he is starter material. However, No matter how many short comings Phil has, he is still beter goaltender than Gopher resident sieve Kellen Briggs from the University of Minnesota Golden Gophers.

Check this out. Nick Name arguments. Classic.

I found this on line at: Sioux Sports It brings up some interesting points I never considered. Some of them are really good.
Join the Club
Dave Lawlor - Bellmore, N.Y.
Wall Street Journal Opinion

I have never understood the objection to using these names as mascots and team nicknames. The names are used to inspire pride, teamwork and inspiration. There is nothing degrading about it.

But if they are so degrading to these groups, why do not speak out for the other groups:

New Orleans Saints - offensive to Christians

New Jersey Devils - offensive to Satanic cults

Boston Celtics - offensive to the Irish

Minnesota Vikings - offensive to our Nordic brothers

Bruins, Tigers, Dolphins, Grizzlies, etc--all offensive to PETA

New England Patriots - offensive to all the America haters on the left!


Dallas Cowboys - offensive to Indians!

Calgary Flames - this is clearly offensive to the gay community

Edmonton Oilers - offensive to environmental wackos everywhere!!

Houston Texans - this is probably offensive to those who live in Texas!

New York Knicks - this is offensive to New Yorkers right now (but just because they're soooo bad)

Cincinnati Reds - offensive to our communist comrades out there

Los Angeles Dodgers - offensive to Bill Clinton and other draft dodgers!

Happy Memorial Day from Goon's World.

Happy Memorial Day:

Monday the 29th of May 2006 is Memorial Day. Memorial Day is a national holiday, however, to some it’s just an extra day off work, some use it to go to the lake, others it’s the Indianapolis 500. I will play in a golf tourney at Kings Walk golf course. Enjoy the day and remember to be safe. If you drink find a designated driver.

Lets not forget the real reason we have Memorial Day. Memorial Day was established to honor our nations hero’s who have fallen on the field of battle defending this great nation. On battlefield in far away places like Normandy Beach, Bastogne, Market Garden, Ardennes, Omaha Beach, Korea, Vietnam, Grenada, Panama, Kuwait, Ramadi, Karbala, Baghdad. Remember the Marines, Sailors, Airmen and Soldiers who are away from their families fighting for our country. Lets also not forget the police and fire fighters that had made the ultimate sacrifice protecting the communities they work and live in.

Lets also not forget that freedom is not free. Some people paid for our freedoms with their lives. Memorial Day should be a day of reflection, a moment of silence to remember the many men and women who gave their life in defense of this great nation.
Memorial Day Tribute to Veterans


Michael Hermanson
In conclusion Goon’s World would like to express our condolences to the family of
Specialist Michael L. Hermanson who was killed in action in Iraq on Tuesday, May 23. The Soldier was participating in a combat patrol mission. Specialist Hermanson was only 21 years old.

No. 474-06 IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 24, 2006 Media Contact: Army Public Affairs - (703) 692-2000
Public/Industry(703)428-0711

DoD Identifies Army Casualty
The Department of Defense announced today the death of a soldier who was
supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Spc. Michael L. Hermanson, 21, of Fargo, N.D., died on May 23, in AL
Abayachi, Iraq, of injuries sustained when his RG-31 Mine Protected Vehicle
came under improvised explosive device, rocket propel grenade and enemy small
arms fire while on a route-clearing mission during combat operations.
Hermanson was assigned to the Army National Guard's 164th Engineer Battalion,
Minot, N.D.

For further information related to this release, contact Army Public Affairs
at (703) 692-2000.

Calgary not big on College hockey players. Lucia and Calgary at odds.

Here is the link to the article seems like Calgary was contacting Chris Chucko during his college season and trying to sign him. In my opinion that is bush league.Lucia and Calgary Disagreement

Calgary should be ashamed of themelves.

Donny's take on the whole thing

My whole point was that they were calling him during the season and trying to get him to leave our program," Lucia said of his Star-Tribune comments. "That's what I was really disappointed about. If they want to sign him or any other player at the end of the year, that's the NHL's prerogative. In all the years I've coached, I've never had a team do that. I thought that was very unprofessional of them. We're coaching them at this level, and I think, for the most part, NHL teams should leave the player alone during the course of a season."



However the two clubs view it, the issue is not Kris Chucko. The controversy surrounding his signing simply presents an opportunity to examine the relationship between college hockey and the NHL, and the college game's place in the hockey world.

I used to have respect for Calgary as an organization, however, after this not anymore. I cheered the night they were eliminated from the Stanley Cup playoffs. In the future leave the kids alone until they finish their season. I think its sad how college hockey has become a revolving door. Two years and done. Sounds like a major junior team from Canada only its happening in a town near you in Grand Forks, Minneapolis, and Madison. I know its the chances you take recruiting the best talent.

More Departures. This time it may be more for the Gophers.

Frazee might be gone.
Fiona Quick from the Minnesota hockey Journel: is reporting that Gopher Goalie Jeff Frazee will leave the University of Minnesota program and the Gophers will bring in committed netminding prospect Alex Kangas early to fill his position. However, there is no absolute confirmation yet.

My only question is why report it if there is no definate press release as of yet.
I suppose he will go play in Major Juniors somewhere. When he was first signed it was pontificated that Jeff was going to be the shut down goalie the Gophers were looking for. Now they will look to Alex Kangas.

Now if we can get through the summer without too many more defections. Its starting to look like the Soviet Union during the 1980's.

Linkorama

Check out some of the other blogs that I read and what they have to say about the Round Table Discussion. I think you will find their perspectives interesting.
I will update them as they post the questions to the Ciskie Roundtable.

WCHA Blog
UAA Fan Blog
Ciske Blog
The DECC is stacked
Running with the Dogs
Wisconsin Hockey Blog

Round Table discussion. Improving the game.

The Voice of the UMD Bull Dawgs Bruce Ciske Ciske Bloghas posed a number of questions to college hockey bloggers on what part of the rules we would like to see changed to make college hockey a better sport to watch.

Has the college game truly seen in increase in stick work in recent years?

In my opinion there is too much stick work in college hockey and it does affect the game quite a bit. In my opinion there is way too much stick work/stick swinging in NCAA hockey. I think a lot of it has to do with the full shield/mask and the disqualification penalty for fighting. If a player knows he is going to get clobbered for using his stick they are going to think twice about high sticking someone. Stick work is dangerous and there is no room for it in college hockey.

Although the NCAA would never approve of this, I am all for getting rid of the DQ penalty for fighting and giving the players only a five minute major and a game misconduct for fighting. I laugh when I hear people say that fighting is not part of the game of hockey but it is. That way a player wouldn't be punished so severely for fighting and it would allow the game to police itself, allow some fighting in college hockey and I think that the amount of stick work would go down in the NCAA. I think the amount of stick work would go down in the NCAA.

Do officials do a good job of calling "clutch-and-grab" infractions consistently?
I feel that the officials in the college hockey do not do a good job of calling the clutching and grabbing, hooking and holding and interference. It is the Goon's opinion that WCHA officials allow way too much interference. If you watched WCHA hockey on a regular basis you would see that certain teams even the national champion Wisconsin Badgers do quite a bit of the clutching and grabbing that goes uncalled and is basically over looked.

Earlier this winter I asked the head of the WCHA officials one time why the WCHA couldn't call the game like the NHL is right now. Sheppard's response to my question was that the league coaches would never go for it. What I am a little confused here. The WCHA will not call the game the way its supposed be called because the coaches will never go for it.

This adds to confusion that hooking, holding, obstruction is some how confused with smart defensive hockey and being a system. In the Goon's opinion this is horrible a line of thinking. In my humble opinion Is what is wrong with college hockey today. It also means your team can not skate with the uptempo teams like the Gophers, Sioux, Tigers, Eagles, Pioneers and this is your teams only hope of winning. If you're a coach and your team can't play the game the way its suppose to you might need to recruit some players that can skate. Get quicker defenseman or a goalie that can stop a ton of shots.

Here is an example of hockey the way it is suppose to be played. The Buffalo Sabres are a team made up of role players that can all skate. Gone are the Rob Rays and Brad Mays. Each player is awesome on their skates. They ran the Flyers right out of the building for 6 games. Philly was lucky to win two games. This is the way that college hockey should be played. Not some of the crap we say the last couple of years.

A perfect example of hockey that is hard to watch is rewind to the Cornell and Wisconsin game. That was god aweful hockey. No offense to the champs to the East but I just don't want to watch that crap. That is what the NHL was two years ago before they decided to start calling the game the way is supposed to be called. , God awful hockey to watch.

What do you think of the "checking from behind" crackdown?

I think the checking from behind penalty has to be cleaned up a bit. The rule book needs to be tweaked a bit to be more flexible. I have see the 5 minute major CFB penalty called when in fact it should have only been a two minute minor. The refs took it too far and called hits that weren't checking from behind-checking from behind. I don't have a problem with the league calling more CFB penalties but please lets make sure that it was actally a penatly. This is a sore spot for me and not going to waste a lot of time talking about it since the Fighting Sioux seemed to get called for this a lot in the last season and I think a lot of them weren't warranted.

What NHL rules change would you like to see adopted in college hockey, and which one do you want college hockey to stay away from?

The only thing I really want from college hockey is that I would like to see the game called the way its suppose to be called. Please call the penalties like the NHL, the game has sped up a lot. No longer are you seeing the neutral zone trap as much. That is horrible hockey to watch.

I would also like to see the 4x4 overtime followed by a shoot out. Why not. Its exciting hockey. I know hockey purist hate it but once you get to overtime I think both team should be rewarded with at least one point. Even in the NCAA.


What do you think of the increased use of replay in college hockey?

I would like to see the NCAA tweak this policy too. Use more than one camera angle, I was watching a game where Michigan scored a goal but since the replay didn't have the right angle a sure goal was ruled a no goal, the puck was clearly in the net. The puck did in fact go into the net, everyone saw it except the replay officials. What a shame it could have cost Michigan a trip to the playoffs. The NCAA needs to get this right.

What is one random change you'd like to see made in hockey?

I have been accussed of being off message a lot so here goes I have pretty much covered this alreay. The fighting penalties this should not be confused with promoting fighting but making the penalties more realistic. Fighting happens in hockey people need to realize this. The threat of getting your but kicked for committing an agregious act should get players to play smarter and maybe cause them to look over their shoulder next time they commit a dirty act. Change the DQ to a game disqualificaiton.

Battle of the Titans; Sabres and Canes. Goon's World Predicts the series.

Series Preview
The battle of the century is about to take place starting on Saturday at 2:00 pm eastern time at the Royal Bank of Canada Center in North Carolina . The new NHL is benefiting both teams. The Hurricanes are playing the highflying Buffalo Sabres. Both teams are loaded with talented players that can flat out skate and score goals in bunches. Make a mistake against either team and they will bury the opposition. That Buffalo Sabres are relentless, and they don’t give up many chances in the defensive zone, ask the Senators who are now playing golf at a local golf course in the Ottawa.

The Sabres
The Sabres feature a well balanced offensive attack. They are lead by Chris Drury 6 goals and 7 assists for 13 points and Daniel Briere 4 goals and 9 assists for 13 points. Drury is known for scoring big goals in big games and scored the winning goal in game one of against the Senators. In goal former Michigan State star Ryan Miller has been rock solid posting a .921 save percentage.

The Canes
The Hurricanes are lead by Eric Staal who has 5 goals and 10 assists for 15 points 2nd in scoring during the NHL playoffs and Rod Brind’amore who has 6 goals and 5 assists for 11 points. Cam Ward took over for Martin Gerber in game three of the first round against the Montreal and has gone 8-1 in 9 starts posting a .930 save percentage.

The prediction
I believe the Hurricanes will win the series in 6 games. This will be an exciting hard fought series with a lot of up and down the ice action. The team that stays out of the penalty box and limits the number of stupid penalties will win and this series. The Hurricanes scored 5 power play goals in game one of their series against the New Jersey Devils.

Commodore and the Canes shut down Devils.

What appeared to an intriguing match up for Sioux fan’s. A virtual can’t lose series from the beginning. True hockey fans were not cheated as in fact it did end up being a very good series to watch, well I suppose if you’re a Hurricanes fan. From the other side of the coin, if you are a Devils Fan the series didn’t live up to the billing. The series included Fighting Sioux hockey players Mike Commodore on the Carolina Hurricanes. On the Devils Zach Parise and David Hale.

Fan favorite Mike Commodore and Parise seemed to be joined at the hip at times during the series as big Mike made the going tough for Zach Parise. Mike Commodore also was glued to Brian Gionta as he seemed to be on the ice every time Gionta came off the Devils bench.

In the end the New Jersey Devils were manhandled by the faster skating Hurricanes. Goaltending was important in the series and Rookie Cam Ward continued his brilliance has he has won 7 of 9 games he has started.

Ice Chipping
This is For Gopher fans (more specifically my brother’s buddy Bert; but also add the other rodent fans who seem to have no sense of reality when it comes to seeing things outside of the maroon and gold goggles) that have been chirping about how great pretty boy Thomas Vanek is and how he is so much better than Zach Parise. Hey Vanek is so valuable that he was a healthy scratch for games two and three. I think we must look at the playoff numbers and compare the two players: Zach Parise never missed a game during the 2006 playoffs, Thomas Vanek was a healthy scratch 2 out of the 5 games that the Sabres played against the Sens. Zach had one goal and two assists in 9 games compared to Vanek’s 1 goal in 8 games. ach played on numberous lines and played on the power play. Vanek did not. I guess we can say that Parise > Vanek. I know this is a little pre-mature since Zach season is over and the Sabres have at least on more round against the Carolina Hurricanes.

Awesome perspective from a Sioux fan on UND chances next season.

I found this post on Sioux Sports and its awesome. It sums up the Fighting Sioux's chances for next season. There has been way too much negativity coming from message boards around the net. I think its time for Sioux fans to take a deep breath and have some faith in the coaching staff as well as the team that Sioux still have in place. This is priceless and very well written.
This is a quote from Siouxnami...

To steal from a complete idiot...

"All the negativity in this town sucks, Zach Parise, Travis Zajac, Drew Stafford, and Matt Smaby aren't going to walk through that door..."

Turnover
The Fighting Sioux are what they are, they are a team that every year fills their team with some of the best talent in college hockey. As a result, this talent matures and moves on to the next level. Because this talent has success at the next level, more talent comes. Players leaving early is a reality, live with it and quit whining. Would you really tell a 20 year old, "no risk financial security for the rest of your life for a trophy?" When one does come back, surprisingly, enjoy it, don't expect it.

I have been outspoken about people posting stuff that is speculation. Sure some has turned out to be true, but timelines and facts have been wrong, meaning your facts are flawed at best and outright lies at worst. Those of you posting BS, let it go...

Right after the season, I said that if everyone stayed, next seasons team could be one of the best ever. It didn't happen. Oh well, we will have to settle for another very good Sioux team.

Freshman
I've got news for you. Maybe the greatest freshman class ever (considering both quantity AND quality) will be back and improved. All those freshman D will be much better. Do you remember what happened to Travis Roach between his Freshman and Sophamore year? By the 2007 tournements this D should be awesome on both ends of the ice.

The forwards, WOW, lets not be delusional, we probably have Toews and Oshie for 1 more year. Enjoy it. These guys are awesome. Duncan will continure to improve. Kozek, Watkins, and Miller, have shown flashes of what they can do. Lets not forget that Miller was recovering from a severe injury this year. They would be the first line on alot of teams. I expect a coming out party for these guys next season.

Solid lines, D and goaltending

Our D should be much improved even with the loss of Smaby. Finley, will be playing what should be his freshman year and will be physical. Chorney, Lee, and Jones will improve on what can only be considered as outstanding Freshman seasons. Radke played the game of his life against BC, and I look for that to continue. One of my favorite players (obvious to anyone that has seen my sig for the last year+) Robbie Bina will be back with heart and fire. Alexander and Marto?? look to be worthy backups at worst.

We have 2 great goaltenders, as I have seen nothing to lead me to believe that Parise is leaving. Phill has played well in general, he just hasn't gotten the goal support.

Our forwards should be great, despite the losses. I don't know what the lines will be but in terms of personal:

Oshie-Toews-Duncan (name me a better line in college hockey)
Kozek-Kaip-Fabian (a talented hard-nosed physical line)
Watkins-Porter-Vandevelde
Forney-Miller-Zajac#2

Wow, look at that talent. At this point I am still guessing that Forney will come, given his immense talent. We would have an AWESOME first line, a ferocious and talented checking line. An all-NHL draft pick line featuring Porter (who I think will explode this year) And a very stron 4th line that can play with anyone. Not bad for a reloading year.

Oh yeah, and we have one hell of a good coaching staff as well...

NHLs in the Ralph
I don't think that we appreciate enough, how many times we see 6 guys with NHL talent on the ice at one time for the Sioux. Maybe this season, we can enjoy it, because it will happen alot. Guys with at minimum the potential to play in the NHL include:

Parise
Phil
Oshie
Toews
Kozek
Watkins
Porter
Finley
Lee
Chorney
Jones
Radke
Vandevelde
Forney

NOT TOO SHABBY!!!

Awesome recruits.

Hey folks, the pipeline is NOT running dry! We have 2 more high round NHL picks in the works with Forney and LaPoint, not to mention Trupp who will also likely be drafted. North Dakota has a history of not only bringing in first class players, but first class people as well. Have you ever heard of the team underperforming, because of issues in the locker room? Many great programs have had this issue.

I'm sure that we will continue to get great recruts for 2007 and beyond. All of these great players are potential recruits for UND for one reason or another:

Ben Blood-D Shattuck St.Mary's 6'1 180 3-15-89
Jeff Foss-D Moorhead 6'2 180 12-12-88 (another Moorhead kid)
Mario Lamoureux-LC Tri-City (USHL) 5'11 180 6-18-88
Colin Wilson-LC USNDPT U-18 Team 5'11 180 10-20-89 (I think Vegas said he is from Winipeg)
Jason Gregoire-LW Winnipeg So.Blues (MJHL) 5'11 175 2-24-89 (Vegas?)
David Toews-LC Colorado Outlaws 5'11 170 6-7-90
Kelsey Tessier-C Colorado Outlaws 5'8 150 1-16-90
Jordy Murray-RC Shattuck St.Mary's 5'8 155 1-8-90
Wade Poplawski-D Winnipeg (MJHL) 5'11 180 8-12-86 61-4-36-40-93 2003 Manitoba U17 Team
Ben Winnett-RW Salmon Arm (BCHL) 6' 175 4-3-89 60-18-31-49-31
Aaron Marvin-C/LW Warroad 6'3 180 5-27-88
Brad Malone

This will keep the wild ride going. Enjoy...

And finally

Every where the Sioux travel they can expect a lift from the fans. Pound for pound we travel better than anyone else in the nation. We are passionate about our team and will support them regardless of the circumstances. (No, I'm not talking about you losers that post crap and whine here or sit on your hands at the Ralph). But there is a huge legion of support for our team, and this legion will only continue to grow because we are the best tradition in college hockey bar none!

So this is why I am excite for the 2006/2007 season and beyond. Fighting Sioux fans, be loud and proud for your team.

Mass Exodus continues at North Dakota. Spirko Gone.

Mass Exodus continues at North Dakota. Spirko Gone.
Sparky Said:
Spirko, who hails from Slovakia, scored 11 goals and added 21 assists as a sophomore last season. According to teammates, Spirko generally kept to himself and had said that playing so far from home was sometimes difficult.

The Losses Keep Coming For the Fighting Sioux.
North Dakota lost its fourth underclassman of the offseason today when sophomore forward Rastislav Spirko decided to leave school and return to his native Slovakia.

Goon’s Perspective on this:
I am probably going to get flamed for this but here goes: Spirko not coming back next season is a loss, but his loss is not insurmountable, next season Sioux fans won’t even remember his name. The Fighting Sioux can play good hockey without Spirko and have a ton of talent to pick up the slack, players that want to be at UND.
Don’t get me wrong I think Sparky was a good player but in my opinion it takes a commitment from the player, and if that player doesn’t want to be here at UND, is unhappy or home sick then it’s a bad situation for all concerned. If Sparky doesn’t want to be here at North Dakota then Sparky should go home, or play in Europe or wherever. From my perspective it seems almost kind of whinny. The players coming in next season will pick up the slack for Spirko. I know what its like to be a young man 4,000 miles away from home, its tough. When I was 19 years old I was stationed in Stuttgart Germany while I served in the US Army, it’s a change that takes some time getting used to.

Goon’s World would like to wish Spirko good luck, however, I think your giving up a hell of an opportunity, the exposure you would gained from playing at UND could have landed you a big time contract in the AHL/NHL eventually, however, your home sickness or money problems caused you to decide to go back to Europe to play hockey, good luck to you. My question is: Why not bring your girl friend to the USA and have her live here with you?

Goon Said Earlier this Week
I don't think this team will miss a beat like one person said earlier have some faith in the players we have on the team. As Sioux fans we have only seen the tip of the ice burg with Oshie and Toews, beside I believe Toews will be a better player than Stafford ever was in the years to come. Take the Money and run Drew we will be fine without you, who can fault you. I think the boys coming in next fall are going to be pretty good too. Lets not lose faith its only May. Although we are all depressed we need to take a deep breath. May I suggest playing some golf. Check this place out. Dan in the club house will set you up with a tee time.
King's Walk

Finally, Don't let the trolls on the various fan message boards that claim to have credible information get you down. Players are going to leave. People talk in this town and there is enough Fighting Sioux Gossip to go around. There is no denieing it. They are nothing more than gossip hounds that have nothing better to do than troll and listen to lockerroom gossip. Sometimes they come trough, sometimes they get lucky and sometimes they are wrong.


The Links:
CHN Spirko Gone
INCH Article

GF Herald Blog

Drew Stafford is gone, Junior Forward signs with Sabres.

Yesterday the Fighting Sioux lost another talented player as Drew Stafford signed a pro contract with the Buffalo Sabres, I know my friend Lucky is happy about this, but I can't share is joy. If my week couldn't get any worse it went from crappy to the pits... Lets see what has happened in the last week: The weather sucks it has in the thirties at night the past week, the NCAA shot down UND's appeal, frankly, I wonder if they even read the damn appeal, then I have to swallow this. I think Daniel Powter's song bad day really sums up the past week:

You stand in the line just to hit a new low
You're faking a smile with the coffee to go
You tell me your life's been way off line
You're falling to pieces everytime
And I don't need no carryin' on
Cause you had a bad day

You're taking one down
You sing a sad song just to turn it around
You say you don't know
You tell me don't lie
You work at a smile and you go for a ride
You had a bad day
The camera don't lie
You're coming back down and you really don't mind
You had a bad day

Now people would say Goon this was pretty much expected that Drew would sign in the off-season and should be a shock to no one. So they say. Drew has gone from being a serious flight risk to gone from the team. I have seen it written on the various fan message boards that there is no way UND can make a run at the National tile will all the loses they have suffered in the off season. Who wants to bet? I think that defeatist thinking is not very realistic and its down right depressing... Although the loss of Stafford is not minor, the Fighting Sioux played without Drew through the WCHA playoffs and dismantled Wisconsin in the Final Five Championship game. I think we have seen a glimpse of the future without Drew.

Goon's World would like to thank Drew Stafford for all the good memories you have given us over the last three years, it has been fun watching you develop as a player and score some amazing goals. On one final note I am happy that I don't have to worry about you making your living as a singer.

UND players that have signed in the off season:
May 3 Buffalo: Signed F Drew Stafford* (North Dakota)
April 13 New Jersey: Signed F Travis Zajac* (North Dakota)
April 13 Tampa Bay: Signed D Matt Smaby* (North Dakota)

Inside College hockey link to Stafford signing

News Release from the Sabres Site