Two recent University of Minnesota men’s hockey standouts have been added to the Gophers’ coaching staff for the 2009-10 season.
Grant Potulny, who was named a volunteer assistant coach in May, has been elevated to a full-time position following a national search process. In addition, Justin Johnson has been named the team’s volunteer goaltending coach. Both were members of Minnesota’s national championship teams in 2002 and 2003 with Potulny serving as a team captain each year.
“I’m excited to bring both Grant and Justin back into the program,” Minnesota coach Don Lucia said. “They were both part of our two national championship teams and have a great understanding of what it takes to win at that level. They are proud alums and committed and excited to be back as a part of Gopher hockey.”
“It was just six years ago that I was in the same spots as these guys,” Potulny said of the current Gophers’ team. “Don and John (Hill) do an amazing job and I think I bring some youthful energy as somebody who can bring a different element to what we’re doing already.”
Potulny, 29, has served as the interim assistant coach for the past month since the resignation of Mike Hastings. He has been playing professionally since his career with the Gophers that spanned from 2000-04. He was an assistant captain as a sophomore for Minnesota’s 2002 national championship team and then captained the team the following two years, including the Gophers’ 2003 national title squad.
“Those were the best four years of my life,” Potulny said of his days with the Gophers. “I truly believe that every kid who comes to Minnesota should have a chance to play in the Frozen Four and I’d love to help make that happen.”
“As a three-year captain, Grant was a tremendous leader and was well respected by his teammates,” Lucia said. “As an interim assistant coach over the past month, I’ve had the opportunity to watch him interact with players and coaches at our model camp and select-16 festival and coach at the select-17 festival in New York. I have had numerous people come up to me and tell me how impressed they were with Grant. He will bring instant credibility based on what he did as a player and captain here and bring new insights after playing professionally the past five years.”
Potulny recently retired from pro hockey after battling injuries throughout his career. He was injured most of this past season, which he spent with the Tampa Bay Lightning’s American Hockey League affiliate in Norfolk (Va.). He competed three full seasons with the Ottawa Senators’ AHL affiliate in Binghamton (N.Y.) from 2004-07 before spending one season each with the Washington Capitals’ affiliate in Hershey (Pa.) and the Edmonton Oilers’ affiliate in Springfield (Mass.).
Potulny played in 146 games for the Gophers, totaling 68 goals and 48 assists for 116 points. He is best-known for scoring the overtime game-winning goal in Minnesota’s 4-3 win over Maine in the 2002 national championship game at the Xcel Energy Center.
Johnson, 28, was a volunteer assistant coach at St. Cloud State the past three seasons. Johnson was a four-year letterwinner for the Gophers from 2002-05, posting a 2.88 goals against average and 22-8-3 career record. He was named to the all-tournament team at the 2003 Western Collegiate Hockey Association Final Five after stopping 50 of 54 shots. Johnson was a three-time recipient of the team’s community service award.
“I felt it was extremely important that we have somebody who can work with the goaltenders and Justin has been working with goalies since he graduated,” Lucia said. “Also working with Mental Edge, he can bring added insights to players and coaches on the psychological aspects of the game. Justin has worked in the WCHA over the last three years and has an understanding of what it takes to compete as a player and coach at this level.”
“It’s almost like coming home for me,” Johnson said. “With the talent they have all around and in net it’s going to be an exciting season and I’m really looking forward to it.
“I’ve known Kent (Patterson) since he was a Pee Wee in camps and we have a great relationship,” he added. “Being at St. Cloud, we did a lot of film analysis on Alex (Kangas) and figuring out how to beat him. He’s an outstanding goalie and I’m very familiar with his game as well.”
In addition to his coaching duties, Johnson has instructed at former Gopher Robb Stauber’s Goalcrease and The Mental Edge, which mentors athletes of all ages and abilities by developing mental toughness skills. He has published an interactive and customized preparation manual for hockey goalies titled “GameDay.”
[Gopher Sports]
Goon's World Extras
- Goon's World
- UNO vs. UND Pictures
- UMD vs. UND Pictures
- WMU vs. UND pictures
- SCSU vs. UND Photos
- RMU versus UND Images
- Images from DU vs. UND
- Images from BU vs UND
- Photos from Augustana vs. UND
- UND Hockey Schedule 2024-25
- UND Hockey Roster for the 2024-25
- Images From UND Hockey Fest
- Pictures from UND Hockey Media Day 2024
- Examples of the Quality of NCHC.TV
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Grand Forks Native becomes Gophers assistant coach.
Former Grand Forks North Dakota Native and Grand Forks Red River High hockey player Grant Potulny is now the assistant coach for the Minnesota Golden Gophers. If you think about this; Grant was one of the first non-Minnesotans to play for the University of Minnesota since probably John Blue and then was a big reason the Gophers won the first of two back to back NCAA titles. So the University has come full circle.
Joe Finley on Trevor Bruess.
Former Fighting Sioux hockey players Joe Finley on Trevor Trevor Bruess. I am sure Sioux fans will find this interesting. Yeah I was rolling my eyes as well, but I digress. I suppose we won't see another replay of the Paukovich and Green incident. [Click here to listen to big Joe]
Listening to Big Joe talk nice about Trevor Bruess almost makes me ill, I know, I know, big Joe probably can't say Trevor Bruess was a hack when we played against MSU-M. Trevor tried to take out the knees of one of our best defensive players.
Listening to Big Joe talk nice about Trevor Bruess almost makes me ill, I know, I know, big Joe probably can't say Trevor Bruess was a hack when we played against MSU-M. Trevor tried to take out the knees of one of our best defensive players.
Peter Chiarelli quiet on Phil Kessel rumors.
The waiting game continues, I wonder if there is a way that Krejci can convince Kessel to sign a contract. It would be interesting to see what kind of a qualifying offer Kessel was offered?
“I don’t comment on rumors,” B’s general manager Peter Chiarelli said.
The right winger’s name has been floated in potential trades for a second straight offseason. The most notable this year was a draft night deal with Toronto that would have sent defenseman Tomas Kaberle to the Bruins.
The 21-year-old Kessel became a restricted free agent July 1. He has stayed in Boston this summer after undergoing shoulder surgery following the B’s Game 7 second-round playoff loss to Carolina.
Center David Krejci, who is rehabbing from May hip surgery, has spent almost every day with Kessel this offseason and hopes the sides can reach a contract agreement.
“Obviously I would love to have him on the team again next year,” Krejci said. “We are best friends on the team, and you don’t want to see guys like that walk away. I hope he’ll get a deal done. I don’t know what’s going to happen. That’s out of my reach. I’ll hope for the best and hope he stays here and everything is going to work out.”
Krejci said Kessel wants to return but hasn’t gotten too involved with the contract situation.
“We’re together every day, and this is the one thing we don’t really talk about that much,” Krejci said. “Obviously we talk, but there is some stuff that is private. He’s one of my best friends on the team, and some stuff he would like to just keep between us, especially about a contract.” [Boston Herald]
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Holy Cow! Check out this letter to the editor.
This was a letter to the editor in the Bemidji Pioneer. The only thing I can say is that you've got to be kidding me. The city of Bemidji held a city wide referendum, voted and approved the construction of the BREC, yet this guy thinks it taking to food of the tables of people that haven't even been born yet. Yeah! Also, how the hell does this guy know if the center is going to turn a profit or not? Apparently this economic theorist isn't aware of the financial impact the WCHA have on his community.
WCHA not biggest news
Arrogance, pompous, egotistical and self-serving were the first words that came to mind after reading Tom Serratore’s comments about BSU men’s hockey team being accepted into the WCHA. To say that “There’s not any news that has ever impacted this community and university like being inducted into this prestigious conference,” is lunacy. Throughout the history of this community and the university there have been numerous events that have made a huge impact on the lives of people living in this area and beyond. Perhaps the largest of these would be the actually founding of the university (Bemidji State Normal School.)
Followed by the school’s evolution from elementary teacher training to the multi-disciplined institute of higher learning that it is today. (If Cass Lake had gotten its way, there would be no college hockey in Bemidji.) Mr. Serratore seems to be suffering from extreme shortsightedness. He is correct in one statement. “There are people who aren’t born yet who will be impacted by the WCHA.” Since getting into the WCHA was contingent on BSU getting a new hockey rink, (event center) and by many accounts the new hockey rink/event center will never turn a profit, the yet unborn will be impacted by having to subsidize the center.
Matt Havumaki
Bemidji
WCHA Moves a Wash for College Hockey
This almost sounds like sour grapes by the CCHA. The WCHA stepped up to the plate and helped save BSU, now someone can step to the plate and take some leadership. This is what happens when your last to the party. The CCHA knew this was coming and sat by an let it happen.
It's almost seems like the CCHA is looking down their nose at UAH. The NCAA division one hockey CAN NOT allow any more teams to fall by the way side or division one hockey risks losing at large bids for the NCAA Hockey tourney, that is a lose, lose situation for everyone concerned. My question is; did you want to just sit by the way side and let two programs disband? No one else has come up with a suggestion or a solution. The fact remains that Danton Cole is a good coach with a solid hockey back ground that will do a good job getting UAH competitive in the CCHA. Seriously, he couldn't do any worse than some of the teams that were in the bottom half of that CCHA league standings last season. Plese tell me these teams aren't looking are looking down their noses at UAH. Now is not the time to be petty, it's the time for solutions and what is best for college hockey.
Update: To quote the article: But CCHA people have been understandably irked by the WCHA's insistence that this is "best for college hockey." I still stand by my comments, “No one else has come up with a suggestion or a solution.” Tell me who else has taken the leadership? While everyone involved might not be happy with UNO moving to the WCHA it solve a problem no one else wanted to tackle.
It's almost seems like the CCHA is looking down their nose at UAH. The NCAA division one hockey CAN NOT allow any more teams to fall by the way side or division one hockey risks losing at large bids for the NCAA Hockey tourney, that is a lose, lose situation for everyone concerned. My question is; did you want to just sit by the way side and let two programs disband? No one else has come up with a suggestion or a solution. The fact remains that Danton Cole is a good coach with a solid hockey back ground that will do a good job getting UAH competitive in the CCHA. Seriously, he couldn't do any worse than some of the teams that were in the bottom half of that CCHA league standings last season. Plese tell me these teams aren't looking are looking down their noses at UAH. Now is not the time to be petty, it's the time for solutions and what is best for college hockey.
The WCHA has talked a lot about doing what is best for college hockey. But while adding Bemidji State -- after BSU had run out of options to keep its program viable -- was certainly a gracious and strong move by the WCHA to benefit Bemidji State, its effect on college hockey as a whole is more neutral if it negatively impacts the CCHA.
McLeod tried to sell it, saying that UNO's move can be an overall benefit to college hockey as a whole, because the chain reaction effect could result in saving Alabama-Huntsville as well.
"I have a long relationshp with Tom, and we openly discussed this, including three weeks ago in San Antonio at meetings of the (NCAA) championships committee," McLeod said. "Tom is first class all the way. As an individual, I have nothing but good things to say.
"Having said that, we went into this process above board, to do it the right way best we could. Part of that was keeping Tom informed. I hope he would say we followed through on that. It's clear he didn't want to lose Omaha. It speaks to their caliber. And actually, he made some other suggestions to me -- why not think about these things.
"I've proven in the past with involvement getting the WCHA going -- I work for the WCHA -- but I need to step back and look at what's best for college hockey in general. Hopefully if it (WCHA expansion) worked out with Omaha or someone else, that would open a slot (for Alabama-Huntsville). That may not have be the same caliber or attractiveness (as UNO), but that we could save another program. ... I hope that happens."
Still, there is no question that the CCHA takes a hit -- at least in the short term -- from this switch. No offense to Albama-Huntsville, but its program, and the commitment to the program, do not currently approach what Nebraska-Omaha is. [college hockey news]
Update: To quote the article: But CCHA people have been understandably irked by the WCHA's insistence that this is "best for college hockey." I still stand by my comments, “No one else has come up with a suggestion or a solution.” Tell me who else has taken the leadership? While everyone involved might not be happy with UNO moving to the WCHA it solve a problem no one else wanted to tackle.
New UNO Hockey Coach Selects Successor
[props] I had read where some Gopher fans were questioning why Mike Hastings would want to leave the University of Minnesota to go coach at the University of Nebraska Omaha. I this is probably the reason why. There are only 58 teams in Division one hockey and Hastings might have seen this as his best shot to be a head coach at the Division one level. When Blais left UND he strongly suggested Dave Hakstol be picked head coach, the rest is history. It is nice to see Blais back coaching in College hockey again.
OMAHA, Neb. -- The new University of Nebraska-Omaha hockey coach, on the job less than a week, has already picked his successor, thus ensuring the long-term future of the program's leadership.
Coach Dean Blais hired former Lancers coach Mike Hastings to be his associate head coach. Blais himself was just hired last month to succeed the program's first coach, Mike Kemp.
Blais said Hastings will be a good "go-between" for Blais and the players.
"He knows the guys better than I do," Blais said, acknowledging that he did not know if that was a good or bad thing. He does know that his successor will come from his staff.
"When I'm gone, he'll take over and we won't miss a beat," Blais said.
That is when the time comes, though. Blais is so new to the city that he said he still learning his way around.
"Only been lost a couple of times," Blais said.
His potential successor is not thinking about anything but the present.
"It's a thought that's down the road, but … we need to work on making sure we're as good as we can be when we play that first exhibition game in the season," Hastings said.
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
More on the Heatley saga.
You have to wonder how this is going to play out, once the Gennie is out of the bottle you have to think it would be very hard to put it back in. Even Heatley's line mate can't get a hold of him. As good of a player as Heatly is I can't say that I would like to see him in a Wild uniform.
OTTAWA — Reporters and others unable to reach Dany Heatley shouldn't feel bad.
The captain of the Ottawa Senators is in the same boat, failing to connect with a player who has been his linemate for the better part of four NHL seasons.
On Tuesday, for the first time since Heatley's controversial trade demand, Senators captain Daniel Alfredsson spoke to a handful of Ottawa media via conference call. Alfredsson was speaking from Paris, where he is attending NHL Players' Association meetings.
Alfredsson admitted he hasn't even spoken to Heatley during this firestorm, though he has "tried to reach him a few times." As the team leader, Alfredsson wants to talk with Heatley to see if there is something that can be worked out between the high-scoring winger and the hockey club, some issue beyond the publicized concern with head coach Cory Clouston.
Joe Finley talks while attending Capitals camp.
[props] Here is the NHL video of Joe Finley at the NHL Washington Capitals development camp yesterday. I think Joe Finley is a well spoken young man and a good interview, it was interesting to hear his take on the slashing of Bucky the Badger. Just for the record during the 2004-2005 USHL season Joe Finley got into eleven fights [hockey fights].
Jumbo Joe Colborne.
Hawks Fire GM.
This is the latest fire storm in the NHL. I logged onto my Twitter account when I got home from work and this is what I saw from numerous tweets.
Blackhawks fire GM Tallon ---- TFP has confirmed that the Chicago Blackhawks fired general manager Dale Tallon late Monday and an official announcement will be made on Tuesday.
TFP Columnist and Comcast Chicago anchor Josh Mora has also confirmed that Stan Bowman, the club's assistant GM, will be taking over as GM.
Tallon was named the eighth GM in team history on June 21, 2005. Prior to becoming GM, he served as assistant GM, and was the club's director of player personnel from 1998-2002.
Tallon's job had reportedly been on the fence since the Hawks season had ended.
Sources close to the situation tell TFP "the embarrassment over the negative publicity of the contract situation (regarding the club's restricted free agents) was the clinching blow."
The Blackhawks were believed to be late in notifying the agents of their main RFAs that they had received qualifying offers. As a result, the Hawks had signed those players, including Cam Barker and Kris Versteeg, to new contracts.
[The Fourth Period] confirmed by the [Daily Herald]
Monday, July 13, 2009
Galen Nagle Golf Tournament
I found this over on Brian Schultz's blog. I will be playing in this tourney again this Friday @1200. I played in this tourney two years ago and it was a lot of fun. The Bemidji Town and Country Club is a very nice course, although after playing Kings Walk there are also too many trees. Back in the early 1990's I had the pleasure of meeting Galen Nagel when I worked at Castle Highland golf course in Bemidji. Galen was one of the nicest people you could ever meet.
Galen Nagle Golf Tournament
This Friday, the BSU men's hockey team will hold their annual golf tournament fundraiser. The event is named in honor of Galen Nagle...a former Beaver goalie. Shotgun start at noon at the Bemidji Country Club...with dinner and auction to follow.
Bemidji State University and the Galen Nagle Memorial Fund Committee have established a memorial scholarship fund in honor of the former Beaver hockey standout, designed to support the Bemidji State hockey program.
Galen W. Nagle was a goaltender for the Beaver hockey team from 1980-’84, and served as a coach and teacher in the state of Minnesota for several years before losing his life to cancer Oct. 18, 1996 at the age of 34. “Galen exemplified Beaver hockey,” said former Bemidji State coach 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 and the 1984 Beaver hockey team made college hockey history with a perfect 31-0-0 season en route to the school’s first NCAA Division II National Championship. An All-Tournament selection from the 1984 Division II Championship, Nagle completed his Bemidji State hockey goaltending career with an 8-1 victory in the title game.
Initially a walk-on at Bemidji State, Nagle’s determination and willingness to give forged a special bond with teammates and coaches. He never lost a game in goal for Bemidji State, posting a 22-0-0 career record with three shutouts. He allowed just 37 goals in his career, leaving Bemidji State as the program’s all-time leader in save percentage (.9308) and goals-against average (2.039) - career records which still stand today for players with at least 1,000 minutes in goal. “Galen considered it a privilege and an honor to be a part of the team, and conversely, we valued his contribution to the team,” Peters said. “He has had a lasting impact on the lives of the people he touched, and we will always remember him.”
A 1984 graduate of Bemidji State, Nagle taught industrial arts at Scotts- Highland Middle School in Apple Valley for several years and coached in hockey programs at Rosemount, Holy Angels Academy, Richfield, Bloomington, Wayzata and Thief River Falls. He also served as the chief goalie instructor for Coach Peters’ Bemidji International Hockey Camp at BSU.
Nagle was born to Richard and Marlys June 18, 1962 in Baudette, Minn. He and his family moved to Bemidji in 1979, and he graduated from Bemidji High School in 1980. The annual golf tournament was inaugurated in his honor Aug. 7, 1998.
Hope to see you there!
More on Lemaire to New Jersey.
This is going to be an interesting story as it plays out. In fact it will be more exciting that the Devils on ice play, next season. It’s almost like Lemaire is trying to remake himself, see I can coach an offensive team. As a Wild fan, we all know that Jacques Lemaire can coach a NHL team to play stifling air tight defense (some call it boring, I might say that as well).
Breaking it down further; under Lemaire the Wild and Devils played "a lot of defense" and during the same time these Jacques Lemaire coach teams lacked offensive imagination. Some might say that under Lemaire the Devils and Wild games were nothing more than a trap feast that weren’t very exciting to watch, I have heard this claim from many fans. Personally, I also struggled through a majority of the 82 Wild games last season myself. If you think I am over playing this argument, see the proof backing up my argument, I challenge you to go watch a few of last season games if you can find the video. These games will cure insomnia and you won’t need Nyquil.
Lastly, In my 20+ years of watching the NHL the 1995 Stanley Cup finals in my opinion were the most boring NHL hockey that I have ever watched. I honestly don’t want to witness it again. That Devils team that was coach by Lemaire.
Breaking it down further; under Lemaire the Wild and Devils played "a lot of defense" and during the same time these Jacques Lemaire coach teams lacked offensive imagination. Some might say that under Lemaire the Devils and Wild games were nothing more than a trap feast that weren’t very exciting to watch, I have heard this claim from many fans. Personally, I also struggled through a majority of the 82 Wild games last season myself. If you think I am over playing this argument, see the proof backing up my argument, I challenge you to go watch a few of last season games if you can find the video. These games will cure insomnia and you won’t need Nyquil.
Lastly, In my 20+ years of watching the NHL the 1995 Stanley Cup finals in my opinion were the most boring NHL hockey that I have ever watched. I honestly don’t want to witness it again. That Devils team that was coach by Lemaire.
Now that he has the gig, what can be expected of Lemaire behind the Devils bench?
First of all, he wants to coach beyond one season. He made that clear today, and barring a Lamoriellian hasty coaching decision, one imagines Lemaire will be given that opportunity.
He also steadfastly rejected the notion that his arrival portends a statistic decline for Devils star Zach Parise(notes), who is one of the best offensive standouts the organization has ever produced.
"I don't know what I'm going to put in [as a coach] that would stop any of the players from performing at their best," said Lemaire.
For those wondering how that philosophy jibes with Lemaire's system stifling a player like Marian Gaborik(notes) with the Wild, know this: He believes Parise and other Devils on this team to be outstanding two-way players. So overstressing defense, smothering an offensive game for the sake of the system ... it's not something Lemaire sees happening with Parise.
(A former Devils player told me the same thing at the Draft, claiming that Parise's numbers could actually improve with Lemaire behind the pine.)
One area where Lemaire could help the team is on the blue line, where assistant coach Mario Tremblay joins the Devils as the man in charge of the defense on the bench. They got the most out of Wild defenseman who might be considered journeymen on other teams; the Devils defense isn't the star-studded collection Lemaire had during his first stint, but it's a solid enough group that could be even better than what Sutter squeezed out of them.
Lemaire is back in New Jersey because he still has the itch and wants to win another ring:
"You want to have a chance to win the Cup. In my situation, this would be a great thing, to have a chance."
One gets the same vibe from Lamoriello in bringing back Lemaire, bringing back Brian Rolston(notes), bringing back Brendan Shanahan(notes) and the others. Time's running short for all of these veterans who have dedicated themselves to The Game and to the franchise. When Marty Brodeur is 37 and the next name on the potential starting goalie chart is Jeff Frazee(notes), there's a win-now vibe in place.
[Puck Daddy]
Lemaire to coach Devils
Former Wild coach Jacques Lemaire will be back coaching the New Jersey Devils. Also interesting blog post by Russo, notice he brings up a really good question on whether Parise’s growth and under more restricted system, will he be hindered? You have to wonder if he will score 94 points in the Lemaire system. How would Zajac and Parise feel about playing in a system restrictive system.
Onto Lemaire:
“I never did close the door on coaching. I said my time in Minnesota is over.”
“I had a great time in New Jersey in the 90s. I had some great memories and I hope to get some more.”
Not easy writing all this on blackberry. My laptop’s in the shop. Also, I don’t speak French.
“I never thought I’d be back. The five years I thought I’d cherish the rest of my life. But the situation right now is perfect for me.”
On Parise’s growth and under more restricted system, will he be hindered? “I don’t know what would be put in that’ll stop any player to perform at their best. He’s a kid that works offensively and defensively. … I’m not the coach that will stop any guys to perform and do what they’re good at.”
On Rolston: “He’s a guy that has to be put in the right situation. I’m not saying Brent didn’t do this, but he’s a guy we have to demand a little more. That’s my intention. That’s what we did in Minny and we’ll try to repeat that.”
Lou approached him before the draft.
“It would be a great thing to have a chance to win the Cup. I want to be part of this. If there’s a chance, I’d love to get another one.”
On Tremblay: “He’ll be in charge of the defense. I’ve been nine years with him and I think he’s a great complement of myself. He’s fun for the players. He knows how to deal with them in practices.” [russo's rants]
Lemaire to coach Zajac and Parise?
In a way I almost feel sorry for the New Jersey Devils. While Lemaire will be a hall of fame coach some day his style of play is BORING.
Devils to name a head coach today. The Devils have scheduled a 1:30 p.m. conference all today to make "a major announcement."
It is expected that they name a head coach at that time.
All signs point to Jacques Lemaire [Fire and Ice]
VIEWPOINT: Spirit Lake in support of Standing Rock
Here is an interesting letter to the editor that was in this weekend’s Grand Forks Herald. The writers bring up some very valid points that have been over looked by the pro-change crowd. These writers are right a very small group of people referred to by the letter writers, 'as very small but vocal group of malcontents' have put UND on the verge of changing the University of North Dakota’s historic nick name.
SPIRIT LAKE NATION -- On April 21, 2009, the people of the Spirit Lake Sioux Tribe exercised our Democratic rights and privileges as free Americans and participated in a vote to determine the fate of the UND Fighting Sioux nickname. The vote was a landslide in support of keeping the name and logo in place as it has been for more than 80 years, and yet the controversy and opposition we continue to encounter remains surprisingly desperate from a very small but vocal group of malcontents.
In the time since the vote, the leaders of the movement to put the issue on the ballot have reflected on just what has happened and what it means to them. In retrospect, the battle that is now behind the Spirit Lake people has charged the residents with pride, respect and a feeling of self determination that is still strong. The vote has given us all a taste of freedom and a renewed appreciation for democracy. It has also given our people a feeling of unity as we stood together and accomplished our goal.
The matter of the name is far from resolved as a result of this vote, but the success of the Spirit Lake people to speak their own mind and determine their own fate has spurred kindred Sioux people in the state to pursue a similar course of action on the Standing Rock Reservation.
The Spirit Lake Committee for Understanding and Respect was determined from the start to keep the focus on the issue and conduct our campaign in a manner that would leave no room for criticism or condemnation. It has been difficult, especially when members were accused of things like taking money from “The Ralph," or fraudulently obtaining signatures for petitions. This treatment was not limited to the committee members only, but the Engelstad Family Foundation and even Ralph Engelstad himself was dragged through the muck. The internet news forums prior to the vote abounded with emotionally charged missives from both sides of the issue which often overlooked the point of the issue completely. While we appreciate support from any who offer it, we have and will continue to conduct ourselves and our activities in a manner of understanding and respect, just like our committee name says, and encourage our supporters to do likewise.
In reference to the 1969 naming ceremony conducted on the campus of the University of North Dakota when Standing Rock tribal leaders officially blessed the University’s use of the Sioux name, there can be no retractions or dismissals. This ceremony was conducted as a pipe ceremony and a pipe ceremony can never be undone or taken back. Spiritual leaders are the only ones who should talk about these matters and they will not discuss this in public and very seldom in private, because the pipe (c’anunpa) is far too sacred for public discussion. For example, when our chiefs signed a treaty and gave their word with the pipe, individual chiefs could later have a change of heart but the treaty still stands.
Why is it so easy for the ND State Board of Higher Education to change their agreement to allow the ND Sioux Tribes until November, 2010 to approve or disapprove the UND nickname? Is it because treaties are made to be broken?
We want to be remembered by our grandchildren and great grandchildren as Dakota Sioux who fought for the right to be proud of our name in spite of the vicious onslaught by people who let their prejudice overwhelm their sense of pride and dignity. We encourage all of our youth to strive for an education so that they can help their people and become true representatives of the “Fighting Sioux."
The ND State Board of Higher Education will make the ultimate decision regarding the continued use of the “Fighting Sioux“ nickname and logo. The settlement agreement between the State and the NCAA says that the two ND Sioux Tribes must give their approval in order for the University to retain the name and logo. This decision can only be made by the people of Standing Rock and Spirit Lake Sioux tribes and no one else. The news media has given far too much attention to the outcries of a small group of disgruntled faculty and Native students at UND who are neither Sioux nor from the Spirit Lake or Standing Rock reservations.
We would like to take this opportunity to convey our thoughts and feelings to our brothers and sisters of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe. We support the right of the people at Standing Rock to be heard and we support their efforts to have a say in the Fighting Sioux name and logo debate.
The Spirit Lake Nation Tribal Council respected the wishes of their people and understood that this issue was far too big and far too personal for just a small group of people to decide. This issue is not a political pawn. This issue is a very personal and individual matter that requires the input of each member of the tribe.
The vote at Spirit Lake gave our people an opportunity to tell the world how the Fighting Sioux name and logo makes each individual tribal member feel. The people of the Spirit Lake Sioux tribe clearly told the world they feel good about the Fighting Sioux name and logo.
No matter what side of the issue they were on, almost unanimously, the people of Spirit Lake Sioux tribe are grateful for the opportunity to voice their opinion and respect the outcome of the people’s vote. We ask for our many relatives at Standing Rock to be given the same opportunity. Let’s put this issue to rest once and for all and get on with the task of tackling the real issues that impact us in Indian country.
Our people are a people of consensus and the only way for this matter to be resolved is to give the people a chance to voice their individual opinions on this very personal matter. We are willing to live with the results of such a vote, whatever the result may be.
This letter was also signed by Spirit Lake Committee for Understand and Respect members Demus McDonald, Frank Black Cloud, Oliver Gourd, Eunice Davidson, Alex Yankton and Renita DeLorme.
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Gopher fans are you worried?
From everything I have read this week; I think if Jordan Schroeder was offered the entry level max, I think there is a good chance Schroeder might sign it. Seriously, I mean read the things Schroeder is saying. Schroeder isn't ruling out signing, he isn't ruling out returning either. Interesting statements from him, if I was a Gopher's fan I would be a little nervous about Schroeder until he is in the line opening night.
Schroeder's father John is paying the shot for him to attend the Canucks camp to protect his NCAA eligibility. Schroeder, 19 on Sept. 29, is determined to get his (dad's) money's worth.
"I wanted to come here and show the organization that I'm very interested [in them] and to pay my dues even though it cost our family," he said. "Paying our way up here was worth it. Seeing the city and getting to know all the prospects was definitely worth it."
Schroeder will almost certainly return to the Golden Gophers for another season and, if so, he won't be attending full rookie and main camp in September. After that, who knows? The Canucks could come calling with a contract offer at any time.
[ The Vancouver Sun]
Gaborik setting his goals high.
I think most Wild fans are probably rolling their eyes when they hear Gaborik talk about how he is going to score a bunch of goals during this up coming season. Then all you have to do is look at his list of injuries and if Cornelius Hardenbergh's math is right Gabby has missed 154 games during his NHL Hockey career.
"I'm not worried about that, though. I don't think it will be a problem."
Gaborik scored 13 goals in 17 games for the Wild while missing most of last season with a labrum injury that was surgically repaired on Jan. 5 by Dr. Marc Philippon. Entering what should be his prime years, the 27-year-old winger has scored 123 goals in 207 games over the last four years. That equates to an 82-game pace of 49 goals.
"I'm very confident that the problems with my health are in the past and that if I'm healthy, I can produce the way I expect to," said Gaborik, who traveled here from his home in Trencin, Slovakia, to search for an apartment in Manhattan.
"This is going to be a big change for me after only playing in Minnesota for [eight] years, but I'm very excited about the challenge. I'm going to try to do what I do best, which is to try to make a difference on the ice every time I'm out there.
"I try to be the best player every game." [New York Post]
Dalton could be a keeper...
Here is a nice story on former BSU Goalie Matt Dalton. It will be interesting to see where he ends up playing this season.
WILMINGTON - Most of the interest that NCAA teams showed in Matt Dalton disappeared when the goalie’s self-admitted “academic issues’’ came to light.
“Being from Canada, my high school classes weren’t going to work,’’ said the Clinton, Ontario, native. “I didn’t find that out until my second-to-last year of juniors. So I had to do a full year of university while I was in juniors just to get eligible for NCAAs. That scared a lot of schools off. I was talking to a lot of schools at the time. Once all the academic issues came out, it was like they all quit talking.’’
As Dalton prepares for his first year as a pro goalie, it appears he’s getting the last laugh on the spooked schools.
Dalton has been one of three goalies at Ristuccia Arena this week for development camp (Adam Courchaine and Michael Hutchinson are the others). The 23-year-old is in the Boston fold for the next two seasons, aiming to become the latest unorthodox netminder to make it in Black-and-Gold. Like Tim Thomas, Dalton isn’t committed to following the butterfly style that has become the norm.
“A modified butterfly goalie, maybe?’’ Dalton said. “I don’t think I’m a true butterfly goalie like a lot of the French-Canadian goalies. But I do butterfly quite a bit.’’
The 6-foot-1-inch, 194-pound Dalton considers himself more of a track-and-react goalie. This week, Dalton has put his style to the test against the prospects’ shots. Dalton holds his glove up and out (Courchaine and Hutchinson keep their catchers closer to their bodies) and tries to make himself as big as possible.
“I think I play my best when I’m tracking the puck well and reacting,’’ Dalton said. “More reacting than dropping down into a butterfly. It’s different with every person. It’s something that I found works well for me.’’
It's no mystery where Kevin Paul Dupont stands.
It never ceases to amaze me how Boston Globe Sports Writer KPD is always out there waving the trade Kessel flag. This article comes right after the Bruins general manager Peter Chiarelli says that 'Phil Kessel will be back.' I believe this also the rumors he is talking about from that interview on NESN.
No progress in GM Peter Chiarelli’s attempts to strike a new deal with 36-goal scorer Phil Kessel. If an offer sheet is coming from another club, it’s not likely to be made until close to the season opener in October, at which time the Bruins, with little or no cap room left by then, would be forced to let him go or frantically dump salary. Unlike the summer, when clubs are allowed to go 10 percent over the $56.8 million salary cap, there is no overage allowed once the season starts. It’s far more likely that Kessel will be signed in the next few weeks or traded well before the start of October. Restricted free agents who fail to sign by Dec. 1 are forced to sit out the remainder of the season . . . The Ducks and Bruins once might have discussed a Kessel-for-Bobby Ryan swap. Ryan, the No. 2 pick in the ’05 draft, was a finalist last season for Rookie of the Year . . .
[Boston Globe]
Kessel’s faults may scare off bidders
Here is another interesting article on why Kessel remains unsigned by any team. This approach does seem to make sense. There hasn't been any offers from other clubs and the Bruins can just sit and wait and if there is an offer they match it. I wonder how long this game of cat and mouse is going to go on?
While Phil Kessel continues to swing gently in the barely stirring breezes of restricted free agency, the Bruins go calmly about the rest of their business these days, unconcerned that their leading goal-scorer of last season could be tempted by some outrageous offer sheet at any moment.
That may be disconcerting to some in Bruins Nation, but there’s a very good reason general manager Peter Chiarelli has been so willing to let Kessel dangle out there like some oversized carrot on a string for the last week and a half: Because he knows it’s unlikely “Phil the Thrill” will get an offer the B’s can’t match.
Though Kessel scored a team-high 36 goals in just 70 games last season, there seem to be enough questions about the 21-year-old forward’s leaky defense, his lack of a physical game, and his allegedly weak role in the team dynamic, as well as the NHL’s shaky economic and salary-cap climate, to dissuade any team from bidding more than $5 million a year or so for the former University of Minnesota star.
And while Chiarelli might feel Kessel is worth more along the lines of a David Krejci ($3.75 million a year) than, say, a Brian Gionta ($5 million a year from Montreal), the Boston GM wouldn’t hesitate to match either offer. If you’re thinking match-and-trade, forget it — the NHL prohibits trading a player for one year after matching an offer to him — but that doesn’t mean Chiarelli couldn’t unload someone else to make space available.
There’s also the compensation issue for Kessel’s suitors to consider. If they offer him more than $6 million a year (actually, over $6,026,867) and the Bruins don’t match, Boston would get two first-round draft picks, a second-rounder and a third-rounder. If the offer is more than $7.5 million, the compensation would be four first-round picks.
Rest assured there’s not a GM alive who thinks Kessel is worth that much in salary and damages.
On the other hand, the one thing the Bruins lack is a go-to offensive guy, someone they can count on to put the puck in the net in the clutch, a take-over-the-game player. And Kessel could be that guy.
The B’s were right to give up on Joe Thornton because of his frequent malaise and his playoff paralysis, but Kessel has shown signs of being someone they can lean on in the postseason. Besides his 66 goals in three seasons, Kessel has 15 points (including nine goals) in 15 playoff games, with a plus-8 rating.
That’s something he and the Bruins can, and should, build on.
[Telegram.com]
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Pontifications on the Bruins that make sense.
Now I am seeing something that makes sense in regards to Phil Kessel and him not signing a contract as of yet, however, I personally would rather see Marco Sturm go and the Bruins keep Chuck Kobasew.
The big Bruins news of the week, however, has to with general manager Peter Chiarelli’s comments on NESN last night. When prompted to speak about current Restricted Free Agent and Bruins’ best goal scorer Phil Kessel’s contract status, Chiarelli stated that Kessel will be back with the Bruins.
Obviously, with the amount of trade rumors circling around Kessel, it is rather surprising that suddenly Chiarelli has come out and said Kessel will be back. Chiarelli even went so far as to say it’s a shame that the rumors get out and that Kessel is a good player and person. Perhaps he is trying to mend some wounds before Kessel’s official return?
That said, until a contract is signed, we can’t be certain of Kessel’s status. Should Kessel return for any price between $3.5 million and $4.5 million, it looks as if one player will have to be traded. With Kessel’s return, the Bruins would have 10 forwards of top-9 skill level. One can safely assume that Marc Savard, Milan Lucic, David Krecji, Mark Recchi, Blake Wheeler, Patrice Bergeron and Michael Ryder will return.
That leaves one of Marco Sturm and Chuck Kobasew left.
Trading either of these forwards will clear up the necessary space. Although trading Sturm and his 3.5 million dollar contract would make more sense than trading Kobasew’s cap-friendly contract, Sturm has a no trade clause. Chiarelli could ask Sturm to waive it, but, as of now, barring a major trade, it would seem Kobasew is on his way out. [Insidehockey.com]
Chiarelli: Phil Kessel will be back
This news should make Bruins fans more at ease. I have been on record in the past as saying Phil Kessel is a core member of the Boston Bruins and unless the Bruins management can get someone to score 35-50 goals from somewhere else they are going to need to resign him. I don't want to hear that Marco Sturm or Patrice Bergeron will pick up the slack because they won't, they are not as dynamic and as pure as a goal scorer as Phil Kessel.
3rd Annual Oshie Sports Celebrity Golf Tournament
<<<<<<< Announcement >>>>>>>>>
On Wednesday, July 29th and Thursday, July 30th, 2009, we will be holding the 3rd Annual Oshie Sports Celebrity Benefit and Golf Tournament.
The event will feature a "Celebrity Shoot-Out" on the afternoon of July 29th which will allow the business leaders to purchase a 4-some at $200.00 plus the cost of golf / carts for the group. Later that night, "A Meet The Celebrities" autograph session will take place from 6:30 - 8 p.m. at the Rydell GM Auto Center Cadillac Showroom in Grand Forks, ND.
The 3nd Annual Oshie Sports Celebrity Golf Tournament will be held on Thursday, July 30th, at the magnificent links-style King's Walk Golf Course. This Arnold Palmer designed golf course is one of the best courses in North Dakota.
The cost per foursome will remain $500.00 and your team will receive:
- One team of 4 golfers (plus celebrity) for golf / cart at King's Walk Golf Course on Thursday, July 30th, 2009.
- Complimentary gift for each golfer
- Company or players names recognized in program
- Complimentary hamburger upon registration
- Complimentary dinner / appetizers at completion of tournament
- Team prize packages
- Live Auction @ Post Awards Ceremony
Here is a credentials snip-its of all the 2009 - 3rd Annual Oshie Celebrity Golf Tournament Invitees:
T.J. Oshie (St. Louis Blues / UND) HOST
Zach Parise (New Jersey Devils / UND)
Jonathan Toews (Chicago Blackhawks / UND)
Dean Blais (Head Coach University of Nebraska - Omaha)
Taylor Chorney (Edmonton Oilers / UND)
Marc Chorney (NHL / UND)
Kyle Okposo (New York Islanders / UM)
Blake Wheeler (Boston Bruins / UM)
David Backes (St. Louis Blues / UM Mankato)
Patrik Berglund (St. Louis Blues)
Matt Niskanen (Dallas Stars / UM-Duluth)
Jordan Parise (UND / Lowell Devils AHL)
Chris Porter (St. Louis Blues / UND)
Matt Jones (Phoenix Coyotes / UND)
Colby Genoway (Manitoba Moose / UND)
Karl Goehring (Manitoba Moose / UND)
Dave Christian ('80 Olympic USA Miracle Team / NHL / UND)
Dave Hakstol (UND Fighting Sioux Head Coach)
Cary Eades (UND Fighting Sioux Associate Head Coach)
Dane Jackson (UND Fighting Sioux Assitant Coach)
Kyle Radke (Idaho Steelheads / UND)
Phil Lamoureux (Alaska Aces / UND)
Nick Fuher (UND)
Mike "Lefty" Curran ('72 Olympic USA Team / MN North Stars / UND)
Ginny Christian ('56 Olympic USA Team / UND)
Billy Christian ('60 Olympic Gold Medal Team USA)
Andrew Kozek (UND Fighting Sioux / Atlanta Thrashers Draft Choice)
Landon Wilson (Dallas Stars / UND)
Brad Miller (UND / Austin ECHL)
Matt Smaby (Tampa Bay Lightning / UND)
David Hale (Phoenix Coyotes / UND)
Dustin Byfulien (Chicago Blackhawks)
Zach Jones (UND Fighting Sioux)
There will be only ONE flight of 36 teams in the tournament. We anticipate a 12:30 p.m. shotgun start for the golf scramble. Due to the very high demand for teams, we will fill the 36 slots on a first-come, first-served basis. We must receive payment in full to reserve your team. Please fill out the enclosed form and mail it with your check to the credentials below.
If you have any questions regarding this event, please contact Timothy Oshie at (360) 722-1784 or simply e-mail to oshiesports@gmail.com.
Kindest Regards,
Timothy W. Oshie
***Oshie Sports Celebrity Golf Tournament Invitees's and subject to change at any time.
On Wednesday, July 29th and Thursday, July 30th, 2009, we will be holding the 3rd Annual Oshie Sports Celebrity Benefit and Golf Tournament.
The event will feature a "Celebrity Shoot-Out" on the afternoon of July 29th which will allow the business leaders to purchase a 4-some at $200.00 plus the cost of golf / carts for the group. Later that night, "A Meet The Celebrities" autograph session will take place from 6:30 - 8 p.m. at the Rydell GM Auto Center Cadillac Showroom in Grand Forks, ND.
The 3nd Annual Oshie Sports Celebrity Golf Tournament will be held on Thursday, July 30th, at the magnificent links-style King's Walk Golf Course. This Arnold Palmer designed golf course is one of the best courses in North Dakota.
The cost per foursome will remain $500.00 and your team will receive:
- One team of 4 golfers (plus celebrity) for golf / cart at King's Walk Golf Course on Thursday, July 30th, 2009.
- Complimentary gift for each golfer
- Company or players names recognized in program
- Complimentary hamburger upon registration
- Complimentary dinner / appetizers at completion of tournament
- Team prize packages
- Live Auction @ Post Awards Ceremony
Here is a credentials snip-its of all the 2009 - 3rd Annual Oshie Celebrity Golf Tournament Invitees:
T.J. Oshie (St. Louis Blues / UND) HOST
Zach Parise (New Jersey Devils / UND)
Jonathan Toews (Chicago Blackhawks / UND)
Dean Blais (Head Coach University of Nebraska - Omaha)
Taylor Chorney (Edmonton Oilers / UND)
Marc Chorney (NHL / UND)
Kyle Okposo (New York Islanders / UM)
Blake Wheeler (Boston Bruins / UM)
David Backes (St. Louis Blues / UM Mankato)
Patrik Berglund (St. Louis Blues)
Matt Niskanen (Dallas Stars / UM-Duluth)
Jordan Parise (UND / Lowell Devils AHL)
Chris Porter (St. Louis Blues / UND)
Matt Jones (Phoenix Coyotes / UND)
Colby Genoway (Manitoba Moose / UND)
Karl Goehring (Manitoba Moose / UND)
Dave Christian ('80 Olympic USA Miracle Team / NHL / UND)
Dave Hakstol (UND Fighting Sioux Head Coach)
Cary Eades (UND Fighting Sioux Associate Head Coach)
Dane Jackson (UND Fighting Sioux Assitant Coach)
Kyle Radke (Idaho Steelheads / UND)
Phil Lamoureux (Alaska Aces / UND)
Nick Fuher (UND)
Mike "Lefty" Curran ('72 Olympic USA Team / MN North Stars / UND)
Ginny Christian ('56 Olympic USA Team / UND)
Billy Christian ('60 Olympic Gold Medal Team USA)
Andrew Kozek (UND Fighting Sioux / Atlanta Thrashers Draft Choice)
Landon Wilson (Dallas Stars / UND)
Brad Miller (UND / Austin ECHL)
Matt Smaby (Tampa Bay Lightning / UND)
David Hale (Phoenix Coyotes / UND)
Dustin Byfulien (Chicago Blackhawks)
Zach Jones (UND Fighting Sioux)
There will be only ONE flight of 36 teams in the tournament. We anticipate a 12:30 p.m. shotgun start for the golf scramble. Due to the very high demand for teams, we will fill the 36 slots on a first-come, first-served basis. We must receive payment in full to reserve your team. Please fill out the enclosed form and mail it with your check to the credentials below.
If you have any questions regarding this event, please contact Timothy Oshie at (360) 722-1784 or simply e-mail to oshiesports@gmail.com.
Kindest Regards,
Timothy W. Oshie
***Oshie Sports Celebrity Golf Tournament Invitees's and subject to change at any time.
Friday, July 10, 2009
Im not the only one that thinks Skoula is a Pylon.
While reading the blog HockeyWilderness I came across this most accurate description of Martin Skoula and Marc-Andre Bergeron. The two Players (Pylons) are defensive zone nightmares, and I would hate to think how many times Skoula coughed the puck up in the defensive zone that led to a game tying or game winning goal. I think the Wild should also ban anyone else from ever wearing the number 41 again. Good bye and good riddance.
On defense, Fletcher jettisoned the human pylon Martin Skoula, the only man more entertaining, in that painful kind of way, than the Three Stooges. Gone also is Marc-Andre Bergeron, who played minutes only when there was little or no chance of him screwing anything up. In their places are Greg Zannon and Shane Hnidy. Tow defensive minded d-men. They were needed to be able to unleash the talents of Brent Burns, Kim Johnnson, and hopefully, Marek Zidlicky. Bringing in two guys that have shown they have a nose for keeping the puck out of the net allows the guys who have a nose for putting the puck in the net to do so.
[HockeyWilderness.com]
Thursday, July 09, 2009
Canucks prospect Patrick White told no more 'Mr. Nice Guy'
Here is another interesting article on a Cancucks prospect and current Minnesota Golden Gopher Patrick White. It's articles like this that are going to make people question a certain coach down in Minneapolis, MN. Personally, like I said before I think Lucia is doing a great job as the coach of the Minnesota Gophers.
Patrick White has gone from the Vancouver Canucks' No. 1 pick in the 2007 NHL entry draft to No. 1 whipping boy when it comes to scrutinizing the club's draft history this decade.
Canucks fans see red every time David Perron's name is mentioned, as the St. Louis winger who's scored 28 NHL goals already and made the Blues right out of junior two seasons ago was selected one spot after White (26th overall) in 2007. Comparisons won't get any easier, as the Canucks' top pick last month, Jordan Schroeder at 22nd overall, is one of White's teammates at University of Minnesota. Schroeder, a dynamic centre, was one of the top scorers in points per game (1.29) in U.S. college hockey last season as a first-year player, finishing with a dazzling 13-27-40 in 32 games.
White, also a centre, had 7-8-15 in his second season with the Gophers on the heels of a 6-4-10 rookie season.
But is it fair to rag on White, who's here this week as part of the Canucks' five-day summer prospects camp?
He was projected by NHL Central Scouting as a second-rounder and surprised some onlookers when the Canucks, under then-GM Dave Nonis, picked the former Minnesota high school star so high.
Is he another blown first-rounder? Or is there still a chance he could one day wear the Orca on his chest?
The Canucks certainly haven't given up on White, particularly because he's still just 20 years old.
"He's still a young player," said Canucks assistant GM Laurence Gilman. "Different players develop at different rates."
Don Lucia, White's coach at University of Minnesota, also thinks the jury is still out on the 6-foot-1, 195-pounder.
"The biggest issue is he's got to learn to compete harder one on one," said Lucia. "He's a really nice kid, great student, comes from a wonderful family, but ‘Mr. Nice Guy' has got to go away when he steps on the ice. When he learns to battle consistently he'll take a step as a player. That's been his struggle over two years. We've talked to him about it. He understands it."
This is interesting.
I found this today on the QuickFacts and my reply was that you're going to get a bunch of hate mail from Gophers fans. That being said I enjoy reading her post because she has a lot of interesting hockey news.
I don't think this twitter post/tweet is that far out of the main stream because listen to what he is saying.
As said previously in this space, QuickFacts believes Golden Gopher Jordan Schroeder will not return to the University of MN & will turn pro
10 minutes ago from Seesmic Desktop
I don't think this twitter post/tweet is that far out of the main stream because listen to what he is saying.
But Schroeder wouldn't commit to returning to college, only acknowledging it's likely. "I'll have some decisions to make when I go back home," he said. "[But] a year back in college wouldn't hurt at all."
[Faceoff.com]
Corey Fienhage at the Sabres development camp.
Here is what Kris Baker had to say about Fighting Sioux defenseman Corey Fienhage at the Sabres development camp. I think Sioux fans are going to see some impressive play by Fienhage on the blue line for UND this season. I think he is going to blossom into a monster.
Corey Fienhage is built for the rugged NHL. He's very fluid and uses his excellent size in 1-1s to lean and rub players out. Elements of Derian Hatcher with better feet. Very no-nonsense. Even looks mean in drills. Aside from enjoying the physical contact (I compared him to a safety's patrolling mentality in the back field when he was drafted), he's good at getting in front of shots. For his efforts, he was stung inside a shin guard on both days. From the point, he's shown his hard rising right-handed shot on a couple of occasions. He's set to blossom in Grand Forks. [Sabres Prospects]
Bozak impresses Burke.
I believe this kid is one of the more complete players to play in the WCHA last season. Can you imagine how DU might have fared if Tyler Bozak had been available all of last year and not suffered an knee injury? It will be interesting to see how he fares in the NHL next season.
"That's what stood out the first time I watched him play," said Toronto Maple Leafs general manager Brian Burke, whom signed Bozak to an entry-level contract in April.
"The first time I saw him play was probably the worst game he played in college. His team got spanked at home and he probably only had two shots on net. But I still loved how the rest of his team sagged and he just kept on battling.
"He was average at best, but I still liked him."
For most of his two-year NCAA career, Bozak was anything but average. He led the Pioneers in scoring with 34 points in 41 games as a freshman. And last season, despite playing just 19 games, he finished with 23 points and a team-high plus-14 rating.
But aside from his points or his ability to kill penalties or win crucial face-offs, Bozak's biggest asset is his Chris Drury-like character and competitiveness.
Those qualities were on display when Bozak returned from injury against Miami of Ohio for the West Regional semi-final. He may have been rusty and barely healed. But he still scored a goal and an assist in the 4-2 loss.
"I definitely wasn't 100%," he said, "but it was a do-or-die game and I felt I could help spark the guys on our team and just do what I could do out there to help them."
The Leafs, who beat out about 25 other NHL teams to acquire the late-bloomer, believe Bozak can also provide a spark to its rebuilding dressing room.
Burke said the signing was the equivalent to acquiring a second-round draft choice. But unlike Toronto's actual draft picks this year such as seventh-overall selection Nazem Kadri, Bozak is the only one expected to immediately jump into the NHL. [Faceoff.com]
Wednesday, July 08, 2009
Kessel negotiations on hold?
I am trying to figure out what the heck Bruins GM Peter Chiarelli is trying to do? Looks like the Bruins GM is playing hard ball with Kessel. To the fans on message boards that I see suggesting that Marco Sturm and Patrice Bergeron are going to be able to pick up the slack if Kessel leaves. Seriously; that isn't going to happen. Patrice Bergeron is one hit away from a medical retirement after suffering two concussions and Sturm has never scored more than 27 goals in a season. Also neither players is a pure scorer like Kessel.
As far as the current Bruins roster goes, according to a source close to the Phil Kessel negotiations, there has been no communication between the Bruins and the Kessel camp since the NHL entry draft. The last time Kessel’s agent Wade Arnott and Bruins GM Peter Chiarelli spoke, they reportedly let it be known where they stand, with Arnott stressing that his client’s first preference was to remain a Bruin. Chiarelli, according to this source, said the Bruins would get back to him, but as of Monday, they had not done so yet... [NESN]
More college kids paying their own way to camp.
It's too bad that there aren't any professional development camps close by, like maybe the Ralph, where a hockey fan could come watch some of the action and take some pictures. It will be interesting to see how Zach Budish does this season after missing all of last winter with a knee injury.
Hockey is not an inexpensive sport by any means. High-end equipment, registration fees, and travel expenses are all part of the commitment a hockey player and that player’s family are forced to endure to continue playing the sport they love. For the players at the Development Camp, they see the financial outlay as money well spent both in terms of their hockey education and the message their presence sends to the Predators.
“It sends the right message to the organization that you want to be here and you want to play in Nashville one day,” forward Nick Oliver said. “I think it is a great tool for college guys to come here to help them get prepared for their upcoming seasons. I’m going to try and learn a lot here.”
The 6’3” 184-pound Oliver is headed for St. Cloud State University in the fall. He was selected in the 4th round (110th overall) of last month’s Entry Draft.
Fellow recent draftee Zach Budish echoed Oliver’s comments.
“It’s a big week in our development, and gets us started off on the right note,” Budish said. “I just got drafted a couple of weeks ago, so I wanted to come down here, have a good experience, and learn a lot of things hopefully.”
The 18-year-old Budish already possesses NHL size at 6’3” and 229 pounds. He is recovering from a torn ACL sustained in a high school football game last fall. That injury prevented him from playing his senior hockey season at Edina High in Edina, Minnesota. Had Budish not sustained the knee injury, there was a good chance he would have been selected in the first round of the Entry Draft. Nashville selected him in the second round with the 41st overall pick.
Budish, who will play for the University of Minnesota in the fall, credited his parents for their financial contribution allowing him to come to Nashville [Examiner.com]
Early Signing?
Looks like Jordan Schroeder is non-committal on his future. I would be willing to bet we will see him for one more year in the WCHA.
Although he's clearly got a top-end future, Schroeder's probable path is to return to Minnesota, where he can mature physically for another year while likely contending for the Hobey Baker Award for college hockey's best player.
But Schroeder wouldn't commit to returning to college, only acknowledging it's likely. "I'll have some decisions to make when I go back home," he said. "[But] a year back in college wouldn't hurt at all." [Faceoff.com]
Anaheim Ducks sign Saku Koivu
Confirmed by [Mike Russo] You can take Saku Koivu off of the Wild's list of potential free agents. Looks like Wild fans are stuck with first round bust(s) James Sheppard and Benoit Pouliot. I am hoping the new GM tries to get another prized free agent.
The Anaheim Ducks have signed the free agent centre to a one-year, $3.25-million contract. Koivu, 34, had been the Canadiens' second-longest-serving captain in team history. [montrealgazette]
Canucks prospect pays his own way
Props to Richard from the Illegal Curve. Interesting article on Gophers forward Jordan Schroeder. I am surprised that Gophers coach Don Lucia didn't send Jordan with a shadow to make sure he comes back to Minnesota without a contract in hand. Also in the article you will notice a few familiar names of UMD Bulldog players Mason Raymond and Evan Oberg.
Jordan Schroeder, the Vancouver Canucks’ first-round pick in last month’s draft, had to borrow money from his father to attend the NHL team’s prospect camp at the University of British Columbia this week.
Schroeder, who attends the University of Minnesota, is subject to the strict rules of the U.S. National Collegiate Athletic Association. To protect his amateur status, and to be eligible to play for the Golden Gophers later this year, Schroeder had to pay his own way and must take care of his own lodging while in Vancouver.
“I definitely wanted to come and show the organization that I’m interested,” said Schroeder, the 22nd pick in the draft who has yet to sign a professional contract. “I wanted to prove to them that I can come in and pay my dues, even if it costs a little bit.”
Schroeder, 18, isn’t the only one paying his own way to take part in team-organized events. While other U.S. collegians among the two dozen or so prospects at camp this week face the same financial requirements, the Canucks also have NHL veterans and hopefuls digging into their own pockets to travel to Vancouver this summer.
The Canucks are holding off-ice training sessions with strength and conditioning coach Roger Takahashi. Every player in the organization is invited to take part in the GM Place workouts, though they are more suited for younger players looking to improve their game or their chances of making the team at training camp this fall. [the Globe and Mail]
Tuesday, July 07, 2009
Here is the video of the new BSU arena
Here is the a video of the new BREC, it is an impressive site and it's a good way to start off on the right foot in the WCHA for BSU. It also levels the playing field with the other haves around the WCHA. According to Moose Richards of KBUN AM 1450 in Bemidji, MN the Beavers head coach Tom Serratore would like to open the new BREC with North Dakota. Stay tuned as soon as we find out who will be the first team to open the new BREC I will let you know.
More on Joe Colborne at the Bruins Development Camp.
I guess in a way I am hoping this kids turns out to be the second coming of Joe Thornton only better. Meaning he won't disappear during the Stanley Cup playoffs and get sent to San Jose in a trade. Also! Good news for the other WCHA teams that big Joe doesn't plan on being at DU for all four years. You do have to love his honesty. As a first round draft choice most of us don't expect to be there that long either.
BEDFORD, Mass. — Denver head coach George Gwozdecky might not like to hear it, but Boston Bruins prospect Joe Colborne isn’t shy about the fact that he doesn’t plan to play four years for the Pioneers.
Fresh off his freshman campaign, Colborne explained that today after the first day of the Bruins’ Third Annual Development Camp at The Edge Sports Center, where the attendees were put through some land testing and then team-bonding exercises.
“I’m ready to be a Bruin whenever I can be,” Colborne, the Bruins’ first-round pick (16th overall) in ‘08, explained. “But again, I’m not going to kind of rush myself in so that I’m not ready. I have a great situation back at Denver, so whenever we sit with management we’ll figure that out.”
Colborne produced 10-21-31 totals in 40 games for the Pioneers this season. But those aren’t the numbers he and the Bruins are most interested in. For Colborne, playing college hockey in the U.S. is all about bulking up. He weighed in today at 206, which he said is 13 pounds more than he weighed at the start of Denver’s season. So eating eggs every day and hitting the weights as often as possible,paid off.
“It was a lot of hard work. That was the main reason I went to the college route because I could be working out three times a week all year,” he said. “We have a great trainer down there and ever since I’ve been home in the summer I’ve been working out in Calgary six times a week. It’s nice to finally see the rewards starting to come.
----------{snip}----------
“I think some of the guys that haven’t been here before, especially today, were a little bit shocked by what we were doing,” said Colborne, who played both center and wing for the Pioneers but thinks he’d still like to be a center in the pros. “But we were all in that situation, especially last year. For me being in that situation, I felt a little bit out of place sometimes, not knowing what to expect. They’ll learn quick just like we did last year.”
Colborne obviously caught on quick to college life. He said he kept his grades up and learned to cook a bit. And on the ice and in the weight room he made major strides. The next step is to turn pro — when it’s determined by all parties he is ready, but sooner rather than later.
Purple Mavs and Red Mavs...
Nice article by Purple Mav's blogger Shane Frederick in yesterdays Mankato paper. Interesting take on BSU, UNO and MSU-M. One of the things that hasn't come up much during the realignment was that UND, MSU-M SCSU, UNO and for a few years UMD were in the now defunct NCC conference and that these schools had a history together in Division II sports such as baseball, basketball and football.
The last time the WCHA added a team was in 1999 when Minnesota State joined the league.
That was a much different situation 10 years ago, as the local, purple Mavericks were making the transition from the dying Division II ranks to Division I.
Minnesota State’s short stint as a D-I independent involved a sort of initiation process, playing in the nine-team WCHA’s conference tournament as the 10th seed for two years before becoming a full-fledged member of the fraternity. Even then, Minnesota State had to pay an expansion fee and not share in the conference tournament and Final Five money.
Like MSU, Bemidji State jumped from Division II to Division I. In 1999 it left the Northern Collegiate Hockey Association behind and helped found the now nearly defunct College Hockey America conference. Omaha started its program from scratch and began playing in 1997. After its overtures to the WCHA were turned down, it joined the Central Collegiate Hockey Association in 1999.
Both schools’ stock jumped up recently, as the Beavers shocked the college-hockey world by advancing to the NCAA Frozen Four in April and, a month ago, the red Mavericks hired ex-North Dakota coach Dean Blais, who won two national championships with the Sioux, to run the program.
The WCHA certainly isn’t adding a pair of powder-puffs, and all 10 of its current members might be just a tad nervous right now.
While the addition of those two schools will give the WCHA a much different look in a couple of years, it might not be too strange for Minnesota State and its fans.
The purple Mavericks practically have considered the schools their D-I cousins and have maintained rivalries with both. A longtime D-II rival with Bemidji, Minnesota State has played the Beavers every year since 1998, going 14-5-2 against them in that span. MSU has played Omaha, an old North Central Conference rival in other sports, every year but two since 1997 and has a 14-6-4 all-time record against the red Mavs.
Minnesota State and Nebraska-Omaha have played for the “Spirit of the Maverick” trophy every year since 2001-02. Come 2010, the WCHA will undergo a spirit of change. [Mankato Free Press]
College Hockey players in Bruins development camp.
Here is a list of players in the Bruins development camp that have college hockey experience. Most notable is Joe Colborne who was a first round draft choice in last years draft.
F Scott Campbell Umass-Lowell 14-16-30 in 38 games
F Joe Colborne 16th in 2008 University of Denver 10-21-31 in 40 games
D Tommy Cross 35th in 2007 Boston College 0-8-8 in 24 games
G Matt Dalton signed in 2009 Bemidji State University 2.19 GAA .921 Sv%
D Alain Goulet 159th in 2007 University of Nebraska-Omaha 2-3-5 in 17 games
D Brady Lamb University of Minnesota-Duluth 1-1-2 in 21 games
F Jason Lawrence Boston University 25-14-39 in 44 games
D Tyler Ludwig Western Michigan University 8-21-29 in 41 games
D Zach McKelvie Army (NCAA) 5-12-17 in 33 games
[WickedBruinsFan's Blog]
Monday, July 06, 2009
Joe Colborne at the Bruins development camp.

I think this kid is an impressive sight and is going to have a monster season in the WCHA. As a Bruins fan it would love to see this kid succeed and move on. By him succeeding and moving on means my favorite team the Fighting Sioux won't have to worry about checking him during WCHA league games. Looks like DU fans will get to enjoy him for another season as well.
Boston Globe: How Joe Colborne is growing into his body and game. Big Joe currently checks in at 6-foot-6, 196 pounds. That's an inch taller than he was last summer. He is arguably the club's brightest prospect because of his size and skill. Colborne will return to the University of Denver for his sophomore season.[Bruins Blog]
More on Zajac filing for arbitration.
Here is an interesting article about former Fighting Sioux hockey Travis Zajac and him filing for arbitration. It will be interesting to see what he gets for a contract. Zajac played in 82 games scoring 20g-42a-62 pts and was a +33.
The short-term and initial good news is that Travis Zajac will (almost) definitely return next season. I emphasize almost as teams have "walk-away" rights after the results of arbitration that they can invoke within a vast number of requirements. Based on past arbitration hearings with the Devils that I can recall, the player has returned next season. Moreover, I don't expect the Devils to walk away from Zajac, not with their current lack of depth at the position and with their current surplus of cap space. So expect Zajac to continue to be the center for Zach Parise. However, considering the process, this could turn out to be some serious bad news for the Devils. [In Lou We Trust]
Michael Forney still undecided.
Brad Elliott Schlossman has confirmed that Michael Forney HAS NOT made his decision on wether he is going to return to UND or not. I would imagine that we will hear some kind of announcedment soon on what his decision is going to be.
Forney still has not made his final decision. I think everyone involved thought that the answer would be known by now, but it is not. When I know, I'll pass it along. [UND Hockey Blog]
Sunday, July 05, 2009
Hunwick files for arbitration. (Zajac and Smaby too)
The Bruins need to have Matt Hunwick and Phil Kessel signed and in their lineup for the next season. First off this is a good sign for Matt Hunwick. Also, former Sioux hockey playersTravis Zajac (New Jersey) and Matt Smaby (Tampa Bay)filed for arbitration as well.
As expected, Matt Hunwick filed for arbitration by today's 5 p.m. deadline. Hunwick was one of 20 restricted free agents to file for arbitration. Hunwick is expected to come to an agreement prior to his hearing.
"Still negotiating with B's," agent Peter Fish wrote in an e-mail to colleague Kevin Dupont. "It will work out."
Hearings will take place in Toronto from July 20 to Aug. 4. Players who have filed for arbitration are not eligible to sign offer sheets. The deadline for club-elected arbitration is tomorrow at 5 p.m.
The other players to file:
James Wisniewski
Colby Armstrong
Clarke MacArthur
Tuomo Ruutu
Aaron Johnson
Marc Methot
Jiri Hudler
Denis Grebeshkov
Kyle Brodziak
Tomas Plekanec
Travis Zajac
Nate Thompson
Ryan Callahan
Nikolai Zherdev
Nigel Dawes
Daniel Winnik
Matt Smaby
Kyle Wellwood
Milan Jurcina
[Boston.com]
Here is what was on the Quick facts twitter.
QuickFacts: Mpls native D Matt Smaby of the Tampa Bay Lightning filed for salary arbitration. He made $825K in last yr of 3yr entry level deal in 08-09.
Sports Broadcaster job posted on UND web site.
As someone mentioned over on Sioux sports the UND hockey broadcaster position is open at the UND human resources site. I sure hope the University doesn't plan on replacing Tim Hennesy.
POSITION: Sports Broadcaster (20 hr/wk, TBA), #10-002
APPLICATION DEADLINE: 7/15/2009
COMPENSATION: $ 25,000
UND determines employment eligibility through the E-Verify system. Upon successful completion of the initial probation period, an employee may be eligible for a salary adjustment. Comprehensive fringe benefit package that includes full health insurance coverage for single or family plans, retirement plan and much more is provided. A complete summary of benefits for staff employees may be seen at:
DESCRIPTION OF POSITION:
Current UND employees may receive first consideration. To serve as play by play announcer for men’s ice hockey and other sports as assigned by Associate Athletic Director; To serve as host and emcee for various radio and television productions including but not limited to men’s hockey coach’s TV and radio show; emcee at various athletics functions; fill in as public address announcer; assist with press conferences and public relations; other duties as assigned by Associate Director of Athletics.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Bachelor’s degree or minimum of 5 years hockey play by play experience
Hockey play by play radio/TV broadcast experience
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
Familiar with NCAA rules and regulations
Saturday, July 04, 2009
Education of an A.D.: Alberts Is a Quick Study

[Props] Here is an interesting article that appeared in the New York Times on the UNO Mavericks. While I can't stand the New York Times political slant they do have decent college and professional hockey coverage and some really nice blog articles. I also think the Hockey blogger has a very cool name in Stu Hackel.
As a college hockey fan I have to say that I have been very impressed with the direction that Trev Alberts has taken the UNO hockey program since he was hired at UNO. First he hired former UND hockey coach Dean Blais, gained membership in the WCHA and hired a good assistant coach in Mike Hastings.
It is going to be interesting to see how the Mavericks do in their last season in the CCHA. I also wonder how long it will take before Dean Blais has the Mavericks challenging the elite teams in the WCHA for home ice playoff spot, MacNaughton Cup and or Broadmoor Trophy?
Facing a tight deadline, Alberts tapped boosters for nearly $400,000 so he could lure Dean Blais, a two-time national champion at North Dakota, to coach men’s hockey, Nebraska-Omaha’s only Division I program.
Alberts also leveraged financial concessions from the Western Collegiate Hockey Association as a condition of admitting the Mavericks. On a conference call announcing the acceptance of Nebraska-Omaha and Bemidji State late last month, Bruce McLeod, the conference commissioner, told Alberts, “Trev, you can be one tough guy to deal with, and I’ve got the scars to prove it.”
Alberts is trying to rework the hockey team’s lease at the Qwest Center downtown. The university pays rent and receives nothing from parking or concessions, Alberts said.
“He has been able to open doors I couldn’t get close to,” said Don Leahy, a former Nebraska-Omaha athletic director whom Alberts brought back as a part-time associate athletic director. [New York Times]
Kessel not going any where yet.
Happy 4th of July to everyone. Also, props to Richard of the Illegal Curve. Kessel is not being traded to Toronto yet! The rumor deal is off the table right now.
Maple Leafs GM Brian Burke is not about to book Phil Kessel a flight to Toronto.
Burke reported yesterday that a deal between the Leafs and the Boston Bruins, which would have seen Toronto defenceman Tomas Kaberle head to Boston for the high-scoring Kessel, is not on the table anymore, at least not at this point.
In fact, Burke added that interest in Kaberle's services, once very high, has cooled down.
Kessel, 21, is a restricted free agent, meaning that the Bruins can match any offer sheet he receives from other NHL clubs, and reportedly is looking for something in the neighbourhood of $5 million US. The Bruins, however, quickly are running out of cap space and probably would have to deal some players to keep him. If not, a trade with the Leafs may again become a possibility.
Kessel, a native of Madison, Wis., led all Bruins with 36 goals last season (the only Beantowner to score more than 30) and added 11 points in 11 playoff games. Kessel has been criticized for his defensive game, but was plus-23 under head coach Claude Julien.
The deal between the Leafs and Bruins fell apart over a miscommunication, that is, Bruins GM Peter Chiarelli thought that Toronto's first-round pick in the 2009 draft (seventh overall) was part of the swap. Burke said it never was. [Sun Media]
Ryan Hill press release.
I found this article while reading the World of Junior Hockey. The thing that stuck out from the article was Michael Forney being committed to the Sioux. As of right now we have yet to get an official confirmation that Michael Forney is in fact coming back to UND. I would imagine we will find out pretty soon.
Ryan Hill Commits to University of North Dakota The Sioux Falls Stampede announced today that defenseman Ryan Hill has committed to the University of North Dakota for the upcoming 2009-2010 season. He becomes the 15th player on the 2008-09 squad to commit to a Division I school.
Hill was acquired by the Stampede in trade with Waterloo in early January and went on to post three assists in 29 games while helping anchor the Stampede blueline. The Hermantown, Minnesota native recorded a total of six assists in 51 USHL games last season. Prior to playing for the Stampede and Waterloo, Hill spent the majority of the 2006-07 season with the Ohio Jr. Blue Jackets.
"We're ecstatic," said head coach Kevin Hartzell. "Ryan paid his dues more then most and we're excited he found a great home."
The Fighting Sioux went 24-15-4 en route to their WCHA-leading 14th league championship in 2008-09. The Sioux also advanced to the NCAA tournament for the fifth straight season under head coach Dave Hakstol, who also took home WCHA Coach of the Year honors. The Fighting Sioux have advanced to the NCAA Frozen Four in four of Hakstol's five seasons behind the bench. He began his career as the head coach of the Sioux City Musketeers (1997-2000).
A total of eight players who spent the 2008-09 season in the USHL have committed to the University of North Dakota; Brett Bruneteau (Des Moines), Mike Fink (Des Moines), Joe Gleason (Des Moines), Matt White (Des Moines), Michael Forney (Green Bay), Mike Cichy (Indiana), Danny Kristo (Omaha), and Ryan Hill (Sioux Falls).
The Fighting Sioux had 11 former USHL players on their roster during the 2008-09 season; Joe Finley (Sioux Falls), Derrick LaPoint (Green Bay), Mario Lamoureux (Tri-City), Brad Miller (Green Bay), Jason Gregoire (Lincoln), Brad Malone (Sioux Falls), Ben Blood (Indiana/Des Moines), Jake Marto (Omaha), Evan Trupp (Des Moines), Chris Vande Velde (Lincoln), and Aaron Walski (Lincoln).
The USHL celebrated its 30th season of junior hockey in 2008-09. With nearly 180 players already committed to NCAA Division I schools and 17 NHL Draft picks that played in the league this season, the USHL is the nation's foremost producer of junior hockey talent. For more information, visit us on the web at www.ushl.com.
Avs fan say good bye to Tyler Arnason.
Sounds like Avs fans are ecstatic to get rid of former SCSU Husky Tyler Arnason. The Comments on this subject are comical and worth the read. I first saw Tyler Arnason play for the Ice Sharks of the USHL in 1997-1998 and my first impression of Arnason was that he was lazy, a weak player that shied away from contact in the corners. The fact that he has made it this long in the NHL puzzles me.
Relief is finally here, Avs fans. No more startling, sweat-soaked leaps from the pillow at 3 a.m., following visions of Tyler Arnason playing for your team.
No longer will you have to pound the table after seeing Arnie get the puck taken off his stick, then watching him casually skate back to the bench with that “who cares?” look on his face.
No longer will you have to pull your hair after seeing Arnie misfire on another shot, or have it easily blocked and taken the other way, Arnie a full three strides behind in pursuit.
No longer will you have to look at an Avalanche payroll list and see Arnie making more money than guys like Lappy. No longer will you have to see Arnie shy away from making any contact with an opponent, which if he’d done so might have resulted in the Avalanche having the puck.
It’s all over. Arnie is, appropriately enough, a New York Ranger - the team that never saw an over-the-hill, overpaid Avs player they didn’t like.
Bon voyage, Arnie.
Or should it be: bon bon voyage? [All things Avs]
Kyle Keslo on Ryan Hill.
Here is what Kyle Kosior from the IllegalCurve had to say about the new Sioux defenseman Ryan Hill. That is the kind of defenseman I like to see playing for UND.
The Fighting Sioux have picked up USHL journeyman Ryan Hill, who skated last winter with Waterloo and Sioux Falls. An actual defensive defensive that will help the Sioux. Nothing flashy, but not very fun to play against.
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