|
Team
|
(First
Place Votes)
|
Record
|
Points
|
Last
Poll
|
|
|
1
|
North Dakota
|
(13)
|
13-
4-2
|
933
|
NR
|
|
2
|
Boston University
|
(18)
|
11-
3-3
|
915
|
NR
|
|
3
|
Harvard
|
(15)
|
10-
1-2
|
897
|
NR
|
|
4
|
Minnesota State
|
(
1)
|
14-
4-1
|
870
|
NR
|
|
5
|
Miami
|
14-
6-0
|
752
|
NR
|
|
|
6
|
Massachusetts-Lowell
|
14-
3-3
|
747
|
NR
|
|
|
7
|
Minnesota-Duluth
|
(
3)
|
12-
6-0
|
702
|
NR
|
|
8
|
Michigan Tech
|
15-
5-0
|
641
|
NR
|
|
|
9
|
Minnesota
|
10-
5-1
|
554
|
NR
|
|
|
10
|
Denver
|
11-
5-1
|
514
|
NR
|
|
|
11
|
Bowling Green
|
12-
3-3
|
452
|
NR
|
|
|
12
|
Vermont
|
14-
5-1
|
448
|
NR
|
|
|
13
|
Nebraska-Omaha
|
12-
5-3
|
442
|
NR
|
|
|
14
|
Providence
|
13-
6-1
|
371
|
NR
|
|
|
15
|
Quinnipiac
|
13-
6-1
|
304
|
NR
|
|
|
16
|
Boston College
|
11-
7-1
|
274
|
NR
|
|
|
17
|
Colgate
|
11-
6-1
|
212
|
NR
|
|
|
18
|
Merrimack
|
11-
6-2
|
183
|
NR
|
|
|
19
|
Yale
|
8-
3-2
|
155
|
NR
|
|
|
20
|
Robert Morris
|
12-
4-4
|
55
|
NR
|
|
|
Others receiving votes: Union 35,
Michigan 15, Alaska 9, Dartmouth 8, Penn State 6, Holy Cross 4, Northern
Michigan 1, Notre Dame 1.
|
|||||
Monday, January 05, 2015
USCHO.com Division I Men's Poll
Sunday, January 04, 2015
USHL Arena Review - Icebox Arena - Lincoln, NE - UPDATED
by Redwing77
Updates at the bottom and in italics where necessary
About the Icebox Arena
The Icebox Arena is the USHL home of the Lincoln Stars. This arena was built in 1951 but was not originally built for hockey. The conversion to a hockey arena came in 1997. It seats just over 4,000 people.
The Facility
This arena is OLD and it's pretty apparent that, when they built this in 1951, the builders never envisioned ice hockey in the facility. I do not know what this building was originally used for, but sources I talked to suggested it was used for things like agricultural fairs (like 4-H functions), rodeos, and the like. It does have a concert configuration that would seat 5,000 but I've never heard of a concert being held at this facility. It truly seems like the Stars are the primary tenants.
The arena features true rustic flavor with only a few upgrades that separate it from the likes of the Buccaneer Arena of Des Moines. There is a bar area that opens up to the arena at the north end of the rink as well as a small balcony that seats a few fans (sorry, I am unaware of exactly how many).
The seating is very basic plastic fold-down seating. They are more comfortable and less splinter-prone than the Buccaneer Arena's benches but other than that, it's about the same atmosphere (without the fans). Sadly, the arena could be DRAMATICALLY improved if they invested in cup holders. As it may, full houses at the arena are NOT pleasant experiences if you are trying to do anything other than watch the game.
There are no screens or fancy technology like jumbotrons in this arena. I am unsure as to why they have not done what Buccaneer arena has done and simply hoisted a projector screen and mounted a projector to the roof. If PowerPoint and basic video could work for Des Moines, it would work for Lincoln.
The most notable "issues" lie in bathrooms. Be prepared to do some waiting as there appears to be only one men's and one women's bathroom. I cannot speak about the women's bathroom but the men's bathroom isn't the cleanest and well maintained. Okay, I was told that there are in fact 4 mens bathrooms in this facility. I say "told" because all but one must be hidden in the Club area. I've yet to find them.
Also, the lighting is not very good and, though you won't have trouble seeing anything (especially if it is on the ice), it does seem like it is very much like a cave inside the arena.I'm told they have HD lighting...whatever that is. However, no matter how offended the complaint is about this comment, I stand by it. This is the only arena I've ever been to where I could not make out what people on the other side of the rink were wearing. I know that's not the point of a hockey game, but... if it wasn't on the ice it wasn't really clear to see without the spotlight. Sorry, but I stand by my comment.
In the concourse they have big projector screens that show whatever hockey games they can find on television...or football games if the purveyors deem it important enough to the Lincoln crowd. Why they can do this and not put on in the rink area, nor post goal cameras for replays is beyond me.
I cannot give this facility a good grade. However, it IS better than Des Moines.
Grade: C-
Ice Quality
If you discount aesthetics, the ice is good, but not great. They do not have the rough ice that Kearney has, but there are issues. Most notable issues lies in bacterial growth between layers of ice that gives the ice a blotchy, brown color in places. The coolant pipes aren't well placed either, most likely due to the conversion process rather than the purpose-built nature of the building. This has caused the ice crew to accidentally drill into the coolant pipes when drilling the holes for the goal pegs. This season has already seen a game called due to this issue.
Grade: C-
Food
So far, not so good for the Icebox, but here's where it improves. This arena features fresh grilled burgers and brats as well as Valentino's Pizza (for those of you who do not know it, Valentino's Pizza actually tastes good in Nebraska) on top of the typical arena fare. Quite honestly, the burgers are great and you can vouch for their freshness as you can watch them being grilled outdoors as you walk into the arena.
Sadly, they serve Pepsi.
Grade: A
Entertainment
Ok, they do not have a lot of technology in this building but what they DO have as what is quite honestly the BEST opening intro in the USHL that I've seen. It is a nice mix of rock music and lighting (often featuring music by Eminem, Metallica, Marilyn Manson, AC/DC, theme from Halloween, and I'm sure others). The centerpiece is a massive metal worked Lincoln Star emblem that is lowered from the ceiling and lit with a light show during introductions. It is simply fantastic. I'd argue the intros plus a burger is worth admission by itself.
The Icebox also features a really good PA announcer (UND fans may get this reference: Their PA announcer reminds me a lot of Scott Hannan (sp) when he did UND games at the Ralph). He's basically a one man show doing all of the PA announcements and, IIRC, the intermission entertainment as well.
Intermission entertainment varies from game to game but I've seen human bowling and chuck a puck promotions, though the chuck a puck promotion was not a regular event like it is in Des Moines, Omaha, and Kearney.
They also feature a guy with a hot dog cannon. This wouldn't be all that noteworthy if it wasn't the same guy that does the Husker home games... and if you knew what all that air pressure and the walls of the arena did to those hot dogs.... It's good for a laugh at least.
This arena also has a playlist that occurs at almost every single game. At certain times in the game, a song will come on and the spotlight will highlight someone who dances with or without a gimmick or it will promote a certain reaction by the crowd.
For example, every game features an Elvis song with a man who is spotlit and dances with an Elvis wig and glasses on (the guy's nickname is even Elvis it appears). Or they'll play the theme from Hawaii 5-0h and Section K will make the motions of rowing a canoe complete with yelling "stroke" and switching directions upon the command of a brave leader in that section. Other songs featured are Cotton Eye Joe and Mickey by Toni Basil.
Grade: A to A+
The Visitor Experience
As a Lancer fan, the experience is very varied. The Lincoln Stars have the same relationship with the Omaha Lancers as UND has with Minnesota. I have talked to Lancer fans who have not been treated very well at the Icebox and I have talked to Stars fans who have not been treated well by Lancer fans.
In the end, it depends upon behavior at the rink and the section you sit in. I, personally, wouldn't dream of sitting anywhere other than Section K. The people I have met in that section were truly fantastic people and have a great sense of humor.
Grade: A+
Overall
The Icebox, to me, is a great place, but it is an acquired taste. Those of us who are used to high tech or state of the art facilities most likely will not like the Icebox. It isn't that hostile of an environment for a visitor and the food and entertainment is top notch, though. As for the future, this building is beyond its useful life... and the Stars are locked into the facility for the better part of 20 more years. There are questions as to what will happen to the Stars as the Icebox sits on land that the University of Nebraska Lincoln could very well claim for their own (the Icebox is just across a parking lot from the Devaney Center, the former home of Husker basketball). I, for one, hope they do figure something out sooner rather than later. I do not know if the Icebox will survive the Stars' lease.
Grade: B- (Facility lowers the score, sadly)
UPDATE Text: Apparently someone was really offended by this review, but I stand by it. I went there as a visitor, not as a member of the media. The person who complained cited some benefits to the arena that, quite honestly, make no difference to the general public (I could care less about any rooms offered to the media and scouts. I do not get to use it nor do 99% of the people who go to the games). It's not highly inaccurate as the complainer protests. It is my honest opinion of the arena experience. He cites that over $500,000 in improvements were made to the arena since new ownership took over. That's a lot of money, sure, but whatever improvements were made, they must be behind the scenes or happened before the first time I stepped in the arena last spring.
Quite honestly, I understand the pride in an organization and the people you work for and represent, but it is what it is. The Icebox is an old arena. It wasn't originally built for hockey. They've done a good job adapting it for the most part but there are serious issues with the arena (age being one of them and the bacteria is another). I said it before: I stand by my review. The Icebox isn't a dump. It is a great place to see hockey, but there could be improvements. The two most pressing improvements, in my opinion, would be cup holders and installing a goal cam system for booth reviews. After that, do what Des Moines did and put up two screens and two projectors and Viva les PowerPoint! I would say the ice issue, but I have no solution for that and I doubt the folks at the Icebox are just sitting back and saying "Oh well" on that issue.
Updates at the bottom and in italics where necessary
About the Icebox Arena
The Icebox Arena is the USHL home of the Lincoln Stars. This arena was built in 1951 but was not originally built for hockey. The conversion to a hockey arena came in 1997. It seats just over 4,000 people.
The Facility
This arena is OLD and it's pretty apparent that, when they built this in 1951, the builders never envisioned ice hockey in the facility. I do not know what this building was originally used for, but sources I talked to suggested it was used for things like agricultural fairs (like 4-H functions), rodeos, and the like. It does have a concert configuration that would seat 5,000 but I've never heard of a concert being held at this facility. It truly seems like the Stars are the primary tenants.
The arena features true rustic flavor with only a few upgrades that separate it from the likes of the Buccaneer Arena of Des Moines. There is a bar area that opens up to the arena at the north end of the rink as well as a small balcony that seats a few fans (sorry, I am unaware of exactly how many).
The seating is very basic plastic fold-down seating. They are more comfortable and less splinter-prone than the Buccaneer Arena's benches but other than that, it's about the same atmosphere (without the fans). Sadly, the arena could be DRAMATICALLY improved if they invested in cup holders. As it may, full houses at the arena are NOT pleasant experiences if you are trying to do anything other than watch the game.
There are no screens or fancy technology like jumbotrons in this arena. I am unsure as to why they have not done what Buccaneer arena has done and simply hoisted a projector screen and mounted a projector to the roof. If PowerPoint and basic video could work for Des Moines, it would work for Lincoln.
The most notable "issues" lie in bathrooms. Be prepared to do some waiting as there appears to be only one men's and one women's bathroom. I cannot speak about the women's bathroom but the men's bathroom isn't the cleanest and well maintained. Okay, I was told that there are in fact 4 mens bathrooms in this facility. I say "told" because all but one must be hidden in the Club area. I've yet to find them.
Also, the lighting is not very good and, though you won't have trouble seeing anything (especially if it is on the ice), it does seem like it is very much like a cave inside the arena.I'm told they have HD lighting...whatever that is. However, no matter how offended the complaint is about this comment, I stand by it. This is the only arena I've ever been to where I could not make out what people on the other side of the rink were wearing. I know that's not the point of a hockey game, but... if it wasn't on the ice it wasn't really clear to see without the spotlight. Sorry, but I stand by my comment.
In the concourse they have big projector screens that show whatever hockey games they can find on television...or football games if the purveyors deem it important enough to the Lincoln crowd. Why they can do this and not put on in the rink area, nor post goal cameras for replays is beyond me.
I cannot give this facility a good grade. However, it IS better than Des Moines.
Grade: C-
Ice Quality
If you discount aesthetics, the ice is good, but not great. They do not have the rough ice that Kearney has, but there are issues. Most notable issues lies in bacterial growth between layers of ice that gives the ice a blotchy, brown color in places. The coolant pipes aren't well placed either, most likely due to the conversion process rather than the purpose-built nature of the building. This has caused the ice crew to accidentally drill into the coolant pipes when drilling the holes for the goal pegs. This season has already seen a game called due to this issue.
Grade: C-
Food
So far, not so good for the Icebox, but here's where it improves. This arena features fresh grilled burgers and brats as well as Valentino's Pizza (for those of you who do not know it, Valentino's Pizza actually tastes good in Nebraska) on top of the typical arena fare. Quite honestly, the burgers are great and you can vouch for their freshness as you can watch them being grilled outdoors as you walk into the arena.
Sadly, they serve Pepsi.
Grade: A
Entertainment
Ok, they do not have a lot of technology in this building but what they DO have as what is quite honestly the BEST opening intro in the USHL that I've seen. It is a nice mix of rock music and lighting (often featuring music by Eminem, Metallica, Marilyn Manson, AC/DC, theme from Halloween, and I'm sure others). The centerpiece is a massive metal worked Lincoln Star emblem that is lowered from the ceiling and lit with a light show during introductions. It is simply fantastic. I'd argue the intros plus a burger is worth admission by itself.
The Icebox also features a really good PA announcer (UND fans may get this reference: Their PA announcer reminds me a lot of Scott Hannan (sp) when he did UND games at the Ralph). He's basically a one man show doing all of the PA announcements and, IIRC, the intermission entertainment as well.
Intermission entertainment varies from game to game but I've seen human bowling and chuck a puck promotions, though the chuck a puck promotion was not a regular event like it is in Des Moines, Omaha, and Kearney.
They also feature a guy with a hot dog cannon. This wouldn't be all that noteworthy if it wasn't the same guy that does the Husker home games... and if you knew what all that air pressure and the walls of the arena did to those hot dogs.... It's good for a laugh at least.
This arena also has a playlist that occurs at almost every single game. At certain times in the game, a song will come on and the spotlight will highlight someone who dances with or without a gimmick or it will promote a certain reaction by the crowd.
For example, every game features an Elvis song with a man who is spotlit and dances with an Elvis wig and glasses on (the guy's nickname is even Elvis it appears). Or they'll play the theme from Hawaii 5-0h and Section K will make the motions of rowing a canoe complete with yelling "stroke" and switching directions upon the command of a brave leader in that section. Other songs featured are Cotton Eye Joe and Mickey by Toni Basil.
Grade: A to A+
The Visitor Experience
As a Lancer fan, the experience is very varied. The Lincoln Stars have the same relationship with the Omaha Lancers as UND has with Minnesota. I have talked to Lancer fans who have not been treated very well at the Icebox and I have talked to Stars fans who have not been treated well by Lancer fans.
In the end, it depends upon behavior at the rink and the section you sit in. I, personally, wouldn't dream of sitting anywhere other than Section K. The people I have met in that section were truly fantastic people and have a great sense of humor.
Grade: A+
Overall
The Icebox, to me, is a great place, but it is an acquired taste. Those of us who are used to high tech or state of the art facilities most likely will not like the Icebox. It isn't that hostile of an environment for a visitor and the food and entertainment is top notch, though. As for the future, this building is beyond its useful life... and the Stars are locked into the facility for the better part of 20 more years. There are questions as to what will happen to the Stars as the Icebox sits on land that the University of Nebraska Lincoln could very well claim for their own (the Icebox is just across a parking lot from the Devaney Center, the former home of Husker basketball). I, for one, hope they do figure something out sooner rather than later. I do not know if the Icebox will survive the Stars' lease.
Grade: B- (Facility lowers the score, sadly)
UPDATE Text: Apparently someone was really offended by this review, but I stand by it. I went there as a visitor, not as a member of the media. The person who complained cited some benefits to the arena that, quite honestly, make no difference to the general public (I could care less about any rooms offered to the media and scouts. I do not get to use it nor do 99% of the people who go to the games). It's not highly inaccurate as the complainer protests. It is my honest opinion of the arena experience. He cites that over $500,000 in improvements were made to the arena since new ownership took over. That's a lot of money, sure, but whatever improvements were made, they must be behind the scenes or happened before the first time I stepped in the arena last spring.
Quite honestly, I understand the pride in an organization and the people you work for and represent, but it is what it is. The Icebox is an old arena. It wasn't originally built for hockey. They've done a good job adapting it for the most part but there are serious issues with the arena (age being one of them and the bacteria is another). I said it before: I stand by my review. The Icebox isn't a dump. It is a great place to see hockey, but there could be improvements. The two most pressing improvements, in my opinion, would be cup holders and installing a goal cam system for booth reviews. After that, do what Des Moines did and put up two screens and two projectors and Viva les PowerPoint! I would say the ice issue, but I have no solution for that and I doubt the folks at the Icebox are just sitting back and saying "Oh well" on that issue.
USHL Arena Review: Viaero Event Center - Kearney, NE
About the Viaero Event Center
Located just off the highway on the south side of Kearney, NE, the Viaero Event Center is home to the USHL's Tri City Storm and has been since it opened in November of 2000. It seats just over 4,000 people and is used for much of the same events as a typical Civic Auditorium would be utilized for (craft fairs, concerts, basketball, etc.).
The Facility
Overall, this seemed to me to be a rather small facility with much of the basic amenities shoehorned in. For example, the Will Call Booth is simply a counter placed in the entrance foyer of the arena. Since there is no space in the foyer for anything resembling a line, this meant that the lines for tickets went out the door quite a ways. Since it gets as cold as a typical North Dakota winter in central Nebraska, this makes for a rather poor start to an experience.
The seats, flooring, and facilities in general though are pretty good. The building itself resembles Cedar Rapids' arena in many ways (similar roofing and ceiling infrastructure and similar seating for example). The bathrooms were clean (which is no small feat considering what you usually find in sports arenas).
There are luxury boxes in this arena, which is the first I noticed since Ralston. There's not much in the way of amenities in these boxes, just movie theater style chairs and servers. This isn't bad, if the price matches what you get. Ralston's suites are rather pricey for what you get.
Grade: B-
Ice
Well, for every good thing, there's bad. Viaero Event Center has possibly the WORST ice in the USHL. The only reason why there's doubt is because I haven't been to every arena yet. Forget the puck jumping all over the place... that happens. But when players and refs can't skate half the time and are sliding into boards and falling down just trying to turn (and even sometimes when they're not)... the ice was just dreadful. I have no idea why there is such incredible problems with their ice, but upon talking to several Kearney residents and Tri City season ticket holders, they all agreed that the ice is a huge problem. I'm just not sure why this arena, which cost approximately $10.5 million in 1999 and was built for hockey and ice skating, would have such horrible problems. Des Moines' arena, for example, may be long past its useful life, but the ice was fine. They may want to start a capitol campaign to fix this.
Grade: F
Food
I failed in this regard as we did not partake in any food, but I did notice that they served typical arena fare... and they DID serve Coke products!!! They're one of only three arenas (Des Moines and Sioux City being the other two) to serve Coke. However, because I did not partake, there is no grade for this facility at this time.
Entertainment
I went on what could only be called "Kids Night" at the arena... It was "Frozen" Night at Viaero and the first X amount of kids dressed up as Elsa from the movie get a tiara and a wand. They also had photo ops with much of the cast of Frozen and, for some strange reason, Cinderella.
In between the first and second periods, they had a relay race to build a snowman (complete with the Frozen song). In between the second and third periods, they had a chuck a puck promotion.
Most notable in their entertainment: No gimmicks, gags, or over the top nonsense. The entertainment was straightforward and not too "cutesy."
They also gave away some pretty decent prizes like DQ Ice Cream cakes, a month's supply of free car washes, and a free night's stay at a local resort hotel.
Grade: A
The Visitor Experience
As outlandish, over the top Lancer fans, my friends and I went expecting to be razzed a bit because we are loud and proud. What we got instead was friendly tolerance and even some turnabout on the part of some of the fans who sat near us (for example, they'd do our cheer to mock the goaltender back at our goaltender when it was appropriate to do so). The worst jibe we heard was "Go back to Omaha!" This is NOT a hostile crowd if you are a visiting fan... unless you decide to be abusive to them.
Since we happened to go to Kearney in the midst of a potential winter storm, no less than 3 separate fans came up to us with road condition reports and many more wished us safe drives back to Omaha after the game.
These were genuine and kind folks in Kearney. Those fans we did get to speak to were kind, passionate about their team, and great hosts.
In the end, I would NOT hesitate to return to Viaero in the future. However, I'd rather NOT visit in the same weather.
Grade: A+
Overall
The fans were great, the seats were good, the facility (except for the ice and the entrance area) was great. It's unfortunate that the ice quality prevents the Viaero from being one of the better visiting arenas in the USHL. Nevertheless, it is better than Des Moines as a fan to watch the game.
Grade: B
Located just off the highway on the south side of Kearney, NE, the Viaero Event Center is home to the USHL's Tri City Storm and has been since it opened in November of 2000. It seats just over 4,000 people and is used for much of the same events as a typical Civic Auditorium would be utilized for (craft fairs, concerts, basketball, etc.).
The Facility
Overall, this seemed to me to be a rather small facility with much of the basic amenities shoehorned in. For example, the Will Call Booth is simply a counter placed in the entrance foyer of the arena. Since there is no space in the foyer for anything resembling a line, this meant that the lines for tickets went out the door quite a ways. Since it gets as cold as a typical North Dakota winter in central Nebraska, this makes for a rather poor start to an experience.
The seats, flooring, and facilities in general though are pretty good. The building itself resembles Cedar Rapids' arena in many ways (similar roofing and ceiling infrastructure and similar seating for example). The bathrooms were clean (which is no small feat considering what you usually find in sports arenas).
There are luxury boxes in this arena, which is the first I noticed since Ralston. There's not much in the way of amenities in these boxes, just movie theater style chairs and servers. This isn't bad, if the price matches what you get. Ralston's suites are rather pricey for what you get.
Grade: B-
Ice
Well, for every good thing, there's bad. Viaero Event Center has possibly the WORST ice in the USHL. The only reason why there's doubt is because I haven't been to every arena yet. Forget the puck jumping all over the place... that happens. But when players and refs can't skate half the time and are sliding into boards and falling down just trying to turn (and even sometimes when they're not)... the ice was just dreadful. I have no idea why there is such incredible problems with their ice, but upon talking to several Kearney residents and Tri City season ticket holders, they all agreed that the ice is a huge problem. I'm just not sure why this arena, which cost approximately $10.5 million in 1999 and was built for hockey and ice skating, would have such horrible problems. Des Moines' arena, for example, may be long past its useful life, but the ice was fine. They may want to start a capitol campaign to fix this.
Grade: F
Food
I failed in this regard as we did not partake in any food, but I did notice that they served typical arena fare... and they DID serve Coke products!!! They're one of only three arenas (Des Moines and Sioux City being the other two) to serve Coke. However, because I did not partake, there is no grade for this facility at this time.
Entertainment
I went on what could only be called "Kids Night" at the arena... It was "Frozen" Night at Viaero and the first X amount of kids dressed up as Elsa from the movie get a tiara and a wand. They also had photo ops with much of the cast of Frozen and, for some strange reason, Cinderella.
In between the first and second periods, they had a relay race to build a snowman (complete with the Frozen song). In between the second and third periods, they had a chuck a puck promotion.
Most notable in their entertainment: No gimmicks, gags, or over the top nonsense. The entertainment was straightforward and not too "cutesy."
They also gave away some pretty decent prizes like DQ Ice Cream cakes, a month's supply of free car washes, and a free night's stay at a local resort hotel.
Grade: A
The Visitor Experience
As outlandish, over the top Lancer fans, my friends and I went expecting to be razzed a bit because we are loud and proud. What we got instead was friendly tolerance and even some turnabout on the part of some of the fans who sat near us (for example, they'd do our cheer to mock the goaltender back at our goaltender when it was appropriate to do so). The worst jibe we heard was "Go back to Omaha!" This is NOT a hostile crowd if you are a visiting fan... unless you decide to be abusive to them.
Since we happened to go to Kearney in the midst of a potential winter storm, no less than 3 separate fans came up to us with road condition reports and many more wished us safe drives back to Omaha after the game.
These were genuine and kind folks in Kearney. Those fans we did get to speak to were kind, passionate about their team, and great hosts.
In the end, I would NOT hesitate to return to Viaero in the future. However, I'd rather NOT visit in the same weather.
Grade: A+
Overall
The fans were great, the seats were good, the facility (except for the ice and the entrance area) was great. It's unfortunate that the ice quality prevents the Viaero from being one of the better visiting arenas in the USHL. Nevertheless, it is better than Des Moines as a fan to watch the game.
Grade: B
Saturday, January 03, 2015
UND vs. USNDT U-18
Team USA line chart: pic.twitter.com/PkzCkDPtat
— North Dakota MHockey (@UNDmhockey) January 3, 2015
North Dakota line chart: pic.twitter.com/jW7pMuer6o
— North Dakota MHockey (@UNDmhockey) January 3, 2015
UND vs. USNDT U-18 Preview - http://t.co/lrQqEE1ShQ #hockey #THW pic.twitter.com/izLVwNFb4k
— The Hockey Writers (@TheHockeyWriter) December 30, 2014
Friday, January 02, 2015
UND Hockey: Max Gerlach Committs to UND
Another day, and another highly-sought recruit commits to UND. This time, UND picks up Max Gerlach who has committed to UND for the 2016-17 season. According to his Elite Prospects Page, Gerlach is from Texas and plays for the Colorado Thunderbirds. He's also a Fargo Force draftee.
According to Brad E. Schlossman, Gerlach, 16, is a draft pick of the Fargo Force in the USHL. He was actually born in Minnesota, but moved to Texas when he was four months old.
According to Brad E. Schlossman, Gerlach, 16, is a draft pick of the Fargo Force in the USHL. He was actually born in Minnesota, but moved to Texas when he was four months old.
New #UND recruit 98 F Max Gerlach is torching the @T1EHL U16 loop with 21 goals in 19 games, plus 17 assists. Big week for North Dakota.
— Over The Boards (@OTBPuckWatch) January 3, 2015
98 F Max Gerlach (CO Thunderbirds U16) commits to North Dakota. Our #31-ranked uncommitted. Smaller skater with great quickness and skill.
— Over The Boards (@OTBPuckWatch) January 3, 2015
Very honored and excited to announce my commitment to the University of North Dakota. Thanks to everyone who has helped get here. #GoSioux
— Max (@Gerlach91) January 2, 2015
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UND vs. USNDT U-18 Preview(thehockeywriters.com)
(Video) Mike Santorelli no goal, Kyle Brodziak goal
First, at the 12:15 mark of the second period, Maple Leafs forward Mike Santorelli has a goal waved off for goalie interference.
Then two minutes later Minnesota Wild forward Kyle Brodziak scores the go-ahead goal to make the score 1-0. What a series of events. I believe the refs made the right call on Santorelli's no goal.
UND Hockey: The Second Half Is upon Us
The second half is upon us. This weekend, UND takes to the ice against the to rid themselves of some cobwebs. Next weekend, UND officially starts the second half of the season with an important two-game conference series against the UMD Bulldogs. UND Starts the second half off with a 13-4-2 record.
Year Before Xmas After Xmas
2004-05 13-7-2 (.636) 12-8-3 (.587)
2005-06 12-7-1 (.625) 17-9-0 (.654)
2006-07 7-10-1 (.417) 17-4-4 (.760)
2007-08 8-6-1 (.567) 20-5-3 (.768)
2008-09 9-8-1 (.528) 15-7-3 (.660)
2009-10 9-6-3 (.583) 16-7-2 (.680)
2010-11 13-5-2 (.700) 19-4-1 (.813)
2011-12 9-8-1 (.528) 17-5-2 (.750)
2012-13 10-5-3 (.639) 12-7-4 (.609)
2013-14 9-7-2 (.555) 16-7-1 (.688)
2014-15 13-4-2 (.737) ---"?"
Totals 113-73-19 (.598) 160-63-23 (.697)
Thursday, January 01, 2015
UND Adds a Goalie Recruit Matej Tomek
Well, it's been a busy day. Add Topeka RoadRunners goalie Matej Tomek to the list of incoming recruits.
Brad Schlossman had said that UND would probably add a goalie commitment very soon. Potentially, UND could have a log jam at the goalie position if Zane McIyntre doesn't turn pro after his junior season. Here's the link to Tomek's Elite Prospects page.
Brad Schlossman had said that UND would probably add a goalie commitment very soon. Potentially, UND could have a log jam at the goalie position if Zane McIyntre doesn't turn pro after his junior season. Here's the link to Tomek's Elite Prospects page.
Official Release -- The Topeka RoadRunners, a member of the North American Hockey League (NAHL) are pleased to announce goaltender Matej Tomek has committed to play his Division I college hockey at the University of North Dakota beginning in the fall of 2015.
Tomek is from Bratislava, Slovakia and is listed on NHL Central Scouting's B list (meaning he's a projected early round draft pick) and he has been scouted and recruited heavily throughout the season. Having several options on the table made for a challenging decision, but North Dakota seemed like the right fit for the 17-year old netminder.
"It was a very tough decision for me, but I chose UND because I feel they will best help me grow both as a player and as a person." His major is undecided at this time, but he certainly has plenty of time for that.
Related articles
College Hockey's Influence on Team USA(thehockeywriters.com)
UND Grinds out Win against LSSU(insidehockey.com)
UPDATED: UND Hockey: Add One, Subtract Another, Rowe Decommits & Adds Gabe Bast
Apparently, UND has some breaking news on the recruiting front. Subtract recruit Jack Rowe and add defenseman Gabe Bast.
If you look at Bast's Elite Prospects page, you will see that he's from the Penticton Vees. That's the same junior team that UND defenseman Troy Stecher played for.
UPDATE: According to Chris Dilks SB College Hockey, Rowe decommitted from UND because he felt that he would receive limited playing time.
If you look at Bast's Elite Prospects page, you will see that he's from the Penticton Vees. That's the same junior team that UND defenseman Troy Stecher played for.
Excited to announce my commitment to @UNDmhockey thanks to everyone who helped me get here. #sioux
— Gabe Bast (@CallMeGabey) January 2, 2015
North Dakota loses a recruit (Jack Rowe, Muskegon/USHL), but picks up a new commit the next day in Gabe Bast (Penticton/BCHL). Hmmmm.
— Andy Johnson (@AndyJohnsonB5Q) January 2, 2015
UPDATE: According to Chris Dilks SB College Hockey, Rowe decommitted from UND because he felt that he would receive limited playing time.
To clarify, Rowe decommitted from North Dakota because he was very unlikely to ever see significant playing time.
— Chris Dilks (@ChrisDilks) January 2, 2015
North Dakota decommit Jack Rowe has committed to Arizona State.
— Chris Dilks (@ChrisDilks) January 2, 2015
Tuesday, December 30, 2014
Brandon Prust vs Brad Malone
If you're a fan of the hockey fight, this good fight. Montreal Candiens forward Brandon Prust drops the mitts and squares off with former Fighting Sioux forward Brad Malone. I can't say that Malone learned to do that at UND.
Monday, December 29, 2014
Saturday, December 27, 2014
Saturday Night at the Fights: Milan Lucic works Dalton Prout
This was the much anticipated fight between Boston Bruins forward Milan Lucic and Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman Dalton Prout. I am going with the advantage to Lucic.
GREAT FIGHT between Lucic and Prout! Lucic takes him down at the end and cuts him open! #Bruins pic.twitter.com/2N18GU7HkM
— ⒹⓊⒼⒶⓈ (@Dugas978) December 28, 2014
Friday, December 26, 2014
New AHL OT Rule Generating Buzz
I like the new overtime rule that the American Hockey League is using. Apparently, the fans seem to like it and the new rule is generating a lot of attention. It will be interesting to see if the NHL adopts this rule.
PAT GRAHAM, AP Sports Writer -- Currently, the NHL uses a 4-on-4 OT model for five minutes. If no one scores, then it goes to a shootout.
But here's how the extra period works on the AHL level: It's seven minutes long - or until someone scores, of course - with the opening three minutes 4-on-4. Then, after the next whistle, it switches to 3-on-3 for the last four, leading to lots of room for creativity and scoring chances. If that doesn't decide things, it goes to a shootout, a concept that drives many a coach bonkers since it's almost like a skills competition.
That's the thing, though. This new overtime system has cut down significantly on shootouts.
Last year, the AHL had 65 percent of its OT games decided in a shootout, Andrews said. This season, it's shrunk to 25 percent.
Even more, of the 99 overtime games so far, 35 of them have been decided in 3-on-3 action.
New York Islanders Transition from Long Island to Barclays
For the last several seasons, the New York Islanders have been somewhat forgotten by casual hockey fans. Of course the fans of the franchise are going to live and die by the team, but everyone else has viewed them as a squad looking for some type of identity. All of a sudden, they now look like one of the hottest franchises in the NHL with a move to Brooklyn on the horizon and a young and talented team. It certainly will be an exciting time after years of mediocrity.
Most teams who have change on the horizon seem to focus on making the roster as good as possible when that change happens. A lot of new excitement is going to be surrounding Brooklyn when the Islanders (or maybe another name) start playing there. However, it is nice to see that those loyal fans out on Long Island are getting an opportunity to see a legitimate Stanley Cup contender fight every single night before they are gone.
This team really looks like they are something special, as people in fantasy hockey like the way standouts such as John Tavares, Jaro Halak and Travis Hamonic are playing. It seems like an entire team effort, and in a pretty mediocre Eastern conference, anything can happen as long as they get into the playoffs while things are going well.
Eventually, the Islanders are going to move to a fancy, state of the art arena, and new fans are going to adopt them as their NHL team. However, there is something to be said for this final run with a pretty talented core group of players. They might not be as talented as that dynasty three decades ago that really helped to build this franchise, but a memorable playoff run could make the move a little bit more tolerable.
Most teams who have change on the horizon seem to focus on making the roster as good as possible when that change happens. A lot of new excitement is going to be surrounding Brooklyn when the Islanders (or maybe another name) start playing there. However, it is nice to see that those loyal fans out on Long Island are getting an opportunity to see a legitimate Stanley Cup contender fight every single night before they are gone.
This team really looks like they are something special, as people in fantasy hockey like the way standouts such as John Tavares, Jaro Halak and Travis Hamonic are playing. It seems like an entire team effort, and in a pretty mediocre Eastern conference, anything can happen as long as they get into the playoffs while things are going well.
Eventually, the Islanders are going to move to a fancy, state of the art arena, and new fans are going to adopt them as their NHL team. However, there is something to be said for this final run with a pretty talented core group of players. They might not be as talented as that dynasty three decades ago that really helped to build this franchise, but a memorable playoff run could make the move a little bit more tolerable.
Thursday, December 25, 2014
NHL Network-US 2015 WJC live broadcast schedule
Once again, the World Junior Championship will be carried by the NHL Network. Programming note: All time are eastern time.
Merry Christmas from Goon's World
Here's hoping your day is Merry and Bright.
Merry Christmas.... I dont remember the 12 Days of Christmas including Labs. pic.twitter.com/t1WUIEL3Pr
— Eric J. Burton THW (@goon48) December 17, 2014
Wednesday, December 24, 2014
John Scott Has a Hearing Today
It will be interesting to see how many games will San Jose Sharks pugilist John Scott gets for his latest transgression. There's no defending this type of thuggery.
What's your prediction? Also, I have read where some fans think that Tim Jackman was embellishing. According to all of the posts and articles that I read, Jackman was actually knocked out.
San Jose's John Scott will have a phone hearing tomorrow afternoon for punching an unsuspecting opponent, Anaheim's Tim Jackman.
— NHL Player Safety (@NHLPlayerSafety) December 24, 2014
#sjsharks Are the Days of the Enforcer Numbered in the NHL? - After watching San Jose Sharks forward John Scott pe... http://t.co/pbPzWkS1MZ
— THW_Sharks (@THW_Sharks) December 24, 2014
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Tuesday, December 23, 2014
John Scott Buttends Tim Jackman, Should Be Suspended
This act of stupidity that should land John Scott a nice long suspension. Keep in mind that Scott is a repeat offender. Seriously, I don't how he's not suspended after this. There's no place in hockey for this kind of crap. There's no way to defend this kind of thuggery. The San Jose Mercury News refers to John Scott as an enforcer. He's an untalented hack that can barely skate and is taking up a roster spot. What's even more shocking is that Mr. Anger Management wasn't even penalized on the play. This played was a blatant attempt by Scott to injure Jackman.
I want to be clear, I am all for playing tough and sticking up for your teammates, I also like fights in hockey. This is just plain ridiculous. I don’t think players like Scott should be taking up a roster spot in the NHL anymore. Feel free to defend this play if you would like.
Monday, December 22, 2014
(Video) Sean Bergenheim Lights up Bobby Farnham
Florida Panthers forward Sean Bergenheim lights up Pittsburgh Penguins forward Bobby Farnham with a stiff, hard, legal hit. This is a text book body check.
Bruins Bartkowski will not face hearing
Bartkowski/Gionta is an example of incidental head contact on an otherwise full body check. pic.twitter.com/iCAyDjRwsN
— NHL Player Safety (@NHLPlayerSafety) December 22, 2014
I told a friend of mine that if Brian Gionta was taller, he wouldn't have been injuried. This doesn't make Buffalo Sabres fans any happier. Obviously, some fans are unhappy with the move.
Related articles
Matt Bartkowski hit on Brian Gionta (video)(ndgoon.blogspot.com)
Sunday, December 21, 2014
Matt Bartkowski hit on Brian Gionta (video)
Boston Bruins defenseman Matt Bartkowski was assessed a five-minute major and a game misconduct for this hit on Buffalo Sabres forward Brian Gionta. It will be interesting to see if Bartkowski has a hearing with the NHL's Department of Player safety.
The Box Score will read:
14:08 BOS Matt Bartkowski served by Matt Fraser Fighting (maj) - 5 min against Brian Gionta
14:08 BOS Matt Bartkowski served by Matt Fraser Interference (maj) - 5 min against Marcus Foligno
14:08 BOS Matt Bartkowski Game misconduct - 10 min
14:08 BUF Marcus Foligno served by Mikhail Grigorenko Instigator - 2 min against Matt Bartkowski
14:08 BUF Marcus Foligno Fighting (maj) - 5 min against Matt Bartkowski
14:08 BUF Marcus Foligno Misconduct (10 min) - 10 min against Matt Bartkowski
Boston Bruins: Riley Smith Disallowed Goal (Video)
Doesn't take many views of this video to conclude that this was a blown call. There's no reason that Boston Bruins forward Riley Smith's goal shouldn't have counted. There was no interference with the Buffalo Sabres goalie.
2015 WJC Television Schedule
2015 U.S. Game Schedule
|
Date
|
Opponent
|
Location
|
Time
(ET)
|
|
Fri., Dec. 26
|
Finland
|
Bell Centre, Montreal
|
3 p.m.
NHL Network/ NHL.com |
|
Sun., Dec. 28
|
Germany
|
Bell Centre, Montreal
|
8 p.m.
NHL Network/ NHL.com |
|
Mon., Dec. 29
|
Slovakia
|
Bell Centre, Montreal
|
4 p.m.
NHL Network/ NHL.com |
|
Wed., Dec. 31
|
Canada
|
Bell Centre, Montreal
|
4 p.m.
NHL Network/ NHL.com |
|
Fri., Jan. 2
|
Quarterfinals
|
Montreal or Toronto
|
TBD
|
|
Sun., Jan. 4
|
Semifinals
|
Air Canada Centre, Toronto
|
TBD
|
|
Mon., Jan. 5
|
Finals
|
Air Canada Centre, Toronto
|
TBD
|
Good
news, the 2015 WJC games will be on the NHL Network.
Saturday, December 20, 2014
Pitt's Season Ticket Campaign
This is an interesting way to sell season tickets. Apparently, the school is using the firing of their AD Steve Peterson as a way to sell season tickets.
ESPN.com -- Steve Pederson deftly guided Pittsburgh through conference realignment from the crumbling Big East to the rebuilt ACC. The longtime athletic director could never find stability for the football program.
When Paul Chryst left for Wisconsin on Wednesday to send the Panthers into their fourth coaching search in four years, it cost Pederson his job.
The school parted ways with Pederson in what chancellor Patrick Gallagher called a mutual decision but one necessary for Pitt to move forward following the latest setback for a football program stuck in neutral. Pederson had nearly four years remaining on a contract that ran through 2018.
Are The Boston Bruins shooting for T.J. Oshie?
If you believe the rumors on the Internet, the Boston Bruins attempting to trade for T.J. Oshie. As a Boston Bruins fan, I can only hope this rumor is true. The Boston Bruins are struggling offensively and a player like Oshie would give the listless Boston Bruins a nice shot in the arm.
Of course this trade almost seems impossible due to the fact that Bruins salary cap doesn't have any available space. Right now, the Bruins have $912,000.00 in cap space. To acquire Oshie, the Bruins would have to give up some expensive pieces to the Blues.
Greg Wyshynski, Puck Daddy -- The Blues have to look to the future, and Oshie might not be a part of it.With the season approaching the halfway mark, there are going to be teams that are looking to make trade to solidify their lineups for the stretch run. The Boston Bruins are looking for a forward to play with David Krecji and Milan Lucic. Oshie would probably fit that spot nicely.
So they’re listening to offers, and Elliotte Friedman says a lot of interest is trickling down from the Boston Bruins.
On Brady and Walker on Friday morning, Friedman said the Bruins have “talked a lot” with the Blues. “They’ve been linked to T.J. Oshie, and the issue there is that he’s got more term,” he said.
And that’s the trick for the Bruins: Their cap situation is even more precarious. They too have over $12 million in space for next season, but only 14 players under contract. Adam McQuaid (UFA), Torey Krug (RFA), Matt Bartkowski (UFA) and Dougie Hamilton (RFA) are all up; so is Reilly Smith (RFA).
(Please recall this cap situation in 2015 was the reason they couldn’t give Jarome Iginla a 2-year deal.)
One assumes any deal for Oshie would be salary for salary. Loui Eriksson, struggling to find his footing in Boston, is signed through 2016 and makes $4.25 million. One-for-one?
Friday, December 19, 2014
(Video) Clayton Stoner Hit On Max Pacioretty
I was watching the video on this play and I am still wondering why Anaheim Ducks defenseman Clayton Stoner wasn't given a major penalty for this hit on Montreal Canadiens forward Max Pacioretty? You can break a guys neck with a hit like this. Should this have been a major penalty?
Clean hit. Period. - Canadiens' Pacioretty hospitalized after Clayton Stoner hit - NHL on CBC Sports http://t.co/2PIDaYg6Yu
— TheBieser (@thebieser) December 19, 2014
Thursday, December 18, 2014
Goalie Kevin Aldridge Leaves Lake State
Another year, another player leaving their junior program at the semester break. Lake Superior State Freshman goalie Kevin Aldridge has left the Lakers and will return to his former junior team.
Hockey News North --- Lake Superior State University Lakers head coach Damon Whitten has confirmed that freshman goalie Kevin Aldridge has opted to leave the program and return to the Fairbanks Ice Dogs of the North American Hockey League.
A 1994 birth-year, Aldridge backstopped Fairbanks to the NAHL’s Robertson Cup championship last spring.
But Aldridge — a recruit of former Laker head coach Jim Roque — struggled in four appearances with LSSU this season. He had an 0-2 record, .833 save percentage and 4.80 goals-against-average.
“We wish Kevin the best on his return to Fairbanks and in his next steps in his career,” Whitten said.
Very sad to see freshman goaltender @kaldridge30 leave Lake State. However, not seeing much play, I can't blame him. He's a good goalie! ⚓️
— Laker Hockey (@LakeStateHockey) December 18, 2014
Apparently, Whitten had driven @kaldridge30 away by not playing him. It would appear he's playing favs by not giving him much ice time.
— Laker Hockey (@LakeStateHockey) December 18, 2014
“@chelszalewski: @LakeStateHockey he is an amazing goalie who was not given the chance he DESERVED.” Agreed!
— Laker Hockey (@LakeStateHockey) December 18, 2014
Wednesday, December 17, 2014
(Video) Brett Sutter check on Craig Cunningham
It almost looks like Minnesota Wild forward Brett Sutter caught Cunningham with an elbow in the chops. You make the call. That being said, it didn't look like interference to me.
Patrice Bergeron's Fluky Goal (VIDEO)
In the box score it will read, Patrice Bergeron (6) Wrist shot - ASST: Brad Marchand (11), Zach Trotman (4). In my opinion, it's God Awful goaltending by Niklas Backstrom.
(Video) Ryan Getzlaf Embelishment Penalty
This is totally unacceptable. Again, I am all for fining, punishing and suspending players that embellish to draw penalties. In my humble opinion, diving cheapens the game of hockey and is bad sportsmanship. In this case, you could probably stop some of the embellishment if you just penalized the player diving.
What I don't understand is why the officials don't just take one player? Is it necessary to penalize Dion Phaneuf? Why not just penalize Ryan Getzlaf in this instance?
02:10 TOR Dion Phaneuf Tripping against Ryan Getzlaf
02:10 ANA Ryan Getzlaf Embellishment against Dion Phaneuf
Tuesday, December 16, 2014
Nino Niederreiter Penalty Shot
GIFs: reason for penalty shot- http://t.co/6CnmTfBpRK
Niederreiter penalty shot goal- http://t.co/SiFM17KzQX
— Steph (@myregularface) December 17, 2014
Nick Bjugstad's Sick Shootout Goal
Former Minnesota Golden Gopher Nick Bjugstad scores a sick game-wining shootout goal for the Florida Panthers against the Washington Capitals. The shootout in question went 20 rounds before the Panthers ended up winning the game.
Jack Eichel: "I'm Spending More Time in the Weight Room"
Josh Cooper from Yahoo's Puck Daddy interviewed Boston University freshman Jack Eichel. I found the comment below to be interesting.
Why the NCAA route? What about college enticed you? It had to be more than just taking classes?One of the benefits of playing college hockey over Major Juniors is you get more time to develop physically and get bigger. There's a lot of weight room time. You're not playing a full 75-80 game schedule. One of the things that I have noticed since I started covering UND hockey is how a player transforms in four years of hockey.
I grew up in Boston and watching Hockey East and the Beanpot, so it was always my dream to play at a school like BC or BU. I never dreamed of going to Quebec and playing for a team there, so I guess that’s first and foremost is this is my dream to go here. And then looking at the pros, a lot of people say it’s a disadvantage that I’m not playing as many games.
But I can look at it as an advantage of I’m spending more time in the weight room. There’s a lot more emphasis on each game. Everything is a lot more detailed if you’re playing 40 games in comparison to playing 80 to 100. That’s one thing. And I just thought the college game was better for me. I had played a few years of junior and I didn’t think another year of junior was the best route. I felt I needed to go challenge myself again against older, bigger and stronger competition, where it would challenge me night-in, night-out more than I believe the CHL would. I think on top of all that I was able to get the experience of going to college. Living in Boston. This is everything I’ve wanted, so it was kind of a no-brainer.
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