Red Deer Proud to Host 2016
Memorial
Cup May 19-29
New Inventory
Used Inventory
Service Centre
Parts Centre
Quick Lane
Body Shop
4 Alberta Locations to Serve You Red Deer • Olds • Airdrie • Canmore
Gasoline Alley Red Deer County 403.343.3673
2
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
www.camclarkfordreddeer.com
1.888.308.9457 May 18, 2016
Red Deer Rebels
photo by Zachary Cormier
2016 Memorial Cup Red Deer , Alberta
Proud Sponsor May 18, 2016
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
3
A message from the staff of the Red Deer Express
Firstly, we would like to congratulate our wonderful City and the Red Deer Rebels for winning the bid to host the 2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup. It is an amazing opportunity to showcase what Red Deer has to offer. Our award-winning team at the Red Deer Express has thoroughly enjoyed putting this publication together. An opportunity like this is something that doesn’t come along often, and we are very proud of it. We were also extremely lucky to have the talent of our sports photographer, Zachary Cormier, who took some outstanding photographs included in this feature. Our sales staff, Michelle Vacca and Jenna Hanger, worked tirelessly in reaching out to local businesses and organizations. Without the participation of our advertisers this product would not exist. The tremendous amount www.reddeerexpress.com
#121, 5301 - 43 St - Red Deer, AB
Index
10|
of support from local businesses exceeded our expectations and for that we are truly grateful. The people that make up our creative team really enjoyed the chance to work on a glossy magazine which allowed them expanded opportunities for artistic expression. Our editorial department played a vital role in bringing the stories to life throughout this publication. They had the opportunity to take a closer look at our home team - the Red Deer Rebels - exploring their lives and their impact on the community beyond the ice. We would like to thank the Red Deer Rebels and Brent Sutter for their
PROMISING CAREER
For Haydn Fleury a lifelong love of hockey leads to a bright future
participation in helping to bring this feature to fruition. A special thank you goes to Cam Moon who was an integral part in helping gather story ideas and player profiles as well as arranging multiple interviews. Every individual we had a chance to meet had a unique story to tell and we hope you enjoy reading them as much as we enjoyed writing them. On behalf of the staff at the Red Deer Express, we would like to take this opportunity to welcome visitors to our City for this prestigious event. We hope you enjoy all that Red Deer has to offer, and good luck to the competing teams in the 2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup.
Phone: 403-346-3356
Publisher | Tracey Scheveers
59|
PART OF THE FAMILY
Locals chat about serving as a billet family for the Red Deer Rebels
14|
LEADERSHIP
62|
WAY OF LIFE
21|
REACHING OUT
66|
BIG WIN
38|
A LOOK BACK
74|
THE VOICE
41|
FOCUSED
78|
FAMILY TIES
51|
FAITHFUL FANS
80|
SOLID SUPPORT
4
Brent Sutter has seen success in his time with the Red Deer Rebels
Community involvement enriches local youth as well as the players
Taking a look at the Red Deer Rebels’ long history as a team
Nelson Nogier is eager for Memorial Cup tournament as host team Two long-time Red Deer Rebels’ fans reflect on hockey club’s journey
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
Veteran Kayle Doetzel is enjoying his fifth year with the team
A look at the 2001 Red Deer Rebels’ Memorial Cup win Cam Moon has been broadcasting for the Rebels for the past 18 years Rebel Jake DeBrusk is following his father’s lead in hockey Matthew Eillot has enjoyed watching the Rebels since the very beginning May 18, 2016
A message from Red Deer Mayor
Tara Veer
It is an incredible honour and opportunity for Red Deer to be the host City for the 2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup. The MasterCard Memorial Cup is an event of international magnitude, and we are proud to be the chosen community to welcome over 10,000 international hockey athletes, coaches, officials and spectators. Securing the MasterCard Memorial Cup means many things for our community and, in the words of our Memorial Cup Co-Chair Merrick Sutter, “The time is now” for many reasons including Red Deer’s proud military heritage, our commitment to sport excellence, the potential of sport tourism as a driver and catalyst for our local economy, as well as Red Deer’s emergence and identity on the national and international stage. The Memorial Cup means that our Red Deer becomes a part of a nearly 100 year tradition to honour all soldiers who died fighting for Canada in any conflict. In recognition of those who paid the ultimate price for our freedoms, it is only fitting that we commence the 10 days of the Memorial Cup at our cenotaph in Veteran’s Park. The MasterCard Memorial Cup also means we can showcase and celebrate our community’s proud history of sport excellence, our love of hockey, and our pride in our hometown team, the Red Deer Rebels. The MasterCard Memorial Cup also further solidifies our May 18, 2016
community’s strong positioning for sport tourism, and is anticipated to inject approximately $17 million into our local economy over the course of the event, as well as leave local charities with a financial legacy from the tournament. And finally, hosting the MasterCard Memorial Cup positions Red Deer to assume our rightful identity and take our position nationally and internationally. Televised on the international stage to an expected two million viewers, the MasterCard Memorial Cup will expose the Red Deer we all know and love to the rest of our country and world. It has been 40 years since the Memorial Cup was last in Alberta (a fact the MasterCard Memorial Cup co-chair and I like to note - neither Merrick or I were even born the last time the Cup was here!), so it is not only time for Alberta and Red Deer to host the Memorial Cup, in the words of the Host Committee, “It’s also time to win it!” Please join Red Deer City council and I in showing our ‘Rebel pride’ in the coming weeks and during the MasterCard Memorial Cup when we welcome guests to the great City we call home.
See you at the rink Red Deer. Her Worship Mayor Tara Veer City of Red Deer
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
5
GAME DAY - From left, Reese Johnson and Austin Strand of the Rebels skate away from the pre-game huddle.
Red Deer Overdoor will take care of all your overhead needs! From residential or commercial installation to maintenance, parts or repairs. We carry overhead doors in a variety of colours and designs to match your home or business. Rolling steel doors, accordion doors, security grills, dock levelers, and strip curtains are also available for your space dividing needs.
photo by Zachary Cormier
• Spring Clean Ups • Mowing • Deep Core Aeration • Fertilizing & Weed Control
• Dethatch/Power Rake • Lawn Edging • Shrub & Hedge Trimming • Over Seeding • Mulch & Stone
Call today for all your Landscaping Needs! 403.596.2888 www.greenfreaks.ca
The entire Overdoor team is dedicated to superior quality workmanship. We are one of the largest and most committed overhead companies in Central Alberta.
Look Good. Feel Great. Get Results. • Red Deer North Open • Red Deer South • Sylvan Lake 24/7 • Lacombe
find us on 6
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
May 18, 2016
your ONE
STOPliquor store.
Best Selection. Best Prices. Guaranteed. We will match any advertised price! We have all of your favourite brands and selection in stock at great prices! SOLO LIQUOR www.sololiquor.com May 18, 2016
2 Locations to Serve You
Red Deer North | Opening Summer 2016 Red Deer South | B2067 Gaetz Ave. | 403.347.8898 Open 10am to 12am | 7 Days a Week 2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
7
Range of host events will entertain fans By Erin Fawcett
photo by Zachary Cormier
The Host Committee for the 2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup has plenty in store for patrons looking to attend more than the daily hockey games during the tournament. The general public is invited to an arrival ceremony which will take place downtown at Veteran’s Park on May 19th around noon. “This will be the kick-off and the arrival of the cup,” said Merrick Sutter, chair of the Host Committee and vice president of the Red Deer Rebels.
(Red Deer Archives P342)
A Salute to 120 years of hockey history in Red Deer and the Memorial Cup’s Remembrance of those who served in times of war and peacekeeping. Michael Dawe Historian
8
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
The Parkland Pavilion will be home to the Fan Fest area where patrons can enjoy a ‘main street’ which will showcase team and sponsor booths, military displays, interactive games, photo opportunities and various merchandise including a variety of mementos, hats, t-shirts, golf shirts, jackets and more. There will also be a Hockey Hall of Fame exhibit where CHL, WHL and NHL trophies will be on display throughout the Memorial Cup. Displays will include memorabilia, unique facts and photos from the CHL and WHL’s history. Fan Fest will be open daily during the 2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup tournament four hours prior to puck drop. It is free to the public. The Prairie Pavilion is home to the Molson Hockey House. The area will not only serve as a meeting place for fans headed to the evening game at the ENMAX Centrium, but it will also be the central watering hole for all the action after the game. “We encourage people to come out because there are not a lot of times where an event can come to your City where you can get the sporting, the live entertainment and fan-friendly fun,” said Sutter. “It really is a celebration of junior hockey and with the home team competing for a national championship, it will bring people out.” The Molson Hockey House will open four hours prior to each game and is free entry, unless otherwise indicated. The area will close at puck drop, re-opening at the end of the second intermission and is open until 1 a.m. As well, post-game at the Molson Hockey House will be the place to be and is open to those 18+ every evening post game. A number of entertainers are set to take the stage during the Memorial Cup and include Brett Kissel on May 20th, 9 Second Ride on May 21st, Comedian Kelly Taylor and The Mud Men on May 22nd, Taylor and Hockey Hall of Fame Member Bryan Trottier on May 23rd, Medisinal on May 24th, St. James’ Gate on May 25th, the Bradley Abel Band and the Clayton Bellamy Band (cover charge applies) on May 26th, West of Fifth on May 27th, See Alice and Finger 11 (cover charge applies) on May 28th, and the Randi Boulton Band on May 29th. May 18, 2016
“Headaches, Dizziness and Neck Pain Gone! At Last, Here is the Natural Solution to Your Concussion Recovery!” Depressed? Fatigued? Trouble Sleeping?
No More Depression, Fatigue, Trouble Sleeping, Poor Balance, Irritability, Anxiety and Outbursts of Anger… Dear Concussion Sufferer: t’s been weeks, months, even years since your concussion(s). And, you are told: “Rest”. How much “Rest” do you need? Something is wrong and you know it. YOu still suffer when, in clinical studies, 96% of our patients do better within weeks. Believe it or not, amazing new medical and technological breakthroughs exist which regrow nerve connections in your brain! Get the help you need. Get back in the game. Get your life back. Call for your FREE in-person or phone consultation. Call NOW at 1 (403) 342-7670.
I
Dr. Steve Waddell, D.C., Clinical Director Wellness Coach® Clinics - Concussion Clinic WellnessCoach.ca P.S. Where will YOu be 30 days from now if you choose not to claim one of our FREE “Eliminates Your Concussion Symptoms!” consultations? You'll probably be still suffering when there is no need to be. Call 1 (403) 342-7670, NOW. May 18, 2016
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
9
enjoys a
Haydn Fleury
By Mark Weber
Red Deer Rebels defenceman Haydn Fleury was introduced to hockey as a youngster back in his hometown of Carlyle, Saskatchewan - and the passion to continually refine his skills hasn’t wavered since. “Growing up in a small town, you kind of took the ice when someone else wasn’t using it. Being able to go on it whenever really grew my love for the game,” he recalled, adding he was about three-years-old when he first started. “Really, as soon as I could walk I was on skates. And that’s how pretty much everyone was in Carlyle - every kid played hockey. So me and my brother were both on skates at a very young age. “Hockey has always been a big part of my life - when I went to Notre Dame (Argos AAA) it became an even bigger part of my life. That’s where I became fully committed and really decided that this is what I wanted to do.” HONOUR - Haydn Fleury of the Red Deer Rebels recently received his team MVP award ahead of the Rebels’ final game of the regular season. photo by Zachary Cormier
10
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
May 18, 2016
promising hockey
Fleury, who recently won the team MVP award for the Rebels, was selected by Red Deer in the second round of the 2011 WHL Bantam Draft. He also had another key influence in his earliest years Brenden Morrow babysat him a few times back in Carlyle. “Coming from the same hometown and having someone to look up to from your hometown was really cool,” he explained. “He’s had a long, successful NHL career and is still involved in the game. He’s a really good role model for me,” he added In the 2011-12 season, he made his WHL debut — appearing in four games with Red Deer — skating most of the year in Saskatchewan midget hockey with the Notre Dame Argos AAA team. “Coming into the league at 16 and playing in the top four defense all year for me was a big step,” he said. “So being successful at the age of 16 was a big thing for me. You never know what to expect when you are coming into a league when you are the youngest guy. “I’ve had great coaches over the past four years who have helped me a lot, and helped me to grow my game so I owe a lot to them.” As for Rebels Coach Brent Sutter specifically, Fleury said
career
he holds his players to a pro standard. “And I think we have to live up to that.” Sutter’s influence extends beyond the game as well. “He’s taught me a lot of things, but even more importantly than on the ice he’s also helped me grow as a person off the ice,” he said. “He’s taught me a lot of life lessons that I will be able to (utilize) forever. “He came here when I was halfway through my 16th year, and I think he taught me how to more or less grow up a bit.” Sutter’s guidance was particularly vital when Fleury was a very young newcomer. “As a 16-year-old kid, you’re not going to be perfect so I tried to work on things the best I could and I think it’s helped me today.” Of course, his skills on ice have benefited from the training and extensive experience of the coaching staff as well. “I think I’ve made improvements to make my game more pro-ready and not just a guy that can skate the puck up the ice really fast. “I think I can make good plays and manage a game more as I’ve gotten older.” He recalled how important support was during those years as well. Continued on page 12
& Service Parts, Sales & Service mily time! We make Family time! Fun! Twice as Fun!
NO N TW NO N OW TW TWO T WO L LO O OCA CA C A ATI TION T TI IO ONSW TW ON 6 65 Bu 65 urrn ntt Par ark Driv Drr65 iiv ve 5 Bu
403.356.934 99 03. 188 18 80 0 40 A Av ven nue ue
Vcountry .com www.westernRVcountry.com
May 18, 2016
188 18
4 403.348.801 4 03. 2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
11
Continued from page 11
Haydn Fleury Leaving home at 16 could prove a tad overwhelming in some respects, but there are plenty of folks around you who are more than willing to lend a helping hand. “You have 20 other teammates who have been through it when they were rookies, too, so you can always lean on them and ask them what they did when they were rookies because I’m pretty sure they’ve felt the same way. The older guys - when I was 16 - really helped me a lot and I’m still close to a bunch of those guys today. I owe a lot to them. “My family is also everything to me. They try and come to most games, but when you have two kids playing in the WHL your parents aren’t going to be at every game. But we have a very tight family,” he said, adding they are fully supportive but will also lend a bit of helpful criticism when it comes down to it. “My parents have been a huge support system for me and whenever I need anything, I know they are always there.” According to www.hockeysfuture.
com, during the 2012-13 season, he skated in 66 of 72 games for Red Deer in his first full WHL season and played for Canada Western in the 2013 U17 World Hockey Challenge. The following season, he played for the gold medal-winning Canada U18 team at the 2013 Ivan Hlinka Memorial Tournament in August before returning to Red Deer for his second season and played for Canada in the 2014 U18 World Juniors. “Anytime I get to throw on Canada’s jersey is an accomplishment,” he added. “It’s a real honour anytime you can put that jersey on. It’s been a dream come true.” Fleury was also selected by Carolina in the first round (seventh overall) in the 2014 NHL draft. He signed a three-year, entry-level contract with the Hurricanes in August of 2014. As for the Memorial Cup, Fleury said the news of the event being held in Red Deer was of course very exciting for both him personally and the team as a whole. “It will be a pretty cool tournament. I’ve never had the chance to experience it, but I’m really excited. “Also, right away you get put out
there as the team to beat so you want to live up to that and be a successful team. I think we’ve been doing that this year. “We don’t want to go in just as the Memorial Cup hosts, we want to go in there as the WHL league champions. I think that’s a realistic goal for us.” That comment also led to a broader observation of local hockey fans in general - Fleury has never taken their support for granted. “They always make it a good night to play - there is never a bad night in Red Deer. I feel that we have the best fans in the league. Our fans are awesome, even this year with our team they are coming out more during the week so it’s been a really good year. “We owe a lot of our success to them.” Looking ahead, his goals are clear. “I want to go to Carolina next year and I want to make their team. That’s been a goal of mine for awhile, and I think I’ve made the improvements in my game this year that I can really make a strong case to make that team,” he said. “That’s what I want to be doing for the next chapter of my life. I want to be playing in the NHL and living my dream.”
Looking For All Star Performance ?
You can depend on our certified techs to repair your vehicle right - the first time. Differentials
Transfer Cases NA
FO
TIO
NAL ORGAN
CERTIFIED
IZA
Clutches
Driveline
T
N
IN
ER
IO
T
Transmissions
QUALITY
N R S IO TA N D A R D I Z AT
#8, 7431 Edgar Industrial Drive, Red Deer TGC: 403-340-3330 | PDL: 403-340-1616 Congratulations Red Deer for hosting the Memorial Cup!
12
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
May 18, 2016
“As a 16-year-old kid, you’re not going to be perfect so I tried to work on things the best I could and I think it’s helped me today.” - Haydn Fleury photo by Zachary Cormier
Carryingyour Favourite
Bianca • Simon Chang • Clientele • Lacharite • Lois Denim • Onyx • Dolcezza •
Let’s Socialize 125-31 Clearview Market Way 403.986.9711
May 18, 2016
Brands Fresh FX • Papillon • Fun Sport • Papa • Tribal • Zoe • Parkhurst •
Bring in this ad to Save
10% OFF
Your Purchase!
*Expires May 29, 2016. Original copies only accepted.
Parkland Mall • 403.358.3364 www.suzannes.biz • follow us on 2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
13
Brent Sutter
talks all aspects of
hockey life By Zachary Cormier
photo by Zachary Cormier
Like most junior hockey teams, the Red Deer Rebels have seen their fair share of change over the years. Fans have seen ups and downs as the roster changes and older players move on to continue their careers and new faces move in to take their places. They’ve seen great teams that are perennial contenders and not so great teams that miss the playoffs. But through it all, since 1999, one face has stayed pretty much constant. “I tell you, there was a lot of time and effort put into it. A lot of work. And yet this team, I’ve always said this, I said it the day I bought the team, that this team belongs to this community and Central Alberta. I just happen to own it,” said long-time Rebels’ Head Coach, GM and Owner Brent Sutter of the club he has built over the past 17 years. Sutter, one of the famous Sutter brothers, purchased the Rebels from previous owners Terry and Wayne Simpson in 1999, just seven years after the team joined the Western Hockey League. “To be quite honest I didn’t have plans of coaching or managing the team,” Sutter confessed, smiling. “But when I bought the team, I couldn’t afford to hire a coach or general manager. So I talked to some people I knew at the NHL level and some general managers and they said ‘Well why wouldn’t you just do it yourself? You
14
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
know the game, you’ve been part of the game for a long time, you’ve played for some very, very, good coaches, you understand the business side of it,’” recalled the 53-year-old. The fifth oldest Sutter has a long history with hockey in Central Alberta. Much like three of his brothers before him, and another two after, the Viking, Alberta native’s professional hockey career began with the Red Deer Rustlers of the Alberta Junior Hockey League. “I actually started playing here when I was 15 years of age. I came in and made the team as a 15-year-old and played three years here with the Rustlers - actually all my high school years,” he remembered. The start with the Rustlers kicked off a very long and successful career in hockey, which culminated in an 18year NHL career during which he won two Stanley Cups, played 1,111 regular season games with the Islanders and Blackhawks, and scored more than 300 goals and 800 points. In 1984-85 he was named to the NHL’s First All-Star team along with Wayne Gretzky, Dale Hawerchuk, Marcel Dionne, Bob Carpenter, Denis Savard and Mario Lemieux. But all good things must come to an end and in 1998 he retired from professional hockey due to a series of injuries that kept him sidelined through most of his final years in the league. “It was hard but I knew it was time,” he said of his decision May 18, 2016
to retire at the age of 36. Little known fact. Before returning home to Central Alberta, Sutter was asked if he wanted to take on the role of head coach in Chicago, a job which he turned down. “I just didn’t think that it was the right thing. The players on the team were my best friends. I just thought I was setting everybody up to fail. The team, the players, myself.” So he returned home and eventually ended up taking over the Rebels in 1999. Two years later, he led the team to their first-ever Memorial Cup title. “I remember standing at the podium when we had our press conference to make the announcement that my family had purchased the hockey team. We said that our goal was to win the Memorial Cup within three years and we won it in the second year. “It was probably a very bold statement at the time and everybody probably thought ‘He’s absolutely crazy.’ But I truly believed in my ability as a coach and general manager and I believed in the players that were here and the changes
“To be quite honest, it’s helped me a great deal coming back,” he said of his time coaching in ‘the Show’, as the NHL is colloquially called among junior hockey players. When he re-assumed the mantle of head coach/GM of the Rebels in 2012, the coach was ready to get right back into it. “I wasn’t planning on coming back to be the head coach when I came back, or the general manager at the time. Just because of certain situations it just ended up being that way.” As time goes on and the game grows it’s becoming more difficult for someone like Sutter to juggle the three jobs that he does, and that’s something he says he keeps in mind. “Am I going to do this, be the coach of the Red Deer Rebels, forever? No, I’m not. As this game unfolds it’s really difficult to do both. “We’ll just see. I just kind of take it year to year on the coaching side of it. I’m not sure when next year unfolds what it’s going to bring yet. At this point in time I’m focused on this season.”
“I remember standing at the podium when we had our press conference to make the announcement that my family had purchased the hockey team. We said that our goal was to win the Memorial Cup within three years and we won it in the second year.” - Brent Sutter that could possibly be made.” That legendary 2001 team that laid claim to junior hockey’s highest honor in such dramatic fashion included future NHLers Colby Armstrong, Martin Erat, and Jim Vandermeer, all of whom had long and fairly successful careers in the big league. The Rebels coach has also worked with and developed some of the best players in the league, including Dion Phaneuf, Cam Ward, Mathew Dumba, Martin Hanzal, James Reimer - the list goes on. The success of those players is something that Sutter is very proud of. “It means a lot. It’s something that you’re very proud of, number one. And maybe at some point down the road they’ll look back and say, ‘You know those years in Red Deer, just not on the ice but off the ice, were very important years in my life,’” Sutter said of his former players. Sutter served as the GM and coach of the Rebels for eight years before stepping down in 2007 to take a job as the head coach of the New Jersey Devils in the NHL.
Beyond his contributions to the hockey world, Sutter has become a staple in the community in Central Alberta. Since 1996 the Sutter Fund, a charity that was started by his family, has donated over $2 million to the community targeted at building small town hockey rinks and providing hockey equipment for kids who can’t afford to play. Sutter’s life in hockey has very much been a family affair. On more than one occasion throughout his time in the game he has found himself playing or working with someone who shares his last name. And those family values, he said, are something he tries to instill in his teams. “There were seven boys in the family and when you have that many boys in the family it becomes pretty competitive. We were all there to help each other, but I think that’s why we all always believed in being strong team guys and you want your teammates to be that way. You want your dressing room to be that way. Because you are, you’re like a family. That comes from when we were kids. It’s the way we were raised.”
photo by Zachary Cormier
May 18, 2016
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
15
Dave
‘Radar’ Horning
enjoying his role with the Rebels By Mark Weber
Keeping the Rebels organization at the top of their game takes more than just the raw talent of the players. There is a support system behind the team, including trainer Dave ‘Radar’ Horning. Horning has been with the Rebels since 1995 and in the WHL since 1991. A love for sports in general and hockey in particular was there
photo by Zachary Cormier
essentially from the start. He played all kinds of sports throughout his high school years, but always had a special interest in hockey. “I grew up in Innisfail and tried my luck at playing this crazy sport,” he explained during a break at the Centrium. “Kids growing up in Canada - we all have the dreams of moving
onto bigger levels in hockey - but it doesn’t work out for everybody,” he explained, reflecting on those early experiences. “That didn’t work out, so I headed off to university and got what at that time was called a bachelor of physical education with a major in sports injuries. From there, some
Top-to-bottom car maintenance when it’s convenient for you.
Stop by anytime.
Warranty-approved oil changes
No appointment needed.
Fuel system cleaning
Battery replacements
Engine, cabin air and fuel filters
Coolant fluid change
Transmission fluid change
49 St.
47 Ave.
47a Ave.
48 Ave.
Gaetz Ave.
Hwy. 2A
52 Ave .
48 St.
47 St.
46 St.
47a Ave.
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
48 Ave.
16
49 Ave.
45 St.
® Registered trademark of ML Royalties Limited Partnership, used under license.
47 Ave.
Hwy. 2A
Av 51 e.
4705 – 49 Ave., Red Deer • 403-346-2266
43 St.
May 18, 2016
doors opened up for me to enter the league - I spent the first four years of my career in Prince Albert with the PA Raiders. And then the opportunity to move back home to Central Alberta came about 21 years ago. So in total, it’s been 25 years of service to the league.” He wouldn’t have it any other way, and the enthusiasm for his line of work shines through at every turn. “You’re a rink rat as a child growing up, and you’re a rink rat as an adult,” he added with a laugh. These days, Horning keeps busy with assisting with the team as an equipment manager and trainer. “When we introduce the youngsters to the organization, we’ll have a prospects camp. And that’s where you get to meet the young 15- and 16-year-olds,” he said. “For my role, I’m the equipment manager nowadays, so I will size them up for pants, helmets and gloves and keep that on record so if they do have the opportunity to join us through the season, or if they make the team, it’s time to suit them up in Rebels gear. “At this level, we provide them with everything they need to participate on the ice.” Staff also have to keep on top of providing the correct types of
equipment as the players develop and grow in their own particular skill sets as well. “You’ve got to have it here onhand.” Watching the guys grow from kids in their mid-teens to adults brings its own sense of fulfillment. “You deal with them on a daily basis and see how they mature as young men. For some of them, it’s the first time they’ve been away from home. We try, as an organization, to make sure they are catered to very well here with the organization, the billet families and what-not. “But as they graduate from the program, they enter the ‘real’ world and you try and prepare them for that.” Of course, other personnel in the organization oversee various aspects of the players’ training, including an athletic therapist to look after the injuries and a strength and conditioning coach. “He will look after their training as far as getting them into tip-top shape.” There really couldn’t be a more fitting place for Horning to work each day. “Again, I go back to my childhood growing up and being that guy that spent a lot of time at the rink - playing the game, watching hockey. And I’m very fortunate to still be involved in some capacity.
“It’s about working with people who have all the same goals and aspirations that you do, and learning how to communicate with each other and work together in becoming that team.” Ultimately, it’s tough to beat. The busyness and challenges aside, “I get to come to the rink everyday and watch hockey,” he added with a laugh. Game days can be long days, plus there is the time Horning - a father of two - has to be away from home when the guys are on the road. “You have to have a ‘team’ at home that understands and expects what their husband and father is doing.” Of course, there’s that supportive fan base as well. “They are outstanding fans and we’ve been so fortunate to, over the years, carry a fan base that is second to none. On most nights here we have the full barn and lots of people cheering - they’ve stuck with us through thick and thin.” Looking ahead to the 2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup, it’s a tremendous opportunity for both the team and those who work so hard behind the scenes as well. “Once the announcement was made, it was excitement. And now it’s about preparing for it. We have three other teams coming up so it’s also time to be a great host.”
PRouD SuPPoRtERS of thE RED DEER REbElS
the RiB EyE No fancy frills. No stuffed shirt attitude. Just real people and great food. Everything you want in a steakhouse. Only casual.
mrmikes.ca May 2016 RED18, DEER Memorial Cup Ad Mar 2016 Size: 6.75” x 4.7” CMYK FD#: 7154
6701 Gaetz Avenue, Red Deer AB
403-356-0056
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
17
The Toast of The Party STEAKHOUSE FINE DINING
CRAFT BEER SP ORT S BA R
TIFFANY’S
TAP HOUSE
403.341.3366 3515 GAETZ AVE, RED DEER
403.341.5400 1927 GAETZ AVE, RED DEER
STEAK HOUSE & LOUNGE
18
• •
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
PUB & GRILL
May 18, 2016
milestone By Zachary Cormier
It’s been 50 years since WHL founders and team owners Scotty Munro, ‘Wild’ Bill Hunter, Jim Piggott and Del Wilson decided the time was right to form the first interprovincial junior hockey league in Canada. That summer in 1966 when the owners of several Junior A hockey clubs from various provincial leagues including Hunter’s Edmonton Oil Kings, Piggott’s Saskatoon Blades, Munro’s Estevan Bruins and Wilson’s Regina Pats left their respective leagues and formed the Canadian Major Junior Hockey League with the goal of becoming the nation’s top junior hockey league. The CMJHL, later renamed the Western Canadian Hockey League (WCHL), was officially formed on July 15th, 1966 and by the time the puck dropped on the first season, it included seven teams - the Calgary Buffaloes, Edmonton Oil Kings, Estevan Bruins, Moose Jaw Canucks, Regina Pats, the Saskatoon Blades and the Weyburn Red Wings. “I have to respect the challenges that the founders of this league faced when the league was established back in the mid-1960s,” said current WHL Commissioner Ron Robison. According to Robison, many were not open to the changes the original creators of the league had proposed. “There was a lot of resistance, first of all, for the creation of an interprovincial league because prior to the establishment of the Western Hockey League, or the Western Canadian Hockey League as it was called at the time, there was just simply provincial junior hockey leagues.” Most of that resistance came from the Canadian Amateur Hockey Association,
year for
who were at the time the sanctioning body for all amateur hockey in Canada. “They persevered and they proceeded with the establishment of the league and that was the birthplace, in Saskatchewan largely with some teams from Manitoba and Alberta, to create the first ever interprovincial junior league in Canada and that gave rise to where we are today.” Now, 50 years later, the league has gone from the initial seven teams to a full 22 team league that spans all of Manitoba, Alberta, Saskatchewan and the Pacific Northwest of the United States, though the journey was far from a straightforward one. “There was a lot of movement of teams, a lot of volatility, if you will, early on. But they persevered through the ’70s and through the ’80s, when there was a lot of re-locations and franchise sales that took place and some real instability. But through all of that we have evolved to a league of 22 franchises that, for the most part, are stable and have been able to continue to operate where they are.” Just one of the original seven teams, Saskatoon, remains in constant operation in its original form. The modern WHL, Robison said, is very proud of the stability they now enjoy among their teams. “We’ve been able to strike a balance with co-existing and with a wide diversity of market sizes.” The WHL has been celebrating their 50th anniversary season with a series of events, all culminating in May with one of their teams, the Red Deer Rebels, hosting the WHL’s two sister leagues, the Ontario Hockey
League and the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League, in the 2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup. “It’s very special for a number of reasons. This was a year that we really wanted to highlight our history and no better way to do that than to bring the event back to Alberta where it hasn’t been for 42 years,” he said. Meanwhile, even in 2016, the WHL must compete to make sure they remain one of the premiere leagues for players who wish to blaze a trail to the NHL, especially with many players deciding to play for American colleges in the NCAA on scholarships. According to NCAA rules, any player who plays in the WHL is not eligible to play U.S. college hockey. But there is another way for WHL athletes to receive an education after their time in the league. “Since the early 1990’s, we’ve offered a very comprehensive scholarship program, which has been enhanced with our partnership with Canadian universities, specifically the Canada west universities, whereby there’s a combined financial assistance,” Robison said, adding WHL players receive a guaranteed scholarship from the WHL and financial assistance from the universities as well. “Consequently players now need not be concerned about what their education or scholarship opportunities are, they’re fully guaranteed by electing to play in the Western Hockey League. So we believe that we offer the best development opportunities for players of junior age.”
r catllal” e tt “Beer Den 8 Bow -800 47
“We succeed when you succeed.” 403.343-1155 www.copiesnow.ca May 18, 2016
PH 3
General Dentists & Periodontal Specialist
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
19
•
shaping UR fUtURe
Coming Soon...
RDC’S ViSion: Promoting Health & Wellness for our Communities Just as central Albertans have come together at the Enmax Centrium to celebrate this Memorial Cup, Red Deer College is excited about our vision to build a new facility that will bring together our communities for the 2019 Canada Winter Games and beyond. Introducing the Gary W. Harris Centre for Health, Wellness & Sport. Imagine a world class inclusive facility that integrates education and learning with sport and training. Imagine a place where a new generation of students grow skills to be successful in a variety of health and wellness careers that best serve central Albertans, learning from experts in their fields. Imagine a place where fans are cheering in the stands for a host of local, provincial, national, and international public events. Imagine a place that provides community access that promotes healthy lifestyle development at all stages of life. No need to imagine. Join RDC as we celebrate with our communities the reality of our new Gary W. Harris Centre for Health, Wellness & Sport. Stay informed about construction, enjoy a video, and learn more about the opportunities this Centre will provide for our students and the communities we serve. www.rdc.ab.ca/thecentre
20
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
May 18, 2016
Influencing youngsters off the ice By Erin Fawcett Players for the Red Deer Rebels aren’t just consumed with all things hockey over the regular season - they are also extensively involved in the community, specifically with the younger generation. One of those involvements comes in the form of spending time with youngsters at Annie L. Gaetz Elementary School. Since 1993, the Rebels have visited that school monthly during the hockey season. Kevin Robertson, principal at the school, said the students love having the Rebels’ players in their classroom. “We always start off with a kick-off assembly at the beginning of the year where
“The kids just love having them come in and they become part of the classroom and they become ‘our’ Rebel,” said Robertson. “Our kids look up to them as role models and they really aspire to be like them. The fact the Rebels come to our school is really a special, special opportunity for our kids.”
and Adam Musil visit her classroom. “I think it was really cool because we played math games with them and we went to music with them and we also did art with them,” she said. “My favourite part was that I got to actually talk with them. I look forward to the visits a lot.”
HELPING HAND - Trevor Martin of the Rebels took time to help Grade 3 student Megan Robinson at Annie L. Gaetz School with crafts during one of many Rebels’ school visits.
we have an opportunity to meet all of the Rebels as a group,” he said. “We have pucks that we line up and the players pick a puck and that is the classroom they get to spend time in. For the next five months they come once a month and spend the morning in that classroom with the kids.” Sometimes the players are involved in a Phys. Ed class with the kids, other times it’s math or reading - there are many activities they do.
photo by Kalisha Mendonsa
Grade 1 student Ethan Engelmann, 7, said Rebels’ goalie Rylan Toth was part of his classroom this past school year. “He read hockey books to us and we were doing science with him as well,” said Ethan. “It was really neat.” Grade 4 student Annika Erickson, 9, had Rebels Ivan Nikolishin, Michael Spacek
Grade 5 student Lynden Robertson, 11, has also enjoyed his time with Rebels players Colton Bobyk and Nelson Nogier. “It was a really neat experience because when they came they acted as if they were another student in our class,” he said. “I learned how to be a good leader and role model for younger students.”
In addition, Nogier said he has enjoyed his time in the classroom. “I love spending time with the kids. It’s just nice to be able to give back. I remember when I was younger, I had the (Saskatoon) Blades come into my school and I was starstruck to see those guys,” he said. “It just adds more fuel to the fire to get there one day, and now that I am there it feels great to be able to give back because I’ve been in those kids’ shoes before. “I try to relay the message to them to put everything they have into schooling. At the end of the day there’s always that to fall back on. If you’re in my shoes and have the dream of playing in the NHL, having good grades alongside that is like a onetwo punch. It’s right there to back you up if the doors to hockey close for whatever reason and you can always run through that.” Red Deer Rebel Haydn Fleury also takes seriously his role off the ice here in the local community. “I think we have a huge influence on the youth of this community,” he explained. “You always have to be watching what you are doing because there is always that one little kid at the mall or out and about who might recognize who you are. So you always have to hold yourself to a higher standard for sure.”
Look • Men’s • Kid’s • Foils • Perms
each season of the year!
• Ladies’ • Colours • Waxing • Extensions
Red D
Family F eer’s rie Hair Salondly n
Mon/Wed/Fri 9am – 6pm • Tues/Thurs 9am - 9pm • Sat 8am – 4pm
403.341.3333
#4 88 Howarth St. (Highland Green Plaza), Red Deer
www.sharperimagehairdesign.ca
May 18, 2016
Upgrade your RV incandescent bulbs to LED
Upgrade your RV incandescent bulbs to LED
RV • BOAT • DECK
RV • BOAT • DECK
Commercial Quality Lighting Strips and Accessories
More Light - Less Commercial Quality Lighting StripsEnergy and Accessories
Ph: 403-358-8878 More Light - Less Energy
Red Deer, AB
Look for us at Red upcoming Deer, AB these trade shows
www.technosolveinc.ca
Ph: 403-358-8878
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
21
• Calgary Boat & Sportsman Show Feb. 4-7, 2016 www.technosolveinc.ca • 40th Annual Red Deer RV Show & Sale Feb. 12-21, 2016 • Red Deer Sportsman Show Feb. 26-28, 2016
n o i t a r b e l e r e e H C s t r Sta The
Great Selection.
Better Prices.
Johnnie Walker Black Label
Silent Sam
$
750ml
$
1750ml
Naked Grape Chardonnay/Merlot Revolution Red Beringer Moscato/Cab Sauv
$
750ml
16.99 66.99 6.99
Canadian/Coors Light Bud Light/Budweiser
24 cans/30 sleek cans
$
37.99
*While quantities last. Prices do not include tax & deposit. Sale ends May 29, 2016.
#140, 6075 67A Street Red Deer, AB • 403.986.6820
www.aceliquor.ca
22
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
May 18, 2016
FLYIN’ HIGH - From left, Adam Musil of the Red Deer Rebels checked Taylor Sanheim of the Calgary Hitmen into the Rebels’ bench during a game last March.
HIGH EMOTION - From left, Red Deer Rebel Adam Helewka got into a scrum with Travis Sanheim of the Calgary Hitmen while linesmen Chris Carlson and Cody Huseby prepared to intervene during regular season play.
photos by Zachary Cormier
May 18, 2016
HERE WE GO - From left, Reese Johnson of the Red Deer Rebels tried to put the puck past sprawling Edmonton Oil Kings goalie Alec Dillon as defenceman Dysin Mayo tried to block him during the Rebels’ season opener last fall. 2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
23
COME & SEE US
FOR WHATEVER YOU & ARESEE IN THE COME US MOOD FOR. Whether it’s our fluffyYOU pancakes, crispy bacon, juicy FOR. burgers FOR WHATEVER ARE IN THE MOOD or something from our Fit Fare® Menu, you will always find Whether it’s our fluffy pancakes, crispy bacon, juicy burgers delicious value and variety at Denny’s. ® or something from our Fit Fare Menu, you will always find delicious value and variety at Denny’s.
OPEN OPEN
24 24 HOURS HOURS
BACON SLAMBURGER
BACON SLAMBURGER
2940 50th Avenue, Red Deer 403.348.5040 DENNYS.CA
2940 50th Avenue, Red Deer 403.348.5040 DENNYS.CA DC15214_Dennys_RedDeer_Ad.indd 1
DC15214_Dennys_RedDeer_Ad.indd 24 2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup1
2015-09-15 9:25 AM
2015-09-15 May 18, 2016 9:25 A
GRAND ENTRANCE - Red Deer Rebel Trevor Martin made his way down the tunnel ahead of a regular season matchup against the Calgary Hitmen.
photo by Zachary Cormier
Fire Alarms- Lighting- Residential /Commercial / Agricultural
O
ur staff of experienced employees provide our customers with superior service in a safe working environment. We value our relationships with our customers and as a team we work hard to complete all of our projects within our customer’s timeline and to their desired specifications. We accomplish this by providing prompt professional service by well trained and skillful trades people. Cunningham Electric provides a wide range of electrical maintenance and installation services. Feel free to contact us for a free estimate.
Proudly serving Red Deer & Central Alberta for 62 years!
Central Alberta’s Premium Property Management Firm
We find and screen tenants, manage & maintain your investment. 403.314.0099 www.hpman.ca #105, 4711 – 51 Ave. Red Deer, AB
#7,7880-48 Ave. Red Deer 403-342-4111 • cunnelec@telusplanet.net
www.cunninghamelectric.ca
May 18, 2016
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
25
26
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
May 18, 2016
CELEBRATION - Adam Helewka of the Red Deer Rebels celebrated a late goal on Cody Porter of the Calgary Hitmen during playoff action.
Dental Emergencies Custom Mouth Guards Open 7 Days A Week Evening Hours
photo by Zachary Cormier
Welcome
All Teams & Visitors! 2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
Stop in at either
s ’ B olly
3 Red Deer Locations Downtown Suite 280-5201 43 Street Deer Park #15, 69 Dunlop Street Gaetz Crossing 50A 5250-22 Street
403-770-6586
www.ImageDental.ca May 18, 2016
M
Lounge
2810 Bremner Avenue, Red Deer
GO REBELS!
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
27
Game Schedule
28
DATE
AWAY
HOME
TIME
May 20
OHL
Red Deer
6:00pm MDT
May 21
WHL
QMJHL
5:00pm MDT
May 22
Red Deer
QMJHL
5:00pm MDT
May 23
WHL
OHL
6:00pm MDT
May 24
QMJHL
OHL
6:00pm MDT
May 25
Red Deer
WHL
6:00pm MDT
May 26
TBD
TBD
6:00pm MDT
May 27
TBD
TBD
6:00pm MDT
May 29
TBD
TBD
TBA
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
May 18, 2016
(ages 18+)
Friday, May 20
Brett Kissel
Saturday, May 21
9 Second Ride
Sunday, May 22
Kelly Taylor(Comedian) & The Mud Men Monday, May 23
Kelly Taylor(Comedian) & Hockey Hall of Fame Member Bryan Trottier Tuesday, May 24
Medisinal
Wednesday, May 25
St. James’ Gate
Thursday, May 26
Bradley Abel Band & Clayton Bellamy Band (Cover charge applies) Friday, May 27
West of the Fifth Saturday, May 28
See Alice & Finger 11 (Cover charge applies) Sunday, May 29
Randi Boulton Band May 18, 2016
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
29
Second lo cation opening Summer 2016 South Re d Deer w ith 4 new an d exciting themed r ooms!
s Room e p Esca Deer Red
BOOK online at
www.lockdownreddeer.ca • 50 minutes • Teams of 2-6 people • Choose your theme room • Fun & interactive • Escape through a series of logic puzzles and various locks • Large group booking rates available
403-986-4836 | 4836 51 Streeet, Red Deer | info@lockdownreddeer.ca Mon - Thurs: 4pm - 10pm | Fri: 12pm - midnight | Sat: 11am - midnight | Sun: 11am - 6pm
30
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
May 18, 2016
What it takes
to be a
Rebel
By Kalisha Mendonsa It takes more than skills on the ice to be a Red Deer Rebel; it also takes dedication to education, endurance training and a commitment to a healthy lifestyle. Assistant Coach Steve O’Rourke explained one of the biggest components to the young men being able to stay on the team is that they stay committed to their education. All Western Hockey League players miss school days for road trips and tournaments, but are still expected to put work into their studies. “We come off the road and get in anywhere from midnight to sometimes five or six in the morning. These kids are required to sleep on the bus, get up and get to class,” O’Rourke said. “They might have already missed a week, or eight or nine days on a trip. They’re required to show up and appear in school. The teachers are really lenient with our guys, and they work hard with the kids to get them caught up. The guys are expected to give back that effort and make sure they’re at school, even when we come in late.” O’Rourke explained the coaches - and players - are aware of the statistics as to how many WHL players go pro. He said the guys are expected to maintain grades that would allow them a postsecondary education if they don’t get drafted. The WHL also has a program where they will reimburse the costs of college or university courses, and will help to cover the costs when a player chooses to attend. “A lot of us, including myself, come into the league with the dream of going pro. That said, at the end of the day, you have to prepare May 18, 2016
yourself to learn the right habits and set yourself up to go to school and get a career if hockey doesn’t work out,” he said. “We do study halls on the road, and the younger guys, 16 and 17, have to do their study halls. They’re required to open their books up on the bus or in their rooms on the road. There are consequences to not keeping up with your school work - Brent (Sutter) is very clear about that.” O’Rourke said the consequences to not maintaining grades include an imposed curfew and eventually players being benched for games if they aren’t picking up the slack. He said he’s also very grateful for Lisa Robertson and Jim Bolding for all their assistance in maintaining grades and good communication with parents regarding the Rebels’ academic statuses. As for other team conditions, the WHL has strict guidelines against drug use and it’s no different for the Rebels. Luckily, O’Rourke said that hasn’t been an issue for the Rebels. He said in his time with the team, there has never been a positive test although some have been administered. “Within the league, we have drug testing policies. The thing is, we’re on these guys on a daily basis. We’re with them almost all the time, and we have a sports psychologist within our hockey club. He’s here a fair amount and helps to pick up on guys getting into trouble with drugs or alcohol. Lots of times, that stuff is related to home issues and other things that we try to be aware of, to catch it before it happens or ever becomes a problem. “They come here usually on the right path but if not, we’re here to get them on the right path.”
* Live Entertainment * * Daily Specials * * Weekend Brunch * * Group Bookings Welcome *
you have to taste it to believe it!
Mon - Thurs: 11aM - 11pm Fri - Sat: 11am - Midnight Sundays: Noon - 10pm
Good Luck Rebels!
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
31
Let’s Make History!
Westerner Park is a proud sponsor and host of the 2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup! For 125 years Westerner Park has been the place where Central Albertans come together to celebrate in their most memorable moments. Join us May 19 - 29 and Let’s Make History!
32
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
May 18, 2016
GAME ON - Head Coach and General Manager Brent Sutter reacts after a play during a recent home game.
photo by Zachary Cormier
The more you bank, the more you get. When you bank with Servus, you get a share of the profits. Ask us how. 1.877.378.8728 | servus.ca May 18, 2016
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
33
SHOOT, SCORE
AND WIN BIG
RED DEER
MaxWell Realty welcomes the 2016 Memorial Cup to Red Deer! 403.346.7755
MaxWell Real Estate Solutions Ltd. 34
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
MaxWellRealtyRedDeer.ca Your local Real Estate specialists May 18, 2016
Red Deer’s Memorial Cup
run at hosting the
“We felt that it was time that a major event was held back in this area. The City has certainly done a great job and has gotten behind big events that have come into the City and has done an outstanding job of helping and making them first class events” - Brent Sutter
By Zachary Cormier Brent Sutter wasn’t surprised when the Western Hockey League announced on Oct. 8th, 2014 that the Red Deer Rebels would be the hosts of the 2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup. “This was the right time. It was the right fit for everything,” said the longtime Rebels’ owner of the bid. The Rebels were one of two WHL clubs that submitted bids to host the event. “We were competing against Vancouver and Vancouver finished last in their conference (that season) so obviously, from a hockey side of it, they weren’t ready for it. We also know that they hosted it in ‘07. The fact that it hadn’t been hosted in Alberta since 1974, it hadn’t ever been hosted in Red Deer and Vancouver had had it nine years earlier - we thought we were in good position as long as our hockey team was in the right spot,” Sutter said. It turns out the league agreed with that sentiment and, following a majority vote by the WHL Board of Governors, Red Deer was awarded the 2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup. “We felt that it was time that a major event was held back in this area. The City has certainly done a great job and has gotten May 18, 2016
behind big events that have come into the City and has done an outstanding job of helping and making them first class events,” Sutter said, referring to events such as the 1995 World Junior Championships, the 2004 and 2012 Scotties Tournament of Hearts and Game 7 of the 2007 Super Series - all of which were held at the ENMAX Centrium over the years. “Coming back to a smaller market, it will be the event in the City, it will be the event in Central Alberta. It’s going to be supported very, very well for every game being played.” The movement back to a smaller market like Red Deer as opposed to a bigger city like Calgary or Edmonton made sense to the WHL as well. “We felt that by Red Deer hosting that we’re moving back to our traditional markets, away from maybe larger markets in recent years. That, I think, speaks volumes to our commitment to all of our markets,” said WHL Commissioner Ron Robison. It wasn’t the first time the Rebels have submitted a bid to host the nation’s biggest junior hockey tournament as they submitted bids to
host both the 2001 and 2013 events, which ended up being held in Regina and Saskatoon respectively. “The first time we did it, it was my first year as owner. I wasn’t really expecting it and yet we put our bid in to see what would happen,” Sutter said of the bid for 2001, adding at the time he wasn’t sure of the team yet, but thought the organization deserved it. “I thought the organization deserved it and I thought the City deserved to at least put the bid in and see what could happen.” The Rebels went on to win that Memorial Cup in Regina. The 2013 bid, on the other hand, was much more deliberate. At the time, Westerner Park had just completed a major expansion to the ENMAX Centrium, adding
1,000 seats, 13 luxury suites and 40 seat club suites to the 5,000 seat home of the Rebels, turning it into a facility that could very easily host a national sporting event. Despite that, though, the organization knew they would be in tough to win the bid for the tournament. “We put our bid in but we knew that Saskatoon was going to come in with some big dollars and we couldn’t compete with that,” Sutter said. Preparations for the 2016 tournament have been underway for almost a year and a half now and Sutter said the organization is excited for the kick-off. “With (Rebels’ Senior VP) Merrick Sutter and (local businessman) Ron LaRiviere being the chair people, there’s a lot of work put in it. It’s just going to get closer and closer every day and then it’s put into action. There’s a lot of excitement, everyone’s excited about it.”
Residential
Commercial
•Air Conditioning •Heating •Hot water tanks •Indoor air quality •Residential plumbing
•HVAC •Refrigeration •Restaurant equipment •Commercial plumbing
403-342-1155 125 Clearwille Ave, Red Deer County,
AB, T4E 0A1
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
35
Mental development “There are for sure challenges, just like a home Olympics in Vancouver or a Hockey Canada event. There are advantages and there are challenges. But the coaches, and Brent and the staff in Red Deer have had a plan for a long time to be able to get the best out of us and get us to focus on each step - one step at a time, one game at a time.” - Derek Robinson By Mark Weber There’s more to being a successful athlete - and a successful team - than just being in top physical condition. For the Red Deer Rebels, maintaining a healthy and positive mindset is key to top performance on the ice as well. Calgary-based Derek Robinson, who is a registered psychologist, works as the mental development coach for the Rebels, and said that his role is to support the players, coaches, staff and the team. “I’ve been working in sports psychology and mental performance in Calgary since 2001,” he explained. “It’s something that is part of my philosophy as well - to support what the coach’s message and what the coach’s vision for the team are. In Red Deer, it’s my sixth year and it’s been about understanding and learning the Rebels’ way, and how it’s done. “It’s such a professional organization, and it’s also about balancing the performance side with the personal side of human performance. It’s about winning, and also about
36
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
supporting good people. “We have a structure and an identity that we play to, and the right habits and the focus on the process affects that,” he said, adding that his time with the team includes both group talks and one-on-one sessions as well. “I can really help facilitate how they are learning and how the players are perceiving the coach’s message and instruction - how to play the right way, how to respond the right way, how to prepare and get ready. I’ll bring some of my expertise with psychology and mental performance and where I’ve been with all the other sports that I’ve worked with. But really, it’s about asking the right questions and about using the coach’s language so that the players’ learning is supported.” Originally from B.C., Robinson is also a mental performance consultant with the Canadian Sport Institute in Calgary, and has worked with the organization since 2003. He’s worked with athletes through the three winter Olympic Games since that time as well as with Hockey Canada.
May 18, 2016
coach plays key role
According to the Institute’s web site, “The mental performance team is vital to an athlete’s training program. By learning mental discipline and being able to visualize positive outcomes, athletes are able to attain peak performance on a consistent basis.” And while Robinson is passionate about lending his range of skills, experience and expertise on an international level, he is just as committed to working with teams and athletes closer to home. “I love being a part of Red Deer, just in the way the organization is run. I’ve learned a tremendous amount from Brent Sutter, Jesse Wallin, Jeff Truitt, Steve O’Rourke - they are good people to be around.” Looking back, Robinson had an early interest in sports, playing in the B.C. Junior Hockey League. “I always loved sports growing up,” he said, adding he later went to the University of Lethbridge and played there as well. He also had a strong interest in psychology. “But I never thought I would be a psychologist because I viewed myself as a hockey player,” he added. But as he learned more about the discipline, he found that sports psychology was in fact well-suited to his skill-set and goals in terms of a career. He recalls being on the bus during his junior hockey days, and reading psychology books for fun. After completing his studies in psychology, he delved right into working in the field. He described the field as having of course the extensive educational and academic side and the applied perspective.
Having experience as a hockey player and an athlete himself has also helped him with his practice today. “You also have the clinical piece which is not only about the mental toughness and the mental health that comes with sport but also the human aspects of mental health as well - so people can handle pressure and you can support them through it,” he said. Part of Robinson’s work involves helping individuals work through and let go of mistakes, or to correct those mistakes, “So that they just continually get better. “The best athletes can be hard on themselves and are also really hungry to win.” Through all the ups and downs, the focus should be on continual improvement. “The number one thing that affects people is people,” he said. “And so relationships, communication and understanding their teammates and coaches, and being able to really work together. “The only way at the elite level to win is as a team.” As for the 2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup, Robinson said the team and the staff have been carefully preparing for this landmark event. “It’s such a privilege for these players,” he said. “It really makes it fun, and it’s something that is exciting. “There are for sure challenges, just like a home Olympics in Vancouver or a Hockey Canada event. There are advantages and there are challenges. But the coaches, and Brent and the staff in Red Deer have had a plan for a long time to be able to get the best out of us and get us to focus on each step - one step at a time, one game at a time.”
HERE WE GO - From left, Luke Bertolucci of the Edmonton Oil Kings attempts to fire a shot past Rylan Toth of the Red Deer Rebels while Colton Kehler of the Oil Kings tries to screen during the Rebels’ season opener at the Centrium earlier last fall. photo by Zachary Cormier May 18, 2016
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
37
The
Red Deer By Zachary Cormier
Rebels
Hockey fans in Central Alberta were not surprised when the Western Hockey League officially announced in 1991 that brothers Terry and Wayne Simpson would be the owners of a brand new expansion team based in Red Deer. “There had been talk for years that Red Deer was going to get a Western Hockey League team, but whenever you talked to (former WHL President) Ed Chynoweth about it, he said ‘Well that probably would be the case once they get a b u i l d i n g ,” remembered G r e g Meachem. Meachem, who now works as a staff writer for the Rebels, was the former sports editor at the Red Deer Advocate and has been covering the Rebels since day one. Prior to the WHL’s expansion into Red Deer, the biggest hockey team in the City had been the Junior A Red Deer Rustlers, who competed in the Alberta Junior Hockey League. The Rustlers were one of the best teams in the history of the AJHL. Playing out of the old 2,500 seat Red Deer Arena, they captured eight league titles between 1970 and 1989, when they left the league. While the Rustlers were an entertaining team to watch, by the late ’80s hockey fans in Central Alberta, and Red Deer specifically, wanted more. They knew the City would be able to support a WHL franchise. After all, much smaller cities such as Swift Current and Moose Jaw already had thriving franchises of their own. So when the provincial government announced in 1989 they would help fund the construction of a new building in the City, they knew they would get their wish. When the 6,000 seat ENMAX Centrium was completed in 1991, it was only a matter of time before the announcement would come.
38
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
And when it did, the people of Red Deer responded. “It was big right from the start. They were packing the place in the early years, for sure,” Meachem said. The new franchise held a ‘name the team’ contest, eventually settling on the Red Deer Rebels. The Rebels took up residence in the Centrium in 1991 and began preparations for what would be their inaugural season in 1992. On Feb. 5th, 1992, Mike McBain became the first player the team selected in the WHL Bantam Draft and on Sept. 25th that year, the puck officially dropped on their first regular season game, a 6-3 victory over the Prince Albert Raiders in front of 5,240 excited fans. The club made their first playoff appearance later that same year under the direction of their head coach, former Red Deer Rustler Peter Anholt and General Manager Wayne Simpson. “Terry (Simpson) was still coaching in the NHL at the time. So he kept his NHL job and Wayne stayed and was the general manager,” Meachem said. The Rebs managed to qualify for the playoffs in each of their first two seasons, but were eliminated in the first round both times. The next season saw a slight drop in production for the team, who finished with just a 17-51-4 record. In 1997, the Rebels had their most successful season of the Simpson era, reaching the Eastern Conference Championship under Head Coach Rick Carriere before being eliminated in six games by the Lethbridge Hurricanes. Two years and two early playoff exits later Brent Sutter purchased the team and took over as head coach and general manager in 1999. “The team was quite a bit better within a year or two of him coming here, so that pretty much told the story right there,” Meachem said of Sutter’s arrival.
May 18, 2016
have a long
history of success After yet another early playoff exit at the hands of the Kootenay Ice, the eventual WHL champions, in 1999-2000, a breakthrough finally came and in 2000-2001, Sutter guided the Rebels all the way to a WHL and Memorial Cup championship, setting franchise records for wins and total points which still stand to this day. “It didn’t take him long,” Meachem said.
growth and development of the franchise. Following the Memorial Cup run in 2001, Sutter led the team to two straight WHL championship series, falling both times. Although the team hasn’t quite captured that same success since, they have still earned a reputation for developing young talent.
“The team was quite a bit better within a year or two of him (Brent Sutter) coming here, so that pretty much told the story right there.” - Greg Meachem Of course, Sutter doesn’t take all of the credit for the win. “As an owner, my family inherited a good mixture of players - some really good young talent that Wayne Simpson and his scouting staff did a great job putting together. “Now it was just trying to mould them and develop them and that’s what we did from an organizational standpoint,” Sutter said. His influence, though, has played a huge role in the
Red Deer’s premier Cocktail Lounge located just minutes away from the game in downtown Red Deer. May 18, 2016
The Rebels have had at least one player taken in the NHL Entry Draft for every year of their history, including former first overall draft pick Ryan Nugent-Hopkins in 2011. Other Rebels alumni include all-star defenseman Dion Phaneuf and former Conn Smythe Trophy winner Cam Ward. Hopes are high for this year’s team as they prepare to take to the ice for the 2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup. Only time will tell if they’ll be able to answer the call.
FOR RESERVATIONS PLEASE CALL AHEAD (403) 986-8080
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
39
Gasoline Alley Location
#108, 129 Leva Avenue Red Deer County, AB
TEL: (403) 348-9313 reddeer2@choppedleaf.ca
Clearview Ridge Location
#120, 31 Clearview Market Way Red Deer, AB
TEL: (403) 348-5323 reddeer@choppedleaf.ca
For full store listing please visit choppedleaf.ca/#locations For Franchise info please call 1-800-555-5726 x 255 or email us at info@choppedleaf.ca
2 OFF any Salad or Wrap
$
Not valid with any other discount or promotional offer. Limit 1 coupon per person per visit. No cash value. Taxes extra. Valid at Red Deer Gasoline Alley or Clearview Market locations only. Expires: July 31, 2016
40
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
May 18, 2016
Nelson Nogier
enjoying all that
Rebels have to offer By Erin Fawcett
photo by Zachary Cormier
Hockey is in Red Deer Rebel Nelson Nogier’s blood and there is no doubt in his mind that he hopes to make it a career. The Saskatoon native has played for the Rebels since the end of December 2014. He previously played for the Saskatoon Blades from 2011-2014. “I started (playing hockey) at an extremely young age maybe three or four years old. I come from a pretty hockeyoriented family - my dad played in the WHL as well - he was a goaltender with Swift Current and Kamloops,” said Nogier, 19. “As soon as he could get me into a pair of skates, he did. We had a backyard rink that he built every year - lots of memories of skating on that for sure.” Growing up, Nogier, who has been drafted to the Winnipeg Jets, said his family balanced hockey and school life. “The majority of my childhood memories are definitely of times spent at the rink and out in the backyard rink with mom and dad and my sister.” With his dad having firsthand experience in the hockey world, Nogier said he has been a mentor and his biggest May 18, 2016
cheerleader. “He played all those roles. He’s always been behind me every single step of the way and he’s always been my support system that I have been able to lean on when there’s been rough times during the more stressful years of my hockey career and as that continues to go on, he’s always there for me.” Before joining the Rebels in December 2014, Nogier was lucky enough to play at home. The move and being away from his biggest supporters has been a transition. “It was new - obviously I knew that was something that was going to come at some point in my life. I was fortunate enough that I was able to play at home during my 16, 17 and half of my 18-year-old years. You look at the rest of the WHL and most of those kids have to move away when they are 16 - I got the benefit of playing for my hometown team.” Nogier, who off the ice is also tackling a college calculus class, said his experience in Red Deer has been a positive one. “The billets I have here are just awesome and they welcomed me with open arms and made the transition really smooth,” he said. Continued on page 42 2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
41
Continued from page 41
Nelson Nogier “Hats off to Brent Sutter (head coach). He runs a very professional room here and he does a good job in every area. There is such a professional standard. Brent runs this like a pro team. “I’ve had a taste of what pro hockey is like and coming back here - Brent’s got this running top notch. It makes it pretty easy to come to the rink every morning and want to get better and hopefully get to that next level. I know that playing for a coach like Brent in an organization like Red Deer has here, it’s just going to make that transition
“It’s a grind - it’s a long year - 72 games plus playoffs,” he said. “At the end of the day it’s your passion and your love to be coming to the rink every day - that is what drives you. At the same time there’s 24 other guys in the room there and maybe when you are having one of those down days, that’s what they are there for. It’s that team mentality. We help each other pull through those days like that.” As for the 2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup, this will be Nogier’s second time being part of the host community as Saskatoon hosted it in 2013 when Nogier was part of the Saskatoon Blades.
player. Just having the exposure amongst all those scouts, the fans and the crowd and the atmosphere of playing in a championship like that. “It is a lot more exciting this year with me being 19-years-old and older, more mature and having a bigger role on the team. “We’re hoping to have a successful run at it. ”Nogier said he is looking forward to the excitement the Memorial Cup will bring to home ice. “Having that home ice advantage for every game is going to be huge. Hats off to the fans for coming out every night. It makes it a lot easier to play and the atmosphere is a lot better and there is more energy,” he said. “It’s the
“It’s the excitement and the atmosphere - you’ll never forget stepping on the ice for your first shift in front of a full house with everyone cheering. It just gets your senses tingling - it’s so exciting.” - Nelson Nogier smoother if you can eventually get there.” In addition, as the Rebels have a gruelling season schedule, Nogier said it’s important to be focused.
“It is pretty special. This is my second run at it,” he said. “When I was 16 it was a huge eye-opener. Being a young guy I didn’t play much because I didn’t play that big of a role being a younger
excitement and the atmosphere - you’ll never forget stepping on the ice for your first shift in front of a full house. It just gets your senses tingling - it’s so exciting.”
• The Spirit of the 1920’s is Alive at •
The Most Live Entertainment in Town! Delicious Homestyle Food | Fine Crafted Cocktails Daily Specials
frattersspeakeasy
/fratters
@FrattersVenue
Open Tuesday-Sunday Serving Lunch Visit www.fratters.com or call 403.356.0033 for Opening Hours and Upcoming Shows.
42
5114 48th Street in the heart of Downtown Red Deer or contact us at 403.356.0033 or www.fratters.com or info@fratters.com
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
May 18, 2016
Nelson Nogier
May 18, 2016
photo by Zachary Cormier
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
43
Wherever you go... Whatever your sport... let us take you there.
Good luck Rebels on your quest for the
2016 Memorial Cup!
Go ! s l e Reb Gasoline Alley, Red Deer • 403.343.3736 • 1.800.662.7166 • www.reddeertoyota.com 44
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
May 18, 2016
May 18, 2016
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
45
$1000.00
off any hot water pressure washer!
Get ready for spring!
• Wa t e r P u m p s •Honda Engines •Submersible Pumps •Sweepers & S h o p Va c s • Tr a s h P u m p s •Samson Grease Guns Parts Wa s h e r s
Natural Natural gas gas stationary stationary pressure washers pressure washers 3.5GPM 3.5GPM –– 9.2GPM 9.2GPM 2000PSI – 3200PSI
HDS40/204MEA HDS40/204MEA 4.OGPM 4.OGPM @ @ 2000PSI 2000PSI 1/230VOLT 1/230VOLT HOT WATER
HDS1.7/12UED HDS1.7/12UED 110 110 VOLT VOLT AMAZING AMAZING 12.8 12.8 AMPS AMPS 1/120VOLT HOT WATER
Free detergent w/ purchase!
In stock & priced to sell!
INDUSTRY LEADING
7 7 YEAR YEAR PUMP PUMP WARRANTY WARRANTY THE THE ONLY ONLY PRESSURE PRESSURE WASHER WASHER WITH WITH A A LIFETIME WARRANTY ON THE COIL LIFETIME WARRANTY ON THE COIL Red Deer Red HeadDeer Office
Leduc & Nisku Leduc & Nisku p. 780.980.9294
Brandon, MB Brandon, MB p. 204.728.9303
p. 403.347.9770
Calgary Calgary p. 403.263.7207
Burnaby BC Burnaby BC 2188 p. 604 434
Head Office p. 403.347.9770 Edmonton Edmonton p. 780.430.9359
p. 780.430.9359
p. 780.980.9294 p. 403.263.7207 Grande Prairie p. 780.539.9939 Grande Prairie
p. 780.539.9939
ON SALE NOW!
p. 204.728.9303 p. 604 434 2188 Saskatoon, SK p. 306.242.6622 Saskatoon, SK
p. 306.242.6622
CALL TOLL FREE 1.888.430.9359 CALL TOLL FREE 1.888.430.9359 TOLL w ur m www.CALL p uw m p sw aFREE n. dpp1.888.430.9359 e sp s uarne d . cpo rme s s u r e . c o m see our website for promotion details
46
www. pseeu our m pwebsite s a n for d ppromotion r e s s udetails re.com 2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup see our website for promotion details
May 18, 2016
HIGH FIVES - Nelson Nogier of the Red Deer Rebels high fives fans while walking to the Rebels’ dressing room after a home win earlier this season. photo by Zachary Cormier
Only one company was trusted to install the carpeted logo in the dressing room. Don’t worry. We left a loonie in the underlay. Go Rebels!
Only One company was trusted to install the logo in the Rebels’ dressing room.
Go els! Reb CARPET COLOUR CENTRE CARPET COLOUR CENTRE CARPET COLOUR CENTRE
SOUTHPOINTE COMMON II
•
403-343-7711
•
carpetcolourcentre.com
MONDAY - FRIDAY 9AM - 5:30PM • THURSDAY 9AM - 8PM • SATURDAY 9AM - 5PM • CLOSED SUNDAY
May 18, 2016
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
47
48
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
May 18, 2016
A look back at the roots of the
Memorial Cup
“The trophy was originally known as the OHA Memorial Cup and was donated by the Ontario Hockey Association in March, 1919, in remembrance of the many soldiers who paid the supreme sacrifice for Canada in the First World War. In 2010 the Memorial Cup was rededicated to the memory of all fallen Canadian Military Personnel.” - www.mastercmemorialcup.card
By Mark Weber With the highly-anticipated 2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup about to kick off, it’s fascinating to take a look back to the early days of the prestigious event’s beginnings. According to www.mastercardmemorialcup.ca, the Memorial Cup, one of the most coveted trophies in North American sport, has a rich tradition that has shaped the way junior hockey is played in North America. “The trophy was originally known as the OHA Memorial Cup and was donated by the Ontario Hockey Association in March, 1919, in remembrance of the many soldiers who paid the supreme sacrifice for Canada in the First World War. In 2010 the Memorial Cup was rededicated to the memory of all fallen Canadian Military Personnel.” Initially the Cup was awarded to the national junior hockey champions of Canada. Later on it came to signify Junior ‘A’ hockey supremacy when in 1934, junior hockey in Canada was divided into ‘A’ and ‘B’ classes. As noted on the web site, in 1971, when junior ‘A’ hockey was divided into major junior and Tier 11 junior A, the Memorial Cup was awarded to the higher category and was given to the major junior hockey champions of Canada. In 1972, a round-robin tournament format replaced the old playdown system to determine the champions. “Since then, the champions of the Western Hockey League, the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League and May 18, 2016
the Ontario Hockey League, have met each spring in a round-robin series with the two top teams playing off in a sudden-death game to determine the Cup champions.” According to the web site, the Memorial Cup became an international trophy in 1983 as the tournament was held outside Canada for the first time, when the Portland Memorial Coliseum was the host arena. As noted in the book The Memorial Cup - Canada’s National Junior Hockey Championship by Richard M. Lapp and Alex Macaulay, there were differences in the game overall as compared to how things are today. “Some teams, like the Regina Patricias, (now the ‘Pats’) were as familiar to the hockey fan of the (1920s) as they are today. Others, including the Toronto Canoe Club Paddlers, the Fort William War Veterans, and the University of Manitoba Varsity - all champions in the Memorial Cup’s first decade reflected an amateur game that was based on grassroots and collegiate foundations. “However, some things haven’t changed. Just as a spectator at the 1990 Memorial Cup could catch a glimpse of ‘The Next One,’ Eric Lindros, fans in the ’20s were introduced to future pro stars like Charlie Conacher and Howie Morenz in Memorial Cup competition. “Many junior players graduated to the expanding professional ranks.” Indeed, “…Canadian fans in the ’20s displayed the same emotions and rivalries that the Memorial Cup tournament continues to stir up today. “Then, as now, junior hockey teams carried their fans’ sentiments onto the ice and into hard-fought games.” 2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
49
please drink responsibly
50
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
May 18, 2016
fans on hockey club
Long-time
reflect By Zachary Cormier
“He’s intense, you know? He has the every single game because of the As soon as Bruce Heroux and Eugene passion for the game and his players various time restraints of running a Andres heard that Red Deer would be respect the game. He gets a lot out business, they do their best to keep up with the team by listening to Cam getting a Western Hockey League team, of them.” Of course, they also vividly remember Moon call the games on the radio and they knew they wanted to be a part of it. over the Internet. “We talked about it right away,” the 2001 Memorial Cup season. “We didn’t go to the games in Regina, “I’ve been in Australia and the States Heroux remembered. The long-time business partners and but I watched them on TV. That last and all over the place listening to them,” owners of The Communications Group game, that was something else. Winning Andres said. When they can’t make it to games, have been season ticket holders and it in overtime,” Heroux said. “There’s been a lot of good memories. Some of they give their employees a chance to corporate sponsors get out and see the team. of the Rebels since the And with the 2016 club’s second season MasterCard Memorial Cup in the WHL, 23 years beginning, both Heroux ago. They were also and Andres are excited regulars at the rink to see some really high during the Rebels’ first quality hockey. season back in 1992, “That’s good hockey, though they didn’t boy,” Heroux said. “I have season tickets remember the World at the time. Juniors when we held them “They were filled here. That was such great up with sponsors hockey. We got spoiled.” that first year, was the Having watched the problem,” Andres said, current Rebels, Heroux adding they managed said he’s excited to see to get on board during how they fare going the second season forward. back in 1993. At the “We’ve had little roller time, their company From left, Bruce Heroux coaster rides but we’re was just a year old. photo by Zachary Cormier back there again.” Sitting in the and Eugene Andres. The two businessmen stands at a quiet and empty ENMAX Centrium one Monday the games when we had some really said they’ve really enjoyed spending afternoon, the pair re-lived some of their good teams back in the 2000-2003 era, their time at the rink over the years. “To have functions in the City here, favourite memories from the Rebels’ it was exciting hockey.” Throughout their years as season it’s few and far between. tenure in town. “That’s probably something that “It’s always been good hockey,” ticket holders, Andres and Heroux have been able to see some incredible makes it so enjoyable. It’s something Heroux said. “It’s a big plus to Red Deer to have players don the Rebels uniforms, from to look forward to, without having to a WHL team here and be able to take Dion Phaneuf to Cam Ward to Ryan go to Calgary and Edmonton,” Andres your grandkids and come to a game Nugent-Hopkins. Andres was hard said, adding that the team is a source of local pride for many. and not blow all that money on an NHL pressed to pick a favourite. “There’s been so many of them that “(Red Deer native) Ron (MacLean), game. It’s exciting.” While Andres has moved his seats come and go,” he said, mentioning he throws it in all the time, whenever around the arena a couple of times names like Martin Erat and Kyle Wanvig he has a chance, the Rebels,” Andres throughout the years, Heroux has stayed as exciting to watch for various reasons. laughed. “He can’t do it too often or Heroux, on the other hand, has his too much but you watch him, whenever in the exact same spot in the lower bowl. mind pretty much made up when it he has the opportunity.” From those spots, the pair have It’s been a long and wild ride and witnessed the ups and downs that are comes to his favourite player - Andrew inherent in junior hockey, including the Bergen, whose jersey he proudly wears when the puck finally drops on the Memorial Cup tournament, Heroux birth of the team and the arrival of Brent on game nights. “He was one of my favourite players. and Andres will be right there, Rebels Sutter as the owner of the franchise. jerseys on their backs, cheering on “We like watching him,” Heroux He played hard all the time.” While neither of them can make their team. laughed. May 18, 2016
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
51
Luke Philp
making the most of his time in Red Deer
By Zachary Cormier Luke Philp wasn’t surprised when he was traded. “The GM in Kootenay, Jeff Chynoweth, and me had met a lot of times at the start of the season and he told me he was going to try and trade me. It made the most sense for both of us,” said the 20-year-old captain of the Red Deer Rebels of the move that sent him from the club that drafted him to Red Deer. Philp, who is in his final WHL season, was acquired by the Rebels at the 2016 WHL Trade Deadline in a deal with the Kootenay Ice which sent 20-year-old Presten Kopeck, 17-year-old Ryan Pouliot and prospect Tanner Sidaway out west in exchange for the veteran leader. At the time of the trade, Philp was out with an ankle injury sustained in mid-November, which kept him out of action for nearly three months. “It’s tough. I’ve never gone through something like that during a season where you miss that amount of time. It’s frustrating because during the injury I had a few setbacks where I thought I would be back doing things sooner than what happened, so it took a little bit more time than I
thought,” said the Canmore native, who returned to action in February. Three games later, on a tough B.C. road trip, Rebels’ Head Coach and General Manager Brent Sutter named Philp team captain. “We’ve played against him enough and seen his leadership. He’s been in tough series and playoffs. He’s someone that’s very well respected inside your dressing room. He’s a reflection of the coaching staff in the way he plays the game and it’s pretty evident how he plays with his work ethic,” Sutter said of Philp. “Our team went through some struggles on a road trip. We had lost five in a row. He told me when I got here that he expected me to have a leadership role on this team. Just after breakfast one morning he told me while we were on the road that he’s naming me captain and we’ve got to get this ship moving in the right direction,” Philp recalled. The centre filled a void left by former captain Wyatt Johnson after Johnson was dealt to Spokane earlier in the season. “It’s a little different, at first, coming to a new team and Continued on page 54
Our home is your home...
Spacious Guest Rooms, Executive & Jacuzzi Suites Complimentary High Speed Internet • Restaurant • Lounge • Room Service Swimming Pool • Hot Tub • Steam Room • Fitness Centre • Games Room Catering • Beautiful Banquet, Ballrooms & Meeting Rooms Radisson Red Deer 6500 - 67 Street, Red Deer, AB Tel: 403-342-6567 | Toll Free: 1-800-661-4961 radissonreddeer.com 52
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
May 18, 2016
“It’s a little different, at first, coming to a new team and getting named captain. But the guys were really good and there’s a lot of really good leadership on this team that’s helping, so I feel good. - Luke Philp
photo by Zachary Cormier
For
WORK
or
play,
we are just a quick drive away.
Family Owned & Operated
New • Preowned • Parts • Sales • Service
5640 Hwy 2A, Lacombe, AB • 403.782.3626 • www.weidnermotors.ca May 18, 2016
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
53
Continued from page 52
Luke Philp getting named captain. But the guys were really good and there’s a lot of really good leadership on this team that’s helping, so I feel good. “It was an honour to be named captain.” Philp’s hockey career began in his hometown of Canmore at an early age. “My dad played hockey and I just always wanted to learn to skate. I was always playing on outdoor rinks. My older brother got into it and I just wanted to follow suit and I’ve loved it ever since I started playing,” Philp remembered.
the Alberta Minor Midget Hockey League playing out of Strathmore and the Canmore Eagles of the Alberta Junior Hockey League before finally joining the Ice for the latter half of the 2011-12 season. “It’s different, I guess. Back then you’d go to school all day and then you’d have to drive to practice, an hour or whatever it was. It would be an all night kind of thing. Now you’re in the town where you practice but you’re away from home and you’re on the bus a lot,” said Philp of how his experience in the WHL compares to those early days. Since returning from injury, Philp has played a key role in the Rebels’ lineup. In 17 regular season games with the team this year he scored eight goals and eight assists for 16 points, an impressive scoring rate to say the least.
“He’s a 200-foot player.”
n
Playing competitive hockey growing up wasn’t easy for Philp. Because of Canmore’s size and location, he had to travel a lot just to play at a higher level. According to Eliteprospects.com, Philp played Bantam AA in Cochrane, an hour’s drive from Canmore and Bantam AAA in Airdrie, an hour and 20 minutes away. “I had to travel once I got to PeeWee age, so it was a lot of driving for sure.” Philp was taken in the third round, 59th overall by the Kootenay Ice in the 2010 WHL Bantam Draft. After being drafted, Philp spent a season and a half developing his skills with the Midget AAA UFA Bisons of
- Brent Sutter
The speedy forward said he prefers to think of himself more as a two-way centreman who can score goals and play on the power play, but also play well on the penalty kill and in his own end. “Anyone nowadays, I think you have to be able to play in your own end of the ice as well as the offensive zone and I think I’ve gotten much better at playing in the D-zone the last couple of years,” he said. “He’s a 200-foot player,” Sutter added. With the 2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup tournament, Philp said he is excited to test his skills against the best players in junior hockey. “It’ll be fun, I think. It’ll be something different.”
Only twO blOcks west frOm the centrium!
STEAK SANDWICH SPECIAL $14.95 MON-FRI • 11:30 AM - 2:00 PM
Daycare for Adults 403-352-4420 • Unit 129 2004 50th Avenue Red Deer AB T4R 3A2 54
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
May 18, 2016
Experience the Krest Difference Krest Homes is building spec and custom homes throughout Central Alberta. Â Learn more about their unparalleled quality, state-of-theart design, exceptional value, and desirable communities online.
SALES@KRESTHOMES.CA
With a proven and extraordinary ability to develop relationships from retail to oil and gas and land developers, the KLRT Commercial Team intends to bring a new level of award winning service within Western Canada Commercial Real Estate
403.343.0050
SALES
KRESTHOMES.CA
FOR LEASE
INVESTMENT
104, 37 Beju Industrial Drive, Sylvan Lake 403.887.1237 www.klrtcommercial.com
Your Friends & Real Estate Consultants For Life Email
info@lapprealty.ca
Red Deer
403-755-8677
Sylvan Lake 403-887-1237
www.lapprealty.ca May 18, 2016
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
55
Convenient hours to serve you better.* We’re part of your community and it is our privilege to serve you better. Our friendly staff is here to help, serving your needs with a complete range of personal and small business banking services. What’s more, we are open longer than most other banks. So why wait? Visit your nearest Red Deer TD Canada Trust branch right away. And enjoy a more comfortable banking experience. 4902 Gaetz Ave. (at 49th St.)
(403) 340-7400
6320 50th Ave. (at 60th St.)
(403) 346-7711
63 Clearview Market Way
(403) 340-7410
5001 19th St. (at 50th Ave.)
(403) 342-4700
*On average versus any other Canadian Bank. Individual branch hours may vary.
56
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
®
The TD logo and other trade-marks are the property of The Toronto-Dominion Bank.
M01258 (0316)
May 18, 2016
TEAM SPIRIT - Red Deer Rebels mascot Woolly Bully waves to fans during an intermission show earlier this season.
ADMIRATION - A young Red Deer Rebels fan looked up at goaltender Trevor Martin as he watched from the bench during the Rebels’ final game of the WHL regular season in March.
STRONG SKILLS - Red Deer Rebel Ivan Nikolishin flips the puck over Kyle Dumba of the Calgary Hitmen in the shootout during an early regular season matchup. May 18, 2016
photos by Zachary Cormier
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
57
SEE THINGS DIFFERENTLY
CHALLENGING THE DEFINITION OF
LEADERSHIP
A SUCCESSFUL TEAM NEEDS A LEADER WHO CAN EMPOWER OTHERS TO REACH A WINNING SOLUTION. WHEN IT COMES TO CONSTRUCTION, WE HAVE THE SAME BELIEF. WE GUIDE, INSPIRE, AND RESPECT OUR WHOLE PROJECT TEAM TO DELIVER THE WINNING OUTCOME.
LEAN/IPD CONTRACTING | SUSTAINABLE CONSTRUCTION | COLLABORATIVE PROJECTS | BUILDING INFORMATION MODELING
58
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
#110, 4732-60 Street
T. 403-340-1805
Red Deer, Alberta
E. lehnes@chandos.com
www.chandos.com
www.ipda.ca May 18, 2016
Local family
enjoys
billeting hockey players “I get siblings too. We can play games together - it’s a - Calder Rondeau lot of fun.” By Erin Fawcett
“You become their family away from home,” said Dana. Players for the Red Deer Rebels come from a variety of places Rene added the only real requirements for being a billet and the organization relies on local families to open their family is, “Doing their laundry and feeding them.” homes to those out of towners who will call the community The Rondeau’s are billets for Rylan Toth, 19, goaltender home for the for the Red Deer hockey season. Rebels. This is the The Rondeau second season he family has done has stayed with that very such them. thing for the last For Rene and four years. Dana’s 12-year“We had old son Calder, always said the arrangement that we would couldn’t be better. (billet a Red “I get siblings Deer Rebel),” too,” said Calder. said Dana “We can play Rondeau. “We games together were married - it’s a lot of fun.” when I was 18 Dana added and (Rene) was Toth is quite 22, so at that the celebrity at point it wasn’t Calder’s hockey feasible. And games as well. then by the time “He’s signing we were settled FAMILY AFFAIR - From left, Dana autographs and enough that we Rondeau, Rebels’ goalie Rylan Toth, the kids ask him would take it if he wants to Calder Rondeau and Rene Rondeau on, we were just come and play recently enjoyed some family time at having a brand mini sticks,” she photo by Zachary Cormier new baby so we their home. added with a waited until he laugh. was old enough and he was okay with sharing the house.” Toth added he has found a great fit with the Rondeaus. Rene, who owns iMediaTV and has worked closely with “The ideal billet is that they are good cooks - which Rene the Red Deer Rebels for a number of years, said he was at and Dana are. They have to be easy to talk to as well and a BBQ where officials with the Rebels were talking about some guys might not like kids, but I like kids and Calder needing more billets for the players. is pretty easy. It’s also nice to have your own space if you “The call for billets came out and I came home and talked want your own time to hang out by yourself.” to Dana. The year before that we took in one of our friend’s In addition, Rene said he encourages those interested in daughters so she could finish high school here because becoming a billet to explore the idea. her parents moved away. It kind of set the tone,” he said. “If you want to be one, you should definitely talk to families “We thought if we could handle a girl, a boy should be no that are,” he said. “We’ve had a couple of families talk to problem.” us who have gone on to become billets. But it has to be To become a billet for the Rebels, those interested must the right fit. The biggest thing is that you need to respect apply and go through an interview process. If approved, the player.” players are then placed with billets during training camp and The Rondeaus said they plan to continue being a billet if they make the team, through the duration of the season. family in the years to come. May 18, 2016
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
59
Road hockey benefits
youth programs
By Zachary Cormier The Piper Creek Optimist Club of Red Deer, along with the Red Deer Rebels and the 2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup, will be bringing an added touch of goodwill to the Westerner Park Grounds during Memorial Cup week as they host the 4 on 4 Corporate Road Hockey Challenge in support of youthoriented causes. “The tournament is meant to be a co-ed, recreational tournament just for the fun of it,” said Tournament Chair and Piper Creek Optimist Club member Ryan Morcom of the event, which will be held in the afternoons during the Memorial Cup from May 22nd-26th indoors at the Molson Canadian Hockey House in the Parkland Pavilion. All games will be open to the public. Announced in late April, the 4 0n 4 ‘Play On’-style road hockey tournament will pit local businesses against each other in a fun tournament to compete for their own ‘Memorial Cup.’ “The idea of participating is to raise pledges and raise money for the community,” Morcom said. Every member of every team involved in the tournament is expected to raise a certain amount of money in order to participate in the tournament. The team that can raise the most money through pledges can win 2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup game tickets for their group.
Top Quality Workmanship
When making the choice, make
youR fiRst choice! Carey MacDonald
403.357.2400 caliberpaint@telus.net
110, 7320B Johnstone Dr. Red Deer, AB
LtD r a e W rn Weste ork Wear &W
2 locations to serve you and your family ANY time of the year! www.weiswesternwear.com
WESTERN WEAR
60
5115 Gaetz Avenue Downtown
403-347-3149
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
Best of Red Deer GOLD WINNER
GO REBELS!
Western Wear 2015 Readers’ Readers’ 2014 Choice Awards Awards Choice
Part of the community since 1956
Venture Plaza 6715 Gaetz Avenue
403-346-9347
WESTERN WEAR
May 18, 2016
From weekend Atom tourneys...
...to the WHL
CGLtax.ca Proud Supporter of Hockey in Central Alberta May 18, 2016
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
61
Kayle Doetzel
relishing his Role with the
Rebels
By Kalisha Mendonsa
Memberships
&
Shares Av a i l a b l e
with monthly payment plans A Private Member Owned Facility Visit Ken Frame Golf Sales at the RDGCC for all your personal and corporate golf requirements. Contact Don McFarlane with social and golf membership inquires. Email: dkm@rdgcc.ca Phone: 403.347.5441 4500 Fountain Drive, Red Deer, AB
w w w. r d g c c . c a 62
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
For Kayle Doetzel, a defencemen with the Red Deer Rebels, hockey has literally been a way of life. He said he’s been on skates since he could stand and in rinks for as long as he can remember. The hard work and dedication has paid off for Doetzel, now in his fifth year as a Rebel. “I love everything about hockey. Everything from coming to the rink for practices and hanging out with the guys to actually playing the game. I’ve always loved it. It’s almost like it’s in your blood - I look forward to every day that I get to come to the rink,” he said with a smile. Born in Rosetown, Saskatchewan, Doetzel comes from a family of hockey fanatics. He said his dad had all the kids on skates as soon as possible and his family always supported the love for sports. Growing up, Doetzel played baseball and football in addition to hockey. Now, he’s focused on building momentum with his team to carry them onto the 2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup. “Once you get to the playoffs, it’s a different atmosphere completely,” he said. “Regular season is a lot of fun, and there are a lot of tough games but once you get into playoffs, everything goes up another level. “Every game is a key game and we need to kind of preach that with the younger guys at this time - it’s a huge opportunity. Not a lot of kids get to play major Junior A hockey at this age, so going into playoffs you need to really be on point.” Ever since the first time he donned the jersey, Doetzel said he’s been learning and growing from his experiences with the Rebels. He said he’s working hard to make sure he can excel and be a contributor to the team - on and off the ice. “Throughout the playoffs and then towards the Memorial Cup there’s a lot of exposure,” he began. “Every team is under the spotlight during that time. For me, I’m not going to change anything. I’m going to stick to my guns and try not to over think things. It’s just about doing your best. There’s definitely potential for people to be watching, but you have to have fun with it, too.” He said he would be excited to get signed, and is holding out hope for such an opportunity. Continued on page 65 May 18, 2016
“I love everything about hockey. Everything from coming to the rink for practices and hanging out with the guys to actually playing the game.” - Kayle Doetzel
photo by Zachary Cormier
2 FOR 1
Pizza or Pasta 403-347-5585 Take-out or Delivery
FOR • EntRÉEs 403-347-558 FOR • sAlADs
FAST DELIVERY FAST DELIVE
2
NT
LY R E S TA
URA
1
FA
FA
MI
NT
FAX: 403-347-5597 FAX: 403-347-5597 AppEtizERs Delivery starts at 11 AM until Closing Daily M A I LY • DEssERts R EDelivery S TA U R Charges Apply •
PIZZA & PASTA TAKE-OUT OR DELIVERY
Delivery Charges Apply
2FOR 1 ALBERTA SINCE 1985 SERVING CENTRAL www.dfrestaurant.ca PIZZA & PASTA dfrestaurant.ca
SERVING CENTRAL ALBERTA SINC
3121 – 49 AVE., RED DEER
FOR3121 - 49 Avenue,VisitRed 403-347-5585 Deer our website May 18, 2016
Delivery starts at 11 AM until Closi
Visit our website
3121 OR – 49 AVE., RED DEER AB TAKE-OUT DELIVERY
MONDAY – THURSDAY 10 AM – 11 PM FRIDAY AND SATURDAY 10 AM – MIDNITE
Debit @ your door
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup dfrestaurant.ca
63
Kayle Doetzel
photo by Zachary Cormier
central alberta loves to play and canadian Tire loves to encourage you
Through Jumpstart we’ve assisted 3,920 children in Sylvan Lake and Red Deer in achieving their dream of sports since 2011. We supply your love of hockey, soccer, fishing camping, hunting and the outdoors. Play makes us strongers, happier, more creative, more tenacious.
we all play for canada Visit your Sylvan Lake and Red Deer Canadian Tire stores. Proud supporters of play in our community!
64
Canadian Tire #329
Canadian Tire #655
Canadian Tire #645
2510 Gaetz Ave., Red Deer, AB
#200 62 Industrial Trail, Sylvan Lake, AB
300, 6380 - 50 Ave., Red Deer, AB
403-342-2222
403-887-0581
403-346-1497
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
May 18, 2016
Continued from page 62
Kayle Doetzel Members of the WHL often engage in community outreach activities, such as visiting schools and getting to inspire some young hockey fans. Doetzel said this aspect of playing with the Rebels has always been fun for him, especially knowing how it feels to be a young hockey fan. “It’s really cool when you get to go out, or have an interaction with
and it makes them happy.” Authentic and engaged, Doetzel said he likes to be able to give back to the community through these interactions and is thankful for that opportunity. “When a little kid comes up to you and asks for your autograph, that really feels good. “You spend some time with the kids and it makes their day and it makes yours. It’s nice to give that something back to them.” He said the fans are a big part of what makes playing for the Rebels so
putting on the jersey and being pretty nervous. We went out on the ice for introductions and the crowd was going nuts - the whole thing was just really crazy,” he added. Doetzel said he has learned a lot about how to act in his everyday life from being on the team and in the Rebels’ environment. “Having Brent (Sutter) as a coach is a big asset. “He’s gone through the NHL, he’s accomplished a lot and he brings a lot of that experience to us,” Doetzel explained.
“Even going to the schools, sitting down and reading with the kids, or something as small as a pat on the head or a fist bump means a lot to them. We don’t think about it - we’re just goofing around. But that kid will notice and it makes them happy.” - Kayle Doetzel someone and make their day,” he said with a genuine smile. “Even going to the schools, sitting down and reading with the kids, or something as small as a pat on the head or a fist bump means a lot to them. “We don’t think about it - we’re just goofing around. But that kid will notice
special. Since his first time on the ice as part of the team, the experience has remained a little surreal. “Fans get amped up and that sound really makes you appreciate what you do, and that you have a chance to play for them,” he said. “The first time I ever played with the Rebels, I was 16. I remember
“He’s taught us a ton of stuff that I can take to my everyday life like how you treat people and bringing a good work ethic to everything. If you’re going to do something, there’s no point in doing it half way. “I’ve learned to take everything I gain here and bring that home for my family and for my friends.”
FIRST CHOICE COLLISION “One of a Kind” State of the Art Facility
Auto & Light Duty Heavy Truck Motorhome & RV PDR (Paintless Dent Repair) Collision Specialists 5-7493 49 Ave Cres, Red Deer
403-343-3237
www.firstchoicecollision.net
May 18, 2016
ly al d &d! c e e Lown rat e O p O 2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
65
Reflecting on the
Memorial Cup win of 2001 Former Red Deer Rebels recall triumphant moment of clinching league title
By Zachary Cormier It was a moment that they’ll never forget. The sound of a puck hitting mesh, immediately swallowed up by the blaring of a goal horn and the roar of the crowd at the Regina Agridome. The single moment in time back in 2001 when Red Deer Rebels’ forward Doug Lynch fired the puck through a jumble of players, skates and sticks and into the Val D’Or net for the overtime winner in the Memorial Cup final will be forever burned into the minds of the Rebels’ fans and players who witnessed it. “It’s funny. I still remember being on the ice when we scored that goal. It was a bit of a fluky goal, I guess. We shot it from the corner and it kind of trickled in, nobody was really sure if it went in,” remembered Andrew Bergen, a member of the Red Deer Rebels’ 2001 Memorial Cupwinning team, who defeated the Val D’Or Foreurs 6-5 in a come from behind classic that fateful day 15 years ago.
66
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
“I still remember when it went in, just that initial feeling that we won. You play that many games in a season, it’s a long grind and to make it to that point, to actually win and to win in overtime, it was pretty amazing.” T h a t team, which included future NHLers M a r t i n Erat, Jim Vandermeer, Derek Meech, Jeff Woywitka and Colby Armstrong, was the first, and to this point the only, Red Deer Rebels team to ever lay claim to Major Junior
Hockey’s highest honour. After suffering an early first round playoff sweep at the hands of the Kootenay Ice in the 2000 WHL playoffs, the Rebels — who had just been bought by Brent Sutter in 1999 — exploded into the top spot in the entire CHL the following year. May 18, 2016
photos provided by the Western Hockey League
When all was said and done in 2000-01, Red Deer had lost just 15 regular season games, including OT losses. “It’s hard to explain. I look back on it now that I’m retired and it’s probably one of the greatest things I did when I was a player. Not only for me, but just one of the teams I’ve played on - it’s probably the greatest thing I’ve been a part of in hockey,” said Armstrong, who went on to play more than 400 NHL games with the Pittsburgh Penguins, Atlanta Thrashers, Toronto Maple Leafs and Montreal Canadiens after his time in ‘the Dub.’ Winning the Canadian Hockey League’s top prize is no small feat. The Memorial Cup pits the league champions from the Western Hockey League, Ontario Hockey League and Quebec Major Junior Hockey League plus the host team against each other in a 10 day tournament to determine who is ultimately the best team in Major Junior Hockey. With the long schedule and tough competition, not to mention having to come out as the top team of around 30 in each league, the Memorial Cup may just be the hardest trophy to win in all of sport. “To get to the (WHL) and get drafted and have a good enough team to even challenge for our league, never mind dominate pretty much at number one nationally with the team we had was pretty amazing,” Armstrong said. Competing in a Memorial Cup tournament is something that many players who pass through the Major Junior May 18, 2016
ranks never get to experience. Just making it that far is an experience that will stick with a young hockey player for the rest of his life, regardless of whether they go on to be a regular NHL player or head off to continue their education after their time in junior hockey is done. “It was the best way I ever could have ended my junior career. It was a few guys’ last game (that night). We sure weren’t upset taking our jerseys off at the end of season like usual, so you couldn’t ask for anything more,” said Devin Francon of what was his final game ever at the Major Junior level. The following year, Francon enrolled in Red Deer College’s carpentry program and still practices his craft in Red Deer. Bergen, who went on to spend five years playing and studying at Acadia University after his final season with the Rebels, also added, “The lessons on and off the ice - growing up from a young age away from home - were certainly helpful.” When asked what advice he would give to the players arriving in Red Deer for the 2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup, Francon said it’s important to enjoy the experience. “They obviously have to be focused, but I would highly recommend that they take a little bit of the sights in too. It’s a once in a lifetime experience. It’s really hard to get there, so if they can I would recommend that they take in the sights. When I was playing, I used to even look up in the stands sometimes. Just look around and take it in.” 2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
67
TENSION - From left, Colton Bobyk of the Red Deer Rebels dusted up with Brycen Martin of the Everett Silvertips during a regular season game. photo by Zachary Cormier
Artistry Science Where
meets
Cosmetic Dermatology • Anti-aging • Speciality skin care • Facial reconstruction • Laser facility Volume Replacement Juvederm
Medical Dermatology
• For all ages • Acne, Rosacea, Psoriasis • Skin disorders • Skin cancer
Botox for smile lines
Winner of
Acne Program
Hair Loss Therapy
Actual pictures of Laser Derm Clients!
Laser Derm & Wellness Centre
68
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
2016 Consumer Choice Award Top Dermatology Clinic Southern Alberta
Visit our website & call to book a FREE consultation!
403.347.8050 • www.laserdermclinic.ca
May 18, 2016
Here’s to 10 days of fabulous hockey!
Good luck to all the teams! Proud Community Supporter
Central Alberta Co-op Ltd. 403-343-2667 www.centralab.coop May 18, 2016
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
69
Real Estate | Wills | Corporate | Notary Public
JD Law provides excellent customer service that focuses on being:
1 . A f f o r dA b L E 2 . p ro f E s s i o nA L 3. EfficiEnt
The HAT TRICK of Legal Services
“Go Rebels Go” JD Law
Association of Independent Law Practices
110, 4909 – 49th Street
Red Deer, AB T4N 1V1
P: 403-754-5014 Jennifer L. Cragg Fax: 587-273-1954 • Christopher Stephan Fax: 403-754-5039 www.jdlaw.ca
70
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
May 18, 2016
TEAM SPIRIT - Red Deer Rebels fans cheered on their team during game one of their first round playoff matchup against the Calgary Hitmen.
TEAMWORK - Ivan Nikolishin of the Red Deer Rebels looks down the bench at his team during a regular season game against the Regina Pats.
VICTORY - Red Deer Rebel Evan Polei, centre, deflects the puck past Kelowna Rockets goalie Michael Herringer for his first of two goals in the first period of that regular season game against the Rockets.
photos by Zachary Cormier
May 18, 2016
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
71
WHERE BREAKFAST NEVER ENDS Kids Eat FREE
Emerald 55 Tuesdays
Fridays 5 pm - 9 pm
Seniors receive 20% off all day
We make birthdays special! 153 Leva Avenue (Gasoline Alley) Tel 403.309.6652
55+ receive 10% off everyday
#100, 6130 - 67 Street (North Red Deer) Tel 403.358.5594
72
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
May 18, 2016
BIG HIT - Conner Bleackley of the Red Deer Rebels collides with goaltender Tyler Brown of the Regina Pats.
photo by Zachary Cormier
GOOD LUCK! Bonne chance!
Best of luck to all teams participating in the MasterCard Memorial Cup. Proudly developing the hockey stars of the future.
The 2019 Canada Winter Games | Red Deer February 15 - March 3, 2019
More Than Just a Tile Store • Carpet • Tile • Hardwood • Lino • Granite • Tufdeck
Bonne chance à tous les participants à la Coupe Memorial MasterCard. Fier de développer les futures vedettes du hockey. Les Jeux d’hiver du Canada 2019 | Red Deer du 15 février au 3 mars 2019 2019canadagames.ca / jeuxducanada2019.ca FUNDING PARTIES / BAILLEURS DE FONDS
May 18, 2016
Flooring Specialists
403.346.7088 CentralAlbertaTileOne.ca 2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
73
The voice of the Red Deer Rebels
By Kalisha Mendonsa
photo by Zachary Cormier
There are many components to watching a great hockey game - the players of course, but it’s also the atmosphere of the crowd, the slashing of sticks and skates across the ice and the familiar sound of an enthusiastic commentator from above. For the Red Deer community, Cam Moon is that booming voice behind the crowds that carries through the play-by-play of games. Moon is the director of radio broadcasting and media relations with the Red Deer Rebels and has been with them now for 18 years.
74
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
“I like to tell the story - I also like to tell stories in general, but I like to tell the story of the game, which is what I get to do every night. Whether the team is here at home or out on the road, I enjoy telling the story,” he said. “As a youngster, I put games on the radio when it was time to go to bed. It was either the Oilers, or Eskimos or the Edmonton Trappers baseball team. I’d always have a game on and I thought it was the coolest job in the world. “It was exactly what I wanted to do - I wanted to be that voice. And now I am.” Originally from Edmonton, Moon
has always had a love of sports and a special place in his heart for hockey. He played in the Western Hockey League (WHL) with Saskatoon and Medicine Hat before taking advantage of education opportunities through the league. Moon completed a radio and television arts program at the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) while voicing WHL, Ontario Hockey League (OHL) and Quebec Major Junior League games on TV. “It was a baptism by fire at first - I didn’t know what I was doing at all,” May 18, 2016
Moon laughed. “To do that on a national television level was pretty scary, but it was fun.” Moon worked with the Nanaimo Clippers doing radio play-by-play before moving to Red Deer, where he has settled into the community with family and a key role with the Rebels’ team. Growing up in Alberta, Moon said he saw the WHL as a particularly inspiring league. “There really is something about this league. When I was a kid, I wanted to play in the WHL. There was nothing else - it was the greatest league in the world, and I still believe that,” he said. “You never know what’s going to happen. “You’d think the best teams are going to win, but they don’t always. There’s enough mistakes made at this level, with so many variables, that you can’t really count on anything from one night to the next.” Moon explained that a few reasons
“Even when you’re playing home games, you’re not at home. You’re at the rink. It’s a tough job,” he said. “Really, my wife’s been great and has been supportive of me all the way through. When our kids were really little, though, it was especially hard to be away so much.” He said although there are some challenges, there is still no other path he’d take. “I think the biggest challenge with what I do is simply keeping up to date on everything,” he laughed. “You’ve got to do your homework. You’ve got to know what you’re talking about - know the teams, know the leagues, know your own players inside out and backwards. “You’ve got to do the work or else you’re not going to be able to go on the air and speak with any sort of authority.” Before Moon stuck with the Rebels, he had done quite a bit of work across the country into Ontario and Quebec.
the momentum of the tournament was electric. “The team went the whole second half of the season, the entire playoffs, and the Memorial Cup never losing two games in a row,” he exclaimed. “It was a special group of players. Even when you see them now, it’s like no time has passed. There was something about that year that was just amazing. “The Memorial Cup itself was pretty special, too. We won in overtime and the place went crazy - the whole city went crazy. “That was pretty special.” He said this year would be a little bit different with new responsibilities as host town. He said he believes the team is ready to compete, and that there is, “Certainly enough talent on the team to win.” Moon said he is looking forward to his role as storyteller throughout every game for the duration of the tournament.
“I like to tell the story - I also like to tell stories in general, but I like to tell the story of the game, which is what I get to do every night. Whether the team is here at home or out on the road, I enjoy telling the story.” - Cam Moon come into play as to why he has remained with the Rebels for so long. “We’ve got a great vibe here and that’s what makes it so much fun. I like going to work every day - the vibe with everybody involved is perfect and it never feels like a job,” he said simply. He also noted his love of travelling and the opportunities working with the team have provided a way for seeing western Canada. He said he’s made great connections across provinces because of this. Whether on the road or at home in the Centrium, Moon said he simply enjoys being a part of the experience of hockey. “When the team comes down in the afternoon, the rink hasn’t opened up yet and the people haven’t arrived there is something really cool about it,” he said. “I absolutely love it. “It slowly starts to build, the doors open, people start filing in and the music starts. Then there’s warm-up and then it’s game time - it’s just so much fun.” He said his wife and family have been very supportive of his dedication to the team. May 18, 2016
He said he travelled to the Maritimes on a few occasions, and was always thankful for those experiences. “It was all because of hockey, and broadcasting. We have a diverse country, and growing up in the prairies you don’t always appreciate everything. Once you get to go out and see different parts of the country, you become a little more appreciative.” He said one of the best experiences he’s had in his career and personal life was travelling to the Montreal Forum to broadcast in his early 20’s. “The Forum is one of the most historical and famous buildings in hockey. It was incredibly cool,” Moon said, beaming with excitement. “I of course had to go up to the broadcast booth and thought to myself, this is where Danny Galavant and Dick Irvin would work, night in and night out doing Montreal Canadiens’ games.” Moon also said the last Red Deer Memorial Cup win in 2001 - was an exciting time, and career highlight. He recounted the guys on the team were particularly close that year and
“I’m going to be losing my marbles up in the broadcasting booth,” he laughed. “I’m so excited for the drama of the tournament because you have absolutely no idea how it’s going to go. This even brings a national spotlight on us and a ton of people travel for the Memorial Cup, even if their team isn’t in it. I’m excited to be the link between the game and those following it.” Moon has a passion for storytelling, a love of the game and a great personality that make him a valued member in the Red Deer community. Over the years, Moon has become part of the Red Deer Rebels’ legacy but remains humble. “I hope that I tell the story of each night’s game accurately but in an entertaining way as well,” he said. “I’m hoping that I capture the spirit of the thing - I’d like to think I’m doing that. “We like to have fun with the games for sure. I don’t take myself too seriously, either - I’m willing to have a few laughs. I hope that comes across,” he said. 2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
75
TEAM PRIDE - Red Deer Rebel fans came out in their gear all season long to cheer on the hometown team.
photo by Zachary Cormier
Hit tHe open road to Camrose
Picture Life
Without the Pain
Summer Biker Special until July 1st, 2016
Sundays - Thursdays
We treat: Headaches • Joint, Neck & Back Pain • Carpal Tunnel • Fibromyalgia • Pregnancy • Maternity • Children and more...
Walk-ins Welcome B3450 50 Ave., Red Deer, AB 403.986.6260
www.southgaetzchiro.com 76
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
Fridays
Just take a picture of your bike in front of our lobby and show it at check-in to be eligible for the following: -complimentary bike wipe down towel -$5 blackjack play -Jacuzzi Suite upgrade (if available) -hot breakfast buffet for up to two people from 630am to 930am
Call to book your BIKE stay today
Room must be reserved a minimum of 2 days in advance to be eligible for this offer. No walk-ins. Plus applicable taxes. Based on availability.
3201-48 Ave. Camrose
1-877-784-8441
camroseresortcasino.com May 18, 2016
GoAutoRedDeer.ca wants to
LOWER YOUR MONTHLY CAR PAYMENTS! $100 $200
...EVEN $300 A MONTH.
EVERY MONTH! And we’ll do it by getting you into a NEWER SAFER MORE ADVANCED VEHICLE! Visit GoAutoRedDeer.ca
Let us know what you’re driving, and we’ll provide you with a list of newer vehicles to choose from, all of which will lower your monthly payment.
Don’t stay stuck in a car payment that doesn’t make sense.
Visit GoAutoRedDeer.ca
AND LOWER YOUR MONTHLY PAYMENT, TODAY!
AMVIC Licensed.
dodge red deer 1824 - 49 Ave, AB | 1.855.508.7060 HondaRedDeer.ca May 18, 2016
3010 - 50 Ave, AB | 1.855.424.3082 MGMFordLincoln.com
3115 Gaetz Ave, AB | 1.844.725.0110 GoDodgeRedDeer.ca 2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
77
Jake DeBrusk
follows By Kalisha Mendonsa
in
At 19-years-old, Red Deer Rebel Jake DeBrusk has already made great strides towards following in his father’s NHL career footsteps. Son of Louis Dennis DeBrusk - former leftwing with the Edmonton Oilers, Tampa Bay Lightning, Phoenix Coyotes and Chicago Blackhawks - Jake has been allowed a special insight into the world of professional hockey. Jake said it was through his father that a love of the game was fostered. “The biggest reason I got into hockey is my dad and watching him play,” Jake said. “I don’t necessarily remember the games so much now but it was more about being in and around the rink. I always wanted to be like him, and that’s how I got started into hockey.” Jake said being in a family full of hockey lovers and supporters encouraged him to carve out his own path on the ice. He especially praised the Edmonton minor hockey programs for developing his
photo by Zachary Cormier
When it comes to mortgage nancing, there’s the box at the bank... and then there’s us!
residential commercial revenue
Heidi Dandurand 403.350.8958
Kari Flaws 403.357.6986
Linda Smyth 403.443.1166
Kelly Lukens 403.505.1771
self employed vacation property bruised credit
Lorie Simmerson 403.358.8395
Jennifer Charles 403.302.8181
MORTGAGE ARCHITECTS 78
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
May 18, 2016
his father’s footsteps love and skills that brought him to the Rebels. The Rebels acquired Jake - who was taken by the Boston Bruins in the first round, 14th overall in the 2015 NHL Entry Draft - earlier this season, in a trade deadline deal with the Swift Current Broncos. He said he was absolutely pumped about his future with the Bruins. “I’m from Edmonton, so I did watch a lot of the Oilers, and not as much of the Bruins, but when I got there I instantly felt comfortable. I was just really happy to be there and really happy that they took me,” he said. Jake trained with the Bruins for a summer development camp and said it was a truly memorable experience. “Seeing guys like Patrice Bergeron, (Zdeno) Chara and (Brad) Marchand was really just a dream come true. You kind of get a little mesmerized by it all,” he laughed. “I just want to be a good asset to the team. You work hard to impress at camp, and signing with the team is a really good trademark and a great thing for me. I’m going to go on and keep getting better and show them what I can do, especially through playoffs.” Playoffs are an exciting time for both players and fans. However, intense games on a high-frequency schedule can be tricky for an athlete to keep up with. Jake said he’s been working on his nutrition and health in order to combat that physical and mental demand. “A big thing for me lately has been my nutrition and changing that up this year. It’s probably given me a good edge, especially around play-off time here. There are a lot of games that are quick, and back-to-back so nutrition is a By Kalisha huge part of that needed recovery.Mendonsa I’ve been focused on that and just doing everything I can to become a pro,” he said.
Jake DeBrusk May 18, 2016
Jake said he and his teammates feel optimistic about the momentum going into the 2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup. “It’s going to be a big tournament for myself and a big tournament for Red Deer. We’re hoping to come into the Memorial Cup through the front door, so to speak. But I think it’ll be fun,” he said with a positive tone and sense of determination. “I think things are coming along really well for this team. I’m looking forward to getting better every single game. That’s kind of what coach and staff are preaching and if we do that, we’ll have a really good chance to win.” Like many of the WHL and NHL league players, Jake joins his team in various aspects of community outreach. He said in addition to his love of the game, he enjoys the off-ice interactions and recognizes the value of reaching out to the community - especially the young people who support the team. “I remember being a kid and talking to the hockey players around town and how that made me feel. I just want to give that same feeling to some of the kids,” he said. “I love that stuff, it’s such a big part of what we do. I came from Swift Current, and it’s one of the smallest market teams in the CHL. I came here and I think the second week I was here or so, we went into the schools and I loved it.” Recently, the Rebels came through playoffs which was of great excitement for Jake. “The fans and everyone went crazy. It makes such a difference,” he said excitedly. “We love that kind of stuff and reaction - I think any player will agree with that. I’m really happy about it and I’m really happy to be a Rebel.”
photo by Zachary Cormier
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
79
Rebels’ biggest has been
loyal
fan
since
day one
“It’s something that he and I can do forever together. It’s been really great. We’ve been lucky and it’s been special. It’s something we do and it’s something we both enjoy and we have lots of good memories. Good things have happened to Matthew in the arena, mind you, he’s made a lot of people happy too. It’s amazing and we’re lucky to have him.” - Dave Elliot
By Erin Fawcett On Rebels’ game nights there are certain things that are Matthew can be seen on the Rebels’ bench during the sure to be at every game - entertaining hockey, loud fans, players’ warm up and he enjoys watching the players skate an energetic atmosphere around the ice and shoot and a good time. But the puck. He also gives those aren’t the only them high-fives when fixtures at the rink - a man they come off the ice. “I by the name of Matthew wish them good luck,” Elliot can be seen having he said. the absolute best time He also gets to spend each and every game time with the players and he warms people’s before each game. “They have the music on in the hearts and puts a smile dressing room so he’s on people’s faces along always dancing around the way. Section L, row 11, seats and having fun,” said one, two and three have Dave. “It’s awesome,” said been the home to Elliot, Matthew. 38, and his father Dave Elliot, who have held He has his favourite season tickets parts of Rebels’ games in those exact including, “All the goals TRAVEL TIME - From left, Matthew seats since being scored and the the beginning, Elliot and his father Dave Elliot took bodychecking.” rarely missing in some playoff action in Calgary The Rebels have any Rebels’ when the Red Deer Rebels visited the three jerseys they wear games since Calgary Hitmen. throughout the season 1992. and before each game, photo by Zachary Cormier ”Matthew and Dave will call the Rebels’ I used to go and see the trainer to see which (Red Deer) Rustlers play 30 years ago - I would put him in jersey the team is wearing that night. Matthew will dress his snowsuit and sit him in the bleachers there,” said Dave. to match. “When the Rebels came to town Matthew was learning to If Matthew shows up in a different jersey, Dave said the ski at the time and went to a few games and he decided reason is quite obvious. “The funny thing is the trainers he was going to go to all the games and miss the skiing.” know that and they look at me and say, ‘You didn’t call did
80
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
May 18, 2016
you Dave?’” Dave said with a laugh. Dave said he cannot say enough positive things about the Rebels organization in how they have welcomed Matthew as part of their family. “I think it’s amazing, incredible and we really appreciate it. He gets to know the players, the staff gets to know him and I’m sure he knows 4,000 people in the Centrium because he goes around between periods and talks to people about the game and high fives everyone he needs to,” he said. “It’s been a good thing for Matthew for sure and we just get to go along as well.” For Dave and Matthew, the bond that Rebels hockey has brought the pair will be forever cherished. “It’s something that he and I can do forever together,” said Dave. “It’s been really great. We’ve been lucky and it’s been special. It’s something we do and it’s something we
photo by Zachary Cormier
BIGGEST FANS - Matthew Elliot and his father Dave Elliot have been attending Red Deer Rebels’ games since the very beginning. Matthew is a huge Red Deer Rebels’ fan and can be seen every game in section L.
photo by Zachary Cormier
both enjoy and we have lots of good memories. Good things have happened to Matthew in the arena, mind you, he’s made a lot of people happy too. It’s amazing and we’re lucky to have him.” The pair has also traveled to see the Rebels in action as well. In 2001 when the Rebels won the Memorial Cup in Regina, Dave and Matthew were there. “That was awesome too and we won it,” said Matthew. As for this year’s 2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup, Dave and Matthew will be in their regular seats at the ENMAX Centrium. “I’m pumped,” said Matthew. “I hope they win again.” Meanwhile, Matthew wouldn’t give any hints as to if he had a favourite Red Deer Rebel. “I like every one of them.” May 18, 2016
Car, Truck, RV Bays & Touchless Automatic
OPEN
7 days a week!
Car Wash
Monday - Saturday 7 am - 10 pm Sunday 8 am - 9 pm
6284 67A St. Red Deer, AB 403.342.7351 2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
81
Meet the By Erin Fawcett
Junior Hockey Junkies
A group of hockey fanatics are set to descend on Red Deer just in time for the 2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup. The Junior Hockey Junkies was started by six Calgarians who are avid Hitmen fans and who in 1999 travelled to Ottawa to watch the Hitmen play in the Memorial Cup tournament. “We went to see the hockey but once we were there we realized it was more than just a hockey tournament - there was the Fan Fest that went with it as well. It was more than just going to a game once a day,” said one of the founding members Kim Thomas, also known as ‘Santa’ in the group. “We had a good time and the Hitmen were there and we were pumped for them but disappointed when they lost in the final in overtime. “But we had such a good time we decided we were going to go the next year which was going to be in Halifax. We had a good time in Halifax and we decided from there that we were going to go every year and we kept going. “In 2004 we were approached by the CHL to see if we would maintain a database of fans who continue to go year after year even though their team isn’t in it.” Currently, there are about 200 fans in the database. Thomas added Dave Gorsline, known as ‘Bubba’ in the group, buys the host jersey of every Memorial Cup he goes to. He now has 17 jerseys. “He brings all his jerseys with him and he divvies them out to people in the group and he’ll designate one game and there will be 17 people wearing 17 host jerseys and
everyone wears an Elvis wig,” said Thomas. “He also designs a military camouflage jersey to support our troops and it has caught on over the years. Many of the fans in the group and throughout the CHL have bought them and wear them on the first night of the Memorial Cup. “It’s become a pretty neat thing.” Thomas said for him, he looks forward to the Memorial Cup each and every year. “Number one is the hockey. It’s typically the top teams in the CHL, so your hockey is at a very high level and it’s very entertaining. There is also the social aspect of it as well,” he said. “We’re known to attend all the concerts and anything that goes on at the beer gardens and in the Fan Fest. Over the years we’ve gotten to know the guys from the Hockey Hall of Fame very well and they have become friends of the group. “(The group) has been built over the years. It may have started with six Hitmen fans going out there, but over the course of the years we’ve obviously met many people and formed friendships that are long lasting. The friends that you meet, we all look forward to catching up with each other - not just what is going on with your hockey team but what’s going in your personal life - how’s your job going? How are your grandkids? All that sort of stuff.” The Junkies’ trip to Red Deer for the 2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup marks their 18th consecutive appearance at Memorial Cup tournaments. For more, visit www.jrhockeyjunkies.com.
FIND YOUR
SUMMER IN Sylvan Lake, A L B E R TA Catch the lake effect! www.visitsylvanlake.ca
42 2016
82
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
May 18, 2016
You take pride in your team, we take pride in our city. Please be sure to recycle your bottles, cans and cups while cheering on your team at the Enmax Centrium.
every toss counts. reddeer.ca/recycling
May 18, 2016
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
83
City of Red Deer
84
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
May 18, 2016
Map Legend 1
Historic Fort Normandeau
15
City Hall & City Hall Park
2
Alberta Sports Hall of Fame & Museum
16
Red Deer College
3
Heritage Ranch
17
Red Deer Museum + Art Gallery
4
Kiwanis Picnic Park
18
Recreation Centre
5
Great Chief Park
19
Red Deer Arena/Kinex Arena
6
Bower Ponds/Cronquist House
20
Rotary Park & Skateboard Park
7
Great West Adventure BMX Park
21
Kin Canyon
8
Edgar Athletic Park
22
Sunnybrook Farm Museum
9
GH Dawe Community Centre
23
Memorial Centre and Festival Hall
10
Mountain Bike park
24
Kinsmen Arena
11
Discovery Canyon
25
St. Mary’s Church
12
Three Mile Bend
26
Collicutt Centre
13
McKenzie Trails
27
Michener Recreation Centre
14
Kerry Wood Nature Centre & Gaetz Lake Sanctuary
28
Westerner Park/ENMAX Centrium
Welcome all Teams & Visitors to the 2016 Memorial Cup!
Best of Luck! Earl Dreeshen, MP Red Deer - Mountain View 4315 - 55th Avenue, Suite 100A
403-347-7426 • 1-866-211-0959 • www.earldreeshen.ca May 18, 2016
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
85
Exercise is the best medicine to improve mental and physical health! Ask your Doctor for a
Prescription to Get Active at your next visit!
This will entitle you to free trial classes at any of our supporting community partner facilities. City of Red Deer, Abbey Centre, Penhold Multiplex, Golden Circle, Kerry Wood Nature Centre, Red Deer College, Yoga Studios (Bikram Yoga, Universoul Yoga Studio, Breathing Room Yoga Studio, and My Revolution Cycle & Yoga), Fitness Facilities (Curves, Studio Pilates, Body Basics, One to One Fitness, Only Women’s Fitness, The Sweat Shop, and Group Fitness Experts), Master Rim’s Taekwondo, Shotokan Karate Club, and Red Deer Tennis Club
Visit reddeerpcn.com for more information. 86
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup
May 18, 2016
into the
MEMORIAL CUP?
ALL YOU NEED TO DO IS ENTER OUR DAILY PRIZE DRAW ON FACEBOOK! Starting May 20, we’re giving away a pair of tickets to each game in the Memorial Cup round robin. But if you want to win Playoff tickets, you’ll need to be on the Bower Place E-Club team first! For more details visit bowerplace.com or Guest Services.
May 18, 2016
2016 MasterCard Memorial Cup Prepared by Suburbia Studios 250.744.1231
jeremie@suburbiastudios.com
87
G
! s l e b e R o 2804 Gaetz Ave., Red Deer 403-346-5577 www.southsidereddeer.com
Home of the
$10,000
Monthly Giveaway With RV or Auto Purchase