MiHockeyMag - April 9, 2012

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V.22 : I.19 | April 9, 2012

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FIRST CLASS

MADE IN MICHIGAN

TABLE OF CONTENTS

APRIL 9, 2012 VOLUME 22: ISSUE 19 6 THE LOCKER ROOM Talking hockey on Facebook and Twitter

8 SLIDESHOW Photos from across the Mitten

10 SPEAKING OF HOCKEY

Who will be the Red Wings’ postseason MVP?

12 GET BETTER

Working on that neutral zone trap

14 YOU SHOULD KNOW Michigan State’s Brent Darnell

16 TOURNAMENT CALENDAR The latest tournament listings

22 NATIONALS COVERAGE Checking out youth hockey’s biggest stage

24 HOMETOWN HERO Westland’s Chris Conner

26 HIGH SCHOOL HOCKEY Checking in on the Hockey For Hope tournament

18-21

33 NAHL

Next wave of college commitments coming

STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS We conclude our state title coverage with the remaining victors

34 MUSKEGON LUMBERJACKS A road map for victory

36 PLYMOUTH WHALERS Closing in on life-long dreams

37 SAGINAW SPIRIT Novi’s Grant Webermin is profiled

40 GRAND RAPIDS GRIFFINS Riley Sheahan is fitting right in

42 NHL WRAP-UP Goaltending by numbers, and our All-Michigan team

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COLLEGE HOCKEY

Ferris State gets ready for the Frozen Four, plus some early departures to the pros

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RED WINGS INSIDER

Dave Waddell writes about Michigan natives Justin Abdelkader and Drew Miller

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LOOK FOR OUR NEXT ISSUE LAST LINE

Darren Eliot discusses the one youth hockey team he will never forget

MIHOCKEYNOW.COM

APRIL 23, 2012

To advertise in MiHockey please contact Lucia Zuzga at (248) 479-1134 or lucia@mihockeynow.com or Michael Caples at (248) 479-1136 or mcaples@mihockeynow.com

APRIL 9, 2012 V.22 : I.19

FROM THE EDITOR MIHOCKEYMAG EDITOR Michael Caples

mcaples@mihockeynow.com

ADVERTISING Lucia Zuzga

lucia@mihockeynow.com

DESIGN Emily Huston Chuck Stevens MICHIGAN HOCKEY STAFF Brian Kalisher bkalisher@mihockeynow.com

DISTRIBUTION Lucia Zuzga

ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR Amy Jones DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS & PROGRAMMING Darren Eliot

EDITORIAL BOARD: Bob DeSpirt, Christine Knight, Derek Blair, James Jenkins, Julie Pardoski, Kirk Vickers, Linda Holland, Lisa Zarzycki, Mark Vansaw, Nyron Fauconier, Randy Paquette, Rob Mattina, Susan Bottrell, Tim Wilson, Todd Krygier LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: MICHIGAN HOCKEY® welcomes Letters to the Editor. E-mail mcaples@mihockeynow.com

MICHIGAN HOCKEY is published by SUBURBAN SPORTS COMMUNICATIONS, LLC 23995 Freeway Park Drive, Suite 200, Farmington Hills, MI 483352829.

BY MICHAEL CAPLES As I write this, I can look up and see the sunlight shining down onto the trees that surround our building. It’s a nice sight; it tells me that summer is almost here, and that hopefully, we’re done with these wild weather fluctuations. It also means that another hockey season is rapidly coming to a close. Sure, the Wings are still playing (hopefully for a long time, too), and so are the Whalers and Spirit. This magazine goes to press while the Ferris State Bulldogs embark on their first Frozen Four appearance, and we wish them the best of luck. Be sure to follow along with MiHockeyNow.com for postgame coverage of their time in Tampa Bay. While our college, junior, and pro teams are still playing, our youth teams have seen their seasons conclude. It’s now time for spring hockey, and for everybody to catch our breath a bit. Relax, the stresses of playoff runs are no longer required.

@michaelcaples In this issue, we wrap up our state champions coverage. Congratulations to all the teams who won over the last month, and to the ones who didn’t – keep your chin up. I highly recommend that you flip through to Darren Eliot’s Last Line, which brings perspective to both the winning teams, and the losing teams. Don’t turn through the pages too fast, though. We’ve got plenty of coverage of every age group of hockey. That was the inspiration behind our new slogan, pictured below. Your hockey, our hockey, MiHockey. Sharing the game that you know and love with your family and friends. That’s what it’s all about, right? We’re putting the finishing touches on a rebranding process that started with the launch of our new site at the start of hockey season. We hope you like where we’re headed as we continue to cover everything this great state has to offer (hockey-wise, of course). Hope to see you at a rink soon,

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to MICHIGAN HOCKEY®, 23995 Freeway Park Drive, Suite 200, Farmington Hills, MI 48335-2829. ©2011 by Suburban Sports Communications. All Rights Reserved. The opinions and views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of MICHIGAN HOCKEY or its advertisers. All editorial copy, photographs and advertising materials remain the property of MICHIGAN HOCKEY.

MICHIGAN HOCKEY 23995 Freeway Park Drive • Suite 200 Farmington Hills, MI 48335-2829 (248) 478-2500 • FAX: (248) 478-1601 E-MAIL: mcaples@mihockeynow.com WEBSITE: mihockeynow.com PHOTOS AT LEFT: Ferris State celebrates their Frozen Four berth (Ferris State Athletic Department), Justin Abdelkader (Tom Turrill/MiHockey) COVER: Photos by Tom Turrill/MiHockey and Dave Reginek/DRW

Cover reprints available e-mail: mcaples@mihockeynow.com

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THE LOCKER ROOM

THE

LOCKERROOM

ON THE FLY

TWO FOR TWEETING

Dann Danny Dan nny Bara Bara a shared sha are ed this thiss photo th pho hoto to he he took tookk of of Pa P Pavel vell Da ve Datsyuk ats t yu yukk wi w with th h us us on n our our ur Facebook Fac aceb book ook oo page (www.facebook.com/MiHockeyNow). Looks like Dan had some pretty good seats for the Red Wings game he was at.

Always great to have somebody tweet a photo of their team featured in the magazine!

It’s always nice to see players using Twitter to reach out directly to their fans, like what Nyquist did the day after he scored his first NHL goal.

Chris Brown discussed his signing with the Phoenix Coyotes instead of staying for his senior year at Michigan.

Shawn Hunwick tweeted this after the Wolverines were eliminated from the NCAA Tournament. A few days later, he would join the NHL ranks.

Fo Follow ollow ow us on o T Twitter w ttter wi e ((www.Twitter.com/MiHockeyNow) www ww w Tw wit itte terr co c m/ m/Mi MiHo occkkey yNo ow) tto o ke kkeep eep ep u ep up p to to d date ate at e wi with ith h all things hockey in Michigan. Editor Michael Caples snapped this photo of Gustav Nyquist’s first NHL goal puck before it was presented to the Red Wings rookie.

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Torey Krug posted this tweet after it was announced that he would forgo his senior season at Michigan State to join the Boston Bruins.

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SLIDESHOW

MICHIGAN HOCKEY IN PICTURES: In his ďŹ rst season, Andy Murray led the Broncos to their second CCHA playoff championship in school history. (Dave Reginek/DRW)

The Ferris State Bulldogs pose for a team photo after clinching their ďŹ rst appearance in the Frozen Four in school history. (Courtesy Ferris State Athletic Department)

Western Michigan captain Ian Slater accepts the Mason Cup from CCHA commissioner Fred Pletsch. (Dave Reginek/DRW)

In a matter of hours, Wolverines goaltender and Sterling Heights native Shawn Hunwick went from being in class, to serving as back-up goaltender for the Columbus Blue Jackets. The netminder impressed the Columbus organization, as they signed him on for the rest of the season. (Dave Reginek/DRW)

The Western Michigan Broncos pose with their championship banner that will hang from the Joe Louis Arena rafters for the next year. (Dave Reginek/DRW) MSU captain and Livonia native Torey Krug signed a deal with the Boston Bruins, forgoing his senior season in East Lansing. (Dave Reginek/DRW)

The USA Hockey 18U Tier II national championship was played in East Lansing from March 28 to April 1. See more about the youth nationals on Page 22. (Michael Caples/MiHockey)

Clinton Township native Derek Roehl, a senior for the CCHA playoff champion Western Michigan Broncos, celebrates with the Mason Cup. (Dave Reginek/DRW)

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SPEAKING OF HOCKEY

After the Red Wings clinched a playoff spot for the 21st consecutive season, we asked...

“Who will be the playoff MVP for the Red Wings?” For each issue of the magazine, we will post a question on Facebook, and one randomly selected answer will win a Warrior prize pack: hoodie, hat, and T-shirt. Good luck!

Val (Filppula) is skating, moving, and shooting the puck like nobody’s business. The second line is on fire. I think he breaks out this postseason. Geoff Chiles Datsyuk, he’s going to be a force in the playoffs. Alec Blake Petrelak Jimmy Howard-before injuries hit he was playing at an amazing level, and I have no doubt he’ll hit that level again once he finally gets back in. Norm Bona People forget what Franzen is being paid for... his playoff performances. He might be called “The Floater” during the regular season but in the playoffs he becomes a completely different player. Joseph Boycott The whole team should get it. They play as a team win or lose. Don Bowers Filppula has been on fire this year ~ His moves are like Datsyuk, but with less pressure from the opposition. I think he has a chance to be our MVP. Jennifer Howard

WINNER

I’ll say Datsyuk because of his abilities in both all three zones and his dangerous presence offensively and defensively. Andy Parky Parkington

Jimmy Howard, although he’s been injured, he is going to be well rested for the Wing’s playoff run — Matt Fox

Visit our Facebook page to try and win our next Warrior prize pack, facebook.com/mihockeynow 10

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2012 SPRING TRYOUTS honeybakedhockey.com

Midget Major

CONTACT: Steve Dickinson 4EJYJF !BPM DPN t Tues April 10 8-9:30pm at Hazel Park Tues April 17 8-9:30pm at Hazel Park Tues April 24 8-9:30pm at Hazel Park Tues May 1 8-9:30pm at Hazel Park Tues May 8 8-9:30pm at Hazel Park Tues May 15 8-9:30pm at Hazel Park Thurs May 24 9-10:30pm at Hazel Park Thurs May 31 9-10:30pm at Hazel Park

Midget Minor

CONTACT: Rob Krohl ,SPIMZ !HNBJM DPN t Tryouts are complete

1998 Bantam Major CONTACT: Pat Peake lmcsweet@aol.com Tryouts are complete

APRIL 9, 2012 V.22 : I.19

1999 Bantam Minor CONTACT: Jeff Mitchell mitch22jo@sbcglobal.net Tryouts are complete

2000 Peewee Major

CONTACT: Trevor Edwards )POFZCBLFE !IPUNBJM DPN Tryouts are complete

2003 Squirt Minor Tier II (DISTRICT 4) CONTACT: Jeff Mitchell mitch22jo@sbcglobal.net Tryouts are complete

2004 Honeybaked (DISTRICT 4) CONTACT: Todd Waldo UXBMEP !DPNDBTU OFU

2001 Peewee Minor CONTACT: Danny Veri dannyveri@sbcglobal.net

2002 Squirt Major Tier II (DISTRICT 4) CONTACT: Dave Debol daviddebol@aol.com Tryouts are complete

Girls 19U

CONTACT Head Coach Ryan Pardoski rpardoski@suburbanice.com Associate Head Coach : Rob Robinson SPCSPCJOTPO !HNBJM DPN 5VFTEBZ "QSJM UI QN 5IVSTEBZ "QSJM UI QN 4VOEBZ "QSJM UI QN All skates at Suburban Ice Farmington Hills

MIHOCKEYNOW.COM

All Girls team tryouts will be held after the USA Hockey National Tournament which ends April 2nd

Girls 16U

CONTACT: Lyle Phair lphair@suburbanice.com .POEBZ "QSJM QN 8FEOFTEBZ "QSJM QN .POEBZ "QSJM QN All skates at Suburban Ice Farmington HIlls

Girls 14U

CONTACT: Danny Veri dannyveri@sbcglobal.net

Tryouts are complete

Girls 12U

CONTACT: Mike McCullough .KNDD !NTO DPN

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APRIL 9, 2012 V.22 : I.19

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YOU SHOULD KNOW

you should know FAVORITE SPORTING EVENT: Stanley Cup Finals FAVORITE BREAKFAST FOOD: Omelets FAVORITE MOVIE: Happy Gilmore or the Mighty Ducks series MUST-SEE TV: Two and a Half Men WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN YOU HAVE AN HOUR OF FREE TIME: Take a nap WHAT IS YOUR NICKNAME: Darney WHAT KIND OF CAR DO YOU DRIVE: Toyota Camry FAVORITE CHILDHOOD MEMORY: Going to Quebec for the Pee Wee hockey tournament THREE PEOPLE YOU WOULD WANT TO HAVE DINNER WITH: Steve Yzerman, Steve Jobs and Abraham Lincoln IF YOU COULD HAVE ANY SUPER POWER, WHAT WOULD IT BE: To fly ONE PIECE OF TECHNOLOGY YOU CANNOT LIVE WITHOUT: My cell phone

Brent Darnell

Michigan State University forward Canton native Brent Darnell joined the Spartans this season, and the MSU coaching staff couldn’t find any reasons to keep the freshman out of the line-up. Darnell dressed in 36 of the Spartans’ 39 games this season, and didn’t miss a contest from November on. Along the way, he recorded six goals and seven assists in his rookie campaign. The former Catholic Central Shamrock played for the Sioux Falls Stampede of the USHL before heading to East Lansing.

WHO WAS MOST INFLUENTIAL ON YOUR HOCKEY CAREER: My mom and dad Photos courtesy of: stanleycupwinners.net (Stanley Cup), toutlecine.com (Happy Gilmore), en.wikipedia.org (Two and a Half Men), 4stevejobs.blogspot.com (Steve Jobs), blingcheese.com (Superman)

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Hockey Player Age Hometown Height Weight Team Position Coach School Grade Favorite Team Favorite Player

John Mears

Hockey Player Age Hometown Height Weight Team Position Coach School Grade Favorite Team Favorite Player

Luke VanBaalen

12 Roseville 5'2 102 MI Jaguars Defense Joe Zerilli Jefferson Middle School 7th Red Wings Pavel Datsyuk

10 Waterford 4'8" 66 lbs Lakeland Falcons Defense Craig Iverson Schoolcraft Elementary 4th Detroit Red Wings Nicklas Lidstrom

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COMPLETE AND UP-TO-DATE TOURNAMENT LISTINGS AT

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TOURNAMENT CALENDAR APRIL 2012 Hockey Time Productions Motown Cup Tournament Series Detroit, MI April 13-15, 2012 Mite-Midget House, B, A, AA High School Varsity and JV 216-325-0567 itshockeytime.com Ferris State University’s 3 on 3 Hockey Tournaments Big Rapids, MI April 13-15, 2012 Adult 18-30, 30&U & 40& Up Open; Adult 18-30, 30&U & 40&U B Women’s 18&U 231-591-2881 Oakland Edge Adult Hockey Tournament Rochester, MI April 20-22, 2012 Men’s A-D & 50+; Women’s Open age 21&U; Sled Division co-ed – age 15&U 248-721-1204 josse@oakgov.com oaklandedge.com Ferris State University’s 3 on 3 Hockey Tournaments Big Rapids, MI April 20-22, 2012 Squirt & Pee Wee House; Squirt A-AA, Pee Wee A-AA; Girls 10&U, 14&U, Girls High School and Midget AA-AAA 231-591-2881 Hockey Time Productions Motown Cup Tournament Series Detroit, MI April 27-29, 2012 Mite-Midget House, B, A, AA High School Varsity and JV 216-325-0567 itshockeytime.com Big Bear - The Thunderbird Detroit, MI April 27 – 29, 2012 Mite, Squirt, Peewee, Bantam, Midget, High School Varsity & J.V. B A - AA Visit us on line at shootouthockey.com 248-399-1694 Ferris State University’s 3 on 3 Hockey Tournaments Big Rapids, MI

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April 27-29, 2012 Mini-Mites (2005 & U); Mite & Bantam House; Bantam A-AA; High School Varsity; Midget AA-AAA; High School JV; Midget B-BB-A 231-591-2881 Big Bear - The Thunderbird Detroit, MI April 27 – 29, 2012 Mite U6 & Mite U8 cross ice 248-399-1694 Visit us on line at shootouthockey.com MAY 2012 7th Annual Oakland Junior Grizzlies Tournament of Champions Invitational Troy, MI May 3-6, 2012 Squirt A – Midget AA 248-388-1001 Email: aboncore@ oaklandjuniorgrizzlies.com Website: www. oaklandjuniorgrizzlies.com

OUT OF STATE APRIL 2012 Canadian Hockey Enterprises Gamblers Cup Las Vegas, Nevada April 12 - 15, 2012 Over 19, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45 divisions (also Women’s divisions) Canadian Hockey Enterprises...1-800-461-2161 www.chehockey.com email: goals@chehockey.com Canadian Hockey Enterprises Phoenix Cup Phoenix, Arizona April 12/13-15, 2012 Over 19, 25, 30, 35, 40, divisions Canadian Hockey Enterprises...1-800-461-2161 www.chehockey.com email: goals@chehockey.com Canadian Hockey Enterprises Niagara Cup Niagara Falls, Ontario April 13-15, 2012 Over 19, 25, 30, 35, 40 divisions Canadian Hockey Enterprises...1-800-461-2161 www.chehockey.com email: goals@chehockey.com Canadian Hockey Enterprises

Florida Cup Ft. Lauderdale, Florida April 15-22 or 18-22, 2012 Over 19, 25, 30, 35, 40 divisions Canadian Hockey Enterprises...1-800-461-2161 www.chehockey.com email: goals@chehockey.com Canadian Hockey Enterprises Gamblers Cup Las Vegas, Nevada April 19 - 22, 2012 Over 19, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45 divisions Canadian Hockey Enterprises...1-800-461-2161 www.chehockey.com email: goals@chehockey.com Stick it to Cancer Blaine, MN April 20-22, 2012 Girls’ and Women’s divisions Donated $70,000 to the U of Minn in 2011! Hockey Time Productions Rock ‘n Roll Cup Tournament Series Cleveland, OH April 13-15, 2012 Mite-Midget House, B, A, AA High School Varsity and JV 216-325-0567 www.itshockeytime.com Canadian Hockey Enterprises Gamblers Cup Las Vegas, Nevada April 19 - 22, 2012 Over 19, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45 divisions Canadian Hockey Enterprises...1-800-461-2161 www.chehockey.com email: goals@chehockey.com

CANADA APRIL 2012 Canadian Hockey Enterprises Banff Cup Banff, Alberta April 12/13 - 15, 2012 Over 19, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45 divisions Canadian Hockey Enterprises...1-800-461-2161 www.chehockey.com email: goals@chehockey.com Canadian Hockey Enterprises Montreal Adult & Old-timer Tournament Montreal, Quebec

April 13 – 15, 2012 Over 19, 25, 30, 35, 40 divisions Canadian Hockey Enterprises…1-800-461-2161 www.chehockey.com email: goals@chehockey.com Canadian Hockey Enterprises Okanagan Cup Kelowna, British Columbia April 13-15, 2012 Over 19, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50 divisions Canadian Hockey Enterprises...1-800-461-2161 www.chehockey.com email: goals@chehockey.com North American Holiday Hockey Montreal, Quebec, Canada April 13 – 15, 2012 Complexe Sportif Bell (Canadiens’ Practice Facility) Adult & Youth 1-800-322-NAHH www.nahhtours.com Email: NAHHTOURS@aol.com Canadian Hockey Enterprises Banff Cup Banff, Alberta April 19/20-22, 2012 Over 19, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45 divisions (also Women’s divisions) Canadian Hockey Enterprises...1-800-461-2161 www.chehockey.com email: goals@chehockey.com Canadian Hockey Enterprises Montreal Adult & Old-timer Tournament Montreal, Quebec April 20-22, 2012 Over 19, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45 divisions Canadian Hockey Enterprises…1-800-461-2161 www.chehockey.com email: goals@chehockey.com Canadian Hockey Enterprises Okanagan Cup Kelowna, British Columbia April 20-22, 2012 Over 19, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45 divisions Canadian Hockey Enterprises...1-800-461-2161 www.chehockey.com email: goals@chehockey.com Canadian Hockey Enterprises

MIHOCKEYNOW.COM

Niagara Cup Niagara Falls, Ontario April 20-22, 2012 Over 19, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45 divisions (also Women’s divisions) Canadian Hockey Enterprises...1-800-461-2161 www.chehockey.com email: goals@chehockey.com Weekend Hockey Tournaments Montreal, PQ April 20-22, 2012 19+, 25+, 30+, 35+, 40+, 45+, 50+ A, B, C, D, E Levels Mens/ Womens/ Co Ed 1-877-702-5701 905-827-3541 james@weekendhockey.com www.weekendhockey.com North American Holiday Hockey Toronto, Ontario April 20 – 22, 2012 Canlan Ice Sports Adult & Youth 1-800-322-NAHH www.nahhtours.com Email: NAHHTOURS@aol.com Canadian Hockey Enterprises Montreal Men’s & Women’s Tournament Montreal, Quebec April 27-29, 2012 Over 19, 25, 30, 35, 40 divisions (also Women’s Divisions) Canadian Hockey Enterprises...1-800-461-2161 www.chehockey.com email: goals@chehockey.com Canadian Hockey Enterprises Okanagan Cup Kelowna, British Columbia April 27 – 29, 2012 Over 19, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45 divisions (also Women’s divisions) Canadian Hockey Enterprises…1-800-461-2161 www.chehockey.com email: goals@chehockey.com Bluewater Sharks Spring Hockey Tournament Sarnia, ONT April 27-29, 2012 19 and over + Recreational ***New*** Men’s 19 and over + Recreational Girls 19U competitive

contact: Ed Marcy • (519) 3448624 • emarcy@sympatico. ca or Lance Marcy • (519) 344-2205 • lmarcy@cogeco.ca APPLICATIONS ON: www. bluewatersharkshockey.com OCTOBER 2012 Otsego County Sportsplex Gaylord, MI AAA Early Bird Tournament October 5 – 7, 2012 4 game guarantee Level: 2000 8 team limit Jim Driver 989-858-3400 Email: jim@premierjd.com Otsego County Sportsplex Gaylord, MI AAA Early Bird Tournament October 12 - 14, 2012 4 game guarantee Level: 1999 8 team limit Jim Driver 989-858-3400 Email: jim@premierjd.com Otsego County Sportsplex Gaylord, MI AAA Early Bird Tournament October 19 - 21, 2012 4 game guarantee Level: 1998 8 team limit Jim Driver 989-858-3400 Email: jim@premierjd.com

2012 SCHEDULE North American Holiday Hockey Adult & Youth 1-800-322-NAHH nahhtours.com NAHHTOURS@ aol.com Montreal, Quebec Complexe Sportif Bell (Canadiens’ Practice Facility) April 13 – 15, 2012 Toronto, Ontario Canlan Ice Sports April 20 – 22, 2012 Hartford, Connecticut International Skating Center of Connecticut April 27 – 29, 2012 Atlantic City, New Jersey Flyers’ Skate Zone (Flyers’ Facility) May 4 – 6, 2012

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JOIN THE PARTY!

2012 OHL PLAYOFFS

Be part of the most exciting hockey of the year! Visit plymouthwhalers.com for game schedule and more details!

March 23rd thru End of April

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Three Large Screens. New Movie Releases All Summer. 2-for-1 Double Features. Fun for all ages! O N!

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O CO M I N G S

YOUTH STATES

SQUIRT A

PEE WEE A

PORT HURON FLAGS

GROSSE ILE ISLANDERS

2012 MAHA STA

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SQUIRT AA

PEE WEE AAA MAJOR

TROY STING

COMPUWARE

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BANTAM B

BANTAM AAA MAJOR

IRON RANGE IRON KINGS

BELLE TIRE

ATE CHAMPIONS

BANTAM A

MIDGET B

GROSSE POINTE BULLDOGS

WESTLAND WARRIORS

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YOUTH STATES

MIDGET BB

MIDGET AAA MAJOR

REDFORD WOLFPACK

LITTLE CAESARS

2012 MAHA STA

20

MIDGET AAA MINOR

JV TIER II

HONEYBAKED

HOWELL

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JV TIER I

GIRLS 12U TIER II

SHAMROCK PREP

LIVONIA KNIGHTS

ATE CHAMPIONS

GIRLS 10U TIER II

GIRLS 14U TIER II

VICTORY HONDA

MICHIGAN ICEBREAKERS

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HIGH SCHOOL STATES

USA HOCKEY NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS Congratulations to the following teams for finishing second in the nation – the highest of any Michigan teams!

Boys –Tier B Ti II, II 16U (3A) – F Farmington i t Fire Fi

Gi Girls l – Ti Tier II, 12U - H Honeybaked b k d

Photos from Suburban Ice - East Lansing, the host of the 18U Tier II USA Hockey National Championship

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CHRIS CONNER 24

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NHL TOTALS

147 17 GAMES

GOALS

26

ASSISTS

43

POINTS

30 PIM

MICHIGAN TECH TOTALS

151 69 60 GAMES

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GOALS

ASSISTS

129 44

POINTS

PIM

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HIGH SCHOOL

USING HOCKEY TO BUILD HOPE BY MICHAEL CAPLES ORCHARD LAKE - Just two days after the conclusion of the high school hockey season, six seniors gathered in the banquet room overlooking Orchard Lake St. Mary’s ice arena. They are some of the most talented players the state has to offer. But this meeting wasn’t to discuss how they were all named to the All-State team. It was to talk about something that wouldn’t help them in their hockey careers – which are certain to continue – but to help others less fortunate. Led by Orchard Lake St. Mary’s captain Stephan Beauvais, the players – Mackenzie MacEachern, Nolan Gluchowski, Ethan Weiss, Jack Aliotta, and David Muth are assembling a three-on-three tournament on April 2829 to raise money for a local charity. The goal of the tournament, which will feature senior and underclassmen teams from high schools across the state, is to raise money for Angels of Hope, a charity that assists families with children battling cancer. Steve York, the Angels of Hope volunteer board member assisting the students, said he couldn’t believe what the group of high school hockey stars is doing, and that he hopes it sets an example for their peers. “I just think it’s amazing that a group of high school kids who are really at the top of their game, are taking the time out of their schedule to do something for kids who, quite honestly, will never get this opportunity,” York said. Beauvais came up with the idea for the tournament a few months ago, but he, like the other players, wasn’t able to fully invest in the idea until the conclusion of a demanding high school hockey season. Now, he’s off and running, with the help of his friends he met through his years of playing hockey in Michigan. Along with the six attendees at the meeting, he also has other friends helping out along the way, including Cranbrook captain Cameron Heath. “I was like, ‘there’s got to be a way where we can all get together, and give back to these kids [in need], Beauvais said. “I only know one thing, and it’s hockey. So I said, you know what, I can figure out a way to get all these people involved, and use hockey to help the Angels of Hope foundation.“ Convincing his friends to participate wasn’t a problem

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MiHockeyMag

at all. Like many other families, the players had the unfortunate experience of cancer in their own family, and wanted to help others with the fight. “Anytime there’s a cause I can help out with, I won’t hesitate when given the opportunity to do it,” said Cranbrook Kingswood’s Ethan Weiss. “We already had one of these with Brother Rice this year and we raised a lot of money for Gleaners [Food Bank] and now I want to do it again, and I like that feeling of helping people out. “About 11 years ago my mother died from cancer, so especially with Scuba finding me and asking me to help out, this time it really means something a lot. “I’m not going to hesitate to help anyone out with cancer, especially because it hit my family hard, but, you know, we’re going to raise a lot of money and hopefully we’ll do good.” This year’s Mr. Hockey - Brother Rice’s MacEachern – said that he hopes that this year’s group is laying a foundation for years to come. “It’s just a great fundraiser. I can’t wait to get it going,” MacEachern said. “I hope it keeps going and doesn’t stop. It’s awesome, like I said, and hopefully it keeps going. “My aunt died of breast cancer about two years ago, so I know what it’s like, and that’s why it really got me.” During their first meeting, York shared with the players some of the stories he has experienced from working with Angels of Hope. The volunteer board member of the charity said, however, that the act of players assembling the charitable tournament themselves is a first. I have two programs going on simultaneously, a Troy High School Colt lacrosse program and this,” York said. “But in six years of doing this, this is the first time we’ve had been approached by students who have said hey, we want to do this. So hopefully the tide’s turning, and it becomes something a little bit more mainstream to these students.” Aside from actually participating in the tournament, there are plenty of ways for people to get involved with the “Hockey For Hope” tournament. Volunteers are needed for referees, scorekeepers, 50/50 raffle ticket sellers, and volunteer services for the families Angels of Hope is helping. Businesses can also get involved by sponsoring periods or goals, or being included in announcements and signage. For more information, contact Beauvais at ScubaOLSM@gmail.com.

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U O Y ARE

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north american hockey league 2012

TRYOUT CAMPS

the league of opportunity

NORTH AMERICAN HOCKEY LEAGUE NAHL Keeps Churning out NCAA-Ready players BY MATT MACKINDER And the beat goes on as the North American Hockey League keeps announcing Division I college hockey commitments for its players. This go-round, it’s Wenatchee goalie Greg Lewis (Clarkson), Corpus Christi captain Frank Misuraca (Alabama-Huntsville) and Fairbanks goalie Alex Fons (Minnesota-Duluth) making plans for 2012-13. For Lewis, committing to a Division I school was a long time coming, but well worth the wait. “It’s definitely a weight off my shoulders,” Lewis said. “I’m looking forward to it and now, I’m just ready to concentrate on the end of the season and the playoffs.” He said his decision to commit to Clarkson was actually a pretty easy one to make. “It’s a good league that they play in (ECAC) and it’s a really nice school,” said Lewis. “It’s pretty close to my home and they have a really good coach (Casey Jones).” “We’re really happy for ‘Lewie,’” said Wild coach John Becanic. “For me, it really makes me feel good because ‘Lewie’ had other options of places to play (this season), but he chose to come back here. It’s nice that his loyalty has been rewarded with a scholarship with a really good hockey program.” Misuraca, a Detroit native, will be heading to the southernmost D-I school and one that was actually folding its program earlier this season, but had it resurrected in early December by the school’s administration. UAH is also the lone D-I independent school. “It feels great,” said Misuraca. “I mean, I’ve been working hard for a few years now trying to reach my goal of playing Division I and I have found a place to play that I am really excited about. I want to be a part of a building program that’s heading in the right direction and is full of opportunity, so I knew that it would be the right fit for me. “The resources here in Corpus really helped me move forward, the coaches pushed me to be the best player I can be and have helped me develop my game from Day 1. They have worked with me on the little things I need to do to succeed and move on in my career.” Fons said that committing to the 2011 national champion Bulldogs was a situation he never would have had the chance to experience had he not chosen to play in the NAHL. “You understand how to accept and handle responsibility as a player in the NAHL,” Fons said. “You understand right away that the goalie’s role in this league is a big one. You are playing against guys that know how to play the game, so you had better be on your game, not only for yourself, but for your teammates, the scouts that may be watching and the fans. “I think I am a better goalie now and will be better prepared for the NCAA because of my experience playing in the NAHL.” Pretty safe bet that all the NAHL’s college commitments this season will graduate from the league better players than when they started.

APRIL 9, 2012 V.22 : I.19

NAHL SIGNING NA3HL PLAYERS TO TENDERS 2011-2012 NAHL Tenders (NA3HL)

NAPHL CONTINUES PIPELINE TO NAHL 2011-2012 NAHL Tenders (NAPHL)

ABERDEEN WINGS Richard Jansson, F, Flint Jr. Generals AMARILLO BULLS Alex Carey, F, North Iowa Bulls

ABERDEEN WINGS Arthur Brey, G, Orange County Hockey Club (18U) Heinz Koster, F, Pittsburgh Viper Stars (18U)

AUSTIN BRUINS Zac Sikich, F, Granite City Lumberjacks

ALASKA AVALANCHE Thomas Kaddatz, F, Phoenix Firebirds (18U)

CORPUS CHRISTI ICERAYS Sean Keating, G, Pittsburgh Jr. Penguins COULEE REGION CHILL Matt Kroska, F, North Iowa Bulls FAIRBANKS ICE DOGS Alex Berardinelli, F, Pittsburgh Jr. Penguins JAMESTOWN IRONMEN Josh Beleski, F, Metro Jets KALAMAZOO JR. K-WINGS Will Shier, D, Metro Jets KENAI RIVER BROWN BEARS Trace Jablin, F, St. Louis Jr. Blues MINOT MINOTAUROS Ben Myers, G, Flint Jr. Generals NEW MEXICO MUSTANGS Adam Reid, D, Metro Jets PORT HURON FIGHTING FALCONS L.J. Dvorak, G, Cleveland Jr. Lumberjacks SOO EAGLES Noah Anderson, D, North Iowa Bulls ST. LOUIS BANDITS Johnny Mueller, D, St. Louis Jr. Blues Daniel Rosse, F, St. Louis Jr. Blues

KENAI RIVER BROWN BEARS Alec Butcher, F, Pikes Peak Miners (18U) Tyler Teague, F, Orange County Hockey Club (18U) MICHIGAN WARRIORS Connor Webb, G, Lansing Capitals (18U)

MINOT MINOTAUROS Justin Hermann, F, Phoenix Firebirds (18U) ALEXANDRIA BLIZZARD Brandon Anderson, F, California Titans (18U) Jake Pilewicz, D, Pittsburgh Viper Stars (18U) AMARILLO BULLS Jasen Fernsler, F, Lansing Capitals (18U) James LaDouce, D, Lansing Capitals (18U) AUSTIN BRUINS Jack Suter, F, Omaha AAA (16U)

NEW MEXICO MUSTANGS Trevor Cowieson, D, Indiana Jr. Ice (18U) Jeremiah Luedtke, F, Wenatchee Wild (18U)

PORT HURON FIGHTING FALCONS Austin Heakins, F, Pittsburgh Viper Stars CORPUS CHRISTI ICERAYS (18U) Andrew Doyon, F, Indiana Jr. Ice (16U) Trevor Heuser, D, New Jersey Jr. Titans (16U) Ryan Polin, D, Lansing Capitals (18U) SPRINGFIELD JR. BLUES Grant Hutton, D, Indiana Jr. Ice (16U) Dan Fitzgerald, D, St. Louis Selects (18U) Jalen Schulz, D, Omaha AAA (16U) COULEE REGION CHILL Kenny Hausinger, F, Las Vegas Storm (16U) Anthony Strzalkowski, D, Lansing Capitals (18U) FAIRBANKS ICE DOGS Matthew Armenti, D, New Jersey Jr. Titans (18U) Brett Gervais, F, Orange County Hockey Club (18U)Jacob Hetz, F, Pittsburgh Viper Stars (18U)

TOPEKA ROADRUNNERS Josh Kestner, F, Flint Jr. Generals

JAMESTOWN IRONMEN Elliot Tisdale, F, Pittsburgh Viper Stars (18U) Bob Tritschler, F, Pittsburgh Viper Stars (18U)

WICHITA FALLS WILDCATS David Fassbender, F, Cleveland Jr. Lumberjacks

JANESVILLE JETS Matthieu Audet, D, San Jose Jr. Sharks (18U) Kyle Halladay, D, Carolina Jr. Hurricanes (18U)

NAHL.COM MIHOCKEYNOW.COM

KALAMAZOO JR. K-WINGS Brennan Sanford, F, Lansing Capitals (18U) Kyle Ware, D, West Michigan Hounds (18U)

ST. LOUIS BANDITS Johan Sjoden, F, San Jose Jr. Sharks (18U) Ryan Webber, F, San Jose Jr. Sharks (18U) TEXAS TORNADO Jon Carkeek, D, Phoenix Firebirds (18U) Hector Majul, F, Phoenix Firebirds (18U) TOPEKA ROADRUNNERS Josh Haverstrom, F, Pikes Peak Miners (18U) Kirk Van Arkel, F, Pikes Peak Miners (18U) WENATCHEE WILD Brad LeLievre, F, Wenatchee Wild (18U) WICHITA FALLS WILDCATS Henry Hardarson, F, Phoenix Firebirds (18U) Colin Staub, F, Pikes Peak Miners (18U) Jake Townsend, D, Pikes Peak Miners (18U)

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33

MUSKEGON LUMBERJACKS

RON MASON GIVES LUMBERJACKS A ROAD MAP TO VICTORY BY MATT GAJTKA MUSKEGON, Mich. – Hockey players are drilled from the day they start playing that team objectives trump individual accomplishments, but that’s not entirely accurate. After all, the right combination of players performing to the best of their unique abilities is the recipe for consistent success in the win-loss column. Luckily for the Muskegon Lumberjacks, they have some time-tested guidelines to shoot for. In the team dressing room, there is a large magnetized sign that lays out 10 easy-to-grasp objectives – goals that promise to deliver effective play if met. The arrival of the board coincided with the Lumberjacks’ mid-January leadership change, but Head Coach Jim McKenzie is quick to point out that Senior Advisor Ron Mason is the man responsible for the road map to victory. “Most of our good ideas come from Ron,” said a smiling McKenzie of Mason, who coached collegiate men’s hockey for 36 years and accumulated the most wins ever at that level. “[The board] is based on what he had used in the past and he suggested it when we came in together. “The idea is to hold the players accountable to themselves and their teammates. We’re putting the onus on them to be more aware of how they’re playing and how that affects the team’s success.” Mason, for his part, notes that the 10 objectives the Lumberjacks see before and after every game were developed over the years and with plenty of help from various assistant coaches. “The objectives you see today emerged gradually,” said Mason, who coached the Michigan State Spartans for 23 years, guiding them to more than 600 victories and the 1986 national title. “We constantly tried to find ways to get the players to understand that there are certain keys to success, and if you meet those the team will accomplish their goals.” As far as specifics go, the list of goals runs the gamut from generating more scoring chances than the opponent, to winning the special teams battle and avoiding offside infractions. A few objectives beg for additional clarity, and McKenzie lends his thoughts on the following: • No unnecessary penalties: “The game is not won after the whistle. If you’re yapping at the ref or trying to get back at a guy after the play is over, you’re not thinking about winning the game. True toughness is what you

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do during the play, not after it.” • Finish plus or even in Photos courtesy of the Muskegon Lumberjacks the first and last minute of each period: “The first minute is all about being ready to play and being focused on having a good first shift. In the last minute the players should be concerned with finishing strong. It encourages the guys to communicate.” • Achieve 40-second shift times: “You only have so much energy to expend, but if you keep your shifts short, you can play harder and faster. Physical and mental mistakes come when a player is tired, Captions and just because you’ve for his first USHL season, and the Dartmouth recruit is a been defending the whole shift doesn’t mean you get believer in the system. to extend it to play with the puck.” “It’s proven to be very accurate, that if you meet the • No danger zone turnovers: “The danger zone is goals your team wins most of the time,” said Bullock, who just inside your own blue line and just outside the is fourth on the team with 27 points. “It gives players a opponent’s. When it doubt, get the puck out and get chance to simplify aspects of their games and be more the puck deep. Make the simple play, especially when effective.” you’re tired.” In McKenzie’s opinion, getting his players to direct • No offside calls: “One more area of discipline is staying their attention on something productive kept them from onside. It’s a bad habit that can send a poor message to falling into a common trap when an organization makes a your teammates. It’s about being aware when you’re on coaching change. the ice.” “A lot of times when a new coach comes in everyone tries Since McKenzie and Mason have been at the controls, the to impress him right way,” said the 15-year NHL veteran Lumberjacks’ goals against (3.92 per game before, 3.69 and 2003 Stanley Cup winner. “But these objectives are after) and goal differential (minus-33 before, minus-25 all team-oriented. Individual accolades often come from after) numbers have brightened. While additional team accomplishments, and this gets the players working improvement is still desired, Mason believes the team has toward a common goal. benefited from keeping the board’s principles in mind. “Peer pressure can be a very effective teaching tool.” “They were new to them at first and I think it took a Matt Gajtka is the Communications Director and bit for them to get used to,” he said. “But I think they’ve Broadcaster for the Muskegon Lumberjacks of the bought into them and their play shows that.” United States Hockey League (USHL). Reach him at Lumberjacks defenseman Ryan Bullock had experience mgajtka@muskegonlumberjacks.com. with team objectives of this kind prior to joining Muskegon

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PLYMOUTH WHALERS

WHALERS’ Wedgewood, Levi get closer to BY MATT MACKINDER

S

NHL DREAMS

igning an NHL contract doesn’t necessarily mean a player will play in the league, but it’s certainly the start to the realization of a lifelong dream. For Plymouth Whalers’ goaltender Scott Wedgewood and defenseman Austin Levi, inking on the dotted line recently gives proof to the old adage that hard work does indeed pay off. Drafted with consecutive picks in the third round of the 2010 NHL draft by New Jersey and Carolina, respectively, Wedgewood (84th overall) and Levi (85th overall) contributed in significant ways to the Whalers this year and their NHL clubs obviously took notice. “Austin has excellent size and has really come into his own as a defensive defenseman in the OHL with Plymouth,” said Carolina director of hockey operations Ron Francis. “He is ready to begin his professional career with the Hurricanes organization next season.” Wedgewood is realistic when it comes to the prospect of him playing in the NHL. “Goalies take a lot longer (to develop) than players; I’ve come to realize that,” Wedgewood told NHL.com. “I’m not going to be in there in a year or two. It’s just a waiting game for goalies. It takes longer for us to evolve. It’s up to (New Jersey GM) Lou (Lamoriello) and the coaching staff. All I can do is show them my game, show them what I can do. If they want to give me the opportunity, I won’t hesitate to take it.” Both players’ Facebook pages were showered with congratulatory messages when news of their NHL

contracts was made public, and rightfully so. With Wedgewood and Levi both being 1992 birthdates and now having signed NHL deals, this season is pretty much assured to be their last at Compuware Arena.

WHALERS, SPIRIT RECOGNIZED BY COACHES Each year, the OHL conducts a coaches’ poll for each coach to vote for players in certain categories i.e. hardest shot, best checker, etc. Each team submits one nominee per category and coaches then vote for the top three players for each category within their conference and are not permitted to vote for players on their own team. Several Whalers and Saginaw Spirit players made the list for this season in the Western Conference poll. MOST UNDERRATED PLAYER 1. Garret Ross, Saginaw 3. Beau Schmitz, Plymouth HARDEST WORKER 3. Tom Wilson, Plymouth BEST PLAYMAKER 1. Vincent Trocheck, Saginaw MOST DANGEROUS IN THE GOAL AREA 3. Josh Shalla, Saginaw – finished third in voting in 2010-11 BEST SKATER 2. Alex Aleardi, Plymouth

BEST STICKHANDLER 3. Vincent Trocheck, Saginaw BEST ON FACEOFFS 1. Mitchell Heard, Plymouth – finished tied for third in voting in ‘10-11 BEST BODY CHECKER 1. Tom Wilson, Plymouth BEST SHOT BLOCKER 1. Jamie Devane, Plymouth BEST DEFENSIVE FORWARD 1. Rickard Rakell, Plymouth BEST OFFENSIVDEFENSEMAN 3. Beau Schmitz, Plymouth BEST DEFENSIVE DEFENSEMAN 2. Beau Schmitz, Plymouth BEST SHOOTOUT SHOOTER 1. Vincent Trocheck, Saginaw 3. Stefan Noesen, Plymouth BEST SHOOTOUT GOALIE 3. Matt Mahalak, Plymouth OHL NEWS & NOTES The annual OHL Priority Selection is this Saturday (April 7) at 9 a.m. at www.ontariohockeyleague.com. Erie has the first overall pick and will take Connor McDavid, a 1997born forward from Toronto who was granted “exceptional status” by Hockey Canada, allowing him to be drafted one year early. The majority of players taken Saturday will be 1996 birthdates … Peterborough forward Andrew Yogan signed with the New York Rangers late last month. Yogan became the first player born and raised in Florida to be drafted by an NHL team when the Rangers selected him in the fourth round (100th overall) of the 2010 NHL draft. This season, Yogan tallied 41 goals and 78 points with the Petes.

BEST SHOT 2. Josh Shalla, Saginaw HARDEST SHOT 2. Josh Shalla, Saginaw

Photos courtesy of OHL Images Left: Goaltender Scott Wedgewood. Right: Defenseman Austin Levi

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SAGINAW SPIRIT

TOUGH LIFE DECISIONS PAY OFF FOR

Life decision No. 3 came just minutes before the trade deadline expired, when Spitfires vice president and general manager Warren Rychel asked Webermin if he would approve a trade to Saginaw. “Rychel called me at 11:40 a.m., on the day of the deadline and I had exactly 20 minutes to decide,” Webermin said. “I called my parents and my agent, but in the end it came down to my decision, as to what was best for me as I move forward towards a pro career.” Webermin was unaware of any potential trades before he received the phone call. “I was completely shocked when Rychel called me,” said Webermin, who will be eligible for the 2012 NHL Draft in June. “I thought I would be part of the 1994 birth-year class with the Spitfires, looking to make a run for the 2014 Memorial Cup.” However, the trade has benefitted the Novi native. Since joining the Spirit, Webermin has seen his ice time increase and the trade has given him a fresh start. Spirit GM Jim Paliafito feels the young defenseman will be a good fit with the team. “His upside made perfect sense to us,” said Paliafito following the trade. “He adds another young talent on our back-end that will help us as we move forward.” At 6-foot-1-inch and 175 pounds, Webermin likes to excel at both ends of the ice. “I try to be a complete D-man using both my skating and puck skills to move the puck up quickly to the rushing forwards,” Webermin said. “I like to play hard in front of the net and in the corners, taking care of my own end.”

GRANT WEBERMIN

BY CARL CHIMENTI

C

areer altering decisions can be tough. In the case of a teenager it can be excruciating. Saginaw Spirit defenseman Grant Webermin, who was recently acquired at the OHL trade deadline from the Windsor Spitfires, faced three tough choices that could make or break his aspirations in becoming a professional hockey player. The well-spoken and mature youngster, who just turned 18 in February, had the support of his parents as he came to grips with the choices that he needed to make over the last two years. The first tough call came at the age of 16, when Webermin decided to attend Novi Catholic Central, arguably the best prep hockey program in the state. At the time, the Novi resident was a long-time product with the Honeybaked hockey program and head coach Ted Gardiner. The defenseman decided to stay to continue with Honeybaked instead of earning his varsity letter. “Playing for Honeybaked is probably the most memorable hockey experience that I have ever had,” Webermin said. “To this day I maintain a strong friendship with the guys and their families, which is very important to me.” Webermin says he owes a lot of his success to Gardiner and the Honeybaked organization. “I was with Ted for about eight years, six of them with Honeybaked,” Webermin said. “I learned so much from

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him, and certainly I owe a lot to him for all his help and guidance…I still stay in contact with him as much as I can.” And while he never dressed for the Shamrocks hockey team, he appreciates the education he received at Catholic Central. “I received an excellent education and I learned a lot about myself spiritually,” Webermin said. “From a hockey career standpoint, staying with Honeybaked was the best thing for me.” Webermin’s next life-changing decision came during the summer of 2012 and the OHL Priority Draft. The Windsor Spitfires drafted Webermin in the first round, 20th overall, forcing him to choose between his college eligibility and the OHL. “After I was drafted I really struggled with this decision for a long time,” Webermin said. “I had it narrowed down to the University of Michigan, a team that I grew up watching, or the Spitfires. The biggest deciding factor in choosing the OHL route was the two-year gap. Also, I thought going directly to the OHL and the Windsor Spitfires, which was close to home, was a good opportunity and the right way to go.” Webermin spent a year and a half with the Spitfires, but due to a concussion and a slight ankle tear, he appeared in only 87 games, scoring a total of three goals and ten points.

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Photos courtesy OHL Images

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JUNIORS PREVIEW COLLEGE HOCKEY

Win or lose at the Frozen Four…

HATS OFF TO FERRIS STATE We, like most media members, didn’t see this coming. Ferris State has had one terrific season. And as they embark on their first appearance in the Frozen Four, we wish them the best of luck. The lone Michigan team to advance past the first weekend of the NCAA Tournament, the Bulldogs carry the torch for both Michigan, and for schools everywhere that don’t get recognized by some of their more-populated neighbors when they invade Tampa Bay this weekend.

“A lot of team sports rely upon a complete team, but hockey, I think as much as any sport, affords schools of any size [the chance] to be successful. The fact that you have 21 players dressed, and pretty much all players see playing time, allows for teams that may don’t necessarily have the name players so to speak, but they have the depth and a real team spirit, can forge ahead and move on. I like the makeup of this Frozen Four, I think over the years if you’ve watched college hockey closely, you’ve seen a lot of different institutions represented. Look no further than last year with Minnesota-Duluth, a great hockey tradition but that’s a Division 2 school as well that went on to win the national title. Hockey is definitely a unique animal when it comes to opportunities for all to be successful.” – Ferris State coach Bob Daniels

“It can be tough to play hockey and balance your academics, but in the end you are rewarded with a college degree and you get to pursue your hockey career.”

JUSTIN ABDELKADER Michigan State University

EARLY DEPARTURES FROM MICHIGAN SCHOOLS: Michigan State captain Torey Krug has signed with the Boston Bruins. “This obviously came quickly after our season ended, but it was a really difficult decision to make,” said the junior defenseman. “I love everything about Michigan State, my teammates, and our hockey program, and it was an outstanding place for me to grow and develop both as a hockey player and a person.”

Michigan junior forward Chris Brown has signed with the Phoenix Coyotes. “I want to thank the Michigan coaching staff, my teammates and all the fans who have made my three years in Ann Arbor an experience that I will cherish

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forever,” Brown said. “This was a very difficult decision for me to make, but at the same time I am excited about this opportunity.”

Western Michigan junior defenseman Matt Tennyson has signed with the San Jose Sharks. “I’m very excited to start my pro career with the San Jose Sharks,” said Tennyson, a San Jose area native. “It is something I have dreamed about for a long time. I would like to thank all the coaches, players and staff that have helped me over my three years at Western Michigan. It is been the best time of my life and I will never forget it.”

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W

hen the Grand Rapids Griffins announced their Clear Day roster in early March, Riley Sheahan’s name was not on it. Similar to the NHL’s trade deadline, the Clear Day roster is essentially a playoff roster, a list of 22 names eligible to compete in the rest of the regular season and playoffs. Among other things, it’s designed to prevent a non-playoff NHL team from loading their AHL affiliate’s roster up with waiver-exempt young players for a Calder Cup run. Exceptions are made for the inevitable injuries and NHL call-ups or, in Sheahan’s case, try-out contracts for young players following the conclusion of their collegiate or junior season. Sheahan was a junior with the University of Notre Dame this season, and he elected to turn pro at the conclusion instead of staying with the Fighting Irish for his senior year. “I tried not to think about it during the year,” said Sheahan. “I was just trying to focus on the team I was playing for at the time. Obviously, every kid wants to play pro hockey at some point in their life. I started thinking about it more when the season was ending, and I decided to turn pro about a week after it ended.” A native of St. Catharines, Ontario, Sheahan is a proud collegiate player, having made the choice to play at Notre Dame instead of Erie, who held his OHL rights. While it’s not uncommon for Canadians to play college hockey (Brendan Smith is another example), he was confident about his decision all along. “I had a cousin that went to Notre Dame, and both of my parents are (high school) teachers, so education’s always been important,” said Sheahan. “The whole package of mixing education with hockey and being part of the school atmosphere was pretty fun.” In Sheahan’s fifth game with the Griffins, he notched his first two professional points – a goal and an assist. After

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his first two weeks, the 22-year-old center says everything is close to what he expected. “It’s a totally different game than college,” he said. “Guys are in position most of the time, so it’s a little more controlled in that sense. The speed is faster, guys are bigger and stronger, but for the most part it’s what I was expecting.” Griffins head coach Curt Fraser offered his assessment, indicating that Sheahan has been impressive as promised so far. “He’s got good size, good skater, really high-end skills,” said Fraser. “Like most of these kids, they’re very good players coming out of college or junior, and now they just have to get a feel for this league. Everyone wants to play in the NHL, but you have to take small steps to get there.” Walking into a new locker room a month before the end of the season and adjusting to a new system is no easy task, but Sheahan has had the advantage of knowing a few familiar faces from his time at the Red Wings’ summer prospect camps. “Knowing a few faces coming in was definitely helpful,” Sheahan said. “There are no egos on the team, guys have been treating me really well. I’m really glad they’ve been respectful and good to me so far. The coaches have been great, too. I’ve been lucky to get a shot on the power play and a little on the penalty kill. Everything’s coming into place.” “You get to know these kids in the summer and in Traverse City,” Fraser said. “They come in prepared and ready to step in. It sure makes a difference out on the ice, when they’ve had a chance to prepare through our camps. It’s not the same with everyone, but Riley’s been around a little bit, and it’s great to see him here.” Sheahan played the first few months of his freshman season with Notre Dame at the age of 17, meaning he was one of the youngest players in the NCAA for his first two seasons with the Fighting Irish. “It was a challenge at first, adjusting to the whole lifestyle, just getting to things on time and planning out a

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day properly,” said Sheahan. “Hockey-wise, it was a little different at first, but I adjusted pretty well.” While at Notre Dame, Sheahan, who was known as an offensive player before heading to college, worked on his all-around game, becoming a shutdown center for the team as he matured as a player. “Notre Dame was pretty defensive, and I took on the role of playing against the other team’s top line,” said Sheahan. “I’m glad they’re giving me the chance to be a little more offensive [here], and hopefully things will fit into place.” With only a handful of games left in the regular season, Sheahan is proving to be an important part in the team’s effort to make up ground in the playoff run. Beyond that, he is expected to sign his entry-level contract with Detroit, the team that drafted him 21st overall in the 2010 NHL Entry Draft, sometime soon as he prepares for his first full professional season next fall. “The first team I ever played for was the Red Wings, so it’s kind of ironic that it worked out like that,” said Sheahan of being selected by Detroit. “I was a Leafs fan growing up, but the Wings were always a close second. Guys like Steve Yzerman and Brendan Shanahan were two of my favorite players.” Chris Chelios and Chris Osgood were both present at one of Sheahan’s first home practices with the Red Wings, which the young forward admits takes some time getting used to. “You get a little star struck at first, but then you realize they’re just here to help,” said Sheahan. “They have tons of experience, and they’re some of the best players to ever play the game. I just try to take in what they say and use them whenever I need help. Obviously, they give pretty good advice.”

APRIL 9, 2012 V.22 : I.19

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41

NHL PREVIEW

Special DElivery – Goaltending by numbers BY DARREN ELIOT

MIHOCKEY’S ALL-MICHIGAN TEAM

Injuries play a role in the regular season and how teams deal with player loss goes a long way in determining playoff existence through post-season positioning. Once in the playoffs, injuries can swing a series one way or another. For instance, teams always covet depth on the blue line, especially during the spring derby. Losing a star player can cripple an otherwise healthy Stanley Cup pursuit. What about losing your number netminder? Who can best survive such an unfortunate occurrence should it arise in 2012? The St. Louis Blues come to mind as best suited this year because they have effectively split time with Brian Elliott and Jaroslav Halak all season with spectacular results. They have proven to be equally effective, so if one was to come down with any type of malady, the look, feel and confidence of the Blues wouldn’t change at all. The tandem backstops the strongest defensive game in the league. They are interchangeable as part of the Blue’s overall team scheme. They focus on first shots and have confidence down low to square up on the strong side, knowing that their teammates protect the weak side vigilantly. That’s how you post more shutouts than the 1968-69 tandem of legends Glenn Hall and Jacques Plante. Contrast the Blues’ situation with that of just their Central Division rivals and it becomes apparent that, while only one goalie can play, it’s nice to know that two are capable of delivering at the same high level. With Pekka Rinne and his league leading forty-one wins tending goal, the Nashville Predators can contend for the Cup. Not so much if forced to turn to Anders Lindback and his 3-8 regular season record in spot duty. Same for the Detroit Red Wings. Look at the struggles of the mighty Wings since Jimmy Howard vacated the crease just after the All-Star break. Sure, they have battled other injuries, but without Howard’s consistent excellence, the Red Wings have struggled to find their collective game, no matter who is suiting up.

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That’s what makes the “Ell-ak” combination so intriguing. You just don’t see a true division of work very often anymore, where neither goaltender plays as many as fiftygames, but neither has fewer than 30 starts, either. The Blues with Halak (44 starts) and Elliott (34 starts) are the only playoff bound team this year with such a make-up. Most teams have a definitive number one like the Preds and Wings. There are, however, slight variations in the make-up of the tandems around the league. For instance, you have a veteran in Marty Biron comfortably filling the role behind workhorse Henrik Lundqvist, while emerging starter Cory Schneider continues to push number one Roberto Luongo for more time with his fine play. Meanwhile, Marty Brodeur and Johan Hedberg form a sage and seasoned tandem in New Jersey. Both have played exceedingly well, with Hedberg’s numbers slightly better and Brodeur returning to majority game-playing status — and the playoffs — after enduring an injury plagued season a year ago. Riding your top guy all the way worked last year in Boston with Tim Thomas and with Marc-Andre Fleury in 2009 for the Pittsburgh Penguins. It was also the case in 2007 when J.S. Giguere and the Anaheim Ducks prevailed. Coming out of the lockout, Cam Ward had his coming out party in leading the Carolina Hurricanes to the Stanley Cup — even though Cristobal Huet got the nod to start the playoffs over rookie Ward. He jumped into the first round series and eventually won the Conn Smythe Trophy. In 2008, Chris Osgood similarly began the playoffs on the bench backing up Dominik Hasek. The difference is that both Hasek and Osgood were veterans. Coach Mike Babcock was just looking for anyone to get hot. Osgood did, winning his third Cup in the process. If you don’t have a definite number one – like the 2006 ‘Canes and the ’08 Wings – coaches are more apt to switch goaltenders within a series, searching for that “right moment” when a guy gets in groove and generates momentum. That’s what the Chicago Blackhawks did in 2010, splitting the regular season in Blues-like fashion

FORWARD – DAVID LEGWAND Legwand has led all Michigan-born forwards in scoring with 52 points through April 3, notching 18 goals and 34 assists. The Detroit native and former member of the Plymouth Whalers continues to be a franchise cornerstone for the Predators. FORWARD – RYAN KESLER Kesler ranks second in scoring for Michigan-born forwards with 48 points, earning 22 goals and 26 assists for the Vancouver Canucks. The centerman from Livonia maintained a +13 in the plus-minus column through 74 games. FORWARD – CHAD LAROSE LaRose has totaled 31 points on the season, burying 18 goals and adding 13 helpers. The Fraser native and former Plymouth Whalers standout appears to be a budding star for the Carolina Hurricanes. DEFENSE – JEFF PETRY Tying fellow Michigan native James Wisniewski atop the scoring list for Michigan-born defensemen, Petry has tallied 24 points – 2

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between Antti Niemi and Cristobal Huet. Niemi took over down the stretch and played all but twenty minutes of the playoffs. The Blackhawks under Coach Joel Quenneville are following the same formula with the tandem of Corey Crawford and Ray Emery. Crawford had a nice showing a year ago in the Blackhawks’ Conference Quarter Final series against the Vancouver Canucks, pushing them to seven games after trailing 3-0. Emery went to the Final in ’07 with the Ottawa Senators and has resurrected his career. Yet, neither goalie put any real long runs together during the season. Not until Crawford seized control of the goal in midFebruary. That needed to happen for the Blackhawks to get themselves into the playoff mix and now ready for the annual spring marathon. Prior to Crawford’s late season turnaround, though, goaltending remained a question mark for the Blackhawks. And while the Blues’ goaltending has been anything but questionable, someone needs to stay solid. Halak had a memorable playoff performance in 2010 when he backstopped the Montreal Canadiens to a surprising trip to the Eastern Conference Final. That resume note, along with playing slightly more than Elliott, probably gets Halak the nod to begin the post-season. I’ll be shocked, though, if Elliott doesn’t get in at some point. If he doesn’t, it means the Blues will be well on their way to a lengthy playoff run. And that’s all any team is looking for, no matter who gets the start in goal.

Special DElivery is MiHockeyNow.com’s new blog, starring Darren Eliot. The famed TV analyst and Sports Illustrated columnist will discuss all things hockey in this exclusive blog for MiHockey.

goals and 22 assists. The youngster laced up for Orchard Lake St. Mary’s before becoming a star on the Michigan State blue line. DEFENSE – JAMES WISNIEWSKI The Canton native has become a journeyman the past few seasons, seeing time with the Ducks, Islanders and Canadiens before settling in with the Blue Jackets this season. He has posted five goals and 19 assists for a total of 24 points. GOALTENDER – RYAN MILLER In what was the most difficult decision on this list, we went with Ryan Miller over Tim Thomas for what he has done to keep his team in playoff contention. Despite struggling early in the season, Miller went on a hot streak just when the Sabres needed it. The former Michigan State Spartan and East Lansing native posted a 11-3-2 record in March alone, keeping a struggling Buffalo squad in the hunt for the Eastern Conference playoffs. HONORABLE MENTIONS – TIM THOMAS, DAVID BOOTH, DREW MILLER, ERIK CONDRA, COREY POTTER, TIM GLEASON

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JUNIORS PREVIEW RED WINGS INSIDER

ABDELKADER AND MILLER: HOW THE RED WINGS HAVE BENEFITTED FROM THEIR MICHIGAN PRESENCE BY DAVE WADDELL

T

he popular parlance is to call players like Drew Miller and Justin Abdelkader ‘plumbers.’ They’re the hard-working, blue-collar types that fix holes in your line-up. Detroit GM Ken Holland has another word he feels better describes the value of the two Michigan natives on the Red Wings roster. Glue. “They’re guys, when you put a team together, they’re glue players,” Holland said. “They finish out your team. “You can’t have 12 play-making centermen or 12 shooters. You need lots of ingredients. “They bring a different dimension to our team.” The two Spartans couldn’t have arrived in more different ways in Detroit. Abdelkader was a second-round draft pick in 2005 and had scored the NCAA-championship winning goal for MSU in 2007. He had some offensive upside to go with solid body frame that might allow him to nip out the edges of being a second-line forward. Miller, who played his senior season with Abdelkader in East Lansing, was a defensive specialist. He was a CCHA Defensive Player of the Year with a lanky body and ability to skate that made him a nuisance. However, Miller was traded by Anaheim after a couple seasons to Tampa and then placed on the waiver wire after only playing 14 games for the Lightning in the fall of 2010. Detroit claimed him in November of 2010 to help them deal with a rash of injuries, but Miller proved better than just a stand-in. “Ryan Martin, my assistant manager, was aware of him from college,” Holland said. “We knew him from Michigan State. “He’s a Miller. The Millers have been a very good hockey family, so you go a little bit on bloodlines. He was the CCHA Defensive Player of the Year. “There wasn’t a lot of risk claiming him and we were looking for players. “We liked him, but we didn’t think he’d be scoring 10 to 15 goals every season.

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“His offensive game is a little bit late blooming. His calling card was defensive hockey. “We took a flyer on him.” After the Wings claimed him he scored 10 goals in Detroit that season. He added another 10 last year before establishing career-highs in points (25) and goals (14) through 77 games this season. “It’s just getting confidence and experience,” Miller said noting he and Abdelkaer had both played fewer than 300 NHL games. “The more we play, the more confidence we’re getting with playing at this level and playing more minutes. It’s hand in hand, the more you play the more confident you get.” In Miller’s case, the confidence is obvious. He’s doing things with the puck, being patient and shooting more, that you rarely saw in his first season in Detroit. “Last year, at times, he was a healthy scratch,” Holland said. “This year, he’s in the line-up every night. “I like him because he’s rangy and he can skate. He’s really good defensively. He kills penalties. “When you score 14 or 15 goals on the third and fourth line, that’s a lot of goals in a league where, if you don’t get specialty team time, it’s hard to score 20 goals. “He’s just gotten more confidence.” Miller and Abdelkader have been frequently paired together with Darren Helm or Dan Cleary this season. They’ve formed an effective third unit with either teammate. “We’ve kind of been counted on the past few years to create the energy and be hard on the other team’s defense and I think we’ve just taken that to the next level and getting a little more offensive,” Miller said. “I think we’re finding that chemistry to play a little more offensively and the puck’s going in, so it’s good for the team. You need that secondary scoring.” While Miller’s speed is his calling card, Abdelkader announces his presence in a more noisy fashion. He’s consistently Detroit’s top producer when it comes to dishing out the hits. He’s even got the flippers off to get involved in a careerhigh six fights.

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“I think that’s what we want to be known as, more like a lunch pail type line, blue-collar, hard work,” said Abdelkader, who has eight goals and 22 points in 78 games. “There’s probably not going to be a lot of fanciness going on, toe-dragging all that stuff. It’s just grind and hard work.” It’s work that hasn’t gone unnoticed by the Red Wings’ brass. “He’s had a good year,” Holland said. “He’s 25 and just coming into his prime. “You look at Val Filppula, who is now 27, and people wonder why he’s taken a jump this year? It’s a tough league. “Abby is an important guy to our team because he gives us a different dimension. “He’s got some finesse. He kills penalties. He’s physical, in on the forecheck. He can fight if he has too. “He’s an important player for us.” In Holland’s estimation, Abdelkader isn’t likely to become a big-time scorer in five years, but that doesn’t make him any less important than the team’s snipers. “Maltby, Draper and McCarty were an important ingredient to our team in the late ‘90s and 2000s,” Holland said. “They were a completely different ingredient than Fedorov and Yzerman were. “Abby is the same. He’s different than Zetterburg and Datsyuk. “He plays a grinding game. In a playoff series, some nights you need skill and some nights you need grinding. “He’s more experienced, comfortable and confident.” Holland said he envisions Abdelkader’s most effective role being on the third line. “On a good team, he’s a real good support player,” Holland said. “The more ingredients you can bring as a player, the more opportunities. I would compare him to the Maltbys, the McCartys, Drapers, and Lapointes. “He’s not a star, but he’s a real important guy because you’re putting together a team and he brings some real important ingredients.”

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JUNIORS THE LAST PREVIEW LINE When you are going through the playing experience, you seldom realize that your team might be the best one you ever play on – no matter how long you stay in the game competitively. That was the case with my Minor Bantam team growing up in Oshawa, Ontario. We won all five tournaments that we entered and ended up losing in the semifinal of the All-Ontario play-downs. This time of year always reminds me of that team. We witness a flurry of top notch amateur hockey here in Michigan in March with state championships and those teams that moved on to compete nationally over the past several weeks. There was the CCHA Championship at the Joe and the first round of the OHL playoffs, too. But it was the younger kids that caught my attention around the rinks lately as it brought back memories of my team when I was 13. I’m sure it resonated more for me this year since my son Mitch played for the ’98 Honeybaked AAA team that won the first-ever High Performance Hockey League playoff title and won the Minor Bantam state championship as well. Believe me, part of my interest is sentimental, but that’s not the only reason I was so enthralled this spring. It has to do with seeing the burning desire to compete and succeed as a team, or should I say win. Success is a longer view, but for these kids at this time of year – in the moment -- winning is the focus. Maybe it is that moment, still relatively new to all the players vying for a title, that I enjoyed watching unfold, that I so relished. That’s the essence of competitive sport. Seeing it in the eyes and in the effort of the youngsters is uplifting, bringing one back to where you can almost feel the exhilaration of giving your all and… Of course the pictures in this issue (and over our last couple of editions) are of the winning sides, not those that fell in defeat. That’s the other side of competition – the emotion of trying your hardest and not ending with a celebration. While one team exults the result, the other stands with shoulders slumped, heads down, crestfallen. Hockey teaches the hard lesson best of all. After all the effort, energy and togetherness, the final scoreboard reading in your favor isn’t a given. That empty feeling stays with you as an athlete every bit as much as the thrill and satisfaction of victory. I know this. As I took in so many riveting youth hockey games, witnessing the winning/ losing scene repeated again and again, I remember both the elation of winning and the deflation of losing and it is the latter emotion that I so vividly recollect about that very strong Minor Bantam team I was part of all those years ago. I remember our star player, Grove Sutton, scoring on a breakaway in the second period to give us a 1-0 lead. That held up until our big defenseman Rob Garro got beat wide, hustled, dove and tripped up the Burlington player, putting him at center ice for a penalty shot, with about a minute to play. It wasn’t my time to be the hero, as the score moved to 1-1, with me failing to stop the deke. On the ensuing face off, Cam [sic] Wheeler

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MEMORIES THAT LAST FOREVER, NO MATTER THE FINAL SCORE BY DARREN ELIOT took the puck off the draw, weaved his way through our stunned team, whipped a shot that my best friend on the team, Randy Little, tried to block but just nicked with his stick, sending the puck knuckling past me and into the net for a numbing 2-1 lead. The final seconds were fleeting. There was a hum in my head and a buzzing in my ears as I stood beside my teammates in silent disbelief as we watched the joyous celebration unfold on our home ice. We had been minutes from going to the finals, but instead lost improbably in the fifth game of a best-of-five series. I never forgot the details or despair. Maybe because I

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@Darren_Eliot had played in Burlington the prior season before moving to Oshawa that year, making the whole teenage drama more personal; maybe because the memories renew with annual rite of springtime championship hockey. That was the best youth team I ever played on and of course I didn’t realize it at the time. But I sure recognized the feeling. It stays with you and makes you appreciate moments of triumph all the more. So, here’s to another great season to all the players who gave it their all, had some fun and made some memories of their own – win or lose.

APRIL 9, 2012 V.22 : I.19

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